The pleasures and perils of prologues
Here are some tips on how to use one skillfully—and when not to use one at all Read More “The pleasures and perils of prologues”
Fiction
5 ways into a story
An experienced writer of short fiction offers a broad range of entry points that can get you started. Read More “5 ways into a story”
Make your characters’ thoughts dramatic
What goes on in their minds is a valuable tool of fiction you can use to reveal people, build tension, and more Read More “Make your characters’ thoughts dramatic”
Expletives deleted
There’s nothing like a ‘there is’ phrase to suck the energy out of a sentence Read More “Expletives deleted”
Writing Powerful Characters: A 13-Point Checklist
To write a compelling story, you must thwart your character’s desire. These questions will keep you on the right track. Read More “Writing Powerful Characters: A 13-Point Checklist”
Featured Posts
Opportunities for Writers: February 2023 Calls for Submissions
February 2023 Calls for Submissions These are the writing opportunities and contests that caught our eye and are published in the February issue of The … Read More “Opportunities for Writers: February 2023 Calls for Submissions”
Consistency across your YA series
The key to writing a great YA series (or MG series) is knowing your characters and plotlines inside and out – while giving yourself the flexibility to modify things when needed. Here are four things to live by when writing a series, based on tips from middle grade and young adult authors who have been there. Read More “Consistency across your YA series”
25 Sensory Writing Prompts to Improve Detail & Description
By most accounts, there are more than five senses. Some experts say there are seven, some as many as 20. But narrowing in on at least the five classical senses can lend a much-needed “sense” of detail to your writing. Here are five prompts for each of those five classic senses. Read More “25 Sensory Writing Prompts to Improve Detail & Description”