What’s in my pocket? Hint: It’s not the one ring. It’s actually a collection of writing resources I’ve found all over the internet and kept in my handy Pocket app. Pocket is a great app that saves online articles to read later, and you can get it for Chrome, iOS, and Android. Among the many … Continue reading What’s in my pocket?
Tag: writing
Pros, cons, and tips for attending a small writer’s conference
A few years ago, I went to the 8th Annual National Latino Writers’ Conference, held at the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque NM. It was a wonderful experience, and one I’d love to do again. It gave me an opportunity to meet other writers, celebrate my heritage, and learn about publishing. As far as … Continue reading Pros, cons, and tips for attending a small writer’s conference
When there is no hope, you write anyway
Thanks to the fickle magic of Twitter, I came across a quote that seemed especially meaningful to me right now. It's from my favorite literary badass, Junot Díaz. Díaz spent ten years writing the book that would eventually win him the Pulitzer Prize. This quote makes me wonder if there was a moment, or many … Continue reading When there is no hope, you write anyway
How to critique a story (and get some eyes on yours)
There comes a moment in the creative process when one set of eyes isn’t enough, and you need to find someone to critique your work. At the same time, you’ll probably need to do some critiquing of your own, either to reciprocate or just to improve your own skills. Here are some tips on how … Continue reading How to critique a story (and get some eyes on yours)
World building resources
The beautiful thing about writing a sci-fi or fantasy novel is that you get to create a whole world unlike any other for your novel. The terrifying thing about writing a sci-fi or fantasy novel is that you have to create a whole world unlike any other for your novel. If you’re about to take … Continue reading World building resources
How to Write a Psychopath
Psychopaths can be tricky to write, because it’s not always easy (I hope!) to get into the head of someone who lacks remorse, empathy, and a sense of morality. Psychopathy is often a misunderstood concept, even among psychologists. So here’s a little guide to help you come up with the perfect psychopath, evil laughter included. … Continue reading How to Write a Psychopath
Author Interview: Hector Kopczynski
Welcome to the fourth in a series of author interviews. Today I'm talking to Hector Kopczynski about sexuality and gender in writing, building a truly foreign fantasy world, and reading with a critical eye. Hector is currently working on both an epic fantasy project and a gritty spy thriller. Sarah: Currently you’re working on two very different … Continue reading Author Interview: Hector Kopczynski
Author Interview: Jeanne Marcella
Welcome to the third in a series of author interviews! Today I'm talking with fantasy author Jeanne Marcella about inspiration, self-publishing, and what it's like to write outside the norm. I'm thrilled to talk to the wonderful author of The Phoenix Embryo about her creative process and experience. Sarah: You’ve described your work as transgressive dark … Continue reading Author Interview: Jeanne Marcella
7 Podcasts where you can meet the author
I love to hear authors talk about their work and their craft. It's a good reminder that everyone has a different process and a different technique, and it's fascinating to see the work and thought that went into some brilliant, beautiful books. Here are seven podcasts where you can hear authors answer interview questions and … Continue reading 7 Podcasts where you can meet the author
Creative procrastination: 11 questions to ask your characters
When I’m staring at a blank page, eyes unfocused, fingers drooping over the keyboard, sometimes I realize I’m just not going to get any drafting done today. That’s when I procrastinate turn to other exercises that help me develop my novel. One technique I like is to do a character sheet, where I examine different … Continue reading Creative procrastination: 11 questions to ask your characters