In honor of my very first agent interview on Community Fridays this week, today I'm going to dig a little into the mysterious world of agents.
I haven't yet had the pleasure (or pain, as some people see it) to submit my work to agents. I hope that gathering information this early in the game will help me to make the right decisions when I start looking for an agent, if I decide to go that route.
Jean Henry Mead is a published author of seven nonfiction books and three mystery novels. Her article on why agents turn writers down answers several difficult questions about the process authors go through to get an agent, such as: Should writers discuss marketing in their query letter? Where is the best place to meet an agent? How much should a writer know about their target market before contacting an agent?
If you read L.J. Seller's blog Write First, Clean Later, you'll com across some great agent information. In one article, she lists the pros and cons of finding a literary agent. For example, an agent can help you negotiate a better contract, but he or she might also quit the agency and leave you in the lurch.
Within her article, L.J. mentions another great agent article, What's the point of literary agents? by Mark Liam Piggott of guardian.co.uk. Mark has had both good and bad experiences with agents. Don't forget to read the comments for more great insight.
Tess Gerritsen over at Murderati is actually a happily agented author, more than satisfied working with her third agent. However, she knows other authors whose relationships aren't quite as rosy, and so she offers advice on whether or not to fire an agent based on certain criteria.
As one last point, I'd like to offer a tidbit from Rob, who I met at a recent literary event. Rob asked me if I'd started submitting to agents yet. I replied no, and that I'd heard mixed opinions on whether an agent was the right way to go. Rob then asked me whether all of the most successful authors had agents.
"I imagine so," I said.
"Then, if you want to be successful, shouldn't you have an agent?"
I'd love to hear your thoughts on agents. And don't forget, agent Andy Ross will be here on Friday to offer some great inside information from the industry.
Update!
Great comments from L.J. and Alexandra Sokoloff with links to more articles on Alexandra's site. She gives wonderful advice for getting a literary agent, and then lets you know why you want an agent in the first place! Thank you Alexandra for the excellent, to-the-poing advice!
Showing posts with label publishing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label publishing. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
Midsummer Disc Dreams Now Available!
Good news! My short story Midsummer Disc Dreams, a rousing, action-packed tale about the wonderful sport of Ultimate Frisbee is now available from outdoor literary magazine In the Mist.
I'm sure there are quite a few people out there who have never heard about Ultimate Frisbee before. It's a sport similar to soccer or football, played with a Frisbee instead of a ball. However, the players will tell you that it's much more than a sport. It's a place you can go as an absolute stranger across the U.S. and around the world to meet people who will welcome you with open arms. Most games are pick-up, open to anyone and everyone who wants to play. Beginners are always welcome at the casual pick-up games. There are no referees; rules are upheld by the players themselves, based on the 'spirit of game,' a code of honor that directs players to be honest, friendly, and fair. What better way to stay healthy and be social at the same time?
Click here to read my story, and others stories by women who love the outdoors.
Want to know more about Ultimate Frisbee? Click here! We're always looking for new players.
I'm sure there are quite a few people out there who have never heard about Ultimate Frisbee before. It's a sport similar to soccer or football, played with a Frisbee instead of a ball. However, the players will tell you that it's much more than a sport. It's a place you can go as an absolute stranger across the U.S. and around the world to meet people who will welcome you with open arms. Most games are pick-up, open to anyone and everyone who wants to play. Beginners are always welcome at the casual pick-up games. There are no referees; rules are upheld by the players themselves, based on the 'spirit of game,' a code of honor that directs players to be honest, friendly, and fair. What better way to stay healthy and be social at the same time?
Click here to read my story, and others stories by women who love the outdoors.
Want to know more about Ultimate Frisbee? Click here! We're always looking for new players.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Interview with Jane Kennedy Sutton on Community Fridays
Welcome to Community Fridays!During Community Fridays, I interview authors, editors, publishers, and pretty much anyone else who I can get my hands on from the writing and publishing communities. Hope you enjoy, and feel free to suggest new participants. Check out current and past interviews here. Only have a minute? Click here for interviews at a glance.
Today's guest is Jane Kennedy Sutton, author of The Ride.
What was the most major roadblock you encountered along the way to getting published, and how did you overcome it?
I had the misfortune of signing with an agent that did more harm than good. Her unprofessional actions and inaction delayed progress on the project for a year (the length of our contract). The experience also did nothing for my self-esteem or confidence but I did learn a lesson or two from it.
The support and encouragement I received through the writing groups I belong to as well as friends and family kept me from becoming too discouraged or giving up on the book. Now I believe everything worked out for the best.
ArcheBooks recently released your new novel, The Ride. Would you like to tell us a little about it?
It is a funny, poignant adventure of a 40-something woman taken on the ride of her life.
How does it feel to have all that hard work finally come to fruition?
I have gone through a full range of emotions including disbelief, excitement, panic, shock, exhilaration and everything in between. I've also felt a deep sadness caused by losing my parents shortly before the book's release and not being able to share this special time with them.
Over the years, you've done volunteer work in various capacities related to producing magazines and newspapers. Do you think volunteering helped you on your journey to getting published?
