How to Get Published

Victory Crayne

A good story is not just what happens to the characters. As a matter of fact, the most important element of a good story is what happens to the reader. The reader is like an invisible participant in the story. The best stories are designed not just to “tell a story” that resides in the imagination of the writer, but are designed to touch the insides of the reader, her emotions, her insights into human nature, her understanding of herself. (more…)

by Al Kalar

“No battle plan survives contact with the enemy”. - Generalfeldmarschall Helmuth von Moltke the Elder

We’ll get back to this quote.

Fine. You know who your audience is, you can write well in your chosen language, and you know why you are writing your book (or pamphlet). Now we can start in on the elements of your story.

Developing Plot and characters

Mapping

Some authors know where they are going and how they plan to get there. These “super writers” can carry around a complicated plot in their heads along with all the twists and turns they intend to include.

But most of us in the mundane world of scrivening are better off if we make a “map” of our plot. (more…)

by Al Kalar

“Writing is not necessarily something to be ashamed of - but do it in private and wash your hands afterwards.” -Robert Heinlein

Point of View (POV)

How are you going to tell your tale? Through who’s eyes will the reader see and experience what is happening? This is an important decision, because you must be consistent throughout your book.

There are three main methods of telling a story: (more…)

by Al Kalar

Writing is easy, “All you do is sit down at a typewriter and open a vein.” - Red Smith

Language

Know your language and its requirements. Grammar and spelling. If you flunked your language classes in school, it’s time to go back to school or hire a ghostwriter.

If you don’t know your language requirements, this blog isn’t going to help you learn. That’s another huge body of knowledge that is best addressed by educators and schools.

Purpose

Why are you writing this? If you don’t know where you’re going, (more…)