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Archive for the ‘Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference’ Category

News You Can Use!

Posted in Called to write, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Our Christian witness, Persecution of Christians, Praying for our nation, Publishing journey, Writing Fiction on June 17, 2013| Leave a Comment »

Yes, it’s been far too long since I blogged! I’ve been focused on mopping up the Colorado Christian Writers Conference (click here for a CD order form) and my garden and my house that are sorely neglected during conference season.

It’s time (okay, I admit past-time) to focus on the July 31 – August 3 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference (GPCWC). Some “News You Can Use” whether or not you’re able to come to the conference (although I hope you’ll prayerfully consider coming):

Looking for an agent? – This year’s GPCWC has five agents on faculty! Two are new agents with established firms: Sally Apokedak with the Leslie H. Stobbe Literary Agency and Ruth Samsel with William K. Jensen Literary. Now is a good time to check out the genres they are interested in representing before their stable of clients is filled. You’ll find info at http://philadelphia.writehisanswer.com/AgentsOthers.

Appointments – Of course, the very best way to land an agent is through meeting with them at a conference, and GPCWC offers more opportunities than most conferences for one-on-one appointments. And good news! Because we have such a large faculty this year, not just the first 75 conferees to register but the first 150 conferees will receive an additional appointment. Also, since I know it’s not possible for everyone to come to the entire conference, all who are among the first 150 to register will receive an additional appointment. That means:

One day conferees – Two appointments

Two day conferees – Three appointments

Three day conferees – In addition to the bonus appointment
for coming all three days (Thursday through Saturday),
will receive an additional appointment for a total of
FIVE 15-minute one-on-one appointments.

Keep in mind that the earlier you register, the better opportunity you have of getting your top picks. Bios and editorial needs for our 16 book editors and 13 periodical editors will be posted in the next few days. I’ll announce on the Facebook conference page when they are online.

CFOM June 2013

Encouragement and help for novelists – Check out the June issue of Bonnie Calhoun’s Christian Fiction Online Magazine. There is no charge to subscribe to this excellent resource that each month features 35+ columns by the best and brightest authors, publishers, and agents in Christian fiction. 

Bonnie’s “Publisher’s Choice” this month is yours truly with an article that highlights the opportunities for novelists at this year’s conference. From Dr. Ted Baehr’s “Breakthrough Scriptwriting” and Tim Shoemaker’s “Take Your Fiction to the Gym” continuing sessions, two clinics, and numerous workshops this year’s GPCWC offers more than ever for both beginning and advanced novelists.

Scholarships – GPCWC is offering two 50% off scholarships to readers of Christian Fiction Online Magazine. But scholarships are not limited to CFOM readers. If you need scholarship help, you’ll find the application at http://philadelphia.writehisanswer.com/Scholarships.

Teens Write – You’ve heard the question: How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time! This year’s Teens Write answers a similar question: How do you write a novel/article, devotion, screenplay? One Word at a Time! Pam Halter has done a fantastic job putting together an exciting program taught by nine authors and editors for teens ages 12-18. For more info on the Thursday, August 1, all-day Teens Write click here.  Please ask Father if there is a teen He wants you to encourage to come and to mentor.

Let Freedom Ring” in our Churches– Important thoughts from Mike Huckabee in a five-minute video. I’ve chosen never to seek tax exempt status because I don’t want to be muzzled from speaking or writing His answer. And although I pack both the Greater Philly and Colorado Christian Writers Conferences with an outstanding faculty and tons of learning and networking opportunities, I will continue to offer special sessions that are not about the craft of writing or of selling/marketing/promoting our work but that instead focus on the critical issues of our day. If you’re coming to the GPCWC, please prayerfully consider tithing your conference time by attending one of the following two-hour Thursday specials or order the CD.

Prepare for Persecution with C. Hope Flinchbaugh
A Culture in Peril with Rick Marschall
Compassion, Justice, Advocacy with Steven Lawson

Father, I feel such a sense of urgency to “write Your answer” NOW, while the doors to print and distribute Christian literature and take full advantage of the Internet are still open. Help us not to hide our light under a bushel but to effectively and faithfully write what You’re calling us to write whether fiction or nonfiction, stories or articles, poetry or screenplays. Use each one of us, Father, to make a difference in the lives of our readers.

