Best of
Writing

2018

Save the Cat! Writes a Novel


Jessica Brody - 2018
    Now, for the first time ever, bestselling author and writing teacher, Jessica Brody, takes the beloved Save the Cat! plotting principals and applies them to the craft of novel writing in this exciting new “workshop style” guide, featuring over 20 full beat sheets from popular novels throughout time.Whether you’re writing your first novel or your seventeenth, Save the Cat! breaks down plot in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step method so you can write stories that resonate! This book can help you with any of the following:Outlining a new novelRevising an existing novelBreaking out of the dreaded “writer’s block”Fixing a “broken” novelReviewing a completed novelFleshing out/test driving a new idea to see if it “has legs”Implementing feedback from agents and/or editorsHelping give constructive feedback to other writersBut above all else, SAVE THE CAT! WRITES A NOVEL will help you better understand the fundamentals and mechanics of plot, character transformation, and what makes a story work!

How to Write an Autobiographical Novel: Essays


Alexander Chee - 2018
    In these essays, he grows from student to teacher, reader to writer, and reckons with his identities as a son, a gay man, a Korean American, an artist, an activist, a lover, and a friend. He examines some of the most formative experiences of his life and the nation’s history, including his father’s death, the AIDS crisis, 9/11, the jobs that supported his writing—Tarot-reading, bookselling, cater-waiting for William F. Buckley—the writing of his first novel, Edinburgh, and the election of Donald Trump.

Newsletter Ninja: How to Become an Author Mailing List Expert


Tammi Labrecque - 2018
     Imagine having a large list of happy readers who devoured every email you sent. Or launching a book and activating an army of fans who did the selling for you. You could be that person, with the help of Newsletter Ninja. Newsletter Ninja is a comprehensive resource designed to teach you how to build and maintain a strongly engaged email list—one full of actual fans willing to pay for the books you write, rather than free-seekers who will forget your name and never open your emails. • Learn new ways to think about your email list • Re-energize your existing subscribers • Embrace not just the basics, but next level methods • Improve engagement and watch those open/click rates soar • Build a happy list of passionate readers • Launch your books into the charts You’ll get a handle on open rates, click rates, and engagement—while also learning about yourself, your readers, and what you’re really selling when you send an email. (Spoiler: it’s not your books.) Whether you’re building a mailing list, want to grow an existing one, or simply want to raise your email game, Newsletter Ninja has solutions that will work for you.

Art Matters


Neil Gaiman - 2018
    (Neil Gaiman)Drawn from Gaiman's trove of published speeches, poems and creative manifestos, 'ART MATTERS' is an embodiment of this remarkable multimedia artist's vision - an exploration of how reading, imagining, and creating can transform the world and our lives. 'ART MATTERS' brings together four of Gaiman's most beloved writings on creativity and artistry:❖1❖"CREDO", his remarkably concise and relevant manifesto on free expression, first delivered in the wake of the Charlie Hebdo shootings❖2❖"MAKE GOOD ART", his famous 2012 commencement address delivered at the Philadelphia University of the Arts❖3❖"MAKING A CHAIR", a poem about the joys of creating something, even when the words won't come❖4❖"ON LIBRARIES", an impassioned argument for libraries that illuminates their importance to our future and celebrates how they foster readers and daydreamers.'ART MATTERS' is a stirring testament to the freedom of ideas that inspire us to make art in the face of adversity and dares us to choose to be bold.RUNNING TIME ⇰ 49mins.©2018 Neil Gaiman (P)2018 HarperCollins Publishers

Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life through the Power of Storytelling


Matthew Dicks - 2018
    

The Creativity Project: An Awesometastic Story Collection


Colby SharpTravis Jonker - 2018
    When they received their prompts, they responded by transforming these seeds into any form of creative work they wanted to share. The result is a stunning collection of words, art, poetry, and stories by some of our most celebrated children book creators. A section of extra story starters by every contributor provides fresh inspiration for readers to create works of their own. Here is an innovative book that offers something for every kind of reader and creator! With contributions by Sherman Alexie, Tom Angleberger, Jessixa Bagley, Tracey Baptiste, Sophie Blackall, Lisa Brown, Peter Brown, Lauren Castillo, Kate DiCamillo, Margarita Engle, Deborah Freedman, Adam Gidwitz, Chris Grabenstein, Jennifer L. Holm, Victoria Jamieson, Travis Jonker, Jess Keating, Laurie Keller, Jarret J. Krosoczka, Kirby Larson, Minh Lê, Grace Lin, Kate Messner, Daniel Nayeri, Naomi Shihab Nye, Debbie Ohi, R.J. Palacio, Linda Sue Park, Dav Pilkey, Andrea Davis Pinkney, Jewell Parker Rhodes, Dan Santat, Gary Schmidt, John Schu, Colby Sharp, Bob Shea, Liesl Shurtliff, Lemony Snicket, Laurel Snyder, Javaka Steptoe, Mariko Tamaki, Linda Urban, Frank Viva, and Kat Yeh.

Ursula K. Le Guin: Conversations on Writing


Ursula K. Le Guin - 2018
    Le Guin as America’s greatest writer of science fiction, they just might have undersold her legacy. It’s hard to look at her vast body of work?novels and stories across multiple genres, poems, translations, essays, speeches, and criticism?and see anything but one of our greatest writers, period.In a series of interviews with David Naimon (Between the Covers), Le Guin discusses craft, aesthetics, and philosophy in her fiction, poetry, and nonfiction respectively. The discussions provide ample advice and guidance for writers of every level, but also give Le Guin a chance to to sound off on some of her favorite subjects: the genre wars, the patriarchy, the natural world, and what, in her opinion, makes for great writing. With excerpts from her own books and those that she looked to for inspiration, this volume is a treat for Le Guin’s longtime readers, a perfect introduction for those first approaching her writing, and a tribute to her incredible life and work.

The Business of Being a Writer


Jane Friedman - 2018
    Too often missing from these conversations is the fact that writing is also a business. The reality is, those who want to make a full- or part-time job out of writing are going to have a more positive and productive career if they understand the basic business principles underlying the industry.The Business of Being a Writer offers the business education writers need but so rarely receive. It is meant for early-career writers looking to develop a realistic set of expectations about making money from their work or for working writers who want a better understanding of the industry. Writers will gain a comprehensive picture of how the publishing world works—from queries and agents to blogging and advertising—and will learn how they can best position themselves for success over the long term.

Become a Successful Indie Author: Work Toward Your Writing Dream


Craig Martelle - 2018
    This is a motivational guide based on my two and a half million published words (mostly with Amazon) to help you see past the hurdles that are keeping you from climbing the mountain of success. Nothing is overwhelming once it's been explained. If you are smart enough to write a book, you are smart enough to do everything else needed to make your indie author business a success. "Craig, thanks to the book, I went from kicking around vague concepts for my first series to knowing exactly how to proceed with it, and because of that I know it'll be far more successful than it would have been if I hadn't read this." "This was insightful and motivating, I'm inspired and wiser for it. Thank you, Craig." "Over the years, I’ve read many How To Books, Self Help Biographies, and Industry Books. Become a Successful Indie Author is one of the best. It reads like a novel, teaches specifics like a field manual, and shines light on pathways through the dark jungle of self-publishing." Clocking in at nearly 50,000 words, this guide has something for every budding author as well as those who have already published, but for whom success remains elusive. In this business there is only one hard and fast rule - you must find readers willing to pay for your stories. It starts with the first sentence. You have to write a gripping story that people want to read, wrap a cover around the book, and then do the marketing. There’s no doubt that you can do it. Let me show you how.

Amazon Decoded: A Marketing Guide to the Kindle Store


David Gaughran - 2018
    Want to sell more books on the world's biggest retailer? Fancy Amazon doing the selling for you instead? Amazon Decoded: A Marketing Guide to the Kindle Store will show you how.*Learn what Visibility Marketing is and how understanding Amazon's philosophy can boost your sales.*Discover the algorithms that really go into Sales Rank and dispel some remarkably common myths.*Decode the ways Amazon recommends millions of books to readers every single day.*Implement proven marketing plans, optimized for maximum Amazon visibility.Whether you are exclusive to Amazon and chasing those page reads, or a wide author trying to survive the onslaught of Kindle Unlimited titles, Amazon Decoded will share the secrets of the Kindle Store and how you can sell more books.

Strangers To Superfans: A Marketing Guide to The Reader Journey


David Gaughran - 2018
     Strangers to Superfans puts you in the shoes of your Ideal Readers, and forces you to view your marketing from their perspective.*Learn the five stages in the Readers' Journey.*Identify where your blockages are and how to fix them.*Optimize each stage to increase conversion.*Boost sales by making the process more frictionless.*Build an army of passionate readers who do the selling for you.It's not enough to know who your Ideal Readers are, you also need to imagine how they feel when a recommendation email arrives containing your cover. You must figure out why they hesitated before clicking the Buy button. And it's crucial to determine why they liked your book enough to finish it... but not sufficiently to recommend it to their friends.The Reader Journey is a new marketing paradigm that maps out the journey your Ideal Readers take in their transformation from strangers to superfans.

Black Ink: Literary Legends on the Peril, Power, and Pleasure of Reading and Writing


Stephanie Stokes Oliver - 2018
    This unique collection seeks to shed light on that injustice and subjugation, as well as the hard-won literary progress made, putting some of America’s most cherished voices in a conversation in one magnificent volume that presents reading as an act of resistance. Organized into three sections, the Peril, the Power, and Pleasure, and with an array of contributors both classic and contemporary, Black Ink presents the brilliant diversity of black thought in America while solidifying the importance of these writers within the greater context of the American literary tradition. At times haunting and other times profoundly humorous, this unprecedented anthology guides you through the remarkable experiences of some of America’s greatest writers and their lifelong pursuits of literacy and literature. The foreword was written by Nikki Giovanni. Contributors include: Frederick Douglass, Solomon Northup, Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, Malcolm X, Maya Angelou, Martin Luther King, Jr., Toni Morrison, Walter Dean Myers, Stokely Carmichael [Kwame Ture], Alice Walker, Jamaica Kincaid, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Terry McMillan, Junot Diaz, Edwidge Danticat, Colson Whitehead, Marlon James, Roxane Gay, Ta-Nehisi Coates, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Colson Whitehead. The anthology features a bonus in-depth interview with President Barack Obama.

Elements of Indigenous Style: A Guide for Writing by and about Indigenous Peoples


Gregory Younging - 2018
    Everyone working in words or other media needs to read this important new reference, and to keep it nearby while they're working.This guide features:Twenty-two succinct style principles. Advice on culturally appropriate publishing practices, including how to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples, when and how to seek the advice of Elders, and how to respect Indigenous Oral Traditions and Traditional Knowledge. Terminology to use and to avoid. Advice on specific editing issues, such as biased language, capitalization, and quoting from historical sources and archives. Case studies of projects that illustrate best practices.

The Writer's Map: An Atlas of Imaginary Lands


Huw Lewis-Jones - 2018
    Put a map at the start of a book, and we know an adventure is going to follow. Displaying this truth with beautiful full-color illustrations, The Writer’s Map is an atlas of the journeys that our most creative storytellers have made throughout their lives. This magnificent collection encompasses not only the maps that appear in their books but also the many maps that have inspired them, the sketches that they used while writing, and others that simply sparked their curiosity.   Philip Pullman recounts the experience of drawing a map as he set out on one of his early novels, The Tin Princess. Miraphora Mina recalls the creative challenge of drawing up ”The Marauder’s Map” for the Harry Potter films. David Mitchell leads us to the Mappa Mundi by way of Cloud Atlas and his own sketch maps. Robert Macfarlane reflects on the cartophilia that has informed his evocative nature writing, which was set off by Robert Louis Stevenson and his map of Treasure Island. Joanne Harris tells of her fascination with Norse maps of the universe. Reif Larsen writes about our dependence on GPS and the impulse to map our experience. Daniel Reeve describes drawing maps and charts for The Hobbit film trilogy. This exquisitely crafted and illustrated atlas explores these and so many more of the maps writers create and are inspired by—some real, some imagined—in both words and images.   Amid a cornucopia of 167 full-color images, we find here maps of the world as envisaged in medieval times, as well as maps of adventure, sci-fi and fantasy, nursery rhymes, literary classics, and collectible comics. An enchanting visual and verbal journey, The Writer’s Map will be irresistible for lovers of maps, literature, and memories—and anyone prone to flights of the imagination.

