"Why do all of your stories reflect your faith?" It's a common question for an inspirational author.
Ever wonder why Mary Higgins Clark continues to write such fascinating suspense? Ask Stephen King why he dreams up so many tales of horror. Question Danielle Steele as to her reason for book after book of unapologetic romantic drama. Why is J.K. Rowling so at home in the world of witches, warlocks and other strange and mystical creatures?
Ask any author in any genre why he or she writes what they write. Chances are you'll get pretty much the same answer. They write what they think about, what they're familiar with, what they're passionate about.
They write from their hearts.
In a world where most forms of entertainmentincluding the print industryhave become increasingly more risqué, some writers still choose to pen novels for the less popular Christian market. Writers such as Janette Okes, Lori Wick, Robin Jones Gunn and so many others write words of hope and encouragement. They create characters who either trust God through every obstacle, or learn to do so before the last page.Their sweetly romantic tales keep sex behind closed doors and within the confines of holy matrimony.
Why? Because this is the essence of who those writers are.
A scripture in the book of Matthew reads, " the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart." (New American Standard Bible) Taking that statement a step furtherwhat is in our hearts will be reflected not only in the words we speak aloud, but what we think andif we're writerswhat we write about.
I love sweet romancehence my chosen genre of inspirational fiction. Call me old-fashioned, but I truly believe romance is more romantic when some things are left to the imagination, and when consummation of a couple's feelings takes place behind closed doors. Sex should be something beyond special, and just between those two peopleit's not meant for public display.
Many writers of Christian fiction fail to realize their own ministry. Within the pages of their books, readers find encouragement and hope. They find a reason to keep believing that prayer changes thingsa glimmer of light in a world that grows darker with every passing day. Without preaching, and steering clear of denominational tenets and didactics, seeds are planted. With a little tending on the part of the reader, those seeds can flourish and become a renewed trust in God, bringing about prayer-filled actions and reactions and a fresh, positive outlook on life.
Another scripture states that God's word will not return to Him "void"meaning empty or unfulfilled. Every person who reads the pages of an inspirational novel is absorbing words penned under inspiration given by the Creator of the Universe. Hidden within those pages is something that reader needs. Perhaps a reminder to pray about every situation in his life. Or maybe a mental nudge to become more familiar with the Word of God. Who knows what readers might take away with them from the words of an inspirational novel?
Am I willing to make the effort of writing an entire book on the chance that somewhere, some young woman might find a new determination to remain sexually untainted until her marriage vows are spoken? Yes. Is it worth all the hours of writing to point someone in the direction of Christ and Calvary? Without a moment's hesitation, unequivocally, yes.
My heart says it's worth it.
© 2008 Delia Latham
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Ordinary Inspiration
"Good writers are in the business of leaving signposts saying, Tour my world, see and feel it through my eyes; I am your guide." Unknown
"The good writer, the great writer, has what I have called the three S's: the power to see, to sense, and to say. That is, he is perceptive, he is feeling, and he has the power to express in language what he observes and reacts to." -Lawrence Clark Powell
As a writer, I often sit around and marvel at the things that give me inspiration. It's almost like a special power or gift that allows you to take note of an ordinary, run-of-the-mill incident and be able to discern the deeper meaning behind it.
Example #1: One Saturday morning as I lounged on my bed multi-tasking (watching TV, reading, napping, browsing the net, returning phone calls), I looked over at the wall in my bedroom. Right above the base board were a few unsightly black marks that commonly occur when you haven't repainted a new home and something brushes against it. I was so irritated by that and just kept staring at it. As I stared, I identified the marks as being a line and two small dots. One dot was above the line and the other was below the line and both were centered. It was at that point that I realized that some random object had inadvertently rubbed against the wall to form a division sign.
As I lay on the bed staring at it, I thought about all the division that we encounter everyday and I decided that I was going to write an article emphasizing division in the homes, workplace, and in other various places in our society. The more I thought about it, the more it occurred to me that at that particular time there was some serious division going on in my own house. Talk about the writing on the wall! Then I thought to myself, who thinks about these things????
Example #2: It is required for us to wear a name tag for work. Instead of using the standard lanyard issued, I often had some fancier, more professional looking ones to wear. The one that I had been wearing for the weeks before was cute and stylish, but had one major flaw. I could never get the thing to stay on the side that showed my picture and name. People would often come and compliment me on it while positioning it in the right direction. It was quite annoying. When I got home from work one day, I sat by the computer trying to figure out what I would work on. I glanced to my right and saw the lanyard containing the ID badge. I looked at it and said to myself, "What's the point of wearing the fancy thing if it doesn't really show who I am?" It was then I thought about writing a piece about how our behavior, our actions, and how we carry ourselves as individuals often contradict who we really are on the inside. No matter how fancy we are on the outside, if it doesn't truly reflect who we really are, what's the point? Then I thought about the lanyard symbolizing our lives: All glamour, but not functioning correctly. The possibilities went on, and on, and on. Who does that?
