WRITERS' RUMPUS

HOW TO MIDDLE GRADE

Hi! My name’s James Ponti, and I write Middle Grade book series such as City Spies and The Sherlock Society. I’m excited to share some pointers with you, but only with a major caveat. I know a bunch of writers and we all do it differently. I’m not talking plotting vs. pantsing, but radically different approaches.

SKIPSHOCK by Caroline O’Donoghue: A Master Class in World Building

For writers of fantasy, science fiction, and romance, this genre-blending novel is a master class in how to create details and imagery that pull readers into the plot and keep them riveted from first page to last, and importantly, leave them eager for more.

Gifting – Evidence of a Book’s Lure

January 20, 2023 Joyce Audy Zarins

The goal of publishing a book is to sell it, but what characteristics of a book inspire that purchase? Of the two ways that most

ATLAS of DOGS: Explore the PAW-SOME World of Pooches

January 17, 2023 Laura Fineberg Cooper

The ATLAS OF DOGS introduces 150 paw-some pooches in the geographic region from which they hail with engaging, kid-friendly language and vibrant, personality-packed illustrations. Though the reading level is tagged at grades 1-3, this is an atlas an entire family of dog lovers can enjoy!

Interview with Picture Book Author Carol Gordon Ekster…and a Critique or Author Chat Giveaway!

January 13, 2023 Hilary Elizabeth Margitich

I am so lucky to be able to be able to sit down today with one of my favorite writing mentors and critique group buddies, Carol Gordon Ekster.

Dedications: How Do You Decide?

January 10, 2023 Kim Chaffee

Congratulations! You wrote the manuscript, sold the manuscript, and revised the manuscript. You’ve seen the art and finalized the title. Now, it’s time to decide to whom you will dedicate your book.

Write What You LOVE

January 6, 2023 Laura Fineberg Cooper

Before writing about what you love, it helps to identify your ten greatest passions first. Think of this as creating your personal inspirational guide. You’re welcome to peruse my list before or after you write yours.

It Only Took a Mere Two Decades to Become an Overnight Success

December 23, 2022 Alumni & Guests

Here we are on the Eve of Christmas Eve and the 6th night of Hanukkah. Our menorah candles are burning bright. The Christmas lights twinkle. Cookies are cooling. And latkes sizzle in the pan. I love it when both holidays overlap as they do in my book, Latkes for Santa Claus.