Tag: Writing Conferences

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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.

Categories
Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for February Part 2

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.”

Featuring…

How to Write a Romance with Johnnie Alexander

The $1.4 billion Romance genre is the most competitive and the most profitable Amazon category. Writing a story for this popular genre that readers will love requires authors to be familiar with readers’ expectations and popular tropes. On this episode of Writers Chat, Johnnie Alexander, discusses these topics and shares guidelines on how to write a romance with an engaging and emotional story arc. If you’ve ever wanted to write a romance or want to improve your romance-writing skills, then this is the episode for you!

Watch the February 15th replay.

Johnnie Alexander, an award-winning author of more than twenty works of fiction in a variety of genres. Her award-winning debut novel, Where Treasure Hides, is a CBA bestseller which was translated into Dutch and Norwegian. Her latest novel, The Cryptographer’s Dilemma, hit the Amazon best-seller list. Johnnie also writes contemporary romances, cozy mysteries, and romantic suspense. She is on the executive boards of Serious Writer, Inc. and Mid-South Christian Writers Conference and co-hosts of an online show called Writers Chat. She also teaches at writers conferences and for Serious Writer Academy. A fan of classic movies, stacks of books, and road trips, she shares a life of quiet adventure with Griff, her happy-go-lucky collie, and Rugby, her raccoon-treeing papillon. Connect with Johnnie at johnnie-alexander.com.

At the Writers Conference with the Writers Chat Team

In a previous episode, we talked about preparing for a writers conference. This episode focuses on your time AT the conference. Our Writers Chat Team discussed the following topics with input from our participants: ~~What to take to the conference ~~Conference etiquette ~~Staying open to God’s plan for the conference ~~Five tips from a director’s perspective Other helpful tips were also shared plus info on upcoming conferences. https://youtu.be/Z5jSThOfRs8

Watch the February 22nd replay.

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
Devotional/Christian Living

Writing Wisdom from Christian Living and Devotional Author Sarah Geringer

I recently interviewed Christian Living and devotional author Sarah Geringer. I hope you gain as much writing wisdom from her as I have!

How did you get started as a devotional or Christian Living writer?

I began blogging in 2010 with reflections on my One Year Bible readings. My blogging stopped and started for several years. In 2015, I began blogging daily for Lent, and resumed a regular rhythm of writing posts for spiritual growth. I now write weekly exclusive devotions for my email subscribers in addition to blog posts. I also regularly guest post at A Wife Like Me, Devotable, and Woman 2 Woman Ministries. Every quarter, my devotions are published in Hope-Full Living, a devotional for seniors.

Do you research for your writing? What are some of your favorite resources?

I use my personal library of over 10 Bibles and hundreds of Christian non-fiction books. I also rely on biblegateway.com to research different translations when I’m pressed for time. Mostly, my inspiration comes from my quiet times alone with God in prayer and Scripture reading.

How did you get connected with your agent or editor?

Years ago, the (in)courage website had Facebook discussion groups. Michelle S. Lazurek was my group leader. At the She Speaks Conference in July 2017, Michelle walked up and introduced herself to me. We were both at the conference to pitch our book ideas. That fall, I saw on Facebook that Michelle signed as an agent. In January 2018, someone posted in the She Speaks 2017 Facebook group, asking if anyone had heard back from their publisher meetings. I posted that I was in contact with an agent who had not given a final answer. Michelle read my post and private messaged me, asking to look at my book proposal. I signed with her in March 2018, and she got me my first book contract in May 2018. God used Facebook and She Speaks to connect us. If you want to connect with an agent, I recommend attending a writers’ conference. It is an excellent way to connect with people in the industry. Read more about my experience at the She Speaks Conference here.

What do you do to stay connected with your readers?

My email subscriber list is my top priority. I try to offer them exclusive, high quality content every week to help them in their Christian faith. Pinterest is the biggest driver of traffic to my blog, and I spend several hours per week managing my feed there. I also provide content almost every day on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Goodreads and LinkedIn to reach various members of my tribe. I spend about 20 hours per week managing my social media accounts. It’s a large time commitment, but I truly enjoy engaging with my readers on each of these platforms. However, I normally take Sundays off because a Sabbath rest refreshes and recharges me.

How do you make writing a priority in the midst of your busy life?

Recently I shared a post on Instagram, telling how I apply Dave Ramsey’s financial advice to my writing life. He tells his followers to “pay yourself first,” because no one else will do it for you. Years ago, I realized that my writing wouldn’t happen unless I made it a high priority. I decided to pay myself first in writing, even though many other responsibilities called my name as a wife and mother. In 2015 I began getting up at 4:00 a.m. to write for a couple hours before going to my day job. This habit resulted in hundreds of blog posts, three self-published books, and a traditionally published book releasing in Oct. 2019. Even before I started that habit, I wrote in the afternoons while my children were napping. If you want to write for a living, you must make a daily no-break appointment with yourself. As you keep planting seeds, you will reap a harvest in due time. You may be interested in my course, Best Tips for Christian Writers. In it, I explain how I started out as a blogger, self-published three books, and work to build my platform as a traditionally published author.

