Tag: humor

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

What’s Your Season?

lighter look at a writer's life

Life consists of seasons, and, weather-wise, as I type this post, we are beginning my favorite season: fall.

I live in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, where fall colors are beautiful and abundant this time of year. I would put our fall foliage up against any in the entire world. A couple days a week, I cross a mountain to work at another campus, and the scenery is breathtaking once the calendar turns to October. My wife and I got married in mid-October at the season’s peak, and our wedding pictures are even more special with the brilliant colors in the background.

Next comes winter. I am not really a fan of that one. The brilliant colors eventually go away, and we’re left with barren trees and gray landscapes. Add in snow and freezing temperatures, and I am not crazy about it. The winters here have been fairly mild the last few years, so spring weather comes sooner with its promise of warmer temps and green returning to the foliage.

We won’t even talk about summer. Extreme heat is not my friend. Let’s just say I’m in a relationship with air conditioning, and it is serious.

What about real, everyday life? Do we go through seasons? Absolutely.

If I had to name the season my family and I have been going through lately, I would call it “rough.” I will spare you the details, but it has been comparable to a long winter. I am not complaining, because I know three basic truths: (1) I am still blessed beyond measure; (2) God is still in control; (3) seasons like this one don’t last forever.

Writing falls into this idea of seasons as well. Some writing seasons are full  and creative, when the ideas and the contracts are flying like the leaves flying off the trees. Other seasons are a bit barren, when creativity is hard and the words and contracts aren’t coming. The advice I have for this type of season, just like a rough patch in life, is to hold on.

Just as it can’t be fall all year long, writing can’t be on “high” level all the time. Valleys happen, and we have to learn how to live with them and deal with them. Maybe your current writing feels like it isn’t going well, but you don’t have to be stagnant. This could be the time to brush up on your skills, experiment with a different genre, or write something just for you with no plan for publication. Exercising your writing muscles even without an official assignment is valuable.

It may seem cliché, but seasons do change. Enjoy (or endure) the current season and look forward to the next. Now, let’s go play in some leaves!

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Happy Days Are Here Again

lighter look at a writer's life

A few years ago, I got to the point where I could not watch the evening news. It was just TOO MUCH, causing me to be depressed. One evening, around news time, I surfed the channels and found an oasis—one of the oldies channels showing an hour of Happy Days during my normal news time. Finally, a solution to the doom and gloom!

If you’ve been under a rock for half a century or are too young to remember, Happy Days follows the exploits of Richie Cunningham (played by Ron Howard, Opie grown up a bit) and Arthur “The Fonz” Fonzarelli (Henry Winkler) and the rest of their gang, navigating life in the late ‘50s/early ‘60s. The show debuted in 1974 during a wave of ‘50s nostalgia and lasted until 1984—my formative years.

One night during my “anti-news Happy Days mini-marathon,” I witnessed a big juxtaposition I had forgotten. The first episode of the evening was the second season finale, focusing on Richie and his pals Potsie and Ralph Malph on an overnight school field trip to Chicago. Typical of the first two seasons, the episode was on film, enhanced with a laugh track, and played out like a mini-movie.

The next episode that night was the season three premiere, and the changes were startling. Facing sagging ratings, the producers revamped the series that season, shooting on videotape in front of a live audience and placing the Fonz, previously a minor character, at the center of the action, with more broad comedy and catchphrases like “Sit on it!” The changes worked ratings-wise, as Happy Days soon became the number-one show on television and remained near the top for several seasons, even after Ron Howard left to become a famous film director.

I was in middle school when this change to “Fonzie and More Fonzie” took place. He was the coolest character on the planet, and my classmates and I wanted to be like him. I even had a “I’m with the Fonz” t-shirt with a depiction of his “thumbs-up” pose.

Seeing the stark differences in tone from one episode to the next made me think of such changes in writing direction. When I began writing and pursuing publication, I was firmly in the fiction camp, planning to be the next Great American Novelist. I attended writers conferences and studied dialogue, POV, and all things fiction.

Just as Richie and Fonz and crew changed tone, God changed my direction a few years into my journey, guiding me toward writing devotions and other inspirational essays. Back in the day, I remember the new Happy Days took some getting used to, and my new “Carlton devotions” felt the same. I did learn that some of the things I studied in fiction writing—the aforementioned dialogue and POV, among other techniques—have made me a better writer of inspirational essays. Setting a scene for your readers is just as important in nonfiction as it is in fiction.

What to do if God changes your writing direction? Be like the Fonz: give a thumbs up and say “AAAAYYYYY!!!!” Then Sit on It and start writing.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Keep Rolling

lighter look at a writer's life

I love quotes, motivational thoughts, words of wisdom or whatever you like to call them. The writer in me often says, “Why didn’t I think of that?” One of the nuggets that has become popular lately is, “Progress over perfection.”

This bit of wisdom can relate to our writing. While we always want to strive for perfection, we often find ourselves avoiding our work in progress because we can’t get it to the state of perfection that we desire.

This goes back to a rule of writing that we all learned early on: don’t edit as you go. Progression is an ongoing, moving process. It slows greatly if we must start and stop to edit. It is comparable to the difference in driving on the interstate and driving in a traffic jam.

 We all like to keep rolling when we are driving. It is a sense of accomplishment when we are moving on down the road. We are making progress toward our goal of arriving at our destination. We see landmarks swishing by, and nothing can stop us now.

A traffic jam causes us anxiety. We worry about the time we are wasting inching our way along.  We are mumbling about the unknowns up ahead, and we convince ourselves that we really need to go to the bathroom and are going to burst if we don’t move soon. We are still on the same road going the same direction but not gaining much ground on getting to where we are going.

The better way: if you are on a roll, keep rolling. Write words that are big and bold. Write words that are bright and colorful. Write words that you are not sure you are using correctly but sound good at the moment. Just write. There will be time later to go back and check for correct usage and over usage. There will be time to correct grammar and punctuation. There will be time to work on perfection, but, for now, progression is the goal.

By the way, it’s ok to take a bathroom break as needed.

Sue Davis Potts is a freelance writer from Huntingdon, Tennessee. She is mother to her beautiful adult daughter, Jessa. Sue enjoys writing for both children and adults. She worked for years as a preschool teacher but feels most at home these days with other writers who speak her language. She has been published in local magazines, anthologies, Ideals, Southern Writer’s Magazine and Focus on the Family’s children’s magazines Clubhouse and Clubhouse, Jr.

She authored a children’s library book.  She is the author of a book of short motivations 101 Life Lessons From Uno (The One-Legged Duck) and coauthored. The Priceless Life (The Diane Price Story). Both books are available on Amazon. Sue can be found on her website, www.suedavispotts.com.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Flow or Struggle?

lighter look at a writer's life

Imagine with me for a moment: it’s a Monday night, the last night before your Almost An Author deadline the next day. Panic sets in as you open a blank document on your laptop.

The blank page mocks you and dares you to fill it with something meaningful for your tens of readers. What to write? How to fill this menacing blankness?

In the back of my mind, I get a germ of an idea, something that had happened to me weeks earlier with one of my students (It’s a bonus when you’re both a WRITER and a TEACHER, as students provide a plethora of ideas).

Yeah, I’ll write about that funny encounter. But what would be the point, the takeaway? I decided to start writing and let that emerge.

