Tag: writing conference

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Guest Posts

Silence: Two Worlds Collide

Guest posts

I attended the Blue Ridge Writer’s Conference for the fourth time last May. I did not know if I would be released by my doctor because I had had a heart attack in January. When he gave me the green light to travel, I immediately wanted to be part of the Third Path Bible study led by Eva Marie Everson. Miracles happened and I was the last one to be accepted. God directed my writing path and everything changed. 

The class was gut-wrenching. Eva Marie posed hard questions every day. We journaled in silence, sometimes sharing, other times, listening intently. God spoke to each of us. I prayed, “What would you have me write?” I stayed in a state of anticipation. Throughout the week, I grew close to my study mates, one even praying with me on the last day, 

Find out what God is doing and get on board with that. 

I have kept that close to my heart over the last nine months. I celebrated one year of heart attack recovery. Now when I write, everything has changed. Often the writing goes on hold because I am busy presenting in schools, civic groups, and senior groups. God is using that too. I write for a magazine for senior citizens. The editor asked me to double up on my articles. 

On an ordinary day last week, the sky grew dark. The weatherman warned us to be prepared for power outages. We collected candles, flashlights, and a headlamp. The rain lashed against the windows making it impossible to see outside. We watched the news quietly when my mother’s words came back to me, “Be still, this is the Lord’s work.”

The power went out. 

The light from outside was enough that we could read so I gathered my stack of books. I have a habit of reading three or four at a time. There was no background noise, no football game, only wind. I picked up my copy of The Third Path and read, “How do you define silence?” It blew my mind.

It was like two worlds colliding.

The directive for the devotion to be silent was paired with true silence, something I am unfamiliar with. The house phone did not ring. Other than the wind and rain, I heard the ticking of a wind-up clock that hadn’t been used in years. There was no hum of my computer or social media.

I fretted about my wet clothes that sat still in the dryer. My refrigerator did not hum. My husband said, “Don’t open it, the food could spoil.”  No cars were going by and we could see that others were out of power. My hand was forced, I had to be silent. We prayed for friends and family. We prayed for power workers and tree cutters. 

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. 

Philippians 2:13

When the power came back on, we left the television off. After reading into the night, we turned in early. Silence; with plans to attend Blue Ridge again, my mission is clear. Listen, learn, and let God lead. 

Theresa Parker Pierce is a presenter, docent, and writer living in historic Salisbury, N.C. where she enjoys spending time with family and friends. Theresa likes storytelling about her childhood in eastern North Carolina and the history of Rowan County. She writes monthly for Senior Savvy magazine. She shares her volunteer time between the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer and the Rowan Museum in Salisbury. Theresa speaks in schools and to civic groups making use of the skills learned from Toastmasters.  

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Confessions of a Writers Conference Junkie

lighter look at a writer's life

We are coming upon the time of the year I call “conference season,” when most writers conferences are held. I have been attending these events for nearly 20 years now, and I have a confession to make.

My name is Carlton Hughes, and I am a conference junkie.

That was hard to admit, but confession is the first step to healing. Here are some “symptoms” to see if you, too, are addicted to writers conferences:

–You save money for months prior to the event—not for tuition or books but for treats and drinks at the coffee shop.

–With each new clothing purchase, you think, “could this be worn to the conference?”

–You separate your conference clothes in the closet, so you don’t wear them too much or stain them prior to the conference.

–You keep checking (and checking and checking) the conference website day after to day to see if faculty and classes have been posted.

–Once faculty and classes are posted, you religiously study the lists to make your choices, keeping in mind that coffee shop/hang out time trumps everything.

–You keep in touch with your writer friends during the regular part of the year, talk about the conference, and make sure they’re going to attend.

–You make plans with these friends to spend as much time together in the coffee shop (or the lobby of the hotel) during the event.

–You pack your Ziploc bags early so you can stash your extra macaroons to bring home (Specifically for the Blue Ridge Conference).

I’ll let you figure out which of these things are “tongue-in-cheek” and which ones are serious. I have said it many times before and will say it again: RELATIONSHIPS=the most important thing at a writers conference. Contracts and assignments are fine, but people will stick by you through thick and thin.

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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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for June Part 1

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

The Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Review

Writers Chat co-host Norma Poore, attended the recent 2023 BRMCWC. Joining her in this episode are four other attendees to share their experiences, both as first-time attendees and multi-time attendees. Find out how attending a conference can benefit your writing journey with both opportunities and friendships.

