Podcasts

Here are some podcasts of interest to children's writers. 

https://writersrumpus.com/2019/11/05/a-plethora-of-podcasts/

Self Editing

Here are sixteen tips for effectively editing your own manuscript. 

https://killzoneblog.com/2019/10/16-concrete-tips-for-effectively-editing-your-own-fiction.html

Author Visit Benefits

A school superintendent lays out the many benefits of having an author visit a school.

http://schoolvisitexperts.com/author-visit-benefits-a-superintendent-weighs-in/

Loglines

When an agent or editor asks you what your book is about, you need to be able to provide a short, simple answer. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/10/creating-a-multi-use-logline/

Cover Reveals

What is a cover reveal and how to you arrange one to your book's best advantage? 

https://insights.bookbub.com/cover-reveal-checklist/

Characterization vs. Character

For your readers to truly understand your characters, you need to provide more than their characterization or the surface details. 

https://www.septembercfawkes.com/2019/10/never-confuse-characterization-for.html

Writing Conferences

If, like many authors, you're an introvert, here are some hints to surving a writing conference.

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/10/an-introverts-guide-to-writers.html

Spaghetti Agents

You want to avoid an agent who will submit your work everywhere, as opposed to carefully making a submission list, and hopes that it will stick somewhere. 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2011/04/spaghetti-agents

Character Motivation

A strong motive for your character's actions will keep your readers turning the page. 

https://authorkristenlamb.com/2019/09/motive-stories-readers/

Middle-grade Marketing

Middle-grade authors provide marketing tips that worked for their novels.

http://scbwi.blogspot.com/2019/10/author-tested-middle-grade-marketing.html

Expository Nonfiction

An irresistible hook helps make expository nonfiction sing.

http://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2019/09/writing-expository-nonfiction-that_30.html

How Authors Make Money

How books advances, royalties, subrights, and more provide income to an author.

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/07/how-authors-make-money

Critique Groups

The positives and negatives of being in a critique group.

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/09/up-and-down-sides-of-critique-groups/

Theme

Your story's theme is different than its plot. 

https://blog.reedsy.com/what-is-the-theme-of-a-book/

Critique Steps

To provide a thorough critique, there are many items you need to consider. 

https://www.soaring20spb.com/blog/2019/9/9/eight-steps-to-a-thorough-critique?sfns=mo

Picture Book Basics

From how many pages to text vs. illustration, here are some basics you need to know when writing a picture book. 

https://www.wordsandpics.org/2013/07/picture-book-basics-understanding-format.html

Pacing

Pacing moves your story along at the right rate for what is happening. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/writing-articles/by-writing-goal/improve-my-writing/7-tools-for-pacing-a-novel-keeping-your-story-moving-at-the-right-pace

Flat Characters

Here are some reasons your readers may find your characters flat. 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/09/7-reasons-your-characters-feel-flat

Preorders

Why are preorders important for the future sales and marketing of a book.

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/08/06/why-preorders-matter/

Simple Tweaks

Here are three simple tweaks to make your manuscript stronger.

http://annkroeker.com/2018/08/28/ep-167-how-to-be-a-better-writer-3-simple-tweaks-you-can-try-today/

Word Choices

One of the joys of writing is being able to choose the perfect word. 

https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/7837/guest-post-leslie-helakoski-and-darcy-pattison-word-choices-writing-picture-books-that-soar/

Bookending Your Writing

Why is it so satisfying when your ending echoes, or bookends, your opening? 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/08/circle-your-writing-with-bookends.html

Choosing a POV

There is no best point of view, rather the best one to to tell your story. 

https://authorkristenlamb.com/2015/06/choosing-a-p-o-v-what-is-best-for-your-story-structure-part-9/

Traditional Publishing

Here are some of the realities for most authors of traditional publishing.

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/08/how-i-stay-grounded-7-realities-of.html

Researching

Whether you write fiction or nonfiction, research often needs to be a part of your writing process. 

https://zoemmccarthy.com/writing/13-suggestions-for-when-and-what-to-research-for-your-story

Cutting Words

It's not always easy to trim your words, but here are some hints to help you cut out the fat in your manuscript. 

https://byomentor.com/2019/08/05/cutting-words/

Writers' Organizations

How do you find the writers' organization that will help you bring your work to the next level? 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/08/finding-the-right-writer-organization/

Picture Books and Older Students

How can you best incorporate picture books into your middle school (or older!) classroom? 

https://pernillesripp.com/2018/06/15/using-picture-books-with-older-students-a-how-to-guide/?sfns=mo

Query Format

What does and doesn't go in your query letter? 

http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2019/07/do-all-yall-need-refresher-course-on.html

Query Formats

Here's a simple of the do's and don'ts of formatting your query. 

http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2019/07/do-all-yall-need-refresher-course-on.html

Picture Book Biographies

Here are some things to consider before writing a picture book biography. 

https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/13779/10-things-to-consider-when-writing-a-picture-book-biography/

Website Protection

If you have hired someone else to do your website, there are some due diligence steps you should take. 

https://www.thebookdesigner.com/2019/07/is-your-website-protected-better-yet-are-you/

Long Sentences

When writing colloquially, you'll want to avoid long, complicated sentences. 

https://kidlit.com/2019/07/01/avoid-long-sentences-in-colloquial-writing/

Press Releases

Here are some common mistakes authors make when putting out a press release. 

https://nonfictionauthorsassociation.com/9-most-frequent-mistakes-in-author-press-releases-by-joan-stewart/

Cliffhangers

How do you write those scenes that make your reader have to turn the page to find out what happens next?

https://annerallen.com/2019/08/7-rules-cliffhanger/

Target Audience

What does an agent mean when she asked you to include your target audience in a query? 

http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2019/10/what-is-target-audience.html

Writing Sounds

We all know our writing should include all five senses, and here are some suggestions as to how to add sound. 

https://zoemmccarthy.com/writing/adding-sounds-to-scenes-is-a-sound-practice

Prepublished Author Websites

What should you include on your author website before you get an agent or book contract?

http://www.publishingcrawl.com/2019/10/15/building-an-author-website-before-the-agent-and-the-book/

Story Ideas

How do you choose which of the many story ideas in your head that you should write about? 

https://mythicscribes.com/inspiration/choosing-right-idea/

Deep POV

Using deep point of view will bring your readers along on your characters' emotional journey.