Well, writers do. Writing is a gift. My superpower. It helps me to find meaning in almost anything, and of course, it can also make me overly analytical. If you find a positive message to convey to the world from a different angle, it is worth it.
All rights reserved
Shakera Reid was born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in Miramar, Florida. Her passion in life is counseling and educating youth. Hobbies include traveling, writing and watching movies. Her hope is to encourage others through her writing and to help them in their Christian walk.
"The good writer, the great writer, has what I have called the three S's: the power to see, to sense, and to say. That is, he is perceptive, he is feeling, and he has the power to express in language what he observes and reacts to." -Lawrence Clark Powell
As a writer, I often sit around and marvel at the things that give me inspiration. It's almost like a special power or gift that allows you to take note of an ordinary, run-of-the-mill incident and be able to discern the deeper meaning behind it.
Example #1: One Saturday morning as I lounged on my bed multi-tasking (watching TV, reading, napping, browsing the net, returning phone calls), I looked over at the wall in my bedroom. Right above the base board were a few unsightly black marks that commonly occur when you haven't repainted a new home and something brushes against it. I was so irritated by that and just kept staring at it. As I stared, I identified the marks as being a line and two small dots. One dot was above the line and the other was below the line and both were centered. It was at that point that I realized that some random object had inadvertently rubbed against the wall to form a division sign.
As I lay on the bed staring at it, I thought about all the division that we encounter everyday and I decided that I was going to write an article emphasizing division in the homes, workplace, and in other various places in our society. The more I thought about it, the more it occurred to me that at that particular time there was some serious division going on in my own house. Talk about the writing on the wall! Then I thought to myself, who thinks about these things????
Example #2: It is required for us to wear a name tag for work. Instead of using the standard lanyard issued, I often had some fancier, more professional looking ones to wear. The one that I had been wearing for the weeks before was cute and stylish, but had one major flaw. I could never get the thing to stay on the side that showed my picture and name. People would often come and compliment me on it while positioning it in the right direction. It was quite annoying. When I got home from work one day, I sat by the computer trying to figure out what I would work on. I glanced to my right and saw the lanyard containing the ID badge. I looked at it and said to myself, "What's the point of wearing the fancy thing if it doesn't really show who I am?" It was then I thought about writing a piece about how our behavior, our actions, and how we carry ourselves as individuals often contradict who we really are on the inside. No matter how fancy we are on the outside, if it doesn't truly reflect who we really are, what's the point? Then I thought about the lanyard symbolizing our lives: All glamour, but not functioning correctly. The possibilities went on, and on, and on. Who does that?
Well, writers do. Writing is a gift. My superpower. It helps me to find meaning in almost anything, and of course, it can also make me overly analytical. If you find a positive message to convey to the world from a different angle, it is worth it.
All rights reserved
Shakera Reid was born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in Miramar, Florida. Her passion in life is counseling and educating youth. Hobbies include traveling, writing and watching movies. Her hope is to encourage others through her writing and to help them in their Christian walk.
CHOOSING A PUBLISHER & MARKETING STRATEGIES
What a wonderful feeling it is to have completed a book! However, that is just the beginning for the author. The first question you may have is, how do I get my book into print? Another question is, how do I know which publishing company should I choose to send my manuscript to? Perhaps you will do as many others do, search the internet for just the right publisher for your book. This is the quickest and easiest way to conduct a search. Nevertheless, there can be unseen problems since there may be conflicting realities between the initial information one receives and what will be actually be done as outlined in the contract. My goal is to help you to discover what steps to take and questions to ask before actually signing a contract with a publisher.
When you find a prospective publisher for your manuscript, there are many aspects of publication that need to be seriously considered. This is especially important to the first-time author, especially when you will be required to pay an up-front fee when the contract is signed. The most crucial aspect of publication is a publisher's marketing strategies. So you should begin your investigation with this most important question in mind: What does the publisher do regarding marketing and what is expect of you in the marketing area.
The first and basic step one should take is exploring the publisher's website to see what claims they make regarding the publication of a first-time author's work. Among the items you should look for is:
What are the requirements for manuscript submission
Is there a fee connected to publication
What is the author's royalty fee
See if the publisher includes all the editing, cover design, and other steps of the publication process in an author's up-front payment.
Once you find claims to the above items, print them off, read it carefully, and keep it.
The second step a new author should take is to ask the publisher if they have a set of "Most Frequently Asked Questions" along with their response to these questions. Sometimes this is provided on the website; at other times they are sent via email. In either case, print them off, read them carefully, compare this set of data to the first material acquired from the website's claims as mentioned above. Always make sure that the information you gather is in written form: from the website, via email or conventional mail. Do not ask questions via the telephone, this may later be considered "casual conversation" and later stated that only what is in the contract is valid. Print this information and keep it.
