Every writer has their favorite writing tools. One of the most important of mine: my Hilroy notebook. I’ve used a lot of different notebooks over the years, but these days I stick with my 5-subject 8″x5″ Hilroys. They’re small enough … Continue reading
Ways in which writing a sequel is easier than writing a standalone/first book: -I already know the characters (well, the ones that are returning; there are new ones too) and generally what they want and how they will act in … Continue reading
In your experience (and from the people you know), how much work goes into into a manuscript after you’ve signed with an agent and before the work is ready to submit to publishers? And what is that process like? This … Continue reading
Florida was amazing! I returned to the cold and snow late Monday night, and I miss it and the people there very much. Wednesday and Thursday nights, I did my presentations along with ghost storyteller Monica Ladd and the Gold … Continue reading
I wanted to share a kissing scene from one of my books for Valentine’s day, but I found myself with a dilemma. There is no romance in Give Up the Ghost. And to reveal any kisses from The Way We … Continue reading
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you? I know this without even thinking it over: Beginning. In a couple of different ways. On the small scale, the first few chapters of any book are the ones … Continue reading
I just finished one of the many responsibilities authors have that aren’t writing: copyedits. Specifically, copyedits on The Way We Fall. Copyedits is a sort of mysterious step in the publishing process that occurs between the author finishing revisions with … Continue reading
This past weekend I had the privilege of going to Kindling Words East, a writerly get-together that’s part workshop, part retreat, and part party. 🙂 Basically, about 75 published children’s and YA authors, illustrators, and editors descend on a hotel/spa … Continue reading
(Based on spending the last three days in a group of children’s authors, illustrators, and editors) 1. The writing process. Different writers work in so many different ways, and I think we are endlessly fascinated by how others write, even … Continue reading
I was asked here a few months back if I could talk about juggling having a day job and writing, and all the extra jobs that can come with being a published author (like marketing one’s books). I’m probably not … Continue reading