These were publications for various international women's groups. I'm not sure the work helped me become published, but I did learn a lot about the process and that certainly didn't hurt. However, I've discovered there is a huge difference between the production of a newsletter or magazine and the progression of a book from manuscript to publication.
Why did you choose volunteering as opposed to making a career out of one of those roles?
I considered my 'career' as 'professional tourist' because in many cases my husband's business Visa prohibited my paid employment. That was an excellent excuse for me not to seek a job and to be able to concentrate on being a mom, exploring, settling in, learning new customs and doing volunteer work.
How has exploring the globe for much of your life affected your writing?
Living overseas was a terrific way to learn about other cultures, meet interesting people of all nationalities, take part in many wonderful and, well, some not so great I experiences. So I thought when I began to write seriously, I'd write non-fiction pieces based on my travels. Although I have started a memoir about my major bloopers during my international travels, (such as the time in Taiwan when I thought we were invited to our landlord's mother's birthday party and it turned out to be her funeral), I found I really like making up stuff. I love fiction, creating and controlling lives. Maybe one day I'll come up with a fiction idea that will incorporate some of my overseas experiences.
Any advice for writers who want to make a living writing while traveling or living abroad (I'd love to do this!)?
I did none of these things, but looking back, I wish I had studied travel publications before I left to have an idea of guidelines, kept a journal, and made myself write something every day. Many journal pieces could then have been turned into articles for appropriate markets in the U.S. or the country I was residing in.
Which path would you suggest for an aspiring author?
Join writing groups, critique groups and attend conferences. I wish I had started all this earlier but I was really a closet writer. I didn't reveal my aspirations to my friends until the last few years.
Also, believe in yourself, don't be shy about sharing your dreams, and most of all, don't give up.
Lastly, because this feature is about establishing bonds within the writing and publishing industries, can you name one author, editor or publisher who's doing great things right now, and why?
I would have to say, fantasy author Sandy Lender. She's a fellow ArcheBooks author who has offered me so much encouragement when it should have been the other way around. While promoting her novel, Choices Meant for Gods, she's completed the sequel, Choices Meant for Kings. She keeps up several blogs and holds workshops to teach others about blogging. She also finds time to nurture the Florida sea turtle population. The incredible part is that she has done all this while dealing with a nasty divorce, a serious illness requiring chemo, and having to move unexpectedly when her landlord began having problems with the legal system, bank and upkeep. Through it all, she's maintained a wonderful sense of humor. I think she'd be an inspiration to anyone. Whenever I'm feeling I have too much to handle, I think of Sandy and realize just how lucky I am.
About the Author
To read a sample of The Ride, go to ArcheBooks Publishing and click on the Free Sample button. To find out more about me, visit my website or my blog.
I am currently working like mad to learn the marketing aspect of being an author and trying to squeeze in time to work on my second novel, Reigning Cats and Dogs.
© Emma Larkins and Jane Kennedy Sutton
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Acceptance!
Talk about serendipity! Remember how I mentioned Disc Love yesterday? Well, it's just been accepted (under the new title Midsummer Disc Dreams) by In The Mist Magazine, an online magazine for women who love the outdoors. And for their maiden issue, no less!
Woo hoo! My first online magazine publication! My mind is a frenzy. I feel the same way I felt when I got into college, like big changes are on the horizon. I know that I still have a long way to go, but it's good to know that at least one thing I've written is suitable for publication.
I'll let you know the details when they're finalized.
Woo hoo! My first online magazine publication! My mind is a frenzy. I feel the same way I felt when I got into college, like big changes are on the horizon. I know that I still have a long way to go, but it's good to know that at least one thing I've written is suitable for publication.
I'll let you know the details when they're finalized.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Interview With Karen Syed On Community Fridays
Welcome to the very fist edition of Community Fridays!
In this feature, I interview authors, editors, publishers, and pretty much anyone else who I can get my hands on from the writing and publishing communities. Hope you enjoy, and feel free to suggest new interviewees for upcoming Community Fridays. Check out current and past interviews here. Only have a minute? Click here for interviews at a glance.
And now for your education and reading pleasure is an interview with Karen Syed, president and CEO of Echelon Press, LLC.
You made a transition from being an author to being a publisher. Do many authors make that switch? What motivated that transition for you?
I don't know how many might have made the transition, probably quite a few in the independent sector. For me it was a weird choice. I have had 8 of my novels published and I live that, but I am a terrible author. Do as I say not as I do is my author motto. I can teach people how to self-promote and market, I just suck at it. I am not shy, but I have a very hard time talking about myself. Kinda weird.
As for my motivation to switch, it was a no-brainer. I was getting screwed over left and right by small presses and it was just getting to be too much, so we decided there needed to be a place where new writers could go to get their foot in the door and not get bent over a table with no flowers first. Our company was born: Echelon Press…the next step in publishing! (which has changed a little since then.)
I think many aspiring authors worry that they'll put a lot of effort into trying to get published, and then not be able to make a living out of it. What are your thoughts on this?
