Writing fiction and writing nonfiction have some distinct similarities and differences. But, before we get into that, let’s find out the definitions of fiction and nonfiction: Fiction: According to Merriam-Webster.com, fiction is “something invented by the imagination or feigned, specifically an invented story; the action of feigning or of creating with the imagination.” Nonfiction: Merriam-Webster’s…
Tag: writing tips
Writing Fiction for Children – 4 Simple Tips
Writing fiction for children has a number of rules and tricks, the very basics of which are creating believable characters and adding conflict. But, there are many other elements that go into creating an effective and engaging story. Below are four simple tips to help you navigate the children’s writing waters. 1. Show the way…
Writing Fiction for Children – Character Believability and Conflict
Writing in general is a tough craft, although many may not think so. The writer has to take individual words and craft them together to create: interest, suspense, romance, humor, grief, fantasy, other worlds . . . the list goes on and on. And, it must be done with clarity. While there is an abundance…
Learn to Write for Children – 3+ Basic Tools
We all know how difficult it is to break into the business of writing for children. Whether you write fiction or nonfiction, it is a tough business and can be overwhelming for those just starting out. While all writing must adhere to certain guidelines, writing for children has additional principles unique to its genre. To…
The Book Summary – Five Must-Know Components
After your book query, the book summary or description is the most important marketing element. You can think of it as number 2 on the book marketing ladder. Once your book query gets the reader to actually read it, the summary is what will entice the editor or agent to ask for more. If you’re…
Finding Age Appropriate Words when Writing for Children
Writing in general can be a tough business; writing for children is even tougher. Writing for children has its own unique tricks, processes, and rules; one of those rules is using words that are age appropriate. How this differs from writing in general is that the children’s writing arena is divided into specific age groups….
Ingredients for the Perfect Picture Book
Writing for young children can be tricky. It’s not as straight forward as writing for adults. You can’t use your own vocabulary and need to be careful of age-appropriate story lines. You also need to introduce your main character immediately. It’s also important to keep in mind that children don’t have the same comprehension level…
What Makes a Good Fiction Story? Plot Driven vs. Character Driven
Stories can be plot driven or character driven, so which is the best formula to use when writing a story? Knowing a little about both methods should help in making a decision. Plot Driven Story A story’s plot moves the story forward, from point A to point B. It doesn’t necessarily have to be in…
Editing a Children’s Book – 10 Tips Checklist for Authors
You’ve been working on your story for a while now and you think it’s just about done. It’s been critiqued numerous times and you revised it numerous times. Now, it’s time for editing. This entails proofreading and self-editing. You don’t want to short-change yourself on the last stretch, so get ready to put the final…
Submitting Your Manuscript – 8 Tips
Writing is a personal experience. Each writer faces his or her own obstacles and processes. But one common aspect of writing is it always starts with an idea. You may take that idea and turn it into an outline. You then take your outline and sprinkle it with letters and words and watch it grow….