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Comparing Story Grids
When I think of some of the ‘a-ha’ moments I’ve had when developing my craft as a writing, I think of times I discovered these concepts: show verses tell; avoid on-the-nose writing; subtext in actions and dialogue. I could name many more. I like to think one of my best ‘a-ha’ moments as a writing…
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My Favorite Fiction Books from 2017
I read other books than the ones listed below, but they were non-fiction or fiction I didn’t want to include as a favorite. Speculative Fiction (Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror) A Dragon of a Different Color by Rachel Aaron This is the fourth installment of Aaron’s Heartstrikers series, the story of which proceeded nicely until…
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Five tips for new writers
I still consider myself a new writer, but I was first published at twelve years old. I won’t tell you how long ago that was, but it was before Ronald Reagan sat in the White House. Here’s the thing: you’re constantly learning as a writer. You’re learning your craft. You’re learning how to use grammar…
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Temptations to avoid when writing characters
I’ve had a great time getting to know the characters in my SF novel. A plethora of minor characters run around in my story, but I have three main ones: Bandonn FarPacer-Technology genius; while growing up, forced to fight a war on his home planet; escaped the war, and wants to be an agent for the…
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In honor of fifty years of YA novels
In honor of its fiftieth anniversary, I read The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton again after about twenty-five years. Hinton has been said to single-handedly jump started the YA publishing market. I went through a period of reading YA novels. Most of Hinton’s–That Was Then, This Is Now; Rumble Fish–and tackled Paul Zindel’s books beginning…
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Harmon’s Plot Embryo: A Writer’s Tool for both Outlining and Evaluating
I admit it: I just started watching Community. Yes, I know. Better late than never. I kept hearing how great the show was, but never got around to following it. Well, now, thanks to Hulu, I can binge watch while I’m cleaning house or laundry or whatever. Lately, though, I’ve been hearing about this “Plot…
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I just discovered this neat website for fantasy writers
I came across this online community for writers of fantasy called Mythic Scribes. Here’s how they describe themselves: “Mythic Scribes is a community of fantasy writers who are passionate about storytelling. We provide a platform for new and aspiring authors, as well as a meeting place for writers and fans of the genre. By sharing…
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The Reading Mediums
Several years ago, when I bought my Kindle, I felt like I was betraying the book publishing industry. Maybe I was. I got over it quick, though, because I love the convenience of reading a digital book. Now I read books on my iPad mini either through the Kindle app or through the public library’s…
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Andrew M. Friday 