Archive for September, 2010

Will E-books Kill the Printed Page?

September 29th, 2010 | Current Affairs | 10 Comments

Benjamin wrote to ask, "What's your perspective on all the new e-readers?"

History has taught us that as new technologies are developed, the culture adapts to them. We used to walk across the room to change TV channels. We used to stop and find a pay phone to call home. We used to re-type each page of a manuscript that had error. But we've adapted our lives to adjust to remote controls, cel phones, and PC's. (And, of course, the advent of TV's, telephones, and typewriters were cutting-edge technologies in their own days — each requiring adaptation from radios, telegraphs, and handwritten notes, respectively.) Right now we're moving from printed materials to digital materials, and that's creating a lot of change for people. My son will read a book on his cel phone — that's about all anyone needs to know regarding the future of digital technology. All those extant great books and words? They're all out there, ready to be interpreted through a new medium.  So you know what that means? If you don't own one yet, YOU are going to own an e-reader very soon. 
Michaela asked, "Will e-books kill printed books in the long run?' 

I don't honestly know about "the long run." But we've been living with books for roughly 500 years, and it's hard to see that changing. But sure, there are some rough waters ahead as we go through this change. Technology may be killing the cookbook. (Think about it — the last time you needed a recipe, did you go to a cookbook? Or did you simply go online and do a quick search for the ingredients?) Technology may be killing the do-it-yourself manual. (If you need help with a new software program, do you want to drive to Borders to buy a copy, or look for your solution immediately online for free?) It's clear that technology is changing the way we view books and written content. The Kindle was great because of the wireless ability to download books. The Sony Reader was nice because of the workability for those of us in the industry who want to read Word docs. The Nook is better than both, in terms of handling and use. And I think the iPad may outdo all of them because of the flexibility it offers (and no, I do NOT understand why Apple isn't touting the iPad as the future of ebook readers… THAT'S it's best strength). So, in my view, everyone who is reading this will own a digital reader in the next two or three years. And yeah, you can tell me how much you like the tactile feel of pages, the acrid scent of ink in a real book, etc. I like those too. But change happens, and we adapt. 

So the question that seems to be discussed most is usually posed in a fearful manner: "Will ebooks lead to the death of the printed book?" And my answer remains, "Not in my lifetime." We've got a very rich history with printed books, and I don't see them all disappearing any time soon. It'll lead to change, sure — in fact, we're already seeing that change. And change seems to be happening faster than it used to, so the speed with which we change to a digital book world is faster than when the culture was asked to adopt the automobile or the telephone. Still, there is no lack of interest in books. In fact, the world is becoming more literate, not less so (some readers will remember just a couple decades ago when the government was doing a report entitled "Why Johnny Can't Read" — nobody is much concerned with that issue today, since we read all the time). The concern for those of us who work in the industry (writers, editors, agents, publishers, booksellers) is more of distribution than creation. 


 We KNOW there's a readership. We KNOW people want material to read. What we're trying to figure out is how we can monetize it so that the creators can still make a living, and how the people who polish, market, and sell it can still make a living. That's the area everyone is really trying to figure out. It's changing considerably right now, and we have yet to arrive at that next stage where we've all determined who is making money, how they're making it, and what they're making. 
Janet wrote to ask, "Is it true you wore a kilt to the ACFW banquet?"

It's true. I was raised with a Scottish heritage, Janet, so a dress kilt (Prince Charlie jacket, dress sporran, Ghillie brogues, the whole schlamozzle) is part of dressing up for a formal event. 
By the way, my friend Keri Kent sent me this fabulous piece of advice — it PROVES men who wear kilts are heretics:

And this is fun — we were cited in the Publishers Weekly report on that convention — complete with a photo of an author we represent, double-Carol Award winner Jenny B Jones:

http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/book-news/religion/article/44625-crowded-conference-for-christian-fiction-writers-.html?utm_source=Publishers+Weekly%27s+Religion+BookLine&utm_campaign=1d273a3606-UA-15906914-1&utm_medium=email

 

Developing the Craft & Art of Writing – a guest blog

September 28th, 2010 | Current Affairs | 7 Comments

When I was growing up, my parents decided to sign me up for piano lessons. They hired my second grade schoolteacher to also be my piano teacher—I think I was her only piano student. She probably didn’t charge much and I really didn’t require much work; flashcards for reading music and making sure I was banging the right notes with the right fingers.

Two years later my second grade teacher moved away and so my parents found me a professional piano teacher who had dozens of students. She lived about thirty minutes away but she came highly recommended. She slotted me right into her typical rhythm and I followed the same path of hundreds before me—first the primer, then the secondary, then the suzuki, then the duets. I was learning but I wasn’t being offered anything just for me. It was education by curriculum.

I met a couple of kids during these years who could play piano just because they sat down and listened to music and played what they heard. I never could get those kids—I’ve not been blessed with that ability to just sit down and pick out the notes I hear. I don’t think there are too many people who can do that.

