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...