In the event that questions and answers are not provided in either of the two above mentioned venues, don't be hesitant to email a set of questions you may have to the proper authority at the publishing house and request that answers be returned via email or conventional mail. Keep it.
In either event, here are a few questions regarding marketing strategies that you may want to ask the publisher or look for on their website:
1. Where does the publisher distribute booksworldwide, just in the United States, Canada, etc.?
2. Does the publisher actively seek out placement centers for their books and physically place books on bookstore and library shelves?
These two questions are vital to the life and sales of your books. Why? Because many first-time authors may confuse distribution with the actual placement of books in retail outlets. Distribution is merely the shipping of books to a person or place. It has nothing what so ever to do with marketing a book. Also don't be confused with such a statement as, "books will be available at all book stores." More often than not this really means that the book can be ordered through a bookstore but is not and will not be physically available in any particular store. This can potentially hurt book sales because people generally don't want to wait and may not order the book.
3. Does the publisher make efforts to send pre-release copies of your book to important reviewers, such as the Library Journal? Many of the big reviewers require this review copy at least three months in advance of the book's release. Most authors are not made aware of this requirement and a crucial opportunity is lost for their book to get in a major nationwide catalogue with a credible review.
4. Will the publisher find other reviewers for you books which can be posted in major websites? Again, many authors are not aware that the publisher requires the author to find any and all reviewers and to find a way to get the review to the public. This can be a daunting task.
5. What promotion will the publisher provide for your book on major websites like Amazon?
6. What type of press release marketing will the publisher do for your book?
7. What is the geographical area will the press releases be made in? Many authors are not aware until well into the marketing phase that these releases are only made with a fifty mile radius of their homeand a fifty mile radius period! All other publicity and marketing avenues and strategies are expected to be the responsibility of the author, both physically and financially. This is nearly impossible for an author to accomplish unless one has a pocketful of cash and nothing else to do in life.
8. If the publisher accepts your manuscript and it gets to the marketing phase, how many authors will your representative be handling while they are working on yours? You may discover at some point that your representative is responsible for six hundred authors. When this is broken down over just one month of four forty hour workdays, the average time that a representative could give one book is less than twenty minutes for the entire month. This fact can be quite shocking when one finally realizes why their book has received minimal and inadequate attention.
9. Finally, and this is vitally important, if you decide to submit a manuscript to a publisher and it is accepted, under no circumstances or promptings from the publisher's agent should an author read, sign, and return a book contract with your payment until you see a contract lawyer!
Please pay close attention to this advice because of several reasons: the material on the website may be misleading and couched in ambiguous terms and language; the material in FAQs can be misleading and couched in ambiguous terms and language. The danger will rise up and bite you because one will undoubtedly read the contract through the veil of information that one has previously received. It must be stated that although a contract looks like it is right up front, it may also be couched in equally ambiguous terms and language. Warning! The bottom line is that the contract will stand regardless of any misconceptions, deceptions, or ambiguities that have been given to an author in previous or will be given in later material or statements.
It is therefore cheaper to spend a few hundred dollars to have a contract lawyer to analyze a contract than to spend thousands with a publisher and consequently suffer months of frustration, hard work, financial layouts, and ultimately, major disappointments. You may find your money is gone with little to show for it!
Ultimately, each author is responsible for the time and effort to search for and research a publishing house. Then the decision is his and his alone to choose a publisher for his manuscript. It is my hope and belief that this article will help any number of new authors in the decision makingto make an informed decision.
Please allow me to leave you with two jewels of wisdom:
A book can contain a lot of valuable information or entertainment to a great many people, but, if no one knows it is on the market, they can't buy it.
Sometimes it is wiser for an author to reject a publisher who wants to accept your manuscript.
May blessings and guidance come your way!
copyright 2009. Ruth Baker is author of Knock, Knock: Shedding light on Jehovah's Witness at the door, copyright 2007. http://www.livingproofofhope.net
When you find a prospective publisher for your manuscript, there are many aspects of publication that need to be seriously considered. This is especially important to the first-time author, especially when you will be required to pay an up-front fee when the contract is signed. The most crucial aspect of publication is a publisher's marketing strategies. So you should begin your investigation with this most important question in mind: What does the publisher do regarding marketing and what is expect of you in the marketing area.
The first and basic step one should take is exploring the publisher's website to see what claims they make regarding the publication of a first-time author's work. Among the items you should look for is:
What are the requirements for manuscript submission
Is there a fee connected to publication
What is the author's royalty fee
See if the publisher includes all the editing, cover design, and other steps of the publication process in an author's up-front payment.
Once you find claims to the above items, print them off, read it carefully, and keep it.
The second step a new author should take is to ask the publisher if they have a set of "Most Frequently Asked Questions" along with their response to these questions. Sometimes this is provided on the website; at other times they are sent via email. In either case, print them off, read them carefully, compare this set of data to the first material acquired from the website's claims as mentioned above. Always make sure that the information you gather is in written form: from the website, via email or conventional mail. Do not ask questions via the telephone, this may later be considered "casual conversation" and later stated that only what is in the contract is valid. Print this information and keep it.
