Have you ever been reading something and suddenly found yourself lost in pronouns, asking to which “he” is the writer referring? Pronouns used incorrectly become pesky pronouns to editors. (At least to this editor they do.) The editor is forced to read several more sentences (or paragraphs) to figure out the “he” or “she” to…
Back in December I took Michael Hyatt’s new Best Year Ever course. I then set 10 goals and was very excited about 2014 and the plans I’d made for the year. Almost immediately after—within a week—my mood plummeted. I spent a week or two wallowing, then began to examine why I felt depressed. Dr. Stephen…
Writers often hear “show us, don’t tell us” in one variation or another. But what does it really mean to show rather than tell? Merriam-Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary gives the definition of tell as “to relate in detail: narrate, recount,” and show as “to cause or permit to be seen.” As writers, we do both these things. But as storytellers…
No, these activities are not the same thing. According to Merriam-Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, Market means “to expose for sale in a market” (verb). Platform means “a raised flooring (such as a stage or dais) in a building on which speakers, theatrical performers, or other person show themselves to an audience” (noun) In his book Platform, Get Noticed in…
Today is launch day for Finding Beth, so I’m doubly excited about my Friday Feature interview with debut author Linnette R. Mullin because we get to share in her excitement. Linnette has graciously offered my readers an opportunity to win a free copy of Finding Beth. Keep reading for contest details. I bet you can…
Do you cringe at the mention of marketing? Many writers do. Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines the verb market as “to expose for sale in a market.” As a beginning writer (to whom I chiefly speak), my question to you is “What have you got to sell?”
I’ve been reading a wonderful book written by Lynn Austin titled Hidden Places. More than once as I’ve read the gentle, lilting prose of this story I’ve said to myself “I wish I could write like this.” I bet you’ve found yourself saying the same thing as you’ve read books that gripped you with the…
It’s the third Friday of the month, time for our debut author interview. Today, I’m visiting with Peggy Cunningham, author of the children’s book series Really Rare Rabbits. Book 1, Giant Ghost Rabbits Guarding the Inca Treasure Fires released in February. Peggy has been burning up the keyboard this year. Since scheduling my interview with her,…