You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world.
God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this,
as public as a city on a hill.
If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you
under a bucket, do you?
I’m putting you on a light stand.
Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine!

Matthew 5:14-15 MSG

 

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To Believe

Posted in Called to write, God's promises, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Overcoming self-doubts on April 19, 2013| Leave a Comment »

Do you put off doing things because you don’t believe you can do them? Do you have half-written manuscripts waiting to be finished? What about ideas that you’ve tucked away – somewhere? Has an editor or agent you met at a conference requested your manuscript, but you’ve never gotten around to finishing and submitting it? Are you putting off registering for the Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference because you’re uncertain that you have what it takes to get in print?

Yes, procrastination is a very real foe, but I am convinced the real reason we procrastinate is because we don’t believe we can do something. And actually, that’s true! We need God’s enabling to do the work He calls us to do. The key is knowing what He is calling us to do. The Living Bible paraphrase of Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do everything God asks me to do with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power.”

It comes down to faith – to believing in the One who calls us and choosing to say “yes, Lord, here am I.”

I want to encourage you to read aloud the “Writer’s Statement of Faith” below. You may need to read it aloud several times a day. I know I do! I also want to encourage you to watch this video of pre-teen Jackie Evancho singing “To Believe.” Yes, Father, help us to believe that we really can make a difference and bring peace – Your peace – to our troubled world.

A Writer’s Statement of Faith

I have strength for all things in Christ Who Empowers me-I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength in me, [that is, I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency]. Phil. 4:13 amp

Are you called to help others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies, so that God will be glorified. 1 Pet. 4:11 TLB

[Not in my own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in me – energizing and creating in me the power and desire – both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight. Phil. 2:13 AMP

My strength must come from the Lord’s mighty power at work within me. Eph. 6:10 TLB

In Him in every respect I am enriched, in full power and readiness of speech (to speak of my faith), and complete knowledge and illumination (to give me full insight into its meaning). 1 Cor. 1:5  AMP

Now I have every grace and blessing; every spiritual gift and power for doing His will are mine during this time of waiting for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 1:7 TLB

I actually do have within me a portion of the very thoughts and mind of Christ. 1 Cor. 2:16 TLB

I can be a mirror that brightly reflects the glory of the Lord. 2 Cor. 3:18 TLB

I will commit everything I do to the Lord. I will trust Him to help me do it and He will. Ps. 37:5 TLB

I will lean on, trust and be confident in the Lord with all my heart and mind, and choose not to rely on my own insight or understanding. Prov. 3:5 AMP

I will commit my work to the Lord, then it will succeed. Prov. 16:3 TLB

Sharing Christ is my work, and I can do it only because Christ’s mighty energy is at work within me. Col. 1:29 TLB

I will be strong and courageous and get to work. I will not be frightened by the size of the task, for the Lord my God is with me; He will not forsake me. He will see to it that everything is finished correctly. 1 Chron. 28:20 TLB

I need to keep on patiently doing God’s will if I want Him to do for me all He promised. Heb. 10:36 TLB

I m convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in me will continue until the day of Jesus Christ – right up to the time of His return – developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in me. Phil. 1:6 AMP

His mighty power at work within me is able to do far more than I would every dare to ask or even dream of – infinitely beyond my highest prayers, desires, thoughts or hopes. Eph. 3:20 TLB

From Write His Answer – A Bible Study for Christian Writers. For more excerpts, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.

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Making the Impossible – Possible!

Posted in Called to write, Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Overcoming self-doubts, Publishing journey on April 8, 2013| 5 Comments »

I knew God had called me to write a book. What I didn’t know was if I could do it. As my friend, Gayle Roper, once said, “There’s a big difference between a book and a magazine article – like 250 pages difference.”

To be honest, there were days the last thing I wanted to do was work on the book. The evil one’s lies grew louder and more insistent. “What makes you think anyone would want to read what you’ve written?” My self-doubts intensified. I wanted to run from what I still knew God was calling me to do.

“He who believes need never run away again,” I read in Isaiah 28:16 (TLB).

Exactly 365 days after I had committed to finish the book in a year, I completed the manuscript. And then the waiting began. Some of you know that the manuscript was rejected by 42 publishers over a five year period. Finally, the 43rd editor to see the manuscript accepted it for publication.

