Writers Read

One of the best things you can do as a writer is read. Read in your genre and out of your genre.

Some writers say they don’t have time to write, much less read. Think about that for a moment. If they don’t have time to write are they even writers. Don’t get me wrong, I totally understand the not having time issue, but you must make time for writing. And, you must make time to read.

By reading, you ingest what other writers do. You may not even realize it at first, but your subconscious is a sponge and it’s soaking it all up.

If you are anything like me, reading is what brought about the dream of writing in the first place. So, why would you quit now? You can learn from reading good writing, but you can also learn by reading bad writing. Those books that make you think, “I can do better than that,” can get the ball running on your next big story.

I will admit when reading some great books I may slump and say, “I can’t do that.” But, I push forward and say, “But I’ll give it a shot.”

For those of you struggling for time, audio books are a great solution. It is also a great learning experience for all writers. Listening to a book is different than reading one. You will discover a whole new world and a different outlook on the books you read.

Reading can be inspirational and can lead you to new story ideas. You can pull themes, characters, and even settings from the books you read. Now, I’m not saying go write the newest version of Stephen King’s, Under the Dome. But I am saying keep an open mind while you read and let ideas float around.

So, what are you reading?

Friends Forever

In October, my short story, "Friends Forever," was accepted by Untied Shoelaces of the Mind.

It has now been published in their fourth issue.

If you'd like to read "Friends Forever," go here.

There is a section to leave comments at the end of the story. I welcome feedback both at the site and here on my blog.

Rejection

In honor of my first rejection of the year, let's talk about Rejection.

How to avoid rejection: Write a good story, edit your work, and format correctly to guidelines.

How to prepare for rejection: Expect it. The chance of rejection is far more likely than an acceptance.

How to benefit from a rejection: A rejection is not a bad thing. Editors have a multitude of stories to go through, and it shouldn't take you by surprise when you receive one. The important thing is to benefit from it.

Different types of rejections:

The dreaded form rejection: Sadly, we regret to inform you that we are declining acceptance at this time. Good luck in placing this submission elsewhere.

You picked the wrong market rejection: Thank you for your story to our magazine, but unfortunately it isn't quite right for us. We hope that you continue trying, however, and look forward to many more submissions.

The personal rejection: Unfortunately, we must decline acceptance at this time. While the editors felt there was some nice description, the piece did not feel complete. But thanks for your interest in our magazine, and best of luck in placing your work with other markets.

The delayed outcome: Your story has moved to the next stage.

The acceptance letter: Congratulations, your story has been accepted for publication.

How to benefit: Rejection - send your story back out, unless otherwise noted by editor.

There is one other type of letter you may receive, but I do not have a sample of such letter. In some cases, the editor will ask for a revised version of the story.

In case of acceptance: Throw a party!

Feel free to share your experiences in the publishing world and share advice to other writers.

Stylish Blogger Award

I'd like to thank Chandra for this beautiful Stylish Blogger Award.

The rules for accepting this award are as follows:
*Thank and link to the person who awarded you this award
*Share 7 things about yourself
*Award 10 recently discovered great bloggers
*Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award

About me:
1- I've always wanted to be a published novel writer
2- I had a passing dream at an early age of being a ballerina
3- I have two brothers and two sisters
4- I am intrigued by the unknown: spirit guides, alternate realms, etc.
5- The genre I write most in is paranormal suspense, sometimes classified as horror
6- I also write a blog on the Tarot
7- I hope to one day write full-time

I went on a little tour and found new blogs to follow. I pass this Stylish Blogger Award to:

1- Beth Revis of Writing It Out
2- WritingNut of Writing In A Nutshell
3- Daily Draw / A Tarot Journey
4- Tarot Gals
5- Donea Lee of Queen of Procrastination
6- Catherine A Winn of The Writing Room
7- Manda of 78 Whispers In My Ear

Hope you all enjoy your awards. Best wishes!