Tag: Writing tips

Five Dangers of Theological Training: Seminary in 5 — Orientation Part 2

Post author By Jake McCandless - The Ministry of Writing
Post date August 9, 2016

Image of stained glass taken by Andreas F. Borchert and labeled for reuse.

Save money. Learn theology. Become a better writer. Minister more effective. That’s my hope for you. In this second year of my column, The Ministry of Writing, I want to take you to seminary — writing seminary. If you have had the chance to go to seminary then let this be a refresher. If you haven’t please soak up this tuition free theological education given each month in 5 points. God has called you to write. You want to glorify Him and reach the world, but the problem is that we can easily be false teachers and not know it. This is why growing and learning in biblical and theological knowledge is vital to your writing ministry.

Disclaimer…

You are reading this because you want to be a better minister through your writing, and I believe that necessitates intentional biblical and theological training. That training does not have to be in a formal seminary, but the teaching must be correct. Last month I wrote on five reasons why you must receive training. Again I can’t stress enough the importance — when you go to a doctor and your physical life is on the line you definitely want someone who has been trained. Right? So shouldn’t we desire that as much or more with the minister who is sharing eternal life.

Even though I am strongly for theological training, I agree with your grandmother, uncle, neighbor, and that guy at church who has warned you that seminary messes up good ministers. Training can and has messed up good writers — good servants of the Lord. Yet the risk far outweighs the dangers, but I do want to warn you of five dangers of theological training.

The Five Dangers…

The Danger of Puffing Up (Pride & Self-Righteousness)

Not only is the danger realized by countless examples we have witnessed with our own eyes, but Scripture directly warns of this. In 1 Corinthians 8:1, we are warned that knowledge can puff up while love builds up. The difference between knowledge and love expressed in this passage seems to be on their reach beyond ourselves. Although our possession of knowledge can help others, it can also cause us to become prideful and full of ourselves. Yet, love for one another builds each other up in Christ.

The context of the passage is instruction on how these newly converted Christians should deal with eating meat that had been served to idols. Paul is trying to explain Christian liberty, but he knows legalism is the enemy of that liberty. It seems in history and today the religious people or churches who focus on knowledge and sincerity of doctrine tend to be those who are the most mean spirited. They are the churches full of truth, but void of love. This was the nature of the Pharisees in the Bible.

Not only can knowledge make one legalistic or not loving, but it can make one prideful.

Gaining knowledge through theological training does not have to puff one up or cause them to be legalistic, but the danger has been proven over and over.

2. Danger of Not Relying on God

This danger of theological training has been gained by personal experience, and I have heard others express the same sentiment. Although this is gained from experience, Scripture makes clear that as followers of Christ we are to rely on God. In John 5 we read Jesus say that He could do nothing without the Father. In which He was pointing to the God sized results. We can use human efforts, but only God can bring the supernatural harvest.

I would not trade the theological and ministry training I have received, but I look back on the early days of my preaching with great joy. I began preaching at 16 and had no clue with what to do. Armed with a Bible and an A-Z Topical Concordance I went to work. I have to rely on God for everything and He delivered. It was amazing messages were given to me more spontaneously. God showed me things in unique and surprising ways. Messages came to me almost verbatim. Then I had to pray through every aspect of any ministry work.

Through seminary I had a greater understanding of the Bible. I learned teaching and preaching techniques. I learned how to do it in my strength. I was a better preacher, but I struggle with the temptation to rely on my training and not God.

As a Christian writer you need theological and writing training, but still only God can bring the supernatural harvest and transformation that you desire to see. Rely on Him.

3. Danger of Doing Ministry in Own Strength and Not Letting the Spirit Work Through You

This is very similar to the last danger, but I share it to make a point. The more we learn, the better we get as writers and ministries, the more we get in the way of the Holy Spirit. Again it God who is the Lord of the harvest. We are just His workers. Although we may have learned to correctly divide the Word of God, and to effectively convey it in writing, we should still desire to see the Holy Spirit work.

4. Danger of Losing Your Own Personality

As you probably can tell from my writing, I was trained in preaching not writing. I had a preaching class in which you would preach before the class, and then the professor would you evaluate you. One particular professor pushed each of us to follow this certain pattern, I hated it. But we took it as the way one must preach. So I went through a phase where I threw out my creativity and sense of humor to preach a “certain way.” I lost my personality. This can happen in our writing. Training can push us to do it a particular way, but we still need to be us. Don’t lose your personality.

5. Danger of Losing Evangelistic Zeal

First and foremost you are ministering through writing because the Lord has called you to do so. Then I imagine the second reason is that you hope others would come to Christ and experience a relationship with Him. You are driven by your evangelistic zeal. I have watched over and over as fervent soul winners lost their fire in seminary as they became wrapped up in knowledge and forgot what mattered most. Don’t let that happen to you. Listen to this warning given by the Apostle Paul in 1 Timothy 1:6, “Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk.” Don’t get wrapped up in the secondary, please focus on the primary.

Promise Me…

Although there are dangers to theological training, you must still recieve training, but promise me that you will not lose your fire in the process. You only need to focus that fire.

Tags Christian writer, Christian writing, dangers of seminary, dangers of theological training, five dangers of seminary, Jake McCandless, seminary dangers, seminary for writers, seminary in 3 or 5, seminary in 5, writer, writing ideas, Writing Instruction, writing seminary, Writing tips

Uncategorized

When an Asset Becomes a Liability

Post author By Judy Hagey - Write Justified
Post date July 25, 2016
No Comments on When an Asset Becomes a Liability

The setting sold us. A property with mature trees and a creek running behind it. Even in March, with the trees still bare, we saw what could be: morning coffee on a shaded deck serenaded by a chorus of birds. We were confident that deer and other wildlife would be frequent guests.

The ink was barely dry on the mortgage papers when we learned about the special assessment. Built on private property to avoid city code restrictions, our home and several other structures in the development were built too close to the waterway. Erosion threatens to undermine their stability. What we considered our new home’s finest asset has become a $100,000+ liability

The thing we love has become the thing that costs—dearly. Or as my father likes to say, “Anticipation exceeded reality.” I hated hearing that as a child. It seemed to be setting us up for disappointment. I suspect he was trying to instill a life truth. For those of us who choose to spend all or a good portion of our life writing, it’s probably a good aphorism to keep in mind.

I doubt few writers expect to make the New York Times best seller list with their debut novel. Success stories like this are the exception rather than the rule. I believe most of us write, even if it’s only journaling, because it’s something we can’t not do. Whether we take pen in hand or type on a computer keyboard, putting ideas and thoughts on paper fulfills a longing. It satisfies something deep inside. Ed Cyzewski says in Write, Pray, Grow, “… writing provides a way to process and think deeply about difficult topics.” [bctt tweet=”Even if we only write to sort out our thoughts or ideas, there’s great value in it.” username=””]

Even so, the call to write for publication comes with certain assets and liabilities.

