Writers are not looking for someone to fix commas. They are looking for a guide who understands story shape, emotional pacing, and cultural authenticity. And How the Right Editor Helps You Turn a Moment Into a Book When One Story Refuses to Stay Small Sometimes a short piece will not stay contained. You write a personal essay about your grand...
The Search function is the fastest way to spot patterns you can't see while reading straight through Between writing academic syllabi, deciding which courses to teach, and experimenting with new teaching technologies—VR rooms, 3D environments, AI programs (learning Zoom already feels like last century)—I haven't had much time for long blog posts. S...
"Switching time, place, or point of view can reignite your creativity faster than waiting for inspiration to strike." I've been deep in other projects lately, but I didn't want this space to go quiet. Here's a favorite post from the archives that still feels as true as ever — because every writer needs a spark now and then. Repost from the Ar...
"Editing is not punishment. It is permission to begin again, just as teshuva allows us to return, repair, and renew." Rosh Hashanah is not only a date on the calendar. It is an invitation to pause, reflect, and begin again. In Jewish tradition, this holiday season calls us to teshuva: to return, to repair, and to renew. As writers, our manuscripts ...
When one Jewish writer publishes a novel that refuses to disappear, it signals to others: You can too. Over the past couple of years, many Jewish writers have quietly asked me the same question: Is it worth it to keep publishing Jewish stories right now? With antisemitism in publishing on the rise, in mainstream politics, on social media,...
"The Jewish year isn't just a cycle of holidays; it's a story structure waiting to be written." As writers, we're always searching for structure: beats, arcs, acts, tension curves. We study Save the Cat, the Hero's Journey, and Freytag's Pyramid. But what if the narrative rhythm we crave is already embedded in something far older: the Jew...
"Not every desk totem needs to be poetic—some of us write our best scenes next to a Viking duck." What's on your desk might say more about your writing life than you think. Writers are creatures of creativity, habit, and—let's admit it—just a touch of superstition. While some claim they can write anywhere with nothing but a laptop and a strong ...
Jewish identity often is ambivalent and that's the truth of it. A few years ago, a fellow writer sent me a short story for feedback. It featured a Jewish character who, strangely, had no cultural or emotional ties to anything remotely Jewish. This included no references to Jewish family rituals or appellations , food, holidays, not ...
"A beta reader for With A Good Eye once told me she didn't know not all Jews were rich. That sentence stayed with me." Writing Jewish Characters: Identity, Authenticity, and Avoiding Stereotypes by Gila Green After I posted about the difference between Jewish fiction and Jewish-themed fiction, and later shared the journey of taking a Jew...
Jewish-themed fiction lives in the details. Bringing Jewish Fiction to Life Jewish-themed fiction offers rich, layered storytelling, but capturing that depth on the page can be challenging. Many writers struggle to balance cultural authenticity with narrative flow, or to communicate Jewish rituals without slowing the pace. In this editing case...
What's the Difference Between Jewish Fiction and Jewish-Themed Fiction? (And Why It Matters for Writers and Readers) If you're writing a book that includes Jewish characters, history, or themes, you may have asked yourself a surprisingly tricky question: Is my work Jewish fiction—or just Jewish-themed fiction? It might seem like splitting hairs, bu...
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"Affordable Ikea hacks to upgrade your writing nook and boost your creativity!" Are you looking for affordable ways to create a writing nook or design a productive writing space at home? Whether you're a novelist, blogger, or journaler, having a dedicated writing nook can boost your creativity and writing productivity. But not everyone has ex...
Struggling to find your writing voice when juggling multiple characters or genres? Learn how to stay authentic while writing in more than one voice—and why your unique voice still matters. Why Writing in Multiple Voices Is a Modern Writer's Dilemma If you've ever asked yourself, "How do I find my writing voice?" you're not alone. But what ha...