Why They Can't Write: Killing the Five-Paragraph Essay and Other Necessities


John Warner - 2018
    In Why They Can't Write, John Warner, who taught writing at the college level for two decades, argues that the problem isn't caused by a lack of rigor, or smartphones, or some generational character defect. Instead, he asserts, we're teaching writing wrong.Warner blames this on decades of educational reform rooted in standardization, assessments, and accountability. We have done no more, Warner argues, than conditioned students to perform "writing-related simulations," which pass temporary muster but do little to help students develop their writing abilities. This style of teaching has made students passive and disengaged. Worse yet, it hasn't prepared them for writing in the college classroom. Rather than making choices and thinking critically, as writers must, undergraduates simply follow the rules--such as the five-paragraph essay--designed to help them pass these high-stakes assessments.In Why They Can't Write, Warner has crafted both a diagnosis for what ails us and a blueprint for fixing a broken system. Combining current knowledge of what works in teaching and learning with the most enduring philosophies of classical education, this book challenges readers to develop the skills, attitudes, knowledge, and habits of mind of strong writers.

The Byline Bible: Get Published in Five Weeks


Susan Shapiro - 2018
    So why not you?Over the last two decades, writing professor Susan Shapiro has taught more than 25,000 students of all ages and backgrounds at NYU, Columbia, Temple, The New School, and Harvard University. Now in The Byline Bible she reveals the wildly popular "Instant Gratification Takes Too Long" technique she's perfected, sharing how to land impressive clips to start or re-launch your career.In frank and funny prose, the bestselling author of 12 books walks you through every stage of crafting and selling short nonfiction pieces. She shows you how to spot trendy subjects, where to start, finish and edit, and divulges specific steps to submit work, have it accepted, get paid, and see your byline in your favorite publication in lightning speed.With a foreword by Peter Catapano, long-time editor at the New York Times where many of Shapiro's pupils have first seen print, this book offers everything you need to learn to write and sell your story in five weeks or less, including:- How to craft a cover letter and subject heading to get read and reviewed quickly - Who pay for essays, op-eds, regional, humor, or service pieces from unknown writers - Ways to follow up, build on your success, land a TV or radio spot, become a regular contributor, staff writer, and find a literary agent for your book with one amazing clipWhether you're just starting out or ready to enhance your professional portfolio, this essential guide will prove that three pages can change your life.

Fast Draft Your Memoir


Rachael Herron - 2018
    "Rachael Herron resonates with our audience, and not just because she knows her stuff--she does--or because she's hilarious--she is--but because her honesty and earnestness come through in all her messaging." Samantha Sanders, Writer's Digest Writing memoir is daunting! You're the expert on your life, naturally, but narrating and organizing your own experiences in the best way can feel impossible. Many writers become frustrated in early drafting stages and quit after a couple of brief attempts. Learn from bestselling memoirist Rachael Herron (who teaches this class at Stanford Continuing Studies) how to fast-draft your memoir while keeping its structure compelling. Learn how to frame your life's story and give it a natural arc to keep your reader glued to the page. Figure out how to handle those family and friends you're writing about. Explore what truth means in memoir. Work quickly to quiet the inner critic. Most of all, learn how to get out of your own way to get the words on the page. You can do this! Rachael will show you how.

How to Write a Dynamite Scene Using the Snowflake Method (Advanced Fiction Writing Book 2)


Randy Ingermanson - 2018
    Because if you can write one terrific scene, you can write a hundred. And that’s a novel. This is a short book, with just one goal—to teach you the simple principles you can use right now to design a powerful scene before you write it. If you’ve already written your novel, you can use these same principles to make each scene better. About the Book How to Write a Dynamite Scene Using the Snowflake Method will give you the power tools you need to write scenes that move your reader’s emotions. You’ll learn: The one thing your reader most desperately wants. And why. How to decide which character should have the point of view. The 2 kinds of scenes designed to give your reader a powerful emotional experience—and how to know which to use. 5 ways to test that your lead character’s goal in each scene is perfect. How to end every scene so it leaves your reader wanting more. Why dilemmas are good, and how to know when they’re ruining your story. 4 ways to know that your character’s decision will drive your story forward. How to know when a scene is broken—and how to fix it. Excerpt from Chapter 1: Your reader desperately wants one thing. You have it in your power to give your reader that one thing. And what is that one thing? I could tell you what that one thing is, and you would nod and agree that yes, that one thing is clearly something all readers want. But telling you that one thing wouldn’t make it stick in your mind forever. I want it to stick. I’d rather show you that one thing. Once you’ve seen it, once you’ve lived it, you’ll never forget it. That one thing will be inside you, fueling everything you write. So let me tell you a quick story about one of our ancestors who lived many thousands of years ago in a small village on this planet we call home. When I say he’s our ancestor, I mean it literally—he’s your ancestor and he’s my ancestor and he’s every human’s ancestor. That ancestor of ours was once a thirteen-year-old boy, the newest man in the village, and the smallest. Imagine you’re that boy on the day when word comes to the village that there’s a killer tiger ravaging the village’s herd of goats. The Tale of the Tiger You’re furious. A drought has been burning the land for many months. That herd of goats is all that keeps your village from starvation. You’re also terrified. There’s only one way to get rid of a killer tiger. The village has to organize a hunt, find the tiger, and kill it. But that won’t be easy, because there’s nothing more dangerous in your world than a killer tiger. The village headman sends word around to the whole village. All men meet in the village square, and bring your spear. When the messenger comes to your hut, he shakes his head and frowns. He thinks you’re too young to go. In your heart, you’re afraid he’s right.

The Artist's Journey: The Wake of the Hero's Journey and the Lifelong Pursuit of Meaning


Steven Pressfield - 2018
    Wherever you are, whatever you've been called to make, you need to read this book...and everything else he has written." — Ryan Holiday, Bestselling Author of Ego Is the Enemy and The Obstacle Is the Way YOU ARE AN ARTIST ... AND YOU HAVE AN ARTIST’S JOURNEY I have a theory about the Hero’s Journey. We all have one. We have many, in fact. But our primary hero’s journey is the passage we live out, in real life, before we find our calling.The hero’s journey ends when, like Odysseus, we return home to Ithaca, to the place from which we started. What then? The passage that comes next is The Artist’s Journey.On our artist’s journey, we move past Resistance and past self-sabotage. We discover our true selves and our authentic calling, and we produce the works we were born to create.You are an artist too—whether you realize it or not, whether you like it or not—and you have an artist’s journey. Will you live it out? Will you follow your Muse and do the work you were born to do?Ready or not, you are called.

Welcome to the Writer's Life: How to Design Your Writing Craft, Writing Business, Writing Practice, and Reading Practice


Paulette Perhach - 2018
    Like a freshman orientation for writers, this book includes an in-depth exploration of all the elements of a writer's life, from your writing practice to your reading practice, to your writing craft and the all-important and often-overlooked business of writing. Harness the powers of crowdsourcing and social media to grow your writing career, and use the most current research on success, gamification, and lifestyle design to take your writing life to the next level. Complete with writing exercises, tools, checklists, infographics, and behind-the-scenes tips from working writers of all types, this book offers everything you need to jump-start a successful writing life.

The Elements of Style: Classic Edition (2018): With Editor's Notes, New Chapters & Study Guide


William Strunk Jr. - 2018
    It is now being used as a textbook in classes at University of Minnesota, University of Texas, UC Berkeley, and elsewhere. Generations of college students and writers have learned the basics of English grammar from this short book. It was rated "one of the 100 most influential books written in English" by Time in 2011, and iconic author Stephen King recommended it as a grammar primer that all aspiring writers should read. Written a century ago, Strunk's book is a nostalgic link to the Art Deco era and the Roaring Twenties. Many of the grammar rules listed in his book still apply today; but the English language has changed over the years, and some of these rules have are now obsolete. This Classic Edition addresses these changes with the following enhancements and additional content: 1. This 2018 update adds two new chapters requested by college professors and students: Basic Rules of Capitalization and Style Rules for Better Writing. 2. Editor's notes have been inserted throughout the book to flag grammar rules that are become obsolete and to provide up-to-date advice for students and writers. 3. Emojis have been added to help readers identify correct examples from errors at a glance. 4. A Study Guide is included in the last chapter, and the paperback version includes blank, lined pages in the back of the book for note taking. 5. The e-book version has been restyled for improved display on the latest generations of digital book-reading devices. Elements of Style: Classic Edition 2018 gives students and writers a blueprint that they can follow to write clearly and effectively while learning the fundamental rules of English Grammar. NOTE: Some courses may specify other versions of this book, such as Elements of Style 4th Edition by E.B. White, or Elements of Style 2017, which builds on Strunk's work and presents 500+ up-to-date grammar and style rules for students and writers. If your course requires one of these versions, use these links to obtain the correct book: --The Elements of Style, 4th Edition (Strunk & White) http://amazon.com/dp/020530902X --Elements of Style 2017 http://amazon.com/dp/1988236282

The Idea: The Seven Elements of a Viable Story for Screen, Stage or Fiction


Erik Bork - 2018
    Most writers (and most screenwriting books) rush too quickly through choosing a story idea, to get to the process of outlining and writing it. And it's the biggest reason most projects don't move forward in the marketplace: producers and editors are underwhelmed by the central concept. Multiple Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning screenwriter and producer Erik Bork (HBO's Band of Brothers) explains the seven key ingredients in stories that have a chance of selling and reaching a wide audience - in any genre or medium.

Firefly Magic: Heart Powered Marketing for Highly Sensitive Writers


Lauren Sapala - 2018
    Regardless of the wealth of book marketing tools and resources available to writers and artists today, most highly creative people still feel suspicious, confused, or just plain turned off by marketing and sales. The hidden reason behind this resistance is a deeply rooted fear that marketing for writers always results in a loss of integrity for the writer. Almost all highly creative people are also Highly Sensitive People, many of which are INFJ or INFP personality types. These Highly Sensitive Writers feel any possible threat to their integrity intensely. The fear they feel around marketing takes root in limiting beliefs that shut them down before they even begin. Lauren Sapala shares stories and strategies to help Highly Sensitive Writers shift their mindset and open up to new ways to promote their work. She helps all writers realize that—due to their Highly Sensitive nature—they might just make the best salespeople of all.

Writing the Cozy Mystery


Nancy J. Cohen - 2018
    Writing the Cozy Mystery is a concise reference guide that will help you develop your characters, establish the setting, plot the story, add suspense, plant clues and solve the crime.This award-winning Second Edition contains more examples; additional writing exercises; expanded sections; and seven new chapters including The Muddle in the Middle, Romance and Murder, Special Considerations for Cozy Writers, Keeping a Series Fresh, Writing the Smart Synopsis, Mystery Movies, and Marketing Tips. You’ll find everything you need to know in an easy-to-read, clear manner to write your own mystery and maintain a long-running series. Gold Award Winner in the Royal Palm Literary AwardsGold Medal Winner in the President's Book AwardsFirst Place Winner in TopShelf Magazine Book AwardsAgatha Awards FinalistIAN Book of the Year Awards Finalist“If you are thinking about writing a cozy mystery, read this book first! Nancy lays out all the necessary steps in an interesting and informative way that is easy to follow. Highly recommended.” Catherine Bruns, USA Today Bestselling Author of the Cookies & Chance Mysteries“Nancy J. Cohen offers clear examples, practical writing exercises, and friendly advice designed to help the beginning cozy author start—and finish!—a saleable book. Even seasoned cozy writers can find helpful hints for building better characters and story.” Diane A.S. Stuckart, NY Times Bestselling Author of the Tarot Cats Mysteries “If you want to write a cozy mystery—or really, any kind of mystery—this is the book for you! Everything you need to know in one handy volume.” Victoria Thompson, Bestselling Author of the Gaslight Mystery Series

The Freelance Content Marketing Writer: Find your perfect clients, Make tons of money and Build a business you love


Jennifer Goforth Gregory - 2018
    Earn six figures as a freelance content marketing writer with this comprehensive how-to guide. This book reveals their secrets. Inside is everything you need to know to start or grow a freelance content marketing business. Jennifer shares her proven ideas, step-by-step processes and templates for writers of all career stages. Hundreds of writers (including Jennifer, herself) have used these methods to find high-paying clients, increase their income and create businesses they truly love. You’ll learn how to: • Craft an LOI that’s worth $10k or more • Create a website and LinkedIn profile that brings clients to you • Tap into your experience and skills to find your perfect niches • Write great content that your clients love • Design a business that gives you work-life balance

