Hi Friends,
I’m going to ramble a bit, then I’m going to give some writing advice below, and finally, once you’re sick of me, I’ll wrap up with some announcements!
November Musings
The world remains a really tough place.
Of course, I write that as I’m sitting in arguably one of the safest locations in the world (privilege acknowledged).
Still, while I am not one of those individuals facing horrible conditions, I can certainly try and empathize. In fact, that’s the least any of us can do. It’s a requirement for writers like myself, whose entire job is to create stories that, hopefully, can spread empathy.
So, that’s what I’ve been up to. Spreading empathy through storytelling. In particular, I’ve been helping my second novel about a 12-year-old Arab American boy, Shad Hadid and the Forbidden Alchemies, find its readers. Bookstore events, conferences, social media…I’m doing it all
But, perhaps some of you don’t know, I’ve also been teaching aspiring authors. With wonderful organizations like the Highlights Foundation, Gotham Writers Workshop, and the Maine Writers and Publisher Foundation, I’ve been leading workshops and classes in hopes of helping many new books find their way into the world. And let me tell you, it has been inspiring.
I seriously advise anyone who needs help reconnecting to their love of a craft to teach a class or two in it. The passion and dedication of these students serve to remind me, among other things, that I’m very lucky to make a career out of storytelling. Lucky to enjoy deep conversations with my students, fellow authors, readers, and some of you living outside of this literary bubble (yes, I like you too!).
So, in sum, things are bleak and it’s my responsibility (I dare say it is your responsibility as well) to extend our empathy and compassion for those suffering, to acknowledge our privilege, and to take action.
Nobody ever changed the world by sitting around (unless, of course, you are sitting and writing)!
Writing Advice
I recently sat with an aspiring author who offered to take me to lunch (and I never say no to a free lunch!), which was a lovely experience.
While they described their story, I asked, “Well, what’s the point?”
Their eyes widened. “Point? I guess, to give readers a fun adventure. Isn’t that enough?”
Friends, it is not enough to have the point of what you’re writing be ‘fun’, especially should that manifest in a long-form novel. ‘Fun’ is what your readers will have if you are crafting a well-made novel, and you do that first by clearly embedding a deeper message into your story.
What are some examples of these? Here are a few:
We can’t overcome all our challenges alone
We can trust others, even if we’ve been hurt before
Revenge is not the answer to my problems
You can make a difference if you try hard enough
These are just a small sampling of important messages to deepen your story, and there are many, many more you can use as well.
No matter what you write, be sure you can clearly say, “This is what I want readers to take away.” That deeper point will keep your writing focused and it will keep you aligned to a higher purpose. Something that will help you finish your novel, since finishing is not easy.
Announcements
I don’t actually have all that much going for the rest of November!
Am I taking a break? Don’t be silly! This workaholic never takes breaks. I’ll be planning for December when I:
Teach a two-day Writing for Children intensive at Gotham Writers
Attend New Jersey’s School Librarian Conference
Struggle to find gifts (my books make GREAT gifts, by the way 😉)
ALSO, I’m re-opening spaces for new freelance editing clients and am discounting all services through the end of the year!
Please reach out if you want a published author’s eyes on your work, or just want to chat about writing, agents, or publishers. I offer developmental editing, line editing, query critiques, and more!
Learn more about what I offer here.
Closing
I hope you all have a wonderful rest of the month. If you celebrate Thanksgiving, do reflect on your privilege. We’re all so very lucky to be here when so many are struggling, so let’s not take a single moment for granted.
Continue to read books, write stories, and show empathy, my friends!