How do you make sure people—readers, agents, editors—keep reading Chapter One of your Great American Novel? How do we get them to Chapter Two? After publishing three works of fiction and after writing (and discarding) several novels, I've figured out how to crack the code of … [Read more...] about Six Tips for Chapter One Success
YA
Four Ways to Feed Off Feedback
If you're like me, sometimes it's tough to process feedback on your writing in an effective way. Doesn't matter whether it's your writers' group, beta readers, reviewers, your agent, your editor—none of us humans are wired to welcome criticism. I talk through my formula for … [Read more...] about Four Ways to Feed Off Feedback
How a Query Can Help You Write Your Novel
When I headed to the Chicago Writing Workshop to pitch agents, you can bet I brought my best boots, a big smile, and a query letter--polished to a high shine. Better than that, I had a complete manuscript. The complete manuscript came courtesy of years of hard work and several … [Read more...] about How a Query Can Help You Write Your Novel
YA Wonders from This Year
I've read many amazing books this year! Find all the reviews at my Goodreads page. A Time to Dance (YA, MG): About pursuing artistic passion (dance) and losing a limb. My review at Teachers Workshop is here. A Wrinkle in Time (YA, MG): About love and hope and interstellar … [Read more...] about YA Wonders from This Year
Why Caleb, Now?
I just posted the first episodes of a new novel, CALEB IN MINOR KEY, at Radish Fiction, a place where writers post new works for free as well as for a small fee. I'm excited. But I'm also nervous. Caleb is biracial. Here's the book blurb: All Caleb wants to do is rule … [Read more...] about Why Caleb, Now?
There Was a Reason Prince Was Purple
His Purple Highness, the Prince we all loved, rocked a color that is neither red nor blue. It's more than a royal shade; it's the perfect blend that holds all things. Masculine and feminine; hot and cool. Two distinct identities in a loving embrace. I had my own purple moment … [Read more...] about There Was a Reason Prince Was Purple