Writing Critiques

I love helping new writers! But after years of teaching at writer's conferences and doing critiques, I've found that most writers make the same mistake I did: They send out their work way too early, long before it's ready for submission. As a traditionally-published author of four books (including both fiction and non-fiction), gobs of magazine articles, scripts, and children's books, I can spot those problems and help you increase your chances of publication.

Here's how it works:

I have three levels of writing critiques, depending on your readiness. Some writers want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth when it comes to a critique. Others are only beginning the process and could be easily discouraged or overwhelmed with too much instruction and correction. So, I let you tell me what you want!

• A Light Touch--This is a gentle first step into the world of critique. I'll point out general areas that need work, such as overall structure, plot, formatting, set-up, characterization, organization, focus and transition. I will suggest alternatives to consider and recommend resources related to your area of need. $30
  

• A Deep Muscle Massage--In this critique, we'll take a closer look at those areas that need work. It will include all the elements above, but at a deeper level, most likely offering specific correction and insight on many, if not all of the pages. $50
  

• A Thick-Skinned Critique--If you're ready for a "no-holds-barred" look at your work, this is the one for you. Just be prepared--depending on your level of knowledge and experience, this could mean suggestions for every paragraph. $75
  

Critique Submission Guidelines

For all critiques, please follow these directions:

1. Please send as a Word document, up to 30 pages, double spaced, 12 point Times New Roman, with standard margins on all sides.
   
2. If your project is a novel, please include a 1-2 page synopsis and genre.
3. If it's a non-fiction book, please include target audience and a chapter outline with a 1-3 sentence summary for each chapter.
   
4. For scripts, include title, roles, props, length of presentation, and any special staging needs.
5. For magazine articles, please include your target audience.
6. For children's material, please include your target age group.
7. Please DO NOT include any artwork or special formatting.
8. You may remit by credit card or check. You will receive a receipt. Contact me for details.
   
9. When we talk, I'll give further instructions on emailing the manuscript as an attachment, with WEBSITE CRITIQUE in the subject line.
10. Please report method of payment in the body of the email.
    

Thank you for the joy of working with you! I look forward to helping you hone your skills as you continue down this road to publication!

Writing Instruction

I not only love books, but I love teaching how to write books! Whether I’m teaching my Writing is Fun! Children’s Writing Workshops in schools, or teaching adults at a large writer’s conference, I get excited helping others reach their writing potential.

Writing is Fun! Children’s Writing Workshops

I love to talk with kids about reading and writing! Through the years, I’ve spoken to over 15,000 kids in public and private schools, homeschools, libraries, and bookstores…and I’d love to talk with your kids!

In this high energy, interactive program, children learn the basics of writing a story, how to develop memorable characters, how and where to get great ideas, and how to pack the story with exciting events.

Please contact me to discuss the possibility of having a Writing is Fun! workshop in your school, library, or bookstore.

Writing Instruction for Adults

Whether you need an instructor for magazine articles, children’s books, or adult fiction or non-fiction, I have the class for you! From Florida to Delaware and South Carolina to New Mexico, my classes are always a hit. Here is a partial list of my classes:

• How to Develop a Speaking Ministry to Women (multi-session)
• Kiss the Query Letter Goodbye: How to Have Magazine Editors Calling You!
• Five Fatal Flaws of Fiction
• Scams, Shams, and Flim-Flams (Warnings regarding scams against writers)
• Laughter is Serious Business
• Write a Novel Children Will Love
• Opportunities for the Christian Writer
• Teaching Biblical Truth through Secular Fiction
• Writing for Children: On Size Does Not Fit All
• Scriptwriting: Biblical Truth from the Stage

Please contact me to talk about teaching at your writer’s conference.