Watch the June 6th Replay

Norma Poore is an award-winning Christian writer who is passionate about encouraging women in their faith, families, and friendships. After thirty-eight years of marriage, six children, and thirteen grandchildren Norma is still crazy about her knight in shining armor, David. Her favorite thing to do is to cook for and hang out with her large family

Plotting 101: How to Create a Story Readers Can’t Put Down with Crystal Caudill

Crystal presents a comprehensive look at the four-act story structure (which is the three-act structure with the middle act divided into two). She begins with an idea for brainstorming using M&Ms, followed by elements that strengthen our stories. The popular movie Shrek is presented as an excellent example of the four-act structure. Catch the replay of this episode to deepen your understanding of story structure.

Watch the June 13th Replay

Crystal Caudill is the award-winning author of “dangerously good historical romance. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver. When not writing, Crystal can be found hanging with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

Categories
Fantasy-Sci-Fi

Location, Location, Location: Where Do We Find Our Peeps?

Finding your tribe can be difficult, especially for writers who’d much rather stay at home. It doesn’t take an introvert to prefer the comfy confines of one’s office/writing nook. However, as we discussed in Who’s Ya Buddy, our writing life can be greatly enhanced by connecting with other authors.

How? you may ask. I’ll take a cue from starting a business: the three things you need to keep in mind are Location, Location, Location. And in this day and age we have OPTIONS! The more specific question is, Where? As Dr. Seuss reminds us, “From there to here, from here to there. Funny things are everywhere.” Funny things being, in this instance, writers. The challenge can lie in finding balance between limiting or spreading ourselves too thin.

“I feel thin, sort of stretched, like butter scraped over too much bread.”

J.R.R. Tolkien

Local Gatherings

It’s scary but beneficial to meet other authors IRL (in real life.) I promise, no one will behead you and absorb your life energy. I promise, no one will behead you and absorb your life energy.

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My first critique group experience was arranged through NaNoWriMo—four total strangers meeting in Books-A-Million to submit their words to each other. (Cue nervous sweating now.) I learned to prepare my work to be shared, and not die a thousand deaths while they listened and critiqued my piece. Though I was terrified, I ended up loving our little group. The other members were far more experienced, but gracious and encouraging. It can be a transformative experience to sit down with another author and go over your WIP with them. Sometimes these are the best brainstorming sessions.

  • Check your public library for opportunities and events, whether virtual or in-person, it’s a good place to connect. And, if there isn’t already a writer’s group, you can start one!
  • Local comic-cons are a fun place to meet local scifi/fantasy authors who are further along the publishing journey.
  • Another opportunity for author enrichment can be the local university. UAB has hosted writing festivals for several years, initially live and in-person, but adapting to virtual and hybrid meetings as the pandemic changed the way we interacted.

These local opportunities open the way to other author activities like poetry slams and book readings. Participate in community author events—you don’t need to be published to encourage other authors. You just need to show up.

Writing Conferences (Not-so-Local)

Writing conferences, whether in-person or virtual, can boost your writing attitude and energy tremendously. Whether they’re specific to your genre or encompass a variety of like-minded authors who produce differently styled works, this where you can meet your peers in drive and passion. The love of words is a powerful equalizer, able to bridge chasms of age, geography, and reading tastes. That being said, Realm Makers is a wonderful group for lovers of speculative fiction.

If finances are tight, ask about scholarship options. Most writing conferences exist to encourage new writers and will do what they can to minimize barriers. Plan ahead for lower travel expenses. Take a risk and be open to a roommate. Join the dialogue before you arrive, it’s never too early to start learning from each other.

Internet Communities

Finally, gatherings of writers abound online. Facebook, Instagram, Discord, even Twitch & Twitter are full of opportunities to connect with other authors. If you want to follow your favorite author, search their website for where they invite the public to join them online. If you want to brainstorm with spec fic authors, do a search and check out the groups that interest you. If you want to learn throughout the year, there are many opportunities to join other writers who spur each other on. I’ve listed these before, but Writers Chat, the 540 Club, and Realm Makers are welcoming communities which exist to benefit other authors.

Here’s my caveat: Not every situation will be best suited to meet your needs or expectations. You don’t have to listen to all the voices that speak into your work, but you should learn to be flexible. I have been devastated by some critiques and strengthened by others. Look for safe spaces and spaces that challenge, but you won’t find either until you strike out and take a risk. Don’t wait for the mountain to come to you, be brave and start climbing.

