Author: Tessa Emily Hall - Becoming an Author

Tessa Emily Hall writes inspirational yet authentic YA fiction to show others they’re not alone—and because she remembers the teen life like it was yesterday (or a few years ago). The debut novel she wrote at 16-years-old, PURPLE MOON (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) was a Selah 2014 Finalist. Her second YA novel, UNWRITTEN MELODY, released with Clean Reads November 2016. She’s the Founder of PursueMagazine.net, a magazine that inspires teens to embrace their calling. Tessa also enjoys helping writers achieve their dreams through her role as a Jr. Agent at Hartline Literary Agency.

When her fingers aren’t flying 116 WPM across the keyboard, Tessa can be found making healthy homemade lattes, speaking to teens, decorating her insulin pump, and acting in Christian films. She writes in a small town nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Southeastern coast. Her favorite way to procrastinate is by connecting with readers on her blog, mailing list, social media (@tessaemilyhall), and website: www.tessaemilyhall.com.

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

The Writer’s Palette: How to Write Concise Description to Liven Your Scenes

As writers, we have the power to tear down the boundaries of paper and ink when we craft a description that triggers the imagination of our readers. That’s the power of writing a concise description.

I’m sure you’ve heard it’s best to limit your descriptions. Pretty prose does not equal a pretty story, and ultimately it’s your characters and plot that will push the story along.

So how can you write scenes in a way that accomplishes the job of description — to bring the story to life — without interrupting the flow?

Writing this kind of description is much harder than writing flowery prose that goes on forever — prose that most readers will skim. Instead, writing concise description will enable your scene to become 3D.

And you can do this without having to hit the “pause button” on your scene.

When I wrote my latest novel, UNWRITTEN MELODY, I tried a new technique. I created a “writer’s palette” before each scene I wrote. (This idea came from Susan May Warren’s Book Therapy tools, although she refers to it as a “scene sketch”.)

This writer’s palette is similar to an artist’s palette. Before an artist begins working, they mix their paints to create the colors they want to display on their masterpiece. These paints are arranged on their board. That way, while they paint, they can dip their paintbrush in their assortment of colors and apply it to their canvas. They don’t have to create the colored paint as they work; rather, it’s already prepared beforehand.

Similarly, a writer’s palette is our own assortment of “colors” that we can use to paint our scenes, and we can prepare this before we even put our pen to the page.

Here’s how you can do this:

(Again, I learned how to create a scene sketch through instruction at My Book Therapy.)

             1) Ask yourself, what scene do I want to paint?

Place yourself in an artist’s shoes. A blank canvas stands before you; what scene do you want to paint?

Close your eyes and envision the scene you’re going to write. Let it come to life in your imagination before you try to transcribe it onto the page.

What emotion/mood do you want to portray through this scene?

Now, open your writer’s palette. (This can be a page in your notebook or a new document in Word. While I wrote UNWRITTEN MELODY, I used the “Document Notes” tool in Scrivener to create these scene sketches.)

On this palette, answer the following questions about your scene:

  • Where? Why? Who? When? What? How?
  • What emotion/mood do I want to establish in this scene?

             2) Prepare your paints. What colors do you need to gather and mix?

Pretend you’re the POV character and you’re observing the surroundings through the lens of his/her perspective, worldview, personality, and attitude. What details does he/she notice? What descriptive hues do you need to combine so you can achieve the scene’s specific emotion/mood?

In your writer’s palette, prepare these details:

  • What does your character see? Hear? Touch? Taste? Smell?
  • What is your POV character’s attitude and view of his/her surroundings?
  • How do these sensory details emphasize the emotion of the scene?
  • Is there a metaphor/symbolism you can use to highlight this emotion?

             3) Record the details by choosing specific nouns and active verbs. In other words, gather your props.

While the scene is still in your imagination and you’re viewing it through the lens of your character, write down the scene’s details (keeping the emotion in mind as well). You’ll gather an array of details that you can potentially use as you write the scene.

But instead of writing “candles were lit and burning on the coffee table”, record the specific type of candle and its scent. And instead of writing, “long, draping curtains hung over the windows”, you can use its specific noun, such as, “pinch pleat curtains draped over the windows”.

~ ~ ~

By preparing your writer’s palette beforehand, you’re more likely to write a scene that becomes 3D in your reader’s imagination. You’ll know which details to incorporate (the ones that highlight the mood and POV character’s perspective) and which ones would only get in the way of the story. Your description will ring as authentic, and you may even convince your reader that you have lived through the specific time and place.

If you’d like to see an example of how I used a writer’s palette to write a certain scene in UNWRITTEN MELODY, click here for the scene excerpt and here for the writer’s palette.

~ ~ ~

How do you write description in your scenes? Do you create a writer’s palette or scene sketch to gather your “paints” before you begin to write?

[bctt tweet=”The Writer’s Palette: How to Write Concise Description to Liven Your Scenes #amwriting @TessaEmilyHall” username=””]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Re-Evaluate Your Writing Career by Returning to Your Author Dream

Almost every aspiring author dreams of what their life as a published author will look like some day: Multiple best-selling novels. Lines that stretch out the door at book signings. A cabin in the mountains. Books made into movies. Fat advances. And, of course, spending every waking hour either typing up the next Great American Novel or responding to fan mail.

Obviously that picture is far from the reality of what the life of today’s average novelist looks like. In order to make a living in today’s writing industry, most authors don’t just write books. They also teach. Speak. Blog. Write freelance articles. Offer coaching, consulting, or freelance editing services to other writers.

Yet with all of the possibilities for today’s writer, how are we supposed to know which paths to pursue and what kind of business model to create? After all, being an author is equivalent to being an owner of a small business. Sometimes I can become distracted by all the ideas floating around in my head that I forget to remind myself of the Big Picture of my writing career—the reason I’m pursuing this dream in the first place.

So, for the new year, I’ve decided to re-evaluate my business model and where I currently stand along my writing path. How am I doing this?

By returning to my Ultimate Dream as an Author.

Of course, your career as a writer might not look the way you originally thought it would. But I believe that, if God has given you the desire and dream of being an author, then it must’ve been for a reason. He has a plan and a purpose for this gift of yours. What is it that He’s planted inside of you? Why do you feel like you’ve been called into this profession? Is it to reach the lost? To provide lighthearted and clean entertainment?

    

With all of the possibilities for today’s writer, it can often be tempting to get carried away in all of these money-making avenues. As you begin a new year in your writing journey, it might be wise to re-evaluate where you currently stand by going back to the start, to the very moment when you first felt that tug on your heart to pursue writing.

I advise doing this by getting alone with God and your journal. In your journal, write the answers to these questions…

  1. What did I originally envision when I first felt called to pursue writing?
  2. Is that the same vision I have in mind for my writing career today?
  3. Are the steps I’m taking today leading me toward reaching this Dream Author Career?
  4. Are the decisions I’m making supporting my mission statement as an author?
  5. What do I believe God wants to accomplish through my writing career?

 

By answering these questions, hopefully you’ll be able to see your writing career from a big-picture perspective—beginning from the time you first dreamt of being an author, to where you stand today, and finally, where you’re headed. As you journal, spend time in prayer and ask God to give you the vision He wants you to have for your writing career. If you’d like to take it a step further, you could even summarize this vision down to 1 – 3 sentences, write it on a post-it note, and stick it on your computer or at your desk. That way, any time you come across a career-altering decision this year, you can see if it supports this vision.

Sure, that crazy dream you first had when you dreamt of becoming an author might be a stretch. But what if there’s some truth in that? What if God gave you those desires for a reason?

Every new year brings with it an exhilarating rush of possibility. Another chance to reach higher, try harder, and pursue new goals. But before we rush toward planning the path before us, let’s not forget to first be still and seek our Guide, the giver of this gift. Tune your heart to His. Is the path you’re headed one that’s been mapped out by Him?

With every step, let’s seek His direction and guidance. If we do that, then we’ll remain in His will. And who knows? The vision He has in mind for our writing careers might actually exceed anything we could ever imagine…

[bctt tweet=”Re-Evaluate Your Writing Career by Returning to Your Author Dream @TessaEmilyHall #writerslife” username=””]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Is the Writing Journey Worth It?

When I was a fifteen-year-old aspiring author, I emailed a bestselling author asking for writing advice. What she told me was not what I had expected to hear.