What happened next was a miracle: the words  . . . and puns (important if you write humor) . . . flowed. I entertained myself as I weaved the experience with funny asides and an eventual solid takeaway. The idea changed a bit as I wrote the piece, but the basic gist of it remained.

Wow, this one was easy, I said to myself. I wish they all flowed this way.

The truth is, it rarely is this easy. That whole “words flowing like water down a hill” doesn’t happen very often. Writing is truly hard work, and often I find myself pulling out what little hair I have (trust me, there’s not much) trying to come up with a topic and then trying to flesh out said topic.

When the writing flows easily? Be thankful for the moment.

When you are stuck in every way and worrying about your deadline? Be thankful then, too. Writing is a gift, and  gifts are hard to deal with sometimes. We struggle, we write, we rewrite. Hopefully, at the end of the process, there’s a gem of a piece waiting for the world to consume.

You have just read the latest one. Not sure it’s much of a gem, but I did pull it out of my mind, filled a blank page with it, and submitted it on deadline. Score!

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Pop go the Pop References!

lighter look at a writer's life

I teach Public Speaking to college and high school students, and one thing we talk about is “Shared Meaning.” When you are trying to relate to an audience, you must strive for a mutual understanding of things you are talking about in your speech. Shared Meaning is just as important in writing as it is in speaking. I am currently learning and experiencing this issue with my much-younger students.

When I have a rather large class, as I do this semester, I play an icebreaker game, in which students must ask each other basic questions, like the following:

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?

What’s your favorite time of the year?

What’s your favorite TV show?

That last question is the point where it has gotten dicey this semester. Students are encouraged to ask me these same questions, and one inquired about my favorite TV show. I don’t watch much current TV at all, so my answer is always the same: my all-time favorite is I Love Lucy.

DISCLAIMER: Even though I am much older than my students, I was NOT ALIVE during I Love Lucy’s initial run. I have always watched it in reruns, on tape, or on DVD (see, I am old, but not THAT old).

The student wrote my answer on his paper and then delivered the dagger to my heart with his reply: “Hmmm, never heard of that one!”

NEVER heard of that one? NEVER felt the joy of the Vitameatavegimin routine? NEVER bent over double from laughing at the candy factory episode? NEVER heard Lucy cry “WAHHHHH?” I.Can’t.Even.

I decided to poll my other classes, and, out of all of them, ONE student had heard of and watched I Love Lucy. I guess I need to reserve my place at the Old Folks Village ASAP. Maybe I can get a part in those “People Becoming Their Parents” insurance commercials.

I wanted to know something my students currently watch, and they mentioned the show Stranger Things. I know just a smidge about that show: it’s on Netflix, it’s about the ’80s, and it brought back the song “Running Up That Hill,” which I didn’t like in the ’80s and certainly don’t like now. Get off my lawn!

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Please don’t suggest I watch Stranger Things. It’s not my cup of tea, I will never watch it, so maybe you can tell me your favorite I Love Lucy episode instead.

The lesson here? In speaking and in writing, KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE. In my day job, I work with mostly teenagers—I probably don’t need to make references to I Love Lucy, E.T., or Jessie’s Girl when I am speaking to them. If I’m writing a piece geared toward younger people, I need to find out what they relate to and address those things. What’s hip and “with it” right now?

Um, maybe I need to reword that last remark.

If I am addressing a “more mature” audience (of which I am a part), I can include references to the “oldies but goodies” of pop culture. They are my people and know who Jenny is and her phone number, who shot J.R., and who and what hit Marcia to make her say “Oh, my nose!”

If you don’t know those references, I am sorry. Really sorry. Grab your sippy cup and watch an episode of Bluey. Yes, miraculously, I have heard of that show.

Now, give me your pop culture references. Hit me with your best shot.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Taming the Inner Copyeditor

lighter look at a writer's life

“Your the best!”

“Let’s go over their.”

“The Smith’s”

Are you cringing? I am.

Welcome to my world. Am I the only one who notices every misspelling and/or grammar mistake?

I can be driving in the car and notice such errors on signs and billboards. I can be passing through a neighborhood and find issues with various displays. Don’t even get me started about social media posts.

Being an observant copyeditor is both a blessing and a curse.

When I am writing my own pieces or editing someone else’s work, my ability to spot errors comes in handy. When I am reading someone’s social media post or fancy sign and see mistakes, I have to fight the urge to correct everything. It’s a constant struggle.

I attribute (blame?) my copyediting skills to one of my school teachers. He taught me everything from eighth grade English to Journalism to senior Honors English to college freshman composition. His teaching style? Pound grammar and punctuation rules into the students, showing no mercy. It wasn’t always pretty, but I came out of it with a keen knowledge of where commas go and don’t go, how to use a semicolon, and which verb tense to use in any situation.

Moving on to college, I majored in print and broadcast journalism, continuing my adventures in grammar. Professors marveled at my grasp of these principles. I could barely do math, but, if you handed me a piece of writing to critique, I was in my element.

I pursued a career as a college professor, using my copyediting skills every day, much to the dismay of many of my students.

For several years I served as the student newspaper adviser, and, by the time an issue was printed, I was sick of it because I had read it over and over and over in an effort to catch each and every error, with one or two always slipping by.

DISCLAIMER: I do not judge friends and family for grammar miscues. They do happen, especially with AutoCorrect and other tools in this electronic age. I am just saying I am sensitive to them, much like some people are sensitive to smells while others respond to certain sounds.

The next time you see something listed as “For Sell,” think of me and the other copyeditors who can’t help but notice such things. Copyeditors, UNTIE! Um, I mean . . . UNITE!

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Where’s the Light?

lighter look at a writer's life

There’s a story of a family whose electricity went out one night. The various children tried to maneuver in the dark, searching for any type of light source—candles, flashlights, matches, etc.—to dispel the darkness. 

One of the younger kids perked up and said, “I know what we can do! Let’s open the refrigerator! Then we’ll have light!” 

The family members had a good laugh at the young child’s expense, as even a refrigerator is not much at providing light in such a situation. 

It’s a funny little story, and it reminds me of the importance of light in dark spaces. 

We live in a dark world, and, I don’t know what you think, but, in my opinion, it is getting darker and darker every day. However, even in the midst of all the darkness, the light can still shine through.  

That’s where we, those who are called to write, come into play. When I get discouraged and feel like giving up on this writing thing, I am reminded it is my duty to shine light in the dark places. 

My wife and I live next door to her mother, and we often visit at night and must walk back to our house in the dark. There’s a small stretch of the walkway that has no light, and I always use my phone’s flashlight to illuminate the way. It’s amazing what impact a small amount of light has on the darkness. In turn, it is amazing what impact a small amount of inspiration has on an ever-darkening world. 

Will an article here, a blog post there, and an occasional devotion really shine enough light to matter? Absolutely. Like my phone’s flashlight on that pathway, sometimes a small dose of encouragement goes a long way. How many times has such a piece of writing come your way when you needed it most? It’s countless times for me. 

I challenge you today: instead of looking for light by opening the refrigerator, sit down in the chair and produce some light—some inspiration, some encouragement—to illuminate your corner of the world. 

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Sunnyside Up

lighter look at a writer's life

“Walking on Sunshine”

“You are my Sunshine”

“Keep on the Sunny Side”

Okay, which one are you singing right now? We like sunshine and apparently songs about sunshine. There are a bunch of them. We like activities in the sun. We like feeling the warmth and seeing the light. To quote John Denver, “Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy.”