By the time I was old enough to realize what I wanted my parents found me a new teacher who lived just a few minutes from our house. Her house was small but she had managed to cram two baby pianos into the living room to sit side-by-side—those were the pianos we rarely got to touch. The lesson room was around the corner where she had her upright piano. Her name was Kathy, and she was the perfect piano teacher. If I wanted to learn something for church or school, I could bring it in and she would help me with it. But she also brought me a rich assortment of pieces both classical and contemporary to learn and was always finding new pieces at the music store for us to discover together. She wasn’t as worried with the notes I played as how I played them—did I sound like I cared? Like the music was within me? She taught me theory and made me go through a theory testing program offered by the university in town. She was worth every penny my parents paid because I learned not just how to play the piano with skill, but how to play it with art.

After high school I went to a conservatory of music for piano performance, and I guess because of that I was qualified to teach piano—a local family hired me to come and teach their three kids piano. Their youngest was four years old and could barely sit at the piano still enough to play it. I had an hour and a half to teach them each a half-hour lesson. Invariably, the oldest girl would get more time because she had more skill and I could work with her more on her pieces. The middle child just wanted to play Star Wars theme songs by ear, and like I said, the youngest was lucky to stay seated on the bench for five minutes at a time. The mom was not happy, though, when the youngest wouldn’t get her half-hour of lesson—makes me wonder in retrospect if I was also babysitter.

Nonetheless, teaching piano didn’t really work for me. I could play piano—heck, I was at a conservatory of music because I could play—but I was not the best teacher. Most of what I knew and remembered was from my piano teacher who taught me the art of piano playing. The basics had been drilled into me as a kid but I didn’t ever learn how to teach them. My wife is a professional educator so I see what it takes to be a good piano teacher, and that’s not my thing. My piano playing is so second nature to me that I can’t parse it out to teach it to other people. The best practicers are not necessarily the best teachers, nor are teachers always the best practicers.

In the end, I’m not a piano player by professional. All of that work and effort wasn’t so that I could sell a million records playing Bach or Beethoven or Chopin. I’ve used that foundation to learn many new instruments, to compose a little music on the side, and to play various styles of music at church and school. But the richness music has brought to my life is priceless—I can pick up most common instruments and play most songs in almost any context and have a clue what I’m doing. I have music I’ve composed that I look back on with fondness. My goal wasn’t professional performance, but I trained for that anyway.

Most of you reading this blog are writers. In what ways does your writing story parallel my musical journey? Both writers and musicians are artists—needing training, practice, and instruction. My story might not be all that different were I a painter or a dancer or a sculptor.

Maybe you find yourself needing more than just a critique group of your peers to reach the next level of your writing. You might already have an agent, or already have a publisher, but you aren’t finding the place where you are being challenged to reach greater heights as a writer—you aren’t being pushed artistically. Or you might still be searching for an agent or a publisher and wondering why you haven’t gotten signed yet.

The advantage to hiring your own editor who can coach you in your writing journey is that your editor doesn’t have to worry about the requirements of a publishing house or the word count of your manuscript according to certain guidelines—in fact your editor doesn’t have to be tied to a certain manuscript at all. He or she is free to focus on you as a writer and your growth in the craft and art of writing.

I am one of those editors; I do much of my private client work through the oldest full-service editorial firm in the country, The Editorial Department, founded in 1980 by Renni Browne, one of the most experienced editors working in publishing today and co-author of Self-Editing for Fiction Writers. If you are interested in developing yourself as a writer with professional, experienced help, you will find everything from pricing to staff bios on our website. We have an introductory critique service for only $35—so you can try before you buy, so to speak. Though we are confident you’ll find TED to be helpful, professional, and worth every penny.

If you’re just coming off of the ACFW conference, TED is offering a special giveaway of our $175 proposal and sample chapter evaluation—and we’re also rolling out a new entry-level service for a special price just for ACFW members. Stop by the website for details.

Andy Meisenheimer grew up reading Shakespeare, Agatha Christie, Michael Crichton, Ray Bradbury, and Chaim Potok. After working for six years at an imprint of HarperCollins, he is now a freelance editor, editing and coaching writers through The Editorial Department, as well as serving as a Fiction Editor at Red Fez Publications, an online literary journal. He also dabbles in writing and music-making in his free time. He lives with his wife, kid, and two dogs, near Grand Rapids, Michigan.




 

The Importance of a Polished Manuscript – A Guest Blog

September 27th, 2010 | Proposals | 13 Comments

Awhile ago, I asked an author to send me the first chapter of a manuscript they had queried. The author was unpublished, but they had an ok platform, which made me think that if the writing was fabulous I could maybe get somewhere with the project.

But the writing wasn’t fabulous. It lacked emotion and jumped around too much to allow the reader any sort of bearings. So, I declined representation, citing the author’s writing as my primary reason.

And here’s where it gets sad.

The author wrote me backing saying that they knew the manuscript was weak—that it was in fact the weakest of their manuscripts—but that they had sent it out anyway without really considering how it would affect the aftermath.

I’m not sure what advice writers are getting these days, but it appears as though it’s the general mindset that agents and editors exist to perfect, polish and publish. That we love spending our time teaching writers storytelling basics and that we’re much more energized by the possibility of what could be than the reality of what is.