Those who see only the “glamour” of writing: the ability to set your own hours, work from anywhere, and the thrill of seeing your name in print, ought to be aware of the realities of the writing life:

Writers block is real. Many is the time I’ve sat down to write and came up empty. The perfectly worded phrase or concept I “wrote” as I drifted off to sleep the previous night is gone. My internal editor criticizes every word before it hits the paper—and I continue to stare at a blank screen wondering why I thought I could do this. Every writer experiences periods where the words and ideas vanish. Acknowledge it, call it by name, and walk away for a time. In fact, many writers suggest a walk or another type of diversion to get your mind working in other ways. The change of scenery and thought processes often triggers creativity.
Expect rejection. Unless or until you secure a book contract with a major publisher, you’ll be submitting book proposals or magazine articles with no assurance they will be accepted for publication. But you’re in good company. Kathryn Stockett submitted The Help 60 times before it was published; Stephen King’s Carrie was rejected 30 times; Beatrix Potter self-published The Tale of Peter Rabbit—before self-publishing was as easy as it is today. Persevere through rejection and learn not to take it personally.
Writing is a discipline. Some consider it a spiritual discipline like prayer. A discipline requires that you do something even when you don’t feel like it. Once it becomes a habit missing a day puts you off kilter. Certainly independent writers have more flexibility in setting a schedule than 9–5 employees, but they do need to discipline themselves to put in the time necessary to produce. For those still working the day job it likely means making time in an already fully-scheduled day to write. For some that’s early mornings. Others find they are more productive after everyone else in the household has gone to bed. Stay-at-home parents, like Cyzewski, have learned to make the most of down times in their children’s schedules and write in short blocks of time throughout the day. Learning what works for you and then cultivating the discipline to stick to it is critical to a writer’s success.

We’re still absorbing the blow of an unexpected expense. The good news is that because we are part of a homeowners association, the cost of the stabilization project will be shared equally by all members. Such is the value of community. Writers, too, need the encouragement and support of a writing community. A mentor, a critique group—in person or online—not only helps hone writing skills, but can serve as a counterpoint to the discouragement and self-doubt that often plague a writer. A writing community like A3 or Word Weavers just may be the greatest asset a writer has.

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Tags Almost an Author, asset, Creative Ideas, creativity, discipline, liability, rejection, Write Justified, writer's block, Writing tips

The Ministry of Writing

Why You Need Biblical Training: Seminary in 3 or 5 – Orientation Part 1

Post author By Jake McCandless - The Ministry of Writing
Post date July 24, 2016
5 Comments on Why You Need Biblical Training: Seminary in 3 or 5 – Orientation Part 1

Save money. Learn theology. Become a better writer. Minister more effective. That’s my hope for you. In this second year of my column, The Ministry of Writing, I want to take you to seminary — writing seminary. If you have had the chance to go to seminary then let this be a refresher. If you haven’t please soak up this tuition free theological education given each month in 3-5 points. God has called you to write. You want to glorify Him and reach the world the problem is that we can easily be false teachers and not know it. This is why growing and learning in biblical and theological knowledge is vital to your writing ministry.

My Seminary Testimony…

God gifts us all for the work He calls us to do. I wish God had gifted me to excel on the gridiron, baseball diamond, or with a guitar, but He saw fit to bless me with mad skills in the classroom. I was given a photographic memory and good reading comprehension. In High School, my God-give classroom gift drove the girls wild as you can imagine L.

During High School to add to my absolute coolnesity I was called to preach. At 16, I began preaching and working in ministry. I wanted to glorify God and set this world on fire with the Gospel. I gave up professional bass fishing dreams and went to a Bible College to study Bible and pastoring. But I told God and my family that I would go until a ministry opportunity came up then I was quitting school. Fortunately, God did not open that door until He opened my eyes to the importance of a minister being educated. I became convinced that if a doctor who deals with physical life has to go through so much training than one who deals with eternal life should do far more. It was crazy how I never put it together that I needed to use my nerd skills in ministry.

Now a formal education in seminary is not necessary, but learning the information that is taught in seminary is necessary for your ministry. It is also important that you are receiving the correct teaching.

So I hope the Holy Spirit will convict you as He did me. In this orientation I want to share five reasons why you need a theological education.

Orientation in 5 Points…

You Should Seek Biblical Training Because The “Ministers” in the Bible Received Training.

I challenge you to think of a leader in Scripture who was called by God to teach and share the Gospel who was not trained. Again they may have not sat in a classroom, but they were taught. Not only is there an absolute precedent of His servants being trained, but learning is valued throughout Scripture. Beginning in the given of the Law, Moses continually instructed the people to teach others and especially their children the precepts of God. In Deuteronomy 6:4-9, we read that parents were taught to teach their children the law everywhere they went. This importance of learning is expressed in the nature of the Books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes.

This value of training was made evident in its practice. Here is a short list of those who were trained for God’s work.

Moses was “educated” in the wilderness
Moses trained Joshua
Elijah trained Elisha
Eli trained Samuel
Jesus was “educated” in the wilderness
Jesus trained the disciples
Paul also had a wilderness time in Arabia
Paul trained leaders in his church plants.
Paul trained Timothy

You Should Seek Biblical Training Because of The Warnings of False Teachings and False Teachers.

The warnings given of false teachers in the New Testament is almost overwhelming. We find several in Jesus’ teachings in the Gospels. In Matthew 7, Jesus teaches false teachers can be spotted by their fruit. Jesus later teaches that it would be better for a false teacher to have a millstone hung around their neck and be thrown in the sea than to lead little ones astray. The battle Jesus had with the Pharisees and Sadducees centered on their false teaching.

The Epistles in the New Testament are devoted to warning of false teachers. Here are some chapters where such warnings are given: Romans 16, 1 Cor. 2, 2 Cor. 13, all of Galatians, Ephesians 6, all of Colossians, 1 Thess. 5, all of 2 Thessalonians, all of 1 Timothy, all of 2 Timothy, Hebrews 13. Then all of 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, Jude, and most of Revelation.

False teaching is also warned against in the Old Testament. This is seen in the Balaam scenario and in the problem of idolatry.

We need to know the truth so that we are not false teachers. We also need to have the truth to combat false teaching.

You Should Seek Biblical Training Because The Call of a Minister Includes the Call to an Education.

Timothy’s call which is not much different than the call of ours, is found in 2 Timothy 2:15:

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV84)

Did you catch that Timothy was not only to share the Gospel and help others, but he was called to correctly divide the truth. One has to be trained to do this. The best course I took in helping me correctly divide Scripture was hermeneutics. This will be our monthly course in September.

You Should Seek Biblical Training Because The Nature of How God Works Through Us Necessitates It.

2 Timothy 3:16 and 2 Peter 1:20-21 detail how God works in us.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, – 2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV84)

Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. – 2 Peter 1:20–21 (NIV84)

Yes, the Holy Spirit inspires us and carries us through our writing, but God uses what we have in us. In all the writings in Scripture the personalities and education of the Bible writers show through. You will be a better tool in God’s hand if as He “carries” you along in the Spirit, you have a strong theological training for Him to utilize.

You Should Seek Biblical Training Because We are Held to a High Standard.

James 3:1 says it all,

Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. – James 3:1 (NIV84)

Tags Almost an Author, bible training for writers, Christian writer, Christian writing, Jake McCandless, seminary in 3 or 5, theological training for writer, writer, writing seminary, Writing tips

Dear Young Scribes

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

Post author By Tessa Emily Hall - Becoming an Author
Post date July 21, 2016
No Comments on How to Choose, Develop, & Research a Setting: Part 2

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

Here’s how you can research your setting:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

            Anywhere but here. ”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember:

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

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

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

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

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

Tags creative writing, emotion, mood, protagonist, Purple Moon, Research, Setting, Writing Craft, Writing tips

Craft Writing with Humor

Thou Shalt Commandments For Writing With Humor

Post author By Jean Wilund - Writing with Humor
Post date June 27, 2016
2 Comments on Thou Shalt Commandments For Writing With Humor

Click to learn the two greatest commandments for writing with humor

Thou Shalt write with humor.

But how?

By following these two commandments from humor author James N. Watkins:

I. Thou Shalt Know Thy Audience

When you know your audience, you understand how far you can take your humor. You know the envelope.

Once you know the envelope, push it.

Humor that surprises — not horrifies — your audience works best.

Each audience has its nuances.