First You Write a Sentence.: The Elements of Reading, Writing … and Life


Joe Moran - 2018
    Any writer should read it' Bee Wilson'Thoughtful, engaging, and lively ... when you've read it, you realise you've changed your attitude to writing (and reading)' John Simpson, formerly Chief Editor of the OED and author of The Word DetectiveThe sentence is the common ground where every writer walks. A poet writes in sentences, but so does the unsung author who came up with Items trapped in doors cause delays. A good sentence can be written (and read) by anyone if we simply give it the gift of our time, and it is as close as most of us will get to making something truly beautiful.Enter acclaimed author Professor Joe Moran. Using minimal technical terms, First You Write a Sentence is his unpedantic but authoritative explanation of how the most ordinary words can be turned into verbal constellations of extraordinary grace. Using sources ranging from the Bible and Shakespeare to George Orwell and Maggie Nelson, and scientific studies of what can best fire the reader's mind, he shows how we can all write in a way that is clear, compelling and alive.Whether dealing with finding the ideal word, building a sentence or constructing a paragraph, First You Write a Sentence informs by light example: much richer than a style guide, it can be read not just for instruction but for pleasure and delight. And along the way it shows how good writing can help us notice the world, make ourselves known to others and live more meaningful lives. It's an elegant gem in praise of the English sentence.'Moran is a past master at producing fine, accessible non-fiction' Helen Davies, Sunday Times'Joe Moran has a genius for turning the prosaic poetic' Peter Hennessy

Running Down a Dream: Your Road Map to Winning Creative Battles


Tim Grahl - 2018
     When you dream, you envision a magical future. You have heroically slayed the dragons and unlocked the creativity and genius buried deep inside. But how do you actually get there? You can analyze the myths of visionary creators–artists, writers, musicians, software developers, etc that have accomplished the impossible. You’ll read about how they went for it, refused to quit, and would not be denied. But exactly how these successful creators went from being fearful dreamers to accomplished artists proves elusive. They seem to have secret sauce inside that you just don’t possess. Running Down a Dream unflinchingly bares the naked truth behind all creations and shares the practical to-do list to take you from here to there. The good news? You don’t have to be an Austen or a Michelangelo or an Oprah to create a work of art. The bad news? There is no glossing over the pain, embarrassment, and financial terror necessary to contend with on your journey to mission accomplished. More good news? What lies ahead for you is the realization of your heroic self. The run is worth it in ways you can’t yet imagine.

How To Write Non-Fiction: Turn Your Knowledge Into Words (Books for Writers Book 9)


Joanna Penn - 2018
    Sure, it helped other people, but mostly it altered the course of my life – so much so that 10 years later, I make a living with my writing. I've written seven other non-fiction books and co-written two more and built a multi-six-figure income around my non-fiction eco-system. In this book, I'll share everything I've learned along the way and save you time, effort and frustration on your author journey. The book includes: PART 1. Before You Write: Mindset Why write a non-fiction book? Can I write a book if I'm not the expert? Originality. Or, there are so many other books on this topic Who are you? Personal stories and the writer's voice The day a non-fiction book changed my life Fear and self-doubt PART 2. Before You Write: Business Types of non-fiction books Business models for non-fiction books Who is your book for? Identify your target market Decide on the topic for your book Decide on your book title Your author name and pseudonyms How long does your book have to be? How long will it take to write the book? Your perspective on time Writing a book proposal PART 3. Writing and Editing Gather and organize existing material Research, interviews, surveys, and social listening Structure and organize the book How to write the first draft How to dictate your book Turn your blog/podcasts/videos/talks into a book Speed and quality Focus and shiny object syndrome Writer's block Co-writing a non-fiction book How to turn a boring book into an engaging read Elements of fiction in non-fiction Truth and perfectionism Legal issues: Using real people, quotes, lyrics, images, and citing sources Self-editing a book How to find and work with professional editors PART 4. Publishing and Product Creation Your publishing options The different formats for your book Non-fiction book covers Book formatting for non-fiction Pricing your book Your book sales description Categories and keywords Turn your non-fiction book into a multimedia course Updating your books over time PART 5. Marketing Non-Fiction Two models of marketing and the importance of mindset Book-centered marketing Paid advertising for non-fiction books Author-centered marketing. The power of a personal brand Build your author website Build an email list Integrate email marketing with your book Content marketing for non-fiction books My non-fiction marketing journey Conclusion and your next steps. It's time to (finally) write your non-fiction book. Download a sample or buy now and start writing.

The Indie Author Mindset: How changing your way of thinking can transform your writing career


Adam L Croft - 2018
    But, after developing the indie author mindset, he was earning $3,500 a day within a matter of weeks.The Indie Author Mindset shows you how simply changing your way of thinking about your writing business can revolutionise your career. Using Adam's personal experiences and examples, you'll be able to think differently about the business side of your writing career and lay down the foundations for long-term success.In The Indie Author Mindset, you'll discover: How to decide who to listen to — and who not to listen to How to unlock the power of residuals How to create more than half a dozen income streams from one book Lessons and advice from Bryan Cohen, David Gaughran, Brian Meeks and Mark Dawson Why almost every writer misunderstands profit and is doing advertising wrong And much, much more! This life-changing book is the motivational kick-up-the-backside all authors need. If you like a non-fiction book with a personal touch, practical tips you can apply every day and all the motivation you need to kick your career on to the next stage, The Indie Author Mindset is for you.

Putting the Science in Fiction: Expert Advice for Writing with Authenticity in Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Other Genres


Dan KoboldtBenjamin Kinney - 2018
    Unfortunately, many depictions of technical subjects in literature, film, and television are pure fiction. A basic understanding of biology, physics, engineering, and medicine will help you create more realistic stories that satisfy discerning readers.This book brings together scientists, physicians, engineers, and other experts to help you:Understand the basic principles of science, technology, and medicine that are frequently featured in fiction.Avoid common pitfalls and misconceptions to ensure technical accuracy.Write realistic and compelling scientific elements that will captivate readers.Brainstorm and develop new science- and technology-based story ideas.Whether writing about mutant monsters, rogue viruses, giant spaceships, or even murders and espionage, Putting the Science in Fiction will have something to help every writer craft better fiction.Putting the Science in Fiction collects articles from "Science in Sci-fi, Fact in Fantasy," Dan Koboldt's popular blog series for authors and fans of speculative fiction (dankoboldt.com/science-in-scifi). Each article discusses an element of sci-fi or fantasy with an expert in that field. Scientists, engineers, medical professionals, and others share their insights in order to debunk the myths, correct the misconceptions, and offer advice on getting the details right.

Writing Tools: 55 Essential Strategies for Every Writer


Roy Peter Clark - 2018
    In the past decade, Writing Tools has become a classic guidebook for novices and experts alike and remains one of the best loved books on writing available.Organized into four sections, "Nuts and Bolts," "Special Effects," "Blueprints for Stories," and "Useful Habits," Writing Tools is infused with more than 200 examples from journalism and literature. This new edition includes five brand new, never-before-shared tools.Accessible, entertaining, inspiring, and above all, useful for every type of writer, from high school student to novelist, Writing Tools is essential reading.

The Influential Author: How and Why to Write, Publish, and Sell Nonfiction Books that Matter


Gregory V. Diehl - 2018
    Diehl teaches passionate thinkers how to turn unique messages into profitable books—without sacrificing royalties or creative control to a publisher. With in-depth advice about all stages of book creation, publication, and marketing, The Influential Author takes a uniquely grounded and intellectual approach to nonfiction self-publishing. Unlike self-publishing guides that promise to teach you how to write a bestselling book quickly and easily, Diehl’s book actually walks you through the complex details of planning, writing, editing, and promoting your work at the standards of traditional publishing. Whether you are an experienced writer or have just started thinking about how to write a nonfiction book, The Influential Author will teach you about: • Combining your passions and experience with reader demand to decide what book to write. • Organizing your knowledge into sections and chapters for maximum comprehension and flow. • Refining your book with feedback from editors, proofreaders, beta readers, and market testing. • Choosing a title, subtitle, description, and cover design that capture your message and create sales. • Pricing and promoting each format of your book (digital, print, and audio) for maximum readership and revenue. • Enjoying lifelong passive income, influence, and meaning from your book’s success. Publishing a book could be one of the most important things you ever do. Read The Influential Author to begin your path to writing nonfiction books that matter. Table of ContentsForeword by Tom MorkesQuestions to Help You Get the Most from This BookIntroduction to This Book’s Structure and PurposePart 1 - PhilosophyChapter 1: The Historical Influence of WritingChapter 2: Introspecting What to Write AboutPart 2 - StrategyChapter 3: The Market Ecosystem around Your BookChapter 4: Designing the Meaning of Your MessagePart 3 - CreationChapter 5: The Qualities and Conditions of a WriterChapter 6: Writing Your First DraftPart 4 - RefinementChapter 7: Effectively Editing Your MessageChapter 8: Proofreading, Pedantry, and PunctuationPart 5 - PresentationChapter 9: Book Appearance and First ImpressionsChapter 10: Preparing Each Format of Your BookPart 6 - PromotionChapter 11: Setting Your Book for LaunchChapter 12: Maintaining Book Traffic and ExposurePart 7 - RewardChapter 13: What Happens When You Publish a BookChapter 14: Your Destiny as Author and Publisher for Life

Writing to Be Understood: What Works and Why


Anne H. Janzer - 2018
    When you recognize what what's happening, you can apply those same methods to your own writing. Writing To Be Understood is the thinking writer's guide to effective nonfiction writing techniques, such as: - Using analogies effectively to illustrate unseen concepts - Appealing to the reader's innate curiosity - Alternating between abstraction and detail in explanations - Balancing humility with credibility For each topic, the book combines insights from cognitive science with advice from writers and expert practitioners in fields of psychology, technology, economics, medicine, policy, and more. Whether you're an expert trying to communicate with a mainstream audience or a nonfiction writer hoping to reach more people, Writing to be Understood will help you expand the impact of your words.

The Write Thing: Kwame Alexander Engages Students in Writing Workshop


Kwame Alexander - 2018
    With The Write Thing, you can do just that! Kwame Alexander is the New York Times-bestselling author of The Crossover. With more than 10 years of experience conducting writing workshops in schools, Alexander shows how to shake up the "traditional" writing workshop and make writing fun again! His magnetic personality, infectious enthusiasm, and love of teaching come through to inspire all students to write. The Write Thing teaches you how to move students step-by-step from ideas, to drafts, to finished works. Not only will you successfully motivate your students to write, you'll take that motivation one step further by providing guidance on how to create student-driven publications of their work. The confidence students will attain when they see their writing authentically published will be off the charts! The book has three parts: Writing, Publishing, and Presenting. The Writing section features Lessons in Action that teach students to produce writing that is worthy of being published. With a focus on poetry, Alexander's writing workshop uniquely meets the needs of reluctant writers. The Publishing section focuses on how to prepare and print digital and physical copies of students' work. The Presenting section provides suggestions to help students confidently present their poetry and other written pieces. Other exciting features include Kwame Time! videos for both teachers and students that bring Alexander into the classroom. Kwame's Quick Tips feature easy-to-implement ideas that have worked for Alexander. With an insightful foreword by author Kylene Beers, teacher success stories, and the most helpful appendix ever written, this essential resource will teach you how to tailor writing workshop to meet the particular needs of your students.

Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 2019


Bloomsbury Publishing - 2018
    The Yearbook is packed with advice, inspiration and practical guidance on who to contact and how to get published.New articles in the 2019 edition include:- Writing about sport - Writing successful dialogue - World-building - Managing your portfolio writing career - Self-publishing your audio book - Writing and producing podcasts - The changing world of news journalism - Creating the perfect pitchAll articles are reviewed and updated every year. Key articles on Copyright Law, Tax, Publishing Agreements, E-publishing, Publishing news and trends are fully updated.Plus over 4,000 listings entries on who to contact and how across the media and publishing worldsIn short it is Full of useful stuff - J.K. Rowling

How to Write a Swoon-Worthy Sweet Romance Novel


Victorine E. Lieske - 2018
    How do you make your readers believe your characters are falling in love? How do you show that sizzle of attraction? How do you write a good kissing scene? How do you bring in the much-needed tension but still have your characters flirting and getting closer? In this book I take one of my romance novels (Acting Married) and I go through the entire novel with you, basically interrupting myself to tell you what I was thinking as I was writing the novel. It's like watching a movie with commentary. I pull back the curtain so you can see why I started it the way I did, why I decided to put certain scenes in, and what pushes the romance forward in the book. I preface all this with what I consider the essentials of a good romance novel, and I end with my list of well-loved romance tropes that you can draw from in order to write your own bestselling romance novel.