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/10/4-pro-tips-for-writing-the-emotional-journey-in-deep-point-of-view/

Making Characters Sympathetic

Your readers will identify more with your characters if you make them more sympathetic, even if they're villains. 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/10/5-ways-to-make-a-character-more-sympathetic

Follow Through

If you have a person or object at the beginning of your book, you need to follow through and have something happen to/with them. 

https://annerallen.com/2019/10/chekhovs-gun/

Brand Names

Is it okay to use a brand name in your story or do you need to get permission? 

http://www.rightsofwriters.com/2010/12/can-i-mention-brand-name-products-in-my.html

Book Marketing Ideas

Have you thought about all of these online and offline book marketing ideas? 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/09/book-marketing-ideas

Pseudo Narratives

Fact-based books can resemble a narrative when the information is reported by a fictional narrator, such as an animal or inanimate object or a person other than the author.

http://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2019/09/whats-pseudo-narrative.html

Benefits of Author Visits

Author visits are more than just a fun time for students. 

https://www.jandersoncoats.com/author-visits/benefits-of-author-visits/

Picture Book Rules

There are many rules about writing picture books, but sometimes they're broken.

https://henryherz.wordpress.com/2014/12/14/the-ten-commandments-of-picture-book-writing/

Theme

We've all heard the term "theme," but what does it really mean. 

https://blog.reedsy.com/what-is-the-theme-of-a-book/

Pacing

These seven tricks will help you master the pacing of your story. 

https://writersedit.com/fiction-writing/7-quick-tips-for-mastering-pacing-in-your-story/

Manuscript Checklist

Here are some last minute items to check before submitting or handing in that manuscript.

https://zoemmccarthy.com/writing/10-item-manuscript-checklist-when-youre-under-a-deadline

Novelty Books

Everything you wanted to know about writing a novelty book and getting it published. 

https://taralazar.com/2019/09/09/novelty-book-primer-salina-yoon/

Agent Pitches

Here are some tips to make the  most of your agent pitch session. 

https://annerallen.com/2019/09/agent-pitch-session-not-screw-up/

Picture Book Publishers

You can submit your picture book manuscript to these publishers without having an agent. 

https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/2019/03/24-publishers-accepting-picture-books.html

Worksheets for Writers

Here's a great collection of links to worksheets that are helpful to writers. 

https://jamigold.com/for-writers/worksheets-for-writers/

Characters with Mental Illness

Here are some do's and don'ts about including a character with mental illness in your fiction. 

http://booksbywomen.org/dos-and-donts-of-including-mental-illness-in-your-fiction-by-elena-mikalsen-ph-d/

Finding the Right Agent

The right agent is the one that's right for you and your writing. 

http://scotteagan.blogspot.com/2019/09/finding-right-agent.html

Literary Devices

Here are ten literary devices that will enhance your writing. 

https://www.insecurewriterssupportgroup.com/2019/08/if-your-only-going-to-master-10.html

Cover Reveals

Part of your social media strategy is where and when to reveal your book cover. 

http://authornews.penguinrandomhouse.com/the-art-of-the-cover-reveal/

Character Goals

How do you show your reader what your character wants? 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/writing-better-character-goals/#

Researching Settings

Whether you write fiction or nonfiction, it's important you get the details of your setting correct. 

http://smack-dab-in-the-middle.blogspot.com/2019/08/by-charlotte-bennardo-when-setting.html

Mental Illness in Novels

Here are some do's and don'ts to think about if you're considering including a character in your story who has a mental illness. 

http://booksbywomen.org/dos-and-donts-of-including-mental-illness-in-your-fiction-by-elena-mikalsen-ph-d/

Planning Your Story

One approach to planning your story is to start at the end/goal and work backwards. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/09/using-backward-design-to-plan-your-story/

Agent's Vision for Your Work

It's important that you and your agent share the same for your work and your career. 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/09/03/understanding-an-agents-vision-for-your-work/

Author Visits

There are many ways for schools to afford to pay for an author visit. 

https://www.annettewhipple.com/2019/06/how-to-pay-for-author-visit.html?sfns=mo

Bad Critique Groups

Critique groups are wonderful for getting feedback on your work, but you want to avoid ones that hold back your writing.

https://annerallen.com/2019/09/critique-groups-can-drive-you-bonkers/

NaNoWriMo

It's about time for NaNoWriMo--National Novel Writing Month--and here are some tips to get you started. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/10/10-tips-to-rock-nanowrimo/

Funny Picture Books

Kids love reading funny books, and here are some ways to make your picture book a laugh outloud one.

https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/11337/guest-post-emily-jenkins-3-tips-for-writing-funny-picture-books/

Picture Book Topics to Avoid

There are some topics that have been overdone in picture books, but publishers are always looking for a fresh take on them. 

http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/3705/leslie-helakoski-and-darcy-pattison-9-picture-book-topics-to-avoid/

Building a Scene

How to build a scene from the ground up, brick by brick. 

https://byomentor.com/2019/07/01/brick-by-brick-how-to-build-a-scene-from-the-ground-up/

Nonfiction Outlines

When you submit a nonfiction proposal, they'll ask for an outline, too. 

https://www.nonfiction-ninjas.com/blog/benefits-of-outlining-by-nancy-i-sanders?sfns=mo

Evaluating Feedback

Here are some tips on how to deal with critical feedback you receive about your work. 

https://writeforkids.org/blog/2019/08/how-to-deal-with-critical-feedback-on-your-work/?sfns=mo

Book Titles

Here are some hints on how to create a compelling book title. 

https://rachellegardner.com/create-a-compelling-book-title/

Offer of Representation

An agent has made an offer of representation--hooray--but now what? 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/08/27/offer-of-representation/

Small Publishers

Here are some ways to evaluate a small publisher. 

https://subitclub.com/2018/08/07/evaluate-small-publishers-like-a-pro/?sfns=mo

Deep Point of View

What is deep point of view and why do readers like it so much? 

https://authorkristenlamb.com/2019/08/deep-pov-fiction/

Author Website

What information needed on your author website depends on whether or not you're yet published. 

https://www.jenniferlaughran.com/faq/do-i-need-a-website-and-if-so-what-should-be-on-it

Public Domain

Even if a work is in the public domain, you may need to consider the publicity and privacy rights of an individual portrayed. 

http://www.publicdomainsherpa.com/rights-of-publicity-and-privacy.html

Getting Critiqued

When you're looking for critiquers, look for the nit-pickiest ones you can find. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/08/why-writers-should-want-nitpicky.html

Denouement

Now that the climax of your book has happened, it's time to bring the action down and end your story. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/08/4-keys-to-a-powerful-denouement/

Filler Words

Tighten your writing by eliminating these filler words that add nothing to your story. 

https://www.grammarcheck.net/filler-words/

Comp Titles

It's sometimes helpful to include books that are similar to yours, that is comp titles, in your query.

https://kidlit.com/2018/12/10/comp-titles-in-a-query-book-comps/

Hashtags for Writers

If you're on social media, here are some hashtags the find your writing community. 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/08/19/hashtags-every-writer-should-know/

Video Trailers

Here's how to use Canva to create some simple trailers for your book. 

https://www.authorimprints.com/canva-book-trailers/

Grammar Rules

It's okay to break some of the conventional grammar rules in your writing. 

https://stevelaube.com/15-grammar-rules-that-can-be-broken/

Freelance Editors

If you're considering hiring a freelance editor, do these five things first. 

https://rachellegardner.com/hiring-a-freelance-editor-2/

Rejections

No one likes receiving rejections, so here are several reasons you may be getting them. 

