How Do You Define Writing Success?

Do you define having achieved success with your writing as getting a book deal with a major publisher? As finishing a manuscript? As getting to share your writing with thousands of readers? As sharing it with just one person, or even just yourself? When we think of successful writers we usually think of the big … Continue reading How Do You Define Writing Success?

Iterating the Writing Process

I’ve been reading Gabriela Pereira’s wonderful book DIY MFA in which she outlines a do-it-yourself alternative to a traditional MFA program. I’ve chosen not to continue with my education with an MFA program. One reason is because of the cost, but I’ve greatly enjoyed pursuing continued education on my own through reading lots of books … Continue reading Iterating the Writing Process

Behind the Scenes of Somewhere Only We Know: Writing a New Story

Before signing my name on copies of Somewhere Only We Know, I first write a phrase that captures one of the main messages of the book: “Write a New Story.” Somewhere Only We Know attempts to tackle the very difficult subject of abuse. The book features four girls who experience different kinds of abuse—emotional, physical, … Continue reading Behind the Scenes of Somewhere Only We Know: Writing a New Story

Finding Motivation

Being self-employed is hard. Getting to work from home and write is what I’ve always wanted to do, so of course I’m incredibly grateful. But a lot of days it’s difficult to get to work. It’s hard to sit down at the computer every day and write when I don’t often get to see visible … Continue reading Finding Motivation

Plotter or Pantser?

Writers tend to fall into one of two categories. The first, “plotters,” are those who plan out everything for their stories ahead of time. They outline, write backstories, and try to figure out the details of the whole story before they write a word. The second category, “pantsers,” are those who write “by the seat … Continue reading Plotter or Pantser?

Reading Your Own Writing

I’ve been reading through Somewhere Only We Know for the first time since I did my final check before publication in order to pull out quotes and passages that I can use for promotional stuff, and it is definitely a weird experience. Two thoughts constantly run through my head as I read it. The first … Continue reading Reading Your Own Writing