Looking for the best spaces to write? Discover inspiring places for writers, from libraries and parks to cafés, IKEA cafeterias, and even vacation spots. For many writers, finding the right space to write can be almost as important as the writing itself. A good environment sets the mood, helps you focus, and often sparks the kind of inspiration tha...
Memoir writers do not need to choose just one name for each character—as long as the variation serves the emotional logic of the text. Memoir writing is a delicate blend of truth-telling and storytelling. It demands both the precision of memory and the fluidity of emotion. And one surprisingly complex decision memoirists often face is: what do...
As both a writer and editor, I've learned that the most powerful stories about identity and memory are often hidden in the second or third draft. by Gila Green As a writer, I've long been drawn to characters who carry fragmented memories and fractured identities—those who question where they come from and what parts of their past they're will...
"Tidying up punctuation is a simple, powerful way to make your prose shine." Spring is the season of clarity—fresh air, open windows, and the urge to declutter. But what about your writing? If you're polishing a short story, revising your novel, or getting ready to submit your manuscript, don't overlook one of the easiest ways to level up your pros...
Spring cleaning isn't just for your home—refresh your writing, declutter your drafts, and bring new energy to your creativity! spring clean your writing editing tips for writers how to improve writing clarity how to remove filler words how to organize writing projects best writing tools for organization time management for writers self-editing tips...
The Passover Haggadah is a masterclass in storytelling—repetition, engagement, and character development at its finest. Passover Haggadah storytelling lessons storytelling techniques writing tips fiction writing nonfiction writing memoir writing character development engaging readers how to keep readers hooked writing strategies storytelling strate...
Never assume that cultural boundaries are strict or unbreakable—they're often much more porous than we think. Jewish book editor Jewish sensitivity reader Writing about Jewish culture Jewish religious practices in books Writing Jewish characters Hebrew-speaking editor Ladino editor Arabic-speaking editor Avoiding cultural mistakes in writing Jewish...
As a sensitivity reader for HarperCollins Middle Grade, for example, I identified issues with an Israeli character whose syntax was incorrectly identical to that of an English speaker. I revised the dialogue to reflect authentic Israeli speech patterns, ensuring a more realistic portrayal. Another client had inaccurate religious references for Amer...
While grand gestures can be memorable, it's often the small, everyday moments that define a romance. Valentine's Day is the perfect time to celebrate love—and for writers, it's a chance to explore the complexities of romance in your stories. Whether you're working on a romantic short story, writing a love novel, or just brainstorming new romance st...
A full manuscript critique or developmental edit can be expensive, especially if your book still needs major structural work. A writing coach helps you fix big-picture issues—plot holes, pacing problems, weak character arcs—before you hire an editor. Writing a book is no small feat, and many writers underestimate just how long the process can take....
If your theme feels buried or unclear, a developmental editor can help you bring it to the surface in a way that enhances the story without feeling heavy-handed. So you've written a manuscript—congratulations! Whether you're planning to query agents or self-publish, you want your book to be as strong as possible. But how do you know if it's ready? ...
As writers, we often turn to our own lives for inspiration. Whether it's a particularly challenging relationship, a memory that has stayed with us, or even the quiet moments of daily life, our personal experiences shape the foundation of much of what we write. The beauty of writing from life lies in its authenticity—there's an emotional truth that ...
Writing is about creation—pouring out ideas and crafting stories or arguments from scratch. It's an exercise in exploration, where imperfection is part of the process. Editing, on the other hand, is about refinement. As both an editor and a writer, I often find myself navigating two very different worlds. Editing requires precision, objectivity, an...
Naming chapters is not a must for every manuscript, but it can enhance your storytelling if done thoughtfully. When it comes to naming chapters in your manuscript, the choice is ultimately yours. However, different genres often have different expectations when it comes to chapter titles. Here's a breakdown of whether or not chapters sho...
Too many headings can distract from your writing. Use them where they add value and structure. Headings and subheadings are essential tools in any writer's toolkit. Whether you are writing for print, the web, or a manuscript, these simple tools can improve readability, structure, and engagement with your audience. Here's how to effectively use head...