Sophia L Hansen is an author and editor with Havok Publishing and loves to write In Other Worlds. She’s lived on a tiny island in Alaska, the bustling cities of New York and Boston, raised kids in Tennessee, and now resides just outside Birmingham, AL. After 30+ years of marriage, seven children, and numerous pets, Sophia still fits into her high school earrings.

You can follow Sophia’s words and worlds at https://www.sophialhansen.com/, Facebook, and Instagram.

Categories
Mastering Middle Grade

New Year, New Goals

It’s a brand new year. That means a new start to achieving new goals and a fresh clean slate to do it with.

Serious Writer posted a question to its community board last month asking writers to list their 2020 goals. Most of the responses involved completing works-in-progress, building marketing plans, and blogging consistently.

I wanted to add three goals for your consideration as we enter a new year:

1) Read at least one middle grade book each month. 

Stephen King said it best: “If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”  When you read something that resonates with you – or doesn’t – analyze it. Figure out how the author constructed their chapter (or sentence, or paragraph) to create the response you felt. 

Reading comes in handy when it’s time to market your own work. You’ll better understand what types of books are on shelf, what’s selling, and how your work might fit within the genre.

2) Attend a writing workshop or conference.

The benefits of attending a conference are well worth the investment. There are opportunities to hold face-to-face meetings with editors, agents, and publishers. You can connect with other writers to build critique groups. If your conference offers critiques, you are able to receive valuable feedback on your work. The industry education alone is well worth the time and effort it takes to attend.

3) Write a review of a middle grade book each month. 

Reviews are important for authors. When you read a middle grade book, take a moment to write a (spoiler-free) review of what you’ve read. This does two things: First, it helps the author sell their book. Second, if you post a mini-review on your blog or social media account, it helps build your platform. Book reviews are crucial for new and self-published authors, so why not help other authors the way (someday soon) you wish to be helped?

Here’s wishing you a healthy, productive new writing year! If you have a new goal for 2020, tell me in the comments below or on Instagram at @klmckinneywrites.

Happy New Year!

Kell McKinney earned a B.A. in journalism from the University of Oklahoma and an M.S. in documentary studies from the University of North Texas. She’s a part-time copywriter, double-time mom and wife, and spends every free minute writing and/or hunting for her car keys. Connect with her on Twitter @Kell_McK or kellmckinney.com.

Categories
Embrace the Wait

Survival Tips for the Waiting Part of Writing Tip #8 – Leave Your Comfort Zone

The life of an introvert is whelming—not over, not under—just whelming. And that’s how I like it. When my well-planned days lead to drama-free nights, I thrive.

I first met Charlotte at a writer’s retreat. Her boisterous, Southern charm tripped my extrovert alert system the instant the hey y’all shrilled through her bright pink lipstick. Of course, I heeded the internal warning, veered away from her, and steered myself into a sea of reserved writers more commonly found in that habitat.

No, I’m not a snob and definitely not an unfriendly person. But a dark season of life had brought me to that conference weary and wary. The only thing worse than wrestling with mom-guilt over the troubles of an adult child, is having to endure the giddiness of someone who that kind of grief has never touched. So my official conference plan for rejuvenation and self-preservation involved dodging Charlotte, attending classes, and enjoying alone time with God.

The strategy worked until the final morning of the retreat. Even though my burden remained heavy, I was able to sit at cafeteria breakfast table and reflect on God’s goodness; the deepest valleys so often provide the sweetest refuge in Him. With my mind fixed on things above, my internal alert system must have malfunctioned, because when I emerged from my thoughts there she stood, wearing a bright fuchsia blouse and dazzling smile. Before I could say a word, Charlotte introduced herself, sat down, and plunged into an animated description of her ministry and writing.

I listened with polite interest, hoping the firecracker of a woman wouldn’t spontaneously combust before my eyes. But when she launched into the description of her book, the first sentence captured my attention and held it hostage. And every word that followed pierced my heart. I had been so wrong in my assumption that Charlotte had been untouched by grief. She had. Her son had been wrongly accused of a heinous crime and sent to prison. But God had shown her how to pray—how to fight for him in a way that was powerful and effective. That’s where her joy had come from, and she was shouting it from the rooftops—and the breakfast table. I left the dining area changed by her story—somehow healed by it.  