https://annerallen.com/2019/07/rejections-8-reasons-why/

Sense of Smell

We know we should incorporate all five senses into our writing, but including smell is not always easy.

https://killzoneblog.com/2019/08/the-nose-knows.html

Book Series

When you're planning out a series, here are some points to consider. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/how-to-write-a-series-5-lessons-ive-learned

Book Title Generators

These websites can help you think of possible names for your book. 

https://kindlepreneur.com/free-book-title-generator-tools/?sfns=mo

Middle Grade or Young Adult

How can you tell if the category of your novel is middle grade or young adult? 

https://thewritelife.com/young-adult-vs-middle-grade-fiction/

Contract Terms

This video explains the terms used in agent and publisher contracts. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xhqoKZ_GXg&feature=youtu.be

Point of View

Some things to consider when choosing whether to use first or third person point of view. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2011/01/first-vs-third-point-of-view-and.html

Character Description

When you're describing your character, avoid the boring bits. 

https://jamigold.com/2019/07/character-descriptions-avoiding-the-boring-stuff-guest-angela-ackerman/

Art Notes

You can think of your art notes in a picture book as action notes. 

https://taralazar.com/2019/08/05/art-notes-are-action-notes/

Picture Book Structure

There are several ways you can structure a picture book, and here are two of them. 

https://kidlit.com/2018/10/15/picture-book-structure/

Endings

Here are some things to consider when tying up all the loose ends in your novel. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2010/07/who-ordered-happily-ever-after.html

QueryTracker

QueryTracker is one way to keep track of your submissions while you're looking for an agent. 

https://writersrumpus.com/2019/07/19/stay-organized-with-query-tracker/

Character Changes

By asking these three simple questions, you can show how your character changes through the course of your story. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/07/three-simple-questions-that-will-unlock-your-story/

Paths to Publication

There are now many ways to get your book in front of readers. 

https://www.janefriedman.com/key-book-publishing-path/

Dialogue

How to write dialogue that rings true and gives insight into your character.

https://www.ingramspark.com/blog/how-to-write-dialogue-tips-to-captivate-readers

Picture Book Biographies

Here are ten things to consider when writing a picture book biography. 

https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/13779/10-things-to-consider-when-writing-a-picture-book-biography/

Killer Opening Scenes

How do you write an opening that will hook your readers and keep them turning the pages? 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/07/how-to-write-an-opening-scene-that-hooks-readers/

Niche Marketing

Is there a niche (hobby, holiday, setting, etc.) area you can focus your marketing efforts on? 

http://smack-dab-in-the-middle.blogspot.com/2019/07/niche-marketing-and-my-1-guerilla.html

Holiday Books

The positives and negatives of writing holiday-related books.

https://writersrumpus.com/2019/07/02/the-s-and-s-of-writing-holiday-books/

Internal Narrative

Internal narrative allows your readers to dive deep into and identify your character. 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/critique-4-ways-to-write-gripping-internal-narrative/#

Lead-in Phrases

Get rid of these superfluous lead-in phrases and tighten your writing. 

https://www.ragan.com/ditch-these-superfluous-lead-in-phrases/?sfns=mo

Book Preorders

Why does it matter whether or not people preorder your book before it's released? 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/08/06/why-preorders-matter/

Creative Nonfiction

Creative nonfiction does not mean that you can play fast and loose with the facts. 

https://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2016/10/behind-books-what-heck-is-creative.html

Dialogue

These tips for writing dialogue will bring your characters and your scenes to life. 

https://www.ingramspark.com/blog/how-to-write-dialogue-tips-to-captivate-readers

Book Income

What are the various income streams that are possible from your book? 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/07/how-authors-make-money

Book Events

Here are some suggestions to make for a better book event. 

https://writerunboxed.com/2019/03/23/the-art-of-the-book-event-9-tips/

Querying Agents and Editors

Here are some reasons why it's not a great idea to simultaneously query agents and editors with the same manuscript. 

https://literaticat.tumblr.com/post/186444063615/is-it-okor-even-expectedto-simultaneously-query

Descriptions

Here are some hints on how to write descriptions without going overboard.

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/07/how-to-write-description-without-going.html

Marketing a Book Award

Now that you've won that book award (congratulations!), how can you best use that in your marketing efforts? 

https://www.thebookdesigner.com/2019/07/13-ways-to-use-a-book-award-for-marketing/

Novels in Verse

Just like prose novels, those written in verse need to have a structure and a plot. 

https://www.darcypattison.com/writing/plot/best-9-tips-on-plotting-a-novel-in-verse-advice-from-caroline-starr-rose/

Rejections

Eight reasons that your manuscript might be receiving rejections. 

https://annerallen.com/2019/07/rejections-8-reasons-why/

Setting Details

Which details about the setting should you include and which should you leave out. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/04/picking-the-right-setting-details/

Critique Partners and Beta Readers

What's the difference between a critique partner and a beta reader, and why do you need both? 

https://www.bridgidgallagher.com/blog/127-the-difference-between-critique-partners-and-beta-readers-and-why-you-need-both

Comp Titles

What are comp titles and how do you find them?

https://kidlit.com/2018/12/10/comp-titles-in-a-query-book-comps/

Character Names

How do you choose an unforgettable character name? 

https://electricliterature.com/how-to-give-your-characters-unforgettable-names/

Children's Book Categories

From board books to young adult, here's a description of the various categories of children's books. 

https://www.jennybowman.com/what-genre-is-my-childrens-book/

Holiday Picture Books

Here are some pros and cons of writing a picture book centered around a holiday.

https://groggorg.blogspot.com/2018/12/writing-holiday-picture-book-by.html

Characters are People

By writing your characters as if they were real people, you'll make them pop for your readers. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2018/12/characters-are-people-too-bring-your-book-to-life-part-i/

Opening Scenes

Here are five tips to strengthen the opening of your novel. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2018/12/5-ways-to-write-stronger-opening-scenes.html

Re-editing Older Works

Whether you've gotten the rights back for an out-of-print titles or you're looking to put together a collection of your shorter writings, it worthwhile taking a closer look at the manuscript.

