“Show don’t tell” is common advice among writers — but what does it really mean? This thorough guide answers that question with plenty of helpful examples. Also includes a Reedsy Live on the subject, courtesy of experienced professional editor Jim Thomas.
“The pen is mightier than the sword.” Writer Edgar Bulwer-Lytton made this keen observation nearly 200 years ago, but it remains just as true today. Writing is one of the most powerful mediums in existence, and a seemingly simple story can change countless lives — which is why so many of us choose to be ... read more »
Whether you’re working on your first book, or have published dozens of them already, my guess is: you’ve probably heard of Bookbub, if not used it yourself as a reader. But I also bet you’re not familiar with all the features and opportunities that the platform offers to authors. In a publishing world increasingly dominated ... read more »
Learning how to write a memoir is like studying to be an archeologist. Not only do you have to dig deep and sift through the sands for fragments on the past, you then have to piece it all together and discover what the story is. To help you tell a compelling story based on your ... read more »
No matter what your genre, learning how to write dialogue effectively is a vital part of any writer’s education. Poor dialogue can make readers put your book down in disgust — but great dialogue can transform your characters into truly believable people, and your readers into satisfied customers. Of course, the best kind of dialogue ... read more »
Let's just admit it: “What is a motif and how do you use it?” is a much less sexy question to ask than, “What’s your book about?” But it’s just as necessary. If the theme of a book is its heartbeat, then motifs in literature are the vessels that keep the blood coursing through the ... read more »
Many first-time authors want to find a literary agent as soon as they put the finishing touches on their debut masterpiece. And if you’re in a similar situation, it’s only natural to feel that way as well! But before we snap off a fresh roll of quarters and start dialing the numbers of some New ... read more »
In the software industry, programmers release “beta” versions of new programs that they get a select group of users to test. This way, any kinks can be worked out before it becomes available to the public. When it comes to publishing, the concept is the same, except the product being tested is a book, and ... read more »
Tips for finding and working with beta readers and sensitivity readers who provide invaluable reader-feedback before your manuscript hits the presses!
Superman might be a hero, but Tyrian Lannister is definitely not — he's an "anti-hero." Learn exactly what an anti-hero is here — with lots of examples!
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