Do I have to be an Illustrator?

"Do I have to be an illustrator to publish my stories?"
In most cases the answer is no.

Writing for Children

Fiction Books
Children's book editors generally prefer to choose the illustrator although you can make recommendations. You must be careful though, you don't want to take away the joy or vision that the editor has for your manuscript.
Illustrations account for most of a picture book's appeal. If your determined to send in your own illustrations be sure they meet or exceed the quality of your writing. Personally, I would recommend submitting your work separately unless you feel your illustrations are critical to the work. You might consider noting that you are also an illustrator and including your sample card*.

When submitting your story you may make illustration notes. Remember an editors' time is in high demand. All writing and notations should be kept brief and necessary. If it's obvious don't note it!

Non Fiction Books
If it is a family story you may want to submit photos and etc. Otherwise, they generally use a vast database of professional photos. If you have quality photos that would work well or are necessary for the book I'd suggest sending quality copies. Four to six to a page for easy reference. I would always note that the photos are suggestions only. It's better to sell your story than lose it because they're not interested in the photos.

Magazines
Magazines are more receptive to an author's illustration or two.

Writing For Adults

Books and Magazines
Illustrations are not necessary for adult fiction books. Although, I've been told that publishers of both adult magazines and non fiction books are encouraged by quality photos. Don't let a lack of photos hold you back from your writing. Write first, play with photos later.

Twenty Minute Challenge

I challenge all beginning writers to write at least twenty minutes a day.

Write it out, print it out, and stick it on the wall. Schedule it in your calendar. Then just do it!

It doesn't matter what it's about. If you can't think of enough to say write about yourself. Let your spirit guide you.

Good Luck! Let me know how you do.

Cindy

Christian Writers of the Boise Area

Idahope Writers is a local chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers.

Monthly meetings are held at Rediscovered Books.

Fourth Thursday 6:30pm-8:00pm

They're also hosting a writers conference in January 30-31, 2009.
Early registration ends Dec. 31, 2008.

Learn more at http://www.idahopwriters.org/ or http://www.idahopewriters.blogspot.com/

Personal History Prompts 3

• What kind of jobs did you have while still in High School?
• What was your pay?
• What was your favorite part about the job?
• What was your least favorite part about the job?
• Share a memorable experience on the job.

Fiction Prompts 1

Goal: To use clues such as names, setting, clothing, language, body language, and/or behavior to make the reader aware of the characters' personalities.

Describe how a very selfish girl persuades her conservative father to loan her his new car.

Tip: Don't get too descriptive. Keep it simple and natural.

Personal History Prompts 2

• When did you get your first car?


• Describe your first car. What were his/her good and not so good points?


• How did you pay for it?


• Where did you go?

Personal History Prompts 1

• Where did you grow up? (Pick one place for today)
• What particular landmark do you think of first and why?
• Who were your close friends?
• What did you do for fun?

Find Out What Others Are Reading!

Find out what people are reading by joining www.goodreads.com

GoodReads.com offers a place to;

share, rate, and/or comment on books,

join forums or groups,

and meet authors.

You may even find old friends, like I did.

Check it out, you never know what or who you might find.

What's holding you back? Sign up now!

www.goodreads.com

Boise Writing Groups

Nonfiction Writers Group
1st Wednesday of every month

Rediscovered Bookshop
7079 Overland Rd., 6:00 p.m.
Boise, ID 83709
(208) 376-4229


Christian Fiction Writers Group
4th Thursday of every month

6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.

Contact Angela at (208) 484-0498

Rediscovered Bookshop
7079 Overland Rd.,

Boise, ID 83709 (208) 376-4229

http://idahopewriters.blogspot.com/

Where to Start?

The options are seemingly endless, the resources are vast, but the consensus is clear;

write today and every day.

Schedule it into to your life. Whatever path to writing you pursue start with Writing Today!

Write

To begin writing you must exercise your writing muscles everyday. Begin journalling, write letters, begin a blog, or start a story the important thing is to just write. Don't worry about your grammar and spelling (just don't send anything to a publisher or editor until you do). You can pick up the rest along the way.

Read

Find your favorite books. Why you can't put them down? Why do you Love them? Why do you love to hate them?

Mentors

Look up your favorite authors of this period. Find their web pages. Many authors share valuable advice about their craft on their web pages. Be sure to check my space and goodreads for sites as well. Often your critique group leader is your most valuable resource. Some writer's societies/groups also offer a mentor program for serious writers.

Writer's Groups and Conferences

Writer's societies and groups are very helpful in getting to know other aspiring writers and to learn from veterans in the field as well past and current editors. Writer's groups can open many doors for the aspiring writer.

There are many writing groups out there. Search the web, ask anyone you know, and be sure to check with your local bookstores. In Boise near where I live Rediscovered Bookshop hosts writer's groups, conferences, and book signings. I've belonged to Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustrators and love the being involved with them. I've also come across teen writer's groups online. There are conferences all over the country every year to meet different needs of writers. Check them out!

Critique Group

The best leaven for a manuscript is a good critique. Search out your area for knowledgeable writers. Join their group. One good critique can save the aspiring writer days if not weeks of labor. Remember a critique is not personal and nothing ventured nothing gained. Take a deep breath and share. Most people are sensitive to newcomers but if their not be all the more determined to make the best of their advice. More on this another time.

Self Education

Books on writing can be invaluable. Try not to get too caught up in the technicalities of writing at first. Allow your stories to evolve naturally. Thus said, I'd also like to say a little knowledge about characterization, plot development, and writing for your audience will greatly increase your quality of work.

Some books that were referred to me were Writing the Natural Way by Gabrielle Rico and Bird by Bird by Anne La Mott. There was another but I've forgotten it now. It basically tells of the rise and fall of a good story line. I'm currently studying Characters Make Your Story by Maren Elwood. It's an older book but it's full of timeless advice.