I want to review some key takeaways to help you get the most out of your meetings with your editor in 2025. In 2024, I had numerous Zoom meetings with writers across various genres—fiction, nonfiction, and academic writing. During these sessions, I've seen a lot of different approaches, and I want to review some key takeaways to help you get the mo...
IntroductionPublishing in academic journals is a key milestone for faculty seeking to advance their careers and share their research. Yet, the process can be daunting. This guide simplifies the journey, offering actionable steps to help you navigate the academic publishing world. Step 1: Identify the Right Journal Scope and Audience: Choose journal...
Introduction As a faculty member, your book represents years of research, thought, and dedication. Ensuring it is polished, professional, and ready for publication is crucial. But how do you choose the right editor? And what steps can you take to streamline the process? This guide offers practical advice for faculty authors seeking professional edi...
Writing a memoir involves digging deep into your life experiences, revealing vulnerabilities, and sharing personal truths. While the journey of writing can be incredibly rewarding, it also comes with the potential for criticism. Whether it's feedback from beta readers, editors, or even friends and family, how you respond to criticism can significan...
As the Jewish New Year approaches, I have begun to put together a new short story collection. My goal is to get to 10-12 brand new stories. I have about 3 so far, so my goal is to be halfway by Rosh Hashana. As I reflect on the powerful symbols of the Jewish New Year: the shofar, apples and honey, pomegranates, Tashlich, and the head of t...
"First thought best thought." by Lesléa Newman Welcome to the second installment of MY gilagreenwrites 5th anniversary celebration series! For this special occasion, I've invited some of the remarkable authors I've had the pleasure of interviewing and hosting as guest contributors on the site. These talented writers have generously...
My new blog series is all about celebrating the 5th anniversary of gilagreenwrites. To start us off, 8 authors share their best writing advice. I asked dozens of authors two questions: 1. What is the best writing advice you received that you return to again and again? 2. A do or a don't for writers Here are the first 8 answers. ...
Transitioning from writing novels to short stories has been a refreshing and invigorating experience for me. After years of immersing myself in the expansive worlds of novels (this process began in 2011 and culminated in the publication of my first novel in 2013, King of the Class), returning to the concise and focused format of short stories has r...
My summer blog post series continues. I reference Israel because that's the location I know best, but you can apply this post to summer almost anywhere. I include my own Israel sky and event photos. 1. Longer, Hotter Days Mean More Time: In Israel, the summer days are not only longer but also particularly hot, giving you more daylight ho...
Today's post is the 4th in my summer writing series. I expand on a point in yesterday's post about creative exploration in Jewish texts. Summer's break from routine is a great time to experiment with your writing. With longer days and a more relaxed schedule, it's the perfect opportunity to delve into creative exploration. One unique so...
This is the third post in my summer writing series. In this post, I will write from a specifically Jewish angle. I include my own images of Jewish writing prompts: Omer Adam concert Tel Aviv June 2024, Jerusalem Jazz Festival June 2024 and Ashdod beach July 2024. Consider the photograph itself, the venue, the atmosphere, whatever c...
I decided to write a whole series on summer writing. This post is the second summer writing post. I have always written much more in the summer than at other times of year. How is the photo of Eilat from this week? The food truck festival in Jerusalem photo? Feel free to use these photos as writing prompts. Glaze them with yo...
Embracing the Season: Summer Writing Tips for First-Time Novelists Summer is a time of warmth, relaxation, and inspiration. For first-time writers, it's the perfect season to dive into creative projects. Whether you're lounging on the beach, enjoying a quiet moment in the park, or savoring long evenings, summer offers a unique backdrop for writing....
Writing a novel is akin to weaving a complex tapestry, where each thread contributes to a rich and cohesive whole. Whether you're a seasoned writer or embarking on your first literary journey, understanding how to interlace the various elements of your narrative can transform your novel from a series of events into a compelling story. Here's ...