Sarah Geringer is an author, freelance writer, blogger and artist. Her book Transforming Your Thought Life: Christian Meditation in Focus will be released by Leafwood Publishers in October 2019. Sarah also volunteers as a proofreader for Proverbs 31 Ministries’ Encouragement for Today devotions. Her books include Newness of Life: Trusting God in Times of Transition, The Fruitful Life: A Unique Look at the Fruits of the Spirit, and Christmas Peace for Busy Moms: 25 Days of Quick Devotions to Calm Your Stress. She lives in southeast Missouri with her husband and three children. You can follow Sarah as she writes about Finding Peace in God’s Word at sarahgeringer.com.

Rachel Schmoyer is a pastor’s wife who is loving her church life. She writes about the hard parts of Scripture at readthehardparts.com. She has had devotionals published in the past, but now she is looking forward to getting her first Christian Living book published. You can connect with Rachel on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Young Writer, You Are Enough

I was fifteen years old when I officially decided to launch my writing journey. I began by devouring books within the genre I’d like to write, studying the craft, learning how the industry works, starting a blog, and I wrote the first draft of my debut novel, PURPLE MOON.  

When I attended my first conference a year later, I met several writers who were supportive and encouraged me in my writing journey. I can’t tell you how many people have told me, “I wish I was your age when I’d started out!” However, over the years I’ve also come across writers (and professionals) who don’t seem to have a respect for young writers. Some might even categorize them all as inexperienced, impatient, and assume they can’t write because they haven’t been in the industry long enough.

It’s as if some people will only respect writers if they’ve held a college degree for years, have worked in another profession, and then they finally decide to pursue this field well-into their parenting years.

There aren’t enough people who are encouraging young writers. Assuring them that they are enough. Yes, you can launch your writing journey at a young age. No, you might not have as much “life experience” as the writer who is double or triple your age–but will that keep you from a publishing contract? Only if that lack is reflected in your writing. However, I constantly come across submissions at Hartline Literary Agency from young writers whose talent is far beyond their years. I wouldn’t have known they were young had they not mentioned it in their proposal!

Young writers are passionate about storytelling. Driven to learn and improve their craft. Dedicated. Innovative. Intelligent. Imaginative. Teachable. Willing to embrace new challenges and adapt to the shifting industry. And isn’t this what editors at publishing houses are seeking? (I’ll answer for you: Yes!)

If you’re a young writer who is dealing with doubts and discouragement over your age or lack of experience, let me assure you that you are enough. Age does not have to keep you from striving toward your dreams.

And if you ever do begin to wrestle with discouragement, here are a few things to remember…

  • You are the leaders of tomorrow’s publishing industry. Your future books could set new trends amongst your genre. Who knows? You might even see your story come to life on the big screen someday! (Hmm…I wonder if Veronica Roth ever believed she was too young to write “Divergent” as a young adult…)
  • You are tomorrow’s best-selling and award-winning authors. Your books could be treasured and adored for years by future generations.
  • You are more likely to embrace and adapt to the new changes within the industry—especially where technology is concerned.
  • You are eager to grow; therefore, you are open to criticism and feedback and maintain a teachable attitude.
  • You’re familiar with the struggles of your generation. Your influence and voice amongst your peers might be louder (and less judgey!) than those who cannot relate.

Of course, the publishing journey might not come quick or easy for you. You have plenty of time to grow, develop, and glean from those who have gone before you. That’s why it’s important to start now–especially if you know this is a dream of yours.

Don’t be surprised, however, if you do come across writers or professionals who don’t take you seriously. If you do, just brush off their opinions and keep moving forward. Allow your confidence as a young writer to be your response.

Besides–those who might criticize you because of your age? I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re just bitter. They’re probably thinking, “If only I would’ve been smart enough to start my writing journey at that age!” 😉

If you’re a young writer, which do you receive more regarding your age–encouragement or criticism? Is there anything you’d like to add to this list? Let me know in the comments!

[bctt tweet=”Young Writer, You Are Enough @TessaEmilyHall #amwriting #teenwriters ” username=””]

Tessa Emily Hall writes inspirational yet authentic YA fiction to show teens they’re not alone. Her passion for shedding light on clean entertainment and media for teens led her to a career as an Associate Agent at Hartline Literary Agency, YA Acquisitions Editor for Illuminate YA (LPC Imprint), and Founder/Editor of PursueMagazine.net. Tessa’s first teen devotional, COFFEE SHOP DEVOS, will release with Bethany House in 2018. She’s guilty of making way too many lattes and never finishing her to-read list. When her fingers aren’t flying 116 WPM across the keyboard, she can be found speaking to teens, decorating her insulin pump, and acting in Christian films. Her favorite way to procrastinate is by connecting with readers on her blog, mailing list, social media (@tessaemilyhall), and website: tessaemilyhall.com.

