“Every writer I admire is my teacher.” Sandra Cisneros
A Writing Tool
Why is word count so important? Books are purchased and marketed, by genre. Whether they like romance, science fiction, or thrillers, readers have expectations about the books they read. Most people heading out for summer vacation aren't going to buy, much less read, a five-hundred-page chick lit novel.
Writer's Digest has put together a good article and fun info-graphic on this topic.
Emotional Tip
How long will it be before you call yourself a writer? If you are actively writing a book, or short stories or poetry for that matter, you are a writer. There are two reasons you might shy away from the word. The first is that you may be something else when you aren't writing, perhaps something that makes "writer" seem trifling, a hobby, not a serious pursuit. This happened with me. How do you describe yourself as a writer, when your job description was executive for so many years? The second reason is more insidious. It is because you don't think you're good enough for the moniker. You are. Don't let a lack of confidence or courage stop you from claiming your title.
There's a Story Here: Peloton in the Pyrenees, 1997
What story would you write about this photo?
Next Step Book Coach - If you're ready to start your novel, are stuck in the middle, or have finished and need to know what to do next - we can help.