How much sunshine is in your writing? I mostly write nonfiction, but I know that Snoopy wasn’t the only fiction writer that had to write about a dark and stormy night. Nonfiction writers also write about true situations that are not always pleasant. However, there are ways to add sunshine to every genre of writing.

Add Humor.

A funny character or tongue in cheek example can go a long way in making a serious topic a little less dark. A favorite laugh inducer is when the joke is on the writer. We all have those days when we need to laugh at ourselves so we might as well make our readers laugh too.

Add Literal Sunshine.

Let your characters feel the sunshine on their shoulders or see the ray of light shining through the window. Let every terrible situation have a bright spot such as a pleasant memory or a hand holding friend. If you are writing nonfiction don’t make things up just to lighten the mood this is not the time to call things that are not as though they were. Just dig a little deeper to find the light.

Add Hope.

There are a lot of dark evil things being written and published as good right now. As Christian writers we have the responsibility to be the light. The piece we are writing may not have anything to do with Christianity at all. It might be a “how to” piece on how to put together a bookshelf but we can be positive and enthusiastic as the reader stares at the thingamajigs and whatchacallits. Of course, any time we can we need to share the ultimate hope that we have in Jesus. He is the Light!

Are you ready to take a lighter look at your writing? Are you ready to let your little light shine? I believe you can do it. Go ahead and as you are writing and singing, “Let the sunshine in.”

Sue Davis Potts is a freelance writer from Huntingdon, Tennessee. She is mother to her beautiful adult daughter, Jessa.

Sue enjoys writing for both children and adults. She worked for years as a preschool teacher but feels most at home these days with other writers who speak her language. She has been published in local magazines, anthologies, Ideals, Southern Writer’s Magazine and Focus on the Family’s children’s magazines Clubhouse and Clubhouse, Jr.

She authored a children’s library book.  She is the author of a book of short motivations 101 Life Lessons From Uno (The One-Legged Duck) and coauthored. The Priceless Life (The Diane Price Story). Both books are available on Amazon. Sue can be found on her website, suedavispotts.com

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

WRTR, UR SPECIAL

lighter look at a writer's life

Ahhh, Valentine’s Day . . . the holiday of love.

Does it make you have warm feelings? Or queasy, sickening feelings?

The other day, I saw a Valentine candy display. I think it was actually before Christmas, because retail stores now jump the gun on every holiday. I’m expecting Fourth of July merchandise to appear any day now.

I spied what used to be one of my favorite treats as a child: conversation hearts. You know, the little heart-shaped mounds of sugar with sweet sayings like “Luv U,” “Be Mine,” and, more recently, “Text Me.”

That got me thinking, which is a dangerous thing: what if we had conversation hearts specifically geared toward writers? Considering the rejections, long hours of toiling alone over pieces, and tortuous rounds of editing, we writers could use a little love. Sweet candy bites with sayings pertaining to our craft might be the encouragement we need to keep going.

I decided to take the idea and run with it and came up with some possible sayings for these Writerly Hearts (see if you can figure out the abbreviations):

  1. UR A GOOD WRTR
  2. LUV UR BK IDEA
  3. U GET A CNTRCT
  4. LUV MY ADVNCE
  5. NO MOR EDITS
  6. U SOLD A BK
  7. CNTRCT W/O PRPSL
  8. UR OUT OF SLSH PILE
  9. MNUSCRPT ACCPTD
  10. HAPPY 2000 WRD DAY

I think these would sell out at coffee houses and bookstores. Who’s ready to invest with me? In the meantime, encourage the writer in your life, even if it is U!

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Kids Lit

Four Ways to Add Humor to Your Picture Books

Kids Lit

Students in my second-grade classroom love reading funny books. There is a bit of science behind the attraction. Laughter increases how much air you breath in, which stimulates organs and releases endorphins that can ease tension, relieve pain, and reduce stress. Laughter also activates the release of dopamine, a brain chemical that boosts feelings of reward, motivation, and pleasure. So it’s no wonder children are draw to stories with humor. Laughter makes them feel good. That’s why often, whether it’s for a magazine or a picture book, humor sells.

If you’re not feeling funny, take heart. Humor writing can be developed by exercising your funny bone.

Word Play

A lot of humor starts with word play, a tactic often referred to as a pun. The one-liners might not get a laugh out loud reaction, but many readers appreciate their cleverness. With her popular Amelia Bedelia books, Peggy Parish wrote a whole series centered around puns.

To create these zingers, make a list of words related to your topic. Then consider the different uses for each word. Build your joke around the alternate meaning. Keep the ideas flowing and generate as many as you can, even if it’s a stretch. You can weed out the weak ones later. For example, when I had story about shoes, I considered types of shoes people might wear and generated these ideas: Plumber wear clogs. A spy wears sneakers. And doctors wear heels. I bet you could brainstorm more!

Word Choice

Face it, some words are just funnier than others. Words like snorkel, tickle, ka-pow, and chicken make me laugh every time. Sometimes you can make up funny words too. Fizzlepop. Snarkolala. Blarg. The silliness of the delivery can make it even funnier. The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak is a great example of this strategy.  This hilarious book relies totally on silly words to make the reader laugh.

To develop this skill, keep the search bar open on your internet. (You have limited choices using the synonym feature in a Word document.) When you write a story, look for synonyms for some of your plain Jane words. Read the list out loud. Listen for the words that make you smile and either make the switch or create your own similar-sounding word. For example, substitute chortle, giggled, or guffawed for the word laughed. Or, lollyhahachucklesnort, which I just made up.

Exaggeration

The nice thing about picture books is that the pictures tell part of the story. An artist can add humor with an over-the-top illustration. Some might consider this slapstick humor since it involves a kind of physical action instead of words. A good example of this type of humor can be seen in the exaggerated character expressions in Mo Williams Elephant and Piggie illustrations. Elephant doesn’t cry. He weeps. He isn’t angry. He explodes. I believe it’s the pictures, not the text, that makes those books fly off the shelves.

But what if you’re not an artist? Outrageous comparisons can create hilarious images in the reader’s head. I’ve used word pictures like ‘an octopus in roller skates’ and a ‘crazed Doberman in bubble wrap’ to add a touch of humor.

To develop this skill, find any comparisons you write in your story. Then visualize something that captures the same emotion you’re trying to convey in the most unusual way possible by thinking–what’s crazier than that? Take it to the extreme. As before, generate as many ideas as you can and keep the best.

Crazy Foils

Warner Brother’s classic cartoon Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote builds all its humor on Coyote’s plans going awry. No matter how clever his trap, it always fails in a hilarious way. Several popular picture books use this backfire approach. Growing up, one of my favorites was Jon Stone’s Monster at the End of this Book. In it, a character named Grover doesn’t want the reader to keep turning pages. I laughed as I blew past brick walls and other obstacles Grover used to try and stop me. We see a similar give-and-take with the audience in Mo Williams Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus. No matter how much the Pigeon argues, the reader turns him down.

Writing this kind of humor is situational. Similar to slapstick humor, the author must consider not just ordinary arguments or obstacles, but outrageous ones. And the foil can’t be simple either—it has to have exaggerated responses. For Wile E., he not only falls off a cliff, an anvil lands on him. For Grover, not only does the brick wall collapse, he gets covered with concrete and mess. For Pigeon, he becomes increasingly irate.

