Archives:

Tip#1: Begin at the beginning

Tip #2: See the whole

Tip #3: Learn to walk before you run

Tip #4: Read, read, read!

Tip #5: Never take advice from blowhard authors with personal websites

Tip # 6: Strive for a story that resonates

Tip # 7: Never write a second book

Tip # 8: Write a book that you would love to read

Here's a sequel to the advice I gave you last time. In addition to writing what you LOVE, make sure, once you're finished, you sit down in a quiet, well-lighted place and read your manuscript from top to bottom in one great gulp.

I am continually amazed at how many students and writer hopefuls refuse to read their whole work straight through when they're done.

It is absolutely imperative that you do this. It is the only way to learn whether or not the piece works. Trust me. Read your whole book after you're done. It should be a pleasant experience, if it's working. If it's not -- if the manuscript needs work -- you'll know. Believe me...you'll know.