What makes a group of writers chuckle might fall flat with a group of doctors.

What works in an article written for teenagers may leave a group of seniors scratching their 80-year old heads, or worse, wagging them in disdain.

II. Thou Shalt Not Be Ungracious

Turn on the news and opportunities to poke fun at someone will present itself in short order.

Someone in Somewhere, USA will have proved yet again a Murphy’s Law of the South which states,

Whenever a guy utters, “Hey y’all, watch this!” something stupid is about to happen that will end in a 911 call.

Watkins encourages writers to ridicule behavior, not people.

If you want to make fun of someone, make fun of yourself.

Watkins’ took his inspiration for this great commandment from the Bible. “Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person” (Colossians 4:6).

Obey Watkins’ commandments for writing with humor and you’ll entertain your readers, not lose them.

[bctt tweet=”Follow The 2 Greatest Commandments For Writing With #Humor #AmWriting #Author” username=”JeanWilund”]

Check out James Watkins’ website Hope and Humor as well as his book Writing with Banana Peels.

Tags Christian writer, James N Watkins, Jean Wilund, writers, Writing Instruction, Writing tips, Writing with Humor

Grammar and Grace

Aid for Comma Splices

Post author By Hope Toler Dougherty-Grammar and Grace
Post date June 23, 2016
No Comments on Aid for Comma Splices

A writing acquaintance of mine recently posted about her disdain of the comma splice, more importantly, the proliferation of this punctuation error in today’s printed materials.

Here’s an easy definition of a comma splice: the misuse of a comma to join two independent clauses (two sentences).

I bought new yarn yesterday, I already have fifteen skeins waiting for me to crochet.

In the above sentence, the comma comes between the two sentences. Wrong!

Here are easy fixes.

I bought new yarn yesterday. I already have fifteen skeins waiting for me to crochet. (Break the two independent clauses into two sentences.)

I bought new yarn yesterday, but I already have fifteen skeins waiting for me to crochet. (The comma plus a coordinating conjunction—and, but, or, nor, for, yet, so—can correctly join two sentences with the comma placed before the conjunction.)

I bought new yarn yesterday; I already have fifteen skeins waiting for me to crochet. (The *semi-colon is a stronger than the comma and can separate two sentences by itself.)

I bought new yarn yesterday; however, I already have fifteen skeins waiting for me to crochet. (The semi-colon precedes a conjunctive adverb and then a comma.)

*Some fiction writers avoid using the semi-colon.

Tags Almost an Author, Christian writer, Comma Splices, editing, Hope Toler Dougherty, writing, Writing tips

Dear Young Scribes

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

Post author By Tessa Emily Hall - Becoming an Author
Post date June 19, 2016
No Comments on How to Choose, Develop, & Research a Setting: Part 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

When choosing a setting, ask yourself:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tags mood, Research, Setting, symbolism, teen writers, theme, writing advice, Writing Craft, writing techniques, Writing tips

Uncategorized Write Justified

Confused No More

Post author By Judy Hagey - Write Justified
Post date June 11, 2016
3 Comments on Confused No More

As an editor, I frequently encounter homonym errors. Someone writes whether when they intend weather. Or peek when the context calls for peak. Some are humorous. Others convey the opposite meaning of what the author intends.

I could write a post on the confused word uses I’ve corrected. But it might be more endearing if I come clean and ‘fess up to some pairs that confuse me.

Affect-Effect

This pair usually sends me to the dictionary to verify I’m using them correctly. It helps to remember that affect is a verb that means to make an impact on or cause a change.

The change in weather affected Fred’s arthritis.

Summer construction affects traffic patterns and travel times.

Effect can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun it means to bring about, or the result of an action. In this usage, it is usually followed by the preposition on.

The effect of divorce on children can be life-changing.

Scientists warn that the effects of climate change may be rising sea levels and greater temperature variations.

In the plural, effects, refers to belongings, possessions.

All the family’s personal effects were lost in the flood.

Used as a verb effect means to bring about, cause, or accomplish.

The new administrator wasted no time in effecting his own policies and procedures.

Lower interest rates effected stronger home sales.

If you remember that affect is a verb and effect a noun, you’ll be correct in most common usages.

Elicit – Illicit

I don’t recall the precise sentence, but its purpose was to encourage a response. What I actually wrote invited the reader to do something illegal. I had written illicit when I should have used elicit.

Elicit is a transitive verb meaning to draw out or bring forth. It requires a direct object.

Melanie’s antics elicited a reluctant smile from her grandmother.

Smile is the direct object of the verb elicited. Melanie’s actions drew a smile out of grandma.

Elicit also carries the meaning of bringing something hidden to light.

Brandon’s counseling sessions elicited his fear of failure.

Talking confidentially to someone can be a healthy way to discover and overcome such fears.

Illicit, on the other hand, is an adjective meaning illegal or unlawful. You will often see it used to describe the illegal use of drugs or sex. Dictionary.com also includes a second meaning: “disapproved or not permitted for moral or ethical reasons.” That may explain the frequent pairing with drugs and sex.

Compliment – complement

Only one vowel separates the spelling of these two, but that simple letter changes the meaning considerably.

I pay someone a compliment when I tell them their hair (or shoes, or dress) look good on them.

Although the Oxford English Dictionary suggests a compliment usually includes some hypocrisy, Merriam Webster defines a compliment as a formal expression of esteem, respect, affection, or admiration.

A compliment can also be an expression of good wishes or regards.

Give my compliments to your parents.

The adjective, complimentary, means a gift or gratuity.

The new president gave a complimentary paperweight to each guest at the inauguration.

A complement, however, is something (or someone) that completes or makes whole.

Allison’s pink scarf complements her green dress and red hair.

With the vice president’s arrival, the full complement of PTA officers was in attendance.

These three sets of homonyms hardly comprise the full complement of commonly confused homonyms, but I hope the effect of this post elicits greater understanding.

Tags affect, Almost an Author, complement, compliment, confused, editing, effect, elicit, homonyms, illicit, noun, verb, writer, writing, Writing tips

Child's Craft

Overcoming Obstacles

Post author By Jill Roman Lord - A Child's Craft
Post date June 2, 2016
No Comments on Overcoming Obstacles

Obstacles. Disguised in various ways, they reveal the same evil – blocks to what we want to achieve or to where we want to go.

When I first began running, I recall my first 5K race. As I struggled up a grueling hill, an old woman (probably younger than I am today, but old to my young eyes back then…) flew up next to me, slowed her pace even with mine for long enough to say, “Child, lift your knees just a little bit higher to get up the hills and focus on the pavement, not the top of the hill.” With that, she soared on past.

Since that day, I lift my knees just a little bit higher and focus on the pavement with every hill I face. That was over 30 years ago. Hills are not grueling obstacles for me anymore. While I can’t say I enjoy them, I know how to manage them.

I wondered if I could apply this sage advice to other obstacles in my life. So I broke down the elements of her tactic.

Lift knees higher. This might equate to working harder. Seriously? Sometimes I work like crazy and still face obstacles. I can’t work any harder. Maybe it equates with trying something different. If the same stride isn’t working, try something new.

Focus on the pavement. Perhaps I should stay focused on the task at hand. Don’t keep my eyes on the seemingly impossible goal and all the hard work it takes to get there, but enjoy every step of the way and I’ll eventually get there.

So, what obstacles are you facing in your writing? What prevents you from getting to your finish line? Do you have writers block? Impossible deadlines? Can’t find the right word to fit your cadence? Can’t find the time? Too many words for your children’s book? Having trouble finding an agent or a publisher? Today I’ll offer a few suggestions.