When God Calls A Writer: Moving Past Insecurity to Write with Confidence


Deanne Welsh - 2018
     In When God Calls A Writer Deanne Welsh weaves the story of Moses with the story of a writer. Do you wonder if God is calling you to write, but you feel unqualified? What are the signs that God is calling you? Do you struggle to hear God's voice and guidance about your writing career? Are you eager for a powerful transformation in your faith and your writing? Learn simple and strategic ways to allow God to connect with God, hear Him and allow Him to direct your writing journey. Author Deanne Welsh shares her own story of insecurity and self-doubt and what it took for her to walk, first with doubt and then with confidence, into God's call for her to write. She gives you practical steps for listening to God and hearing His guidance, as well as the most important questions to ask as you begin your ministry-career of ideas, words, and stories. By the end of this book you will have practical strategies to keep you focused, the specific questions to catapult your writing career forward, and the traits to develop and pay attention to for unstoppable writing success. Your "yes" changes everything.

Influence: Building a Platform that Elevates Jesus (Not Me)


Kate Motaung - 2018
    In today's digital world, speakers and writers are expected to grow their own following---or platform of influence---before gaining access to a microphone or book contract. But as a Christian, is there a way to gather followers and still follow Jesus? Is it possible to both build up your stats and take up your cross? How can you reconcile promoting yourself when you're called to humble yourself, or elevating your name when you're commissioned to elevate Christ's?Authors Kate Motaung and Shannon Popkin know what it's like to wrestle with these questions. In Influence: Building a Platform that Elevates Jesus (Not Me), you're invited to a platform-building coaching session with the carpenter from Nazareth. Join Shannon and Kate in this challenge to acknowledge the tension, set aside fears, examine hidden motives, and embrace the high calling of serving Christ. By utilizing the practical tools, exercises, and discussion questions provided, you'll emerge with new confidence, awareness, and decision-making clarity--ready to step out and shine the light of Jesus from the platform God has strategically placed beneath your feet.

How To Self-Publish A Children's Book: Everything You Need To Know to Write, Illustrate, Publish, And Market Your Paperback And Ebook (How To Write For Children Series)


Yvonne Jones - 2018
    Eevi Jones outlines the precise path to fulfilling your dream of becoming a published children’s book author. You will find everything you need to know to write, illustrate, publish, and market your paperback and ebook.   Plus, you will find:   *Templates and Swipe Files of emails to hire Editors and Illustrators, plus how to ask Influencers for reviews you can feature on your cover. *A Hand-Selected List of highly qualified Editors, Illustrators, Book Formatters, and Marketing Strategists you can hire, without it costing you a fortune. *Lists of Blogs, Book Festivals, Awards, and Groups specifically for marketing children’s books. *BONUS: valuable Insider Tips from bestselling children’s book authors. What do they wish they’d known before they worked on their first children’s book?   How To Self-Publish A Children's Book will help you write a magical story tailored to specific age groups. How To Self-Publish A Children's Book will empower you to bring your characters to life. How To Self-Publish A Children's Book will turn you into a published children’s book author.   Take the first step. And this book will show you the rest.

How to Self-publish and Market a Children's Book: The key steps to self-publishing in print and as an eBook and how to get your story into young readers' hands


Karen P. Inglis - 2018
     Have you written a children’s story that you can’t find a home for? Are you feeling overwhelmed by your current children’s self-publishing journey? Or perhaps you're traditionally published but curious about your other options? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, How to Self-publish and Market a Children's Book will provide the key answers to your self-publishing questions – as well as practical guidance and key strategies for selling more children's books face to face and online. After reading this book, you will understand: How and where you can self-publish your children’s story at little or no cost Why print matters when it comes to children’s self-publishing, but why eBooks are also critical for marketing Why it’s important to work with professional children’s editors, illustrators and cover designers, and where to find them How to set up successful school visits and other face-to-face events Best practice and expectations for getting into bookshops The best free and low-cost tools and advertising platforms to help with your book marketing, and how to get reviews Where to find like-minded self-publishers and children’s writers for ongoing exchange of support and advice Karen Inglis has sold close to 40,000 children's books (mostly in print) since she started self-publishing and is Children's Advisor at the Alliance of Independent Authors. She regularly goes into UK schools and has presented on children's self-publishing around the UK. Read more reviews over on Amazon UK.   Order with one click today for print or Kindle, or to read on other eReading devices using the Kindle app

The Author's Guide to Marketing Books on Amazon (The Author's Guides Series Book 2)


Rob Eagar - 2018
    Did you know their industry dominance can be good news for authors?"I recommend Rob Eagar to any author looking to take their book campaign to a higher level." - Dr. Gary Chapman, New York Times bestselling author of The 5 Love Languages"Rob Eagar's expertise was beyond my expectations..." - Wanda Brunstetter, 6-time New York Times bestselling novelist with over 10 million copies soldAmazon is most potent book-selling machine ever invented. But, you might think Amazon's power is reserved just for the elite bestsellers. How do you get readers to notice and buy your book among thousands of competing titles?In The Author's Guide to Marketing Books on Amazon , Rob Eagar explains how to capture more sales with proven, easy-to-follow techniques. Rob has helped authors hit the New York Times bestseller list in three different categories, including fiction and non-fiction. As you apply the principles in this guide, you will learn how to:* Create persuasive text that converts Amazon shoppers into buyers* Secure more influential customer reviews for free* Override the publisher and upgrade your book's appeal on Amazon yourself* Build your author email list for free using Amazon's huge audience* Create Amazon ads that drive the right readers to your booksThe Amazon sales engine is waiting for you to use. Let Rob show you how to tap into its power, regardless if you self-publish or work with a publisher, write fiction or non-fiction. Every author wants to sell more books on Amazon. Buy a copy of The Author's Guide to Marketing Books on Amazon and make it happen.Have you read every book in The Author's Guide Series from Rob Eagar? Other books include:The Author's Guide to Email MarketingThe Author's Guide to Write Text That Sells Books

The Writer's Field Guide to the Craft of Fiction


Michael Noll - 2018
    THE WRITER'S FIELD GUIDE offers a refreshing approach to the craft of fiction writing. It takes a single page from forty contemporary novels and short stories, identifies techniques used by the writers, and presents approachable exercises and prompts that allow anyone to put those techniques to immediate use in their own work. Encompassing everything from micro (how to "write pretty") to macro (how to "move through time space"), and even how to put all together on page one, this a field guide for anyone who wants to start writing now. "There comes a time in every writer's education when they realize they don't know what the hell they're doing. At this point, a writer can throw in the towel, take out student loans for another round of schooling, or discover a brilliant book like Michael Noll's THE WRITER'S FIELD GUIDE. With patience, good humor, and fortitude, Noll provides a field manual for taking fiction apart and putting it back together again, gaining technical know-how and inspiration along the way. An indispensable book that belongs on every serious writer's desk."--Amanda Eyre Ward "These exercises are a true inspiration for both novice and experienced writers. THE WRITER'S FIELD GUIDE is an invaluable book that will energize any writer's imagination and help overcome any writer's block."--Heidi W. Durrow "Michael Noll, having grown up a curious, pragmatic Midwestern farm boy, now passes along some of his hard-earned fiction writing wisdom, freeing us from the 'Behold! Genius- at-work' writing myths in the process. As a writer you'll still find yourself in awe of what Nabokov, Morrison, or Chekov do on the page, but Noll shines some new light on how fiction writers might reexamine story form, character, and language through an old but nearly forgotten method-close reading and imitation-and build their own entirely original works. Because there's less theory and more practice, we all benefit. 'Tell me a story, ' he quotes one of his former instructors urging, which seems simplistic until you look at how often we avoid doing just that. A terrific, truly curious book about the humbling practice of writing fiction."--Scott Blackwood "For years, Michael Noll's Read to Write Stories blog has been one of my favorite resources, period. Now, at last, along comes his WRITER'S FIELD GUIDE, in which reading and writing are rightly treated as inextricable, such that every sharp insight and lively provocation is rooted in the terra firma of great writing. Indeed, its primary text excerpts are impeccable, but it is also Noll's own intuition, reading acumen, and willingness to push beyond the obvious that ultimately make these exercises so worthwhile, and the book a gem."--Tim Horvath, author of Understories

On Editing: How to edit your novel the professional way (Teach Yourself Creative Writing)


Helen Corner-Bryant - 2018
    Every desk should have a copy!"- Dr Samantha J. Rayner, Director of the Centre for Publishing, UCL"On Editing is a feast with many courses. When you have finished this book, you will feel encouraged, empowered, and indomitable. If you are writing-or editing-a novel, you could do no better than to have this book by your side. Comprehensive, easily digestible, it is a classic in the making." - Shaye Areheart, Director of the Columbia Publishing CourseWriting a novel is a magical but often difficult journey; and when your first draft is complete, that journey's not over. As the editing process gets underway, authors often find themselves in unfamiliar territory. What does it mean to 'map your plot'? How do you know if you're 'head-hopping'? When is your novel ready to send out to agents, and how do you make each submission count? Written by the team behind one of the world's most successful literary consultancies, On Editing will show you how to master the self-edit. You will learn to compose, draft, and edit while sharpening your writing and ensuring that your novel is structurally sound, authentic, well-written, and ready for submission.On Editing will help you harness your creative potential, transform the way you think about your writing, and revolutionise your editorial process."It's easy for writers to be overwhelmed by the technicalities of writing, editing and getting published, but Helen Corner-Bryant and Kathryn Price share their decades of experience nurturing writers in On Editing. They know all the problems and how to fix them - including many you might not even think of - and explain it all in a clean, jargon-free, way that demystifies the whole process, with infectious enthusiasm that will have you ready, eager and bursting with the confidence to take your writing to the next level." - Writing Magazine

A People's Guide to Publishing: Build a Successful, Sustainable, Meaningful Book Business


Joe Biel - 2018
    You'll learn all the skills of the trade, including how to:Develop your individual books to connect with readers on a practical and emotional levelChoose between offset printed, digitally printed, and eBook formats and work effectively with printersBuild an authentic niche so you can reach your audience and sell books directlyUnderstand if and when you're ready to work with a distributor or large online retailerCreate a budget and predict the cost and income of each book so your company stays in the blackDecide what work you need to do yourself and what can be done by othersPlan for sustainable growthFeaturing interviews with other upstart independent publishers and funny anecdotes from publishing's long history as well as detailed charts and visuals, this book is intended both beginners looking for a realistic overview of the publishing or self-publishing process and for experienced publishers seeking a deeper understanding of accounting principles, ways to bring their books to new audiences, and how to advance their mission in a changing industry. All readers will come away with the confidence to move forward wisely and a strong sense of why publishing matters today more than ever.

The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan: The Professional Guide to Profitable Self-Publishing


Stephanie Chandler - 2018
    In this content-rich book, you will learn how to:•Identify profit opportunities from and around your book•Set up a legitimate and professional author-publisher business•Write your manuscript faster than you thought possible•Avoid mistakes new authors make and get your book published the right way•Enlist beta readers, get endorsements from well-known authors, and generate book reviews•Launch your book into the world with as much buzz as possibleAs nonfiction authors, publishers, and internet entrepreneurs with over three decades of combined industry experience, we understand your unique goals and challenges. We also have the experience to show you how to produce your nonfiction book in the most professional way possible, while you turn your passion into a profitable business. Whether you’re writing self-development, business, memoir, how-to, spiritual, narrative, or other nonfiction book, this authoritative guide by experienced industry professionals will provide you with the solutions you need to achieve your publishing goals. Stephanie Chandler is the author of several books including The Nonfiction Book Marketing Plan. She is the founder and CEO of NonfictionAuthorsAssociation.com and NonfictionWritersConference.com, and a frequent speaker at writers’ conferences and events.Karl W. Palachuk is the author of several books including Relax, Focus, Succeed. He is also a consultant to IT consultants and a frequent blogger at RelaxFocusSucceed.com and SmallBizThoughts.com.

Write Smart, Write Happy: How to Become a More Productive, Resilient and Successful Writer


Cheryl St. John - 2018
    The act of writing, cycles of revision, and the confusing publishing industry can shatter a writer's confidence, leaving you feeling like an imposter, overcome with rejection. Survival--and success--requires commitment, honesty, courage, resilience, sacrifice, and miles and miles of heart.You have everything you need as a writer--it lies within, in the form of consistency and self-confidence. With Write Smart, Write Happy, best-selling author Cheryl St. John will help you unlock your skills, guiding you to overcome every hesitation, obstacle, form of writer's block, and procrastination habit you have. Within these pages, you'll learn to:Organize your writing life by using a planner, scheduling your yearly goals, and acknowledging career plans.Sharpen your saw by recharging your creativity, developing positive motivation, and creating healthy writing habits.Affirm your beliefs by overcoming self-doubt, learning to use affirmations, and altering your thinking.Conquer remaining fears by releasing tendencies towards perfectionism and establishing strategies for habitual success.Written with a no-nonsense attitude, St. John's "advice from the trenches" will help you take an introspective look at your own writing habits and life. Through examples and inspiration from writers who struggled with--and overcame--rejection and reservations, discover the path towards writing smarter and happier today.