You get what you put into it. Now, that is not to say that some authors don't get lucky. They hit a good day and get the big advance and actually get a marketing budget, but those strikes are few and far between. For most authors who get published, they don't seem to understand that you get back what you put in. If you sign a contract and then sit back waiting for the readers to buy and the royalty checks to roll in, you better stock up on Bon Bons, Baby, 'cause you have a long wait.
You have to be willing to get out there and hoof it from here to there and back again, telling everyone who you are and what your book is. If you don't, no one will. This I promise you. If you are somewhat lucky you will find a house that will at least work with you, as opposed to simply throwing you out to the wolves with a new book and not a clue.
If the only reason you are doing this is money, spend a bit on sales training, because those are the skills you will need to sell your books so you can get a royalty check. Writing a great book is no longer enough.
You are a big proponent of authors taking some ownership of promoting their own works. Can you tell us from the point of view of a publisher why this is important?
This is common sense, especially from my point of view. I am a small company with a minimal staff. We simply cannot do everything for everyone all at the same time. This is also relevant to bigger companies, they may have bigger offices, and bigger staffs, but they also produce more books, so it all evens out in the wash.
Authors complain about how hard it is to write, market, and promote their books. Well imagine doing that for hundreds of books. You have to take off your blinders and look at the entire picture and not just what is in front of your nose. Have you ever thought about what a publisher has to do?
There is editing, formatting, designing covers, more editing, contacting distributors, placing and designing ads, contacting bookstores, libraries, event venues, maintaining company records, accounts, orders, packing, shipping, folding, stuffing, labeling, stamping, processing. Then there are all the e-mails and phone calls from authors who want you to do various things for them, find out books did not arrive where they are supposed to be when they were supposed to, finding out why distributors are out of stock, processing returns…the list goes on, but you see the point. Now take into consideration that many of these things have to be repeated for each book in print or being released.
We need all the help we can get. The key to remember is that even though you the author are promoting and marketing your work, we are STILL doing all those things as well. It's a partnership. We work as a team and get we get twice as much done, which means twice as much potential exposure and sales for you. This in turn makes it easier for you to make more money to support you and your ten cats. :-)
What is one promotion tool that you've had a lot of success with lately?
Oddly enough, MySpace and Twitter have been good venues. I don't spend as much time on these as people seem to think, but the exposure is translating into sales. One thing that we also use is Amazon and their many programs. Amazon Associates allows authors to use their accounts to sell their books and make a little extra over their royalties. I only use this in specific places so I can track if the exposure is creating sales. Works well on Twitter and our Blog.
The other tool I find VERY productive is festivals. Not just book festivals, but craft festivals as well. This is not for everyone, but we sell lots of books at festivals. Very lucrative in local venues.
What catches your eye first when you're looking for a new author to publish?
Enthusiasm and tenacity. I won't even consider an author who walks up to me and says, "You're probably not going to be interested, but can I send you my book?" What's with the negativity? I don't have time for negativity in my life or my business. I have my own issues to keep track of, I don't need to bring on needy authors who have no self-confidence. You have to know and believe your product has value and that you as an author are worth my time. If not, there are plenty who are worth it. I want authors who visibly present well. You may be butt ugly, but if you take the time to make a good first impression and keep it up, then you have passed over the first hurdle. Not everyone is beautiful in everyone's eyes, but no one has to be sloppy and unkempt, especially in business.
I am certain everyone expected me to say that I want to see a great book. That is important too, but no matter how great your book is, no one will ever know if they are put off by you. "But they won't all see me." you say. It's not all about looks, don't be a dork on the Internet. Don't swear in public venues. Don't mouth off about your political and religious views in the public forums. Keep a clear head, and remember, you are trying to impress people, not irritate them. So you have a strong personality, great, but don't be a bully.
Lastly, because this feature is about establishing bonds within the writing and publishing industries, can you name one author, editor or publisher who's doing great things right now, and why?
I have to tell you, this is a new contact for me, but I am so impressed with her efforts. Check out Dani over at Quickest Blog Book Tour Guide Ever. She isn't a publisher or an editor, but she certainly is in tune with our industry and she is doing incredible things to help authors and editors and publishers and anyone else in the business increase their exposure and build solid networks.
She is a tsunami of inspiration and knowledge and if she doesn't know something, she makes every effort to learn about it. It's only been a short time since hooking up with her, but already she has had a huge positive influence on me and my networking and marketing venues.
About the Author:
Karen L. Syed is the president and CEO of Echelon Press, LLC. Every day is a new success story for her as she continues to grow herself and her business. She has seen eight of her own novels published (writing as Alexis Hart), along with numerous articles and short stories. As a former bookstore owner, she garnered a nomination from Publishers Weekly for their Bookseller of the Year award. She is a member of EPIC (Electronically Published Internet Connection), SinC (Sisters in Crime), MWA (Maryland Writers' Association), and ITW (International Thriller Writers). Karen is committed to helping and encouraging everyone she comes in contact with to seek a healthier and more positive quality of life by reaching for their dreams. You can learn more about Karen Syed here.
