Finding hope through story
A young adult novelist uncovers the truth she never meant to write. Read More “Finding hope through story”
Essays About Writing
New year, old fear
The start of a new year can bring as many anxieties as it does possibilities. Will this really be your year, the year you eat … Read More “New year, old fear”
Idea generating machine
Walking helped this writer heal physically and create more story ideas. Read More “Idea generating machine”
Reaching for books that go bump in the night
Why do we reach for dark stories in dark times? Read More “Reaching for books that go bump in the night”
The writer’s heartbeat
“This is an engine problem, not a heart problem.” The cardiologist stares steadily into my eyes, calm and reassuring. He isn’t rushed – yet I … Read More “The writer’s heartbeat”
Where (not) to look for meaningful material
Don’t go slumming, suggests one writer to her fellow essayists. Read More “Where (not) to look for meaningful material”
How to send a message without annoying your readership
My dad was a doctor for a really, really long time. He’s been retired for a few years now, but he can’t shake the pillar-of-society … Read More “How to send a message without annoying your readership”
How collaboration – and a dose of humility – can improve a book
Author Melissa Hart shares how she grudgingly changed her memoir to a nonfiction book at an editor’s request – and found it ultimately worked better. Read More “How collaboration – and a dose of humility – can improve a book”
A writer’s argument for political correctness
Choosing our words carefully creates a welcoming space on the page for all readers – and it makes for better writing, too. Read More “A writer’s argument for political correctness”
A veteran journalist shares her path to success
How a string of menial jobs made one writer a better journalist. Read More “A veteran journalist shares her path to success”
Featured Posts
Pro tips for avoiding clichéd characters in fiction
Banish those walking clichés from your work for good with these tips. Read More “Pro tips for avoiding clichéd characters in fiction”
Character interlands: A new way to develop the character worksheet
Type “character worksheets” into a search engine, and you’ll find hundreds of resources to develop your protagonist and other characters. Some of the worksheets are … Read More “Character interlands: A new way to develop the character worksheet”
4 ways to instantly tighten your fiction
Editor-proof your stories with these tips. Read More “4 ways to instantly tighten your fiction”