Opportunities

I live over 2 hrs away from my local scbwi. So I helped start a writer's group through my local arts council. In an effort to help all group members find their path to reaching their writing goals, I have started scouring the internet for opportunities for them. In the process I have discovered a few golden nuggets of my own. If you are a writer in search of ways to improve your craft. If you desire to get an agent or become published. Continue to read this blog. I will endeavor to post the same information/opportunities here that I share with the writer's group. If you have any information, please email me so we can post for others. By working together and sharing information, maybe we can each find our yellow brick road to help us reach our Land of Oz.

Conferences

When you look for conferences to attend, make sure the speakers are people you want to hear. I wish I would have realized this for my first conference. I thought everyone had something I wanted to hear. It took that "newbie" approach to realize I did not want to pay for someone to whine over how bad the industry is to them. Do remember they may be going through a dry spell.

If you are looking for the absolute best conference ever, check out Highlights Foundation Writers Workshops. They have small group settings in Pennsylvania and a fabulous summer one in Chautauqua, NY. Well worth the time and money.

New Contest

Check out the new contest on Buried in the Slush Pile Blog. Here is your chance to win a critique from and editor for picture book or middle grade/ya. Good Luck!!!!

Opportunities

Life is full of oppotunities. Some we can see and others pass us by. Our focus can be so blinded by the shiny ring dangling in front of us, that we step over the golden bar that has been laid at our feet. Maybe we should take the time to see all the opportunities around us and not be so narrow on our focus.

Rewrite

I am thrilled to find myself among the few manuscripts still being considered. However, I am finding that the fun little manuscript I had written is not fun anymore when I am struggling with words for a rewrite. But I am still thrilled, only now with a headache. ;}

Critique

Wow! I received my critique back from Madeline Smoot at CBAY books. Very intense. She is going to be running contests on a regular basis. Something every children's writer should check out.

Amen Sister!

I won a contest and was allowed to submit three chapters to the editor. In her post today she mentioned editing to much. Is she preaching to the chior?! Oh-No, what does this mean for my ms?