Run. I think running fixes just about everything, but if you don’t run, then try walking, biking, or exercise to get your positive endorphins flowing. There are numerous studies backing up God’s amazing endorphins and the creativity linked with them. Here is one you can read. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/science-news/10491702/Lacking-inspiration-Exercise-found-to-boost-creativity.html. Some of my best writing ideas were inspired during my runs. Check with your doctor first if you haven’t exercised in a while.

Get away from your computer and get out into God’s world. Sit outside. Breathe in the fresh air. Running outside takes care of this one too. Get the fresh oxygen flowing through your veins to fuel your body and your brain. This change of scenery, may ignite the imagination and get your creative juices flowing. It may clear the mind to start fresh when you return to your task. Even if you’re struggling with making a deadline, getting fresh air and exercise may be just what you need.

Write in a different place. Don’t trap yourself in your office, no matter how peaceful or productive it has been in the past. If it isn’t working for you at the moment, try a different location. Go to another room in your house, Starbucks, or Panera.

Keep writing. Thankfully that lady didn’t tell me to quit running and go home. She wanted to help me through the obstacle of what I was already doing. So keep writing.

In future blogs, we’ll discuss other ways to manage the obstacles we face with writing. But for now, keep lifting those knees a bit higher and focus on the pavement, not the obstacle looming before you.

Share what obstacles you may be facing below and if you have the solution for another’s obstacle, share that below as well.

Tags creativity, deadlines, endorphins, focus, obstacles in writing, writer's block, Writing tips

Craft Writing with Humor

Three Tips for Collecting a Wealth of Humorous Material

Post author By Jean Wilund - Writing with Humor
Post date May 23, 2016
1 Comment on Three Tips for Collecting a Wealth of Humorous Material

Click to read 3 Tips for Collecting a Wealth of Humorous Material (@JeanWilund)

Comedians Jerry Seinfeld and Michael Jr. may never suffer from comedic block, but those of us less endowed with a sharp wit and the skills to use them know the pain too well.

It’s hard enough to elicit a laugh, much less on a deadline.

Ensure you never get caught without the perfect line. Follow these three tips for collecting a wealth of material from which to draw:

1. Make A Note ASAP

Everyday life creates hilarious moments, but if we can’t remember them, they’re as useful as an award-winning BBQ recipe in a vegan cookbook.

How do we keep the treasure trove of humorous material from disappearing into the abyss of forgetfulness? Write it down. ASAP.

Using an old-fashioned, time-tested method, strategically scatter notepads and pens around your house, perhaps next to all your reading glasses.

A more modern and convenient method takes advantage of the technology we carry with us everywhere — even into the restroom. Our smart phone.

On iPhone, tell Siri to “Make a note.” It’s quick and easy. Plus, whatever Siri thinks we said may wind up creating even funnier material.

Don’t feel like talking to Siri? Use a tape recorder app. Or, avoid receiving the look in public by shooting off a text or email to yourself. The text or email, sitting unopened in your phone or laptop, will also act as a reminder to transfer the story or thought into your Humor notebook.

Locking the anecdotes and one-liners into my cell phone protects memorable moments from getting booted out of my short term memory by my immediate need to remember where I parked my car.

2. Create a Humor File and Notebook

Take an old-fashioned file folder and notebook, label them, and fill them with anything that strikes you as humorous.

At least once a week print out your text messages, emails and Siri notes and drop them into the file folder or copy them into your notebook.

As much as I love old fashioned pen and paper, I’m hooked on modern technology. The “search” function alone won me over. It makes finding a specific gem of wit easier than flipping through a thick notebook or drawer stuffed with scraps of paper.

My current favorite tool for collecting and organizing note-worthy material is Evernote. It’s available as an app and on-line, and it syncs across your devices. The free version offers all we need to keep saved information at our fingertips.

3. Write Down One Thought or Memory A Day

Form the daily habit of writing down at least one anecdote, thought, or simile into your notebook. It doesn’t have to be funny. You can work with it later and make it funny.

I keep my notebook by my bed. Each night I write at least one thing into it. Daily intentionality can become an involuntary, and helpful, habit later.

With a stash of memories, quotes, and stories within reach, half of our work is done.

Over time we’ll have gathered a wealth of material from which to draw when a humorous line is needed, because struggling to think of a clever simile on demand is as hard as . . . as . . . oh, never mind.

[bctt tweet=”Three Tips for Collecting a Wealth of Humorous Material #AmWriting #Humor #AlmostAnAuthor” username=””]

Tags Almost an Author, humor, Jean Wilund, Writing tips

The Ministry of Writing

Better Understand God’s Instruction — Try Triangulation

Post author By Jake McCandless - The Ministry of Writing
Post date May 21, 2016
2 Comments on Better Understand God’s Instruction — Try Triangulation

Labeled for reuse from https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c5/Waas.png

As a Christian writer in your life or in your writing it is not merely about what you want to say or do. You are an ambassador of Christ. You are a soldier in His command. Therefore, you should be seeking Him consistently, walking in the Spirit so that you know His instructions.

I have no doubt that you are doing this, but being certain we are understanding the Spirit’s guidance is not always that easy. We can hear His voice. We can know that voice as we read in John 10. This is not so much a science, but is an art. It is something that is developed over time. Hearing God’s voice and being certain it is something you can continue to do better.

One way you could do this better is through triangulation.

I highly doubt you have heard this term in a sermon, but maybe you have heard it in an overly technical explanation about your cell phone or a GPS.

I grew up fishing on a local lake. One side of that lake was wide-open with no apparent landmarks on the surface, but underneath there were some serious honey-holes. The trick became finding those spots again after catching fish there the trip before. So to help find those spots we would locate a landmark on the shore. For example, we might chose to line up with the old concrete plant’s smokestack.

The issue would be the smokestack might put us close to the fishing hole, but not exactly. We could be in a three hundred yard circle of the key spot that was no bigger than a bucket. If we added another landmark then we would get closer. So maybe the smokestack on the east and the fourth buoy in the south. Those landmarks would get us close, but still not exactly where we wanted to be, but three landmarks put us exactly where we needed to be. The smokestack on the east, the fourth buoy in the south, and the boat ramp to the west — and we would find that exact spot. The three points of reference created a triangle.

Now days we don’t work so hard. The honey-hole is marked in our GPS and we can go right to it. The reason the GPS works so well is not because a signal from one satellite is locating us, but there are signals from at least three. The GPS uses the same principle of triangulation.

So now back to us hearing God’s voice. How many points of reference are you using to determine His instructions to you?

God speaks to us through the Holy Spirit dwelling inside of us, through His Word, through circumstances, and through other believers. All though through each source of His voice we can know all we need to know, it can be easy to misinterpret. But if we are consistently allowing multiple avenues in which for His voice to speak into our lives, when they line up we can be certain we are hearing clearly.

Each day as I have my “quiet time” with the Lord I don’t rely on just one avenue, but I try to allow for triangulation. I have a prayer journal in which I write my morning prayer and I write down what I feel the Spirit may be speaking to me. I also list circumstances that I believe may be important in determining His Will. So that is the point of reference of the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

During my morning quiet time I read a portion of Scripture. This is a point of reference from His Word. I also try to find a reading plan that someone else has designed that way each day’s reading is objective. If left to me to pick passages I am going to consistently go to Jeremiah 29:11 and dream of that next book contract.

I also do one or two devotional type study books. This I refer to as my teacher point of reference. I am letting God use a teacher to speak into my life. I try to do two such books at a time. I like to have one that is more inspirational and then one that is more doctrine focused. I say a fun one and a boring one.

You may say all this is over kill, but by having usually four avenues for God to speak into my life if they all line up in some way then I feel with certainty I am hearing correctly. Now they don’t always line up, but when they do — triangulation works and I better understand God’s instruction.