Looking back I’m amazed that I didn’t give up. I certainly wanted to give up. But God wouldn’t let me, and I’m so glad I didn’t. Had I given up, eight other books would never have been published. I wouldn’t have known the joy of serving on the faculty of over 70 Christian writers’ conferences and giving my one and two day writing seminars over 50 times around the nation. The Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference would not have been birthed 30 years ago, and the awesome privilege of directing the Colorado Christian Writers Conference for 17 years would never have happened.

What about you? Is God calling you to write an article or story, a book or even a screenplay? Does it seem impossible? Do you feel you lack the writing skills to make it happen? Are you stuck and the words aren’t flowing? Do you have a completed manuscript that you’ve not been able to sell? Are you discouraged and ready to run from God’s call?

I know the Colorado or Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference can be a turning point for you and your writing ministry. It’s not too late to register for the May 15-18 Colorado conference and to schedule one-on-one appointments with FOUR editors, agents, or authors if you attend Thursday through Saturday. Secure online registration for the July 31 – August 3 Greater Philly conference will open April 15.

Trust Father to make a way –

  • Logistically – Friends babysat my three children so I could attend the St. Davids Christian Writers Conference for a number of years.
  • Financially – We often “have not because we ask not.” I want to encourage you to approach your church family and your friends if you need help. They may welcome the opportunity to invest in your writing ministry. My pastor paid for my first writers conference and provided the accountability I needed afterwards to not waste what he invested in me. The conferences do not have any full scholarships to offer this year, but partial scholarships up to 50% of the cost of registration are possible. The scholarship application is not yet posted for the Philly conference. For Colorado’s application click here. Time payments can be arranged if necessary.

Lord, I believe. Please help my unbelief. Help me to have faith in You knowing that You can make all things possible.

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The Inspiration and the Perspiration – Interview with Dina Sleiman

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Publishing journey, Writer's Life, Writing Fiction, Writing Nonfiction Books on April 5, 2013| Leave a Comment »

Dina SleimanDonna Brennan
Interviews
CCWC & GPCW
Faculty Member
Dina Sleiman

Author Dina Sleiman writes with the same flowing grace one could find in a song or a dance. If you’ve read her books, you wouldn’t be surprised to learn that she’s also a poet, a songwriter, and a worship dance choreographer, director, and dancer. Her novels, poetry, songs, and dancing all can be considered forms of worship.

Dina will be teaching a continuing session at the May 15 – 18 Colorado Christian Writers Conference on “The Inspiration and the Perspiration.” This course is designed to help Christian writers seek God for writing inspiration and also learn the skills needed to craft that inspiration into a fully publishable book. I got in touch with Dina to ask her a few questions about the session.

Q: How would you define Christian writing? Is being a “Christian writer” different from being a “Christian who writes”?

I have my own definition for Christian writing: “Any writing inspired by the Holy Spirit that advances the kingdom of God on earth.” I will explain why that is my definition, and we will discuss other definitions and examples of classic Christian writing as well. This is always an interesting topic, and I love to hear feedback from my students. I do think being a Christian writer can be different than being a Christian who writes, although that is a fairly subjective distinction.

Q: As a Christian I feel I should already know how to hear from God, but I admit sometimes I only hear silence. Will you be showing us methods for communicating with God so we can hear his voice? Will these methods help us only with our writing or with other issues in our lives as well?

I think every Christian wants to believe they can hear God’s voice, but the majority of us suffer a good bit of confusion in this area. This was a huge struggle for me throughout much of my life. A wonderful Christian brother told me recently that he tossed a coin to try to discern God’s voice. That’s just sad. We have the Holy Spirit dwelling in us and should not have to resort to those sorts of Old Testament methods. Although I do not buy into overly simplified formulas, I have learned a number of techniques during my own quest that really help me to hone in on and hear God’s voice, and yes, I will be sharing all of these. In class we will be focusing on how to use these techniques for writing, but they will absolutely bless you in every area of your life. I remember one student receiving a powerful word from God during our in class prayer time that had nothing to do with writing at all, and it truly changed her.

Q: How can we tell if our inspiration comes from God or from or own imagination?