In the event that questions and answers are not provided in either of the two above mentioned venues, don't be hesitant to email a set of questions you may have to the proper authority at the publishing house and request that answers be returned via email or conventional mail. Keep it.
In either event, here are a few questions regarding marketing strategies that you may want to ask the publisher or look for on their website:
1. Where does the publisher distribute booksworldwide, just in the United States, Canada, etc.?
2. Does the publisher actively seek out placement centers for their books and physically place books on bookstore and library shelves?
These two questions are vital to the life and sales of your books. Why? Because many first-time authors may confuse distribution with the actual placement of books in retail outlets. Distribution is merely the shipping of books to a person or place. It has nothing what so ever to do with marketing a book. Also don't be confused with such a statement as, "books will be available at all book stores." More often than not this really means that the book can be ordered through a bookstore but is not and will not be physically available in any particular store. This can potentially hurt book sales because people generally don't want to wait and may not order the book.
3. Does the publisher make efforts to send pre-release copies of your book to important reviewers, such as the Library Journal? Many of the big reviewers require this review copy at least three months in advance of the book's release. Most authors are not made aware of this requirement and a crucial opportunity is lost for their book to get in a major nationwide catalogue with a credible review.
4. Will the publisher find other reviewers for you books which can be posted in major websites? Again, many authors are not aware that the publisher requires the author to find any and all reviewers and to find a way to get the review to the public. This can be a daunting task.
5. What promotion will the publisher provide for your book on major websites like Amazon?
6. What type of press release marketing will the publisher do for your book?
7. What is the geographical area will the press releases be made in? Many authors are not aware until well into the marketing phase that these releases are only made with a fifty mile radius of their homeand a fifty mile radius period! All other publicity and marketing avenues and strategies are expected to be the responsibility of the author, both physically and financially. This is nearly impossible for an author to accomplish unless one has a pocketful of cash and nothing else to do in life.
8. If the publisher accepts your manuscript and it gets to the marketing phase, how many authors will your representative be handling while they are working on yours? You may discover at some point that your representative is responsible for six hundred authors. When this is broken down over just one month of four forty hour workdays, the average time that a representative could give one book is less than twenty minutes for the entire month. This fact can be quite shocking when one finally realizes why their book has received minimal and inadequate attention.
9. Finally, and this is vitally important, if you decide to submit a manuscript to a publisher and it is accepted, under no circumstances or promptings from the publisher's agent should an author read, sign, and return a book contract with your payment until you see a contract lawyer!
Please pay close attention to this advice because of several reasons: the material on the website may be misleading and couched in ambiguous terms and language; the material in FAQs can be misleading and couched in ambiguous terms and language. The danger will rise up and bite you because one will undoubtedly read the contract through the veil of information that one has previously received. It must be stated that although a contract looks like it is right up front, it may also be couched in equally ambiguous terms and language. Warning! The bottom line is that the contract will stand regardless of any misconceptions, deceptions, or ambiguities that have been given to an author in previous or will be given in later material or statements.
It is therefore cheaper to spend a few hundred dollars to have a contract lawyer to analyze a contract than to spend thousands with a publisher and consequently suffer months of frustration, hard work, financial layouts, and ultimately, major disappointments. You may find your money is gone with little to show for it!
Ultimately, each author is responsible for the time and effort to search for and research a publishing house. Then the decision is his and his alone to choose a publisher for his manuscript. It is my hope and belief that this article will help any number of new authors in the decision makingto make an informed decision.
Please allow me to leave you with two jewels of wisdom:
A book can contain a lot of valuable information or entertainment to a great many people, but, if no one knows it is on the market, they can't buy it.
Sometimes it is wiser for an author to reject a publisher who wants to accept your manuscript.
May blessings and guidance come your way!
copyright 2009. Ruth Baker is author of Knock, Knock: Shedding light on Jehovah's Witness at the door, copyright 2007. http://www.livingproofofhope.net
Why I Don't Care What You Think of My Writing*
*And why that should be great news for you
What I'm about to tell you will change your writing career. Most writers secretly hope their work might be good enough to be published, and maybe even to become a best seller. Most writers tentatively share excerpts with fellow writers hoping their dreams of glory will be affirmed, secretly fearing they will not.
Not me.
In 2005, I published The Gift of Transformation. For readers, this book was a life changer. Again and again, readers tracked me down to tell me how the book altered their paradigms and opened the door for them to experience the love of God. One Christian ministry made the book required reading for its clients. When they did, they called me up and said things like: "I feel like I've known you all my life," and "Everyone should read this book."
Recently, just for the fun of it, I posted the book on a site trolled by editors, writers and wannabes. Within hours I had my first two comments. One person liked the book. The other person hated it.
Do I care?
Not one bit. Does it hurt my feelings that one reader hated it? No. Does it make my day that the other reader liked it? Nope.
