We’ve come a long way in these last few weeks. I know some of you have received wonderful news of an offer from an agent or editor. Others have new contracts. Sadly, some received disappointing news. We’ve talked a lot about that. Hopefully, you’ve been able to put some of my suggestions in place to help you through that emotion. When dealing with disappointment—or any negative emotion—there comes a time when we just have to pick ourselves up by the boot straps and move on. Easier said than done. I get that. I really do, but at some point, you’re only hurting yourself if you don’t. Here are a few things to keep in mind as decide to move on. 1) Leave it in the history books. Regardless of how […]
Read the RestArchive | October, 2012
Storytelling vs. Backstory
We’re continuing to blog questions from blog readers and MBT Voices. If you have a question, be sure to email me at Rachel@mybooktherapy.com. So, here’s today’s question. Q: How do I add “storytelling elements” to my novel without dumping backstory? A: The balance between back story and the action on the page is tricky but not hard. Let’s look at a few definitions before we outline some guidelines for weaving back story into a scene. Story telling elements are just those fragments of a characters life, history, wants, goals and desires that are necessary for filling out or understanding a scene. The trick is to deliver just enough emotion and history to intrigue the reader while filling them in on what’s going on. For example, if Sally is not excited […]
Read the RestThe What and Why of Writing: Values
“It’s not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are.” ~Roy Disney (1930-2009), longtime senior executive for The Walt Disney Company Every day we make decisions. And if we stopped and really thought about it, we’d realize we made those choices based on our values – the things that are important to us. Or as Proverbs so aptly puts it: Everyone does what is right in his (or her) own eyes. (Proverbs 21:2) Guess what? The imaginary characters in our books? They have to do the very same thing: make choices based on their values. What: Values Things we desire, whether we have them or not, such as forgiveness, honesty, money, compassion, power and trust Why: We don’t like it when we wander around aimlessly, not sure […]
Read the RestJust for fun! The Pizza Party Video
I’m on the road today – so there’s not conversation with Sally. Instead, check out this video from our 2012 Wild West Pizza Party at ACFW! Thank you to videographer Justin Auguste for his amazing, creative work! To save, right click on the link below and “save link as” to your local computer. Video Edition Thanks for a great time, MBT Voices! See you next year! Susie May
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