Tags Author, Christian writer, Christian writing, devotional, encouragement, hearing God's voice, Knowing God's will, quiet time, seeking God, Writing Inspiration, Writing Instruction, Writing tips

Grammar and Grace Uncategorized

Dangling Modifiers

Post author By Hope Toler Dougherty-Grammar and Grace
Post date May 9, 2016
10 Comments on Dangling Modifiers

Last month, I overheard a conversation about dangling modifiers. Lots of laughter. Lots of confusion. Lots of questions.

“What’s a dangling modifier?” “Wait. What’s a modifier?”

Let me explain.

A modifier adds description to a sentence. A modifier can be a word, a phrase, or a clause. In English, the modifier usually appears right before the noun it’s describing, but sometimes we find the modifier right after the word it describes.

Terrified, Penny prayed during the bumpy flight, which passed through a thunderstorm.

In the above sentence, terrified comes before Penny and describes her state of mind. Bumpy precedes flight. Which passed through a thunderstorm comes after flight.

In a dangling modifier situation, the modifier is placed near the wrong word. The construction makes the sentence confusing. Because the modifier doesn’t have a word to hang onto, it dangles, not attached to anything in the sentence.

Crushed by the Dear John text, the chocolate cake beckoned to Nancy from the countertop.

Crushed by the Dear John text comes before chocolate cake. Cake is the noun it’s supposed to modify, but cakes can’t be crushed by a Dear John text.

Here’s a correct way of writing the sentence: Crushed by the Dear John text, Nancy ate the chocolate cake that beckoned to her from the countertop.

Nancy is a person who can by crushed by a text, so the modifier is describing the correct word.

Try another one.

Thrilled by the letter of acceptance, the party plans commenced right away.

Plans can’t be thrilled. Thrilled by the letter of acceptance is dangling.

Write instead:

Thrilled by the letter of acceptance, Jordan commenced planning his party.

How about a one-word dangling modifier?

Sleepy, the bed looked inviting.

Do you see the problem? Bed can’t be sleepy.

A correct version would be—Sleepy, I crawled into the comfy bed.

When you start looking for dangling modifiers, you can find them easily, and a lot of times, they make for some funny sentences.

Have you found a dangling modifier lately that you can share in the comments? Please do!

Tags Almost an Author, editing, Grammar, grammar and grace, Hope Toler Dougherty, writing, Writing tips

Uncategorized Write Justified

When 2 + 2 Still Don’t = 4

Post author By Judy Hagey - Write Justified
Post date April 26, 2016
No Comments on When 2 + 2 Still Don’t = 4

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of plurals (see 2 + 2 Doesn’t Always = 4), let’s look at some more exceptions to the rules of pluralization.

For some reason, proper nouns or names often trip folks up. There’s no need, really. The plurals of proper names, including family names that end in s follow the same rules as regular nouns: add s or es.

A month of Sundays
The two Germanys reunited in the 1990s.
All the Johnnys and Marys raised their hands.

The same pluralization rules apply to family names as to regular nouns – add s, or in the case of proper nouns/names that end in s, x, z, ch, or sh, add es:

The Kennedys aspired to public service.
The Browns vacationed in Hawaii.
The Joneses live on Pleasant Avenue.
The Martinezes have four children.

BUT nicknamed geographical terms:

Rocky Mountains becomes the Rockies
Smokey Mountains becomes the Smokies

You will often see proper names pluralized with an apostrophe s, but don’t you try it. Adding an apostrophe makes nouns possessive, not plural.

We should also talk about letters, numerals, and abbreviations as well as common phrases used as nouns. If you follow the KISS rule (Keep It Simple, Sweetie), you will be right 99 percent of the time:

Add an s to abbreviations such as CDs, JPEGs, IRAs, and FAQs

BUT when lower case letters are forming plurals, use an apostrophe (only to aid comprehension).

Mind your p’s and q’s
Dot your i’s and cross your t’s

Add an s to numerals, including years or decades such as: 7s, 1990s, 1000s

Some hyphenated words or phrases are not nouns, but can be used as nouns; these form a plural by adding s.

Ifs, ands, or buts
Thank-yous
Twos and threes
Dos and don’ts

And finally, those lovely words we’ve adopted from the classical Latin and Greek. Although these plurals may not come naturally to most English speakers, they do follow a pattern.

Greek

Singular ending	Plural ending
on (criterion, phenomenon)	a (criteria, phenomena)
ma (stigma)	mata (stigmata)

Latin

Singular endings	Plural endings
a (alumna, larva)	ae (alumni, larvae)
us (fungus, radius)	ii (fungii, radii)
um (datum, memorandum)	a (data, memoranda)
is (basis, thesis)	es (bases, theses)
x (matrix)	ce (matrice)

And when all else fails, do what I do. Refer to the dictionary. You do keep one handy, don’t you?

Tags Almost an Author, irregular, Judy Hagey, nouns, Plurals, Write Justified, Writing tips

Blogging Basics

Five Key Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Blogging

Post author By Donna L.H. Smith-Managing Editor
Post date April 25, 2016
No Comments on Five Key Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Blogging

Beginning bloggers face a steep learning curve that can seem overwhelming. Because there’s so much to learn, it’s easy to begin blogging without a clear plan and purpose. Really, it’s enough to make your head spin: SEO, format, technical, style, social media, length, graphics, and more. The list seems endless.

When I started blogging, I didn’t have a clear vision of I wanted to accomplish. I had a general topic, but lacked a well-developed focus. Over time, I’ve learned through mistakes, training, and example. Start out strong with five key things I wish I knew when I started blogging.

[bctt tweet=”Five Key Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Blogging”]

Give yourself permission to grow over time.

Fight the temptation to be overwhelmed with all the details.
Let go of perfectionism and remember everyone walks one step at a time.
Refuse to negatively compare your blog or traffic with others.
Subscribe to writing blogs for practical tips and tutorials for ongoing development.

Know your why. Take time to think through the reasons you’re blogging. Examine your motivation with prayer. You need a stronger why than building a platform and generating high traffic. Platform and traffic are good goals, but writing for the numbers can be discouraging. Consider these questions:

How does God want to use your writing?
What is your purpose for blogging?
What do you hope to do?
Why is this important to you?
How do your experiences, knowledge, and passions fit with your calling to write?

Focus your blog. A well-focused blog makes it easy readers to know your passion at a glance. The average reader decides within 30 seconds if content is relevant to their interests. Use these tips to focus your blog.

Craft a strong mission or brand statement you can work with long term.
Choose 3-6 main topics that relate to your purpose.
Brainstorm ideas that fall under each topic.
Keep your mission statement in mind when you write.
Make your focus clear at first glance with structure and graphics that present your topic.

Understand the difference between a category and a tag. Categories and tags can sort content by subject rather than chronological order. Categories are broad topics supporting your why, or your mission statement. “Your blog’s categories are like its elevator speech. Make it happen without excess,” explains Julie R. Neidlinger. Tags are more specific than categories and relate to specific details of your post.

Be strategic in choosing your categories.
Use categories and tags to make it easy for the reader to find content.
The use of tags is optional and not limited in number.
Don’t overuse tags; WordPress recommends less than 15 in a post.

Aim for brand consistency. Refer to your brand statement in most of your posts for a cohesive, focused site. Brand statement, categories, and blog content should all work together.

Place your mission statement in a visible spot to remind you to tie your post to your brand.
Keep a list of words, phrases, and concepts that support each category. Use these consistently in your posts whenever possible.
Before publishing, double check each post for a clear connection to your why or your mission statement.

[bctt tweet=”Refer to your brand statement in most blog posts for a cohesive, focused website.”]

