Got linky-links? Why, yes, I do.This set is targeted toward writers, and the links point to essays or sites that mostly interest or entertain, but one of them nudge us into dropping a bad habit or two. (All right, already! I'll drink more water.)
First up, romantic comedy/mystery writer Anne R. Allen points out the flaws in nine frequently repeated pieces of writing advice. Here's how she counters the chestnut that all protagonists must be admirable: "Saints are boring in fiction, unless they liberate France and get burned at the stake, and that’s been done." Read her full post here.
Chuck Wendig, whose debut novel, DOUBLE DEAD, comes out this month, shares the twenty-five qualities a book must have to keep him (and the rest of us) reading. The following is from trait #16: "A story that becomes something other than it seems — that pivots hard and shows you a whole new face — is a powerful thing, and compelling enough to drag me into its turbulent waters." Wendig's full post is here.
Jenny Hansen, the writer behind the More Cowbell blog, offers three rules for success in writing and in life.
Social-media expert Kristen Lamb reminds writers that health comes before wealth and is essential to maintaining page counts. Here, she offers tips for getting and staying in tip-top shape.
Blogger Coleen Patrick takes a look at some novels' memorable first lines. What's your favorite?
Having trouble maintaining your NaNo word count? This site is all kibble, no stick.
Finally, Kristan Hoffman offers writers two quizzes to test our understanding of what really matters to readers. Hint: it's not the number of our Twitter followers. Test yourself here.
15 comments:
I love the first line of Their Eyes Were Watching God: "Ships at a distance have every man's wish on board."
Love these links, Pat! Thanks!
I'm soooo happy to hear I can forget this rule:
7) Describe characters' physical appearance in detail.
It also makes me crazy when a contest judge asks how the hero smells because someone has drilled her with "use all the senses." Hint, if his scent is important to the story, I'll let you know. :-)
Wow, Amy, that first line is so good I'm going to order the book. Thank you.
Yes, Lark!!! If a character is described to the nth degree, the reader can't superimpose his or her imaginings and impressions.
Wonderful mashup of links, Pat. I've read some of these but others are new to me.
And Lark, I'm laughing at your comment about contest judges and how the hero smells. I just had one of those! :)
What a great mashup, Pat. Thanks!
Great links! Thanks for sharing.
Hi, Sheila,
It's a given that our heroes smell better than the Old Spice guy--so we don't think to mention it.
Glad some of the links were new to you.
Have a great weekend.
Hi, Lynn,
Alas, my mashup lacks the cachet of Star Wars. Sigh. Those of us you can't be as funny as you do the best we can--and register for your posts.
Happy Two-Year Blogiversary, Julie. I'm in awe.
I just love it when I come across links to great posts. I'm so busy writing my own novel and blogging to help others, that I sometimes miss a lot. Thanks for being a "Helper"
www.jennifermeaton.com
These links are great, Pat. thanks for compiling them making it easy for the rest of us to follow up
It takes one to know one, Jennifer. I just read your "big decision" blog post, and its timing couldn't have been better for me. I have to make changes in the wip, but have I made them? Decision time.
You're welcome, Louise, and thank YOU for stopping by.
Hi Pat! Thanks so much for including me in your links!
I am off to check out the other links, hope you have a great thanksgiving (your cranberry recipe with orange peel sounds yum btw)!
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