Again, I have a number of tips to share in this area, including checks and balances. But the most basic answer is that the Spirit of God is often referred to as a flowing river, so you want to tap into that sense of flow that comes from the kingdom of God deep within you.

Q: So once we get that inspiration—that lump of clay—now what?

Now the real work starts. LOL. Even the biblical writers spent extensive time crafting their writing into the best of ancient poetry. We’ll look at examples of how this worked with a number of poets and prophets.

Q: If our inspiration comes from God, that’s all we need, right? Why would we need to learn the writing craft—wouldn’t God just give us all the words, too?

I won’t deny that it is possible for God to give us precise words that are correct the first time, or to teach us to write through practice and adherence to his voice, but this is the rare exception rather than the rule, even among biblical writers. Habakkuk is the only real example of this. Of course, the deeper we can tap into the flow of the Holy Spirit, the better our writing will be the first time. But that is no excuse to be lazy or stubborn about revising and editing.

Q: Will the class be more about inspiration and hearing from God, or more about the perspiration and crafting we need to do to shape that lump of clay idea into a publishable book?

We will spend the first few hours learning about inspiration and transitioning to perspiration. The remainder of the class will be about the hard work needed to create that publishable book and all the steps of editing involved. I’ve actually considered calling the class “The Inspiration, The Perspiration, and The Commercialization” but I didn’t know how that would strike people. We will spend the last hour or so discussing the business side of writing, though, because it’s very important if you want anyone to read the message you’ve put so much work into.

Q: What are some of the crafting topics you’ll cover?

We will look at all the steps of editing that publishing houses use and learn to apply these to our own work. I will try to tailor the class to the genres of writing represented in the group. But in general we will look at a plan to start with major content editing and work through the process until every letter and punctuation mark is in place. Generally I end up teaching about plot, scene structure, and characterization for fiction and essay structure for nonfiction. Sometimes I get to teach a little about poetry and lyric essay as well, depending on my audience. Fortunately, my background covers all of these areas. I think my class is a great one for new writers who want to see the full process involved in writing a book, and also for writers who are having difficulties, but can’t seem to pinpoint why.

Q: Would strategic planning include outlines and plot summaries? What about for folks who call themselves pantsters?

By strategic planning, I primarily mean that you should pin down your genre, audience, and premise before you get too far into your writing. And I will explain why these are important. Beyond that, I believe that the writing process works differently for different writers. In basic nonfiction, it would be difficult to write without a plan. In fiction and narrative nonfiction, some writers plan the whole plot in advance. Some must experience the entire story along with their characters without much forethought. Many writers fall somewhere in between, using free writing to get them started before planning. But in order to have a strong story, at some point you must examine the structure. Every story must have the same basic “bones” as Angela Hunt puts it. And we will discuss those bones. For pantsters, this might mean extra editing once the first draft is finished.

Q: As acquisitions editor for WhiteFire Publishing, you’ll be taking appointments at both the May 15-18 Colorado and July 31-Augut 3 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference. Is there any advice you care to share with folks planning to pitch to you?

I just want to get to know you as a person. What you write of course, but also your personality, passions, hopes, and dreams. I love a relaxed session with a lot of give and take. Don’t worry about preparing a long speech. A thirty second pitch is more than enough. And please, please, listen when I ask you questions—and answer them! Don’t just return to your script. You don’t have to sell me on anything. I just want to see if we’re a match. I rarely read sample writing during an appointment. I prefer to do that later via email. But I do appreciate if the author gives me a one sheet with their picture to help me remember them and our conversation.
_______  

Thanks Dina and Donna. Great questions and responses. “The Inspiration and the Perspiration” is going to be an exciting continuing session.

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Making Your Words an Event – Part 2 Interview with Suzanne & Shawn Kuhn

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Marketing, Platform building, Promotion on March 28, 2013| 1 Comment »

SuzyQDonna Brennan Interviews
Suzanne & Shawn Kuhn

Part 2

 

Suzanne Kuhn is owner of SuzyQ, a full-service author promotion and retail development firm. Together with her husband, Shawn, Suzanne works with authors, publishers, and retailers, helping to coordinate events, train staff and authors in reader engagement, and develop promotions for increased sales and reader/customer loyalty.