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2018/09/5-things-re-editing-your-older-work-can.html

Conflicting Information

How do you handle conflicting feedback on your manuscript? 

https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2018/12/11/ask-dianne-dealing-with-conflicting-informagtion-plus-book-winner-update/

Writing Picture Books

Josh Funk shares everything you need to know to get started in writing picture books. 

https://www.joshfunkbooks.com/resources-for-writers

Foreign Rights

How does your agent or publisher arrange for the rights to sell your books in different areas of the world? 

https://literaticat.tumblr.com/post/186354394225/my-agent-sold-english-rights-for-my-debut-mg-novel

Fair Use

What constitutes "fair use" when incorporating someone else's words or illustrations in your own work? 

https://www.janefriedman.com/sample-permission-letter/?sfns=mo

Vanity Publishers

Beware of these vanity publishers--remember, money should flow to the author. 

https://accrispin.blogspot.com/2019/07/from-writer-bewares-files-seven-most.html?sfns=mo

Critique Partners

What should you look for in a critique partner? 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/07/my-critique-partner/

Networking at Conferences

One of the values of attending a writers' conference is the chance to network with your peers and industry professionals. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/publishing-insights/10-tips-for-effective-networking-at-a-writers-conference

Author Brand

People say that authors need to have a brand, but what does that actually mean? 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/07/10/understanding-your-author-brand/

Publishing Terms

Learn the words and acronyms used in the publishing business. 

https://writersrumpus.com/2019/07/09/the-writers-rumpus-glossary-of-publishing-terms/

Picture Book Nonfiction

Nonfiction picture books share many of the characteristics of fiction ones, including being good read alouds. 

http://picturebookden.blogspot.com/2019/07/tips-on-writing-picture-book-non.html

Mind Mapping

Using a visual map can help you organize your writing process. 

https://blog.bookbaby.com/2016/11/mind-mapping-can-help-organize-your-writing-process/

Niche Marketing

Determining a niche (or niches) for your book will help you market to the right readers. 

http://smack-dab-in-the-middle.blogspot.com/2019/07/niche-marketing-and-my-1-guerilla.html

Author Websites

Here are ten criteria to make your website stand out. 

http://scbwi.blogspot.com/2019/07/author-website-criteria-how-does-your.html

Routes to Publication

There are many ways to get your book publication, and this article gives you the details about all of them.

https://blog.reedsy.com/how-to-get-your-book-published/

Writing Biography

Here are a few hints to help you structure your biography. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/07/top-5-things-learned-writing-my-first-biography/

Revealing Characters Through the Eyes of Others

Your protagonist's circle of friends can reveal a great deal about their character. 

https://onewildword.com/2019/06/22/reveal-your-characters-through-their-circle-of-friends/

Reasons for Rejection

There are many reasons an agent might pass on your query, but here are some that are easy to avoid. 

http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2019/06/five-reasons-i-passed-on-your-query-and.html

Writing a Good Climax

The climax is the point of the story your readers have been waiting for, so make it a good one. 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/06/how-to-write-a-good-climax-in-a-novel

Show, Don't Tell

We all know we should show and not tell, but how do you actually do that? 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/critique-8-quick-tips-for-show-dont-tell/

Setting and Deep Point of View

If you're using deep point of view, remember every setting description should be seen through your character's eyes. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/06/make-your-story-feel-real-with-strategic-description/

Rebooting Your Query

If your career has languished, and you want to query a new manuscript, do these suggestions before sending it out. 

http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2019/06/so-were-going-to-reboot-your-career.html

Picture Book Pacing

Here are three tips to fine tune the pacing in your picture book.

https://johartauthor.com/2014/05/22/3-tips-for-pacing-in-picture-books/

Author Websites

What are the must-have pages for your author website? 

https://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/6-elements-of-a-successful-author-website

Writing Mistakes

We all make mistakes in our writing, so here's how to fix some of the common ones. 

https://blog.influenceandco.com/10-writing-mistakes-people-make-all-the-time-and-how-to-fix-them

Titles

The tone of your title needs to match that of your story. 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/06/18/choosing-a-title/

Asking for Reviews

What to do and not to do when approaching a blogger to review your book. 

https://mythicscribes.com/writing-techniques/first-word-endings/

Endings

Make sure the ending of your story satisfies your readers. 

https://mythicscribes.com/writing-techniques/first-word-endings/

Common Mistakes

Agent Nathan Branford shares some of the common mistakes he sees in submissions. 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/06/the-most-common-mistakes-writers-make

Point of View

Here are the advantages and the pitfalls of the various points of view. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2010/09/through-my-eyes-or-your-eyes-or.html

Understanding Agent/Editor Responses

Just what do the different responses you get to a submission actually mean? 

https://www.lspark.com/writing/editorese.html

Paying for Author Visits

Help schools and libraries afford your author visit by sharing these resources with them. 

https://www.annettewhipple.com/2019/06/how-to-pay-for-author-visit.html

Book Series

Here are some tips if you're considering writing a book series. 

https://www.writersandartists.co.uk/writers/advice/738/dedicated-genre-advice/writing-for-children/

Self-Editing

It takes many rounds of edits of different types to revise your manuscript. 

https://ashleewillisauthor.wordpress.com/2019/06/20/how-i-self-edit-my-books/

Wordpress Author Sites

If you're thinking of building your author website with Wordpress, here's what you need to know. 

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2019/06/21/how-to-get-started-with-a-wordpress-author-website/

Plot Holes

Use these five suggestions to avoid holes in your story's plots. 

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2019/06/19/writing-tips-5-ways-to-avoid-plot-holes-in-your-novel/

Characters With Personality

How to use the Myers-Briggs personality types to bring your characters to life. 

https://writerunboxed.com/2019/06/21/writing-characters-with-personality/

Resources for Writers

Here's a list of links of interest to writers of websites, blogs, classes, and much more. 

http://justincolonbooks.com/resources-for-writers/

Setting as Character

Done right, your setting can become another character in your story. 

https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2019/06/27/setting-as-character-by-katia-raina/

Before You Sign With an Agent

Here are some questions to ask when you get a call from an agent. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/guest-columns/10-questions-to-ask-an-agent-before-you-sign?sfns=mo

The Power of Silence

By silencing the dialogue and action in a scene, you allow room for the character's thoughts and personality to emerge. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/06/37152/

The Climax of a Novel

A novel's climax isn't just a single event, but includes the scenes on either side of it. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/whats-new/4-ways-to-improve-plotclimax-in-your-writing

Who's Looking At Your Website?

When you're designing and building your website, it's important to keep your audience in mind. 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/06/20/whos-looking-at-your-website/

Social Media

What do agents and editors want to see when they look at your social media? 

http://inkygirl.com/inkygirl-main/2019/6/17/poll-results-what-editors-and-agents-look-for-in-social-medi.html

Selling Books at Conventions

If you're doing a booksigning, what can you do to convince people to buy your book(s)?

https://nowastedink.com/2019/06/14/selling-books-at-conventions-by-lydia-sherrier/

Openings

What should you have in the beginning of your story that will make a reader continue reading?

https://mythicscribes.com/writing-techniques/first-word-beginnings/

Great Picture Books

What can you do in writing a picture book to make it successful in the marketplace. 

http://tracymarchini.com/2011/02/14/9-factors-that-make-a-picture-book-successful/

After a Writer's Death

You need to plan what you want to be done, after you pass away, with both your published and unpublished works.

http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2019/06/now-that-youre-dead-about-that-novel.html

Endings

You've reached the end of your novel, and now it's time to make sure you've tied up all the loose strings. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2010/07/who-ordered-happily-ever-after.html

Word Choice

There are so many things to consider when choosing the perfect word, especially when writing picture books. 

https://www.writingforward.com/better-writing/word-choice

Story Goals

Yes, your main character needs goals, but don't let them slow down the pace of your story. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/06/story-goals-are-they-slowing-your-storys-pace/