These tips will help you quickly overcome many of the content and organizational challenges new bloggers face. Stay focused on the purpose of your blog, the why that motivates and energizes you. Share your passion with the world with an organized and clearly structured site. Be patient, aim for steady growth and celebrate each new skill mastered. Understanding how to write a clear mission statement and organize your blog will but you ahead of many beginning bloggers.

Tags blogging tips, Brand statement, Christian blogger, Ginger Harrington, Writing purpose, Writing tips

Craft Writing with Humor

One Word Can Make All the Difference Between Funny or Ho Hum

Post author By Jean Wilund - Writing with Humor
Post date April 24, 2016
2 Comments on One Word Can Make All the Difference Between Funny or Ho Hum

One Word Can Make the Difference Between Funny or Ho Hum. Click to read Three Tips to Help.

One word can make all the difference between funny or ho-hum.

For instance, let me introduce you to four kids:

Faith, Hope, Joy, and Jack.

The name Jack is so unexpected, I can’t help but chuckle. It’s the difference between funny and a just list of names.

Check out these three tips for choosing the right word:

1. Choose An Unexpected Word

We’ve already seen the effectiveness of this technique.

As we hear the names Faith, Hope, and Joy, our minds jump to thoughts of virtuous children with commendable attributes.

Then we hear the name Jack.

It’s a fine name, but it’s not expected, so it makes us laugh.

Consider Beatrix Potter’s garden-loving rabbits: Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton-Tail, and Peter. Right away we know Peter is going to be different. He doesn’t disappoint.

2. Choose A Word with a “K” Sound

“Fifty-seven years in this business, you learn a few things. You know what words are funny and which words are not funny. Alka-Seltzer is funny. You say ‘Alka-Seltzer’, you get a laugh… Words with ‘k’ in them are funny. Casey Stengel, that’s a funny name. Robert Taylor is not funny. Cupcake is funny. Tomato is not funny. Cookie is funny. Cucumber is funny…Cleveland… Cleveland is funny. Maryland is not funny.” (Willy Clark, The Sunshine Boys)

The name Jack makes the “k” sound. According to Willy Clark, that makes it funny. I think he’s right. If their names were Faith, Hope, Joy, and Jeff, that would be funny, but Jack is funnier.

3. Put the Funniest Word at the End

The punchline always belongs at the end. Ba-dum bump. Humor 101.

Faith, Jack, Hope, and Joy is just a list of children. Ho-hum. (No offense to Faith, Jack, Hope, and Joy.)

Faith, Hope, Joy, and Jack. That’s funny.

Pay close attention to word choice, and it will pay off in laughs. Just one word can make all the difference.

[bctt tweet=”One Word Can Make All the Difference Between Funny or Ho Hum. Learn 3 tips how.”]

Tags Almost an Author, humor, Jean Wilund, writing, Writing tips

Grammar and Grace

Five Words or Phrases to Avoid

Post author By Hope Toler Dougherty-Grammar and Grace
Post date April 17, 2016
2 Comments on Five Words or Phrases to Avoid

Lots of time we hear verbal patterns that may be acceptable (to some people) in speech, but they are considered ungrammatical in the written word. Below are five examples of words or phrases to avoid in your written communications.

Being as/Being that–Don’t use in place of because or since.

Being as the cake was frosted, we had to eat it. Wrong

Because the cake was frosted, we had to eat it. Correct

Can’t hardly—This phrase is a double negative and not acceptable in standard English.

I can’t hardly wait for the first day of summer. Wrong

I can hardly wait for the first day of summer. Correct

I can’t wait for the first day of summer. Correct

Could of/Should of/Would of—These expressions are ungrammatical uses of could have, should have, and would have. They probably originate from the contractions in speech, could’ve, should’ve, and would’ve. Use the proper form in written English.

Different from/Different Than—The correct usage is different from, not different than.

North Carolina eastern style barbeque is different from western style.

Due to—This expression is a wordy construction. Use because

Due to the fact that Duke lost the game, the team didn’t advance. Wordy

Because Duke lost the game, the team didn’t advance. Much better

Clean up your manuscripts by avoiding these ungrammatical expressions. Clean up your speech patterns by avoiding them, too.

Happy writing!

Tags Almost an Author, editing, Grammar, grammar and grace, Hope Toler Dougherty, writing, Writing Instruction, Writing tips

Child's Craft

What Children’s Publishers Want

Post author By Jill Roman Lord - A Child's Craft
Post date April 11, 2016
2 Comments on What Children’s Publishers Want

What do children’s publishers want? That is the question that all children’s writers long to have answered. What is the magic formula for writing a book that is sure to get published? There is nothing sure in publishing but I’ve scoured the internet and attended numerous conferences in search for that answer. I’ve compiled my findings into three categories of what I call the CUT factors. If our stories don’t include the CUT factors, they are more likely to be “cut” from a publishers list of “possibly publishable” books. This is what I’ve discovered, but keep in mind these are guidelines and not guarantees of contracts.

The CUT Factors:

The NUT factor. This means our stories must be entertaining and fresh, maybe a little nutty. Picture books should be enjoyable for adults and children because if the parent doesn’t like reading the book, it won’t be read. The stories could be nutty, funny, amusing, mysterious, joyful, playful, deep, other-worldly as in taking the reader away from this reality, or thought provoking and meaningful. Christine Tangvald, an author of a gazillion Christian children’s books, used to teach a Children’s Writers class at a Christian Writers Conference and talked about the Pizzazz factors. These included ways of energizing our writing to create an atmosphere of suspense, action, adventure, awe, wonder, gentleness, exaggeration, triumph, etc. We should aim to create moods like these.

You’ve heard the scripture that there is nothing new under the sun. Then what do we write to create fresh stories? We should write our passions, whatever gets us excited. What lights our fire? What makes our hearts sing? What moves us or what do we find amusing? We should write that and write it from our hearts. It’s our job to find new twists to old themes. To help kids view the world differently or to look at common elements in a new light, then we should add a new twist to that. Shouldn’t we strive to make our stories so enticing that the readers will want to turn the pages, so that they are longing to see what’s next? We should create new worlds for them in the pages of our books. Maybe they’re nutty worlds, maybe they’re not. But they should be entertaining and fresh. That’s what we write. Nothing less.

The WHAT factor. Our stories must answer the “so what?” question in that it must be educational in some way. The key is educational, not preachy. Children get preached to all day long from parents, teachers, baby sitters, older siblings. They know when they’re being lectured and taught right from wrong. We don’t want to do that outright. But there should be some sort of ‘take home’ message whether they realize it or not. Our job is to get our message across in a fun, unpreachy, and almost un-educational way. Why should a publisher spend upwards of $100,000 publishing your picture book? Novels cost less, but still a substantial amount. What is the point? Is it a deeper understanding of a Biblical truth? A moral action? A lesson in how to treat others? Maybe your story is so fun and entertaining it simply shows children that books and reading are fun. We just don’t want parents and children finishing our books saying, “So what?” We want to leave them with an emotion, a new thought, a powerful message. Somehow make them wiser, smarter, safer, calmer, more aware. Let’s leave the readers somehow better people because they’ve read our books.

The GUT factor. Gary Richardson, an amazing man and previous (late) editor at a Christian Publishing house taught a Children’s Book Writing class at a conference I attended years ago. He said that at their publishing house they always looked for the GUT factor in manuscripts. So this is a real thing. He said they looked for stories that brought tears to their eyes, that made them laugh, made them squirm or jump, that somehow touched their hearts or elicited gut reactions. Those are the stories they would pursue. There must be an ‘aha’ moment somewhere. Maybe it’s an unusual ending or a funny, unanticipated twist in the drama. We should write the unexpected. We want to leave the reader changed somehow, maybe refreshed. Maybe elicit emotions they hadn’t felt in a while, maybe leave them laughing hysterically, or left more aware. We want the reader longing to read it again and more than excited to share our books with friends so that they too, may be changed for the better.