Understand that it wasn't always like this. Years ago, I took my stories to writers' groups, and tentatively unwrapped my babies and read them aloud. I clung to every word of praise, while every criticism stung.
What changed?
For one, I became a professional writer. I started by writing resumes for clients. How do you tell if a resume is good? Simple it gets you the job you want. If it doesn't get you the job, I don't care who wrote it, it isn't any good to you. The resumes I wrote started getting people jobs. One person sent out 75 of his own resumes and got nowhere. He sent out one of mine, got the interview and got the job. Someone else was hired sight unseen out of state because of one of my resumes. Stories like these started piling in from my clients. After trial and error (and prayer), I figured out why my resumes worked, and why other resumes didn't. I created a system and I stuck with it.
It didn't take long before my resume writing ability got a reputation. People who were in a position to know told me that I was the best resume writer in our county of 400,000 people.
When you write for clients you discover that every client is different. The work one client loves the next client hates. I wrote smart, powerful resumes for everyone. Most clients loved my work, but some picked it apart. Because the client paid the bill, I often needed to make changes that weakened the resume. But, in the process, I learned to take my clients' criticisms with a grain of salt. Most of the time, they had no idea what they were talking about.
But sometimes they did. Sometimes they gave me ideas and suggestions that I still use today.
Writing for thousands of clients taught me to approach criticism in a professional manner. Today I write books for clients. In the process of writing a book, there are always revisions. I don't take any of those revisions personally. I wrote it one way; they want it a different way. Sometimes the revisions are not in my client's best interests, and I tell them so. But, ultimately, the client pays the bill, so I write it the way he wants it written.
Writing, more than any other endeavor, forces you to squeeze your soul through the keyboard and leave it on fragile piece of paper that anyone can rip to shreds. To be successful in this business and it is a business we must get our affirmation from Someone other than our readers and our critics. For me, that affirmation comes from Above. I've taken that stinging criticism to Him and learned the freeing truth: He likes me. I'm OK.
Does all of this mean that I don't listen to criticism and critique? Of course not. I'm meeting with a young copywriter tomorrow morning. I've asked him to go over an online sales letter I wrote. I know he will offer great suggestions, and I'm looking forward to hearing them. But, at the same time, I'm secure enough in my career to know that even if he hates what I wrote, I'm still a good writer. I'm a professional. I earn my pay. I deserve to be in print.
And here's my advice to you: Study your craft. Get good at it. Listen to suggestions. But don't take criticisms or praise too seriously.
Dwight Clough
Author / Ghostwriter / Author's Coach
EmpowerGood.com/yourbook
How to write and publish your first book
This article may be freely reprinted if the above information and web address remain intact.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
What I'm about to tell you will change your writing career. Most writers secretly hope their work might be good enough to be published, and maybe even to become a best seller. Most writers tentatively share excerpts with fellow writers hoping their dreams of glory will be affirmed, secretly fearing they will not.
Not me.
In 2005, I published The Gift of Transformation. For readers, this book was a life changer. Again and again, readers tracked me down to tell me how the book altered their paradigms and opened the door for them to experience the love of God. One Christian ministry made the book required reading for its clients. When they did, they called me up and said things like: "I feel like I've known you all my life," and "Everyone should read this book."
Recently, just for the fun of it, I posted the book on a site trolled by editors, writers and wannabes. Within hours I had my first two comments. One person liked the book. The other person hated it.
Do I care?
Not one bit. Does it hurt my feelings that one reader hated it? No. Does it make my day that the other reader liked it? Nope.
Understand that it wasn't always like this. Years ago, I took my stories to writers' groups, and tentatively unwrapped my babies and read them aloud. I clung to every word of praise, while every criticism stung.
What changed?
For one, I became a professional writer. I started by writing resumes for clients. How do you tell if a resume is good? Simple it gets you the job you want. If it doesn't get you the job, I don't care who wrote it, it isn't any good to you. The resumes I wrote started getting people jobs. One person sent out 75 of his own resumes and got nowhere. He sent out one of mine, got the interview and got the job. Someone else was hired sight unseen out of state because of one of my resumes. Stories like these started piling in from my clients. After trial and error (and prayer), I figured out why my resumes worked, and why other resumes didn't. I created a system and I stuck with it.
It didn't take long before my resume writing ability got a reputation. People who were in a position to know told me that I was the best resume writer in our county of 400,000 people.
When you write for clients you discover that every client is different. The work one client loves the next client hates. I wrote smart, powerful resumes for everyone. Most clients loved my work, but some picked it apart. Because the client paid the bill, I often needed to make changes that weakened the resume. But, in the process, I learned to take my clients' criticisms with a grain of salt. Most of the time, they had no idea what they were talking about.
But sometimes they did. Sometimes they gave me ideas and suggestions that I still use today.
