The Writing Life
From the Front Lines: The post-book blues
Happiness is a fallacy, and other things you tell yourself once your book is published. Read More “From the Front Lines: The post-book blues”
Bragging about books
What if you’re a writer who isn’t a voracious reader? Read More “Bragging about books”
Nine strategies for handling criticism as a writer
Follow these tips to develop a thick skin and avoid popping when people react negatively to your writing. Read More “Nine strategies for handling criticism as a writer”
What happens when your family reads your memoir for the first time?
An author shares how different family members reacted to reading her memoir. Read More “What happens when your family reads your memoir for the first time?”
Stop trash-talking your first draft
Want a surefire way to have a happier, more productive writing life? Stop calling your writing names. Read More “Stop trash-talking your first draft”
When our writing gets us in trouble
Sharing hard truths can lead to hard consequences. Is your story worth the risk? Read More “When our writing gets us in trouble”
Do you really have to write every day?
What does an ideal writing life look like? We asked successful authors to share their essential goals, habits, and routines. Read More “Do you really have to write every day?”
What to take to a writing residency or retreat
Based on their previous experiences, writers provide packing tips and advice on how to maximize a writing residency or retreat. Read More “What to take to a writing residency or retreat”
When it’s OK to write ‘hack’
Sometimes, self-care for writers means writing to pay bills first – and not feeling guilty about it. Read More “When it’s OK to write ‘hack’”
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”