 

First, she told me to analyze my true intentions behind writing. If my pursuit for publication wasn’t fueled by a burning passion to write, or if I was interested in a field other than writing, then she advised that I re-think my dream of becoming an author. It’s not as glamorous as it looks, I remember her telling me via email.

 

Now that I’m seven years into my writing journey, I’ve experienced firsthand this “non-glamorous” writing life. Rejections. Isolation. Hours of hard work with sometimes little to show for it. I’ve often found myself rethinking the “warning” that bestselling author gave me and wondering if this is the best route to take.

 

As you begin to venture into the new year, you, too, might be re-evaluating your writing dreams and progress thus far. You might be asking yourself the same question … Is this writing journey really worth it?

 

I think, just like that best-selling author had told me, it comes down to your true intentions behind the pursuit for publication. Are you writing because you hope to become a rich? Or famous? Do you write so that your pride can be fed when you some day see your name on the cover of your book? If any of these are the reasons why you write – then I hate to break it to you, but no, the writing journey probably won’t be worth it for you. Because you’ll be faced with disappointments. Lots of it. And you’ll soon realize that being an author is nothing like what you had imagined.

 

But what if your true intention behind pursuing publication is because you can’t not write? Because the dream of being an author is one that you simply can’t ignore?

 

If that’s the case, then yes, the writing journey is worth it. It’s worth the hard work. Rejections. Isolation. The perks of being an author far outweigh the downsides, in my opinion.

 

What is it that makes the writing journey worth it for me?

 

The pure joy that comes from writing stories and hearing from readers. Networking with other writers through social media, conferences, groups, etc. The open doors. Contributing to the writing community through blogging and mentoring teen writers. Witnessing this dream coming to pass – even if it might not be exactly how it was initially envisioned.

 

If you’re an aspiring author, I want to leave you with the same warning that the bestselling author gave me when I was fifteen: The writing life isn’t as glamorous as it may look. And no, it’s not going to be worth it if your expectations are unrealistic and your motivation isn’t rooted in a passion for the written word.

 

Because, yes, the writing life is unpredictable. There are high points and low points, just as there is with any profession. Sacrifices will be made. Dreams will be shattered. There will come times when you, again, will return to these questions: Why am I doing this? Is it even worth my time?

 

Yet I’ve discovered that this will be the case in any profession that I choose. Personally, if I’m going to be working hard and pouring my energy into a certain field, I’d much prefer to choose a career that I’m actually interested in. That alone will be the pay off for me. Life is too short to neglect this burning passion I have to convert words into stories that come to life in the imagination of others.

 

That in itself – spending my short time on earth pursuing this passion – will make my writing journey worthwhile.

 

 

[bctt tweet=”Is the Writing Journey Worth It? #writerslife #amwriting @TessaEmilyHall” username=””]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Journaling Prompt Questions to Ask Your Protagonist

Sometimes, we writers can become so focused on writing an enticing, hard-to-put-down plot that we neglect one of the main building blocks of storytelling: Characterization. Without three-dimensional characters, our story falls apart, and our readers won’t have any motivation to follow the protagonist’s journey.

 

Another reason it’s important to craft well-developed characters is because the direction your plot takes is a direct result of characterization. Your protagonist’s personality, desires/goals, and backstory will influence his/her motivations; his motivations will influence the decisions he makes; and these decisions result in conflict. Thus, a plot is born.

 

To summarize: Without strong, believable, and authentic characterization, there is no story.

 

So how can we create well-rounded characters that dictate our plot? Is it possible to know our protagonist so well that, in a way, it’s almost as though we’ve become them?

 

Of course, filling out a character chart is a great way to figure out your characters’ basics. But sometimes, our characters don’t reveal their depth unless we ask specific questions that forces them to dig down deep. These questions reveal who they are truly are — not just the surface-level questions that character charts often present.

 

Interviewing your character — or asking them journaling prompt questions — will allow you to discover your protagonist at their very core. You’ll discover their unique voice, their heart, motivation, backstory, personality, etc.

 

Not sure of what to ask your protagonist? Here are some journaling prompt ideas to help you get started:

 

  1. When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why?
  2. Where do you hope to be in ten years? Why?
  3. What do you wish you could tell your sixteen-year-old self? (Or if the character is a teen: What do you wish you could tell your twelve-year-old self?) Why?
  4. If you could change anything about your life, what would it be? Why?
  5. If you could change anything about your personality and appearance, what would it be? Why?
  6. How would you describe your style? Be specific. Why do you prefer to wear these types of clothes?
  7. How do you cope with anger? Disappointment? Depression?
  8. Who is your best friend and why? What is your greatest memory with them?
  9. What’s your biggest regret? Why?
  10. In what ways do you like to express your creativity?
  11. What’s a secret that you hope never gets out? Why?
  12. What are you looking forward to the most? Why?
  13. Why did you choose the type of car that you drive? If you don’t have one yet, what is your dream vehicle and why?
  14. How have you changed within the past three years? How has your life changed within the past three years?
  15.  Are you right-brained or left-brained?
  16. What’s your happiest childhood memory? Why?
  17. What’s your worst childhood memory? Why?
  18. How have your parents influenced who you are, your worldview, and the decisions that you make today? How is your relationship with them? Do you resent the way they raised you?
  19. Who is the person you admire the most? Why?
  20. What’s your most prized possession? Why?

 

Questions for you …

How do you develop your characters? Do you prefer character charts or interview questions?

 

 

[bctt tweet=”Journaling Prompt Questions to Ask Your Protagonist @TessaEmilyHall #amwriting #writingprompts” username=””]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

5 Qualities Every Serious Writer Needs to Possess

The writing journey is not a smooth, easy ride. There will be setbacks, failures, doubts, and frustrations along the way to achieving your dream. Yet I believe that, with the right attitude and right approach, this journey can not only become bearable, but enjoyable for the aspiring author.

Here are five qualities every serious writer should possess before heading out on their journey:

           

            1. Humility

This is the single most important trait a writer should have. Why? Because it’s the foundation to all of the other qualities on this list. You can’t maintain the right attitude throughout your writing journey if you lack humility.

Writers need this trait for the following reasons . . .

  • So we can accept criticism and make our manuscript stronger
  • So we can understand that there will always be room to prove
  • So we can support other authors and give them the help they need in their own journey
  • So we can be an easy client for agents and editors to work with
  • So our head doesn’t swell when we receive positive feedback and reviews

            2.  Patience

One of the reasons why I wanted to begin my writing journey at 16-years-old was because I knew the publication process wouldn’t be quick. Every stage of the journey takes time — writing the manuscript, growing as a writer, building a platform, revision/editing, submission process, contract process, publication process, marketing, etc. And when there’s a dream that’s heavy on your heart, each stage seems much longer than it actually is.

The writing journey is just that: A journey. Although there are milestones along the way, I don’t truly believe the career novelist should have a “finish line”. Every milestone is an opportunity for celebration and a reminder that you’re closer to your Publication Dream. Aspiring authors especially need this trait so they don’t enter the journey with false expectations and give up when the process takes longer than they imagined.

            3. Generosity

Which writer do you believe leaves the best impression — the arrogant, haughty writer who is only in the business to achieve his/her own dreams? Or the writer who seeks to serve readers and fellow writers? The writing community is close-knit, and most of us are more than willing to share knowledge that we believe will help other writers. (This is why there are so many writing-related blog and books on the craft.) Don’t be that one writer who hoards their knowledge and seeks to gain help and info without ever giving back to the writing community. Most authors do not publish a book without the help of multiple other people (that’s why there are acknowledgements in the backs of books!). If you’ve reached where you are today because someone took the time to help you, don’t forget to return the favor — even if it’s not to the same person who helped you. What goes around will certainly come around!

            4. Selflessness

How can you be generous if you’re only focused on your own growth as a writer? Or how can you remain humble if your Ultimate Goal as an author has to do with “me, me, me”? It’s possible for the aspiring author to chase their dream (publication) and remain selfless in the process.

I advise re-evaluating the reason(s) you write and the Ultimate Goal for your writing journey. Is it to gain success and see your name in print? Or do you hope to offer stories that will provide entertainment for readers, shed light on a certain topic, minister to readers, etc.?