To develop this skill, look for situations that can be turned around. For example, the child does not want to sleep. Create a list of obstacles to going to bed. Generate as many wild hurdles ideas as you can, then weed out the weaker ones. Put them in increasingly dramatic order so that the stakes get upped with every page turn. The story practically writes itself!

There are many other methods of adding humor to your story. Next month, I’ll explore a few more. In the meantime, why not try out a few if the ideas I mentioned? Remember, even if you’ve never written humor before, it can be learned. You might fall on your face a few times. But laugh it off and keep trying.

Lori Z. Scott, teacher and author, writes fiction because she’s like an atom. She makes everything up. She also has two quirky habits: chronic doodling and lame joke telling. Neither one impresses her boss, but they still somehow inspired Lori to accidentally create a ten-title bestselling children’s book series and on purpose write over 175 other publications. She continues penning stories as an excuse to not fold her laundry. Find her silly drawings, poems, and whatnot on Instagram @Lori.Z.Scott and look for her debut YA novel Inside the Ten-Foot Line coming October 2022.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

You Never Know

lighter look at a writer's life

I love writing conferences. If you have been reading this blog for very long, you already know that, because I have written about them many, many times.

I love the camaraderie of those with like minds. I love learning new things about writing and the publishing industry. I love eating in the cafeteria and pretending it is summer camp with all my friends.

Today I am thinking about the opportunities provided during the one-on-one appointments with editors, publishers, and the like. I love those, too, for you never know what’s going to happen and when God is going to open a door from a seemingly random encounter.

At the conference I attended this year, I signed up for two appointments with people I really wanted to talk to. SCORE! The rule with this conference states you’re allowed two appointments during the initial sign-up period—which is a free-for-all, by the way. It’s a good thing it’s a Christian conference, or else there would be pushing, shoving, and cage matches.

After that initial wrestling match—er, signup period—you are allowed to go back the next morning for additional appointments if there are open slots left. Not one to ignore an extra opportunity, I always go back to check the appointment sheets. This year, I signed up for my third appointment with a writer/editor I didn’t really know, but, when she introduced herself at the group meeting, she said she was looking for parenting articles.

I recently co-authored a devotional book, Adventures in Fatherhood, about . . . PARENTING, so I thought, why not talk to this person?

It turned out to be a divine appointment. At our meeting, she grabbed my book and screamed “I LOVE IT!” We discussed her editorial needs, and she suggested I send copies of the book to contacts at an organization she once worked for and still does some consulting. I won’t mention the name of the organization, but they do have a keen focus.

Back home, I stood in the valley of decision. Did I really want to send someone a book out of the blue? Wouldn’t that seem a bit weird? Have I ever denied that I am weird? Don’t answer that last question.

I took the plunge and sent the books, because you never know. That phrase has become my theme for seeking writing opportunities: it just might be a God-thing. You never know unless you try.

After I put the copies in the mail, my school year started, and my schedule was full. I had forgotten I had sent the books until, a few weeks later, I got an email from a representative of the organization. He and his staff LOVED the book and wanted to discuss freelance opportunities with me and my co-author.

Say what? A person gets a random book and likes it? And wants me to write some more? DOUBLE SCORE!

Lesson learned: take the opportunity. Try, even it seems random. After all, nothing is random with God.

You never know.

Carlton

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Read All About It

lighter look at a writer's life

I had a post due today, but I was reading.

I mean, for a writer, isn’t that a good excuse? If we are going to be good writers and hone our craft, shouldn’t we be reading? Isn’t that the point?

I know . . . it is just an excuse, but it is a good one. A friend of mine recently released a book, and I dug into it this weekend. Today is Saturday. I read from the evening into the night on Thursday and Friday. I did not get to read during the daytime hours because of that little thing called MY DAY JOB. If I could have taken the book with me on those days, I would have (Shhhh, do not tell my boss.).

I have read most of the day today and am almost finished with the book (which is wonderful, by the way). I decided to take a break to rest my eyes. In a quiet moment, I thought, Oh, I have a post due.

What to write about? Reading! After all, as a kid, I learned READING IS FUNDAMENTAL. What I would really like to talk about is reading to support a friend.

I know what it’s like to be a writer, to open that vein and release everything on paper. I know what it’s like to be a published writer, to wonder (1) if anyone is reading the book and (2) if anyone is enjoying the book.

The writing community, especially the Christian writing community, is a big family, and family members support each other. When family members face rejection and have a hard time, we need to be there to cheer them up or to be a shoulder to cry on. When family members experience success and get published, we need to celebrate with them . . . and read their stuff.

I cannot say I am perfect in doing this. Like many of you, my “To-Be-Read” pile threatens to overtake my bedstand, and many of those titles are books from my friends. Slowly but surely, I am making my way through them and will even try to leave reviews online, if possible. More importantly, I will reach out to them to let them know (1) I read their books and (2) I enjoyed their work (My friends are great writers, I just know it).

That’s the least a friend—no, family member—can do.

(I just wrote that line hours after I wrote the rest of this post; hey, I had to finish the book!)

Carlton

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Conferences over, Now What?

lighter look at a writer's life

I’ve been to two writers conferences (one in-person, one virtual) in the last few weeks, and, boy, is my brain tired.

The in-person conference was literally a breath of fresh air, as I emerged from the quarantine/lockdown cocoon into my true form as a social butterfly. It was great seeing so many friends in one place and catching up after a long two years away. Oh yeah, there were classes and appointments as well, which were all valuable.

I didn’t get to participate in all of the sessions of the online conference due to some different concerns, but what I did get to hear was extremely helpful. I got practical tips for continuing my writing journey and inspiration for what lies ahead.

Now comes the FUN part: the conference follow-ups. I’m SO excited and SO ambitious about the work ahead. I believe I have mentioned before that sarcasm is my love language . . . along with chocolate, but that’s another blog post.

I always have good intentions: return those emails; write those new proposals; respond to those invitations to write blogs, articles, etc. But then life happens. There’s stuff to do for my day job; housework; people to help in my own backyard. Plus, all those games of Spider Solitaire and Word Crossy aren’t going to play themselves, you know.

In the past, I have been the King of Procrastination, but I am making progress. I have already made email contact for a prospective blog writing assignment (Shhhhh, don’t tell the A3 people!) and worked on two different proposals. I once heard that editors don’t hear back from over half of the people they meet at conferences, and I don’t want to be in that number. I want to be that one who makes contact and follows through, even if it means rejection. I won’t know until I try, right?

I’m setting aside tomorrow to finish those proposals and to make some more email contacts. Right after the Andy Griffith Show marathon.

Old habits die hard, people.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Over-Preparing?

lighter look at a writer's life

As I write this, I’m getting ready to attend my first in-person writers conference in two years. I have been so busy planning and packing, I nearly forgot to write this post. I am thankful for social media reminders!

I feel a bit like an alien, preparing to land on a new planet. Can anyone relate? It has been so long since I have been able to gather with others and socialize, I don’t quite know how to act.

When I started packing, I selected enough clothes to spend about two weeks away (Did I mention I’ll be gone for three days?). After I weeded down the clothes, I started thinking about the additional things I would need, like notepads, pens, my computer, and, of course, snacks. Again, I over-thought everything, so I needed to cut down to a manageable number of items. At the rate I was going, I would have looked like the Beverly Hillbillies trucking down the highway with all sorts of things hanging off the vehicle.

