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RESOURCES FOR WRITERS |
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PREPARATION
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Read—a lot. Write—a lot. Revise—a lot!
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PRACTICE
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Study your craft, get critiques (see BELOW), research agents, learn about the industry, find your community.
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POSITIVE ATTITUDE
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There will be rejection and hard times, but also times to celebrate; try to celebrate even the small achievements.
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PERSISTENCE
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You’ll only achieve your goal if you do the work; it only takes one “yes,” and you won’t get that “yes” if you quit.
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WRITE!
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The more practice you get writing, the better writer you'll become. You'll start to learn about your writer voice, who you are as a writer, what you like to write, and what you don't.
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REVISE!
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You've written a book--congratulations! But the real work comes when you revise.
Not sure where to start? Try the big things (structure, plot, theme) and move your way toward smaller things (language, word choice). Share your work with your critique partners! Find a few writers (preferably who write in the same format/genre) and exchange work. They will be able to point out the strengths and weaknesses of your stories. You can also purchase professional critiques (see BELOW for my services). The more you give and receive critiques, the better writer you will become. |
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READ!
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Go to the library or bookstore and read in the category/genre you think you want to write. Read newly published books. Look at what kinds of stories are being published now. The more you read in your genre, the more familiar you'll be with how these books are written, what sells, what you like, what you don't like, and more.
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CONNECT
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with other children’s writers/illustrators. We are a friendly, supportive group!
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LEARN
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about your craft. There are TONS of resources out there! Click HERE for a list.
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Critique Services AvailableI offer a limited number of individual critiques for picture book manuscripts and query letters (non-rhyming preferred; no free-verse, please). I will provide feedback on plot, character, theme, language, and more. See below for rates. If you are interested in hiring me for critique services, please fill out my contact form.
Rates* Written critique on one picture book manuscript (up to 800 words) - $65
* Above plus 30-minute zoom follow-up session - $90 * Written critique on one picture book manuscript (up to 800 words) and query letter - $90 * Above plus 30-minute zoom follow-up session - $115 |
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"When I met Heather for the first time, I had recently finished my first picture book manuscript. I knew I needed help from someone who was experienced, and had the knowledge I needed to get my manuscript polished and ready for submission. From her first critique, I knew I had found the right person. She has such an incredible gift for knowing what you’re trying to say, and guides you with support, and expertise until it comes through on the page. She thoroughly knows the genre, the market, and is the queen of comp titles. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for help in making their manuscript shine, and getting their query ready for submission." -- Sarah Rodvelt
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"Heather’s thorough and thoughtful critiques have consistently taken my manuscripts to the next level. Whether she's reducing word count, strengthening character arcs, or simplifying plots, her insight is invaluable. She’s the first person I turn to when I finish a manuscript. Heather's encyclopedic knowledge of picture books makes her an excellent go-to for comp titles. Her feedback always includes praise for what’s working in my stories, which I greatly appreciate. I cannot recommend Heather’s critiques enough!" – Melissa McDaniel |