Later that day, Charlotte offered to drive me to the airport. I was tempted to decline, but something in me needed more of the life flowing through her. I accepted … before I realized she intended to shove me and my two-ton suitcase into in her fiery red convertible for the drive. If a human could ever have an automobile twin, there would be no doubt Charlotte and the hot-rod came from the same womb. I took one look at the vehicle and asked a logical question, “Where will we put my luggage?”

Charlotte never answered the question, but her laughter echoed through the parking lot as she popped a small hatch located behind the two miniature seats. She then chucked my enormous suitcase into the tiny opening where it wedged tightly to all four sides and stood tall against the opened lid.

Warning sirens blared in my head, demanding that I ask Charlotte several other questions, “If we can’t close the trunk, what will keep my luggage from flying out while we drive? How will you be able to see through the back window? And what if it rains?”   

Charlotte provided jovial answers. “I drive with my trunk open all the time, nothing’s ever fallen out.” “My side-mirrors work just fine.” and “A little rain never hurt nobody.”

With all questions asked and answered, I did the only thing any polite, shell-shocked recluse could do; I folded myself into the bucket seat of Charlotte’s red sportster, and silently vowed to never again ridicule those poor Lifetime movie characters who make irrational decisions that led to their demise.

We pulled onto the winding country road with car top down and trunk lid open. My neatly arranged hair whipped in the wind and wrapped around my face for over an hour. And it rained. But while Charlotte talked a million miles a minute and drove almost as fast, another voice broke through. I never realized God could speak with a Southern accent; Charlotte’s every word provided real answers to my most agonized prayers, and as a bonus— her infectious joy lifted my heavy heart. I felt so refreshed I didn’t even care that I looked like a deranged vagrant when we arrived at the airport.

Charlotte is now one of my favorite people in the world. She’s a precious woman, full of life and God’s Spirit. Just the thought of her makes me happy. It scares me to think how much I would have missed had I chosen a safe route home. The common ground that bridged the gap between elusive introvert and excitable extrovert became my road to hope.

My tip for this month is to step out of your comfort zone. Allow God to use His people—all kinds—to help mold your faith and your writing career into what He has destined it to be.

Scripture: Hebrews 13:2, Ephesians 4:16, John 17:21

Fun Fact: If you’d like to learn more about dear Charlotte and her amazing testimony check out her newly released book, Live In The Victory: God’s Victorious Battle Plans for Parents of Prodigals. Her picture is on the front and back cover of the book if you’d like to sneak a peek. You can find her book on Amazon here.

Annette Marie Griffin is a award-winning writer who speaks at local women’s group meetings and women’s retreats on the topic of biblical womanhood and finding our identity in Christ. She is the Operations and Events Coordinator at a private school for special needs students and is the editor of their quarterly newsletter. She has written custom curriculum for women’s retreats and children’s church curriculum for Gateway Church in San Antonio, Texas where she served as Children’s Ministry Director and Family Program Director for over twenty years. She and her husband John have five amazing children and two adorable grands. She’s a member of Word Weavers International, ACFW, SCBWI, and serves on the Board of Directors for The Creative Writing Institute.

Categories
Child's Craft

Your Fifteen Minutes

Whether you write for children or adults, or both, meeting with industry professionals at writers’ conferences is essential.

But what do you do with that fifteen-minutes slot?

I asked several editors that question a few months ago. Here are some of their suggestions. But don’t try to do ALL of these in one session. Focus on those that apply to you and your writing.

  • Most editors do not bite.
  • Come prepared with a few questions to ask the editor.
  • Familiarize yourself with that publisher or agency BEFORE the conference. Study their website.
  • Be truthful. If you don’t have a book published say so.
  • Be prepared to talk about yourself and your writing. Your passion should shine through.
  • Feel free to ask for general help in plotting your writing course.
  • Leave contact info with them such as a professional business card or a one-sheet.
  • Decide in advance on your reason for the appointment. Do you have a book idea to sell? Do you need advice? Do you want the editor/agent to glance at a proposal and give you tips on how to improve it? Do you want to brainstorm a story idea? Would you like recommendations for other publishers to submit to?
  • Pitch only one project unless the editor/agent asks for another one.
  • Ask him/her what they are looking for, or what literature they love and hate.
  • Pitch your story in less than five minutes Then stop talking and listen.
  • Know your genre, theme and target audience.
  • Watch the time—be courteous and don’t make others wait.
  • Ask, “If I incorporate your suggestions would you be willing to review my proposal/manuscript?”
  • Be grateful and gracious.
  • Be flexible. Sometimes things happen!
  • Follow up with a SHORT email thanking them for their time.
  • Anticipate some questions such as: How does your story end? What published author’s style would you compare yours to? Who are your favorite authors in your genre? Is this part of a series? What are the subsequent books about? Do you participate in a critique group? Have you pitched this to others? What response did you get?
  • Be yourself—your best self. Be open, humble and genuine.
  • If the editor/agent is reading your material be silent and let them read.
  • Answer their questions the best you can without defending your work.
  • Trust the Lord to open the right doors and forge the right relationships for you.

