Tag
July 18, 2020
Have you ever used writing prompts before? Most have. If you haven't, it's likely just a matter of time until you succumb to the cold, boring grasp of writer's block. Even if you are overflowing with ideas to write or blog about, writing prompts are still a powerful tool for writers of all experience levels. Here's how to use writing prompts most effectively.
February 9, 2018
Lisa Connors is a children's author, nature writer, educator, and lifelong student of the natural world. Through both fiction and nonfiction, she aims to spark curiosity and help young readers develop a deeper appreciation for science, wildlife, and the environment. In this interview, we discuss writing for children, self-publishing versus traditional publishing, working with illustrators, creative perseverance, and the importance of staying curious throughout life. Although this conversation took place in 2018, many of the lessons about creativity, publishing, and lifelong learning remain just as relevant today.
November 4, 2017
My brother, Thane Keller, is a science fiction author, U.S. Army veteran, husband, and father. His experiences serving in Iraq and Afghanistan have influenced both his worldview and the stories he writes. In this interview, we discuss self-publishing, writing discipline, military influence on storytelling, building fictional worlds, and what aspiring authors can learn from the long process of finishing books. Although this conversation took place in 2017, many of the lessons about persistence, creativity, and craftsmanship remain just as relevant today.
August 28, 2017
Some children’s books entertain for a few minutes and are quickly forgotten. Others stay with both children and adults long after the final page. Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen, is one of those rare picture books. Beneath its simple premise is a surprisingly clever lesson in suspense, storytelling, illustration, curiosity, and perseverance.
August 22, 2017
Books are often treated like products, but the best books do far more than fill shelf space or generate sales. A meaningful story can challenge beliefs, shape emotions, create connection, inspire change, and stay with readers for years after the final page. That is why writing books is not simply about producing content. Great books provide an experience — one that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
August 20, 2017
Writers often spend most of their time talking about finished books, but some of the most valuable insights come from the work happening behind the scenes — revision, rejection, publishing, editing, and learning how stories evolve before readers ever see them. In this interview, author James Conan shares his thoughts on short stories, publishing, creative growth, digital storytelling, rejection, and what it really takes to improve as a writer over time.
August 17, 2017
You’ll often hear writers say authors are not really in competition with one another. At first glance, that can sound naïve. Bookstores have limited shelf space, search engines have limited visibility, and readers only have so much money and attention to give. But readers are rarely satisfied with just one book, one genre, or one author for very long.