© Emma Larkins and Karen Syed
In this feature, I interview authors, editors, publishers, and pretty much anyone else who I can get my hands on from the writing and publishing communities. Hope you enjoy, and feel free to suggest new interviewees for upcoming Community Fridays. Check out current and past interviews here. Only have a minute? Click here for interviews at a glance.
And now for your education and reading pleasure is an interview with Karen Syed, president and CEO of Echelon Press, LLC.
You made a transition from being an author to being a publisher. Do many authors make that switch? What motivated that transition for you?
I don't know how many might have made the transition, probably quite a few in the independent sector. For me it was a weird choice. I have had 8 of my novels published and I live that, but I am a terrible author. Do as I say not as I do is my author motto. I can teach people how to self-promote and market, I just suck at it. I am not shy, but I have a very hard time talking about myself. Kinda weird.
As for my motivation to switch, it was a no-brainer. I was getting screwed over left and right by small presses and it was just getting to be too much, so we decided there needed to be a place where new writers could go to get their foot in the door and not get bent over a table with no flowers first. Our company was born: Echelon Press…the next step in publishing! (which has changed a little since then.)
I think many aspiring authors worry that they'll put a lot of effort into trying to get published, and then not be able to make a living out of it. What are your thoughts on this?
You get what you put into it. Now, that is not to say that some authors don't get lucky. They hit a good day and get the big advance and actually get a marketing budget, but those strikes are few and far between. For most authors who get published, they don't seem to understand that you get back what you put in. If you sign a contract and then sit back waiting for the readers to buy and the royalty checks to roll in, you better stock up on Bon Bons, Baby, 'cause you have a long wait.
You have to be willing to get out there and hoof it from here to there and back again, telling everyone who you are and what your book is. If you don't, no one will. This I promise you. If you are somewhat lucky you will find a house that will at least work with you, as opposed to simply throwing you out to the wolves with a new book and not a clue.
If the only reason you are doing this is money, spend a bit on sales training, because those are the skills you will need to sell your books so you can get a royalty check. Writing a great book is no longer enough.
You are a big proponent of authors taking some ownership of promoting their own works. Can you tell us from the point of view of a publisher why this is important?
This is common sense, especially from my point of view. I am a small company with a minimal staff. We simply cannot do everything for everyone all at the same time. This is also relevant to bigger companies, they may have bigger offices, and bigger staffs, but they also produce more books, so it all evens out in the wash.
Authors complain about how hard it is to write, market, and promote their books. Well imagine doing that for hundreds of books. You have to take off your blinders and look at the entire picture and not just what is in front of your nose. Have you ever thought about what a publisher has to do?
There is editing, formatting, designing covers, more editing, contacting distributors, placing and designing ads, contacting bookstores, libraries, event venues, maintaining company records, accounts, orders, packing, shipping, folding, stuffing, labeling, stamping, processing. Then there are all the e-mails and phone calls from authors who want you to do various things for them, find out books did not arrive where they are supposed to be when they were supposed to, finding out why distributors are out of stock, processing returns…the list goes on, but you see the point. Now take into consideration that many of these things have to be repeated for each book in print or being released.
We need all the help we can get. The key to remember is that even though you the author are promoting and marketing your work, we are STILL doing all those things as well. It's a partnership. We work as a team and get we get twice as much done, which means twice as much potential exposure and sales for you. This in turn makes it easier for you to make more money to support you and your ten cats. :-)
What is one promotion tool that you've had a lot of success with lately?
Oddly enough, MySpace and Twitter have been good venues. I don't spend as much time on these as people seem to think, but the exposure is translating into sales. One thing that we also use is Amazon and their many programs. Amazon Associates allows authors to use their accounts to sell their books and make a little extra over their royalties. I only use this in specific places so I can track if the exposure is creating sales. Works well on Twitter and our Blog.
The other tool I find VERY productive is festivals. Not just book festivals, but craft festivals as well. This is not for everyone, but we sell lots of books at festivals. Very lucrative in local venues.
What catches your eye first when you're looking for a new author to publish?
Enthusiasm and tenacity. I won't even consider an author who walks up to me and says, "You're probably not going to be interested, but can I send you my book?" What's with the negativity? I don't have time for negativity in my life or my business. I have my own issues to keep track of, I don't need to bring on needy authors who have no self-confidence. You have to know and believe your product has value and that you as an author are worth my time. If not, there are plenty who are worth it. I want authors who visibly present well. You may be butt ugly, but if you take the time to make a good first impression and keep it up, then you have passed over the first hurdle. Not everyone is beautiful in everyone's eyes, but no one has to be sloppy and unkempt, especially in business.
I am certain everyone expected me to say that I want to see a great book. That is important too, but no matter how great your book is, no one will ever know if they are put off by you. "But they won't all see me." you say. It's not all about looks, don't be a dork on the Internet. Don't swear in public venues. Don't mouth off about your political and religious views in the public forums. Keep a clear head, and remember, you are trying to impress people, not irritate them. So you have a strong personality, great, but don't be a bully.
Lastly, because this feature is about establishing bonds within the writing and publishing industries, can you name one author, editor or publisher who's doing great things right now, and why?