Great Dialogue

Here are some tips from The Gilmore Girls for writing memorable dialogue. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/06/5-tips-from-gilmore-girls-for-writing-great-dialogue/

Types of Structures

There are so many structures to choose from in writing your story--from traditional to circular, cumulative to parallel, and many more. 

http://12x12challenge.com/2019/06/01/12-x-12-featured-author-june-2019-lauren-kerstein/

Kidlit Writing Mistakes

If you're writing for children, the biggest mistake you can make is not to read current children's books. 

https://www.writermag.com/improve-your-writing/writing-for-young-readers/childrens-book-mistakes/

Interesting Scenes

Here are some tips to make your scenes more interesting to your readers. 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/how-to-write-interesting-scenes/#

Manuscript Formatting

Here's how to format your manuscripts using Microsoft Word. 

http://www.writingforchildrenandteens.com/writing-basics/how-to-format-your-manuscript/

Compelling Characters

Here are six "F words" (no, not that one) for making your characters stand out for your readers. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/06/six-f-words-for-compelling-characters/

Synopsis

At some point you'll have to write a synopsis for your novel, so you might as well have some tips on how to do so. 

https://www.aerogrammestudio.com/2019/05/31/how-to-write-a-synopsis-for-your-novel/

Writing Rules

Sometimes you need to set aside the standard wisdom and write.

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/06/down-with-the-rules/

Chapters

How do you organize the parts of a novel's chapters? 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/05/how-to-organize-a-chapter

Character Checklist

Fill out this checklist from Cheryl Klein about your characters to have a better understanding of them.  

http://www.cherylklein.com/book-resources/charchecklist

Describing the Scene

Immersing your readers in where your story takes place is an important part of bringing it to life. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/03/places-are-important-too-bring-your-book-to-life-part-ii/

Theme

How do you figure out the theme of your story?

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/05/what-every-writer-should-know-about.html

Injecting Humor

Kids love funny, so here are some techniques to inject humor into your writing. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/04/8-ways-to-inject-humor-into-your-writing/

Picture Book Page Turns

Here are some techniques that will make your picture book readers want to turn that page. 

https://groggorg.blogspot.com/2016/04/turn-that-picture-book-page-by-patricia.html

Show, Don't Tell

Show, don't tell, is one of the basic writing rules, but how do you do that? 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/show-dont-tell/#

Saggy Middles

Throw in some conflict to add tension and tighten up that saggy middle of your novel.

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/05/saggy-middle-use-conflict-to-nip-and-tuck-it/

Pitching at a Conferences

Writing conferences are a great opportunity to meet agents and talk to them about your work. 

http://wow-womenonwriting.com/35-How2-PitchAgent.html#.XNoUxGG2wk8.blogger

Work for Hire

Here are some of the joys and challanges in writing work for hire. 

https://groggorg.blogspot.com/2019/05/work-for-hire-joys-and-challenges-from.html

Revision Grid

How can you use a revision grid to break a story down into its elements? 

https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/13581/using-a-revision-grid-to-break-a-story-down-into-elements/

Book Promotion Trends

Here are seven trends in book promotion garnered from BookExpo 2019.

https://insights.bookbub.com/book-promotion-trends-bookexpo-2019/

Outlines

Writing an outline for your novel is more than simply listing the scenes. 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2019/06/how-to-outline-a-novel

Write What You Know

We've all heard the advice to write what you know, but what are the perks--and perils--of doing so? 

https://writersrumpus.com/2019/05/31/the-perks-and-perils-of-write-what-you-know/

Author Tours

Here are five tips to having a successful book tour. 

http://picturebookden.blogspot.com/2019/06/top-5-tips-for-succesful-author-tour-by.html

Book Launch Checklist

Preparing for your book launch starts six months before the publication day. 

https://insights.bookbub.com/book-launch-checklist-marketing-timeline-traditionally-published-authors/

Rejection

What are some of the real reasons your book was rejected? 

https://annerallen.com/2015/02/the-10-real-reasons-your-book-was/

Characters

Here are some techniques you can use to bring your character to life. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2018/12/characters-are-people-too-bring-your-book-to-life-part-i/

Choosing a Publicist

If you've chosen to hire an outside publicist, how do you decide who's right for you and your book? 

https://www.janefriedman.com/choosing-a-publicist-ruling-out-and-ruling-in/

Condensing Characters

Sometimes it helps the flow of your story to combine two characters into one. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/05/contrasting-and-condensing-characters-two-sides-to-one-coin/

Manuscript Formatting

You may know how your manuscript should be formatted, but this post shows you how to accomplish that in Microsoft Word. 

https://fantasyhandbook.wordpress.com/2019/04/30/basic-manuscript-format/

Picture Book Structure

There are many ways to structure your picture book to make it a more satisfying read. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/whats-new/7-ways-to-structure-your-picture-book

Creating Emotion

Here are some tips to help your readers be touched and moved by your story.  

https://theeditorsblog.net/2011/01/30/creating-emotion-in-the-reader/

Pacing Tricks

How can you use pacing to keep your reader's attention? 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/4-pacing-tricks/

Book Titles

What should your book title accomplish? 

http://smack-dab-in-the-middle.blogspot.com/2019/05/what-should-books-title-do-by-michele.html

Humorous Nonfiction

Who says nonfiction can't be funny? 

https://www.nonfiction-ninjas.com/blog/can-nonfiction-be-funny-by-linda-skeers

Query Letter Basics

A paragraph by paragraph guide of what to put in your query letter.

https://subitclub.com/2017/04/13/how-to-write-a-query-letter-a-basic-breakdown/

Inciting Incident

The inciting incident is the action that sets your plot in motion.

http://scribemeetsworld.com/2017/writing-tips/inciting-incident-pacing/

Conference Newbies

It can be scary attending a conference for the first time, but here are some hints to make it easier. 

http://inkygirl.com/inkygirl-main/2015/7/28/tips-for-scbwi-la-conference-newbies-second-timers-plus-a-ch.html

Rhyming Picture Books

The most important factors in rhyming picture books are, in order: story, rhythm (meter), and lastly, rhyme.

https://www.joshfunkbooks.com/lesson-9

Twitter Pitch Contests

Here's a primer on how to dip your toe (or pen) into the world of twitter pitch contests. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2014/09/the-ultimate-writers-guide-to-twitter-pitch-contests/

Picture Book Genres

Picture book genres range from concept books to fantasy, realistic to poetry. 

http://wwwpamcalvert.blogspot.com/2013/07/picture-book-university-picture-book.html

Author Platforms

What exactly is an author platform and how do you create yours? 

https://alaynekaychristian.wordpress.com/2014/12/13/julie-hedlund-busts-myths-about-author-platforms/

Middle Grade Fiction - Tense and Point of View

What tense and point of view are used in best-selling middle grade books?

https://ellenbrockediting.com/2013/10/07/bestselling-middle-grade-fiction-part-2-tense-point-of-view/

