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Writing Craft

How to Write ‘Kid Voice’ in Middle Grade Fiction

September 26, 2012

How to Write ‘Kid Voice’ in Middle Grade Fiction

September 26, 2012

By Shannon Messenger I thought I’d talk today about writing kid voice, since that seems to be the subject that comes up most often when people find out I write…

Introducing…The Physical Feature Thesaurus!

September 22, 2012

Introducing…The Physical Feature Thesaurus!

September 22, 2012

If you would, please read the following: The woman in red approached the dancing couple and delivered a slap to her husband that almost rattled the high crystal chandeliers. ~…

Definition: believing in or pursuing what is morally right or good Characters in Literature & Pop Culture: Robin Hood, Dumbledore, Reverend Mr. John Williams (The Scarlet Letter) Clichés to Avoid: the…

How to Build Suspense By Meeting Readers in the Middle

September 12, 2012

How to Build Suspense By Meeting Readers in the Middle

September 12, 2012

Thriller author Donna Galanti has 7 great tips on how to build suspense and keep the reader’s attention, so read on. I’ve learned so much about suspense since writing my…

Character Trait Entry: Modest

September 8, 2012

Character Trait Entry: Modest

September 8, 2012

Definition: Humility, freedom from conceit, a moderate attitude toward of one’s own abilities. Characters in Literature & Pop Culture: Forest Gump (Forest Gump); Dr. Watson (Sherlock Holmes, book); Samwise Gamgee…

Margie Lawson Immersion Experience

September 4, 2012

Margie Lawson Immersion Experience

September 4, 2012

By Melinda Collins Immersion Master Class with Margie Lawson: The Experience, Takeaways & Lessons Thank you, Angela, for inviting me over today to talk about my recent experience in Colorado…

Character Trait Entry: Peacemaker

September 1, 2012

Character Trait Entry: Peacemaker

September 1, 2012

Definition: one who placates; one who seeks to divert conflict Characters in Literature & Pop Culture: Mole (The Wind in the Willows), Susan (The Chronicles of Narnia), Bilbo (at the beginning…

The Power of Theme

August 28, 2012

The Power of Theme

August 28, 2012

John Yeoman dives into a difficult area for many of us–the importance of THEME and how it adds richness and meaning to a story. Strong stories have great themes. They…

The Plot Whisperer: Benefits of Plotting in Scenes

August 23, 2012

The Plot Whisperer: Benefits of Plotting in Scenes

August 23, 2012

Martha Alderson (aka The PLOT WHISPERER) is here to share the benefits of plotting in scenes, Some writers write by the seat of their pants. Others prefer to pre-plot first,…

Character Trait Entry: Sentimental

August 18, 2012

Character Trait Entry: Sentimental

August 18, 2012

Definition: being overly influenced by feelings Characters in Literature: Anne Shirley, Mrs. Weasley, Cecily (Wither) Common Portrayals: women, teenage girls, children Clichés to Avoid: the nostalgic mother crying over her child’s latest…