Both Suzanne and Shawn will be available at the Colorado Christian Writers Conference May 15-18 and at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference July 31 – August 3.  Suzanne will be teaching three sessions on various ways to promote your books and yourself, including running successful in-person events as well as connecting through social media outlets. Both Suzanne and Shawn will be available for appointments.

Your workshop, “Putting the Social Back in Social Media,” focuses on making a true connection with the person on the other end. Hopefully we all know not to come on too strong trying to promote our books or risk being unfriended or unfollowed. Will you show us ways to promote ourselves and our books without being overbearing?

Yes, we will talk about using social media for engaging influencers, readers and potential readers. We’ll also discuss ways to make social media manageable and a great tool for expanding your audience.

As authors are engaging what are some unexpected benefits we might find if we handle this social media thing well?

Your followers will be talking about your books.  And we all know word of mouth advertising is some of the very best advertising there is.  We have had clients who have received radio interviews, speaking engagements, and one even signed a traditional publishing contract all because of well planned and executed social media.

What do you mean by value-added content?

Value-added content is simply offering information beyond just your limited author and or book interests.  I will give specific ideas and even offer a Q&A opportunity to those who attend this workshop to brainstorm specifically what their value-added content could be. This is also a great topic to brainstorm in an appointment with Suzanne or Shawn.

Is it worth an author’s time to do in-person promotions when you can reach so many people at once via social media?

Would you prefer to be texted goodnight or kissed goodnight? Meaningful interaction takes place with live events. Readers leave the event feeling as if they’ve gotten to know you. Upon returning home, these now reader friends will then engage with social media. Social Media is the add-on or follow up to a strong live event.

In your “Engaging Events” workshop, will you focus primarily on book signings?

We will touch on many types of events.

What other types of events will you cover?

We will address book clubs, reader days, and book launches, just to name a few. Any topics not specifically discussed could be answered in the Q&A or through appointments.

Will you introduce us to some unique ideas for Author Events?

Our ideas may or may not be new, but the execution we suggest certainly will be unique.

Can a face-to-face meeting really influence the staff of a bookstore to promote our books after the event is over?

Absolutely! Live interaction can make or break an author’s sales in a bookstore. In the Events workshop, we will share a real experience that happened in a bookstore and how it directly affected that author’s sales.

Suzanne, you have over 20 years of experience in book retailing and event planning, and Shawn you were part-owner and VP of a regional bargain book chain for over 25 years. So I’m expecting your Retailers Request workshop to provide lots of ways to develop a good relationship with bookstores, which can result in increased sales. Can you give us a few tips now?

Books are still being discovered in bookstores.  It is so important for an author to nurture those relationships in a way that best suits the bookstore.  My best tip is you don’t want to miss this workshop. You will gain valuable insider information.

Will either of you be available for individual appointments at the conference? What types of help can authors expect to get out of these appointments?

We will both be available for appointments, meals, and after hour chats. We can talk about any aspect of an author’s book promotion plans, branding, social media, events and connecting with bookstores, or anything else promotion related. We love these appointments. We get to spend 15 minutes with an author, catching their vision then helping them to come up with ideas that are authentic to them as an individual.

___________________

Thanks much, Donna, Suzanne, and Shawn. I’m looking forward to seeing all of you in Colorado and Philly.

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Promotion, Author Events, Social Media

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Marketing, Platform building, Promotion on March 26, 2013| Leave a Comment »

Suzanne Kuhn Jan 2013Shawn KuhnDonna Brennan Interviews

CCWC & GPCWC
Faculty Members
Suzanne & Shawn Kuhn

Part 1

To be successful authors in today’s publishing world, we need to learn ways to promote our books. Understanding more about how bookstores operate could also be mighty helpful. But where can we go to find this information in a usable and helpful format?

One good source for this knowledge is Suzanne Kuhn, owner of SuzyQ, a full-service author promotion and retail development firm. Together with her husband, Shawn, Suzanne works with authors, publishers, and retailers, helping to coordinate events, train staff and authors in reader engagement, and develop promotions for increased sales and reader/customer loyalty.

Both Suzanne and Shawn will be available at the Colorado Christian Writers Conference May 15-18 and at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference July 31 – August 3.  Suzanne will be teaching three sessions on various ways to promote your books and yourself, including running successful in-person events as well as connecting through social media outlets.

I got in touch with Suzanne and Shawn to ask a few questions about SuzyQ and the sessions they’ll be teaching.

