Traveling together from origination to completion of your first manuscripts.. Professional resources, fellowship programs, and support in a safe space.
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Who are you as A writer?
One of the more overlooked questions for any author is WHO ARE YOU?
It is just as important to ask and answer this question before you pen one word of the manuscript that will change lives!
Take this quick quiz to find who you REALLY are!
!. I love making new worlds and imagining the future.
2, I am breathless when thinking about the romantic side of life!
3. I love drawing cartoons and working with graphics!
4. I have fun characters running through my head that need no explanation on the page
5. When I read, I read the new young adult releases!
6. My favorite memories are the books I read in 6th grade!
7. I have valuable life experience to share with readers
8. My mind is preoccupied with dragons, princesses and magic!
Drop me a line and let me know which number most closely represents your inner writer!
Your Tretorous Writing Journey
Writing can sometimes be a rocky endeavor.
You are told to sit down at your desk everyday, but then find you don't have the energy to attempt to write..
OR when not sitting down to write, guilt and ideas fly fast and furious!
What is a creative to do?
1. Give yourself some grace. Honesty is the best policy when dealing with yourself. Set your writing schedule accordingly..
2. As you write, do not try to edit. Get it down messy. Play in the sandbox!
3. If you are a member of a critique group, the inclination is to share what you have written from week to week.
Before you do this, know your critique group. If they are centered on which word you are using, or something other than plot during your first draft, don't share.
Trust me when I say too much will be changed in edits to worry about a singular word.
If there is some laser-focusesd advice you need, ask for it, such as; Do you have too many characters? Does your point of view seem correct for the story you are writing? Is it moving fast enough?
Then share and ask for that piece of advice.
4. If you are mired in the messy middle and you don't know how to get unstuck, ask yourself if a book coach could help.
Find a coaching package tailored to fit your needs - long-term, or short term - find a coach that seems in line with the genre of your project.
4. Keep your eye on the prize. As little as 10 or 15 minutes per day will complete your book in no time at all!
Please reach out if you are in need of advice or a coach. I am here to help.
My specialty is beginning kid-lit authors. You do not even have to have a draft started. We can work on prompts and finding ideas together!
I will also connect you to other writers, mired in the mud you find yourself in. Together, we are stronger!
Go Further With Support
What does support look like to you?
Honestly, there is just about a million ways to feel supported in this writing life.
Your spouse can support you as you either work two jobs, once not bringing in much cash.
Your critique group can support you and give you encouragement from the writing perspective.
Your family can respect the boundaries you have set for your writing time.
It all counts and is not only desireable, but also needed if you are to succeed. We writers tend to spend far too much time bottled up alone n our writing space.
Shoot, even the cat or dog that wonders in to get between you and your monitor is granting their silent support!
There are other forms of support though. The question is: is it necessary to pay for a higher level of support?
To make it clear as mud - it depends. With what type of support do you flourish ?
I would say if you are just beginning your writing journey, a book coach that specializes in beginnings - of books, or of writing careers - could be a great assistance. Even if for a few months, your first steps could be clarified and set on the right path.
As you move through your work, a developmental editor may be of assistance.
How do you know if you need a book coach?
According to BOOK RIOT you need a book coach if:
"You’ve got a great idea for a book, you read copiously, and you’re a pretty talented writer (if you say so yourself). You’ve read On Writing by Stephen King and The Writing Life by Annie Dillard and you’re acquainted with copious theories on plot and pacing and characterisation, but you just can’t seem to get that New York Times bestselling book from your head to paper."
A book coach can help move you through the tough first draft to the editing phase.
If you're struggling - and have been for a while, contact me and set up a FREE 30 minute call to see if a book coach is someone who might be helpful.
If I cannot help you in your progress, I can recommend someone who might be right for you!
WHAT MY READERS SAY
Simply Writing Fellowship has been a great resource for authors like myself. It has given me valuable advice and support to move forward on my writing journey.
I found Simply Writing Fellowship to be an invaluable resource. It has helped me to find confidence in my creative writings and progress from the first draft to completion.
from THE BLOG
A Guide to Developing Stories
This guide covers the basics of story development, from the initial idea to the finished product. Learn how to create compelling stories that will engage your readers.
Editing Tips for Kid-Lit Writers
Editing isn't just about catching typos. Use these tips to make your writing stand out. Discover ways to perfect your work, generate new ideas, and create stories readers love.
The Benefits of Joining a Fellowship
Gain valuable feedback and knowledge from experienced authors. Take advantage of the community and resources Simply Writing Fellowship provides, to empower you on your writing journey.
Simply Writing Fellowship
We offer comprehensive writing resources to support aspiring authors. Join our fellowship and unlock tools to help develop your writing. Improve your skills with our support programs and community.
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Popular Articles
Planning for Success
Take the first step by developing an effective plan for your story. The right foundation can set you up for success with your writing dreams. Learn tips for planning and creating your story outline.
How to Market Your Book
How do you reach readers? Get strategies for marketing your book to its target audience. No matter your budget, there are creative ways to promote your work and find success.
3 Ways to Handle Rejection
Don't give up after a setback. Take resilience-building steps to get past rejection. Get strategies for moving forward with your work and continue writing despite any criticism.
Storytelling Tips for Beginners
Learn the basics of writing for children. Get familiar with the common elements of children’s writing, understand your audience, and refine your structure. With these tips, you’ll be ready to start writing!
The Craft of Writing Dialogue
Dialogue is essential for kid-lit. Get tips for crafting realistic and engaging dialogue for your story. Learn ways to create characters that come alive through dialogue, for a unique and captivating novel.
Creating Believable Characters
Bring your characters to life and create an immersive story. Use these tips to make your characters believable and engaging. Discover how to develop consistent flaws and strengths to keep readers invested.
Building a Successful Writing Schedule
Writing requires discipline. Learn how to create and stick to a productive schedule. Get strategies for staying motivated and meeting deadlines - from the first draft to the finished product.
The Benefits of Critique Groups
Constructive feedback is essential for becoming a better writer. Get tips for finding and joining a critique group. Gather valuable feedback from professionals and peers, and make your work the best it can be!