Again: The author who makes a lasting impression and gains the most popularity amongst readers is the one who not only writes great stories, but one who stays focused on others as well. This is the author who wants to connect with their readers. This is the author who will promote other books within their genre because in doing they’ll support their Ultimate Goal as an author: To introduce entertaining stories to readers.

            5. Self-confidence

(No, being selfless and having self-confidence is not an oxymoron!) I’ve noticed that, if a writer neglects to have confidence in their ability to write, they don’t get far in this journey. They’ll quit as soon as someone criticizes their work. If you truly want to reach publication, you’re going to have to start believing in yourself — and that will involve believing in your potential even if no one else does. Just because your writing isn’t perfect now doesn’t mean it can’t improve. And just because your story might have plot-holes doesn’t mean it’s too late to fix them. These are only obstacles to overcome, not Dead End signs. Every published author, I’m sure, has struggled with self-doubt at one point or another. But just because you don’t write in the same style as your favorite author doesn’t mean you can’t write.

Every writer has a unique style. Every writer has a unique calling for their publication journey. Focus on your own strengths, accomplishments, and purpose as a writer, and don’t allow yourself to compare yourself to others. Those writers have already been taken! Instead, be the best version of yourself that you can be. Keep growing in your craft, and write stories that you feel called to write and in the best way you know how.

Your future readers will some day thank you for not giving up!

[bctt tweet=”5 Qualities Every Serious Writer Needs to Possess #writerslife #amwriting @TessaEmilyHall” username=””]

– – –

Which quality on this list is hardest for you to attain? Are there any you’d like to add to this list? Let me know in the comments! 

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

What is Deep POV, and why is It Important?

Have you ever tried to tell your friends about an experience you had, but they didn’t give you the response you hoped for? Maybe they didn’t laugh when you gave the punchline of the story. You then tried to cover up your shame by saying, “You just had to be there.”

 

If we write our books in a shallow POV rather than in deep POV, we risk that same “cricket chirping” response from our audience. We’re narrating a story that could come across as much more powerful if we chose to instead invite the reader to experience it.

 

Deep POV is a way of showing rather than telling. It’s a writing technique that has grown in popularity over the past couple decades or so. When we write in deep POV, we’re giving our readers the opportunity to step into our protagonist’s shoes. They’ll walk through the pages of the story as if they themselves were the character.

 

If we can accomplish this, the setting will come to life. The journey that the protagonist takes will have more of an impact on the reader. Why? Because the reader wasn’t simply told about an experience our character had; they journeyed along with them.

 

Readers today–especially fans of YA fiction–search for these stories. They long to open a book and become transported into a different time and place. They want to forget about their surroundings, and even forget that they’re reading a book. They’re searching for stories that sweep them off their feet in an entertaining, thrilling, and emotional rollercoaster.

 

How can we, as authors, offer this kind of reading experience to our readers?

 

Avoid all traces of authorship. Resist the urge to tell the story. Engage all five senses. And when you write, step through the scene as if you are the character. This means you can only show the scene through their eyes. Everything must be filtered through your protagonist’s POV.

 

Here’s an example:

 

NOT Deep POV: Anna saw the bouquet of roses on the dining room table and smelled their sweet scent. Who brought these? she wondered.

 

Deep POV: Anna stepped into the kitchen, overtaken by a floral aroma. Where did that come from? The scent grew stronger as she peered into the dining room. A smile slid onto her lips. There it was. A bouquet of roses, tucked into a glass vase at the center of the table. Where could that have come from?

 

Notice how deep POV requires more words. If we want to offer this experience to our readers, it will require more work. Showing a scene almost always requires more words. But the payoff is worth it.

 

In the example that isn’t written in deep POV, the words “saw”, “smelled”, and “wondered” brings the reader out of Anna’s POV. It tells the audience what happened, yes—but it does so in a narrative form.

 

This is the difference between telling a friend about a scene from a movie and letting them watch it for themself.  

 

When writing in shallow POV, we risk the scene from coming to life in the reader’s imagination. We risk not giving our readers the opportunity to build a strong connection with our protagonist.

 

You might say, “Books weren’t always written in deep POV, yet people still enjoyed them. Why can’t I write my book in shallow POV, too?”

 

Think of it this way: Movies weren’t always filmed in color. Yet, the use of color in today’s films brings scenes to life. It provides an even deeper sense of realism and escapism. Why use tools of the past when we’ve been given far more powerful tools to tell our story?

 

If you want your book to resonate with today’s reader, and if you want to sell your book to an agent/publisher, I recommend utilizing this deep POV writing technique. Most agents and publishers today will reject or ask for a revision if a manuscript is written in shallow POV.

 

No, this isn’t an easy task to accomplish. It requires far more work. But you’re painting color to a black-and-white story. You’re adding “scratch and sniff” pages to your book. The result? Your readers will be brought deeper into the heart, mind, and emotions of your POV character.

 

The motivations of your protagonist will become more clear. The character ARC, more realistic. And when your protagonist reaches his/her “epiphany moment” at the end of the story, so will your reader. Thus, the theme of your story will have far more impact to your readers than if it were written in shallow POV.

 

So if you can accomplish this—if you write your story in deep POV—you won’t have to risk the “cricket chirping” response. You won’t have to tell your readers, “You just had to be there.”

 

Because they were there. They lived it. You wrote a book that entertained, provided escapism, tapped into emotions.

 

And as writers, shouldn’t that be our ultimate goal of storytelling anyway?

 

 

What’s your opinion of deep POV? Have you tried to write a story that utilizes this technique? Share your thoughts in the comments!

 

[bctt tweet=”What is Deep POV, and why is It Important? @TessaEmilyHall #amwriting #writerslife” via=”no”]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Pros & Cons of Signing with a Small Press

I was sixteen when I attended my first writing conference. My goal wasn’t to find a publisher; in fact, I didn’t think there were any publishers at the conference who were acquiring YA fiction. Because of this, I chose to fill my appointment time slots with meeting authors and an editor over a teen devotion website. It was during this appointment that the acquisitions editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas (LPC) overheard I wrote YA fiction and requested to see the first chapter of my MS.

After reading the chapter and asking me questions about the story, he then requested that I send him the full MS. A few months later, LPC offered me a contract.

Of course, I was ecstatic at his request. But I was also a newbie in the industry. How could I be sure that this company was legit?

I spent hours researching as much as I could about the publishing industry while polishing my manuscript. I soon discovered that the publisher, Eddie Jones, was highly respected. After several months of prayer (and several emails on my behalf apologizing for the wait), I finally signed the contract. And yes, I am very proud to say that my debut novel, Purple Moon, was published in 2013 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. (They have been an amazing company to work with!)

Now, my second YA novel, Unwritten Melody, will be released this November by Clean Reads.

I know there are probably several authors who might hesitate, just like I did, before they hand their baby over to a small press. That’s understandable. We do need to be careful about every decision we make in our writing career.

But I’ve realized that being published by a small press doesn’t have to be a “plan B” option. In my opinion, signing with a small press combines the benefits of both traditional and self-publishing. 


Here are some perks I’ve discovered that come with having your book published with a small to medium-sized publisher:

 

  1. They’re more likely to take chances on a new author. 

In 2010, when I attended the conference and met my publisher for Purple Moon, I was only five months into building my online presence. A bigger publisher probably wouldn’t have been willing to take the risk on signing with me, a newbie and teen writer at the time.

Building a platform is even more important now than it was then. From what I’ve witnessed through my internship at Hartline Literary Agency this year, publishers rarely sign with an author who doesn’t already have a readership — regardless of how talented the writer is. It’s too difficult for them to sell books by debut authors, and since they only allow a certain number of publishing slots to be filled per year, the author may be competing against well-known and established authors. Smaller publishers, on the other hand, seem to be more flexible when it comes to signing new authors.

 

  1. They’re willing to take chances in specific genres.

As a writer, there’s nothing more frustrating than pouring hours into writing your book — and then realizing there are no current publishers who are acquiring your genre. This is how I’ve felt the past few years about the Christian YA market. Bigger publishers haven’t had much success in this genre recently; thus, they aren’t seeking to take on many (if any) YACF projects. Again, smaller publishers have more flexibility in this area.

 

  1. Smaller presses usually offer larger royalty percentages.

Since small to medium-sized publishers can’t always offer an advance, the author’s royalty percentages tend to be higher. This also means that the authors don’t have to stress about paying out their advance.