Comp Titles

If an agent or editor asks you for comp titles, or books that are similar to yours, you need to choose only recently published ones. 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/05/09/choosing-comp-titles/

Children's Book Categories

Contrary to popular opinion, a picture book is not a genre (like mystery, science fiction, biography) but rather a category. 

https://www.jennybowman.com/what-genre-is-my-childrens-book/

Character Descriptions

Describing your characters is more than just listing their physical attributes. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/there-are-no-rules/11-secrets-to-writing-effective-character-description

Tighten Your Writing

Cut these 25 words and phrases to make your writing read more smoothly.  

https://contentmarketinginstitute.com/2019/04/delete-words-phrases/?es_p=9188423

Things to Love About Author Visits

An educator shares five benefits for her students when authors come to visit.

https://knowledgequest.aasl.org/5-things-i-love-about-author-visits/

Middle Grade Fiction - Genres and Topics

What genres and topics appear in middle grade fiction on the best-selling lists?

https://ellenbrockediting.com/2013/09/30/bestselling-middle-grade-fiction-part-1-genres-topics/

Grow Your Backstory

We all know you shouldn't infodump your backstory at the beginning of your manuscript, but how do you organically integrate the needed information? 

https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/mfa-for-breakfast-series-how-to-grow-your-backstory-by-katia-raina/

Rockstar-Quality Titles

Although your publisher may end up changing the title you choose, it never hurts to start with a catchy title. 

https://www.tckpublishing.com/how-to-choose-a-fiction-title/

Publishing Dictionary

Like any business, publishing has a language all its own. 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/04/30/an-updated-publishing-dictionary/

Book Events

Here are some hints to make your next book event a success. 

https://writerunboxed.com/2019/03/23/the-art-of-the-book-event-9-tips/

Third Person Limited

Since the early 1900s, the most common point of view in novels is third person limited. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/there-are-no-rules/craft-technique/why-third-person-limited-point-of-view

Is it a Picture Book

Just because you're manuscript is only 500 words long, that doesn't necessarily mean you've written a picture book. 

http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/10105/guest-post-darcy-pattison-and-leslie-helakoski-how-do-you-know-if-youve-written-a-picture-book/

Realistic Dialogue

Dialogue in a book should mimic exactly the way people talk, but it needs to be believable. 

https://killzoneblog.com/2019/03/what-did-you-say-writing-realistic-dialogue.html

Injecting Humor Into Your Writer

Even the most serious of books needs to humor to lighten them up. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/04/8-ways-to-inject-humor-into-your-writing/

Social Media Tips

Your readers are on social media, so you need to be there, too. 

https://annerallen.com/2019/04/use-social-media-avoid-cesspool/

One-Sentence Summary

Before you can even consider writing a synopsis, you need to be able to describe your book in one sentence. 

https://rachellegardner.com/writing-a-one-sentence-summary/

Character Objectives

Knowing your character's objectives, both external and internal, will help you write a strong character.

https://kidlit.com/2019/02/18/character-objective-writing-strong-protagonist/

Author Websites

Do you need an author website and, if so, what are the necessary pages? 

https://www.jenniferlaughran.com/faq/do-i-need-a-website-and-if-so-what-should-be-on-it

Close Point of View

Using a close perspective allows your readers to more identify with your character. 

https://mythcreants.com/blog/narrating-a-close-point-of-view/

Free Verse Poetry

Whether you're writing a novel or picture book in verse or stand-alone poetry, you might want to give free verse a try. 

https://www.writingforward.com/poetry-writing/what-is-free-verse-poetry

Growing Your Instagram Audience

Instagram is becoming increasing important for authors, but how do you build a following? 

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2017/01/07/instagram/

Showing a Character's Age

It can be awkward showing your character's age in your story, but these three hints might help. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2014/02/an-age-old-question-how-do-you-show.html

Character Tools

Here are several tools to use that will help bring your character to life. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/04/5-character-tools-you-absolutely-need-to-know/

Critiquing - Best Practices

When workshopping someone else's manuscript, what's the best way to make your suggestions the most helpful? 

http://www.kittywumpus.net/blog/2014/01/31/how-to-critique-best-practices-for-workshopping/

Poetic Voice

How can you use syntax in your rhyming picture book to make it sing? 

https://kidlit.com/2019/04/08/syntax-in-poetry-and-poetic-voice-in-rhyming-picture-books/

Setting Tips

Here are several tips to use in describing a setting. 

https://www.nownovel.com/blog/describe-place-6-tips/

Choosing Between Book Ideas

As writers, we have so many ideas swirling around in our heads, but how do we choose which ones to pursue? 

https://rachellegardner.com/so-many-ideas-so-little-time-2/

Interactive School Visits

Engage the students during your school visit by making it more interactive. 

https://thebookingbiz.com/2019/03/5-ways-to-make-school-visits-interactive/

Photographs in Picture Books

If you need photographs in your picture book, here are some great sources for copyright-free images.

https://www.nonfiction-ninjas.com/blog/picture-perfect-by-stephanie-bearce

Character-Driven Picture Books

What qualities does a picture book need to have it be more about the character than the plot? 

https://wwwpamcalvert.blogspot.com/2013/07/picture-book-university-character.html?m=1

Writing Mistakes

Here are some writing mistakes you probably don't even realize you're doing.

https://writingthroughlife.com/7-writing-mistakes-you-probably-dont-realize-youre-making/

Anatomy of a Synopsis

Just like a story, your synopsis needs a beginning, middle, and end.

http://underdown.org/synopsis.htm

Objective Correlative

Here's a new tool for your writer's toolbox--the objetive correlative uses objects, characters, and setting to create an emotional impact on the reader.

https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2019/03/27/katia-raina/

Should You Blog

Here are some points to consider if you're wondering whether or not you should have an author blog. 

https://rachellegardner.com/should-all-authors-blog/

Setting

You need to choose the right setting not just for your overall book, but also for every scene. 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/choose-right-story-setting/# 

Independent Publicists

Here's what you can expect if you decide to hire an independent publicist in addition to the one your publisher provides you. 

https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/columns-and-blogs/soapbox/article/79542-what-to-expect-from-independent-publicists.html

Tighten Your Writing

Improve your writing by cutting these mundane elements from your story. 

https://www.janefriedman.com/mundane-elements-cut/

Funding an Author Visit

Ways to help schools find the money to bring you in for an author visit. 

http://www.donnajanellbowman.com/2019/03/20/finding-the-funds-to-pay-for-an-author-visit/

When You Get an Offer

After doing the happy dance, what should you do next after receiving an offer? 

https://subitclub.com/2019/04/02/when-you-get-an-offer/

The Truth About Publishing

From getting published to coping with success, here's an extensive list of things you might not know about publishing. 

https://www.ian-irvine.com/for-writers/the-truth-about-publishing/

Character Name Generator

Here's a fun site to help you create character names depending on archetypes, language, and mythology, to name a few.

