Originally published in Nelson Literary Agency’s monthly newsletter Here are three examples of a formula I’ve seen many times in our query inbox. See if you can figure out why the formula doesn’t work…and why we’re probably going to pass on reading the sample pages: Example #1: Middle Grade “Protagonist and his friends go on many exciting adventures….
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On Being a Waffle
Yeah, that’s me. The human waffle. No, I’m not running for office, but I am trying to be Elastic Writer Girl and make my story fit all the different opinions I managed to attract at Colorado Gold. See, I have this great story. Everyone I’ve talked to loves it. So of course I submit it…
Concerning Conferences: A noob’s thoughts on time, worth, and industry
It’s our honor to introduce new victim blogger, Josh Dorne, who you might’ve met at the Colorado Gold. Take it away, Josh…. Let’s pretend, for one second, that I know what I’m talking about. For our current intents and purposes, it doesn’t matter. I mean, come on! This is the Internet. But as of this writing…
Rocky Mountain Writer #58
Jason Evans & Writing Authentic African-American Characters The guest this time is writer Jason Evans, who discusses the highlights of workshop he presented at Colorado Gold called “Writing Authentic African-American Characters.” He’s reprising that workshop on Saturday, Oct. 15 at the Belmar Library in Lakewood. (Check the events page for more detail.) On the podcast, Jason…
Get out of jail–er, writer’s block–card
To escape writer’s block, douse the raging fears and critical inner voice, and find a route to fresh thinking. For me, that route has been to write to my friend, Pam, and explain what’s blocking my writing. How my BFF helps me escape writer’s block Dear Pam, Here I am again, writing to you because…