Guides readers in writing and publishing a book, including creating authentic characters, editing, and finding an agent.

A complete and concise guide to writing and selling long and short fiction, including outlining, narrative writing, details, description, pacing, and action.

KEY BENEFITS: A comprehensive exploration of fiction and nonfiction -- from the fundamentals of writing simply and directly to preparing a complete manuscript to approaching a publisher. KEY TOPICS: Selecting characters; using classic "hooks," creating effective dialog; developing theme fiction, fantasy, and sagas; do's and dont's of query letters; writing an interview; finding an agent; and analyzing contracts and royalties.

For an aspiring novelist, nothing is more intimidating than a blank page or computer screen. This step-by-step guide helps you get past that hurdle, start writing, and cross the finish line to first draft in only twenty-six weeks! This guide covers the entire novel-writing process--from polishing an idea to finding an agent and submitting to publishers. This practical guide takes you through the ins and outs of writing and publishing your first book, including how to: Create authentic characters, engaging plotlines, and believable settings Edit for tone, structure, and pacing Find the right agent Market and sell your work to publishers Build a career as a novelist Complete with writing exercises, inspiring examples, and expert advice from bestselling novelists, this book is an excellent starting place for anyone interested in the art, craft, and business of writing fiction.

Provides information for older authors on coming up with ideas, writing fiction and non-fiction books, publishing and marketing a book, and writing and submitting magazine articles.

A guide to the names and specialites of publishers, editors, and literary agents that deal with children's literature.

Build a fully developed, multi-layered story from the ground up! Writing a story is not that much different than building a house. Both require some brainstorming (to provide a clear vision), a blueprint or outline (to lay a solid foundation upon which that vision can be built), building or drafting (to make the vision a reality), and decorating or revising (to polish the masterpiece and make it presentable to the public). In From First Draft to Finished Novel, novelist Karen S. Wiesner carefully explores each of these stages, showing you how to: Create a quick outline to help organize and expand your original idea Develop a detailed Story Plan Checklist to solidify your story's details Combine and effectively use tools like your outline and story checklist to weave together a cohesive draft Put together a strong query letter and submission package This book also features exclusive worksheets, checklists, and detailed examples designed to help you: Improve your outlining techniques through the use of character, plot, and setting sketches Write a strong Story Plan Checklist that ensures your characters evolve and your plot progresses Develop your editing skills using revision and "punch" checklists Whether you're working on a new story or a project in development, From First Draft to Finished Novel is your blueprint to a story readers won't be able to resist.