In a larger house, it’s much more difficult for an author to stand out in the crowded market, sell the amount of copies that will please their publisher, and then have another contract offered.

 

  1. Smaller presses offer more freedom and flexibility.

Many of the smaller publishing houses welcome the author’s input when it comes to designing the book cover. Authors do have a say in a larger house as well, but more often, small companies are more likely to meet what the author had envisioned and welcome their feedback in the process. (The cover designer, however, still has the final say in this area.)

 

  1. Smaller presses tend to have faster release dates.

When an author signs with a large house, they can expect to wait 1 – 2 years minimum for the book’s release. Of course, that allows plenty enough time for editing and marketing. But smaller presses are sometimes able to release the book within the same year, if all goes according to plan.

 

  1. Many small publishers don’t require submissions from agented authors only.

LPC contracts authors they meet at conferences, or they’ll sign with books submitted by the agent. However, the majority of small/medium-sized publishers — including Clean Reads, White Fire Publishing, Ambassador International, Entangled Publishing, etc. — are open to un-agented submissions. This, of course, means that the author doesn’t have to split their royalty checks.

 

If you’re trying to decide between seeking a contract with a large publisher or a small/medium-sized publisher, here are some disadvantages to small press publishing that might help provide the complete spectrum: 

 

  1. Low (or zero) marketing budget.

Many small publishers do not have a marketing budget, and they typically don’t assign a publicist for their authors. Then again, the majority of book marketing these days falls on the shoulders of the author anyway. And that’s not to say that the publisher might aid in the author’s marketing in other ways. (Both LPC and Clean Reads provide their authors with plenty of help, advice, and tools that boost book sales.)

 

  1. Little to no advance. 

But as I mentioned earlier, no advance also means higher royalty percentage.

 

  1. Most bookstores prefer to sell books that are published by larger houses.

As much as I love bookstores, the truth is, they’re no longer the most popular place for readers to find authors. The majority of book sales are usually driven by online marketing efforts and sales that are generated through e-copies of the book.

 

  1. In some small houses, the cover art isn’t as quality as a larger publisher’s book covers.

This is usually due to low budget. I can’t personally vouch for this, since the covers at LPC and Clean Reads are top-notch.

 

If you’re considering trusting your book into to hands of a small publisher, I recommend that you spend the necessary amount of time doing research, praying, and weighing pros and cons. Every writer’s publishing journey is different. The great thing about today’s writing industry is that there are a variety of publishing options available to the aspiring author. Choose the direction that best fits your vision as an author and the publishing model that you believe will further your career the most.

 

If you were to be offered a contract from a smaller publisher, would you accept it? Or would you prefer to wait for a potential contract with a larger house instead?

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

How to Choose, Develop, & Research a Setting: Part 2

Once you’ve chosen the setting of your book—which we discussed in Part 1 of this series—it’s important to spend time researching the setting so you can portray this location accurately.

 

Here’s how you can research your setting:

 

  •  Take a research trip to your setting (if feasible).
  •  Watch YouTube videos. Many times, people will 
give a “virtual tour” of a certain city. As you watch, pay close attention to the sights and sounds of the place.
  •  Research the location and its history through various online resources. (Keep in mind, however, that some websites, such as Wikipedia, may not provide 100% accurate information and should not considered a reliable source.)
  •  Read books about the location, including memoirs.
  •  Read the online newspaper of the location.
  •  Discover pictures of the place via Pinterest. (Make 
sure to pin them to your storyboard as well!)
  •  Interview people who have a connection to the location.
  •  Research the city through www.areavibes.com. This 
website allows you to explore a location and discover its amenities, housing and neighborhoods, population, economics, crime, weather, etc. It will even compare these results with another location as well.
  •  Take advantage of Google Earth and its street view feature.

 

The same amount of work must be applied to settings that are invented as well. Obviously, you can’t research the setting—but by using the above and below checklists, you can brainstorm specific location details. (If you do this, you might even be able to trick your readers into believing that your setting is an actual place!)

 

When you research/invent your setting, I recommend recording the info in an online file or notebook. As you do, take note of the following:

 

  • What unique elements does the place have that contribute toward its personality? Are there rolling hills? Willow trees that form a canopy over a certain street? Farm animals held behind fences?
  • How do people speak? What is their dialect and popular slang?
  • Where is the place located geographically?
  • What is the climate in every season?
  • What is the history of the location, and how has it shaped 
the setting into what it is today?
  • What is the most popular religion? (For instance, is it 
located in the Bible belt?)
  • What are the socioeconomics?
  • What is the atmosphere? Is it a laid back town in the 
south, where people are accustomed to a slow-­paced lifestyle, or does it take place within the hustle and bustle of NYC?
  • What are the popular fashion and hairstyles?
  • Where people shop for food, coffee, groceries, clothes, ice 
cream, etc.?
  • What are the significant landmarks and parks?
  • Where do the teenagers hangout?
  • What kind of animals can be found in the location? 
Plants? Insects?
  • If it’s a small town, what big city is it located near?
  • What are the popular street names?

 

As you research, you will collect facts about this location; however, when you write your story, these facts must be filtered through the eyes of your POV character. Everyone is going to have a unique attitude toward a specific location. This attitude is influenced by a number of factors: the person’s personal experiences, memories, personality, worldview, etc. Their perception of this setting is also a great tool to contribute to the book/scene’s particular mood/emotion.

 

For example, the following excerpt is the first page of my YA novel, PURPLE MOON:

            “Why couldn’t you just leave me alone in our apartment for the summer, Mom? I’m sixteen. I’m responsible. Mostly mature.”

            Our Camry swerves as we turn into Lakeview Estates. Three-­‐‑story homes span the landscaping that stretches for acres then tucks into the bordering lake.

            Families visit here every year for summer vacation. The majestic mountain peaks that outline the water of Lake Lure offer a refuge of seclusion to escape the stress of hectic lifestyles. No words describe the beauty of this place.

            Yet I shut my eyes and sink further into the seat, trying to wish myself away. Somewhere else. Maybe to the fairy tale land that I used to imagine when I was a kid. I would even welcome the idea of turning around and driving all the way back to Brooklyn.

            Anywhere but here.
”

(c) Purple Moon by Tessa Emily Hall – 2013 – Published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas

 

Based on that excerpt, what would you say is the attitude that my protagonist, Selena, has toward the setting?

 

The fact about the setting, which is included in this excerpt, is that Lake Lure is a beautiful tourist location. But it’s clear that Selena is not happy to be there. She portrays this not only through internal monologue, but through her body language as well (sinking into her seat and closing her eyes).

 

Later, Selena reacts to the thick humidity of Lake Lure by mentioning how she should have brought more summer clothes. Why wasn’t she prepared for the hot weather? Probably because she was accustomed to living in Brooklyn, NY, which is a much cooler climate than Lake Lure, even in the summer.

 

Do you see how one’s memories, personality, and background all come into play when describing the setting of a novel?

 

 “I wouldn’t have thought a simple sketch of a lake could have so many emotional strings attached to it. But it does. For me, at least.” ~Selena from PURPLE MOON

 

So ask yourself: How does my protagonist connect to the setting? You can brainstorm this by asking the following questions:

 

  • What are her significant memories of certain areas of the location? What are the sights, sounds, smells, etc. that remind her of these memories, and what is her attitude toward them?
  • Is this her birthplace? If not, when did she move there, and how does it compare with the other places she has lived?
  • How has this location influenced her personality and worldview?
  • Where does your character go during her free time?
  • What street does she live on?
  • What kind of house does she live in?
  • Where does her family fall on the socioeconomics scale?

 

Remember:

 

The setting of a story should be treated as if it were another character, so make sure to research it beforehand.

Then, when you begin to write, highlight on the specific details that will breathe life into your setting. However, make sure that this is presented through the eyes of your POV (Point of View) character.

Through proper developing and portraying your setting, you will give your readers the opportunity to become transported into the story’s location . . . and they’ll never once have to leave the comfort of their own home. 😉

 

 

[bctt tweet=”How to Choose, Develop, & Research a Setting: Part 2 #amwriting #writingtips” username=”tessaemilyhall”]

 

Do you prefer to invent a location, or choose an already-existing one? What’s your favorite part about researching the setting? Let me know in the comments!