Writing for thousands of clients taught me to approach criticism in a professional manner. Today I write books for clients. In the process of writing a book, there are always revisions. I don't take any of those revisions personally. I wrote it one way; they want it a different way. Sometimes the revisions are not in my client's best interests, and I tell them so. But, ultimately, the client pays the bill, so I write it the way he wants it written.
Writing, more than any other endeavor, forces you to squeeze your soul through the keyboard and leave it on fragile piece of paper that anyone can rip to shreds. To be successful in this business and it is a business we must get our affirmation from Someone other than our readers and our critics. For me, that affirmation comes from Above. I've taken that stinging criticism to Him and learned the freeing truth: He likes me. I'm OK.
Does all of this mean that I don't listen to criticism and critique? Of course not. I'm meeting with a young copywriter tomorrow morning. I've asked him to go over an online sales letter I wrote. I know he will offer great suggestions, and I'm looking forward to hearing them. But, at the same time, I'm secure enough in my career to know that even if he hates what I wrote, I'm still a good writer. I'm a professional. I earn my pay. I deserve to be in print.
And here's my advice to you: Study your craft. Get good at it. Listen to suggestions. But don't take criticisms or praise too seriously.
Dwight Clough
Author / Ghostwriter / Author's Coach
EmpowerGood.com/yourbook
How to write and publish your first book
This article may be freely reprinted if the above information and web address remain intact.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Three Ingredients to Writing Well by Bob Valleau
Over the years, I have found three ingredients that have helped me to write well. They are an integral part of my writing routine. Perhaps you can incorporate them, too.
1. Time. I do my best, and most, writing in the wee hours of the morning, when all is quiet. I know one writer who does her best writing at night while shut inside her big bedroom closet, sitting on the floor with her laptop. Try to choose a time of day, or night, when you feel you can produce your best.
2. Prayer. Before you place pen to paper or fingertip to keyboard -- pray. Pray that God shows you the direction, tone and focus of your writing endeavor. Consider your audience (who you are writing to) and your topic (what you are writing about).
3. Solitude. I treasure silence. I need to be alone, and left alone, when I write. It helps me to concentrate on my train of thought and feelings. When you apply this ingredient, eliminate any distractions that would interfere with your ability to think.
If you've been struggling to write better, pick a time when you can quiet yourself and seek God's help. After following this routine, you'll notice your writing will gradually improve, and you'll reap the benefits of writing something worthwhile.
Copyright 2010 by Bob Valleau. Bob has over 20 years of writing experience for the Christian market. He was once named Christian Writer of the Year by the American Christian Writers Association. Currently, he freelances and lives in Texas.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
1. Time. I do my best, and most, writing in the wee hours of the morning, when all is quiet. I know one writer who does her best writing at night while shut inside her big bedroom closet, sitting on the floor with her laptop. Try to choose a time of day, or night, when you feel you can produce your best.
2. Prayer. Before you place pen to paper or fingertip to keyboard -- pray. Pray that God shows you the direction, tone and focus of your writing endeavor. Consider your audience (who you are writing to) and your topic (what you are writing about).
3. Solitude. I treasure silence. I need to be alone, and left alone, when I write. It helps me to concentrate on my train of thought and feelings. When you apply this ingredient, eliminate any distractions that would interfere with your ability to think.
If you've been struggling to write better, pick a time when you can quiet yourself and seek God's help. After following this routine, you'll notice your writing will gradually improve, and you'll reap the benefits of writing something worthwhile.
Copyright 2010 by Bob Valleau. Bob has over 20 years of writing experience for the Christian market. He was once named Christian Writer of the Year by the American Christian Writers Association. Currently, he freelances and lives in Texas.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
What makes Christian fiction Christian?
If I had to sum it up in one word, I'd use "relationship." The major difference in a secular romance and an inspirational one really is that simple: the emotional connection (relationship) between the hero and heroine, and between the characters and God.
Aside from the stringent expectation of quality writing, certain additional standards exist in the world of Christian fiction. A writer hoping to place a manuscript in this market would do well to become familiar with those finely drawn lines and stay well within their borders.
I can point out the right direction. You'll have to choose the roads.
1. The sensuality meter
I was once challenged by a reader who felt the words "Christian" and "romance" conflicted.
"You cannot write about romance and call it a Christian book," he stated. "Christians don't partake in romance, at least not until after they're married. And no one wants to read about that stuff between a husband and wife. What's the point?"
How sad, this inability to distinguish between sex and romance!
Let me try to make it easy.
Romance is the wooing of another's heart and the emotions involved in that courtship.
Sex is the physical consummation of a physical attraction (no relationship necessary).
In a Christian romance, sex is off limits for the unmarried hero/heroine, and takes place behind closed doors for married ones. What's left? Relationship.
That said, eliminating blatant sexual activity is not the be-all and end-all of an inspirational novel. What is important is the interweaving of the characters' spiritual journeys into their livesand that includes their romantic overtures.