Categories
Mastering Middle Grade

Three Things I Learned in Wimberley, TX

This past month I packed up my little bag, tucked my insecurity into the glove box and drove south to Wimberley, TX to participate in the Serious Writer Tour conference.

The sun shone, the chickens clucked and y’all, I’m here to tell you, it was a great day.

Carpets of Texas bluebells added beauty to my journey.

Here’s some of the conference highlights:

  1. Children’s writers are eight times more likely to be published in nonfiction. Wendy Lanier shared this fantastic statistic, plus a slew of information on the various types of nonfiction that are published (hint: it ain’t just biographies).

From trade to literary, commercial to persuasive, there’s plenty of flavors within the nonfiction realm to explore. Until this point, I hadn’t considered writing nonfiction. I think I (incorrectly) imagined the process being very similar to writing an encyclopedia. But I like researching. And in the middle grade arena, tapping this market first could help build your credibility.

  1. Contests. One of the many info nuggets dispensed by Michelle Medlock Adams was that contests matter. Why? Because agents and editors who are on the hunt often look specifically at – you guessed it – contest winners. And you can’t win if you don’t enter.
  1. Always be ready to pitch. I wasn’t expecting to have one-on-one time with acquisitions editor Rachel Lamonica Pellegrino from Little Lamb Books. But guess what? I got it. And when she asked what I was working on, friends, it wasn’t pretty. I messed up in every possible way.

After I stopped chewing on my feet, Ms. Pellegrino gracefully gave me constructive, actionable feedback. Even though it was ultimately a positive experience, I fumbled into an important life lesson. So let me serve as a cautionary tale: Do your prep work. Create a concise, thoughtful pitch. Rehearse it. Because you never know what kind of opportunities you’ll have. You want to put your best foot forward instead of shoving it firmly into your mouth.

BONUS ITEM:

  1. Get out of your comfort zone. If you’ve read along and thought “This is all well and good, but I could never go to anything like this. I’m ______,” allow me to gently and kindly take you by the shoulder and say “Yes you can.”  Not only can you, if you’re serious about writing, you should invest time and energy in learning new things about your craft.

At a writing workshop or conference, you’ll meet other writers. Confession: this intimidates me sometimes. But I remind myself that writers are my people. For every writer in the room, there’s a unique path that led them there. I don’t have to worry whether or not my path is like theirs. There’s room at the table for all of us.

What do you think? Are you planning to attend any conferences or workshops this year? Which ones?

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
Writing Conference

Christian Writing Conferences (USA) July 2015 – Feb 2016 (UPDATED)

Want a great investment idea for your writing career? Go to a Christian writers Conference. You will meet the best writers, get the best advice and meet other writers who will become your friends. Going to a conference is like a mental boot camp. Your brain will hurt, you will be exhausted but the result are worth it. Here is a short list of Christian conferences for the next few months. Remember, most of these conferences have scholarships.   I attended my first three from scholarship monies. You pay for travel, food and board.   It is well worth it. If you know of a Christian writing conference that is not on the list, please put it in the comments below.

UPDATED: ACFW Virginia Writer’s Conference: July 25th, Woodbridge, VA

Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference: July 29-August 1, Langhorne PA

Christian Indie Authors and Readers Conference: July 30- August 2, Davenport IA

UPDATED: Realm Makers: August 7-8, St. Louis, MO

Oregon Christian Writers Conference: August 10 – August 13, Portland, O

Atlanta’s Christian Writing Conference: August 20-22, 2015, Marietta, GA

Christian Communicators Conference: August 26-30, 2015, Asheville, NC.

American Christian Fiction Writers Conference: September 17-20, 2015, Grapevine, TX

Writer to Writer Conference: Sept 18-20 2015 Murfreesboro, TN

Breathe Christian Writers Conference: October 9-10, 2015, Grand Rapids, MI

Blue Ridge Christian Novelist Retreat: October 18-22, 2015, Ridgecrest, NC

Indiana Faith and Writing Conference: October 30-31, Anderson, IN

Next Step Writers Contreat: November 12-14, 2015, Albuquerque, NM

Writer to Writer Conference, February 5-7, 2016 Hershey PA

Writers Advance Boot Camp: February 19-21, 2016, Asheville, NC

 

Here are a few websites that display all conferences and retreats, both Christian and non-Christian.

awpwriter.org/wcc/directory_conferences_centers

writing.shawguides.com/Events

newpages.com/writers-resources/writing-conferences-events

Don’t forget to check Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Market Writers Guide for more listings.

You can purchase the guide here   www.jerryjenkins.com/guide