Is there a writer on your “Nice” list this holiday season? Are you stumped for a perfect gift for said writer? With the help of some of my author friends, I’ve compiled a list of gifts that will brighten any writer’s day. And let’s be honest—some days, those who wrestle with the written word need…
I sold a book last month based on an idea mentioned casually over lunch with a friend who has talked books and writing with me for over 25 years. (He’s not a writer, but he is a voracious reader.) I finished writing that book two years ago. I wrote it about it in December of…
Here we are, in the final days of what some writers know only as National Novel Writing Month. Regardless of how many words you generated during November, you’ve undoubtedly learned some valuable things about yourself as a writer: what motivates, sustains or inspires you. Or, if you chose not to participate, maybe you learned what…
Because my first book publishes in March, I’ve been approached for a few months now to speak at various events, primarily on the subject of debut novels and my journey to publication. None of these venues have offered to pay me, though others on the panels are being paid either a speaking fee or given…
It can be discouraging to be a writer—or any artist for that matter. Self-doubt, rejection after rejection, bitter-tasting criticisms, more self-doubt, long hours of hard work with little or no financial gain, and yet more self-doubt. (Did I mention self-doubt?) That’s why it’s important for creatives to remind ourselves that there are benefits to this…