Straight talk from the sisters about blood, sweat and ink
Sometimes when I’m reading a book, a scene takes me right out of the story because I don’t “buy” it. It’s not that what is taking place is completely implausible, it’s that the writer has not convinced me of its truth. I have faith that a skilled writer can make a reader believe anything. The …
Continue reading “Reading for Writers 101: Resolving a Disconnect Between Show & Tell”
If we were having coffee I would offer you the best chair in my house. That’s the armchair facing the fireplace. Then I would bring out a large platter of thickly sliced homemade pumpkin bread with real butter. And pour you a jumbo sized steaming cup of something yummy. After you settled in, I would …
Continue reading “Weekend Coffee Share: Pre NaNoWriMo Edition”
I’ve just signed up for NaNoWriMo for the first time EVER. Here’s proof: As a hardcore plotter, I’ve never felt ready to participate. I can’t even fathom writing 50,000 words of prose without a solid outline. Plus, I’m not a fast writer. My inner editor and I are a team, not enemies, and I like …
Continue reading “A Slow Writer’s Scheme to Win #NaNoWriMo”
The fish-out-of-water character is one of my favorites. It is remarkably versatile and there are so many story situations it works perfectly for (18 according to TV Tropes). I’m currently writing a fish-out-of-water character, which should not be confused with using a fish-out-of-water plot device. A fish-out-of-water character adds comedy, or gives depth and diversity …
Continue reading “Writing Fish-Out-of-Water Characters”
I confess I’m having trouble with my Act I. This is unusual for me. Typically I find setting up the story the easy part compared to Act II & III. So what’s wrong? After picking my first half dozen scenes apart and rewriting them multiple times, the problem finally became clear: The Inciting Incident lacks …
Continue reading “The Inciting Incident: Problem vs Opportunity”
We are nearing the end of Hispanic Heritage Month, and one of the things I put on my 2015 goals list was to support the creation of quality Latin American characters. Today, I’m tackling three common stereotypes and misconceptions. [important]I am of Cuban, Puerto Rican, Mexican, Venezuelan and Canary Island decent. I have indigenous ancestors …
Continue reading “Writing Diverse Characters & Stereotypes”
It’s Archive Revive Day! I’m swamped with gymnastics coach training this month, so this re-post is appropriate… Originally posted on Feb. 10, 2014. Updated Oct. 5, 2015 I had two childhood dreams – be a novelist and be a gymnast. I was a strange juxtaposition of sedentary nerd kid lying on the couch reading for …
Continue reading “What Gymnastics Taught Me About Writing”
This is Banned Books Week, a time we celebrate and remember all the wonderful books that have been challenged for their content. I think it’s clear we are making progress in some areas. However, there are still many grassroots movements looking to suppress and restrict public access to certain kinds of books. And I fear …
Continue reading “Banned Books Week & Diversity”
I began the “Reading For Writers 101” blog series (for a full summary of posts, click here) because I believe writers can learn so much from reading books. Well, the same goes for watching television shows or films. Hence, a new series: Welcome! Today we’re going to learn how to effectively use flash forwards. A …
Continue reading “Watching for Writers 101: Flash Forwards”
Today’s Guest Post is by Rose B. Fischer. We first met Rose about a year ago and were instantly impressed with her creativity and willingness to lend a hand to her fellow writers and bloggers. Her kindness is teamed with a great sense of humor, making her a delightful person to know and a fun …
Continue reading “How Local Culture Inspires Worldbuilding”