Writer's Market 2016 - The Ultimate Guide to Publication!

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Hi peeps! Yesterday, I bought my first Writer's Market, deluxe edition! I am super excited for the amazing information within its pages. I intend to read it front to back and take in all the great resources and advice I can find. Anyone serious about publishing their work, be it articles for trade magazines, poetry, children's books, graphic novels, short story anthologies, nonfiction and fiction works alike, the Writer's Market has it all! There is even a nifty section with fresh listings on contests and awards of which you can enter.

The book begins with a letter from the editor, Robert Lee Brewer, and some very interesting and useful guidelines on how to properly use the Writer's Market. I suggest reading this before diving in. After that, you can thumb through at your leisure and see what catches your fancy, from literary agents looking for new talent to publishers who accept unsolicited manuscripts. I must say I have sold myself short over the years not looking into this golden gem sooner. 

The 2016 Writer's Market is in stores now at fine retailers like Barnes and Noble where I picked mine up. It can be pre-ordered for possibly less online as well (but beware of those tacked on shipping fees). With tax it ran me about $53 but the investment was well worth it. I intend on using every available resource this puppy has to offer. With this year's edition, you also get access for a whole year to their frequently updated database at writersmarket.com. You might also want to check out the Writer's Market Guide to Getting Published which serves as an additional companion to the official Writer's Market.

I am very much looking forward to sharing some exciting new news with you soon as I embark on my journey to publication!

Till next time. 

LOL...How Funny are You?

Today, I want to talk about a particularly funny topic: humorous writing. Yes, it’s a thing and yes, it deserves all the respect of other types of professions. After all, who can’t use a good laugh from time to time? In fact, some of the most unforgettable ads and forms are copy are the ones that make us double over with delirious laughter. So the burning question is: how does one achieve it and is it something you can do?

It sure is! (Those with only “how did the chicken cross the road” jokes need not apply.) The key to truly maintaining success when writing a humorous piece is originality. If you don’t have that, well… [insert cricket sound here]. You get the point. So if you are concerned about it and want to add some LOLs or at the very least smiles to your copy, read on to see how it’s done.

I should just point out right now that I come from a long line of goofballs, therefore it’s kind of in my genes to be a goof. If you don’t score so high on the laugh-o-meter, not to worry! Humor comes in many forms, my friend.

Sarcasm

The dark comedy of the written language can often be attributed to some perfectly placed sarcasm. The beauty of sarcasm is you don’t have to throw buckets of it at your audience. A sliver of sarcasm here, a helping of irony there, a hint at mockery elsewhere and voila! You have yourself copy that’s been nicely spiced up with edge and yes even a laugh or two.

Puns

Word play at its finest is best found in a pun that leaves your audience still thinking about it long after they've read it. Suggesting two or more meanings, by spring boarding off words with multiple meanings is a common way to add in a good pun. Alliteration is sometimes added with a good pun as well, often for extra humor. The best thing about a pun is it can quickly spice up your copy and generate a good laugh almost immediately. Not to mention they are often downright clever and often very much appreciated.

Slapstick

Cheap shots and SNL style skit references are fair game here. This style of humor works best in story mode copy. Telling a tale that’s worth a few extra laughs? Slap-stick is excellent for this and it’s easier to achieve than you may think. The best thing about slap-stick is there really is no right or wrong. Bumbling foolishness and epic fails are all a part of life, right?

Niche

Downright quirky and completely niche humor is not an easy thing to accomplish, I won’t lie. A few years back, I covered a travel column piece on the summer festivities at Disney World. It just so happened Epcot had a summer Flower Garden festival occurring during the Star Wars weekends. If you are catering to a group of Star-Wars enthusiasts who also happen to love gardening, you better come up with more than just a blip about greenery and "may the force be with you." Let’s just say creativity knows no bounds with niche-based humor. By the time I was done Darth Vader and flowers sounded like a rosy pair—puns very much intended! It was challenging but rewarding. The best thing about niche humor is that it is literally one of a kind, so you have more freedom to think outside the box and have fun with it.