Who are your favorite secondary characters in literature? How have they impacted your reading experience? When crafting a compelling narrative, primary focus often falls on the protagonist and antagonist. However, secondary characters play a crucial role in enriching the story, adding depth, and providing unique perspectives. In this article,...
Discussion guides at the back of novels didn't always enjoy the prominence they do today. Their rise to popularity can be traced back to a growing desire for deeper engagement with literature, particularly in the context of book clubs and reading groups. Behind the immersive worlds and captivating characters of novels lies a hidden gem often overlo...
Writing a memoir is a deeply personal and often therapeutic journey. However, it also comes with unique challenges that can hinder your narrative's impact if not addressed. Here are the top 10 common mistakes memoir writers make and tips on how to avoid them: 1. Lack of Focus Memoirs should have a clear theme or central message. Avoid trying to cov...
Many writers don't know what to ask themselves or their editors once they have completed a first draft. Here are some common questions all writers should ask themselves and others about their work: Is my writing clear and coherent? Authors frequently seek clarity on whether their writing effectively communicates their ideas and engages readers.Does...
Middle-grade fiction often features a clear and accessible writing style that draws readers in from the first page. As an editor, delving into the world of fiction requires not only a keen eye for detail but also an understanding of the unique nuances that come with different genres and age groups. Whether you're editing middle-grade or adult...
Editing a memoir versus editing fiction involves unique considerations due to the distinct nature of the genres. Though I agree that the best memoirs read like fiction, in practice, that advice can only take you so far. Here's a list outlining some key differences: Factual Accuracy: Memoirs are based on real events and experiences from ...
When the hero or heroine faces no repercussions for their actions, the narrative lacks moral complexity. My posts are often questions I receive from actual clients. Recently, I had a client take the view that the hero can get away with a wrongdoing because "that's what happens in real life, so why not in my book?" I decided to write a post in ...
A well-qualified academic editor brings not only expertise in academia but also a breadth of experience, including meticulous research and fact-checking skills honed through creative endeavors. As scholars pursuing advanced degrees, the quality and precision of our academic writing are paramount. Whether crafting a dissertation, thesis, resea...
Recently, I've encountered manuscripts where the tone lacks consistency throughout. One moment, it adopts a conversational style, only to switch abruptly to a formal, research-oriented tone. This inconsistency is a crucial aspect writers should address. Notice how these two photos have the same tone. It's a sunny day in both photos, both are colorf...
I specialize in editing a diverse range of documents across various genres and subjects. These include novels, memoirs, middle grade and young adult fiction, academic MA and PhD theses, and nonfiction books such as memoirs, how-to guides, and self-help titles. Is your manuscript ready for submission? Whether you're a seasoned auth...
It's crucial to recognize that while the journey of writing is deeply personal, the goal of publication often requires a collaborative effort What, precisely, do book editors do? Here's an overview: Understanding the Editor's Multifaceted Role: At its essence, the role of a book editor is akin to that of a sculptor, chis...
"Spring is not just a time for new beginnings—it's also an opportune moment to get a head start on your writing projects." As the gentle warmth of spring unfurls and whispers of summer vacations drift on the breeze, it's a pivotal moment to reassess your writing goals and dive into new projects. Contrary to popular belief, waiting until the peak of...
All of my posts are derived from real questions from actual clients. So here's one I had recently: should I write from first or third person? This book is a nonfiction Holocaust memoir. Should this client write as the grandchild or try to write in the voice of the grandparent who had actually experienced the Holocaust? Point of view (POV) is a fund...
"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning," Psalms/Tehillim 30:5 As we delve into the month of Adar, traditionally associated with joy in the Jewish calendar, let's reflect on the profound connection between the joy in writing and the essence of this spirited month. The Joy in the Process: In the realm of writing, joy often...