Jean Hall lives in Louisville, Kentucky. She is represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary. Her premier picture book series Four Seasons was recently signed by Little Lamb Books. Jean is a member of the SCBWI, Word Weavers International, and the Kentucky Christian Writers. Visit Jean at www.jeanmatthewhall.com, on Facebook at Jean Matthew Hall, and on Twitter as @Jean_Hall.

Categories
Writing Conference

2018 Character Intensive Writing Conference

Steven James here. As a working novelist over the last decade I’ve heard over and over from editors and agents that the characters that aspiring writers have created don’t ring true, aren’t engaging, or just aren’t interesting enough for them to want to spend time with.

So how do you create intriguing characters in your novel or screenplay—characters that will become so real to your readers or viewers that they almost seem to leap off the page or the screen and seem life-like?

Developing multi-dimensional characters is a process, and it’s one that all writers can learn and apply.

It’s one you can master.

Writers will often talk about “fleshing out” a character, but it isn’t flesh that readers need to see, it’s what lies down closer to the bone.

Too many stories are littered with lifeless character corpses, with heroes who don’t inspire us, with villains who don’t unsettle us.

Here’s one of the secrets that great writers know: audiences will stick with an intriguing character longer than they’ll stick with a likable one.

Readers don’t want to read about nice characters doing nice things. They want to read about conflicted characters doing difficult things. Film audiences want the same—characters that leap off the screen as if they have a life of their own.

But how do we pull that off?

The secrets are out there.

And you can learn them for yourself.

The need for improving writing in this area is so great that I decided to partner with two of the country’s premier instructors in the area of characterization and offer a one-time conference that addresses these issues.

David Corbett’s groundbreaking book THE ART OF CHARACTER is reshaping how authors and screenwriters think about the characters in their work.

Susan Man Warren’s courses and novel therapy programs  have helped dozens of authors tell better stories—many signing with agents and getting their stories published.

Both David and Susan are successful novelists in their own right and teach at events nationwide.

As far as my background, I have a Master’s Degree in Storytelling, have written sixteen novels as well as two award-winning books on the craft of writing, STORY TRUMPS STRUCTURE and TROUBLESHOOTING YOUR NOVEL. I’ll be your host and also one of the instructors.

At this select two-day event you’ll learn and be inspired from eight in-depth sessions:

  • #1 The Fundamental Courtship: Creating Characters that Readers and Audiences Will Want to Spend Time With
  • #2 Backstory is Behavior: Revealing Your Character’s Past in the Present
  • #3 Passion, Pursuit, and Privacy: Tapping into Your Character’s Inner Desires, Secrets, and Conflicts to Explore Motivation
  • #4 Attitude and Dimensionality: Adding Depth and Complexity to Your Character
  • #5 The Morality of Decision: Exploring How Choices Reveal Character
  • #6 Dialogue and Drama: Delving into Your Character’s Relationships
  • #7 Transformations and Epiphanies: Following Your Character’s Arc
  • #8 Heroes and Villains: Bringing Out the Best and the Worst in Characters

If you’re a screenwriter or novelist, don’t miss this one-time event. Registration is limited, so sign up today.

For more details, and to register, click to www.characterconference.com

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

How to Prepare For Pitch Sessions at a Writing Conference

I attended my first writing conference when I was sixteen-years-old. This is what lead to the publication of my first novel, PURPLE MOON.

Since then, I’ve attended conferences yearly and have grown in my craft, established connections that were beneficial to my career, and made lasting friendships and memories.

But these conferences can be intimidating for newbies — especially if you’re a teen like I was.

A young writer recently asked me,

“I was wondering if you have any advice for pitch appointments? I’ll be attending a conference this fall and it will be my first conference where I’ll be pitching my novel in a formal setting.”