Finally, I thought about those minor details—one sheets, writing samples, business cards. Actually, those are IMPORTANT things! Like I said, it’s been a looonnng time since I have attended such an event, so I’m bit rusty.

The more I have thought about this conference, the more I realize the truth of what I tell first-time attendees when I teach the “Newbie” class at another event. The most important thing about a writers conference: the people.

The relationships you make with the people at a conference are vital, everlasting. Book projects come and go, but your friendships will last much longer. I found my agent by hanging out during breaks (we were friends long before I became his client). I have bonded over cookies in the cafeteria. I have spent nights laughing and catching up over ice cream. (Yes, most of my special moments include food). I met the co-author of my book in the appointment sign-up room. I wish I could list all of the friends I have made at writers conferences, but there isn’t enough space.

These friends not only understand what it’s like to be a writer (and to struggle at times), but they have stood by me through the ups and downs of life.

So, I am not going to worry so much about the clothes, the electronics, and the writing stuff (though those things are important) as I prepare for the conference. I am going to anticipate hugs (!) and special times with my friends.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

What Do You Write?

lighter look at a writer's life

It’s almost SWCS, or Summer Writers Conference Season, for those of you who don’t know. I attended my first writers conference years ago and have attended many of them since. At that first one, I learned something right away.

When you sit down next to anyone at a writers conference, there will always be a basic first question.  You might think it would be, “What is your name?” Not so, because you’re most likely going to be wearing some form of ungainly nametag, so that information will be clear.

No, the first question will be: “What do you write?”

I have been asked that question when I sat down for meals, classes, and for a break outside. New friends, old friends, famous authors, and not-so-famous authors have inquired this information from me. I have probably even been asked this question in the bathroom, although I don’t remember a specific instance (Plus, men’s rooms at writers conference tend to be less populated than ladies rooms).

Last year, I taught at the virtual Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, and I was amazed at the discussions in the chat feature. Attendees interacted much as they would have at a live conference, and people still constantly asked . . . you got it . . . “What do you write?”

As I gear up to attend such events this year (one virtual, one live), I have thought of some creative, off-the-wall answers to the classic question, just to spice things up a bit. So here goes.

“What do you write?”…

“Feline nonfiction novels.”

“Amish speculative fiction. Watch out, Martha, there’s something in the butter!”

Look around suspiciously and whisper, “I can’t talk about it in public.”

“Your Best Quarantine Life Now: Changing Your Pajama Pants More Than Twice a Week.”

“Amish romantic suspense. Watch thy back, Levi.”

“A new devotional book, 365 Days with Teenagers. 100 stories about sleeping in, 100 stories about not cleaning your room, 100 stories about junk food. I don’t know about the other 65—I’ll do that tomorrow. Or someday.”

“A Quarantine Cookbook: Making Meals Out of Butter Crackers, Cheese, Peanut Butter, and Old Chocolate Chips Found in the Cabinet.”

“Amish Dystopian Teenage Romance: No Hunger Games with MY Bread, Sarah.”

“I don’t want to tell, because I’m afraid someone will steal my idea. But I have printed out my work in three hardback notebooks and have them with me.”

Hopefully you can tell my tongue is firmly in my cheek. On a serious note, if you do attend a writers conference and are asked this question, be yourself and talk confidently about your work.

Martha and Levi would not want it any other way.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Romancing Your Story

Humoring Your Romance

I always say that a book that can make me laugh and cry is an outstanding book that will remain in my memory. I believe this is because a book like this evokes strong emotions within me – emotions that create two of the strongest emotional reactions.

As a romance writer, I think it’s easier to make readers cry than laugh in a romance story. Maybe that’s because I don’t consider myself to be a very funny person and so I don’t make an effort to put humor in my romance stories. However, as I have been working on my future novel, I found a touch of humor flowing naturally in one scene and later, through one character.

Therefore, I decided to explore how to write humor in a novel. I wanted to be sure these little humorous aspects in my romance novel would be written properly and well received by my readers. Of course, one of the first things I found was advice on reading romance novels that include humor.

Though I am not well-read in romance stories that include humor, I found one romance novelist that made me laugh and thoroughly enjoy her romance stories. Her name is Jen Turano, and she uses humor through her characters, whether it’s built into their quirky personality or things that they do. These seem to be two of the most suggested and, possibly, the easiest to write.

Other humor writing options include juxtaposition, hyperbole, alliteration, or an exaggeration from your own life experience. As writers, we often use metaphors, and one idea was to create a list of metaphors for something then use the most ridiculous one. However, this example was also issued with a warning not to use this trick too often or your readers may think you aren’t good at using metaphors. There was also mention of simply playing with your words.

When writing humor into your novel, think about your sentence construction. Stand-up comics generally use longer more descriptive sentences at first, while painting the picture. Then as they approach the punchline, their sentences become shorter and punchier.

The most important thing when attempting to add humor into your romance is to read what you write out loud, which can help you determine whether what you wrote is really funny or not.

Adding a little humor to your romance can add a sense of fun to your story, make an intense scene more bearable, lighten the mood, or allow your characters or readers a moment to breathe. Humor is a great way to connect with your readers or add a spark of fun to your romance.

Kelly F. Barr lives in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. She is married and has three sons. She writes historical romance. She has also been a blogger for ten years, and every Friday, you can find her Flash Fiction stories posted for your reading pleasure. She loves her family, including the family dog, books, walks, and chai lattes.

You can find her online at:

Website: https://kellyfbarr.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kellyb_26

Facebook: Kelly F. Barr, Writer

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

What to Write?

lighter look at a writer's life

It was Sunday. I woke up fairly early (that’s 8 or 8:30 for me) and looked at the date. January 24.

What a minute—what? I was shaken fully awake by the realization that the next day, January 25, was Almost An Author Blog Post Deadline Day.

Cue the music . . . duh-duh-duh!

What am I going to do? What I am going to write about? Will they fire me by ending a sentence with preposition?

I got up and wrote a thrilling, deep post.

Okay, that’s not true. I got up, got dressed, ate breakfast, headed off to church. The mysterious, “what’s it gonna be” post was in the back of my mind, but I concentrated on the worship and the message. The thought that I had a blog post due in 24 hours drifted away.

I came home, ate lunch, and settled in my recliner. That’s when the thought came back.

Oh, no, A3 deadline next day. WHAT AM I GOING TO WRITE ABOUT?

I didn’t grab my laptop to punch out perfect prose. I did what I usually do when I am at a loss for words and ideas: I took a walk. As I strolled down my country road, I felt led to look up.

Some background: I live in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, one of the most beautiful places on earth, but I often take it for granted. On this particular day, it was a bit chilly and overcast, not ideal for scenery with the barren winter, but I looked up.

That’s when I saw it, a glimpse of God’s amazing beauty. The mountains were there above me in all their majesty, still snowcapped from a weather system earlier in the week. The scene was framed by  pine trees that were full along with some of the bare trees mixed in, intertwining to highlight the artistry.

I drank in the scene for a few minutes, and, of course, took a picture with my phone (Yes, I am THAT person). I continued my walk and felt a catch in my spirit—something to write about (There’s that preposition thing again).

My advice to you, writer stuck for words and ideas, is to look up. Sometimes, stepping away from the work and looking up to see the beauty around us are what we need. For many of us that can be hard to do, but the reward is great.