I have to tell you, this is a new contact for me, but I am so impressed with her efforts. Check out Dani over at Quickest Blog Book Tour Guide Ever. She isn't a publisher or an editor, but she certainly is in tune with our industry and she is doing incredible things to help authors and editors and publishers and anyone else in the business increase their exposure and build solid networks.
She is a tsunami of inspiration and knowledge and if she doesn't know something, she makes every effort to learn about it. It's only been a short time since hooking up with her, but already she has had a huge positive influence on me and my networking and marketing venues.
About the Author:
Karen L. Syed is the president and CEO of Echelon Press, LLC. Every day is a new success story for her as she continues to grow herself and her business. She has seen eight of her own novels published (writing as Alexis Hart), along with numerous articles and short stories. As a former bookstore owner, she garnered a nomination from Publishers Weekly for their Bookseller of the Year award. She is a member of EPIC (Electronically Published Internet Connection), SinC (Sisters in Crime), MWA (Maryland Writers' Association), and ITW (International Thriller Writers). Karen is committed to helping and encouraging everyone she comes in contact with to seek a healthier and more positive quality of life by reaching for their dreams. You can learn more about Karen Syed here.
© Emma Larkins and Karen Syed
Monday, August 18, 2008
Taking The Plunge - Submission!
On Friday, I finally submitted my first short story to an online literary magazine. Although the deadline doesn't come until the end of August, I wanted to get my story out as soon as possible. No messing around with brinkmanship on the eve of the deadline this time!
However, the whole experience terrified me beyond belief. I've rarely been so stressed out and scared in my life. I assume that the email went through, but you never really know, do you? And I don't want to ask, because they might not like me hassling them. Before I submitted, I read the instructions, and asked people questions when I needed to, but still I don't know if I did everything right. Come to think of it, I probably should have emailed the fiction editor a question or two beforehand, just so I had a better idea of what I was doing. Shoot.
Well, enough worrying about that. You live, you learn. Full steam ahead on my next story!
I've updated my Squidoo lens, How to Get a Book Published (Successfully!) to include information about submitting your work for publication. Enjoy!
However, the whole experience terrified me beyond belief. I've rarely been so stressed out and scared in my life. I assume that the email went through, but you never really know, do you? And I don't want to ask, because they might not like me hassling them. Before I submitted, I read the instructions, and asked people questions when I needed to, but still I don't know if I did everything right. Come to think of it, I probably should have emailed the fiction editor a question or two beforehand, just so I had a better idea of what I was doing. Shoot.
Well, enough worrying about that. You live, you learn. Full steam ahead on my next story!
I've updated my Squidoo lens, How to Get a Book Published (Successfully!) to include information about submitting your work for publication. Enjoy!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
How to Get a Book Published (Successfully!) and Squidoo
So I just learned about a great new online tool called Squidoo. Squidoo allows you to create mini-websites, or "lenses," about one or more subjects that interest you. For example, if you wanted you could create one lens for Ultimate Frisbee tactics, one for cooking with zucchinis, and (of course) one with tips for writers. Blogs usually work better if they focus on one topic so that you build a good readership in your niche. However, with lenses, you can create as many as you like on any topic you want, and best of all they're free! (Plus much less hassle than buying a bunch of URLs and setting up websites manually.)
My first lens is titled "How to Get a Book Published (Successfully!)" In the lens, I'm not going to provide any hidden tips and tricks of the publishing world, because I don't know any. But I will tell you the best ways I know to make sure that you can make a living off of your wonderful words once you actually do get published.
Thanks to Tiffany Dow for her excellent article that led me to this site!
My first lens is titled "How to Get a Book Published (Successfully!)" In the lens, I'm not going to provide any hidden tips and tricks of the publishing world, because I don't know any. But I will tell you the best ways I know to make sure that you can make a living off of your wonderful words once you actually do get published.
Thanks to Tiffany Dow for her excellent article that led me to this site!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Three Reasons To Attend The Dreaded Networking Event
On July 22, I'll be attending a networking event in Washington, DC with other Stanford alumni and their friends and families. Once upon a time, my first reaction to a potential networking event would have been, "Ugh, do I have to?" followed by, "Ugh, I guess I should," in turn followed by me most likely skipping the event at the last minute. But after experiencing several of these events first hand, I'd like to share my new, improved attitude.
Here are three reasons to attend the Dreaded Networking Event:
1.) Networking is Fun!
People who don't like meeting new people will tell me that they'd rather have cavities filled without anesthesia than go to a networking event. I'll let you in on a secret: I'm one of you! It's not easy for me to approach strangers. I always worry that I'll do or say something wrong. But despite my shyness, I've had a great time at every event I've been to. There's often tasty, free food and drink. The people are tuned into 'friendly mode,' and so even if you don't approach anyone, someone is likely to talk to you. And if you've decided to attend/been invited to an event, you likely have something in common with other people at the event, making conversation a snap.
2.) Networking is Profitable!
Granted, the profitability of a networking event isn't as direct as, say, calling someone on the phone and trying to sell to him or her. But so far, I've had the great fortune to meet several published authors and editors, and subsequently added these contacts to my lists on Facebook, Linkedin, GoodReads, etc. An author is much more likely to write a blurb for my novel if she or he knows me, and one of those editors is more likely to read my work if I make a note of our conversation at X networking event. Building a solid network of connections is the surest way to success for almost any industry.
