Category Archives: The Business of Writing

Some Thoughts on Querying

I thought I’d check in with you all, as I’ve been “in the query trenches,” as I’ve seen some writers put it, for almost six months now. But before I dive into my experience, I want to talk a little bit about what agents do, why I’m pursuing this route, and what the process entails.

Conference Week

It seems like just a few weeks ago I was getting an invitation to teach at the Taylor University’s Professional Writing Conference. And yet, in just a few days, that’s where I’ll be. I’ve been preparing in earnest for the last few weeks. I’m teaching a workshop on writing for kids, sitting on a panelContinue reading “Conference Week”

Literary Agents: What Are They?

I said I’m back and I meant it! That means videos again! For all those who have asked me “What exactly is a literary agent?” Sadly, there won’t be a video next week as I’ll be at a conference being all professional and whatnot. Until next time, word nerds!

What Happens Next: Submission Series

Once you’ve polished your manuscript, put together a brilliant cover letter, and made sure to mind your manners, there’s only one thing left to do: wait. Waiting is the absolute worst. There’s nothing you can do but twiddle your thumbs and wonder until you hear back. It could be days, weeks, or even months. AndContinue reading “What Happens Next: Submission Series”

Etiquette Lesson: Submission Series

Happy New Year, word nerds! I thought we’d start 2017 off with an etiquette lesson. After all, you want to make the best possible impression this year, don’t you? Unfortunately, my knowledge of manners is rather specialized, so I don’t know what good it will do those of you who aren’t sending in articles toContinue reading “Etiquette Lesson: Submission Series”

I Guess I’m a Real Adult Now?

I graduated from college a year ago. So I’ve been reflecting on the last year and all that’s been going on in my life. And I’ve come to a conclusion. I’m a real adult now. And, yes, that should be a fairly obvious conclusion. I’m now 23 years old, so I’m legally an adult. I’veContinue reading “I Guess I’m a Real Adult Now?”

Preparing Your Story for Submission

Welcome, dear friends and readers, to the Hunger Games!… I mean, the submission series! Honestly, it can feel like a fight to the death when manuscripts are being evaluated. Which one is better? Which will be the last one standing? In this third installment of my submission success series, we’ll be looking at the bestContinue reading “Preparing Your Story for Submission”