God’s beauty is there if we seek it, making it possible to share with others, whether it be through a painting, a photo, or words on the page.

It may even be through a blog post that was almost late.

Editor’s Note: Wonderful advice, but I’ll be watching for those prepositions! (Actually, it’s perfectly acceptable grammar to end a sentence with a preposition. So don’t worry.)

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

What Was Your Childhood Dream?

lighter look at a writer's life

“God hears and remembers your childhood dreams.”

I read this phrase on a social media post by author Angela Hunt, and it resonated with me. The more I think about it, “story” has been a part of my life since childhood.

I was an only child, so, when my cousins weren’t around, I had to entertain myself. I would spend hours in my room alone, acting out stories with my stuffed animals and action figures. I loved comic books and would often finish one and then dream up scenarios to continue the plotline. When my cousins were around, I often led our pretend adventures (one that involved us using my closet as the Batcave didn’t end well, but that’s a long, complicated story for another time).

My storytelling tendencies continued into my middle and high school years, as, when I was an eighth grader, I was asked to join the high school newspaper staff. I became editor as a sophomore and continued through to graduation. I also appeared in some plays along the way, as my outgoing (a.k.a. loud) nature did not go unnoticed.

When it came time for college, I decided to double-major in radio-tv broadcasting and print journalism. I already had a lot of experience with print, and I figured television would be a good outlet for my dramatic tendencies and storytelling. I was active with the college station, hosting talk shows, doing news reports, and serving as the weatherman. I still can’t tell a cold front from a cold snap, but it was fun at the time.

College graduation day came, and tv stations did not beat down my door. The audacity! Dan Rather had nothing to worry about.

I ended up going to graduate school and eventually became a college professor. Not the path I had planned, but, looking back, God knew what He was doing. The subjects I teach—Interpersonal Communication, Basic Public Speaking, Journalism—allow a “ham” like me to be the center of attention to tell lots of stories as they relate to the curriculum. Engaging with students through story has been a joy from day one.

God wasn’t quite through yet, though. Several years ago, He called me to write for Him, to tell His story in my unique, often wacky, way. Then, during the darker days of 2020 pandemic lockdown (during which my first book was published, by the way), God birthed something new, harking back to the dreams of my childhood and formative years. Since I couldn’t connect in person with the kids in my children’s ministry, I started doing videos and posting them on social media.

I developed some truly crazy characters who tell the stories of Scripture in their own unique way. I initially shared the videos on our church’s social media pages, but one day I shared one on my personal page. The response was phenomenal, something only God could do. My stories now reach as many adults as children, and my childhood “story dreams” have come true, in a totally different way than what I had planned.

God didn’t forget that only child with the overactive imagination. He hasn’t forgotten you, either. Just don’t use your closet as the Batcave.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

National (What?) Month

lighter look at a writer's life

As you are reading this, it is December, the last month in the slog that has been 2020. Many of you have just finished Nanowrimo, or National Novel Writing Month (for those of you who have eluded this illustrious event).

Writers around the country commit to writing an ENTIRE NOVEL during the month of November. There’s even a website, an accountability program, and more. Writing can be stressful, especially in these times, but, hey, let’s write a book in an entire month!

November is typically a hectic month for me, which I’ll discuss below, and that’s why I have never participated in Nanowrimo. Until this year. Sort of.

I have written some fiction, but my current focus has been devotional writing. I have been kicking around some ideas for new devotional books, so I decided to work on one of those during November. I guess you could call it “Nadevowrimo.” Has a certain ring to it, don’t you think? Seriously, I don’t think I’ll be starting a new trend any time soon, but it worked for me, for a while.

I figured if I wrote one devotion every day except Sunday (I need rest, y’all!), I’d have a good start on a new book by the end of November. The commitment of writing one piece a day would certainly help my discipline, wouldn’t it?

I am a teacher, and November tends to be “crunch time” as we barrel toward the end of the fall semester. Add virus concerns to that mix, and it has been even more intense, as my administration encouraged teachers to finish as much of our class work as we could by Thanksgiving break.

I am the Operation Christmas Child (OCC) coordinator at my church and one of the county coordinators in my area. At the beginning of November, I supervise the packing of a ton of shoeboxes, and then, the week before Thanksgiving, I oversee a drop-off center, where other churches, groups, and individuals bring their boxes to us. My fellow church members and I are then responsible for collecting them and transporting them to the Regional Drop-Off Center an hour away.

So, I wrote religiously for the first two weeks of November. Then OCC Week hit simultaneously with the new guidelines for wrapping up my semester at school, and what happened to Nadevowrimo? It flew out the window.

You know what? That’s okay.

For two weeks, I was disciplined. For two weeks, I got a lot of writing done. As I write this post, there is a week and a half left in the month, and I plan to “climb back on the horse” next week. Instead of beating myself up about missing some days, I’m celebrating what I did accomplish and looking forward.

Another thing about this experiment: I didn’t particularly like the stuff I wrote. There were times I wanted to close up the laptop, quit writing, and eat a package of cookies. Then I realized: programs like Nanowrimo are all about FIRST DRAFTING, getting the thoughts out of the mind and on the page. For me, it wasn’t about quality or even quantity. It was about roughing out those ideas to give me plenty to work with when I am ready to complete the project.

Now, I still want to eat an entire package of cookies, but only for fuel to give the strength to keep writing.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Guest Posts

10 Tips to Ruin Your Book and Lose Your Readership

Writing your book should be something that the author finds interesting. However, in the long run, you aren’t writing the book for yourself. You’re writing it for your audience, which you aren’t a part of. This means that you need to offer them something worth their time and attention, which can put you under a lot of pressure. Some writers crack under this pressure and start to do things that are likely to ruin the book and make them lose their readership. This is something that you have to avoid.

In the spirit of learning through examples of what NOT to do, here are ten things that will cause you to ruin your book or lose your readership.

Wait for inspiration

This is something that too many writers are guilty of. I don’t know where they got the idea that you can’t write a good book (especially fiction) without inspiration. So, they do all sorts of time-wasting gimmicks, sit on a spot, and relax while waiting for inspiration, take coffee, take a walk, etc. These are not bad by themselves, but if you’re doing them to get inspiration, then it’s a waste. The best writers don’t wait for inspiration to write. They write to get inspired. The worst part about waiting for inspiration is that it might never come, and even when the inspiration does come, it’s not a guarantee for a good novel.

Feel insecure about your writing

Good writers have learned to write without stopping to think about what they’re writing and how good or bad it is. Taking time to dwell on your writing during early drafts will only make you feel bad about it. It might start as a self-critic or inner critic, but it might quickly degenerate into fear; fear of not selling a copy, fear of people hating your work, etc. Once these thoughts start creeping in, you begin to ruin the book you’re writing.

Ignoring the craft

Every craft has its rules, structures, and techniques which must be applied to be successful. Writing isn’t any different. One of the best ways to ruin your book is to be an artistic rebel and ignore the craft. Abandon the works of previous writers before you. Listen to no critique and don’t entertain feedback. Just do whatever you want; however, you want it.

Have a chip on your shoulder

Beyond ruining your book, this is the fastest way also to ruin your career. When it comes to publication, make sure that your best tools are defiance and arrogance. No one should ever reject your manuscript. It’s an insult to you and your hard work for anyone to say no to your writing. Rebuke them publicly if you can. Perhaps you can also drag them on social media for being so short-sighted. Do all of this instead of having a rethink and then learn from their criticism of your work and improve it.