https://blog.reedsy.com/character-name-generator

Working With Your Publisher to Market Your Book

Yes, your publisher will do a great deal of work to promote your book, but there are ways you can help, too. 

https://www.scbwi.org/how-to-help-your-publisher-market-your-book/

Using Formatting to Affect Pacing

You can change the pacing of your novel by changing where you put paragraph breaks. 

https://killzoneblog.com/2019/02/pacing-and-spacing-the-power-of-artful-paragraphing.html

Writing Flashbacks

How do you ensure your flashbacks are necessary for your story and, if they are, how do you write them to cause the least confusion for your readers? 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/03/struggling-with-writing-flashbacks-try-using-the-p-a-s-t-method-%EF%BB%BF/

Place and Story

Where you set your story and how you fully envelope your characters in that place is important to your story.

http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2019/03/the-where-of-it-all-place-and-story-a-guest-post-by-kathi-appelt/

Realistic Dialogue

We want the dialogue in our books to sound realistic, but without all the boring parts. 

https://killzoneblog.com/2019/03/what-did-you-say-writing-realistic-dialogue.html

What to Expect from an Agent

How an agent helps in not just selling your book, but in guiding your career. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/tip-of-the-day/what-an-agent-does-does-not-do

Tightening Your Writing

Reduce the flab in your manuscript with this tips. 

https://authorkristenlamb.com/2019/03/editing-authors-professional-edits/

Show Not Tell

Here are three ways writing tells and doesn't show, and how you can fix them. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/03/three-ways-writers-tell-not-show-and-how-you-can-fix-them/

Blogging

Writing a blog post is different than simply writing an article and posting it online.

https://annerallen.com/2019/03/how-to-write-web-content/

Pen Names

In this day of social media, does using a pen name make sense? 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/02/pseudonyms-noms-de-plume-pen-names-or.html

Young Adult or Middle Grade?

How can you tell whether your story is for preteens or teenagers, middle grade or young adult?

https://cornerstonesus.com/894-2/

Nonfiction Rule of Three

Everyone knows about the rule of three in fiction, but what does that mean for nonfiction? 

http://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2019/03/me-and-magic-of-three-by-heather-l.html?m=1

Instagram for Writers

How can you best use the power of Instagram to reach your readers (present and future)? 

https://insights.bookbub.com/guide-instagram-writers/

Writing Contests

How can you tell the difference between scam writing contests and ones that are worth entering? 

https://annerallen.com/2019/02/writing-contests-important/

Synopses

Whether you're writing a one-page or several-page synopsis, here are some hints to make it easier. 

https://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/queries-and-synopses-and-proposals/taming-the-synopsis-4-steps-for-perfecting-one-page-and-long-form-synopses

Plot Killers

Here are six mistakes that can reduce the impact of a great plot. 

https://mythcreants.com/blog/six-mistakes-that-can-kill-a-great-plot/

Publisher Catalogs

If you are looking to see what types of books a publisher brings out, you can find online copies of their catalogs here. 

https://www.edelweiss.plus/

Descriptive Writing

Use all five senses to make your readers feel like they are experiencing the story along with your characters. 

https://refiction.com/articles/descriptive-writing/

Is Your Agent Any Good?

How do you tell if your agent is doing a good job for you and your career? 

https://www.janefriedman.com/how-do-you-know-if-your-agent-is-any-good/

Settings

Where you set your book and how you describe it will help bring your story to life. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/03/places-are-important-too-bring-your-book-to-life-part-ii/

When To Stop Editing

How do you know when it's time to stop revising and start submitting?

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/01/3-signs-its-time-to-stop-editing-that-manuscript/

Character Agency

It's important that your characters have agency, the purpose that drives their actions. 

https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2019/02/27/character-agency-by-katia-raina/

Prologues

When the guidelines say to only include a partial of your manuscript, should you include the prologue or not? 

http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2019/02/the-much-maligned-prologue-with-some.html

Blurbs

It's hard to ask people to blurb your book, but these tips will make it easier.

https://writerunboxed.com/2017/05/02/rattling-the-cup-for-blurbs/

Redundant Writing

Whether it's repeating words or repeating what you're saying but in a different ways, it's time to cut those redundancies out of your writing. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/02/redundancy-in-your-writing-and-how-to-exorcise-it/

Voice

This is the best and simplest explanation of voice I've ever seen. 

http://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2019/03/what-is-voice.html

Backstory Through Dialogue

No one wants to read an infodump of backstory, but you can share some of those details through dialogue. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/02/writing-backstory-through-dialogue/

Picture Book Pagination

Make your readers want to turn that page at the end of every spread.

https://lernerbooks.blog/2017/09/paginate-picture-book-manuscript.html

Should You Blog?

Here are some tips to decide whether blogging is for you. 

https://rachellegardner.com/should-all-authors-blog/

Dialects and Accents

A little goes a long way when adding dialects and accents to your dialogue. 

https://killzoneblog.com/2019/01/rendering-dialects-and-accents-in-dialogue.html

Nonfiction Back Matter

Back matter gives you the opportunity to share some of your research in more detail. 

https://www.nonfiction-ninjas.com/blog/extra-extra-read-more-about-it

Self-Promotion Tips

You are the most important member of your marketing team, both before and after publication. 

http://www.manuscriptwishlist.com/2016/08/tips-to-promote-yourself-as-an-author-before-and-after-publication/

Going Out of Print

What can you do to extend the life of your book after it goes out of print? 

https://cynthialeitichsmith.com/2019/02/guest-post-lindsey-lane-on-reframing-the-reality-of-books-going-out-of-print-part-1-the-facts/
https://cynthialeitichsmith.com/2019/02/guest-post-lindsey-lane-on-reframing-the-reality-of-books-going-out-of-print-part-2-author-illustrator-perspective/

Make History Real

How do you bring a world to life in your historical fiction?

https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2019/02/19/three-ways-to-make-the-historical-real/

Writing Contests

How do you choose which, if any, writing contests to enter?

https://annerallen.com/2019/02/writing-contests-important/

Manuscript Formatting

There are many sources to tell you correct manuscript formatting, but this post tells you how to do it in Microsoft Word, step-by-step. 

https://jerryjenkins.com/manuscript-format/

YA Cliches

Don't fall into these cliche traps in your young adult novel. 

https://mythcreants.com/blog/a-field-guide-to-six-infectious-ya-cliches/

Authors and Taxes

Here's a checklist of things to do and consider in order to file your taxes as an author. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/02/easy-tax-guide-for-authors/

Endings

How to do craft a good ending to leave your reader satisfied? 

https://refiction.com/articles/making-ends-meet-how-to-write-a-good-ending-to-a-story/

Single Point of View

What are the advantages of choosing a single POV to tell you story?