3.) Networking is Healthy!
Let's face it, spending hours hunched in front of your computer writing every day may be intellectually stimulating, but it's not very healthy for your body or social skills. Us writers tend to miss out on the physical activity we need and the social stimulation we crave. Attending a networking event forces us to actually, physically go somewhere, to (gasp!) stand and walk around, and to converse in person with fellow human beings. Who knows, you might even get an inspiration for your next story! Just try to go easy on those delicious high-calorie appetizers and desserts if you want to maximize the health benefits.
In order to take advantage of these benefits, find networking meetings for an organization you're in, or if there aren't any, join a new organization. Grab a drink and a plate, introduce yourself to someone, and let yourself enjoy networking.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Five Steps to Short Story Fortune and Fame
Any writer can benefit from getting a short story published. It's great for your self esteem (and occassionaly, your pocket) to see your name in print and know that somewhere, someone chose YOUR piece to publish out of a great big submissions pile. And the benefits don't stop there. If you're interested in publishing a novel someday, getting short stories published can up your credibility. Even if short fiction isn't your final goal, publishing short stories can keep your writing skills in shape, hone your craft, and get you noticed.
So - how does one go about writing a short story for publication? I won't call myself an expert, because I'm not widely published (yet!), but my current tact is to study the themes of published short stories and try to apply what I've learned to my own writing. Here are my observations, boiled down to five easy-to-follow steps.
1.) Set the setting.
Each published short story I've read takes place in a specific place and time, be it Prehistoric Africa, a Southern U.S. farm in the early 20th century, or present-day Boston. The setting is established early on, clearly and succinctly. Know your setting from the start, and know it well.
2.) Introduce characters.
You can't have too many characters in a short story without making things confusing, so each character needs to be unique and powerful. You could create an old man with one eye who loves the opera, perhaps, or a young woman searching for fame in a big city as a yodeler.
3.) Make something happen.
It should be a new event in the life of your characters, or an old event that happens in a new way. For example, a stranger approaches the house in the middle of the night. A big producer comes to a small town and decides to buy a young man's play. The 8:05 train fails to show up at the station on schedule. This initial, unusual event acts as the catalyst for the story.
4.) Follow the characters' reactions to the story's conclusion.
The way the characters deal with the new event will determine the direction of the story. Does the man who loses his job get depressed or start a new life? Does the passenger who misses her flight find love or lose it? At this point, there are usually a series of mini-climaxes leading up to the conclusion, in which the action of the story is resolved. Or, potentially, the reader is left to furnish his or her own resolution.
5.) Give the story a flavor.
None of the above items need to be incredibly bizarre to make a good story. You can write about a Midwestern housewife coming across a bird with a broken wing on her way to the supermarket, or a tax attorney losing papers for an important account. Adding your own special twists on language, voice, theme, etc., will make the story engaging, and make it yours.
I know it's not necessarily as easy as all that, but it's a start. Give it a try and see if you can whip something up. Then grab a Writer's Market book at the library or search online for short fiction publishers and send it out. It won't do any harm, and you might end up with success before you know it!
So - how does one go about writing a short story for publication? I won't call myself an expert, because I'm not widely published (yet!), but my current tact is to study the themes of published short stories and try to apply what I've learned to my own writing. Here are my observations, boiled down to five easy-to-follow steps.
1.) Set the setting.
Each published short story I've read takes place in a specific place and time, be it Prehistoric Africa, a Southern U.S. farm in the early 20th century, or present-day Boston. The setting is established early on, clearly and succinctly. Know your setting from the start, and know it well.
2.) Introduce characters.
You can't have too many characters in a short story without making things confusing, so each character needs to be unique and powerful. You could create an old man with one eye who loves the opera, perhaps, or a young woman searching for fame in a big city as a yodeler.
3.) Make something happen.
It should be a new event in the life of your characters, or an old event that happens in a new way. For example, a stranger approaches the house in the middle of the night. A big producer comes to a small town and decides to buy a young man's play. The 8:05 train fails to show up at the station on schedule. This initial, unusual event acts as the catalyst for the story.
4.) Follow the characters' reactions to the story's conclusion.
The way the characters deal with the new event will determine the direction of the story. Does the man who loses his job get depressed or start a new life? Does the passenger who misses her flight find love or lose it? At this point, there are usually a series of mini-climaxes leading up to the conclusion, in which the action of the story is resolved. Or, potentially, the reader is left to furnish his or her own resolution.
5.) Give the story a flavor.
None of the above items need to be incredibly bizarre to make a good story. You can write about a Midwestern housewife coming across a bird with a broken wing on her way to the supermarket, or a tax attorney losing papers for an important account. Adding your own special twists on language, voice, theme, etc., will make the story engaging, and make it yours.
