Sunday, April 27, 2014

Writers Process Blog Tour


Thanks to Rosie Bird-Hawkins for tagging me into the chain for the writer's process blog tour. It's been fascinating reading writers' processes and seeing how people manage to articulate why they write and how they write.


For anyone who hasn't heard of it, the Writers Process Blog Tour is 'simply a weekly insight into and sharing of people's writing process.' So here goes...

 

What am I working on?

I'm currently studying for a MA in Creative Writing for Children at Winchester University and deadlines are looming... So my main focus at the moment is writing a picture book and an early reader. I must admit I've enjoyed this topic thoroughly. Our lecturers Sarah Grant and Andrew Weale have inspired me to look at this genre differently. I certainly understand that it's not the word count but a case of EVERY word counts at this age range. 


Although I'm looking forward to getting back to writing young adult and middle grade.

 

How does my work differ from others of its genre?

 For my early reader book, aimed at five to seven year olds I have tried to stay away from 'nice.' I like humour. One of my pet hates are stories that are sermons dressed as entertainment. What is the matter with just a really good story that's enjoyable to read? Mine may be a bit silly in parts. 



Why do I write what I do?

 I honestly don't know? 


I've never had the urge to write an adult novel. I think I prefer fantasy and excitement compared to adult issues I'm currently experiencing. One of my favourite young adult writers is Garth Nix, I adored his Abhorsen series 

And I'm so excited at the prospect of building my own fantasy world.

How does my writing process work?


I write everyday. A couple of years ago I started this blog 'aiming for a publishing deal,' every time I post it reminds me what my goal is. I always call my first draft a 'zero' draft, it's a useful mind game - you expect to make changes to a zero draft. While you are hopeful that a first draft will turn out alright! I just keep plugging away. I would say that my advantage is that I'm able to take rejections and criticism. Accepting praise is harder. If you want to write you have to develop a pretty thick skin.


For the next link in the chain I pass you on, appropriately enough, to an another MA writer Tamsin Goadby.

http://tamsingoadby.com

Twitter: @TamsinGoadby


And the wonderful adult writer Lane Swift.

http://laneswift.com

Twitter: @LaneSwift


6 comments:

  1. Thank you for my baton! You're an inspiration in so many ways. Today's post is yet another example.

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  2. "...sermons dressed as entertainment..." That's awesome. I totally agree with you. It was nice learning about your writing process. Thanks so much for stopping by the Alleyway!

    Sheri at Writer's Alley

    Home of Rebel Writer CREED 2014
    Mighty Minion Bureau Team #atozchallenge

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  3. Writing every day is something I keep telling myself I'm going to do and then I always end up getting sidetracked. But I really want to get into that routine. With the A-Z winding up there's no time like the present to do it. It was interesting to learn about your process and I'm so glad you stopped by my blog - great to meet you!

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  4. I'm totally with you. There is no way I would ever write for adults...directly. Okay, maybe there is (like if there was TONZ and TONZ of money involved,) but I prefer writing for young minds too. Creativity is what I live for, and kids get that. Too many adults are fine being chained to reality. *gag*

    True Heroes from A to Z

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  5. I have no earthly clue why I write either. It takes up time I guess and keeps me from minding being alone so much. So pleased I found you here.

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    Replies
    1. For me writings an itch, I can't not scratch

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