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

How to Choose, Develop, & Research a Setting: Part 1

Setting is far more than the backdrop of a novel. It’s the environment that breathes life into a story. It can paint hues of emotion, provide necessary backstory, enhance characterization, and serve as a tool to unfold significant plot elements.

When a writer prepares to write a book, they should spend just as much time researching and developing a setting as they do with their characters. In fact, setting should be treated with much attention as if it were a character in itself.

Think of your favorite book. How would the plot differ if it were set in the snow-capped mountains of Colorado? Or in a dry desert of New Mexico?

When a writer accurately portrays a believable setting for their novel, the reader becomes sucked into the story. This should be done in a way so that the story would not be the same if it were set in another location.

For example: The setting is a crucial element in the movie The Titanic. It would be impossible to set that story in another location; the entire plot would unravel.

Readers fall in love with books that present well-developed settings and story worlds. What would The Chronicles of Narnia be without Narnia? Or Anne of Green Gables without Green Gables?

When choosing a setting, ask yourself:

  •  What is the mood and theme of this story? What kind of location—a small town, big city, etc.—would best portray this?
  •  How will the setting affect the plot of the story?
  •  Will I use a real town or invent one?
  •  What cities—including my hometown— am I familiar with? Out of those, which one am I most passionate about?
  •  How can I weave symbolism into this setting?
  •  How does the setting influence my protagonist? What is his/her attitude toward this location? 
(This is a great way to unravel backstory — through showing the memories tied to her surroundings.)

blue ridge mountains

I chose Lake Lure, NC for the setting of Purple Moon for the following reasons:

  1.  I realized I had yet to read a YA novel that was set in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina.
  2.  I knew I wanted to set the story in the south since I am from SC.
  3.  I came across a photograph of the mountains outlining a lake. This inspired me to do a Google search of lakes in North Carolina.
  4.  After I found a list, I chose Lake Lure because the name reflected a theme in the novel.
  5.  Since my protagonist is an artist, the mountains tucked into the lake keeps her inspired and reflects her personality.

If you want your readers to become swept away in your story, it’s crucial that you spend necessary time researching your setting before you begin to write.

It’s important to research your setting for the following reasons:

  • Believability
  •  Accuracy
  •  So your readers can feel as if they have stepped into 
the pages of your book. You want to give them the sense 
that they are living in the story.
  •  To prevent your story from unfolding in front of a “closed 
curtain”.

In the next post, we’ll discuss how to go about researching your setting and how to filter it through the eyes of your protagonist.

[bctt tweet=”How to Choose, Develop, & Research a Setting: Part 1 via @TessaEmilyHall #write” username=””]

What is your favorite story setting? How does it enhance the plot, theme, mood, and protagonist of the novel?

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

How to Create & Maintain a Blog to Build a Readership: Part 1

Photo credit:

Savannah asked, “Do you have any tips for people who are new to blogging or would like to start?”

I began my blog, Christ is Write, over six years ago when I was 16-years-old. My intention going into it wasn’t to build a readership. I simply wanted to have an outlet where I could share my faith-related reflections and the insights I was learning on the writing craft.

Within the first few months, I reached 100 followers and regular blog visitors.

Creating my blog was one of the best decisions I’ve made so far in my writing journey. Not only has it advanced my career by helping me to establish a readership (which generated book sales), build a brand, and network with other writers, but it’s also granted me the satisfaction of instant publication for my writing.

I’ve grown as a writer through the weekly discipline of maintaining my blog and writing on specific topics. Simply put, there are far greater to blogging other than building a readership.

But as I mentioned in a previous post, agents and editors are becoming more and more strict about platforms. It’s reaching the point where they won’t even consider signing with a fiction author unless he/she has developed a healthy online following.

And one of the best ways to do this is through creating—and maintaining—a blog.

So if you’re an aspiring author hoping to create a blog for the purpose of building a readership, ask yourself . . .

1. What is my brand?

What is the specific impression you’d like to leave on your readers? An author’s brand is the image and/or type of book your future readers will think of when they hear your name. It combines the author’s genre, personality, and unique characteristics in a way that sets them apart from other authors.

What image (theme, mood, layout, colors, fonts, picture, etc.) would best portray this brand and represent your work/personality?

2. Who is my target audience?

Be specific about this one as well, because each post you write will be catered toward this group of people. What is the target age group? Gender? What interests/hobbies do they share? If you’d like to see a flock of readers who consistently return to your blog, as opposed to random spurts of readers, then it’s important to narrow your audience focus by creating a well-defined target audience. 

3. What kind of posts can I write that will reach this audience? 

For instance, if you want to start a lifestyle blog for teen girls, then you could write posts that are popular amongst that age group. (Specific topics that come to mind are prom, makeup tutorials, college advice, developing a healthy-self image, etc.) The key here is to figure out how you can reach this audience through only blogging about topics you’re passionate about.

4. What is the overall theme of my blog?

Choose 1 – 3 topics that are frequently covered on your blog. (For instance, I like to blog about faith and fiction.) This will create the umbrella that all of your sub-topics will be placed beneath. It helps to create a narrow focus for your blog—which, in return, will contribute in establishing your consistent readership.

Eventually, you may feel as though blogging is cutting into your writing time. But as long as you invest more time writing rather than blogging, you’ll be fine. In fact, blogging enhances your writing. Anything that requires the discipline to write will improve your writing. (Yes, even essays!) You’re also practicing writing on a deadline and brainstorming new ideas.

And the best benefit, of course, is attaining a readership for your future books.

In the next post, we’ll delve a little deeper into how to maintain a blog once it’s created.

If you have a blog, what has been the greatest benefit to come from it? If you don’t have a blog, do you think creating one would help to establish a following?

Photo credit: samedaypapers.com

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

10 Tips for Reading Through the Eyes of a Writer

Book and glasses

For most writers, our passion to write was birthed from a passion to read. We grew up immersed in books. Books that touched us, entertained us, made us laugh and cry. And somewhere along the way, we discovered that we, too, wanted to create the same effect for readers through our own stories.

As writers, it’s only natural that we should want to learn from the masters. We should not only read for enjoyment, but for education as well.

Sure, there are plenty books on the writing craft that can give us instruction. I’m not against this at all. But personally, the best way I learned how to write was from reading books through the eyes of a writer.

How is this done?

Here are 10 tips for reading through the eyes of a writer:

        1. Study the plot as it unravels. When would you assume Act 1 ends and Act 2 begins? Can you identify the character’s external and internal goals at the beginning of the book? What is the conflict and unanswered questions that the author has set up? How is the backstory woven in without interrupting the story?

        2. Study the scene structure and pacing. Does it begin in a way that “grabs” you? Does it end in a way that lures you to read the next scene?

        3. Study the author’s wordsmithing. Are there words you are not familiar with? If so, highlight them and research their definition. How does the author’s word choice create tension? Strengthen mood and emotion? How does it develop characterization and paint the scene in your imagination?

        4. Study the rhythm. Read the book out loud. How do the words and dialogue flow? How are the sentences structured in a way that intensifies the mood of the scene?

        5. Study characterization. Does each character have their own unique personality, dialect, style, traits, etc.? How is this revealed in a way that shows rather than tells? How do the secondary characters contribute to the plot, and are they three-dimensional or cardboard characters?

        6. If you lose focus in the book, identify at which point your attention began to lack. Was it caused from a decrease in conflict/tension? Did it become too easy for the character to reach his/her goal? Or is it because the scenes were passive, written about the character’s day-to-day, dull life?

        7. If you love the book, identify why you can’t seem to put it down. Is it the writing style or the plot? Is it because the writing is concise and tight, or because suspense is woven into each scene?

        8. Study the emotion and humor. If the story makes you cry, take note of how the author tapped into your emotions. How was this emotion portrayed without “telling” or coming across as overly dramatic? If the story makes you laugh, take note of the kind of humor the author used and how they portrayed this without coming across as cheesy.

        9. Study the setting. Do you think it was well-developed and/or well-researched? Does it contribute to the mood of each scene? How did the author use sensory details to highlight unique features of the setting without interrupting the flow of the story?

        10. Study the theme. Do you have an idea as to what the theme is by the end of the book? If so, how did the author get this across without “preaching” to the reader? Or if it did come across as preachy, how could the author have subtly woven in the theme instead?

