September 2004

The Writer

The essential resource for writers

Join thousands of successful writers when you subscribe to The Writer magazine. Each month The Writer is full of features you can use to improve your writing, including before-and-after examples of improved writing, more literary markets than ever before, practical solutions for writing problems, selected literary magazine profiles, tips from famous authors and hands-on advice.

Features

One size doesn't fit all

By Judith Rosen

In picking a publisher, what's right for one writer might not be right for another. Our author surveys the landscape, describing the general types of publishers and the pros and cons of each.

Make your book proposal stand out

By Moira Allen

In the last of a two-part article on selling your nonfiction book, we offer a disciplined approach to crafting a book proposal that will persuade a publisher your book is marketable.

Pico Iyer turns travel into literary gold

By Bethanne Kelly Patrick

Pico Iyer, one of today's most respected travel writers, essayists and book reviewers, sees "the journey inward" as a writer's ultimate fascination--even when he's outward bound to distant places.

Get off your duff and write, says Anton Chekhov

By Bob Blaisdell

In his often blunt letters, the great Russian master of the short story offered valuable writing advice that still rings true.

Write a novel in 30 days

By M.J. Rose

As a preview to National Novel Writing Month in November, a novelist offers tips on getting your first draft down in 30 days.

Departments

Letters

From the editor

Where writers are in demand

Take note

How a parable of Christianity set in the 18th century managed to turn a heavenly profit, plus other literary notes, Dear Writer, and information on contests and conferences.

Breakthrough

A good book idea is just the start

By John Fuhrman

In landing a publisher, our writer learned that marketing ideas and his own involvement in promotion can mean just as much as a good idea.

Get started

Must-have tools for writers

By Moira Allen

Now that you've established your writing routine, here are some basics you'll need for your writing space, including your own computer and an Internet connection.

Off the cuff

Hat trick

By Kelly James-Enger

How does a nonfiction writer make the transition when it's time to work on her fiction? Well, it's not only a matter of what's in her head, but what's on it.

Net//Working

Where to find markets online

By Moira Allen

The Internet offers many sources of market information. Here's a look at the various types and what they do and don't offer.

Bottom line

Turn freelance setbacks into opportunities

By Jennifer Lawler

What seem like writing roadblocks can actually be turned into profitable learning experiences, our writer says.

WriteStuff

A review of The Art of the Book Proposal by Eric Maisel, plus brief reviews of Every Writer's Guide to Copyright and Publishing Law by Ellen M. Kozak, Television Writing From the Inside Out by Larry Brody, Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Rennie Browne and Dave King, and Write Away by Elizabeth George.

Market focus

Sweet spots in a tough market

By John F. Baker

Our expert describes a fairly tough market and suggests the kinds of writing that offer the best chance of cutting a deal right now.

How I write

Daniel Silva

For bestselling author Daniel Silva, managing point of view and scene count helps control a sprawling novel.