Big Reads in a Small Town – The Minneola Schoolhouse Library

Earlier this week, I took some time to visit my neighborhood library, which is literally within walking distance from my home. The Minneola Schoolhouse Library is a wonderful landmark here in beautiful Lake County, Florida. Housed in a building that was built in the late 1800s, one cannot miss the timeless nostalgia of this old town monument. This historic property was originally a schoolhouse with two classrooms and a bell tower. Inside, you will find beautiful wood finished floors and original pictures of the schoolhouse from over 100 years ago.

In 1915, Lake County merged schools and eventually built a larger new elementary school in Clermont.  Minneola's original schoolhouse was then closed down and it was later converted into a private residence. The homeowners decided to make some additions to the building, including adding on an enclosed porch, a living space and kitchen. Some of these features were later removed to return the building back to its original appearance. 
 

 
Today, the public library offers a wonderful space where patrons can literally step back into the past and enjoy a piece of history alongside a good book. There is a full section solely devoted to children’s books, five fully equipped computer stations and free Wi-Fi available for the tech savvy visitors. I have spent many a mornings at the lovely Minneola Schoolhouse Library. If you are ever in the neighborhood, check out the Minneola Schoolhouse Library and their friendly staff.


The library has a Friends Group, Front Porch Book Club, frequent Family Story Times, and other wonderful seasonal events and happenings throughout the year. Also check out their lovely outside gated garden with additional shaded seating. Another favorite place of mine to enjoy a good book or work on writing mine!

 

 

 

How Long is Too Long to be Working on Your Novel?

You're writing a novel. You've had the idea for some time now, maybe even let it stew for a little while before finally putting pen to paper. But now that you've started, it's taking you far longer than you planned. Does this sound like you? If so, you are not alone. At some point, I'm sure we've all wondered how long it should take a writer to finish a novel. I have heard that on average, the typical first time novelist takes anywhere from 2-5 years to complete a full length book. Of course there's going to be some give or take here.

So how long is too long?

I have been asked in the past how long it takes to write a novel and while I am a writer I cannot answer that fairly yet because I am still working on my first novel! A brief bit about my own experience...my story idea came to me in 2002. I worked on it part-time for 3 years, stopped completely for 3 more years and then picked it back up for another year, only to change the entire concept.

Fast forward 4 more years and a college degree later, my writing style had changed so much, I decided to start the entire project over. Today, I'm 3/4 of the way done and steadily moving. If you count the restart, I'd say I'm right around the 2 year mark. Will this be typical? I hope not! Did this help you in anyway to better understand your own writing timeline? Doubtful! This goes to show that everyone's pace is different. While there really is no definitive timeframe out there for completing a novel, fortunately there are ways to keep yourself moving at all times, instead of wondering why you are stuck in second gear!

Choose a Target Size for Your Novel

Many of us may not know how long our novel is going to be but the sooner you get an idea of it, the easier it will be to realistically pace yourself! In my case I knew my story was going to be epically long. Knowing this early on has helped me get a better handle on what to expect.

Novels typically range from between 50,000 and 100,000 words, dependent upon a whole plethora of variables (like genre, typesetting, book type, etc.). For mass-market paperbacks, 50,000 words will land you at about 200 pages, while 75,000 words are at about 300 pages. And we've all seen those massive door-stopper books that double as lovely paperweights. :)

Stay Focused

It sounds like a no-brainer but let me tell you, it is anything but! There are too many other elements in life that want to get in the way and destroy your pacing plan! Online, there are a dime a dozen of "quick writing courses" and "draft helper" tools designed to get you writing your full length novel in as little as 30 days. I say don't worry so much about being prolific to start--worry about writing, period.

Pace Yourself...Realistically

Only YOU know what will work best for you and the only way to discover this is to pace yourself realistically. If you are busy and can only drill out work for 30 minutes a day, do it. Work on it every day and devote a space of time only for your writing. Make it a habit and stick to it. Do what works and is attainable. Nothing will stop you quicker than setting a goal that you cannot keep up with.

Understand that "Prep and Pause" is Okay!

Writing a book entails a lot and there is far more to it than just writing the words! What about brainstorming, plot development and planning, character fleshing, and downright research? All that takes time and you know what? It's totally okay. I like to call these things "prep and pause" moments: Moments when I STOP writing and focus on what makes the writing work in the first place. These things are important and should be given time just like your actual writing. (And don't get me started on editing).

