Below are two helpful resource lists you can download. The first, Resources for Writers, is one I hand out at writers' conferences and other places where I lead workshops and talk about writing. The second, Books for Writers, is a list of what I think are some of the most helpful and useful books for writers who want to be published, either for the first time or again.
Click the above link to down a PDF file of my Writers Resource list from the Harriette Austin Writers Conference, July 18, 2009.
Click on the link above to download a list of suggested books for writers to read and study.
I'm often asked if I have any advice for writers. You can read the short version of my "tips for writers" below.
Tips for Writers
1.) Read, read, read, especially the types of books you plan to write.
2.) Write, write, write. You may have to write many words before you write any that are worthy of publication.
3.) Become a rewriting expert. A big part of writing for publication is learning to rewrite. An excellent book on this subject is Novel Metamorphosis: Uncommon Ways to Revise by Darcy Pattison, 9780979862106. Note: This is one of the books on the Books for Writers list you can download using the link near the top of the page.
3.) Join the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and also find a good local or online writers' group. To read about my writers' group, click here. Click here to visit the SCBWI website.
4.) Create a platform, even before you're published. Definition of a platform: Platform encompasses all the ways you are visible and appealing to your future, potential, or actual readership. Platform development is important not only for authors; it's also crucial for aspiring and soon-to-be authors. Your platform includes your Web presence, public speaking, teaching, your publication credits, and any other means you have for making yourself known to a viable readership.--from Get Known Before the Book Deal: Use Your Personal Strengths to Grow an Author Platform by Christina Katz, 9781582975542. Note: This is one of the books on the Books for Writers list you can download at the top of this page.
Links for Writers
Tips for Writers on Twitter.com
Uploading a Photo (and making it your profile photo) on Facebook.
Read About Tuesday Children Writers
Read About Powersurge Writers Group
Read About Sub Rosa in the Shoals Writers Group