Chances are, you’re part of the DIY MFA community because you want something more from your writing life. But do you know what that something is? What, exactly, are you looking for? Everyone has a different definition of success. For some, it’s the act of going from being a writer to being a published writer…. Read more »
Especially among first-time authors, turning over your beloved project to an editor may seem like an incredibly daunting proposition. Some authors may be hesitant to trust their editor, or else they might not know what to expect from the process. I’ve heard a lot of misconceptions about editors’ intentions and their purpose—ranging from “they’re just… Read more »
On 12 November 2016, in the middle of National Novel Writing Month, is the first ever Scrivathon—a charity write-athon inspired by events like the London and Boston Marathons which pair physical stamina with charity fundraising. Scrivathon is tailored specifically for writers, so instead of running for 26 miles, we will write for 24 hours. That’s… Read more »
November is my favorite month of the year for one BIG reason: NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month. If you’ve never heard of NaNo and you want a unique motivational writing experience, you should check it out. It’s one of the most intense, community-focused writing events I’ve had the pleasure to be a part of…. Read more »
It’s an old observation, but an accurate one: public speaking is the #1 fear for many people. This, unfortunately, includes many writers. Public speaking, like most things, is less scary when you’re well-prepared. I’ve been reading my work in public for many years, and here are some things I’ve learned. They may help you. 1)… Read more »
When someone visits your author website, or reads a post on Facebook, or checks out your book, there is a goal behind it—something you would like them to do next. You want them to read, comment, share, buy, subscribe—something. But are you actually asking readers do it? This request statement is called a call to action…. Read more »
I’m not writing today’s post just for the DIY MFA community. I’m writing it for me, because I need to be reminded of this topic every day of my life. Just looking at the title gets my hackles up. What do you mean, I can’t do it alone? Never say CAN’T to me! I… Read more »
Writing retreats can be a fantastic way to spend a weekend. Whether you’re starting a new project, finishing one up, or just needing a few days away from the hustle and bustle of life to really focus, they can be a great way to get a lot of good words on the page. And they… Read more »
For a lot of writers, the ultimate goal is to get picked up by one of the Big Five publishing companies. You know the ones: the ones with lots of $$$, the brand-name recognition, the Pulitzer Prize-winning authors. Believe me, I get it, and if that’s what you want, more than anything, I wish you… Read more »
In my last Five on Friday post, I wrote about what I learned at Hippocamp 2016, a creative nonfiction conference in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was a smaller conference than those I usually attend, and I partially chose it for that reason. Here are five reasons to attend a smaller writing conference over a big one: 1)… Read more »