For those of you who don’t know, at a writer’s conference, you have the opportunity to meet with agents and publishers and pitch your book. At most conferences, these appointments last about 15 minutes.

Which means that, as a writer, you must make a great first impression in this short amount of time in hopes that they will request your full manuscript (or proposal).

As a writer, Associate Agent, and Acquisitions Editor, I’ve experienced what it’s like to be on both sides of the table. I’ve learned — through trial and error, and through witnessing the pitches of others — what to do and what not to do.

Here is what you do want to do during these pitch sessions:

  1. Prepare beforehand. Write a concise tagline of your book that you can deliver during the pitch. Make a list of potential questions the agent or editor might ask. Do your research on who it is that you’re pitching to. You might also want to make a list of questions that you’d like to ask them as well.
  2. During the pitch, give a brief introduction, then tell the agent/editor your title and genre. Then dive into the concise pitch. If you have a one sheet or sample chapters, ask if the agent/editor would like to see it.
  3. Remember: passion makes an impression when it’s contained within the boundaries of a professional approach. You want to be passionate about your project, but not so passionate that you begin to ramble.
  4. Project confidence, not arrogance. Believe in your book and don’t be afraid to tell the agent/editor about your publishing history and writing qualifications. (They will want to know this!)
  5. Refrain from over-delivering — give them just enough of a hook to wet their appetite for more.You’ll also want to leave time for them to ask questions to you and vice versa.

The most important thing to remember? Relax. Have fun with this! Don’t put pressure on yourself to leave with contract interest, but to share your passion for your book and receive feedback and direction.

The agent/editor isn’t meeting with you to criticize you; in fact, they’re hoping to find projects that they can pursue. Many times they’re happy just to offer their input, even if they may not be interested in the project at the time.

Is anyone else planning to attend a conference soon? Let me know in the comments!

(PS … Are you a young writer? Receive a free PDF just for you when you sign up for my young/beginning-writers only mailing list!)

[bctt tweet=”How to Prepare For Pitch Sessions at a Writing Conference @tessaemilyhall #writerslife” username=””]

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
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

5 Reasons NOT to Attend a Writing Conference

Conference season is upon us and social media is abuzz with encouragement to click a sign-up link and submit a deposit.

So what’s all the hoopla about a conference for writers? Are these events worth the time/money/effort to attend?

I’m not so sure. After careful deliberation, here are 5 reasons to stay home:

  1. You have plenty of writer friends and have no interest in meeting others.

Seriously. Within seconds of arrival, you would be amazed at the number of folks excited about putting pen to paper and eager to get to know you. And not just on the surface. They might ask what you like to write, what you dream of writing, what you hope to do with words, imagination, and hard work.

So, yeah. If sharing your writer-soul with other writerly-souls doesn’t appeal, then think twice about attending. Life-long friends can be such a nuisance.

  1. You already, um…know enough writer stuff.

The conference will be packed with classes on everything from grammar and punctuation to character development and plot lines. Not to mention workshops on proposals, query letters, manuscript submission, where to find work, how to build a resume, and tips on formatting everything from movie scripts to picture books. Want to try a class outside your genre? You’ll have the opportunity to get a little crazy and go for it.

Unless, of course, you wrote the book(s) on the aforementioned. (Then you might be compelled to share your expertise with the rest of us…) 

  1. Hanging out with a faculty of accomplished writers and authors sounds like a bore.

Hmm. I guess it could be a tad dull. You know, hearing about their writing journeys, their struggles, and how hard work and dreaming big paid off. Drinking from the well of experience and soaking in encouragement from the pros could be overwhelming. And if you’re on the fence with your decision, do not daydream about sitting next to your favorite author during lunch and having an actual conversation. That would just be weird. 

  1. You have reached your affirmation quota.

This is a given. Unless you check into your room and hide under the bed, you will receive encouragement—from the experts and from your new friends (see #1).

Sorry. Just the way it is.

  1. Attending a conference is expensive and time consuming.

This is true. There is cost involved. And sacrifice. Of course there are scholarships available, but you would have to apply. And there are smaller and shorter gatherings that cost less than the week-long events. Other options include: ask family and friends to invest in your dream through birthday and Christmas gifts, set aside a little dream-money each month, sell unused stuff on eBay, have a garage/yard sale, etc. (A cost/trouble/sacrifice analysis is recommended.)

