Ms. Cole is not only an author with a MFA in Creative Writing, but she is also a literary agent at Movable Type Management (MovableTM.com). This positions her to not only teach you how to write but what to write if you're looking for the best chance of publication. I'm only half-way through the book and I've learned so much.
She gives you a market overview, a MG/YA mindset, story building ideas, storytelling foundations, character development, plot development, advanced kidlit info and career advice. There are writing exercises throughout the book to give you an opportunity to put what you're learning into action. It is published by Writer's Digest Books which I have found to put out superior products.
Another equally valuable book by Writer's Digest Books is Writer Mama, How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids, by Christina Katz. I originally checked this book out of the library and knew I had to purchase it because it is just that good. She leads you through; finding the easiest routes to publication, networking, writing cover letters and queries, choosing your writing speciality, creating web presence, setting up office, and making time for everything. It is all from the viewpoint of a mom for moms. This book too has lots of practical exercises for you to work on. It retails for $15.
I've read a lot of books about the craft of writing but these two are tops!
UPDATE: Just found out that as of 7/31/13 Mary Kole has left Moveable Type Management and is no longer a literary agent. She is however opening her own freelance editing biz and is still blogging at kidlit.com. You can read about these changes HERE.
No comments:
Post a Comment