Storyteller: How to Be An Audio Book Narrator


Lorelei King - 2018
    It seems that in our busy, multitasking lives, people are hungry for more and more recorded books. In this audio book, two of the best in the business - award-winning narrator and member of the Audible Narrator Hall of Fame Lorelei King and award-winning and Grammy-nominated producer/director Ali Muirden - tell all about what goes into audio book narration and what you can do to prepare yourself for a career in this industry. Topics covered include: What a narrator does. Determining if you have what it takes. Getting experience. How to prepare. Marking up scripts. Research. Creating voices. Handling sex scenes. How to behave in studio. Challenges and troubleshooting. Marketing yourself. Future-proofing. Storyteller - How to Be an Audio Book Narrator is for people who want to get started in the audio book business or who want to learn more about what they have to do to get there. But it's also intended as a guide for narrators already in the business, who might pick up a few tricks and techniques to help them become even better at their craft. This audiobook gives you tools to develop your unique talent, helping you on your way to what might be one of the best jobs in the world.

The Book You Were Born to Write: Everything You Need to (Finally) Get Your Wisdom onto the Page and into the World


Kelly Notaras - 2018
    Life coaches with new methodologies for living on purpose . . . energy workers who've discovered new ways to prevent disease and teach self-healing . . . everyday heroes and heroines who have made it through difficult circumstances and want to inspire others to do the same. In today's tumultuous world, we need these voices in the marketplace. Moreover, publishing a book has never been so simple, accessible, or affordable as it is today. So why are so many thought leaders, healers, and change-agents stuck at the starting line?This book will light the way--offering a simple, step-by-step path that takes authors from concept to finished book. In it, publishing veteran Kelly Notaras demystifies the publishing process and gives writers the tools, insider information, and inspiration to start strong, keep going, and get across the finish line as quickly as possible.

A Primer for Poets and Readers of Poetry


Gregory Orr - 2018
    Using such poems as Theodore Roethke’s "My Papa’s Waltz" and Robert Hayden’s "Those Winter Sundays," the Primer encourages young writers to approach their "thresholds"—those places where disorder meets order, where shaping imagination can turn language into urgent and persuasive poems. It provides the poet with more than a dozen focused writing exercises and explains essential topics such as the personal and cultural threshold; the four forces that animate poetic language (naming, singing, saying, imagining); tactics of revision; ecstasy and engagement as motives for poetry; and how to locate and learn from our personal poetic forebears.

Killing It On Kobo: Leverage Insights to Optimize Publishing and Marketing Strategies, Grow Your Global Sales and Increase Revenue on Kobo


Mark Leslie Lefebvre - 2018
    Mark Leslie Lefebvre was the Director of Self-Publishing and Author Relations at Kobo for six years. Kobo Writing Life was born out of his own desire as an author to establish an author-centric free publishing platform. Drawing upon insights from his years at Kobo as well as his previous two decades of bookselling, writing and publishing experience, Lefebvre shares the challenges, quirks and tricks that are important for helping you leverage Kobo's strengths to your advantage. In this book you will learn: How to navigate the Kobo Writing Life dashboard as well as Kobo itself Strategies optimize your metadata to increase both sales and visibility The importance of leveraging Kobo preorders by understanding how they work Ways to maximize your margin and global earnings per unit sale Proven price optimization techniques that the most successful authors use How to increase your chance of promotional sales direct at Kobo . . . and more . . . Killing It On Kobo is an in-depth, heart-felt and eye-opening series of insights collected in a single volume to give you full access to information and proven strategies that you can use to maximize your own sales and ultimate success selling through Kobo.

New Worlds, Year One: A Writer's Guide to the Art of Worldbuilding


Marie Brennan - 2018
    . . Worldbuilding is one of the great pleasures of writing science fiction and fantasy -- and also one of its greatest challenges. Award-winning fantasy author Marie Brennan draws on her academic training in anthropology to peel back the layers of a setting, going past the surface details to explore questions many authors never think to answer. She invites you to consider the endless variety of real-world cultures -- from climate to counterfeiting, from sumptuary laws to slang --and the equally endless possibilities speculative fiction has to offer. This volume collects essays from the first year of the New Worlds Patreon.

Verbalize: bring stories to life & life to stories (live wire writer guides)


Damon Suede - 2018
    This Live Wire Writer Guide presents a simple, effective technique to sharpen your hook, charge your scenes, and amplify your voice whether you're a beginner or an expert.Most writing manuals skirt craft questions with gimmicks and quick fixes rather than plugging directly into your story's power source. Energize your fiction and boost your career with a new characterization method that jumpstarts drafting, crafting, revision, and pitching.  skill-builders to intensify language, stakes, and emotion for your readers.  battle-tested solutions for common traps, crutches, and habits.  a dynamic story-planning strategy effective for plotters and pantsers.  ample examples and exercises to help you upgrade fiction in any genre.  Blast past overused tics and types with storycraft that busts your ruts and awes your audience. Whether you like to wing it or bring it, Verbalize offers a fresh set of user-friendly, language-based tools to populate your pages and lay the foundations of unforgettable genre fiction.

Screenwriting 101: Mastering the Art of Story


Angus Fletcher - 2018
    Scott Fitzgerald, was lured by the promise of Hollywood glamour to try his hand at screenwriting. He failed. His misadventure became a cautionary tale for aspiring screenwriters for decades. Meanwhile, Oscar-nominated scriptwriter John Milius, who penned the script for Apocalypse Now, once said that his job was “hackwork.” So which is it? Is writing for the screen a glamorous vocation or formulaic drudgery? Is it a difficult undertaking that can sink a great novelist at the height of his career, or simply another boring day job that requires minimal skill?

PR for Poets: A Guidebook to Publicity and Marketing


Jeannine Hall Gailey - 2018
    PR For Poets will empower you to do what you can to connect your poetry book with its audience!

Writing Without Rules: How to Write & Sell a Novel Without Guidelines, Experts, or (Occasionally) Pants


Jeff Somers - 2018
    And all of them are phonies. Well, not completely. There are real, applicable techniques and strategies in any writing reference to help you. But the idea that there's only one way of writing? Nuts! With unconventional approaches to the craft, fresh angles on novel writing and selling, a healthy dose of humor, and no promise of refunds, Writing Without Rules is for those writers who have tried and tried again--and are ready to success on their own terms. In these pages, accomplished author Jeff Somers will show you:The key to a successful writing career is doing the actual writing, no matter the circumstances.Fantastic ideas are available everywhere--you just need to know how to tap into sources through a variety of approaches.Important craft aspects that you should focus on, such as characters and dialogue, while spending less time on others, like setting.Effective ways to get published--whether it's traditional or self-publishing--and how to supplement your income.Whether you're a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in-between, Writing Without Rules is for those writers who are looking for a fresh take on tackling the challenge of writing and selling a novel, and building a career. As Somers will show you, it's less about being perfect in everything, and more about having the confidence to complete everything.

Writer's Digest Guide to Magazine Article Writing: A Practical Guide to Selling Your Pitches, Crafting Strong Articles, & Earning M Ore Bylines


Kerrie L. Flanagan - 2018
    Drawing from her 20 years as a freelance writer and instructor, Flanagan takes you step-by-step through the entire process, sharing her knowledge and experiences in a friendly, conversational way.With more than a dozen sample articles, expert advice from magazine editors and successful freelance writers, practical tips on researching potential publications and instructions on crafting compelling query letters, you'll find the tools needed to write and publish magazine articles.In this book you'll learn how to:- Find and target ideas for the right magazine. - Develop effective query letters to catch the attention of editors and land more assignments. - Organize your writing life using the checklists and tools throughout the book. - Understand and negotiate contracts. - Write and sell personal essays to consumer, niche and trade magazines.Whether your goal is to get your first byline or make the switch from part-time freelancer to full-time writer, The Writer's Digest Guide to Magazine Article Writing is your go-to resource for writing success.

A Stranger's Journey: Race, Identity, and Narrative Craft in Writing


David Mura - 2018
    Mura argues for a more inclusive and expansive definition of craft, particularly in relationship to race, even as he elucidates timeless rules of narrative construction in fiction and memoir. His essays offer technique-focused readings of writers such as James Baldwin, ZZ Packer, Maxine Hong Kingston, Mary Karr, and Garrett Hongo, while making compelling connections to Mura's own life and work as a Japanese American writer.In A Stranger's Journey, Mura poses two central questions. The first involves identity: How is writing an exploration of who one is and one's place in the world? Mura examines how the myriad identities in our changing contemporary canon have led to new challenges regarding both craft and pedagogy. Here, like Toni Morrison's Playing in the Dark or Jeff Chang's Who We Be, A Stranger's Journey breaks new ground in our understanding of the relationship between the issues of race, literature, and culture.The book's second central question involves structure: How does one tell a story? Mura provides clear, insightful narrative tools that any writer may use, taking in techniques from fiction, screenplays, playwriting, and myth. Through this process, Mura candidly explores the newly evolved aesthetic principles of memoir and how questions of identity occupy a central place in contemporary memoir.

How To Write A Scientific Paper: An Academic Self-Help Guide for PhD Students


Jari Saramäki - 2018
    McDonnell Postdoctoral Fellow, University of HelsinkiThe book's systematic approach builds on what I've learned through coauthoring close to 100 research papers with students. You'll learn how to outline your paper from top to down, how to develop your story, and how to think about what to write before you write it. You'll also learn how to deal with many issues that writers of science commonly face, from the fear of the blank page to dealing with critical reviews.Here's what you get: A complete step-by-step plan for writing a scientific paper, from choosing which results to include to wrapping up the paper in the Discussion section Concrete, actionable, and practical advice, from a paragraph-level template for the Introduction to guidance on preparing plots and figures Lots of writing tips, from placing signposts in your text to shortening and straightening your sentences This book has been written for the PhD student who is aiming to write a journal article on her research results, but it should also be useful to any scientist who has ever found writing difficult. Whatever the stage of your career, if you'd like to learn how to write research papers systematically and efficiently, this is the book for you!The book includesPART I: STORY1. How To Choose The Key Point Of Your Paper2. How To Choose The Supporting Results3. How To Write The Abstract4. How To Choose The TitlePART II: OUTLINE5. The Power Of Outlining6. How To Write The Introduction, Part I: Structure7. How To Write The Introduction, Part II: A Four-Paragraph Template8. How To Write The Introduction, Part III: The Lede9. How To Write The Materials And Methods10. How To Write The Results, Part I: Figures11. How To Write The Results, Part II: Text12. How To Write The DiscussionPART III: WORDS13. How Does Your Reader Read?14. How To Write Your First Draft15. How To Edit Your First Draft16. Tips For Revising Content And Structure17. Tips For Editing SentencesPART IV: IT'S NOT OVER YET18. How To Write The Cover Letter19. How To Deal With ReviewsAbout the authorI am a professor of computational science and an experienced academic with around 100 published papers. My research is interdisciplinary, to say the least: I have studied the social fabric of smartphone users, the genetic structure of ant supercolonies, the connectome of the human brain, networks of public transport, and the molecular biology of the human immune system, to name a few. So one could say that I have a broad range of scientific interests (or that I simply cannot choose). But that's exactly the way I like it!

POENA DAMNI: THE TRILOGY (3-Book Box Set)


Dimitris Lyacos - 2018
    Despite its short length, the text took over a period of thirty years to complete with the individual books revised and republished in different editions during this period and arranged around a cluster of concepts including the scapegoat, the quest, the return of the dead, redemption, physical suffering, mental illness. Lyacos's characters are always at a distance from society as such, fugitives, like the narrator of Z213: EXIT, outcasts in a dystopian hinterland like the characters in With the People from the Bridge, or marooned, like the protagonist of The First Death whose struggle for survival unfolds on a desert-like island. Poena Damni has been construed as an "allegory of unhappiness" and compared to works of authors such as Thomas Pynchon, Samuel Beckett and Cormac McCarthy.