Chase the market

There’s popular publishing saying that it’s too late to join a trend once you spot it. It would be best if you ignored this saying. Get the bestselling novels and study them to find a trend. Once you notice the trend, then write your book following this trend. Be extremely market-conscious. It would help if you neglected the fact that people would’ve moved on from that trend into something else by the time you’re done writing yours.

Take shortcuts

Since you’re trying to ruin your book, taking shortcuts to everything will do you much good. The boom in e-book and increasing ease of publishing means that you can self-publish, right? So, why work with a publisher when they’re likely to reject the work after all? Get your friends to help you preview your book and get a freelance editor to edit it, and you’re good to go.

Disregard the audience of your book

You’re trying to write a bad book, so why should you care about what the audience feels or says? That should be none of your concerns. Your book is your book, regardless of whatever experience the readers get while reading it. Write it as lazily and as carefree as you possibly can. Create boring plots and make them read your chapters without actually reading anything. You might lose a few readers, but that shouldn’t be a problem. That’s the goal, right?

Break every known (and unknown) writing rule

You don’t have to give yourself to learning writing rules and how to write in the first place. You don’t owe anyone that, do you? However, should you somehow know some writing rules already, make it a point to continuously break and disregard every one of them in your novel. After all, writing is about getting creative. So, get creative even with simple things like grammatical structure and create bad writing.

Don’t ask for or pay attention to any feedback.

People have a way of making others feel bad about their works. This is done out of jealousy most of the time. (Or so the bad writer thinks.) So, don’t allow anybody to get to you by asking for their feedback. You’re an island by yourself; you don’t need anybody’s feedback. You’ll be fine on your own. You’re a champion; that’s what champions do. If people peradventure send you their feedback, ignore them. Don’t even read or listen to it at all. You have no more growing up to do.

Be a quitter

There is no shame in quitting. If things seem to be going too well with your book, you can choose to stop and if things aren’t going well either, quitting is always an option. You don’t even have to finish the novel. Writing a good book can take a long while, and you’d need to persevere through that time, but you’re an author, not a marathon athlete. Why do you need to persevere with anything?

Conclusion

It’s important to note that this article is for those looking to ruin their books and reputation as authors and don’t mind losing their readership. If you’re looking to write a great book, you should do the exact opposite of this article or look elsewhere for tips.

Leon Collier is a blogger from the UK, working for AssignmentHolic, where he provides this writing paper service. He loves to write about everything: pop culture, history, travel, self-development, education, and marketing. When not writing, you can find him behind a book or playing tabletop games with his friends. Follow him on @LeonCollier12.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Journaling, Journaling Through the Year

lighter look at a writer's life

Happy Journalversary to me!

Yes, I made up a word, but, as I write this post, it’s a very special occasion.

One year ago today, my wife and I were in Morehead, Kentucky for the Cave Run Storytelling Festival, an event I love (and missed this year). During one of the breaks, we drove into town—which is my old stomping grounds, where I attended college—to shop at CoffeeTree Books. This store brings back many memories, as it is located in a redesigned movie theater, where I saw film after film as a college student. So I enjoyed two of my favorite things: shopping for books and reminiscing about the Big ‘80s.

Anyway, I browsed book after book, and one caught my eye—One List a Day, A Three-Year Listography Journal. I looked through it and was intrigued. One question a day, asking you to list three things. That first day was “three decisions you have recently made.”

I could do this.

I checked the price and put the journal down to look at other areas of the store, but I kept going back to it. I finally decided to take the plunge and buy it before I changed my mind.

Back at the hotel, I answered that first question. The next morning, the second. And on and on. For the last year, I have kept up with the journal. Sure, I have a missed a few days here and there, but I have always caught up. THIS IS HUGE.

Now, during this period, I was laid up with an injury for two months and lived through the “COVID/Quarantine” experience. But that doesn’t dampen my achievement: I, Carlton Hughes, have journaled for ONE YEAR.

I have started and stopped countless journals through the years. I would normally follow a familiar routine: buy a neat-looking journal. Get a fancy pen. Get up each morning for one to two weeks to write in the journal. Get busy with life. Wake up late a few days. Rush to get to work/meet church obligations/do things with family. Forget the journal and eventually relegate it to the back of a bookshelf, never to be opened again.

I have quite a collection.

With my current venture, I learned that journaling, even this simple one with only three things each day, keeps creative juices flowing. I realized I had set the bar too high in previous attempts, thinking I had to write a novella of my life each day.

Plus, since I’m into the second year, it’s interesting (albeit a bit scary) to look back at how I was thinking a year ago. So far this year, my answers have reflected the current crazy world situation, so, though it is not fun now, it will be fun to look back on it in several years.

So, in the tradition of my one list a day journal, I will ask you a question: what three things come to mind when you think about journaling? Go ahead . . . I’ll wait.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Write What You Know

lighter look at a writer's life

They say to write what you know.

Have you ever wondered who they are? I think they are the same people who tell us to eat our vegetables, to use signal lights, and to not wear white after Labor Day.

Anyway, whoever they are, writing what you know is good advice. If it is a subject in which you have experience, you are more likely to be confident in your work, and your audience will likely trust you more.

For example, I could never be the author of Basic Car Repair or Technical Stuff and You. I am totally inept when it comes to such things, but, if you need advice on tools or repairs, ask my wife. I can write you a book with funny remarks in it; she can build you something. It’s how we roll.

I have been thinking of writing about what I know in these current weird times in which we are living. Some possible titles might include:

Herding Cats: Teaching Virtual Classes to High School and College Students

The Spider Solitaire King

Tubbo: An Easy Guide to Gaining Weight During a Pandemic

Oh, I Wanna Hug Somebody

Procrastination, How I Love Thee, Let Me Count the Ways . . . Tomorrow

Just One More Zoom Meeting

Sweatin’ Under My Mask

Amish Alien Abductions

(I actually made that last one up. Seriously. I know nothing.)

On a semi-serious note, writing what you know can be an effective way to reach a specific audience by sharing your experiences and knowledge. I recently co-authored a devotional, Adventures in Fatherhood, with my friend Holland Webb. We wrote stories about rearing our children and what God taught us along the way. The book has two unique perspectives.

I approached the stories from the point of view of a married man who raised his two sons alongside his wife; Holland is an adoptive single father. I could not write about raising kids on my own, as I know nothing about that, while Holland doesn’t know any other way. Hopefully different people can relate to “what we know.”

I recently received a 30-Year Service Award at the college where I teach. It will come as no surprise that I am “stewing over” ideas for a devotional about . . . you got it, teaching. It’s what I know.

So, if you are stuck about what to write, look around you. What experiences do you have that can speak to others’ lives? You might be impressed at the ideas that come.

Now, I need to get back to work. I have stories to write and classes to teach, and those Solitaire games are not going to play themselves.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate–all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Bam! Pow! Zap! Batman and Clever Writing

lighter look at a writer's life

During my senior year of college, I took a class called “Psychology of Advertising,” taught by a first-time adjunct instructor. For whatever reason, we didn’t get along. Personality clash? My impatience? His arrogant attitude? Probably all of the above.

During one class discussion, he asked everyone, “What is something that makes YOU, YOU? Something or someone who has really influenced you?”