Physical attraction should be a part of the story, but it will be communicated through emotions instead of hormones. He may notice the way the heroine's dress accentuates her curves, but he won't focus on those curves. He'll be drawn to her sense of humor, her generosity, her sweetness of spirit. Neither is she blind to how he looks in those hip-hugging jeans, or the way his muscles bulge when he ropes that heifer! But her emotional reactions will supersede any physical ones. She'll be moved by his gentleness with an injured animaltouched by the respectful way he handles an annoying elderly neighbormoved to tears by his love for children.
2. Christian protagonists
A Christian romance will focus on two relationships: the one developing between the hero and heroine, and the one between those characters and Christ. The latter must be clearly defined, either from the start of the story, or by the end of it.
Placing characters inside a church building on Sunday mornings, or having them say grace before a meal does not make a novel inspirational. It is acceptable to start a book with a protagonist who doesn't know or is estranged from God, but that spiritual rapport will grow and evolve throughout the storyline and must be reconciled by the last page.
3. Dealing with sin
In real life, Christian people live with and among non-Christians. So it is in the pages of a book. Contributing characters may smoke or drink, get pregnant before marriage, have abortions, cheat, steal, lieeven murder. That's life. These characters' non-conformity to a godly lifestyle adds color to the storyline.
It is crucial, however, that the main characters either stay on the straight path or find it.
4. Preaching
Ultimate challenge: Do all of the above without turning the story into a sermon. Readers read for entertainment and escape. Any message the author wishes to deliver must be woven seamlessly into the storyline. The reader should not be aware of any spiritual lessonuntil it's already learned.
What makes Christian fiction Christian? The differences aren't many, but mighty. I like to think of it as giving my readers a touch of Heaven in an earthly tale.
That's why I write on this side of the line.
Delia Latham writes inspirational fiction. (Goldeneyes, March 2008, Vintage Romance Publishing). She lives in Oklahoma with her husband, Johnny. Visit her website (http://www.delialatham.net), newsletter (http://bookshelfnewsletter.blogspot.com), or review site (http://my-book-bag.blogspot.com).
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
If I had to sum it up in one word, I'd use "relationship." The major difference in a secular romance and an inspirational one really is that simple: the emotional connection (relationship) between the hero and heroine, and between the characters and God.
Aside from the stringent expectation of quality writing, certain additional standards exist in the world of Christian fiction. A writer hoping to place a manuscript in this market would do well to become familiar with those finely drawn lines and stay well within their borders.
I can point out the right direction. You'll have to choose the roads.
1. The sensuality meter
I was once challenged by a reader who felt the words "Christian" and "romance" conflicted.
"You cannot write about romance and call it a Christian book," he stated. "Christians don't partake in romance, at least not until after they're married. And no one wants to read about that stuff between a husband and wife. What's the point?"
How sad, this inability to distinguish between sex and romance!
Let me try to make it easy.
Romance is the wooing of another's heart and the emotions involved in that courtship.
Sex is the physical consummation of a physical attraction (no relationship necessary).
In a Christian romance, sex is off limits for the unmarried hero/heroine, and takes place behind closed doors for married ones. What's left? Relationship.
That said, eliminating blatant sexual activity is not the be-all and end-all of an inspirational novel. What is important is the interweaving of the characters' spiritual journeys into their livesand that includes their romantic overtures.
Physical attraction should be a part of the story, but it will be communicated through emotions instead of hormones. He may notice the way the heroine's dress accentuates her curves, but he won't focus on those curves. He'll be drawn to her sense of humor, her generosity, her sweetness of spirit. Neither is she blind to how he looks in those hip-hugging jeans, or the way his muscles bulge when he ropes that heifer! But her emotional reactions will supersede any physical ones. She'll be moved by his gentleness with an injured animaltouched by the respectful way he handles an annoying elderly neighbormoved to tears by his love for children.
2. Christian protagonists
A Christian romance will focus on two relationships: the one developing between the hero and heroine, and the one between those characters and Christ. The latter must be clearly defined, either from the start of the story, or by the end of it.
Placing characters inside a church building on Sunday mornings, or having them say grace before a meal does not make a novel inspirational. It is acceptable to start a book with a protagonist who doesn't know or is estranged from God, but that spiritual rapport will grow and evolve throughout the storyline and must be reconciled by the last page.
3. Dealing with sin
In real life, Christian people live with and among non-Christians. So it is in the pages of a book. Contributing characters may smoke or drink, get pregnant before marriage, have abortions, cheat, steal, lieeven murder. That's life. These characters' non-conformity to a godly lifestyle adds color to the storyline.
It is crucial, however, that the main characters either stay on the straight path or find it.
4. Preaching
Ultimate challenge: Do all of the above without turning the story into a sermon. Readers read for entertainment and escape. Any message the author wishes to deliver must be woven seamlessly into the storyline. The reader should not be aware of any spiritual lessonuntil it's already learned.
What makes Christian fiction Christian? The differences aren't many, but mighty. I like to think of it as giving my readers a touch of Heaven in an earthly tale.