Guide to Literary Agents 2019: The Most Trusted Guide to Getting Published (Market)


Robert Lee Brewer - 2018
    Guide to Literary Agents 2019 is your go-to resource for finding that literary agent and earning a contract from a reputable publisher. Along with listing information for more than 1,000 agents who represent writers and their books, the 28th edition of GLA includes: A one-year subscription to the literary agent content on WritersMarket.com (NOTE: the subscription comes with the print version ONLY). The key elements of a successful nonfiction book proposal. Informative articles on crafting the perfect synopsis and detailing what agents are looking for in the ideal client--written by actual literary agents. Plus, debut authors share their varied paths to finding success and their first book publications. +Includes exclusive access to the webinar "Land the Right Agent for Your Writing Career" by GLA and Writer's Market editor Robert Lee Brewer

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook: Simple Lessons and Activities to Teach Yourself Over 1,400 Must-Know Words


Magoosh - 2018
    That’s why leading test-prep expert, Chris Lele, developed a new method for introducing new words into your vocabulary. With The Vocabulary Builder Workbook you will gain and retain a fundamental understanding of more than 1,400 essential words.Ideal for those taking the SAT, ACT, or GRE—or for those who simply want to improve their writing and speaking skills— The Vocabulary Builder Workbook makes the task of expanding your vocabulary an opportunity for real learning and growth.The Vocabulary Builder Workbook will make you a better reader, writer, and test-taker through: Fun and Easy Lessons organized by theme to help you identify roots and form associations and recognize thousands of additional vocabulary words Progressive Learning Techniques for all levels with vocabulary lessons that steadily increase in difficulty for continued advancement Retention Focused Activities to make sure you remember every word long after the test is over The Vocabulary Builder Workbook transforms any lackadaisical wordsmith into a sedulous student with refreshingly simple lessons and fun activities to boost your vocabulary.

5 Things Every First-Time Author Needs to Know: How to Publish a Book and Build Your Platform


Geoff Affleck - 2018
    It's written specifically for new and aspiring non-fiction authors who want to leverage a book to build their platform, practice, and/or business and can be read in under an hour.Professional publishing coach and #1 bestselling author Geoff Affleck offers five insights for first-time non-fiction authors. You will learn how to: Decide on the topic that will attract the most readers Build your email list by leveraging your book Create your book so it sells itself Publish your first book Build a profitable business from your book You'll learn five ways to build your audience while you’re writing your book and the seven factors that you can control that will make your book successful: Craft a Catchy Title Create an Eye Candy Cover Your Book Description Is a Sales Page Do Your Keywords Research Get Your First 10 Reviews Choose Your Categories Carefully Set Your Price Strategically Download this quick and practical eBook today and take the next step to becoming a successful bestselling author.Publishing and marketing a book has a lot of moving parts that are unfamiliar to most authors—and that's where costly mistakes are made. Just reading the section on navigating Amazon's cavernous category system is worth the price of the book! Avoid the pitfalls that most new authors make and set your book up for the success you deserve. Download your copy today.

The Non-Technical Founder: How a 16-Year Old Built a Six Figure Software Company Without Writing any Code


Josh MacDonald - 2018
    

Courageous Creative: A 31-Day Interactive Devotional


Jenny Randle - 2018
    The world needs you to shine.Creativity is a gift from God to each of us—including you. Is a message weighing on your heart or stirring in your soul today, but you're wondering how to communicate it?This hands-on journey will give you the tools and encouragement you need to discover your God-given identity, cultivate your creativity, and express your thoughts. You'll find fun, think-outside-the-box creative challenges that will spark your imagination and inspire you in fresh, new ways.You'll also learn the foundations of your creativity, find ways to overcome the obstacles that keep you from fully expressing yourself, and discover secrets to unleashing the courageous creative in you.Experience creative and spiritual freedom in this one-of-a-kind interactive devotional.

Method Acting For Writers: Learn Deep Point Of View Using Emotional Layers


Lisa Hall-Wilson - 2018
    This intimate and emotive style of writing resonates with contemporary readers, if you’ve got the guts to “go there” with your characters. This writing skill isn't difficult to master, but it requires a shift in how you tell stories and sometimes those shifts don't seem intuitive. What Will You Learn? • Eliminate unnecessary telling • Create immediacy • Effectively use internal dialogue • Understand and use subtext • Strategies to make words pull double duty • Create unique character voice • Tap into your emotive memory (just like actors do) • Learn tips from psychology to write emotions with visceral authenticity • Learn layering and blending techniques for writing emotions • Identify and eliminate author intrusion • Learn effective pacing strategies to intensify emotional impact • Recognize POV breaks • Know when not to use deep point of view • Recognize areas where you're not going deep enough • Learn what an emotional story arc is and how to employ it Take this deep dive and get back to writing FAST! Put Deep POV to work on your whole novel (or just key scenes) for an emotional punch readers can’t resist.

How to Fix Your Academic Writing Trouble


Inger Mewburn - 2018
    It will help you master a range of techniques and strategies to take your writing to the next level and along the way you’ll learn why academic text looks the way it does, and how to produce that ‘authoritative scholarly voice’ that everyone talks about.This book is an easy-to-use resource for postgraduate students and researchers in all disciplines, and even professional academics, to diagnose their writing issues and find ways to fix them. This book would also be a valuable text for academic writing courses and writing groups, such as those offered in doctoral and Master's by research degree programmes.

The Blogger Trailmap: How to Take Your Blog to the Next Level in Easy Steps


Chivi Frost - 2018
    Here are some ways I think the book can help you:Set clear goals and roadmap, avoid common mistakes, and how to get started quickly.Action Oriented Book: Implement what you learn in every section of the book through suggested actions, free downloadable templates and checklists.Start a blog and create content that people would love to read and share.Provide practical blueprints & templates, and demystify all the technical aspects of a blog, e.g. Magnetic Headlines, CopyWriting, Swipe Files SEO, Sales Funnel, Landing Page and eMail Harvest. All in one concise guide.How to crush it on social media.Secrets to rank high in search engines, grow your traffic, and get readers to come find you.How to monetize your platform & build your business- broken down into an easy-to-follow, systematic process.Build a list of raving fans and subscribers – on autopilot without constant hustling.Learn that you don’t need fancy tech or cool tricks to grow your blog.

How to Write the Perfect Resume: Stand Out, Land Interviews, and Get the Job You Want


Dan Clay - 2018
    As you read through the job description, your excitement builds as you realize that the job is a perfect fit! Not wasting another second, you fill out the application, attach your resume, and hold your breath as you hit “Apply.” Then you wait. And wait. And wait some more. Weeks go by without hearing so much as a peep, and before long you’ve given up hope on what seemed like a match made in heaven. Sound familiar? You’re not alone! On average there are 250 resumes submitted for every job opening, which means that 99.6% of applicants will fail to land the jobs they apply for. To get the job you want, you don’t just need a great resume--you need an outstanding resume, one that puts you in the top 1% of candidates for the job. That means ditching the same old advice you’ve been following with little results and adopting a tried-and-true process for getting your resume noticed in even the most competitive situations. In this book, Dan Clay breaks down the exact method he’s carefully developed over a period of ten years and provides a precise, step-by-step set of instructions for crafting the perfect resume, down to the last period. Unlike the dime-a-dozen recruiters turned career coaches who have never had to put themselves on the line in today’s brutally competitive job market, Dan offers practical, real-world experience gained from applying for and getting job offers from some of the most prestigious, competitive companies in the world. And when it comes to something as important as your career, don’t you deserve to learn from someone who’s actually succeeded at doing what you’re hoping to do? Of course you do! Here are some of the things you’ll learn about how to transform your resume from average to awe-inspiring: How to handle tricky pitfalls like extended time off or unemployment and have your resume come out as strong as ever How to make your accomplishments sound dramatically more impressive without having to tell a single lie How to remove the guesswork about what to include in your resume and build it to the exacting specifications of your target job's requirements How to pass the four tests that companies will put your resume through with flying colors How to strike the perfect composition of content, white space, and page length to accentuate and differentiate your strengths How to avoid the common (and not so common) resume mistakes that leave your resume dead on arrival How to tell a powerful story that demonstrates your capabilities in a way that will knock the socks off anyone reading it How to stand out without resorting to cheap tricks that come off as cheesy or over-the-top PLUS, you’ll also gain access to a free companion website containing fully editable resume templates, a perfect resume checklist, and other bonus materials to give you everything you need to create a stunning resume that will get you noticed and land you interviews. Whether you’re a new graduate looking for your first job, a career veteran angling for your next move, a recent victim of a layoff, or someone looking to dip their toes back int

From Page to Stage: Inspiration, Tools, and Simple Public Speaking Tips for Writers


Betsy Graziani Fasbinder - 2018
    She provides inspiration and encouragement to help writers to overcome their fears of public speaking, but she doesn’t stop there; she also lays out the practical, nuts-and-bolts tools they need to select, deselect, and arrange the content of what to say when they’re on a podium, in an interview, or in casual conversations about their writing, and includes a model for handling challenging questions from interviewers and audience members with confidence and grace. Part practical how-to―full of usable tools and tips―and part author cheerleader and champion, From Page to Stage is the ultimate resource for writers who wish bring their storytelling skills to their speaking opportunities.

Poetry: A Writers' Guide and Anthology


Amorak Huey - 2018
    The authors map out more than 25 key elements of poetry including image, lyric, point of view, metaphor, and movement and use these elements as starting points for discussion questions and writing prompts. The book guides the reader through a range of poetic modes including: - Elegy - Found poems - Nocturne - Ode - Protest poems - Ars Poetica - Lyric - Narrative Poetry also offers inspiring examples of contemporary poetry covering all the modes and elements discussed by the book, including poems by: Billy Collins, Sherman Alexie, Aimee Nezhukumatathil, Natalie Diaz, Traci Brimhall, Terrance Hayes, Richard Blanco, Danez Smith, Natasha Trethewey, Mark Halliday, Eileen Myles, Mary Jo Bang, Tracy K. Smith, Ocean Vuong, and many others.

Poetry: A Writers' Guide and Anthology


Amorak Huey - 2018
    The authors map out more than 25 key elements of poetry including image, lyric, point of view, metaphor, and movement and use these elements as starting points for discussion questions and writing prompts. The book guides the reader through a range of poetic modes including: - Elegy - Found poems - Nocturne - Ode - Protest poems - Ars Poetica - Lyric - Narrative Poetry also offers inspiring examples of contemporary poetry covering all the modes and elements discussed by the book, including poems by: Billy Collins, Sherman Alexie, Aimee Nezhukumatathil, Natalie Diaz, Traci Brimhall, Terrance Hayes, Richard Blanco, Danez Smith, Natasha Trethewey, Mark Halliday, Eileen Myles, Mary Jo Bang, Tracy K. Smith, Ocean Vuong, and many others.

Publishing Your Book on Amazon KDP (The Writer's Toolkit Series 4)


Sundari Venkatraman - 2018
    The next logical step would be to publish your story.Read this tool kit to find out the different methods of publishing, the advantages and the pitfalls. And IF, after all that, you find that you still have your book unpublished, there’s a surefire way to get your book published. And that’s Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. Want to know how to go about it? Read this booklet to find out all that you need to know.

It's Alive: Bringing Your Nightmares to Life (The Dream Weaver, #2)


F. Paul WilsonJoe R. Lansdale - 2018
    Featuring interior artwork from horror master Clive Barker!Table of Contents: Introduction by Richard Chizmar Confessions of a Professional Day Dreamer by Jonathan Maberry What is Writing and Why Write Horror by John Skipp Tribal Layers by Gene O’Neill Bake That Cake: One Writer’s Method by Joe R. Lansdale and Kasey Lansdale Ah-Ha: Beginning to End with Chuck Palahniuk and Michael Bailey (Discussing the Spark of Creativity) They Grow in the Shadows: Exploring the Roots of a Horror Story by Todd Keisling Sell Your Script, Keep Your Soul and Beware of Sheep in Wolves' Clothing by Paul Moore The Cult of Constraint (or To Outline or Not) by Yvonne Navarro Zombies, Ghosts and Vampires─Oh My! by Kelli Owen The Many Faces of Horror: Craft Techniques by Richard Thomas Giving Meaning to the Macabre by Rachel Autumn Deering The Horror Writer’s Ultimate Toolbox by Tim Waggoner Sarah Pinborough Interview by Marie O’Regan Conveying Character by F. Paul Wilson Sympathetic Characters Taste Better: Creating Empathy in Horror Fiction by Brian Kirk Virtue & Villainy: The Importance of Character by Kealan Patrick Burke How to write Descriptions in a story by Mercedes Yardley “Don’t Look Now, There’s a Head in That Box!” She Ejaculated Loudly (or Creating Effective Dialogue in Horror Fiction) by Elizabeth Massie Point of View by Lisa Mannetti What Came First the Monster or the Plot? In Conversation with Stephen Graham Jones by Vince A. Liaguno Building Suspense by David Wellington Conveying Horror by Ramsey Campbell Unveiling Theme Through Plot: An Analysis of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Birthmark” by Stephanie M. Wytovich Interview with Clive Barker by Tim Chizmar World Building (Building a terrifying world) by Kevin J. Anderson Speak Up: The Writer’s Voice by Robert Ford Writing for a Better World by Christopher Golden Shaping the Ideas: Getting Things from Your Head to the Paper or on Screen. Interview with Steve Niles, Mick Garris, Heather Graham, Mark Savage, and Maria Alexander by Del Howison On Research by Bev Vincent Editing Through Fear: Cutting and Stitching Stories by Jessica Marie Baumgartner Leaping into the Abyss by Greg Chapman Edit Your Anthology in Your Basement for Fun and Profit! . . . or Not by Tom Monteleone When It’s Their World: Writing for the Themed Anthology by Lisa Morton Roundtable Interview by John Palisano The Tale of the Perfect Submissions by Jess Landry Turning the Next Page: Getting Started with the Business of Writing

The Comic Hero's Journey: Serious Story Structure for Fabulously Funny Films


Steve Kaplan - 2018
    The hero decides to go on the adventure; the comic hero often has no choice. The hero has a wise old man; the comic hero often meets an idiot who inadvertently says something that can teach him a thing or two. Steve Kaplan will show you the diverse paths that comedy takes in The Comic Hero’s Journey.