Even if you are staring at the wall, thinking about how to best kill off that final main villain, you are working. It's part of your creative process and it should not be cut out or rushed along. Prized bestselling author of The Hunger Games novels, Suzanne Collins once said: "Some days all I do is stare at the wall. That can be productive, too, if you’re working out character and plot problems."

The Takeaway

Whether you write 10 minutes a day or 8 hours a day, write slow and steadily or fast and furiously, keep chipping away at it. Keep moving and stay mindful of your progress. Eventually, you will have perfectly sculptured masterpiece you so desire.

Contract Writing vs. Freelance Writing

So, I'm doing a lot more freelance writing these days than contract writing and while both things are writing jobs, it seems that a lot of folks might not realize the difference between the two. The thing about writing is that it is quite a versatile beast. Dependent upon what you write about and how often you desire to write, one is likely to work better for you than the other.

So what is the difference? While either type can be full-time or part-time work, the real difference is in where you work and for how long.

Contract Writing

Typically, contract writing is when you work with a company but you are not a part of their formal staff. Oftentimes, you might work physically within their office as an independent contractor (1099) and you may be paid on an hourly basis or salaried. These jobs are often for a specified length of time (3-month, 6-month, and 1-year are common ones) and it is often project-driven. If you finish the project within a specified time, your contract may end. If not, it may be extended. Hours may or may not be flexible and the pay is often higher because it is a contract position.

A few years back, I took a contract writing position for a large law full-service law firm and my workload was solely project-driven within a 6-month period. I also received an extension. When the work was completed, my contract ended. Contract positions are a great way to build your portfolio while gaining valuable in-house work experience.

Freelance Writing

For freelancers, the location of the job is the biggest difference. Just like contract writing, you are considered an independent contractor (1099) and you work for yourself, but oftentimes you will provide your writing services under more flexible terms. These jobs may be paid hourly but are more often paid by the project. Work may be for a specified length of time but a project with proposed deadlines is more common. Projects may be large or small.

Unlike most contract work, your services as a freelance writer may be utilized by a client over a longer period of time. Dependent on the relationship you build with your client(s), you may work on a variety of projects and with a variety of folks--be them companies, media liaisons, marketing firms, ad agencies, creative departments, etc.

Freelancers not only tend to work on their own terms, they also often work on their own turf, which means you are likely working right from home or remotely. In the last year, I have taken on several freelance gigs and enjoyed the freedom of managing my own schedule and working with a variety of great folks (lovely clients). With this freedom however, comes the responsibility of needing to stay proactive and focused. Freelance work is a great way to build your portfolio, network with others and build strong references for future work!

The Bottom Line

Yes, there is a difference! Writing come in many sizes, shapes and forms! Now it's up to you to distinguish and conquer! No matter what path you take in your writing career, know that there are endless opportunities out there. Make sure you explore several avenues, try things out, be open minded, and find what works best for you. Nothing is more rewarding than discovering what you love and do best, then going out and doing just that!

Are Job Bidding Sites Really Worth It?

Freelance writers want to make money. We want that next big assignment, awesome client or well-paying gig. It's what we do! So you may have heard of bidding sites like Upwork (formerly Elance), Odesk, and other online freelance marketplaces. All of these sound like great resources, but is it really the best path?

As a freelance writer, I've done a lot and learned a lot over the years. From content mills, to independent service want ads, outsourcing, contract agreements, freelance gigs, copywriting work, and bidding, it seems I've done it all. Bid sites were particularly sticky for me. For writers who want to build a solid portfolio, further their career, and make serious money, I would not recommend it.

What are Job Bidding Sites?

If you step back and take a closer look, you'll notice that firms like media companies, ad agencies, and in-house agencies are not particularly posting jobs on these sites. Most of the folks on there are typically looking for the best copywriter at the cheapest rate. Add the fact that other writers are on there competing for that job and it's a recipe for disaster. 

Oftentimes, you have to lower your rates just to beat the next guy. Even then you may not even get the bid! Plus you've spent valuable time proposing your services to a job you may or may not get. Also, let us not forget that many of these sites may charge a "quote fee"  or "transaction fee" if you do get the job. Elance charges over 8% of your agreed upon fee payment.