It’s obvious why self-published authors may need help in promoting their books. But do authors going through the traditional publishing process also need to do this? Isn’t promoting our books the job of the publishing house?

In today’s industry, every author must promote their own book. For a traditionally published author, it is more like a partnership with their publisher, each is doing their part to actively promote the book.

Your workshops and your company, SuzyQ, focus on promotion. Is that the same thing as publicity?

Promotion is definitely different from publicity or public relations for that matter. We focus on connecting our authors with their specific target audience. The best way to describe author promotion is to say if there is a two-lane road, one lane publicity and the other PR, we (SuzyQ) have created our own lane and are driving up the double yellow line. We may do some things that cross over into what you would think of when you think of traditional publicity or PR, but for us the focus is much more on virtual or live engagement, whether it be with readers or influencers. [Join Suzanne in her workshop to get her definition of who your influencers are. You may be surprised at who she defines as your influencers.]

Do you show up and participate at events for your clients?

 Yes, we do. Actually, when Suzanne first founded SuzyQ that was the vision for the company, to assist authors with live events. However, as SuzyQ has expanded, so have our services. At this point, Suzanne’s focus is still on live events with authors and retailers, while Shawn focuses on social media and other support.

What’s the benefit of having SuzyQ at a live event?

We coach our authors for live events, so authors are well prepared to make the most of any situation. However, when one of our team is on location, we add value to those interactions. WE are the ones promoting the author, making conversation and guiding the experience. We are the authors’ gatekeepers, we control line flow, take pictures, deal with any “difficult” fans, help to channel excited fans, and we create our own buzz.

Will either of you be available for individual appointments at the conference? What types of help can authors expect to get out of these appointments?   

We will both be available for appointments, meals, and after hour chats. We can talk about any aspect of an author’s book promotion plans, branding, social media, events and connecting with bookstores, or anything else promotion related. We love these appointments. We get to spend 15 minutes with an author, catching their vision then helping them to come up with ideas that are authentic to them as an individual.

_________________

Thanks Donna, Suzanne, and Shawn. Be watching for part 2 of the interview that focuses on social media and engaging events. And take advantage of Suzanne and Shawn’s expertise by requesting an appointment with them at the conference.

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Get Your Novel in Shape

Posted in Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Writing Fiction on March 23, 2013| Leave a Comment »

Image
Donna Brennan interviews
GPCWC faculty member
Tim Shoemaker

Is your writing strong enough the catch the attention of your intended reader? How can you avoid those weak beginnings, sagging middles, and limping endings? What are some ways to build up the plot, invigorate your characters, and create powerful scenes?

The answers to these and other questions can be found at the July 31 – August 3 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference when Tim Shoemaker teaches the continuing session, Take Your Fiction to the Gym. During the course of this six-hour session, Tim will provide you with tips and techniques to strengthen your writing so it can compete in the real world of publishing.

I asked Tim some questions about this continuing session, and about his 2012 Zonderkidz novel, Code of Silence. (NOTE: The second book in the series, Back Before Dark, was released this month.) 

Question: You’re known for packing a lot of info and fun into your classes. You also have a reputation for using a lot of props to make your point. You’re not going to bring real gym equipment and make us do exercises are you?

Nope. But I’ll show you how to take your manuscript to the gym. And you won’t even have to get out of your chair to do it.

Question: How would you define “strong writing?”

Strong writing grips the reader and won’t let them go. Strong writing pulls the reader into the story and keeps them up at night thinking about it. Strong writing makes the reader laugh. Cry. Think. Strong writing raises an editor’s eyebrows-in a good way.

Question: Very often beginner and middle-level writers hear the adage “Show, don’t tell.” Are you going to tell us how to do this?

No. I’m not going to TELL you how to do it. I’m going to SHOW you how. We’ll spend plenty of time on this topic so that those attending get it . . . and their writing will improve immediately.

Question: If we’re not writing a suspense or thriller novel, do we still need conflict in our story?

Quick answer? Yes.

Conflict keeps the reader interested. It adds tension. It creates questions as to how things are going to work out for the characters in your story. There are four basic types of conflict-and good fiction probably has some form of conflict on every page.

Question: When we create dialogue, shouldn’t we just write it like we hear people speak it? Doesn’t that make it more realistic?

