Most authors do not begin as excellent writers. It's a life-long process. Here are some tips to help you improve: Writing takes practice. To get in the habit of doing it, follow tips one and two: Find your writing space. Have a comfortable space without distractions that’s conducive to writing. Create a writing ritual. Set aside a specific time each day or week that is used only for writing. Learn from others. Tips 3 through [...]
Congratulations you’ve written a book! You are ready to dip your toe into the ocean called submission. STOP. Whether you’ve made one or hundreds of revisions to your query letter or manuscript, take a moment and read this book. I love the way Carolyn Howard-Johnson describes one of the biggest obstacles writers face: GREMLINS. We all know what she is talking about. She’s talking about the inevitable: what can go wrong will go wrong. There [...]
Middle Grade Mafia: Thank you, Anita for taking the time to share your expertise and knowledge with our readers. It is great to have wonderful editors like yourself answer the questions that are on many MG writers’ minds. Anita Mumm: Thank you so much for having me! MGM is such a wonderful resource for writers and book lovers, and I’m honored to be included here. MGM: Can you tell us what agents are looking for [...]
By Guest Contributor Janice Hardy. While there’s something exciting about writing a first draft, I always look forward to the revisions. It isn’t until I see how my story unfolds that I fully understand where I can make it stronger, and turning that literary lump of coal into a diamond is quite rewarding–and a lot of fun. (Also a lot of work, I won’t lie, but well worth it) The list-maker in me has a [...]
The mission of the Middle Grade Mafia is to provide a refuge, a klatch, for established and aspiring middle grade authors. The purpose of the site is to share knowledge, inspire each other, and celebrate good news. Writing can be a lonely endeavor, but when you are part of a family, you are never alone. Please join in the conversation, share good news or recommend great books. Hopefully, all of you will get an offer you can't refuse (get published). :)
