Ever wondered what it is like to open the box containing your first published book? Sarah E. Morin, a first-time author with Enclave Publishing, received her books two days ago. Enjoy her wonderfully creative video of the experience! And then go buy her amazing novel, Waking Beauty.
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Conference Travel: What Could Go Wrong?
When traveling to a conference recently, I realized, as I always do when traveling, how many things can go wrong. Such as: Getting there 1.) The car taking me to the airport doesn’t show up. 2,) I don’t arrive at the airport on time. 3.) I accidentally pack something in my suitcase that sets off the airport security alarm. 4.) My flight is delayed. 5.) I miss my flight because of my …
Tools from the Front Lines: Writers Conferences
Last week this time, I was sitting beneath towering redwoods, the warm sun tickling my neck, watching as writers from all over the country converged to learn and commune at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers’ Conference. And I realized that, over the 35 years or so I’ve been involved in the Christian publishing world, like Steve, I’ve attended close to 150 writers conferences! Now, admittedly, I …
To Those Who Went Before Us…Thanks A Lot
Any author who experiences disappointment is bound to ask the question, “What am I doing wrong?” Using Rick Warren’s first line of The Purpose Driven Life, “It’s not about you,” might just be one explanation of why it is so hard to get published and succeed at it. Whether you have already been published or are an aspiring author, the greatest threat to your present or future writing career could …
A 40 Day Experience with Music
Last year I tried a musical experiment during the days of Lent (I wrote about it here). This year I attempted to do something similar. My musical choice was the “Suites for Keyboard” by George Frederic Handel. We are most familiar with Handel because of his famous “Messiah” oratorio. I did not realize that he also composed solo pieces for the keyboard. I am glad to have learned …
Add Something Good for Lent
We are nearing the end of the annual season of Lent, a time from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday, set aside to prepare and focus believer’s hearts and minds on the death and wonderful resurrection of Jesus. Some use this as a time to forego chocolate or some other pleasure, a sort of fasting from something that matters to them. Ultimately it is the discipline to resist temptation, since Jesus …
April Fools, the Writer’s Way
Many years ago, while I was working at Tyndale House Publishers as their senior editor for books, one of my author’s titles released in late March. A few days later, on April Fool’s Day, inspiration hit. Being the serious-minded, somber person that I am, I sent an email. It was addressed to one Mr. James Watkins, whom many of you know is a humor writer, and who loves to tease others–and who …
It Really Is Like Riding A Bike
By Michelle Van Loon Today, I’d like to introduce Michelle Van Loon as guest blogger for Holy Week. In 2016, NavPress will publish her new book focusing on the connections between Jewish traditions and our Christian faith. Michelle’s deeply-rooted faith in Christ and secular Jewish heritage are apparent in her creative, carefully-crafted storytelling. A focus on spiritual formation and education …
For Beginners: Ideas for Managing Social Media
One of the most common questions I receive from writers, especially writers just starting to build a platform, is how to handle social media. I don’t claim that my way is the only way or even the best way for everyone, but here are some of my ideas to get you started: Blogs Some writers ask if they should write one blog post a month. The consensus among industry professionals I know is that …
Tools from the Front Lines of Life: Authenticity
Some things have happened in my life in the last few months that, were I to put them in a novel, readers would say, “That’s just not believable. No way all that happens to one person!” Yeah. Wouldn’t that be nice? But here’s the thing: Hard times, good times…struggles, peace…abundance, desperate lack…sorrow, joy… It’s all gold for writers. Now, I’m not saying to go out there and experience …