Recipe for Robust Revision

Sign up for classes: Writing Memoir, Screenwriting, Conquering Writer’s Block, and Creative Writers Workshop.   As a person new to grilling, I recalled a truth that once meat is cooked, it remains more flavorful if it rests before cutting and serving. This allows the juices which escaped to the middle while over the flames to reestablish…

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Ten Book Edits: When It Rains…

On a Sunday in early May, Atlanta had a third rain shower in a week, one predicted to last all afternoon.  I recall hearing a powerful, small-voiced thought: ‘what a good day to edit a book!’  As the rain pattered the ground sounding like hands dancing on a rattling keyboard, I enjoyed both my editing…

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Drafting: Like It Rough

Virginia was embarrassed about her early draft, apologizing in a way like my mother would after cleaning thoroughly for company’s arrival – once guests were welcomed and had complimented her lovely home, she would say “Oh, it’s such a mess.”  This being Virginia’s first time back to writing after a long absence, she sought forgiveness…

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Hiring and Working With an Editor

Just out of college, he had never written a book before, much less hired an editor.  He asked for help from a few friends and his mom, but they didn’t want to hurt his feelings or find flaws with his work.  He needed a professional who didn’t know him to do a thorough cleanup and…

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