In the Write

With multiple bids from New York publishers, my first novel sold for $150,000.   I say that mainly to get your attention; now let’s back up and talk about first novels generally. The short story is a great place to learn your fictional chops, but not every plot will fit into the “teacup” (Hortense Calisher called […]

 I’m not referring here to first lines or paragraphs, or “hooks” or anything like that.  Rather, I mean the artistic “moment” when you choose to begin typing the first  sentence.  A key error, one that I’ve made, is beginning to write too early.  Pouring the wine before its time, so to speak…. Let’s back up.  […]

        I recently spoke at writers’ conference, along with Sarah  Shumway, a bright young editor at Dutton’s children’s books, and Andrea Weiss, New York editor now working out of California.  The three of us presented to about 50 earnest, hard-working writers of all ages, and all looking to take the next step: […]