How to Start a Memoir
Many people wonder how to start a memoir, and if it’s even worth doing. Yes, it is absolutely worth doing. But not every event from your life merits inclusion. You have to be selective. Here’s how …
So, you got a query rejection.
Query rejection hurts. You’re putting your shiny new novel out into the world, just for people to say “no, thank you.” Here are some of the best ways to deal with a query rejection.
Writing Good Sentences
Writing good sentences is at the heart of telling a good story. However, it’s not the first issue to tackle in revisions. First, finish your draft. Second, step away from your manuscript. Third, edit macro issues such as plot holes, character development, and story arc. Don’t fret about sentence craft until the bones of the story are in place and working well.
Premise Vs Plot
The concept of premise vs. plot is a common stumbling block for many writers. They’ll think they have a killer idea for a manuscript lined up, but when they sit down to write, the energy fizzles out partway through. Why isn’t a great idea enough?
3 Helpful Tips for How to Rewrite a Novel
Rewriting a book doesn’t mean your idea or your writing are bad. It means there’s a better way to show readers the essence of what you’re trying to tell them. Here are 3 helpful tips to get you started!
Why Rewriting A Book Isn’t A Bad Thing
Rewriting a book may seem like a daunting task, but it’s worth it. Not only will rewriting develop your narrative, but it’ll make you a better writer. Here’s how.
Boring Characters
Hello. My name is Blandy. My appearance is normal. My eyes, hair, and build are ordinary. My opinions are private. My feelings are mild. I have a job in an office where I work. For leisure, I either look outside or inside. I am a boring character.
Tag, You're It! Using Dialogue Tags Effectively
Dialogue tags are invisible and useful when done well, but they can kick a reader out of a story so quickly when they aren’t. Let's talk about which ones work, and which are less effective.
Writing Under a Pseudonym
Many authors write under a pseudonym, also known as a pen name. If you think writing under an alias is in your future, here are some criteria to help you decide. I’ve also got some tips on how best to come up with one.
Writing Shy Characters
How do you write shy characters? Shy people often have rich inner worlds that are teeming with life; they’re just selective about who they let inside. Here are a few ways to help you show your shy character’s true nature.
How to Be a Writing Buddy
How is a writing buddy different from a critique partner or writing partner? The terms are often used interchangeably, but I happen to think that a “writing buddy” is friendlier. So here’s how to be a good one, and boost your own critique and writing skills at the same time.
Publishing Credits
If you're a non-fiction or memoir writer, here's essential advice on how to map out your path to a book deal.
Episode 35: Gretchen McNeil, YA Horror/Suspense Novelist
Dark YA novelist Gretchen McNeil joins Mary in an episode all about recognizing and executing a good story idea. They discuss the shifting young adult book market and embracing diversity, mastering storytelling structure and the importance of shaping the reader's experience, and the controversial subject of IP development.
Tips for Writing Theme
The act of writing theme is an important ingredient in storytelling, but it doesn’t have to resound with Meaning-with-a-capital-M. In fact, theme works best when it’s subtle and even open to interpretation. Here are three tips that’ll help you incorporate theme into your story.
Advice for Beginning Writers
Some writers have been scribbling stories for so many years, they can’t remember a time when they weren’t writing. Others—like me—specifically remember when they decided to attempt a novel and began typing their first paragraphs. I want to share some advice for beginning writers here who might be feeling overwhelmed, insufficient, or daunted by the road ahead.
How to End a Chapter
Approaching how to end a chapter is tricky territory. It’s very easy to lose your reader in the white space and page break there, unless you give them a reason to stay and turn the page. Distractions are always beckoning, and nowhere is your grasp on your audience more tenuous. Check out this video to learn how to end your chapters in a compelling way!
Tips for Writing Child Characters
Whether you’re writing a picture book, a chapter book or a middle grade novel, the star of your story is a child character. Here are some tips on how to write a believable child character.
Writing Realistic Dialogue
When done right, writing realistic dialogue isn’t simple because people aren’t. Here are some tips and tricks for writing dialogue that sounds natural and fits the character who’s speaking.
40 GOOD IDEAS FOR BOOKS to Get You Inspired
Uncap those pens, pop open those PCs, and crack your knuckles. It’s time to dive into good ideas for books, and how to brainstorm. Good Story Company is here to help you stay inspired with our quirky list of good ideas for books.
Picture Book Author Illustrator
If you’re writing a picture book, how should you handle illustrations? Let’s compare illustrating your own manuscript, finding another illustrator, or leaving it to the publisher.