As a following-up on my earlier post on revising your beginning, let’s talk about forcing a book. Forced: when a book no longer feels organic to the author’s voice or original intent. Forcing a book happens when either: (1.) You make any and all changes suggested by any person who comments or (2.) You are […]
analysis: starting your story in the right place
Lowry, Lois. The Giver. New York: Random House, 1993. Warning: This analysis may contain spoilers. I take an in-depth look at what makes this book work and why. And it may only be helpful if you’ve actually read the book. However, continue reading at your own risk. For more information on the Friday Analysis, go […]
contest: 15 words or less – can you do it?
So in honor of all the fun book releases this month (including A Conspiracy of Kings by Megan Whalen Turner–I will be posting my interview with her TOMORROW, March 23) AND my recently finished revision of The Elect, I’m going to host a contest. I want you to all finish your own novels. . . […]
the analysis: find out what works and why
One of the best concepts I learned was to analyze published books: look at the book critically and see what works and why it works. Also take note of what doesn’t work, and think about what could have been done to make it work. [example: if you found the end of a book predictable, why […]
the draft is done
The computer clock read 10:54 and 32 seconds when the soldier came into my exercise class. I remember the exact time because I only had one minute and 54 seconds left to hack into the Military’s website before the Intelligence Unit would be all over my case. Thus begins my work in progress. Which, can […]
Chersti Nieveen 