The very first panel at the PSWA conference was about what the authors wished they'd known at the beginning of their writing careers. Panelist were Sue MCGinty, W. S. Gager, Michael Black, Bette and J. J. Lamb.
Here is some of what they had to say:
1. Enjoy the moment.
2. Keep track of everything if you are writing a series.
3. First chapters need to start off exciting.
4. The hardest parts are the middle.
5. Think about what is the worst possible thing that could happen, and then put that in the book.
6. Should be suspenseful to the end--excitement to the final chapter.
7. Be sure to tie up everything.
8. A twist at the end.
9. Joining a critique group.
10. Learning how to edit.
11. That it's tough to find a publisher.
12. Need to start promoting yourself from the beginning.
13. Publishing is a cut-throat business.
14. Make each book able to stand alone even if it is a series.
This is all good advice and it was a great panel.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
5 comments:
Gosh, if I'd known all this at the beginning, I would have taken up something simple like designing jet aircraft or running for President.
Malcolm
Hey, Malcolm--one of the things they left out is that you need to start planning promotion as soon as your book is accepted for publication.
Marilyn, may I use these as a handout at a beginners workshop if I credit both you and PSWA?
These are great!
Great summary, Marilyn. The others on the panel had great things to say but I was too nervous to write them down. Thanks,
Wendy
W.S. Gager
www.WsGager.com
Traditional-published, self-published, novice and tenured, all egos were checked at the door, and everyone liked everyone. The three days were pulled off without a hitch that I could see. It was all good! Marilyn and Hap's award was icing on the cake.
Post a Comment