Daily Writing Resilience: 365 Meditations & Inspirations for Writers


Bryan Robinson - 2018
    However, literary agents say the number one key to writing success is perseverance in the face of disappointment.Daily Writing Resilience provides advice, inspiration, and techniques to help you turn roadblocks into steppingstones. You'll find tips and support through exercises such as meditation, breath work, yoga, stress management, gratitude, de-cluttering, sleep, exercise, mindful eating, and more. These 365 meditations will help you navigate the ups-and-downs of your writing practice, creating positive habits that will guide you toward the success and fulfillment that you've been seeking.Praise: This must-have collection of inspirational nuggets will nudge you free of writer's block. Even if you're not blocked, a morning commune with some of writing's great minds will put you in the right creative space.--Sara Gruen, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Water for ElephantsEvery person with that little voice in their head--the one that tells them to write everyday--must own this book. Every page is full of hope and reality, just what we all need to keep us going.--Steve Berry, New York Times and # 1 Internationally bestselling author of The Patriot ThreatFor every type of writer--new, old, fresh, tired, impassioned, cynical, hopeful . . . this gem is flat out inspiring.--M.J. Rose, New York Times bestselling author of The Secret Language of StonesBryan Robinson's Daily Writing Resilience is not only wise but also marvelously practical. The daily mantras he offers, taken from the experiences of those who've kept to the path, will provide much needed encouragement along the way. Take this book to heart, and then take it with you wherever you go.--William Kent Krueger, New York Times bestselling author of the multi-award winning Ordinary Grace and the Cork O'Connor seriesYou don't have to be a writer to treasure Daily Writing Resilience, a unique and uplifting meditation book. It's chock-full of insights so profound you'll be tempted to gobble it up in one bite!--Cassandra King, author of The Sunday Wife and MoonriseI urge both fledgling and experienced writers to get their hands on Daily Writing Resilience and keep it nearby for handy reference. Bryan Robinson knows his way around the head and heart of the working writer, and this book is a wonderful companion and a balm to the writer's soul.--John Lescroart, New York Times bestselling authorAt last! A real tool for real writers, a reference book that should be on every writer's desk next to their Thesaurus and Strunk & White Elements of Style. A practical guide that can be used as a daily devotional or motivational tool to hold your hand, to guide you, to encourage you, and to pull you back from the ledge.--Karen White, New York Times bestselling author of Flight PatternsA 2018 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award FinalistA 2018 Top Shelf Magazine Indie Book Award Finalist

Southern Writers on Writing


Susan Cushman - 2018
    In SOUTHERN WRITERS ON WRITING, Susan Cushman collects twenty-six writers from across the South whose work celebrates southern culture and shapes the landscape of contemporary southern literature. Contributors hail from Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Florida.Contributors such as Lee Smith, Michael Farris Smith, W. Ralph Eubanks, and Harrison Scott Key, among others, explore issues like race, politics, and family and the apex of those issues colliding. Essayists discuss landscapes, voices in the South, and how writers write. The anthology is divided into six sections, including "Becoming a Writer,"; "Place, Politics, People"; "Writing about Race,"; "The Craft of Writing,"; and "A Little Help from My Friends."

The Evasion-English Dictionary


Maggie Balistreri - 2018
    What if you fired your shrink and hired a copy editor? "An excellent thinking tool for speakers and listeners: how not to say it and why." Daniel DennettThis "cultural criticism in the form of a dictionary" of euphemisms translates the, like, banalities of contemporary speech.Taxonomies of "like," "whatever," "actually," "so," and "sorry" as well as suggested replacements for evasions such as "the relationship" and "I'm sorry if."

10,000 Words per Day


Mason Sabre - 2018
     In the world of indie authors, the pressure is on more to write books faster and get them out into the world. With over 3000 books a day put out onto the Kindle platform alone, you need to keep up with demand. It is a little like treading water.  One way to keep up is to write faster. I consistently write 10,000 words per day without burning myself out and pushing myself to an author breakdown.  I want to show you how to do the same. In this book, I will teach you the skills I have used and developed over my writing career that enable me to write faster, better and more efficiently for my author career. It can work for you too.  The first rule of Write Club - Write,

Every Day a Word Surprises Me Other Quotes by Writers


Phaidon Press - 2018
    This carefully curated book, packed with original research, is a go-to resource for thoughts on a variety of subjects, including originality, punctuation, reading, daily routines, rejection, money troubles, the creative process, love, truth, and more. 'Every day a word surprises me' is a quotation from British neurologist and author Oliver Sacks. This collection is full of its own surprises and hard-earned advice - communicated with the eloquence and clarity that only the world's finest writers could summon.

Indie With Ease


Pauline Wiles - 2018
    Indie With Ease demonstrates how a blend of clear purpose and steady pragmatism will enable you to thrive as an independent publisher. Through simple self-care techniques and a few mindset secrets, you’ll maximize motivation and minimize author anxiety.With a down-to-earth blend of inspiration and practical steps, you will:~ Know yourself and your unique writing style.~ Set authentic, long-term writing goals.~ Nurture your creativity and protect your well-being.~ Maximize your energy and work at a pace you can sustain.~ Limit your marketing to what really works.~ Prioritize key tasks and ignore distractions.~ Dodge the most common pitfalls for independent authors.For a little extra inspiration, you will also find:~ Contributions and advice from over a dozen experienced indie authors.~ Bonus resources: checklists, templates, and trackers to jump start your daily routine.Indie with Ease is your essential guide to well-being, productivity and serenity as an indie author.

Write Your Book in a Flash: The Paint-by-Numbers System to Write the Book of Your Dreams—FAST!


Dan Janal - 2018
     Most people dream of writing a book, but they get stopped in their tracks because of a fatal flaw. Without a clear system for writing a book, nothing gets finished. The secret to completing a book quickly is to have a system. Unlike books that show you why you should write a book, this book actually shows you how to write a book! You’ll discover: How to write a simple outline that makes the writing process faster and easier How to get stunning testimonials to help sell your book How to find and manage beta readers who will share honest feedback before the book is published How to research interesting ideas, stories, and facts so you never run out of ideas or information How to overcome “The Imposter Syndrome” and other limiting beliefs that stifle nearly every would-be author Clear examples that show you what to do (and what not to do) Empowering exercises that show you how to write better and faster Simple how-to steps anyone can follow to write a book You’re about to learn a simple and proven system for writing a book that matters. Even if you hated writing in the past, you’ll finally feel good about writing your book. Most importantly, you’ll have all the tools you need to get the job done! This is the perfect book to read if you are a thought leader, entrepreneur or business executive who wants to write a business book to build your personal brand, open doors to new opportunities, and leave a legacy of wisdom to future generations.Business leaders who write books get more clients at higher fees, have more impact, develop more credibility, and have more influence where it matters most: in front of clients, customers, and prospects. Unlike other books on writing, Write Your Book in a Flash doesn’t debate the pros and cons of self-publishing vs. traditional publishing. Instead, it shows how to use your own work style and personal strengths, preferences, and personality, so you can write the book you were meant to share with the world. Dan Janal has written more than a dozen books that help businesses build their brands, including seven books for publishing giant Wiley. He is an award-winning, daily newspaper reporter and business newspaper editor. As a publicity and marketing expert, he has helped more than ten thousand authors and experts build their platforms over the past sixteen years. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from Northwestern University’s famed Medill School of Journalism. Dan's journalism awards include the William Randolph Hearst Foundation's Award for Excellence in News Writing, the Florida National Education Association's Newsmaker Award for distinguished news coverage of public education in Florida, and the Greater Orlando Press Club's Investigative Reporting award.

The Practicing Poet: Writing Beyond the Basics


Diane Lockward - 2018
    

BadRedhead Media: How to Best Optimize Blog Posts for SEO: 25 Tested Tips Writers Need to Know Now


Rachel Thompson - 2018
    Containing a wealth of information, these tips will help you increase traffic to your site! Topics include: · SEO terms defined · Specific ways to increase traffic to your blog right now · How to optimize each post for maximum exposure on Google · Ways to connect with readers · How to integrate your blog posts on the various social media sites If SEO confuses you, this is a great beginner breakdown for any new blogger, writer, veteran author, and even small businesses. Buy your copy NOW and start increasing your visibility!

The Real CSI: A Forensic Handbook for Crime Writers


Kate Bendelow - 2018
    Using real-life examples and case studies, experienced CSI Kate Bendelow shines a light behind the yellow tape and debunks the myths popularized by the "CSI Effect." Each chapter explores the latest procedures in contemporary practice including: crime scene access and preservation; fingerprints and DNA profiling; footwear; trace evidence; fire scenes; drugs and toxicology; and, finally, firearms. Packed with insider knowledge, handy tips, and compelling storylines, this is the definitive guide for all crime writers who wish to write with authenticity and authority.

Writing a Novel: Bring Your Ideas To Life The Faber Academy Way


Richard Skinner - 2018
    Richard Skinner believes it is your duty as a novelist to bring your whole self to the page; to find your story, not force it; to meet your reader in a spirit of openness. In Writing a Novel he offers up frameworks, strategies and stimuli to help you meet that duty, drawingon his deep experience as one of the UK's leading creative writing teachers. He covers the essentials - narrators, character, setting - with charm and rigour. But Writing a Novel is not a set of instructions: it is a way of thinking, a conversation, a relationship in itself.

Copywriting Made Simple


Tom Albrighton - 2018
    It's about using words to reach people and change what they think, feel and do. This easy-to-read guide will teach you all the essentials of copywriting, from understanding products, readers and benefits to closing the sale.You'll learn how to... - Write clearly, simply and engagingly - Choose a killer headline and a strong structure- Use 20 proven strategies for creative copywriting- Harness the power of persuasion and psychology- Create a unique tone of voice for a brandIllustrated throughout and packed with real-life examples, Copywriting Made Simple is the perfect introduction to copywriting today."Tom's put a lifetime of learning into this book... an incredibly thorough briefing on copywriting." - Dave Trott, Creative legend, agency founder, author and teacher."Educational, entertaining and energetic... prepare to dig deep and enjoy!" - Katherine Wildman, Host, The Writing Desk.

Crafting Fiction Volume 1: Hard-Boiled Outlines: A Simple, Easy to Follow System to Outline and Write Your First Novel


William Miller - 2018
    I know it works because it is the exact method I used to write my first book, hit the best-seller list, and finally quit my soul-sucking day job!In Crafting Fiction Vol 1: Hard-Boiled Outlines, I'll teach you how to outline your novel before you begin writing to make sure your story keeps readers hooked from the opening page.This system works whether you write hard-boiled detective stories, horror, romance, or anything in between. No matter what genre you choose, Hard-boiled outlines will help you plot out your novel, eliminate the trouble spots, keep your writing on track, and publish a book that will leave readers begging for more.You'll learn:What Story Structure is, why readers crave it, and how you can use that to your advantage.Basic Plot Points Used by Hollywood to captivate audiences for Decades.How to Outline Your NovelHow to Avoid Stalling Out in the MiddleHow to Keep Readers Turning Pages Until the Very EndThe basic Beats of Story and How They Work Within the Framework of Any NovelHow To Create Characters that Readers Actually Care AboutNever get stuck again. Pick up a copy of Hard-Boiled Outlines and finally finish that novel!

Rapid Story Development #5: The Moral Premise-How to Build a Bulletproof Narrative Engine for Any Story


Jeff Lyons - 2018
    Screenwriters, novelists, short story writers—everyone—speaks about the importance of writing stories with a moral core, having characters who are flawed, creating heroes and heroines with relatable human foibles. But few if any of these experts talk about how to pull these things off in practice. The fact is, stories that lack a moral premise deliver flat, one dimensional, and passive characters—and dull stories. Learning how to create stories with a moral center is a critical story development skill every writer needs to master. "Rapid Story Development: The Moral Premise–How to Build a Bulletproof Narrative Engine for Any Story" is a speciality e-book by Jeff Lyons that addresses this all-too-important issue of the moral premise: how to find one, how to build one, and how to use one to drive the dramatic engine of any story. But more than some academic examination, this e-book actually demonstrates how to deliver on the page in any genre or literary format (novel, screenplay, etc.). If you want to write stories with dramatic engines that won’t quit, then you need this e-book.

