blogger: Cynthia Ruchti
WASH YOUR HANDS
Have you been washing your hands like a writer? Like a food service worker? Like a doctor?
During our weekly agent meeting online, the Books & Such agents have been reading and discussing Originals: …
Writing
Acting and Writing
blogger: Cynthia Ruchti
Acting is a unique artform, but it’s also a vital skill for writers.
Accomplished actors become the characters they’re tasked to portray. They “crawl into the skin” of the hero, heroine, villain. Actors often talk about enjoying …
Is your proposal/book ready to submit?
Blogger: Rachel Kent
Recently, I’ve received a few query letters for top-notch ideas, but when I look at the proposal or manuscript, I realize the author shouldn’t have submitted the project yet. The idea and bones of the book are …
Help Your Readers Feel Welcome
Blogger: Rachel Kent
I recently watched a documentary on Netflix about the Funko company and noticed how welcomed all of their “funatics” (this is what they call their fans) feel into their brand culture. I’m sure you’ve seen their Pop! …
Shortcuts to Publishing Success
Blogger: Cynthia Ruchti
(Crickets)
Wait. You really thought publishing success shortcuts exist?
Some try. Writers can successfully employ time-savers, but shortcuts aren’t the positive elements they might be in mountain hikes or traffic jam bypasses.
Time Shortcuts
At a …
Are you Flexible or Focused?
Blogger: Rachel Kent
At Books & Such, we love all types of writers. But today, I’d like to tell you about two specific types. Each one has its pros and cons.
The first is The Flexible Writer.
The Flexible …
Never-Fail Formula for Writing a Book That Won’t Become a Bestseller
Blogger: Cynthia Ruchti
(Updated)
Maybe it’s not discussed often enough in writers’ circles. We talk about what we can do to ready our work for a publisher’s eyes. We list ways to draw readers’ attention with our novels or nonfiction.…
Never-Fail Formula for Writing a Book That Won’t Become a BestsellerRead More
Life Is Research
Blogger: Cynthia Ruchti
Life got in the way of my writing today.
Have those words crossed your mind lately?
Interruptions. Intrusions. Disrupted plans. Upheaval. Kids. Grandkids. Aging parents. Work. School. Volunteer responsibilities. Ordinary and relentless home maintenance…
Memories, good and …
Rejection-Free Writing
Rejection-free writing. Is it possible?
Blogger: Cynthia Ruchti
A writer friend had been working with another writer, coaching him on the craft as he edged toward a publishable manuscript. “I don’t know how to counsel him anymore,” my friend said. …
Read to Write
Read to Write
Blogger: Cynthia Ruchti
A friend visited last week. She’s a minimalist, which I appreciate but have yet to mimic. The one thing I collect–other than dust–that caught her eye was something that shows up in every room …