Spring is here, at least by the calendar, and new contest opportunities are popping up all over! It's National Poetry Month so it's no surprise I've found a few great poetry contests in April. Illustrators, note that there is a pitch day being put together just for you on 4/6. Contests are listed by closing date. Some... Continue Reading →
I’ve written about waiting before but I feel like talking about it again today. Maybe it’s because I’m waiting on things… I don’t know. I guess I can’t really say that’s the reason because honestly, as writers and illustrators working toward publication aren’t we always waiting on something? Waiting for the perfect ending for our... Continue Reading →
Oh, we're comin' around the bend, race fans. Today's installment of our series on critiquing considers the actual story. Here's your handy-dandy... PLOT CHECKLIST Problem--Can you define, clearly, what it is? When you read a manuscript, ask "What does the main character want?" If you don't know, that's a bad sign. Once you can identify... Continue Reading →
Have you ever wondered how to query for work-for-hire projects? Today author Jennifer Swanson shares one of her query letters with us. Jennifer has had a lot of success when it comes to work-for-hire commissions. Check out her amazing list of published books on her website! And work-for-hire can lead to other things as you will find... Continue Reading →
So, did you get swept up in the excitement of #Pitmad? It’s hard not to. It’s a fun event with the potential to give you a slight edge up the other submissions in an agent’s inbox. Yup, that's it: a slight edge. While a request on a pitch is a positive thing (and who doesn't... Continue Reading →
*phew* After a month of special guests and interviews and contests and frivolity, it's time to get back to what we're really here to encourage: Today, let's consider how to help your critique partner write realistic, unforgettable characters. CHARACTER CHECKLIST Point of View--Is it consistent? Whether it's first, second (boy, I'd like to see THAT... Continue Reading →
Sub It Club 