In this post, we'll explore the importance of tailoring your editing approach to fit the specific demands of your chosen genre. When it comes to editing, one size does not fit all. Each genre comes with its own set of conventions, expectations, and unique challenges. Understanding how the nuances of different genres affect the editing process is cr...
Writing tips shouldn't focus solely on 'show don't tell' and 'read your dialogue out loud.' Part of writing well ultimately involves taking care of yourself. Finding time for nutritious meals can be a challenge for many of us who are trying to balance family and professional life, as well as meet deadlines. However, maintaining a healthy diet doesn...
"Challenge yourself to reduce the word count by a specific percentage or edit without using certain words. Constraints can lead to inventive solutions and more concise writing." The journey from the initial draft to the final polished manuscript is a crucial phase in the life of any writer. While professional editors play a vital role, the skill of...
As we step into a new calendar year, let's weave the rich tapestry of Israel and Jewish culture into our creative expressions. Whether you're a writer deeply connected to these themes or looking to explore them for the first time, these New Year writing prompts are crafted to spark your imagination with elements of Israel and Jewish iden...
For my new novel "With A Good Eye" storyboards were particularly helpful in creating my character Luna Levi and her best friend Aiden Betel. by Gila Green Characters are the heart and soul of any compelling story. They drive the narrative, engage readers, and make the fictional world come alive. To create well-rounded, relatable characters, writers...
Whether you choose to work with an editor or not, the key is to prioritize the quality of your writing and the satisfaction of your readers. Ultimately, the decision to hire an editor depends on your goals, resources, and preferences. Lately, I've seen this question repeatedly on a number of writing sites: Should I hire an editor? To save time resp...
"Remember that the emotional depth of live readings cannot be duplicated on a screen" By Gila Green In a world dominated by virtual meetings and online interactions, the allure of live performances may seem like a relic of the past. However, the magic of sharing stories in person should not be shelved in the age of Zoom. Live author performances ha...
Compared to comprehensive developmental editing or line editing, manuscript evaluations are often more affordable. If a writer is unsure about the overall viability of their manuscript, a manuscript evaluation can save time. The scenario is common. A writer gets stuck at a certain stage of the manuscript. It could be after 5,000 words or...
Through constructive feedback, encouragement, and guidance, a writing coach helps writers recognize their strengths, embrace their unique voice, and develop confidence in their abilities. A writing coach helpswriters create a schedule, set aside dedicated writing time, and provide strategies to maintain consistency and productivity. A writing ...
Dear Women 50+, It doesn't take more than a few clicks to find publications aimed at women over 50 years of age. My first try brings me to "15 Over 50 Magazines & Publications." The next article is from the Guardian informing me about the "rise of older female writers" and proclaiming that "things are definitely looking up," presumably for thos...
Maybe you suffer from writer's block or maybe you feel your writing is flat. Perhaps, you're caught in a loop in which all of your work is starting to sound the same or just boring yourself to sleep. Calls for writing are all over the internet. Use them. Anyone who writes over the long-term has periods of flat, dull and uninspi...
Keep the words you want in for authenticity and describe the scene for accessibility. Ever found yourself deleting or avoiding Jewish words and expressions in your writing (whatever Jewish means to you, Hebrew, Yiddish, Ladino)? Often writers tell me they are worried about alienating their general audience or sounding 'too Jewish' so they avo...
There are just so many problems that can be resolved in one novel. This article is advice for both editors and authors. It applies to fiction and memoir. If you think your manuscript suffers from "dancing at two weddings," I'd be happy to take a look. Many writers out there struggle with their manuscripts because they are trying to writ...
"An author working in good faith can't win at this game. If she is forced to confirm that her material is autobiographical, then she risks forfeiting both the privacy and the power of transfiguration that fiction promises. If she denies it, then she surrenders a badge of authenticity that she may never have wished to claim in the first place, and l...
