I’ve been a writer-for-hire for years, and only recently have I been asked if I do dummy proof editing.I first had to look up what it was before responding. However, not knowing about it is a clear indicator that I haven’t done it. The thing is that I do a lot of research on a…
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Book Editing vs. Proofreading: Understanding the Key Differences
When preparing a book for publication, whether submitting it to publishers or agents or self-publishing, both editing and proofreading are crucial steps in the process. However, they serve distinct purposes and involve different skill sets. Understanding the differences between editing and proofreading can help writers decide which process their manuscript needs before sending it out…
Young Children’s Books: The Power of Repetition
Repetition is one of the most powerful tools in children’s literature. It plays a crucial role in helping young readers develop language skills, build confidence, and engage with stories in meaningful ways. Whether the repetition appears in rhymes, phrases, or predictable structures, it provides children with a sense of familiarity and enjoyment that supports their…
How to Write a Children’s Bedtime Story: Structure and Guidelines
A bedtime story is a traditional form of storytelling. It’s more than just a tale—it’s used to bring a child on a gentle journey that engages while soothing the child into a peaceful sleep. Crafting an effective bedtime story requires a balance of imagination, simplicity, and comfort. Although the primary goal of a bedtime story…
Authors and Writing Scams
The landscape of literature is ever-evolving, and now authors not only have to deal with the challenges of creativity but also the treacherous waters of theft by deception. Reports of another sophisticated scam targeting authors surface every year, possibly several times a year if not more. These scammers prey on writers’ aspirations, vulnerabilities, and fears.I’ve…
Transitional Words: How to Use Them and Examples
Transitional words are the glue that holds a story together. They guide readers smoothly from one idea to the next, maintaining clarity, pacing, and emotional impact. In fiction writing, transitional words and phrases help convey shifts in time, space, mood, and logic. Whether writing a novel or a picture book, mastering transitions boosts readability and…
Using Big Words in MG and YA: Good Idea?
Writers often fall into the trap of thinking that using big, complex words will make their writing sound more sophisticated. Or the author may be highly intelligent, say a professor of political science or road scholar, and using big words comes naturally.However, when it comes to middle grade (MG) and young adult (YA) stories, this…
Crafting Scenes: 7 Must-Know Elements
Many elements are needed to craft a compelling story scene. There is a clearly defined purpose, specific setting, conflict introduction, and character development. And like the story arc, each scene must move forward with a clear beginning, middle, and end.SCENE ELEMENTS BREAKDOWN1. The scene’s purpose:Whether you’re an outliner or a pantser, you must know what…
Turn That Idea Into a Children’s Story
So, you have an idea for a children’s story. You’ve been mulling it over for a long while, and now it’s time to do something about it.But what do you do?How can you take an idea, or even a spark of an idea, and create a children’s story?To start, writing a full-fledged story from an…
Get to Know Your Children’s Story Characters
Creating memorable characters that help immerse the reader into the story is the heart of a great children’s story. Whether it’s a mischievous rabbit, a curious child, or a brave middle-grader, understanding your characters and knowing them inside and out will make them relatable and engaging. Here are six tips to help you get to…