I know it's not necessarily as easy as all that, but it's a start. Give it a try and see if you can whip something up. Then grab a Writer's Market book at the library or search online for short fiction publishers and send it out. It won't do any harm, and you might end up with success before you know it!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Second Meeting of the Writeous Writers
Okay, it's about time I posted about the second meeting of my new writer's group, Writeous Writers. Once again, I met with amazing women, ate some amazing food, and learned some amazing things.
Suzy, who is new to the group since last month, is working on a non-fiction book about making workers more productive. I think she's got a great shot at it, because she already has regular speaking engagements presenting material similar to what she plans to put in the book, which will form an important part of her marketing plan. She gave us some great information about formatting non-fiction submissions for publication: note that the process can be very different from submitting fiction, so make sure that you have the right information. Dee brought in a short story (yay for rounding out our genre count!), and we worked more on novel manuscripts by Michille and myself. I was glad to hear that my critiquers approved of the brief poems I've included in my manuscript. I love the way that Tolkien incorporates poetry and song into his works, but I know that those forms can be very hit or miss, so I guess I'll just have to wait and see with those.
Next month we're going to have a quick session about websites before we get into the critiquing. Remember, a website is a great way to promote your work, and Weebly is a great way to set up your website!
Suzy, who is new to the group since last month, is working on a non-fiction book about making workers more productive. I think she's got a great shot at it, because she already has regular speaking engagements presenting material similar to what she plans to put in the book, which will form an important part of her marketing plan. She gave us some great information about formatting non-fiction submissions for publication: note that the process can be very different from submitting fiction, so make sure that you have the right information. Dee brought in a short story (yay for rounding out our genre count!), and we worked more on novel manuscripts by Michille and myself. I was glad to hear that my critiquers approved of the brief poems I've included in my manuscript. I love the way that Tolkien incorporates poetry and song into his works, but I know that those forms can be very hit or miss, so I guess I'll just have to wait and see with those.
Next month we're going to have a quick session about websites before we get into the critiquing. Remember, a website is a great way to promote your work, and Weebly is a great way to set up your website!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Writer's Market and Writing More
More on Novel & Short Story Writer's Market: I received the book a few days ago, and it's a great resource. It has articles on writing and getting published, tips and tricks, and lots of information on markets for short stories and novels (as the name would imply). I especially liked the symbols in the literary magazine section: they indicated at a glance whether the journal mostly accepts new or established writers, whether the journal pays, and where it's located (US or other), among other things. At first it made me wonder if creating my own literary journal spreadsheet from internet searches was a waste of time, but not all journals are included in the Writer's Market. According to the publication, the included magazines are highly likely to be seeking submissions. To top it off, the entries displayed many EDITOR NAMES. It always made sense to me that an editor would consider a submission addressed to him or her before one addressed simply to "Editor," but I wasn't sure how this information could be found. (Bribery? Top-secret spy missions? Sad puppy-dog eyes?) Still, I'd suggest calling the magazine before submission and asking something like "Is so-and-so still the fiction editor?"
I can't say, however, that having this book has necessarily increased my confidence in my chances of publishing success. I'm reading The Granta Book of the American Short Story in conjunction with the Writer's Market, and it's made me feel somewhat overwhelmed. I'm still working on my novel, up to 31,000 words now, and luckily I haven't had any major writer's block (yet). But I've always been somewhat daunted by the short story. I know that I can manipulate the individual elements with moderate skill, at least upon occasion. I can turn a pretty phrase, build an interesting plot, and even write convincing dialogue. The one thing I'm lacking is that mysterious closure, the ribbon that ties it up into a complete package worthy of consideration for public enlightenment and entertainment. I think what I need is more practice, and more critiques. More on that soon.
I can't say, however, that having this book has necessarily increased my confidence in my chances of publishing success. I'm reading The Granta Book of the American Short Story in conjunction with the Writer's Market, and it's made me feel somewhat overwhelmed. I'm still working on my novel, up to 31,000 words now, and luckily I haven't had any major writer's block (yet). But I've always been somewhat daunted by the short story. I know that I can manipulate the individual elements with moderate skill, at least upon occasion. I can turn a pretty phrase, build an interesting plot, and even write convincing dialogue. The one thing I'm lacking is that mysterious closure, the ribbon that ties it up into a complete package worthy of consideration for public enlightenment and entertainment. I think what I need is more practice, and more critiques. More on that soon.
Friday, May 23, 2008
What if? Writing Prompts
One of the few textbooks I kept from my undergraduate college years is the wonderful What If? Writing Exercises for Fiction Writers by Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter, which is apparently still in print. This fact surprises me, although the inside cover of the book shows a copyright date of 2004, a mere four years ago. Sometimes it feels much longer than that.
Anyways, I know that I'm not supposed to post online any stories that I intend to have published someday, because that makes the story "previously published" and many publications don't accept previously published works. But I would like to showcase my writing, seeing as this is an emerging writer's blog. So instead of posting stories, I will post my responses to exercises in the book. Feel free to comment, but remember, it's just an exercise, not a work of art!
This post is based on the exercise involving taking risks, and involves writing about an experience that never happened to you. Aka, the opposite of writing what you know.
