Recently finished a book that I wanted to share with other writers out there: Revision & Self-Editing by James Scott Bell.
The book is very well done. It was one of those times when I wish I would've come across this earlier. Mr. Bell has done a wonderful job of bringing all the various sources, books, & articles around editing that I've come across into one useful volume. Every chapter gives you exercises on how to apply the techniques outlined--very effective & easy exercises.
More than just a technical manual on editing, Mr. Bell provides deep insight & expert advice on how to be a better writer & build a better story that will keep readers glued to the pages. He reviews everything from description & setting, plot & structure, to character development.
I came away with a whole list of to-dos & new ideas on how to make my book better. Now I have to get to work.
Revision & Self-Editing is definitely a 5-star rating & a must read for all writers out there!
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Friday, May 11, 2012
Nesting
I've been doing a lot of nesting lately. I'm coming up on the one-year mark in my first home. It's a nice feeling, but was also a reminder of just how little I've done since I moved in. So, I made a list of projects & things I need, and then got started.
I sorted out my entryway & mess of shoes. The thing I'm happiest with so far is making my "patio" look like a patio.
It was nice to get dirty, & sort of therapeutic. I enjoy spending time out there & often catch myself in the chair, reading, sipping coffee, & enjoying the surroundings. I just need to figure out a good way to get the dog out there with me & without running away.
As the book goes, I've started the research I need & the "stuff" I need to figure out. It's been a bit slow with the focus on nesting, but progress is progress. I have a good friend giving it a read through & I'll see if there are other things I'll need to figure out.
All in all I have to admit that I am enjoying this sabbatical. I am starting to fret a bit that I still haven't found a new day job, but am taking it as a sign that I just haven't found the right one yet. Hope it comes soon ;-).
For now, I'm off to enjoy a lovely Friday evening on the patio!
I sorted out my entryway & mess of shoes. The thing I'm happiest with so far is making my "patio" look like a patio.
It was nice to get dirty, & sort of therapeutic. I enjoy spending time out there & often catch myself in the chair, reading, sipping coffee, & enjoying the surroundings. I just need to figure out a good way to get the dog out there with me & without running away.
As the book goes, I've started the research I need & the "stuff" I need to figure out. It's been a bit slow with the focus on nesting, but progress is progress. I have a good friend giving it a read through & I'll see if there are other things I'll need to figure out.
All in all I have to admit that I am enjoying this sabbatical. I am starting to fret a bit that I still haven't found a new day job, but am taking it as a sign that I just haven't found the right one yet. Hope it comes soon ;-).
For now, I'm off to enjoy a lovely Friday evening on the patio!
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