Can Ya Help a Writer Out?

WriteOn Joliet is starting its ninth year supporting writers over eighteen in their writing journey. 

I don't know if the founder emeritus of this group had longevity in mind when she persuaded me into this venture with her, but I, for one, am amazed at our growth and the wonderful writers I've had the honor to meet along the way while we grow in our craft.

Now ever since the inception of WriteOn Joliet in February 2012, members have expressed a desire to attend the annual Printer's Row Lit Fest in Chicago.

The cost for a double, covered table for all of our books is expensive, and we, as a group, would like to cover all of the costs through sponsorships and fundraising.

So last year, I had an idea for a permanent fundraiser for our group, which we finally put together this month.

Yes, I'm selling a book.

The book is called Little Book of Revision: A Checklist for Fiction Writers and it's exactly as its says. 

Except for some definitions of terms, each page has one editing prompt. The rest is blank, so the writer can make notes about things to check and revise.

All proceeds (meaning everything except the actual cost of the physical book, taxes, and shipping) stay within WriteOn Joliet for WriteOn members.

If you write fiction or know someone who writes fiction, this book is perfect for you.

Below is a formal description. And below that is the link for ordering, along with a link for WriteOn Joliet, so you can learn more about the group, too.

Many writers are familiar with writing prompts, a few lines to spark their inspiration to get the words flowing. It’s hard to find revision prompts. Writers know they need to revise their stories. But sometimes writers need a few editing prompts to help them look critically and objectively at their work. 

That’s the reason for this workbook. 

Each page highlights one area of the story to check. The rest of the page is blank, so writers can jot some notes on trouble spots and possible ways to revise.

Buy Little Book of Revision: A Checklist for Fiction Writers here.

For more information about WriteOn Joliet, visit writeonjoliet.com.

Now That It's Out There...

 My publicist (back when I had a budget for one) would chastise me for my lack of self-promotion, but the very word leaves an icky taste in my mouth.

That said, one of my goals this year is to teach myself more about marketing, the type that doesn't come with the taste. I am learning that some people want to read what I've written and learn from knowledge I've acquired, which can't happen if I don't at least put the information out there.

That said. I was totally clueless when one of the reporters sent an email round the editorial staff yesterday with the subject line: Look who made the wall of the Plainfield Library !!!!

Who, I wondered, and then clicked on the attachment. Truly a face palm moment.

So if you're a writer, interested in the revision process, and will be anywhere in the vicinity of the Plainfield Library, swing by Monday night. It sounds like the group will be small, and I'm low-key and informal, really just a sitting 'round the table and sharing what I hope will be useful tips for shining up the prose.