If you've ever thought about writing The Great American Novel, now may be the time to give it a try. For the last decade, aspiring writers have been putting themselves to the ultimate test during the month of November by attempting to write a 50,000 word novel in just 30 days. The project is called NaNoWriMo.
Writing a novel in 30 days sounds impossible, right? That's precisely why it works for so many people - by focusing on word count and a ridiculous deadline, writers force themselves to ignore their inner critics and concentrate on just getting words on paper. Those words can always be edited later, but if they never make it to the page the novel will never get written. As NaNoWriMo writers say, "Rewrites begin in December."
If you decide to give NaNoWriMo a try, here are some books to help you with your craft:
| No Plot? No Problem!: A Low-Stress, High-Velocity Guide to Writing a Novel in 30 Days Find this book in our catalog. The founder of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), which is conducted each fall, reveals the secrets writing a complete novel in only 30 days. This handbook is the ultimate guide for would-be writers (or those with writer's block) to cultivate their creative selves. Chris Baty, motivator extraordinaire and instigator of a wildly successful writing revolution, spells out the secrets of writing--and finishing--a novel. Every fall, thousands of people sign up for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), which Baty founded, determined to (a) write that novel or (b) finish that novel in--kid you not--30 days. Now Baty puts pen to paper himself to share the secrets of success. With week-specific overviews, pep 'talks, ' and essential survival tips for today's word warriors, this results-oriented, quick-fix strategy is perfect for people who want to nurture their inner artist and then hit print! Anecdotes and success stories from NaNoWriMo winners will inspire writers from the heralding you-can-do-it trumpet blasts of day one to the champagne toasts of day thirty. Whether it's a resource for those taking part in the official NaNo WriMo event, or a stand-alone handbook for writing to come, "No Plot? No Problem!" is the ultimate guide for would-be writers (or those with writer's block) to cultivate their creative selves.
|
| The Everything Creative Writing Book: All You Need to Know to Write a Novel, Short Story, Screenplay, Poem, or Article Find this book in our catalog. "The Everything Creative Writing Book" explains in simple terms how to express ideas correctly. This easy-to-follow reference teaches readers the basics of good writing and how to develop a writing style. The secrets to good writing -- in any formatEveryone wants to master creative writing -- whether you are a closet poet, screenwriter, or novelist. But in order to achieve success with these dreams, the rules of each particular format must be mastered.The Everything "RM" Creative Writing Book, written by Carolyn Whiteley (cofounder of the "Writing Doctor" online service), explains in simple terms how to express your ideas correctly. This easy-to-follow reference teaches readers the basics of good writing and how to develop a writing style. Including exercises, techniques, and dozens of samples of each form of writing, this exciting new book has all the ingredients necessary to help any dedicated craftsman become a great writer.Featuring: -- Advice on overcoming writer's block-- Lessons to help master rhetorical devices-- Instructions on how to make writing more commercial-- Effective revision techniques-- Computer programs that make life easier
|
| How to Write & Sell Your First Novel (Revised) Find this book in our catalog. Newly revised and updated, this guide reveals the keys to writing and publishing a successful novel in today's complicated market. Collier and Leighton combine their years of publishing experience with the success strategies of 22 accomplished authors. This guide uses case studies to reveal the keys to writing and publishing a successful novel.
|
| This Year You Write Your Novel Find this book in our catalog. No more excuses. "Let the lawn get shaggy and the paint peel from the walls," bestselling novelist Walter Mosley advises. Anyone can write a novel now, and in this essential book of tips, practical advice, and wisdom, Walter Mosley promises that the writer-in-waiting can finish it in one year. Mosley tells how to: - Create a daily writing regimen to fit any writer's needs--and how to stick to it. - Determine the narrative voice that's right for every writer's style. - Get past those first challenging sentences and into the heart of a story. Intended as both inspiration and instruction, THIS YEAR YOU WRITE YOUR NOVEL provides the tools to turn out a first draft painlessly and then revise it into something finer.
|
| The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel Find this book in our catalog. The write stuff for telling a good story...includes exclusive interviews with "New York Times" bestselling authors!
|