We want to create the illusion that our dialogue is just like the way we hear people speak-but good fiction dialogue is different. Real conversations are loaded with all sorts of boring elements. Good fiction dialogue cuts out all the boring parts. And that makes it stronger. Way stronger.

We’ll take a good look at how to write stronger dialogue-and to keep it sounding realistic at the same time.

Question: Should our fiction contain a life-message or lesson? Is that more important in Christian fiction than in general fiction?

Yes. Our fiction should contain a life-message or lesson-whether it is Christian or general fiction. It can be subtle-but it must be there. It is often a question that the story seems to ask. In my book, Code of Silence, the question has to do with honesty. Is there ever a time to lie? What should I do if it is easier, or better for me if I didn’t tell the truth?

Sometimes we don’t fully realize what that message is until we’re far into writing the book. Often our protagonist, our main character, has a very obvious goal. But there is a deeper need that eventually surfaces. Often our life-message is found there.

The message in Christian fiction certainly has all the potential to be incredibly important and life-changing. And that’s exactly what it should do. That may or may not be the case with general fiction.

Question: Code of Silence seems to have a guy-focus, but it works for girls. It also works for adults. Is it harder to write for boys than for girls? Why do you think Code of Silence has such a broad appeal?

I’m not sure if writing for boys is harder than writing for girls, but it is definitely different. There are certain things you need to avoid if you’re going to write for boys-and other things you’ll want to include.

Not all that many seem to write for boys-partly because they don’t think there’s a big enough market. But here’s the secret. Good writing for boys will also be enjoyed by girls-but it generally doesn’t work the other way around. So if you can write just for girls  –  that’s probably all you’ll get. If you write for boys-and do it well, you’ll get the girls, and often adults, too.

Question: In Code of Silence you really capture the action and feelings of teens. Will you be showing us how to do that in our own characters?

I definitely hope so. I’ll certainly get you pointed in the right direction. A big part of it has to do with Point-of-View and Show-don’t-tell  –  two areas we’ll hit in real detail. And there are other subtle things we’ll touch on that will help.

_____________________________

Thanks much, Donna and Tim. I’d love to take this continuing session but alas as the conference director I simply don’t have time. You can be sure, however, that I’ll listen to the CDs. To learn more about Tim go to his website: http://www.timshoemakersmashedtomatoes.com/

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Breaking News

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Our Christian witness, Persecution of Christians on March 2, 2013| 1 Comment »

I received an exciting email from Ted Baehr who is keynoting and teaching a continuing session on “Breakthrough Scriptwriting” at the July 31 – August 3 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.

“Be a part of making Christ’s Voice heard in Hollywood,” Ted writes.”You can change the culture by changing the channel to Hallmark Movie Channel March 6th at 7 pm EST [for the 21st Annual MovieGuide Awards]. . . . We need to show Hollywood that the Christian voice matters, so that they make more faith and family friendly programing.”

Please help not just by tuning in but by spreading the word in church tomorrow and on Facebook, Twitter . . .

Speaking of television, in case you haven’t heard, tomorrow night (Sunday, March 3), THE BIBLE, an epic 5-week, 10-hour mini-series, will premiere on the History Channel (8 pm EST). The final episode will air on Easter Sunday and will feature the death and resurrection of Jesus. To help insure accuracy, many Christian scholars served as advisors and hundreds of Christian leaders have given their endorsement. Again, it’s critically important that we spread the word, tune to the History Channel, send a thank you to the channel (and sponsors), and most of all PRAY.

More news – my good friend Dan Wooding who keynoted at the 2011 GPCWC and the 2012 Colorado Christian Writers Conference emailed that he is “very close to receiving a matching grant from a Christian foundation that said they would give ASSIST a grant of $5,000 to be used to help us continue with our media ministry, if we can raise enough funds to match this figure. This means that a gift of any amount, large or small, that is given will be doubled in value, which would be a wonderful help for us with our funds still extremely low at this time. . . . This is a wonderful way to assist ASSIST, which, by the way, stands for Aid to Special Saints in Strategic Times.”