Since July 2020, I've been teaching autofiction online (and now on zoom) and I've already received enough feedback to share with you not only my number one question, but the number one stumbling block at the beginning of each class. So at the risk of sounding redundant (yes, I answered this question back in June, but that was pre-teaching...
Guest post from Desiree Villena The first half of 2020 has wrought havoc on all our lives, writers and non-writers alike — but for professional authors in particular, the chaos and uncertainty of the past few months have been incredibly daunting. Book launches have been delayed, releases that forged ahead have gone unnoticed, and for some aut...
Thank you so much to Christi Craig who hosted me on her Sunday Series. From her site: In this Sunday Series, you'll meet writers new and seasoned as they share what inspires them to put #PenToPaper. I have never attended a Canadian creative writing program, so I cannot say with certainty that my distance from Ottawa, my hometown, allows me to ...
By Gila Green We live in a publishing world that not only craves categories; it demands them. These pigeonholes are like gasoline for the modern manuscript, which cannot even move through cyberspace to an agent's inbox without the fuel labeling supplies. For those who guide writers on query letters, one of our first lessons is to help authors defin...
By Gila Green When I tell people I teach a virtual flash fiction course, I often get strange responses bordering on laughter. Isn't flash fiction just really short fiction? What's the point of taking a specific Flash class? No, flash is its own genre deserving of its own class and in my opinion, it's still underrated as a way to break into p...
by Gila Green I have never attended a Canadian creative writing program, so I cannot say with certainty that my distance from Ottawa, my hometown, allows me to mentally glide over to the 1980s version of the city, pecking at bits and inserting them into my fiction, squirreling away savory pieces for later use, because I don't know any other writing...
Thanks to Chrissey Harrison for mentioning my suggestion to film an author read-aloud in her excellent post. Here she offers ten ways to promote your book and I have to agree with her number one suggestion, which is to write another book. Another book is your best marketing tool and you're a content creator after all. Check out the rest o...
By Gila Green The secret of getting ahead is getting started—Mark Twain Three deadlines coming up, dinner's not made, and you haven't even hit the grocery store yet? The short answer might be fast food or begging a colleague to take one of your assignments, but the long-term answer is to improve your efficiency. Here are eight tips to help you save...
This indirect or left-branching sentence builds tension and creates excitement because it slows down the pace of the story. by Gila Green Have you ever seen any of these comments in the margins of your work? Slow downUnevenLacks climaxFlat If you answered "yes," you should immediately browse through your writer's toolbox of literary devices for pac...
Are your notions about your birthplace outdated? By Gila Green Diction. Slang and other everyday words sneak into our vocabularies. If you don't live and write in the same language, it takes an extra effort to root foreign words out of your work, unless they're part of your story.Names. Many writers spend a great deal of time enhancing their work w...
What you need to work on in your writing isn't description it's imagery. By Gila Green If you write fiction you've probably been told dozens of times to include vivid description, work on your description, and not to forget description. Likely, you've also been reminded not to overdo it on the description. Unfortunately, being told to in...
By Gila Green We live in a publishing world that not only craves categories; it demands them. These pigeonholes are like gasoline for the modern manuscript, which cannot even move through cyberspace to an agent's inbox without the fuel labeling supplies. For those who guide writers on query letters, one of our first lessons is to help authors defin...
After writing three Jewish historical fiction novels (White Zion, Passport Control, and my as yet unpublished novel A Prayer Apart) here's my best advice for Jewish historical fiction writers: Sometimes research provides more than one answer and you'll have to use your best judgement: Someone may call you out on it but don't let that stop you...
Thanks so much to James Tormey, the host of Don Jimmy Reviews for having me on his site today. It's always a pleasure to spend time with book lovers all over the world. The Secret to Inspired Writing By Gila Green I don't get ideas. I feel ideas. Let me explain. I'm commonly asked where my ideas come from for my fiction. It's a leg...
by Gila Green Novels are peppered with males and females, young and old, witches, aliens, and murderers. Yet many writers still feel limited to topics they know inside and out. What a great pity. I published a young adult novel about a teen heroine who takes on an elephant poaching ring in South Africa's Kruger National Park and you know what? I'm ...