Christian Writers Market Guide-2019 Edition


Steve Laube - 2018
    Wherever you are on the writing spectrum - from beginner to seasoned professional - the Guide will help you find what you are looking for. Over 1,000 listings including more than 200 book publishers, 150 periodical publishers, 40 agents, 200 freelance editors and designers, and much more.

The Writer's Lexicon Volume II: More Descriptions, Overused Words, and Taboos


Kathy Steinemann - 2018
    Maybe you're writing a sci-fi series or creative nonfiction novel. At the receiving end will be readers who demand clarity. If you confuse them, you lose them. Learn how to capture their attention and keep them engaged. Discover when to bend or break the so-called "rules" and motivate everyone to finish "just one more chapter." • Explore ways to create convincing dialogue without resorting to distracting dialect, pauses, or ill-placed exposition. • Conquer words and phrases that propagate like a virus. • Find answers to the following questions: - Is it ever alright to use "alright"? - What is the correct order for stacked modifiers? - Why should you avoid filter words? - How can you reduce word bloat? - Are adverbs really as villainous as many insist? - What about semicolons, present tense, and head-hopping? - What is contractionitis? How can it be cured? • Learn how to: - Minimize repetition of words such as "but" and "because." - Decrease reliance on crutch words. - Reduce word bloat. - Maximize action beats. This book is a must-have for all writers, from amateur to professional, fiction to nonfiction. Sprinkled throughout, you'll find exercises and examples with ideas for story prompts. Snap 'em up at will, and ... ... write on.

Soul Care When You're Weary (Embracing God, Exploring Creativity Book 1)


Edie Melson - 2018
     Edie Melson helps you find Soul Care solutions using devotions and prayers and opportunities for creative expression. She has learned that sensory involvement deepens our relationship with the Father and gives rest to our weary souls. She will teach you to tap into your creativity. Reconnect with God using your tactile creativity. Warning! This book may become dog-eared and stained. Draw in it. Experiment with your creative passions. Learn the healing power of play. Allow God’s power to flow through creativity. Soul Care When You’re Weary will become your heart treasure.

Demons & Thieves


Brae Wyckoff - 2018
    A man in search of his son. The Messiah fated to meet them both. Demons & Thieves is a fast-paced, riveting tale of demonic powers that bring destruction, of unconditional love that brings restoration, and of man's ultimate choice toward one or the other. In this brilliantly crafted historical novel, master storyteller, Brae Wyckoff, weaves together the account of the two thieves on the cross and the Gerasene demoniacs in an action-packed, epic adventure that progresses across a span of twenty years against the backdrop of ancient Israel.From the first page, Wyckoff captivates us with vivid characters brought to life as he carefully peels back layer upon layer to reveal raw emotion and the fragility of human existence. Readers will be deeply moved and completely enthralled by the two brothers caught in a cycle of loss and tragedy, the father racing against time to restore relationship, the loyal friend who will not walk away, and the Messiah who encounters each one.This hauntingly powerful novel will inspire readers to look deeper than what can be seen on the surface and to recognize that behind every person is a story that may surprise us. What influences one's behaviors and decisions? What determines one's destiny? For Nestor and Philos, Dismas and Gestas, the answers await in Demons & Thieves."I loved it so much I need to read it again." - Claudene "This is a movie in the making!" - Jan"Powerful! Well done, Brae Wyckoff!" - Sabrina

Authorpreneur: Build the Brand, Business, and Lifestyle You Deserve. It's Time to Write Your Book


Jesse Tevelow - 2018
     Jesse has self-published two books, which are both #1 bestsellers on track to generate $30,000 per year in passive income. Beyond book sales, Jesse has leveraged his books to build a business that earned over six figures in its first year. Other part-time authors are doing far better, earning six, or even seven figures per year. Many have leveraged their books to build multimillion-dollar business ventures. This wasn't possible ten years ago, but the publishing industry has changed. People are finding unparalleled freedom and wealth through writing, and you can too. Authorpreneur will show you how. Inside Authorpreneur, you’ll learn: Why writing a book is the new PhD How a book can make you rich, credible, and immortal The three critical traits to succeed as a writer Why everyone is a salesman The 50% Rule The three approaches to finding a marketable topic to write about How to find contractors for quality book production How to choose a title that doesn’t suck How to get reviews before launching When to launch, and what to do AFTER it’s over ...plus so much more. What are you waiting for? It’s time to write your book.

Story-Flash: Step-by-Step Technology of Plot Development (how to write a screenplay, screenwriting book, script writing, write a book, write suspense, ... story structure (Story-Flash System Book 1)


Alexander Astremsky - 2018
    He suggests you stop "waiting for inspiration" and use the Story-Flash step-by-step technology instead. He invites you to rev up “the engine of your imagination" so that you can come up with exciting stories and design them easily, professionally and without the “throes of creation.” The book includes such chapters as "Story Development," "Episode Plan," "Character Development," “How to Make the Story as Compelling as Possible,” “How to Develop a Great Comedy Plot,” etc. It includes over 60 various practical exercises, pictures and diagrams illustrating this step-by-step process. This book also includes the Story-Flash Game, which you can play by yourself or with others. It is not just an interesting and entertaining game, it is designed to boost your imagination with inspiration and break down the barriers in your mind that prevent you from creating brilliant stories with ease. Would you like to know how to write stories? How to write a screenplay? How to write a book? Story-Flash is a screenwriting book that will show you how to write well, how to write faster and easier.

The Elements of Style: Simplified and Illustrated for Busy People


William Strunk Jr. - 2018
    

How to Write Stunning Sentences: 100 Simple Exercises from Beloved Authors to Improve Your Sentence Writing Style


Nina Schuyler - 2018
    Writing. Composition. You've got a great story, but do you have great sentences? Stylish sentences have their own powerful energy that mesmerizes and even rearranges a reader's world. Think of this book as a private lesson with Nina Schuyler--award-winning author and professor of creative writing at the University of San Francisco--featuring guest appearances by the masters, including James Baldwin, Grace Paley, John Updike, Saul Bellow, and Toni Morrison. They've arrived to show you the mechanics of their magic. With 25 essays and over 100 writing prompts, HOW TO WRITE STUNNING SENTENCES is the best way to expand your writing style. "Nina Schuyler's HOW TO WRITE STUNNING SENTENCES is like a Kama Sutra for sentences: it describes the positions and passions of her artful love, and through sharp analyses and generous prompts suggests how you too, writer, may become such an artful lover...Read it and the pleasure will be yours."--Aaron Shurin "With its elegantly curated examples of stunning prose, HOW TO WRITE STUNNING SENTENCES offers luminous insight into the elements of language as they relate intimately to content. Reading this book can transform your awareness and your practice, line by line and page by page, with glorious results."--Elizabeth Rosner "Passionately intense and exquisitely precise, Nina Schuyler's brilliant readings of gorgeously disparate sentences by a wide spectrum of innovative writers illuminate the subversive pleasures of suspension and subordination, the joys of complexity and extravagance, and the potent, piercing delights of language distilled to spare perfection."--Melanie Rae Thon "In this wonderful book, Nina Schuyler not only explores how syntax and diction can embody the meaning of a sentence but also how they can enrich subtext and capture the sensibility of a character. The pleasure of looking so closely at the power and intricacy of sentences is present on every page and richly evident in the plentiful writing exercises that Schuyler provides. Each chapter has the potency of a daily meditation from which any writer would benefit."--Catherine Brady "Nina Schuyler is an alchemist of style, with a brilliant eye for the secret inner workings of language. This book is a treasure trove for anyone wishing to harness the power of rhythm and syntax, meaning and music, in their own sentences or in the ones they read. This book is a fantastic contribution to the literature of craft."--Carolina de Robertis

21 Insights for 21st Century Creatives


Mark McGuinness - 2018
     In this book he shares 21 of the most powerful insights that have emerged from coaching conversations with hundreds of creatives - as well as from his own practice as an award-winning poet. Whether you are a fine artist, a performer or entertainer, a commercial creative, or a creative entrepreneur, many of your biggest challenges are the ones that are familiar to all creative professionals: * Finding—and staying true to—your deepest sources of inspiration * Carving out time to produce great work amid the demands and distractions of 21st century life * Balancing creativity, money, and your professional ambitions * Giving yourself a break from the relentless perfectionism of your Inner Critic * Creating your own security in an uncertain world * Believing in your vision when people around you just don’t get it * Deciding whether to approach publishers, record companies or other middlemen, or to “go direct” to your audience * Attracting an audience from scratch, or breaking into a tightly networked industry as an outsider * Dealing with rejection, criticism, and plain unvarnished failure * Dealing with fear and anxiety—about your work, about your audience, about the critics, about failure, and even about success Perhaps the biggest challenge faced by a 21st century creator is the one it’s easiest to overlook when you’re preoccupied with the demands of the day:  How can you chart your course and make meaningful progress when you set out on an original path, where there is no conventional career ladder, no job security, and the usual rules don’t apply? This book tackles these challenges head on, and it provides answers you won’t find in books of traditional career advice: 1. Everything is powered by love 2. Reach for the stars 3. Something old, something new 4. Your creativity is your security 5. Forget the career ladder—start creating assets 6. Personal development is professional development (and vice versa) 7. Your struggle is a clue to your superpower 8. There are four types of work (and one matters more than the others) 9. Desire beats discipline 10. Your motivations are always mixed 11. Play the game you want to play 12. Pick two out of money, fame and artistic reputation 13. Find your medium, choose your media 14. Stay small, go global 15. Learn from the best in the world 16. Don’t let the crappy part put you off 17. Be thankful for your Inner Critic 18. Hustling is part of your job 19. Stop trying to earn money—start creating value 20. You can have all the excuses you want 21. Courage may be the missing ingredient Mark has deliberately kept this book short, so that you can burn through it in one sitting for a burst of inspiration. Or keep it handy on your phone and consult it in the quiet moments of your day, or on those days when you need to dig deep for motivation.

The Shell Game: Writers Play with Borrowed Forms


Kim Adrian - 2018
    Like their zoological namesake, these essays do not simply wear their borrowed “shells” but inhabit them so perfectly that the borrowed structures are wholly integral rather than contrived, both shaping the work and illuminating and exemplifying its subject.The Shell Game contains a carefully chosen selection of beautifully written, thought-provoking hybrid essays tackling a broad range of subjects, including the secrets of the human genome, the intractable pain of growing up black in America, and the gorgeous glow residing at the edges of the autism spectrum. Surprising, delightful, and lyric, these essays are destined to become classics of this new and increasingly popular hybrid form.

Self and I: A Memoir of Literary Ambition


Matthew De Abaitua - 2018
    Matthew De Abaitua, fresh out of university, is being interviewed for a job. The interview involves discussing literature, honking on a special cigarette and shooting at empty whisky bottles with an air rifle. The job in question is that of amanuensis, or live-in personal assistant. The employer is Will Self, the enfant terrible of the literary scene.For the next six months, De Abaitua and Self share a remote cottage in Suffolk, working on their literary ambitions. They are distracted by hikes to Sizewell nuclear power station, opium tea and the allure of Soho. Thanks to Self and his library of bad influences, from JG Ballard to William Burroughs, De Abaitua undergoes a rite of passage that changes him forever.Caught up in vital threads of the early Nineties, from the rise of New Labour to the slow decline of the literary establishment and the emergence of the internet, Self & I is set in a time that burns brightest in its final hour. It is a frank and very funny account of a young, hopeful writer who finds himself alongside one of his heroes only to discover that literary ambition comes at a price.

Writing Military Science Fiction: Infantry


William S. Frisbee Jr. - 2018
     A crucial reference for writers of military science fiction and a priceless resource for other writers. What goes on during a firefight? What does a Staff Sergeant do? A Corporal? A Lieutenant?  A Captain? How big is a company? How far can troops march in a day? What are the mechanics of an orbital assault drop? Why aren’t all soldiers equipped with machine guns? How many Marines are in a squad and what are their jobs? What is the French Foreign Legion equivalent of a sergeant? What does adrenaline do to a human body? This book also covers things like types of armor, weapons, biotechnology, cybernetics, psionics and so much more.   Over 250 pages of crucial knowledge and numerous links to more detailed information. With some information from www.MilSF.com it contains a very significant amount of new information and updated sections. This guide can help answer questions you didn’t even know you had.