I believe ASSIST News provides a critically important ministry by keeping subscribers informed (there is no charge) of the needs of our brothers and sisters around the world who are refusing to deny their faith in Christ despite persecution. To use ASSIST’s secure site to designate your gift for “Where Needed Most”, please go to http://www.assistnews.net/assist/donations.htm. Or you can mail a check with “Matching Grant” in the memo field to ASSIST, PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609, USA. Gifts are tax-deductible. Please pray about helping.

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Trusting Him!

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, God's promises, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Overcoming self-doubts on February 28, 2013| 1 Comment »

Yesterday was one of those days when the process of planning two conferences seemed more than overwhelming and I found myself (yes, I was lost!) telling the Lord, “I can’t.” (I never tell Him “I won’t.”) Of course, as always, Father just wanted me to “keep on asking.” He had led me to Matthew 7:7 that morning, and I had just reposted that verse on the Colorado and Philly conference Facebook pages. You know – one of those cut and pastes where you really don’t read the copy.

Then, at the same time, Raena Rood posted an excerpt from my book, Write His Answer – A Bible Study for Christian Writers.

If a crisis of confidence is holding you back
from the work you know you have been called to do,
it’s time to acknowledge that it’s not self-confidence you need
but God-confidence.
It’s time to learn what it means
“to be a living demonstration of Christ’s power,
instead of showing off [your] own power and abilities” (2 Cor. 12:9 TLB).

Don’t you love it when Father gets your attention and speaks to you through His Word, the words of others, or even your own words! He knows. He cares. He is with me, and He is with you. And so this morning I’m choosing to re“Commit everything . . . to the Lord. [I will] trust him to help [me] do it, and he will” (Psalm 37:5 TLB). The CEV reads,” Let the LORD lead you [I will let the Lord lead me] and trust him to help.” Amen!

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Overcoming Procrastination

Posted in Called to write, Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Overcoming distractions, Overcoming self-doubts, Publishing journey, Uncategorized on January 9, 2013| 6 Comments »

Procrastination is a sin;
it brings me endless sorrow.
I know I should stop doing it.
I think I’ll start tomorrow!

No doubt you’ve seen this poem or something similar. I checked the Internet to attribute it and found 4,390 entries! Obviously procrastination is a hot topic that, like the old game of hot potato, we quickly toss (pass the blame) to someone or something else. Really, isn’t it easier to blame someone else for causing us to procrastinate or to move to another task to avoid doing the thing(s) we know we need to do?

While no one is immune from procrastination, I think writers are especially prone. I’m not pointing an accusing finger at you – I’m pointing it at myself. Despite the chapter on “Overcoming Procrastination” that I wrote for my book, Write His Answer – A Bible Study for Christian Writers, I struggle with procrastination as much or perhaps more than others. How else could I have written that chapter? I’m an expert! If you’re curious about what I’m learning (but sadly not always applying), click here to read the chapter online.

I especially struggle with procrastination when it comes to planning the Colorado and Greater Philly Christian Writers Conferences. I know Father has entrusted these conferences to me. Watching Him work and do Ephesians 3:20 things each year (it’s now 31 years for Philly and 17 for Colorado) is one of my greatest joys. It’s just the getting started that’s hard. Well, okay, the entire process is hard! I know I’ll face computer challenges and overwhelming to-do lists and time pressures that will stretch me far beyond my abilities, my limited IQ (it’s amazing how stupid my computer can make me feel), my wisdom, my strength . . .

And that’s the problem! I procrastinate when I focus on me – on my self-doubts and feelings of inadequacy rather than trusting the Lord to enable me to do what I can never do on my own. Although the world says dependency on anyone or anything but ourselves is weakness, like the apostle Paul I’d rather embrace my weaknesses knowing that “when I am weak, then I am strong – the less I have, the more I depend on him” (2 Cor. 12:10 TLB). God-confidence is far better than self-confidence!

Will you ask the Lord what He wants you to do – to write – this year? And will you then commit to do it in His strength and for His glory?

P.S. The website for the May 14-17 Colorado Christian Writers Conference  is now updated with the 2014 faculty and continuing sessions. Lots more info coming soon. The website for the July 30-August 2 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference still has 2013 info but I can tell you that Cec Muphey will be on faculty. I hope you’ll visit again, pass the URL on to friends, and save the date! There’s still lots of work to do but as Aristotle said, “Well begun is half done.” I’m excited and hope you will be too.

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