My "five worst writing tips" was such a popular post that today I'm re-posting more writing advice regarding what could easily have been worst writing tip number six: use the five senses. Do I disagree that we should use the five senses in our writing? Not at all. It's the number five that I disagree with. Read on to find out why. Beyond the 5...
There's more advice for writers out there than ever. You need to know that 1. A lot of it is bad 2. A lot of it doesn't apply to you; it was that writer's experience. 3. It doesn't go away, but happily, you can ignore it. Here are my top five worst pieces of writing advice: 1. Never respond to a potential publisher with mor...
1.Learn something that has nothing to do with writing--often. Take a gardening course, photography, dance, archaeology, religion, anything. Career writers must have compelling things to write about. Am I the only one who notices how often novel characters are magazine editors, journalists, and writers? Dentistry, law, accounting, welding, real esta...
If you read Passport Control, White Zion, or No Entry, please leave a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. It can be one line. It's tremendously helpful for all authors for people to leave reviews because people are naturally attracted to what others recommend. Here are some of my ideas for a one line review: I recommend this ...
"The job of the fiction writer, as I see it, is to get inside someone else's skin." by Julie Zuckerman I'm happy to present a guest post today by author and fellow writer in Israel, Julie Zuckerman. Welcome, Julie! Bio: Julie Zuckerman's fiction and nonfiction have appeared in a variety of publications, including The SFWP Quarterly, The MacG...
"Saying goodbye is the hardest part of life. We say goodbye to loved ones, to lost dreams and causes, to the crumbling expectations of life. The same is true with past books." by Rene Denfeld by Tara Lynn Masih I'm honored to have Tara Lynn Masih on gilagreenwrites. Not only does she have much wisdom to share, she has a new novel out, My Real Name ...
Like millions of other authors, I write because I have a message I'm passionate about; I want to express myself to the world. The problems with messages are long and complicated: people suffer from denial and refuse to hear them; they don't buy books to read sermons; preaching can engender resentment, come across as heavy- handed, and read as thoug...
This is a repost by fellow Stormbird Press author Rick Hodges. I enjoyed it so much I'm sharing it with you. You can read more about Rick on his site and check out his new book To Follow Elephants. I'm delighted that we are both writing about elephants and older teens traveling to Africa. I am thrilled to be publishing my first young adu...
Wanted to share this quotation I read today from prose editor at Tahoma Literary Review, Yi Shun Lai. "Years ago, I decided to stop telling young creatives that they should find what they're passionate about. Now I tell them to hunt down what they're willing to work towards. (I stole this from someone on LinkedIn and can't remember who ...
In 2013, I published my first novel, King of the Class (KOTC). Three months later, I wrote a post titled, "What I Learned from Publishing my First Novel." It was a necessary integration of what I'd gleaned after three months of full-time, dedicated hard work—the kind of twenty-four-hour work after which you can't even think about the topic. I...
I'm thrilled to be hosted on Joanna Penn's The Creative Penn today. Thank you so much for having me on your site. Writing Tips: Writing Beyond The 5 Senses The most useful way to show what you want to say is to tap into the five senses: touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing and get into the 'why' behind each sense. In other words, you must ...
I've been publishing in literary magazines since 2005 and, I admit, I'm addicted. I've had four novels accepted for publication to small presses, an offer of a young adult series and yet I always have at least a handful of submissions out there, far beyond what's considered the usual expiry date for writers. I can't seem to stop, though that's craz...
He sighs and holds his glass up remembering things that happened years ago. I try to diminish myself in my chair, so he'll see his memories and share them instead of seeing me."I begged your father to run away to the kibbutz with me. So many young people were doing it then. There was no food in Jerusalem. But he was the oldest, and he wouldn't leav...