Sweat trickled down my face as I stared at the airplane's exit door. The plane's vibrations jiggled every square inch of my body, which might have proved relaxing under different circumstances. I scrutinized the door, hoping that action would stop my mind from wandering. I read and reread the words printed on the door until they formed a mantra in my head - incaseofemergencyincaseofemergencyincaseofemergency. In case of emergency? Yeah, right. In a few moments I'd be headed out that door, emergency or no emergency, and nothing at this point could save me unless I wanted to be known as a world-class dork for the rest of my life. I sure as hell wasn't about to take the skydiver ride of shame back down to the ground as the rest of my friends fell thousands of feet, bodies floating free through the sky, their limbs writhing like drunken octopi.
(Exercise from What if? Writing Exercises For Fiction Writers, Copyright 2004, Pearson Longman.)
Anyways, I know that I'm not supposed to post online any stories that I intend to have published someday, because that makes the story "previously published" and many publications don't accept previously published works. But I would like to showcase my writing, seeing as this is an emerging writer's blog. So instead of posting stories, I will post my responses to exercises in the book. Feel free to comment, but remember, it's just an exercise, not a work of art!
This post is based on the exercise involving taking risks, and involves writing about an experience that never happened to you. Aka, the opposite of writing what you know.
Sweat trickled down my face as I stared at the airplane's exit door. The plane's vibrations jiggled every square inch of my body, which might have proved relaxing under different circumstances. I scrutinized the door, hoping that action would stop my mind from wandering. I read and reread the words printed on the door until they formed a mantra in my head - incaseofemergencyincaseofemergencyincaseofemergency. In case of emergency? Yeah, right. In a few moments I'd be headed out that door, emergency or no emergency, and nothing at this point could save me unless I wanted to be known as a world-class dork for the rest of my life. I sure as hell wasn't about to take the skydiver ride of shame back down to the ground as the rest of my friends fell thousands of feet, bodies floating free through the sky, their limbs writhing like drunken octopi.
(Exercise from What if? Writing Exercises For Fiction Writers, Copyright 2004, Pearson Longman.)
Monday, May 19, 2008
Urgent Information for New Writers!
I don't normally post twice in one day, but I just ran across an amazing find that I needed to share.
According to the blurb, Duotrope's Digest is "a database of over 2200 current markets for short fiction, poetry, and novels/collections." It has many useful options for searching the database, such as by payscale or genre. I think that it will prove very useful as I begin to submit short stories for publication. And don't forget that it's recommended that a writer read some of the stories from any magazine before submitting, so keep that in mind.
Thanks to Jason Sanford's blog for information about Duotrope, online literary magazine rankings, and also a recommendation for the new Novel & Short Story Writer's Market that I'm going to get right away!
According to the blurb, Duotrope's Digest is "a database of over 2200 current markets for short fiction, poetry, and novels/collections." It has many useful options for searching the database, such as by payscale or genre. I think that it will prove very useful as I begin to submit short stories for publication. And don't forget that it's recommended that a writer read some of the stories from any magazine before submitting, so keep that in mind.
Thanks to Jason Sanford's blog for information about Duotrope, online literary magazine rankings, and also a recommendation for the new Novel & Short Story Writer's Market that I'm going to get right away!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
On Motivation
A couple of days ago I got back in touch with Karen Syed, who taught a great class at the Carroll County Community College last year about how to get your works published.
Main points to remember:
- Get your work out there wherever you can
- Craft a tagline that tells people about your work and how to contact you
- Learn how to write flawless query and cover letters
- Marketing a book is just as important as writint it
- Do something every day to advance your writing career!
Now that's she's seen what I'm working on, she's made up her mind that I have no choice but to go forward. Talk about motivation!
Karen is a publisher who owns the publishing company Echelon Press. She also has a line of books for children and young adults AND she is a successful writer and public speaker in her own right, so I have a lot to live up to!
Main points to remember:
- Get your work out there wherever you can
- Craft a tagline that tells people about your work and how to contact you
- Learn how to write flawless query and cover letters
- Marketing a book is just as important as writint it
- Do something every day to advance your writing career!
Now that's she's seen what I'm working on, she's made up her mind that I have no choice but to go forward. Talk about motivation!
Karen is a publisher who owns the publishing company Echelon Press. She also has a line of books for children and young adults AND she is a successful writer and public speaker in her own right, so I have a lot to live up to!
Monday, March 24, 2008
GLVWG Annual Conference - My First Writer's Conference!
I've decided to take the plunge - I'm attending my first writer's conference this weekend! The Write Stuff conference is being held by the Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group in Allentown, PA from Friday, March 28th to Saturday, March 29th. People will attend the conference from all over the country, and I can't wait to meet them!
I first became interested in the conference when I saw that Karen Syed would attend as a speaker. Karen taught a wonderful class last year at the Carroll County Community College about how to get published. She demystified the whole process for me and helped me to once again regain my interest in becoming a published author.
Hope to see you there!
I first became interested in the conference when I saw that Karen Syed would attend as a speaker. Karen taught a wonderful class last year at the Carroll County Community College about how to get published. She demystified the whole process for me and helped me to once again regain my interest in becoming a published author.
Hope to see you there!
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