It might take longer to read a book if you study it through the eyes of a writer rather than a reader. But if you do this — if you dissect books as you read them and highlight passages when necessary — then this should result in a major improvement in your own writing.

“To succeed as a novelist, reading novels must be a priority. Don’t be afraid. You won’t lose your voice; you will only enhance it. And soon, students will be using your novels as their textbooks.”

~Linda Hall

[bctt tweet=”10 Tips for Reading Through the Eyes of a Writer @tessaemilyhall #amwriting #writingtips”]

[bctt tweet=”Can our writing improve by studying the books we read? @tessaemilyhall #writingtips #amwriting”]

Do you read books through the eyes of a writer? If so, how has it made a difference in your writing?

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Build a Platform & Increase Chances of Publication

“Does building a platform really increase chances of publication?”

This is a question many beginning authors ask when they are told to focus on building a platform—even before they receive a book contract.

“What’s the big deal?” they ask. “Shouldn’t I spend time working on my book instead of blogging? Won’t I gain a readership when my book is published?”

In the past, aspiring authors did not have to worry about building a brand, blog, or platform. They simply wrote a book, landed an agent, and received a publishing contract.

This is not the case with today’s writing industry.

If an aspiring author wants to gain interest from an agent/publisher, they must try to build a platform. When a publisher receives a proposal from an author, they often do an online search of the author. They want to see how many books the writer will be able to sell based on the number of potential readers they can reach through their blog and social media.

So, how can you, an aspiring author, build a platform—even as a teen?

Here’s how:

It’s pretty tough for an aspiring author to build a platform without writing a blog. Is it possible? Maybe.

But if you really want to impress an agent or publisher, don’t skip this. Blogging is a great tool to brand yourself as an author, build a readership, and build your platform—even before your book is published.

As a teen, you especially have the advantage of beginning to grow a platform early. Since it usually takes a long time to build one, you can try to begin growing it now before you completely dive completely into the writing industry.

But remember: A platform isn’t built overnight. It takes time, effort, and consistency.

However, I still advise that aspiring authors spend the majority of their time writing. Because if you don’t have anything to pitch to an agent/publisher—then, well, the time you devote into establishing a readership will be fruitless.

How has building a platform paid off in your writing career? Do you enjoy blogging, or do you consider it to be a waste of time? I’d love to hear what you think!

[bctt tweet=”Should aspiring authors build a platform? via @tessaemilyhall”]

[bctt tweet=”Build a Platform & Increase Chances of Publication via @tessaemilyhall “]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

5 Reasons Teens SHOULDN’T Pursue a Writing Career

[bctt tweet=”5 Reasons Teens SHOULDN’T Pursue a Writing Career #teenwriters #writingtips”]

When I was 14, I emailed a best-selling author asking for writing advice.

Rather than receiving an encouraging response like I’d anticipated, instead she sent me a list of reasons of why I might not want to pursue writing.

If you’re trying to decide whether or not to write books for the rest of your life, it’s wise to look at both the negative and positive aspects of this career.

Here are the reasons why you SHOULDN’T pursue writing:

1) It does not guarantee fame or money.

The best-selling author asked me: Why do you want to pursue writing? Is it for fame and money? If so, you’re in for a disappointment.

Very few people make a fortune off writing these days. In fact, many authors work a side-job so they can pay their bills.

If you aspire to be an author for either of these reasons—not only are you going into this career for the wrong reasons, but you are also in for a huge letdown.

2) It’s a lonely job.

So many people think that being an author is glamorous. But what’s so glamorous about staying in sweats all day, chatting with make-believe characters rather than actual human beings?

A writer’s daily routine involves sitting in front of a computer. Alone. For hours. In their home, or perhaps at a coffee shop.

Either way, very little human interaction is involved on a day-by-day basis.   

3) Nowadays, an author’s career no longer consists of only writing books.

Today’s author has to wear several hats. Their day-to-day workload no longer involves penning story after story.      

It also involves building a platform. Marketing. Blogging. Branding. Interacting with others through social media.

In other words: Authors are no longer simply artists. We are also entrepreneurs. Publishers look for writers who have an established web presence, brand, as well as writers who know the ins and outs of how to market a book.

And if your book doesn’t sell due to a lack of marketing/branding/platforming, then guess what?

Your chances of landing another book contract are slim to nothing.

4) Being an author requires a HUGE backbone, as well as humility.

The story you’ve been working on for years? It might become torn to pieces by an agent. The writing you thought was to perfection? An editor will list every area you need to improve in your craft.

Then, once you think your book is done going through the shredder and you can FINALLY send your masterpiece to the public—your pride becomes shattered. Negative reviews start flooding in as soon as the book is published, and you’re left wondering why you ever thought you could write to begin with.

Okay, so your writing journey might not look that intense. But the point remains the same: If you want to be an author, you might want to start growing a back-bone now and accept the fact that you do have room to improve.

5) It’s tempting to compare your achievements and successes with other writers. 

Are you competitive? Do you envy others when they get further along than you? If so, writing might not be the best career for you to pursue.

This journey is filled with setbacks, failures, successes—setbacks, failures, and successes. Some of your writer-friends might land a book deal sooner than you. Or maybe they’ll receive film interest in their book. Win some awards. Perhaps their publisher will schedule a book tour to help promote their latest release.

Meanwhile, you’re still waiting for that first book contract.

A writer of true character will understand that each person is running their own race. Sure, you might be in it for the same goal—but ultimately, each writer is unique. Intended to write different books with a different style and for a different purpose. No one can run your race except you.

A mature writer will understand this. They will be content with his/her unique writing path, confident that their dreams will unfold when it’s time.

Being an author doesn’t just involve celebrating your own successes; it also involves cheering other writers on as well. Helping them improve their craft. Celebrating their victories, endorsing their books, and promoting their latest release.

If you’re the kind of person who can’t stand to see someone else achieve “your” dreams, then perhaps writing isn’t the career for you.

[bctt tweet=”A mature writer will be content with his/her unique writing path, confident their dreams will unfold when it’s time. #writingtips”]

~ ~ ~

If, after reading the negative aspects to the writing career, you STILL want to pursue writing—then I’m going to ask the same question my mom would ask me when I was little:

Someone has to be an author. Someone has to fill those empty spaces on bookshelves and make a mark on the world through the stories they write.

Why can’t it be you?

~ ~ ~

Does this list make you want to reconsider your dream of being an author? Comment below!

Categories
Dear Young Scribes Genre

How to Set Writing Goals and Finish Your Book

 

[bctt tweet=”How to Set Writing Goals and Finish Your Book #writingtips @tessaemilyhall “]

As a teen, you have plenty of time to continue to grow in your craft and finish your book. But even though you aren’t in a rush to achieve publication, you can decrease chances of procrastination and distractions by setting writing goals.

Here’s how:

  • Time yourself as you write and calculate how many words, on average, you write in an hour. (For example: Let’s say it takes me 1 hour to write 1,000 words.)
  • Decide on an amount of hours you are able to work on your book weekly. (If I can find time to write for 2 hours a day and five days a week, then I would be able to work on my book for 10 hours per week.)
  • Calculate the estimated amount of words you could write per week if you stick to this plan. (In the above example, I could write 10,000 words per week.)
  • Then, calculate how long it will take you to complete your book. (If I had only 20,000 more words to write of my book, then I could finish it within two weeks if I stuck with this plan.)

You could also do this process in reverse.

For example, if you hope to finish your book within four weeks and you still have 40,000 more words to write, you could:

  • Decide on the amount of words you would like to complete in one week. (In this example, let’s say that you chose to set a goal for 10,000 words per week. That way, you would reach your goal of 40,000 words within four weeks.)
  • Calculate how many words you can write in an hour. (Let’s say you wrote 500 words per hour.)
  • Then, calculate how many hours per day you should devote to writing in order to meet your weekly goal. (You would be able to write 2,000 words per day if you wrote for 4 hours a day. If you wrote five days a week, then you would reach your weekly goal. And if you meet your weekly goal four weeks in a row, then you would have reached your ultimate goal of 40,000 words in one month.)

By breaking down your writing goals, you reduce chances of becoming overwhelmed at the idea of writing a book. Instead, you’ll discover how the process of writing a book is simple: It is achieved through the daily discipline of writing the same amount of words that could compose a blog post.