That, my friends, is why we write. That is a sampling of what publishers want. If you are an editor or publisher and desire different criteria, please let us know below. Thanks!

Tags children's writing, creativity, what publishers want, Writing tips

Write Justified

2 + 2 Doesn’t Always Equal 4

Post author By Judy Hagey - Write Justified
Post date March 18, 2016
No Comments on 2 + 2 Doesn’t Always Equal 4

Students of English learn quickly that to every rule, there is an exception; sometimes the exception is the rule. That appears to be the case when forming plurals.

Most nouns form their plural by adding s or es:

toys
books
blocks
cups
cars

Words that end in s, x, z, ch, or sh add es (as well as another syllable) to form their plurals.

boxes
houses
hunches
wishes
whizzes (note the double z)

Things get a little more complicated with words that end in f or o. Words that end in f usually form the plural by turning the f to v and adding es:

wife – wives
knife – knives
half – halves
shelf – shelves

BUT here are a couple of exceptions:

roof – roofs
safe – safes (so as not to be confused with the present tense of the verb save).

Words ending in o also present challenges. (Just ask Dan Quayle). Some add es, others only s

hero – heroes
potato – potatoes (This is the one that tripped up Vice President Quayle)
echo – echoes

BUT

ego – egos
portfolio – portfolios

The best thing to do with these regularly irregular plural forms is to consult the dictionary. And even then, be aware that some words have two acceptable plural forms with corresponding and distinct meanings.

The plural of staff—staffs—means a group of people. But the plural of the musical notation staff is staves.

Mediums are people with paranormal powers; media are artistic materials.

And what about hyphenated compound nouns like daughter-in-law and babe-in-arms? The answer is pretty simple. Add s to the noun portion of the compound: daughters-in-law, babes-in-arms.

Solid compounds are considered regular nouns and take an s: cupfuls, spoonfuls, handfuls, teaspoonfuls

Open compounds like attorney general also add s to the key noun: attorneys general.

The general rule—regardless of whether the compound noun is hyphenated, two words or closed—is to make the principle word plural. Another way to think of it is to pluralize the element that is subject to change in number.

Next month I’ll tackle some of the other exceptional ways to make plurals: including proper nouns, abbreviations and initialisms, and everybody’s favorite—English words adopted from the classical languages.

Tags Christian writing, compound words, exceptions to the rule, hypenated words, irregular plurals, Plurals, Writing tips

Grammar and Grace Uncategorized

Five More Confusing Word Pairs to Consider

Post author By Hope Toler Dougherty-Grammar and Grace
Post date March 12, 2016
No Comments on Five More Confusing Word Pairs to Consider

We’re continuing to examine words that are used incorrectly.

Enthused/Enthusiastic—Although enthused has become acceptable in standard usage, old school people still prefer enthusiastic.

My daughter was not very enthusiastic about salmon for dinner.

Farther/Further—Farther is used for geographic distances. Further means “in addition to” without involving geography.

A great bed and breakfast is located about a mile farther down the road.

Further accidents can be avoided with common sense.

Fewer/Less—Use fewer for groups or collections with parts that can be counted individually. Use less for things in bulk.

The fifth grade class earned fewer cupcakes than the fourth grade.

We added less butter in our brownies for a low fat option.

Impact/Affect— Some people shudder when impact is used as a verb although it’s become acceptable in standard English.

The impact of the wind knocked me down. (Yes.)

The song impacted me more than you’ll ever know. (No. This usage may bring to mind images of impacted teeth…or bowels. You don’t want that, do you?)

Instead, use affect.

The nostalgic play affected me to the point of tears.

Irregardless/Regardless—Old English teachers might have rapped knuckles and said, “Irregardless isn’t a word. It isn’t in the dictionary.” My dictionary has it listed along with the definition of non standard English. Irregardless is, however, a fun café in Raleigh, NC. Please use regardless instead.

Do you agree or disagree about the usage of enthuse or impact?

Happy writing!

Tags Almost an Author, Christian writer, editing, grammar and grace, Hope Toler Dougherty, writing, Writing Instruction, Writing tips

Dear Young Scribes

10 Tips for Reading Through the Eyes of a Writer

Post author By Tessa Emily Hall - Becoming an Author
Post date March 10, 2016
5 Comments on 10 Tips for Reading Through the Eyes of a Writer

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

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

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

How is this done?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~Linda Hall

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

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

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

Tags Almost an Author, Author, Christian writer, creative writing, novel, teen writers, writing, Writing Craft, writing education, Writing Instruction, Writing tips

Craft Writing with Humor

Adding Humor to Your Writing Is As Easy as 1 – 2 – 3: The Rule of Three, to be exact.

Post author By Jean Wilund - Writing with Humor
Post date March 8, 2016
4 Comments on Adding Humor to Your Writing Is As Easy as 1 – 2 – 3: The Rule of Three, to be exact.

Adding humor to any type of writing is as easy as 1 – 2 – 3.

Not 1 – 2 – 3 – 4.

Or 1 – 2.

1 – 2 – 3.

Research shows we like lists of three. Four sounds overdone. Two feels incomplete. Three is just right.

I guess Goldilocks and the three bears were right.

The literary device known as The Rule of Three says lists are funnier, more satisfying, and more effective in threes.

I agree.

Here are three easy tips for adding humor using The Rule of Three:

1. Add an Unexpected Humorous Ending to a List of Three.

Whether you’re writing a serious or comedic piece, throwing in a humorous ending to a list of three grabs your reader’s attention.

Getting fit and trim is easy. Eat more fruits and vegetables, eat less processed foods, and borrow your skinny neighbor’s five kids and three dogs to chase around.

In the above example, the third point could easily lead into a serious discussion about adopting a more active lifestyle for an article on health and fitness.

It could also lead into a humorous anecdote in a novel about two friends who are opposites.

In my last article, I talked about using opposites in humor, which is otherwise known as juxtaposition for you scholarly types. Check it out here.

2. Add an Unexpected Serious Ending to a List of Three

A list that starts out humorous but ends in a more normal tone is another method for catching the reader by surprise and introducing the topic in a memorable way.

The following example could be used to introduce the topic of why every writer should join a critique group.

The most successful road to publishing awakens delusions of grandeur, unearths deep-seated insecurities, and leads through a writer’s critique group that will help keep the author grounded somewhere in between.

3. Change-up a Well-Known List of Three

Can you fill in the last word in each of these lists?

Live, Love, _____.

Friends, Romans, _____.

The good, the bad, and the _____.

Surely every American knows these famous phrases. (If not, check the bottom of the post for the answers.)

When we take a familiar list of three and change it up with something unfamiliar, we throw our reader off and make them laugh.

I came, I saw, I bought the t-shirt.

When well-done, The Rule of Three brings a smile to our readers’ faces, encourages them to keep reading, and results in smiling authors.

It’s a win-win.

Not everything has to be grouped in three’s.

The answers to the blanks in #3 are:

Live, Love, Laugh.

Friends, Romans, countrymen.

The good, the bad, and the ugly.

I came, I saw, I bought the t-shirt came from the famous quote by Julius Caesar: I came, I saw, I conquered.

What are some favorite change-ups you’ve heard? Share them in the comments below.