He started at the opposite side of the room from where I sat, and I listened to the stock answers. “My parents.” “My grandparents.” “My fourth-grade teacher.” And on and on. It was all very sweet, unlike me that evening.

Now, those people in my life—parents, grandparents, teachers—have influenced me more than they will ever know. That particular day, I wasn’t feeling warm and fuzzy. Plus, I was a quite snarky 21-year-old (shocking, I know).

It came my turn. I thought deeply about something that had influenced my personality and my outlook on life.

“The TV show Batman.”

I imagined a thought bubble: BAM! I got a good, steady laugh from the rest of the students, while the teacher peered at me for what seemed like an eternity. Okay, here goes—in the doghouse again.

“I’m glad you said that!” It was the most excited he had been all semester. “Pop culture things really do influence us! We’ll definitely talk more about that soon!”

That moment eased the tension between the two of us, and we got along for the rest of the semester and had some good conversations.

That’s a really long buildup for me to revisit the appreciation I have for the WRITING on the old Batman ‘66 show. Yes, the WRITING.

I recently found the series on the Roku Channel and have been watching the third season episodes, mostly because I loved Batgirl (and wanted to marry her when I was nine). Most pundits would say that season was the point where the show went downhill creatively, but I beg to differ.

Sure, the sets were sparse, adding to the surrealism, but the plots and jokes gave an interesting nod to ‘60s culture, offering plenty of satire and general absurdity.

Take, for instance, the episode in which we meet the new Catwoman, played with gusto by Eartha Kitt. The opening scene is a fashion show, in which Batgirl is awarded the first annual “Batty” for being the “best-dressed crime-fightress.” You can’t make this stuff up (well, actually, someone did). The rest of the episode pokes fun at ‘60s fashion, with Catwoman’s brilliant line in response to the miniskirt trend: “Mini-Ha-Ha!”

The three-part “Londinium” story skewers the groovy London culture; Batman dons a recycled monster costume for “How to Hatch a Dinosaur”. There are references to fondue, “wall-of-sound” girl groups, and other fads of the era.

The ultimate episode of this type was “Surf’s Up! Joker’s Under,” which hilariously satirized the surfing/beach movie culture, complete with a surfing contest between Batman and the Joker. Both hero and villain don surf jams over their costumes, and Batman fends off a shark with his Bat-Shark-Repellant-Spray to win the duel and save Gotham City, which suddenly has a beach. The humor was spot-on, with puns and clever asides galore, as campy as can be.

My lesson: good, clever writing will survive and bring joy even years later. As an adult, I am noticing things in Batman that went way over the head of my nine-year-old self who rushed home from school  to flip on the television in the hopes of seeing the Batcopter or, even better, the Batgirl-Cycle.

Know your audience and your style. Include clever asides when appropriate. And learn how to get yourself out of a deadly Human Knot by wiggling your ears—a skill that may come in handy someday.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate–all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Oh, Happy Day(s)

lighter look at a writer's life

Thank God for retro television channels.

I never pictured myself as a “golden oldie.” I used to cringe whenever my parents or other relatives would switch the radio to a “classics” channel. Now, I have found myself in a time of life where my favorites are now the oldies.

Come on over that hill with me!

I don’t know about you, but the news has been driving me a wee bit crazy lately. Correct that—it has been driving me ABSOLUTELY BONKERS. Mind you, I know I don’t need to stick my head in the sand and ignore everything; I need to be informed. But the bombardment of negativity can get to me.

Enter retro TV. One of these channels recently began airing one of my favorites at evening news time—Happy Days.

Thank you, Mr. or Ms. Program Director.

Instead of watching Norah, Lester, or David, I’ve been watching Richie, Potsie, and Ralph Malph . . . and, of course, the Fonz.

My relationship with these characters began when I was in middle school (Have I mentioned I’m an oldie?), when all of us guys wanted to be cool like the Fonz. I’m now watching the show with many miles and much writing experience behind me, and I have noticed some important changes.

Episodes in the first two years of Happy Days were like mini-coming-of-age movies, with Richie, Potsie, and Ralph at the center and Fonzie on the periphery, definitely an ancillary character. In the third season premiere and beyond, the show changed dramatically. Not only did producers change from film to tape—they changed the central character. Move over, Richie.

The savvy writers and producers realized Fonz, expertly played by Henry Winkler, was the breakout character, so, beginning in the third season, he appeared front and center in nearly every episode and storyline. He was soon doling advice to Richie and the gang, jumping his motorcycle over barrels, and smashing cars in a demolition derby, not to mention infamously jumping the shark.

As writers, we must be on the lookout for breakout characters, those creations who seem to jump off the page (not over the shark). By listening to our characters and responding to the ones who seem to be the most charismatic, we will grip our readers and keep them coming back for more. We have to be willing to change direction, if necessary, to liven up things. If it worked for the Fonz, it will work for us.

AAAAYYY! Don’t be a nerd—sit on it! Your writing chair, that is.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate–all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

We put on a Show And Saved the Day!

lighter look at a writer's life

I remember watching a Carol Burnett Show sketch that spoofed the old Mickey Rooney/Judy Garland musicals. You know the ones.

Hey, let’s put on a show!

The routine: a bunch of kids decide to do a show in an abandoned barn, and, miraculously, elaborate costumes and props appear. The show is a success, the day is saved, happily ever after for everyone.

I am a member of the planning committee for Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, and, like most conferences, we found ourselves at a loss as to how to hold our event this year in the midst of a pandemic. In April, members came to a unanimous decision.

Hey, let’s put on an online conference!

Now, I’m not Mickey Rooney, and Judy Garland was nowhere to be found. However, a group of determined writer servants set their minds to making such an event work.

Our coordinator Hallee Bridgeman and her tech-expert husband Gregg arranged the video conferencing details, and the rest of the committee followed. Much time and energy were devoted to scheduling, promotion, faculty confirmations, and more.

Everything fell into place, but, as the event neared, I got nervous, which is unlike me. I have attended numerous writers conferences and have taught at KCWC for years, but I had never done anything like this online.

I was scheduled to teach three classes (one a repeat), and, the night before, I was a wreck. What if my style wouldn’t translate to online teaching? What if my highly-interactive new attendee class went over like a lead balloon? What if my home internet went out?

It turns out, I had nothing to worry about. The classes went off with very few glitches. The technology, for the most part, worked. As for interaction? God did a supernatural thing, y’all.

Through the “chat” feature and other means, 400 attendees from nearly 40 states and 6 countries (France! Australia!) connected, networked, and generally enjoyed each other’s company. Though different, my classes were fun and interactive; getting out of my comfortable zone was a good thing. I was also able to attend some great classes myself and to listen to inspiring keynote addresses without having to jump up and run somewhere to take care of conference details. I even baked a batch of brownies while attending a class!

An overwhelming majority of the attendees have raved about the setup of the conference and the encouraging instruction, as well as celebrated the fact that they had some human interaction after months in isolation.

And guess what? MY HOME INTERNET DID GO OUT! With less than a minute left in one of my classes, I was answering a question when my service “hiccupped.” Only me, right?  I did what any tech person would do: I unplugged the “internet thingie” and then plugged it back in. Voila! It came back!

So we put on a “show,” and, by all indications, it was a success. God knew what we needed when we needed it and showed up in a big way.

Let’s put on another show! Who’s with me?

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate–all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.