[bctt tweet=”By breaking down your writing goals, you reduce chances of becoming overwhelmed at the idea of writing a book. #amwriting @tessaemilyhall”]

Stick with this, and eventually, your book will be complete!

Do you set writing goals? If so, has it helped you finish your book?

(PS: From now until the end of December, you can receive a discount off of my teen writing program, WRITE NOW! Click here to find out more.)

Categories
Uncategorized

5 Ways Teen Writers Can Gain Experience & Increase Chances of Publication

[bctt tweet=”5 Ways #TeenWriters Can Gain Experience & Increase Chances of Publication @tessaemilyhall #amwriting”]

A degree in creative writing isn’t required for aspiring authors. Instead, writers should strive to gain experience and build their resume to increase chances of publication.

The writing journey can be a long process. You teens, however, have an advantage, because you can get a “head start”. By investing your time into building your writing resume, you might find success earlier in life.

Here are five ways teen writers can gain experience and increase chances of publication:

1) Write a blog and build a platform.

Publishers like to accept new authors who have already established a platform for themselves. How can you do this? By writing a blog and being active on social media.

I launched my blog when I was 16. I was able to network with other writers, practice writing on a deadline, and gather a readership before my book became published.

If you need help learning how to effectively use social media and blog to establish a platform, I highly recommend reading Edie Melson’s book, Connections.

2) Become published in magazines and websites.

I began writing for publications as a teenager. Now, on my writing resume and bio, I can list the websites and magazines my work has appeared in.

Not only can this contribute to your portfolio and establish a platform, but it might show an agent or publisher that you have writing aptitude.

Want to get started publishing your work? Check out the latest Writer’s Market Guide.

3) Enter writing contests.

This is one thing I wish I would’ve done as a teen writer. If you place in a writing contest, a publisher or agent will be more likely to look at your work. It’ll prove that you are a serious and talented writer.

This is yet another way to bridge the gap between amateur writer to experienced. (Not to mention, many industry professionals are contest judges themselves!)

Here is a list of writing contests you might be interested in. 

4) Attend writing conferences.

Recently, I attended my 10th writing conference. I can’t stress enough how valuable and worthwhile conferences are—even for teens! I went to my first one at 16-years-old, and it is there that I met my publisher. I found my agent at another one two years later.

Writing is a solitary career. By attending a conference—even a small one—not only do you have the chance to meet industry professionals and pitch your book, but you might also make writing friends that could last a lifetime.

Besides, why wouldn’t you want to spend a week immersed in workshops that can help improve your craft? (And drinking gallons of coffee?) 😉

Check out this list of writing conferences. There are some conferences that have a teen track as well.

5) Take workshops, join a critique group, and become apart of a writer’s organization.

When a publisher sees that you are invested in your writing education, they will realize you aren’t another aspiring amateur writer. They’ll especially be impressed to see that you are a teen writer who is knowledgeable about the craft and industry.

Consider checking out Go Teen Writers, which is an online community where you can find like-minded writers your age (and perhaps even an online critique partner).

Do your research to see if there is a writing organization you could join, and if there are critique groups and writing workshops in your area.

Need help? Send me an email!

[bctt tweet=”#TeenWriters: Check out these tips on how to build writing experience @tessaemilyhall #amwriting #teenwriters”]

Young Scribe: You have the advantage of launching your writing journey early in life. Don’t take this time for granted! Begin gaining experience now to increase your chances of publication.

What are ways you have invested in this career? Leave a comment!

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

5 Common Writing Mistakes by Teen Writers

[bctt tweet=”#TeenWriters: To avoid weak writing, check your book for these common mistakes #writingtips@tessaemilyhall “]

Teen writers: You’re entering an industry filled with experienced writers—people who have been on this journey for decades.

If you want to avoid coming across as an amateur, check your manuscript for these 5 common mistakes made by teen writers:

      1. Not enough sensory details

When I write a first draft, I focus on the dialogue and action, recording the “movie” as it plays in my mind. Thus, my first draft is really my book’s skeleton.

As a beginning teen writer, I neglected to breathe life into my scenes by incorporating the five senses. During my rewrites of Purple Moon, I printed out the entire manuscript, then highlighted the areas that could use sensory details.

Sensory details are important because . . .

– They keep readers grounded in a scene

– They allow readers to experience the journey along with the protagonist

– They “fool” the reader into believing the story is real

– They add color to the black-and-white pages of a manuscript

      2. “Telling” instead of “showing”

Readers don’t want to be told a story; they want to live a story. Authors should convince the reader they are the main character. (Sounds schizophrenic, doesn’t it?)

For instance:

Rachel was embarrassed because a group of girls starred at her.

Can you feel Rachel’s embarrassment, see the group of girls, or understand why she was embarrassed? Not at all.

Rewrite it in a way that brings the reader into the scene:

Heat flooded Rachel’s cheeks. A group of girls huddled next to the lockers, whispering and snickering, their eyes burning holes through Rachel. What was she thinking? Rachel knew she shouldn’t have worn the Christmas sweater Grandmother bought her. 

Notice I didn’t name the emotion in that version, yet it’s obvious Rachel is embarrassed, and we know why she is, too.

When it comes to showing vs. telling, ask yourself . . .

– Why does my character feel this emotion?

– What does she see? Hear? Taste? Smell? Feel?

– What is her physical response or body language?

– What is her thought process?

Don’t tell the reader what happens; let them experience it.

      3. Overuse of exclamation marks

She couldn’t believe her eyes!

What do I do!

Overuse of exclamation marks scream amateur! That’s because they drain power of what is being emphasized. It’s as if the author is trying to tell the reader, this is how she’s thinking it! Or, this is how extreme the action is!

In other words: They tell rather than show.

Plus, they are awfully distracting. It reminds the reader that the story isn’t real.

Instead, show the emphasis through body language, action, emotions, etc. Allow the reader to catch onto the exclamation without having to be told what is being exclaimed.

      4. Lacking story-structure

Since my stories are character-focused, I used to write scenes that weren’t related to the story’s plot. Sure, these scenes could have actually occurred in my main character’s day-to-day life, but they didn’t push the story forward or deepen characterization.   

Every book needs to have story-structure, and every scene needs to directly relate with that structure.

Think of your book like a movie. Then, go back and cut any scene that slows down the pace.

Ask yourself: What is the purpose of this scene? Does it push the story forward?

      5. Overuse of adverbs and adjectives

In elementary school, I was taught to incorporate as many adjectives and adverbs into my stories as possible.

My writing sounded like this:

The big, fat, yellow sun shined brightly against the light blue sky.

Colorful, isn’t it? And yet, sometimes those colors are the very things that distract the reader from the story. My agent puts it this way: “…too much description makes the colors all bleed together.”

Nowadays, adjectives and adverbs are lazy. They tell the action, emotion, scenery, etc. instead of allowing the reader to experience it.

But didn’t books use adverbs and adjectives in the old days?

Yes. But we’re not still making black and white movies anymore, are we? We’ve improved our technology and have discovered new—better—ways of capturing film.

Same with books. We’ve discovered ways to write that invite the reader to delve deeper into the story.

Just like exclamation points, overusing adverbs and adjectives are a form of telling rather than showing.

Replace them with strong verbs and nouns. This will help the reader picture the scene for themselves rather than be told how to picture it.

For instance:

She quickly ran up the stairs.

This tells us how she ran up the steps. Replace it with a strong verb, such as:

She hurried up the stairs.

She rushed up the stairs.

The adverb isn’t necessary in those sentences. Plus, the verbs convey a much stronger sense of action, don’t you think?

Which of these mistakes are hardest for you to overcome? Any you’d like to add to this list?

[bctt tweet=”5 Common Writing Mistakes by #TeenWriters @tessaemilyhall #writingtips #amwriting”]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

10 Teen Authors who Landed Book Deals

Although I don’t believe every teen writer should strive for publication, let’s face it: More and more teen authors are landing book deals these days.

Writing is a form of art—just like dance, theater, and music. Teens have become successful in each of these industries. Why should the writing industry be excluded?