[bctt tweet=”Adding #Humor to Your Writing is as Easy as 1-2-3. The Rule of Three to be exact. #amwriting #author”]

Tags Almost an Author, Christian writer, humor, Jean Wilund, The Rule of Three, writing, Writing Instruction, Writing tips, Writing with Humor

The Ministry of Writing

Character Over Completion

Post author By Jake McCandless - The Ministry of Writing
Post date February 8, 2016
4 Comments on Character Over Completion

Labeled for reuse https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/84/Maniac9.jpg

I work like a mad scientist. When I am working on a writing project I am all in — laser-beam focus. I won’t shave. I can’t think about anything else. I don’t call my mom (sorry Mom). I lose track of the college football polls. My desk becomes littered with coffee cups, water bottles, and empty diet coke cans. My trashcan overflows with pierced K-cups. My desk lamp never gets turned off. There are stacks of research books everywhere I go. The project consumes me.

My metamorphosis into Dr. Frankenstein is due to the fact that I believe called of God to complete the project. I believe that the book or whatever it might be will change the world. Life begins to revolve around that important project.

Amazingly in those times I am able to do well with my quiet times and my relationship with God. I guess I incorporate prayer and Bible reading into the project. But my prayers center on the project. My Bible roulette is all about finding inspiration to push on.

Life becomes about one thing — the completion of that project.

When I struggle to even give my wife and children adequate attention. When I fail to contact family and friends I love dearly. When I don’t even do the hobbies I love then my personal character development is nowhere on the radar.

Writing. Word Count. Editing. Weed words. The perfect Pandora station. Research. Those things are on my radar.

Life becomes solely about completing the project which means that my attitude may go to pot.

It is downright scary how that I can be so driven to please God and serve Him through the completion of a project, but I totally ignore pleasing Him by becoming the person He wants me to be. I listen to lectures and read blogs of writing tips, but ignore the Holy Spirit prompting me not to be a jerk.

In pastoring I have been given the best advice on making my family a priority. I am regularly reminded that if I succeed as a pastor, but fail my family then ultimately I have failed. I think that same principle should be applied to our writing and our own character. If we succeed in creating masterpieces for the Lord, but fail to let Him work in our lives then we have failed.

To put our sanctification in perspective we need to keep in mind Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” [bctt tweet=”Although we may be called to write, we are first His workmanship.”] We need to let Him work.

Therefore as writers driven to glorify God and reach others we must remember the words from the Psalm 46, “Be still and know that He is God.”

We need to get up from our desks. Step away from the lap top. Turn off the music. Let the coffee cool down. And let Him complete our character over us completing a project. As followers of Christ, we must remember character over completion.

Tags Almost an Author, Christian writer, Christian writing, Writing tips

The Efficiency Addict

Using Pinterest for Writing Research

Post author By Cynthia Owens - The Efficiency Addict
Post date February 6, 2016
2 Comments on Using Pinterest for Writing Research

How Pinterest can help writers find expert and original source materials.

Pinterest for Writers – Part 1

If you’ve heard about Pinterest and think it’s only for women or crafters, think again. Pinterest encourages people from all over the world to gather around common interests and share their knowledge. This results in a rich database of information for writing research.

Have a character who’s into sailing, and you need the name of common boating knots? (Pinterest Search “Sailboat Knots”)
Want to know the color schemes of a 1950s kitchen? (Pinterest Search “1950s Kitchen Décor”)
Need to find a quaint Irish town for your next suspense novel? (Pinterest Search “Irish Towns”)

What’s the best part of using Pinterest for writing research? It’s easy, because other Pinterest users (a.k.a. Pinners) have already done a lot of the work for you.

[bctt tweet=”How to use Pinterest for Writing Research. #AuthorLife #HowTo”]

Research Tools You’ll Find on Pinterest

Collections – Pinterest users collect articles and pictures that interest them onto boards. The Pinner names the board based on it’s topic and gives it a description. These names and descriptions are searchable by other Pinterest users. If you type the phrase “London Theater “ into the Pinterest search box, individual articles and pictures about this topic will appear as well as entire boards (collections of articles and pictures) on this subject. Bonus – Pinned items come from all over the Internet, including websites, Instagram pictures, Etsy listings, Ebay listings, and more.
Expert Bloggers – When you click on a pin that interests you, you’ll find additional information. If the pin originated with a website, you can click on the website to read the full article or see other pictures. This is a great way to find blogs written by subject-matter gurus. Bloggers with strong material are pinned and shared. Note- If you’re a blogger, be sure to have a Pin This button on your blog posts so your great material can be shared, too.
Original Documents – It’s critical for writers to get it right. Experts are wonderful. Primary source documents are even better. It’s not uncommon to have scans of primary source material pinned on Pinterest. When I searched Pinterest for “Edwardian Fashion,” I found a link to a 1910 print entitle “Children’s House Clothes for the Little Girl from 6 to 12.” It’s part of the The New York Public Library’s digital archives, a free resource with many additional original documents. Other source documents frequently found on Pinterest include archived magazine articles, how to books dating back to the 1800s, design schematics, and antique photographs.
Related Pins – When you click on a Pin, Related Pins appear below it. These are pins similar to the one you selected. So, each search and selection you make leads you to a host of other selections that are already pre-sorted for you.

To learn more about how to use Pinterest, connect with me at The EfficiencyAddict on Pinterest or visit my blog at TheEfficiencyAddict.com. This month’s #WorkSmarter Series is all about using Pinterest for writers, speakers, and small business owners.

Tags Almost an Author, Cynthia Owens, Pinterest for Writers, The Efficiency Addict, Writing tips

Craft Writing with Humor

Five Ways to Add Humor Using Juxtaposition

Post author By Jean Wilund - Writing with Humor
Post date February 2, 2016
8 Comments on Five Ways to Add Humor Using Juxtaposition

One of these things is not like the other. One of these things just doesn’t belong . . .

Perhaps that should be the theme song for the useful literary device called juxtaposition.

Juxtaposition — positioning two or more characters, ideas, objects, or places beside each other in order to draw comparisons and contrasts — and for our purposes, a laugh.

Regardless of what genre you’re writing, juxtaposition is a powerful tool, especially when you want to add a touch of humor.

Below are five ways juxtaposition can add humor to your writing:

1. Juxtaposition Provides an Unexpected Laugh

A non-fiction author may write about a serious subject, but depending on the topic, he may still wish to add humor. (See How Humor Helps When Writing About Sensitive Topics.)

Juxtaposition is a great way to inject humor and make any statement more memorable.

I read a poem recently by an unknown author. One line remains stuck in my head like the Nationwide theme hum by Peyton Manning, except I like this line:

I thoroughly hate loving you.

What a perfect juxtaposition. Love and hate.

2. Juxtaposition Creates Interesting Conflict

Without conflict, there’s no story.

Novels, movies, and plays often feature lead characters with opposite attributes or personalities in order to create interesting conflict.

Consider the 1970’s TV series The Odd Couple.

The juxtaposition of the fussy, neat freak Felix Unger with his apathetic, sloppy roommate Oscar Madison created five seasons of TV fun and plenty of awards.

Watch the following opening theme song for The Odd Couple’s humorous juxtapositions:

Tags Almost an Author, Christian writer, humor, Jean Wilund, writer, writing, Writing tips

Dear Young Scribes

5 Reasons Teens SHOULDN’T Pursue a Writing Career

Post author By Tessa Emily Hall - Becoming an Author
Post date January 14, 2016
3 Comments on 5 Reasons Teens SHOULDN’T Pursue a Writing Career

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

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

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

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

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

1) It does not guarantee fame or money.

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

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

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

2) It’s a lonely job.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~ ~ ~

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

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

Why can’t it be you?

~ ~ ~

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

Tags career advice, teen writers, teen writing advice, Writing tips