 

In all seriousness, taking that step to attend a writing conference—especially for the first time—is huge. But you will NOT be alone. Grab a suitcase, pack your dreams and aspirations, dust off that manuscript (finished or not) and hit the trail.

The time is now!

Helpful links:

http://www.blueridgemountainschristianwritersconference.com/

http://www.almostanauthor.com/come-out-swinging-fighting-fear-as-a-writer/

http://www.almostanauthor.com/writers-conferences-main-thing/

http://www.almostanauthor.com/three-reasons-learn-share-writing/

http://www.vondaskelton.com/2016/02/16/writers-headlines-writing-opportunities-conferences-collected-just-for-you/

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Categories
A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Writers Conferences: The Main Thing

I’ve been to many writers conferences and even serve on the planning committee of one event, and I always tell conference “newbies” about the main thing.

Most first-time conference attendees think the main thing is their work. Their manuscript. Their baby. I thought that, too. I was wrong.

Ten years ago I came to my first conference, Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, very “green.” I had my manuscript, my baby, in a big blue binder, and I expected to meet an editor, sign a contract at dinner, and return the next year with a shiny published book with my name on it and a gig as the keynote speaker.

Why not dream big?

One of the first people I met at the conference “Meet-and-Greet” was an editor with a MAJOR Christian publishing house. We chatted easily and found ourselves “bumping into each other” all weekend. We even got together at the hotel, and he met my family. At the end of the conference, he miraculously agreed to take my manuscript home!

My dream was coming true! An editor from a MAJOR house was willing to look at my work! Keynote, here I come!

A few months later, he got laid off from the MAJOR publishing house.

So much for my big dream.

However, through the years, a deep friendship developed as we exchanged emails, Facebook messages, and phone calls. We have shared the highs and lows of life, watched each other’s children grow up, commiserated over writing rejections, celebrated publications, and more.

Today, ten years after that first meeting at KCWC, this friend traveled many miles out of his way (over mountainous roads—I live in the middle of nowhere) to visit me. We had a great day touring the area, sharing a meal, and catching up after too many years. We even prayed for each other before he left.

He never published my book . . . but he became one of my dearest friends.

Relationship. That, my friends, is the main thing you’ll take away from a writers conference.

Categories
A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Of Humble Pie and Closets

Navigating the publishing world can be a humbling experience. We write a piece that we think is going to take the world by storm. We edit and refine it and then submit it.

We wait. We get a rejection. Or an editor rips it to shreds.

Big slice of humble pie, anyone?

Meeting industry professionals can be an intimidating and humbling experience as well. I must say that the agents and editors I have met are nice, down-to-earth people, but I still get nervous when I meet them. That was especially the case the first time I had an appointment with an agent at a writers conference.

It was my initial visit to Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference at Ridgecrest Conference Center near Asheville, NC. If you’ve never been to BRMCWC, register NOW. It’s like Disney World for aspiring Christian writers.

If you have ever met me, you know I’m one of the most outgoing people on the planet. I love people and will talk to anyone or anything, even a tree, and I love to laugh. However, I walked into the registration area at that first BRMCWC, looked at all the people and wondered “What am I doing here?”

When it came time for that first appointment, I was fidgety and didn’t know what to do with myself. I was understandably excited and nervous about meeting a real-live, big-time agent. I prayed and felt God telling me in my spirit, “be yourself.” I sat down, handed the agent my card and introduced myself.

We had an easy rapport, and the 15-minutes seemed to fly by. He requested I send him a proposal and agreed to keep in touch. I was on Cloud Nine.

I got up and turned around to leave. That year at Blue Ridge the appointments were held in a big room near the cafeteria, and there was a wall of doors, with only one leading to the hallway. I chose a door and walked out of the meeting area . . . into a closet filled with tables.

I’m not sure how many people noticed my faux pas, because I was too embarrassed to turn around. I backed out of the closet, found the real exit door, and took off as fast as I could.

I think God allows embarrassing things like this one to remind me to not take myself too seriously. Writing and publishing are serious endeavors, but ultimately God is in control. If I keep myself humble, I’ll remember that and won’t let the rejections and the criticisms get to me.

Get yourself to BRMCWC—they have nice closets.

[bctt tweet=”Get yourself to BRMCWC—they have nice closets. #BRMCWC #authors” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”Big slice of humble pie, anyone? #BRMCWC #writer” via=”no”]