Welcome back! In my last column I talked about the immense value of using Story Grid’s Scene Analysis Template to read with purpose, by learning how to read (and analyze a scene) like a writer. To recap: the bulk of the Scene Analysis Template focuses on how a working scene creates a Story Event—or an… Read more »
Mark your calendars for August 6th. That’s when Alison Weir’s newest historical fiction novel – Katheryn Howard: The Tainted Queen – will be available in bookshops and online. Better still, preorder it now and you’ll be among the first to have it. Though some describe Weir’s non-fiction as “popular” history (she even uses the term… Read more »
Anyone who loves mysteries and thrillers should have at least a passing acquaintance with the great Daphne du Maurier. I know this, because my own acquaintance with her was extremely passing until recently, despite a personal connection. (Rebecca is one of my mother’s favorite books and my younger brother was almost named Max. My oldest… Read more »
Essays are having a hot moment right now, but they’ve been around for a long time. The word “essay” originates from the French word “essayer,” meaning “to try.” The form has certainly morphed with time, but in a sense boils down to the writer figuring out what they think and feel by writing about it…. Read more »
Minimalism has been a buzzword in our culture for several years now, perhaps culminating in the huge success of Marie Kondo’s KonMari method and TV show. Untold numbers of people have found great benefits in applying minimalist principals to their homes, wardrobes, and lives. I believe minimalism is especially beneficial to writers. When there is… Read more »
Writers know that reading is essential to growing their craft, but did you know there’s a difference between reading for fun and reading analysis? When I became a Certified Story Grid Editor in 2019 (Story Grid is an editing methodology that provides practical tools and tips to help writers in the writing process), this understanding… Read more »
‘Tis the season to celebrate books! Because reading and literacy are so important there are a number of book-oriented events on the annual calendar. Some are regional, some global. And they all emphasize the importance of reading for kids. As writers (and illustrators!) for children we should be deeply invested in spreading literacy and a… Read more »
Web Editor’s Note: Hey there Word Nerds! I am SO excited to introduce Sara Farmer, our newest columnist, and her column, From Cozies to Cold-Blooded. She’ll be talking about all things mystery, suspense, thrillers and more! For her first article, she’ll be discussing the lesser-known and absolutely fascinating thrillers of Louisa May Alcott. — Bess… Read more »
Anyone who’s been through a high school English course knows a host of literary terms, from “archetype” and “alliteration” to “satire” and “trope.” But do you know where these words come from? I’ve been writing about etymology —word origins—for about 10 years, first on my blog UselessEtymology.com, and now in a middle-grade nonfiction book Once Upon… Read more »
When a child learns words, first they hear them. Sounds repeated again and again enter the ear and find the place in the mind where language forms. Then they speak these words, again and again. In the moment of learning language, words have magic, make food appear, conjure a parent eager to pick you up,… Read more »
