Fiction
Fictionalizing your hometown
This is home: the scratch of dewy grass, barely alive after the heat of summer, still sharp and squelching from morning and evening sprinkler sessions. … Read More “Fictionalizing your hometown”
From the Front Lines: When should an author write in the second person?
It happens just like this: You are sitting at your keyboard, a lot intimidated by the story or essay you want to write next. You … Read More “From the Front Lines: When should an author write in the second person?”
From the Front Lines: How unconscious bias can affect your fiction
Make blind spots work for you (and your characters). Read More “From the Front Lines: How unconscious bias can affect your fiction”
How to create complex, dynamic characters in fiction
Creating truly memorable characters requires time, patience, and trust. Read More “How to create complex, dynamic characters in fiction”
How to effectively use dialogue tags in fiction
Here’s why editors frown upon overly creative dialogue tags – and why you should, too. Read More “How to effectively use dialogue tags in fiction”
From the Front Lines: Finding the perfect pacing for your prose
The secret to good writing that never confuses, bores, or leads the reader astray? It’s all in the timing. Read More “From the Front Lines: Finding the perfect pacing for your prose”
Tips for writing for a global audience
Small changes can make a big difference in making your writing more accessible to readers from outside the United States. Here’s how to start. Read More “Tips for writing for a global audience”
Ask The Writer: When is it OK to use multiple points of view in a novel?
“Writers are often instructed to use only one point of view in a novel. However, I note that some authors use multiple points of view – often in the same chapter. Are multiple points of view OK if transitions are not jarring and the reader isn’t overloaded?” Read More “Ask The Writer: When is it OK to use multiple points of view in a novel?”
Pro tips for writing and publishing speculative fiction
Seasoned writers explain what speculative fiction is, and literary agents share how you can get it published. Read More “Pro tips for writing and publishing speculative fiction”
Featured Posts
5 things a personal essay needs to succeed (and sell)
Here are the five components that should be in any truthteller’s toolkit. Read More “5 things a personal essay needs to succeed (and sell)”
Gigi Will Know: Are editors sick of COVID-19 pitches yet?
“I want to write about the COVID-19 pandemic, but I’m worried literary journal editors are saturated with similar submissions.” Read More “Gigi Will Know: Are editors sick of COVID-19 pitches yet?”
Virtual learning opportunities for writers
Since conferences aren’t back on the table for most writers just yet, here are some online learning resources for craft-hungry scribes. Read More “Virtual learning opportunities for writers”