Now What?

In my opinion it is best to market and promote yourself directly to prospective clients who are looking for quality copy, and are willing to pay you what it is worth. You don't want to market yourself to someone who is looking to get cheap copy for a cheap price. Now, not all clients on these sites may be doing this, but many people want that "best deal" and unfortunately that means other standards may have to be lowered, including how much money YOU make!

5 Types of Writers. Which are You?

It's one thing to tell a person that you are a writer. But what about the kind of writer you are? I decided to do a little digging around and see what types of writers I could find out there. I've come up with the following five categories below. Most of the writers I came across seemed to fit into one of these categories or a combination of two or more. Here's a fun list of what I found out:

Type #1: The Literary Devotee:

This type of writer is the closest thing to a "born writer," leaving their mark as the most quintessential of writers. These folks tend to be very creative and imaginative, blending art and literature into one. These types of writers tend to primarily gravitate toward fiction writing. They are able to build worlds in their mind and an uncanny talent to breathe life into their characters with relative ease. They often work alone and are very possessive of their work. 

Type #2: The Entrepreneur:

This type of writer is extremely business minded. In fact, they view writing, all the way down to the physical act, as a necessary means to a greater end. These individuals tend to be very driven and straightforward, and analytical, often gravitating toward PR or Marketing with their savvy communication know-how. They also tend to be good critics and may be more prolific then their Literary Devotee counterpart. They are easily fascinated and have an innate desire to achieve. Writing is seen as a useful tool in the creation of projects--which Entrepreneurs do very well.

Type #3: The Eccentric:

These types of writers tend to be solitary and produce that more cutting edge, outside-the-box type works. They tend to be deep thinkers and have a unique and often memorable style that sets them apart from others and they tend to make a significant impact on others with their writing. These individuals tend to gravitate toward and epic stories, memoirs, or poetry, sharing their profound insights that challenge and stimulate readers.

Type #4: The Avenger:

Messages for the masses and delivering the truth to the people—that is the main objective of the avenger. Whether its an advocacy campaign, a call to action or an exposé, these writers are reporters of the trade. They tend to be opinionated and passionate, yet concise. These types of writes tend to gravitate toward journalism and newsworthy content. They thrive on energy and are often driven to share their reach out to people.

Type #5: The Optimist:

This type of writer is the one who has the gift of gab. They can word things just right and have a sort of "writing charisma" about them. These types of writers tend to gravitate toward non-fiction, educational content, or inspirational pieces designed to engage the reader. Their ability to pursue an audience is similar to the Entrepreneur and their message resonates well with the masses. These writers make great public speakers, social net-workers or life coaches.

Most days, I would consider myself a Literary Devotee because I am very creative and imaginative. Other days I feel more like an Eccentric, seeking to share my wisdom with others in an ekphrastic way. With writing, there are definitely plenty of avenues to travel down!

Which road(s) are yours?

Back to School... Yes Please!

For some, it has already started. For others, it's not for another week or so. However for me, today was the first day back to school for my daughter Amber! She was excited but I was ecstatic! As a writer, time alone to get work done is so important! And now I get to partake in the joys of quiet and uninterrupted time once again. Thank you Jesus! Not that I did not enjoy every moment of summertime with my young one but ahh.... do you hear that?

(insert long pause here)

Exactly! Enjoy the silence! Of course that doesn't mean I won't be blaring some of that Depeche Mode or Foster the People or Aretha Franklin or Luke Bryan as I write on (I enjoy a wide variety of music). For all my parents out there who have passed GO, collected $200 and sent their precious bundle(s) of joy off to school, give a shout out! 

I love to think of back-to-school time as a time to start a few new things of my own. I reflect on the year thus far, and bring things into perspective moving forward. It gives me some much needed clarity of mind before we get lost in the whirlwind of the holidays and end of year hurrahs. One of the things I like to do is make some writing goals for myself.

My writing goals for this fall are:

• Finish my current fiction novel and begin the submission process.
• Attend at least two writer's conferences.
• Organize my stockpile of poetry (wouldn't mind submitting that either :P).
• Networking with more great authors and writers. (I have met so many talented and wonderful folks so far!).

 If you have any new writing goals of your own, share below!