We’ve already talked about how characters, plot, and conflict are frequent sources of literary themes. But one building block of storytelling that we haven’t covered yet is setting. It’s as important as the other three “blocks,” using location, time period, and other elements to play a pivotal role in the external conflict and the protagonist’s… Read more »
Like many writers, I write because I can’t imagine not doing it—not because I always love writing. Some days, I decidedly don’t love it. Sometimes I have to write even when I’m not inspired (that’s what it means to have a career rather than a hobby). So I’ve developed techniques to keep my butt in… Read more »
Hey there word nerds! Today I have the pleasure of hosting Gina Cascone and Bryony Williams Sheppard on the show. This mother-daughter powerhouse team has co-authored the picture book Around the World Right Now, a multicultural adventure through our world’s 24 time zones. Gina is the author of 30 books in several different genres, and Bryony… Read more »
So you’ve made the commitment to write a creative nonfiction essay. Maybe it’s for your blog or, if you’re lucky, someone is paying you to write about your experiences. But how much of that piece should be about you? Where do you draw the line between yourself and the research that you owe to your… Read more »
“I’ve read all of John Grisham’s books. What other legal fiction authors would you recommend?” This is probably the most common reading question I’m asked at my day job as a librarian. For a long time, there was only one other author that wrote like Grisham – Scott Turow. Turow is often credited with inventing… Read more »
When I set out to write The Hawkweed Prophecy, I was struck by the idea of two girls switched at birth and the teenagers they’d become. I had never written a novel before. At this point, I had just finished the script for The Little Prince and had worked with a team, turning in drafts… Read more »
Today I am delighted to have debut novelist Katherine Nouri Hughes on the show! Kate is publishing her debut, The Mapmaker’s Daughter, at the age of 67. Her book is a remarkable feat not only in its scope, but in its depth. Listen in as we discuss the different and largely unknown (in western culture)… Read more »
Last year, I attended a national writing conference. I settled into my seat for the spotlight author interview, pencil poised, ready to absorb lessons from this New York Times bestselling author. The moderator pulled out his list of questions, smiled at the author, and said, “I promise I won’t ask where you get your ideas.”… Read more »
I don’t know why it took me so long to read James Scott Bell’s Revision and Self Editing for Publication (it’s incredible!) but I do know it changed the way I looked at my story, my characters, and what really mattered in my plot. What did Bell say about back cover copy? Not too much…other… Read more »
Sometimes you need a break. A walk can refresh the brain cells. A change of scenery can spark new thoughts. Taking out the trash, or doing some other small but worthy action can be a perfect palliative. Quick and focused, the sojourn lets you return to the keyboard undistracted and morally superior. But this article… Read more »