So if you’re a teen writer, don’t become discouraged by the naysayers. Besides, several teens authors have landed book deals, such as:

1) BETH REEKLES

BethReekles

  • Age when debut novel sold: 17
  • Debut novel: THE KISSING BOOTH
  • Publisher: Random House UK
  • Route to publication: Wattpad.com
  • Film adaptation: In the works

2) KODY KEPLINGER

KodyK

  • Age when debut novel sold: 18
  • Debut novel: DUFF
  • Publisher: Poppy
  • Route to publication: Literary agent
  • Film adaptation: Yes

3) CHRISTOPHER PAOLINI

Eragon

  • Age when debut novel sold: 19
  • Debut novel: ERAGON
  • Publisher: Self-published, then Knopf
  • Route to publication: Self-publishing
  • Film adaptation: Yes

4) STEPH BOWE

stephb

  • Age when debut novel sold: 15
  • Debut novel: GIRL SAVES BOY
  • Publisher: Text Publishing
  • Route to publication: Literary agent

5) S.E. HINTON

theoutsiders

  • Age when debut novel published: 18
  • Debut novel: THE OUTSIDERS
  • Publisher: Viking Press
  • Film adaptation: Yes

6) SAMANTHA SHANNON

boneseason

  • Age when debut novel sold: 17
  • Debut novel: THE BONE SEASON
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury
  • Route to publication: Literary agent
  • Film adaptation: In the works

7) LUCY SAXTON

lucysaxton

  • Age when debut novel sold: 17
  • Debut novel: TAKE BACK THE SKIES
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury
  • Route to publication: Literary agent

8) CAYLA KLUVER

tumblr_static_legacy-trilogy

  • Age when debut novel published: 15
  • Debut novel: LEGACY
  • Publisher: Self-published, then Harlequin Teen
  • Route to publication: Self-publishing

9) KAT ZHANG

tumblr_mde6x1Fppe1r0x68m

  • Age when debut novel published: 19
  • Debut novel: THE HYBRID CHRONICLES
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Route to publication: Literary Agent

10) ALICE OSEMAN

alice oseman

  • Age when debut novel published: 19
  • Debut novel: SOLITAIRE
  • Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books
  • Route to publication: Literary Agent

Keep writing. Don’t become so determined to snag a book deal that you rush the process of learning and growing. Instead, write because you can’t not write—then you can move on to submitting to professionals when it’s time.

Who knows? You could become the next teen author I add to this list!

(PS: If you are an aspiring teen author and would like to grow in your craft and boost chances of publication, check out this creative writing mentorship program I created just for you!)

[bctt tweet=”10 Teen Authors who Landed Book Deals by @tessaemilyhall #amwriting #teenwriters” via=”no”]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

5 Fun Writing Exercises for Teens to Spark Creativity and Develop Writing Voice

Thanks to my past teen self, I will never run out of book ideas. I spent those years writing pages of book/scene/character ideas—much of which were birthed through exercises that not only sparked my creativity, but developed my writing voice as well.

[bctt tweet=”5 Fun Writing Exercises for Teens to Spark Creativity and Develop Writing Voice #yalitchat #amwriting @tessaemilyhall “]

Here are 5 of my favorite writing exercises for teens that can spark creativity and develop writing voice:

1. Write fan-fiction.

Have you ever reached the end of a book and wished that it would continue? Or maybe you didn’t like the way it ended and would like to create an alternate one.

Whatever the case, fan fiction is a great way to expand your imagination, establish your writing voice, and have fun with your favorite characters and settings.

2. Participate in writing prompts.

On my blog, Christ is Write, I host a bi-weekly writing prompt contest for teens just like you.

My favorite prompts come from songs and photographs. In fact, the setting of my novel, PURPLE MOON, was inspired by a picture I came across of mountains outlining a lake.

As a teen, I spent my free time listening to my iPod on shuffle and writing a scene based on the song that played. Each time a new song came on, I would start writing a new scene.

3. Write in your journal every day.

Many authors, including Meg Cabot, proclaim that several of their story ideas come from their journals.

Try to write in your journal every day, even if it’s just a sentence. You could even try to turn one of your memories into a scene as well.

4. Write a book with a friend.

When I was a teen, my best friend and I wrote a book together. We didn’t plan the story.

Instead, we each created our own characters—so any time they would interact, we would take turns writing the dialogue. (Similar to playing Barbies, I guess you could say. 😉 )

Here’s a secret: One of my characters actually made her way into my YA novel, PURPLE MOON. (Cough, Hayden, cough.)

5. Make a list of potential book titles.

Listen to music. Read poetry. Is there a specific line that stands out?

You could also try to combine the titles of 3 of your favorite books to generate an entirely new title.

[bctt tweet=”It is now, during your teen years, that you can have fun with writing, without worrying about the career aspect of it.” #amwriting @tessaemilyhall “]

It is now, during your teen years, that you can have fun with writing, without worrying about the career aspect of it.

Keep your imagination open. Daydream often (just not during English class. Math class might be OK. — Kidding).

Take road trips, paint pictures, read books, and jot down any idea that pops into your head, no matter how bizarre.

Who knows? It might just turn into your future best-selling novel.

Any fun writing exercises for teens you’d like to add? Let me know in the comments!

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

5 Pieces of Advice for Teen Writers by Former Teen Author

Whenever someone asks if I have advice for teen writers, I tell them three things: Read, research, and write.

Read as many books as you can get your hands on.

Research the craft and industry.

And write every chance you get.

[bctt tweet=”#TeenWriter advice: Read. Research. And Write. #amwriting #teenwriters @tessaemilyhall”]

Here are 5 more pieces of advice for teen writers:

1. Attend writing conferences.

Writing conferences provide the perfect opportunity to learn about writing, network with writers, and pitch your book to professionals.

2. Study the craft.

If you want to come across as a professional, then writing must be treated like any other career. This means many hours should be invested into learning the craft.

You can do this by reading books on fiction techniques (such as Writing The Breakout Novel) and reading writing-craft blogs (such as Go Teen Writers).

3. Start a blog.

I’m very grateful I began my blog, Christ is Write, at the beginning of my writing journey. It served as a great way for me to meet other teen writers, practice my writing, and discipline myself. I was also able to build a readership even before my YA novel was published.

4. Spark your creativity through writing prompts.

Not only do writing prompts expand the imagination, but they may also trigger a new scene or book idea.

Want to participate in a writing prompt challenge and meet other teen writers? Check out my bi-monthly writing prompt contest.

5. Enter your work into contests and publish it online.

There are plenty of contests for teen writers that can help your work get noticed. You can also publish your writing on websites dedicated toward teen writers, such as Teen Ink.

Seeking more advice for teen writers? Check out these posts I’ve written just for you.

Have any advice for teen writers? Share them in the comments!

[bctt tweet=”Advice for Teen Writers by Former Teen Author @tessaemilyhall #teenwriters #amwriting #teenauthors”]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

How Can Teen Writers Become Published?

“I’m a teen writer. How can I become published?”

This is a question I’ve been asked countless times. I, too, was once a teenager who dreamt of publication.

However, I quickly discovered that many adults advise against pursuing publication as a teen.

In some ways, I agree. Publication should not become the sole reason we write, nor should anyone rush to pursue it.

But if I only treated writing as a hobby, then it would’ve never turned into my career. If I hadn’t set high goals, then I wouldn’t have had the determination to push forward.

And I wouldn’t have received a publishing contract at sixteen-years-old.

No, I don’t believe that every teen writer should seek publication. There are several disadvantages of being a teen author.

But if you are a teen who loves to write, then it only makes sense that you would want to see your story in print. Just be careful that you don’t rush the process and neglect to learn the craft.

Before I held my debut novel in my hands, I invested hours into studying the craft, learning the industry, and strengthening my writing.

And now I am passionate about encouraging other teen writers. I want to share with you secrets and tips about the craft; I want to break down the publishing process so it can become achievable.

There is no better time than your teen years to prepare for your future—and this includes your career.

[bctt tweet=”There is no better time than your teen years to prepare for your future. #teenwriters #writingtips #teenauthor”]

So can teen writers become published? Yes. It may require sacrifices, but yes, teens can become published—or at least begin walking in that direction.

That’s what this column is for. I want to guide you, Young Scribe, through the world of writing.

So if you have any questions, be sure to leave them in the comments below!

[bctt tweet=”How can teens become published? #teenwriters #amwriting #yalitchat”]