Helping Writers Become Authors

Today, I'd like to share a little bit of my own holiday cheer with a list of the (mostly) writing-specific gifts I' thankful for this Christmas.

Although sorting through our fat idea folders can sometimes seem like an overwhelming challenge, don't forget that an abundance of ideas is an author's greatest blessing.

You might find the perfect gift for the fellow writer on your list - or you may find something to add to your own "Dear Santa" list!

To flashback or not to flashback? Sooner or later, that's a question every writer is confronted with.

It's vital the author understand the differences between action and reaction, so he can identify which course is preferable at key moments in the story

Copying another writer boils down to nothing more or less than mimicry, and mimicry, as we all know, is one awesome compliment.

When the writing gurus tell you to be brave and break some rules, for crying out loud, which rules are they talking about?

When you write your story, but particularly as you revise, be on the watch for the balance that emerges about your character from the details you present.

Let's take a look at ten methods for cracking our whips at our fears and forcing them to respond to our shouts of "back, back, vicious beast!"

Explore the five elements that will help you craft the kind of closing line that caps your entire story and leaves readers with a feeling of unforgettable resonance.

In comparison to giving your overweight manuscript liposuction, fattening up an anorexic story often feels like trying to create something out of nothing.

When authors are dealing with large casts of characters, readers sometimes find themselves in grave danger of character overload.

What makes a good book? Everyone has his own take. Some readers like action, some prefer romance. Some like a little of both.

The opening line of your book is your first (and, if you don't take advantage of it, last) opportunity to grab your reader's attention and give him a reason to read your story.

If you find yourself with a dark character on your hands, stop worrying about whether or not audiences will like him and up the odds by giving him a dog to pet.