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/writing-a-single-pov-story/

Showing vs. Telling

All writers know to show not tell, but how do you do that? 

https://wonderwords100.wordpress.com/2019/01/19/vivian-kirkfield-on-showing-versus-telling-strategies/

When to Stop Editing

One of the hardest things about revising is knowing when you're finished, and it's time to stop editing. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/01/3-signs-its-time-to-stop-editing-that-manuscript/

The 10% Rule

One of Stephen King's best piece of writing advice is to delete 10% of your manuscript to make a better read. 

https://annerallen.com/2019/01/stephen-kings-10-rule/

Social Media for Authors

If you're new to social media or just want to try a new platform, here's the information you need. 

https://www.blueinkreview.com/promoting-your-childrens-book-on-social-media-a-newbies-guid/

Storytime Picture Books

What do librarians look for when they choose a picture book for storytime? 

https://writeoncon.org/10-things-librarians-look-for-in-story-time-picture-books/

Picture Book Tips

Here are ten tips to remember when writing a picture book. 

http://www.alicekuipers.com/10-tips-for-writing-childrens-picture-books/

Motivation Reaction Units

Prose can be broken down into cause and effect or motivation reaction units (MRUs). 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/motivation-reaction-units/#

Public Domain

What is public domain and why is it important for authors to understand about it? 

https://www.janefriedman.com/what-is-public-domain/

Author Websites

It's important not just to have an author website, but to have a well-designed one. 

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2019/01/16/the-importance-of-having-a-well-designed-author-website/

Scaffolding in Nonfiction

Use the technique of scaffolding to explain or reinforce concepts in nonfiction writing.

http://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2018/02/getting-to-i-get-it-scaffolding-in_2.html
http://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2018/02/getting-to-i-get-it-scaffolding-in_3.html

Plot Structure

There are many ways to structure your plot, but they mostly have the same basic actions.

http://middlegrademinded.blogspot.com/2014/07/basics-of-plot-structure.html

Writing Rules

Sometimes you need to break a writing rule to improve your story. 

https://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2019/02/01/three-writing-rules-to-disregard/

Authorial Voice

What's the difference between the author's voice and that of a character written in third person? 

https://kidlit.com/2019/02/04/authorial-voice-third-person-voice/

Fantasy Languages

If you want characters in your fantasy novel to speak another language, here are some resources to make their words believable. 

https://mythicscribes.com/world-building/resources-fantasy-languages/

Crutch Words

Eliminate these unneccesary words and tighten your writing. 

https://btleditorial.com/2017/08/22/crutch-words-eliminate/

Kidlit Bloggers

Here's an extensive list of bloggers who cover children's and young adult books. 

http://kidlitosphere.org/bloggers/

Author Platforms

Do you need an author platform and, if so, how do you develop one? 

https://jesskeating.com/for-writers/platform_development/

Leaving Room for Illustrators

When you write a picture book, you need to leave room for an illustrator, even if it's you, to tell part of the story. 

https://taralazar.com/2019/01/26/storystorm-2019-day-26/

Marketing Costs

Here's the amount, broken down by item, one author spent on promoting her book. 

https://www.rachelsolomonbooks.com/blog/my-promo-breakdown

Types of editing

What's the difference between developmental editing, proofreading, and copy editing? 

https://writerunboxed.com/2019/01/08/the-different-types-of-editing/

Who's Reading Your Social Media?

From agents to readers, booksellers to reviewers--your social media reaches many people. 

http://bookendsliterary.com/2019/01/16/social-media-for-authors-2/

Children's Book Publishers

You don't need an agent to submit your kidlit manuscript to these publishers. 

http://www.karlingray.com/blog/posts/23896

Social Media

The best way for you handle social media depends upon you, your book, and your audience. 

https://jesskeating.com/for-writers/jess-keating-playbook/

Video Trailers

This video gives you step-by-step instructions on how to make your own iMovie video trailer for your book.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=by_o10yv_IU&fbclid=IwAR22dVci7uTkdOZR-J2s7IU7TJLRli1HGVBr5Uyilyd6ZEPUADNtdQl_JqI

Chapter Book Blueprints

Here is a chapter by chapter list of what should be happening for different length chapter books. 

https://writersrumpus.com/2013/11/15/chapter-book-blueprints/

SCBWI Grants and Awards

SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) offers more than 30 grants and awards for its members. 

http://scbwi.blogspot.com/2018/12/the-scbwi-offers-more-than-30-grants.html

ARCs and F&Gs

What exact are ARCs and F&Gs, and how are they used? 

http://literaticat.tumblr.com/post/182322011020/hello-there-what-is-an-arc-what-are-fgs-what#_=_

Author Websites

Why do you need an author website and what should it include? 

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2019/01/16/the-importance-of-having-a-well-designed-author-website/

Sentence Structure

Don't bore your readers by using the same sentence structure over and over again. 

http://blog.janicehardy.com/2019/01/how-to-avoid-repetitive-sentence.html

Contests and Awards

You need to do your due diligence before entering your work into a contest or for an award. 

https://www.sfwa.org/other-resources/for-authors/writer-beware/contests/

Wordpress Formatting

Since many kidlit websites and blogs are done with Wordpress, here's information about some new formatting options. 

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2019/01/new-and-mostly-improved-wordpress-formatting-options/

Dialects and Accents

A little goes a long way when including dialects and accents into your character's speech. 

https://killzoneblog.com/2019/01/rendering-dialects-and-accents-in-dialogue.html

Foreshadowing

How to foreshadow events to come in your novel without giving away too much. 

https://rachellegardner.com/writing-craft-foreshadowing/

Kidlit Blogs

The top 100 blogs for children's books. 

https://blog.feedspot.com/childrens_book_blogs/

Twitter Author Platform

Whether you're new to Twitter or an experienced pro, here are some hint to promote you and your books. 

https://nowastedink.com/2019/01/11/using-twitter-for-your-author-platform/

Nonfiction Proposals

If you're writing a longer nonfiction book, you'll need to put together a proposal. 

http://celebratescience.blogspot.com/2019/01/between-lines-nonfiction-proposal-by.html

Crafting a Scene

Here are some things to consider when you're writing a scene. 

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2019/01/all-important-considerations-when-crafting-a-scene/

Agent Etiquette

When you're querying agents, it helps to know the expected way to act in various situations. 

https://blog.nathanbransford.com/2018/05/a-guide-to-literary-agent-etiquette

Picture Book or Chapter Book

What's the best way to tell your story--as a picture book or a chapter book? 

https://taralazar.com/2018/09/17/is-your-picture-book-actually-a-chapter-book/

When NOT to Submit

Ten reasons you're not read to submit your manuscript to an editor or an agent. 

https://scotteagan.blogspot.com/2018/12/10-reasons-to-not-submit-your-story-to.html

The Writing Life

Thirty lessons about the writing life, starting with persistence is more important than talent. 

https://writerunboxed.com/2018/11/27/30-things-ive-learned-about-the-writing-life/

Query Tips

The most important query tip is to write a good book, but here are some others that can help you in your agent search.

https://dianaurban.com/tips-authors-querying-literary-agents

Writing Novels

Consider these ten points as you're planning, writing, and revising your novel. 

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/the-10-step-checklist-to-writing-a-better-than-average-novel/#