That's why I write on this side of the line.
Delia Latham writes inspirational fiction. (Goldeneyes, March 2008, Vintage Romance Publishing). She lives in Oklahoma with her husband, Johnny. Visit her website (http://www.delialatham.net), newsletter (http://bookshelfnewsletter.blogspot.com), or review site (http://my-book-bag.blogspot.com).
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Dear Author...
My life as an aspiring author!
*Ring*
My wife was on the phone. "Hi, honey. You got a couple letters today."
"Can you tell if they're self-addressed?"
"Two of them are, but one is from XYZ Publishing, it's a very fat envelope. It might be good news!! That's why I called."
Grrrr! "Probably not. It probably just means they're returning my Proposal and sample chapters."
"Oh, Sorry."
"I can't swear to it, but I bet if they wanted to represent me, they'd call. I'll be home in a little bit."
Sure enough, I got home and opened the envelope. Nothing but my own stuff back. A big red "NO" written across the first page.
It's hard to take this rejection day after day. What do they want? I followed their guidelines to the letter, and they can't even take the time to include a note? I thought this was the perfect publisher for my book.
I know they're all busy. Agents reading queries, proposals, partials and fulls. Then they have to present the project to their editorial staff or other agents so that the whole group can weigh in. I know they're busy, these publishers. But, doggone it, so am I! I re-wrote my proposal to fit their list of criteria, included a bunch of junk like a marketing plan and bio as if they even care. They don't want a bio unless I have a bunch of letters after my name. It also helps if I can find all the buyers for them, so they can tell a publisher they won't even have to do any work to get my book noticed in the marketplace. Why does it feel like I do all this work, only for someone else to wield the real power?
Grrr!!
Writing, revising, editing, polishing. For what? For some intern to mark a big "NO" on my proposal?
I walked over to the drawer and added the envelope to the pile. It kept growing, form letters that wished me "the best of luck in seeking publication elsewhere" to the stupid little postcard that was addressed "Dear Author." Grrr!!! Why, if they insist that I send a personalized query letter, can they dismiss me with a "Dear Author" postcard?
I switched back and forth daily, are they busy or just arrogant?
I walked over to my laptop and signed on to check my email. Another "thanks, but no thanks" email. I moved it into the "Book Rejections" folder, then searched the "Query Submissions" folder to find the matching query email and moved it there too. One less outstanding query to hold out hope. At least my email folders were organized.
I scrolled my mouse pointer to the "MS Req and Sent" folder and looked at the one, lonely email. An agent requested my full manuscript within 24 hours of my sending her the query. I sent it off and now, here we are, three and one-half months later, no word. Grrr!!!! The forum that I follow says it's appropriate to "nudge" at the 90-day mark. So, I did. I sent a nice little email asking the agent to confirm receipt of the manuscript and perhaps offer a little insight. That was 27 days ago. Nothing but silence.
I went back to the forum and asked the question, "What now?"
I got 15 replies each with one common thread "wait."
Grrr!!!!!
Then I got a 'Private Message" from one of the moderators. "Have you started a new project?" she wrote.
"Yes, but I can't concentrate. I thought I'd try a suspense novel, it's moving along."
"Just keep writing," she told me, "it's important to force yourself to move forward."
"Ha!" I thought. "Whatever you say."
I opened the suspense draft on my laptop and entered the scene with my characters. I really liked how it was coming together. But I worried about running out of ideas for later chapters. I had only completed the spiritual nonfiction manuscript so far, and was completely unsure of myself in fiction. What if it was no good at all? It takes a long time to write 80,000 words good or bad.
Grrr!!!!!!
I clicked the 'open' button and looked for the nonfiction manuscript. As I re-read it I remembered how much my heart was touched by the Scriptures when I placed the words on the pages.
It is a good book. Let God handle the heavy lifting.
Back to suspense 66,000 more words.
I sighed and continued writing.
Michael Joshua has an active blog where he posts notes to his followers, flash fiction and book reviews for Thomas Nelson Publishers.
http://myinspirationalsayings.blogspot.com - My Blog
mljoshua55 @ gmail.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
I've spent a week looking for places to put my writings, to no avail! I have come to the conclusion I will write here and if no one ever sees my articles, then at least I will have the pleasure of putting all my thoughts on "paper."
I am going to start posting a chapter a day of my story! You will have to visit often to keep up with the plot!
Also, I plan to add various sections to my blog for different types of writing, such as "Stories" "Devotions" "Help for new writers" and others. Got an idea? Please let me know!
My first section should be "How to avoid gerunds, infinitives, and participles!
I am going to start posting a chapter a day of my story! You will have to visit often to keep up with the plot!
Also, I plan to add various sections to my blog for different types of writing, such as "Stories" "Devotions" "Help for new writers" and others. Got an idea? Please let me know!
My first section should be "How to avoid gerunds, infinitives, and participles!
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