Um… Folks, I think that’s a load of crap.

Over and over I come across brilliant story ideas backed by wonky rough drafts, exciting plotlines headlined by cookie cutter characters, and moving scenes flooded with embarrassing grammar and punctuation.

And I reject every one.

This isn’t a race, folks. There are no extra points for finishing first. But there are extra points for finishing with a publishable manuscript.

Don’t query until the manuscript is perfect. You’ll save yourself a lot of heartache.

-       Amanda Luedeke is an Agent at MacGregor Literary


 

And some follow-up to ACFW questions…

September 24th, 2010 | Conferences | 7 Comments

Jan wrote to say, "When you were asked at the ACFW conference what you're looking for, you said 'high-concept literary fiction for the Christian or general market.' I don't even know what that means. Can you help?"

I can try. Someone in a group setting asked me to describe what I was looking for, and since I was afraid I'd have to start doing drugs if I had to face a bunch of writers who wanted to tell me about their Amish romances, that's what I came up with. I'd love to say I labored over it, but… well, it's not bad. I do a lot of literary fiction — probably more than most of the other CBA agents who attended. But I've learned that literary fiction sells best when it's tied to a high concept, rather than another one of those "Christian woman faces a difficult struggle which allows her to ruminate on her crappy life" type of literary novels. And I'm moving more and more toward the general market, so… that's what I said. 

Now. How would I define it? Um, how's this: I like contemporary fiction that doesn't easily fit into some common genre category, but still offers a big enough story to make me pay attention. I suppose I need it to sound more artsy. Literary novelists sometimes have to be reminded that (a) I have to like your lead character if I'm going to keep reading, and (b) there has to be a big enough story to actually have a book, and (c) it has to seem enjoyable enough at the front end that I'll want to read the whole thing. Therefore I tend to look for those things in literary fiction. When you look at some of the literary novelists I represent (Lisa Samson, Susan Meissner, Claudia Burney, Gina Holmes, Ginger Garrett, Joyce Magnin, even Kimberly Stuart, who is lighter than the others but crafts a wonderfully entertaining story), they all fit those descriptors. Does that help at all? You're welcome to rent my definition. This lousy economy has created a glut of literary definitions, as you know, so some of them have been on the market for months.

And several people wrote to ask, "What would you do to improve the conference experience for writers?"

Hey, I love writing conferences. I don't do as many as some other agents because I just can't take the time to go to a bunch of them any more — Ive got authors I represent who need me working on their behalf. Still, I try to make it to a couple each year, and do the best job I can of sharing information. Frankly, the ACFW is as good of an annual conference as there is. The faculty are professionals, the topics are good, and the whole thing runs like clockwork. I've been happy to be part of it. So let me offer my thanks to the ACFW staff first. 

A few things people who are planning writing conferences could keep in mind? Well, think about going to the local newspaper and asking them to send a workshop leader. Most papers have someone who does community public relations (they will do this for free). A workshop on "writing for the newspaper" would be nice. You could also consider talking with local magazines — they offer real-world opportunities, and would be available to come for a day, so there are low travel costs, an no need to put them up. In addition, most states have a list of publishers. If you were putting on a conference, you might try linking to a local publisher. It'll build the list of publshers participating, and will give authors wider chances to talk to publishers. Similarly, if the local University has a press, you could ask them to send an editor. 

I still like seeing an author interviewed, rather than just offering a presentation. I've had some great experiences where an author shows up, does a short reading, and just takes questions or is interviewed by someone skilled at asking insightful questions. And I'd love it if agent panels were more focused — like five agents talking about romance novels, or about digital rights, or… whatever. 

If someone local has written a play or a movie, ask them to come in and speak. Show the movie (or invite people to attend a performance of the play), then let everyone talk with the author. For that matter, you can always ask local writers to show up and speak (which will save the conference money). You can also ask a writer to bring one chapter of a work in progress, put it up on a screen for all to see, and have them go over it, showing writers how they rewrite and make changes. (I've also seen this done with a writer and editor doing it.)  If there are writing groups in the area, or bookstores that host writing groups, don't forget to invite them. Getting some involvement with a college would be nice. Have them inform the students, especially the students in writing or English or journalism. Maybe give full-time students a discount, but the big deal is to have them help you advertise and promote the conference.  

Those are my random thoughts. If you're looking for a conference to attend soon, I mentioned the Southwest Writers Studio yesterday: www.swcws.com

There is also a writing conference coming up in Indianapolis the weekend of November 6 (the same weekend I'm doing my one-day "perfect book proposal" seminar in Richmond VA). So you've got plenty of options. And if you're tired of reading serious stuff and simply need something funny to check out, by all means visit the Landover B
aptist site: http://www.landoverbaptist.org. Some of it is in bad taste — but some of it is very funny, and will make you laugh out loud. (Thanks to ACFW'ers for showing this to me!)



Some ACFW Notes…

September 23rd, 2010 | Conferences, Current Affairs | 13 Comments

There has been a ton of buzz in the media about the just-completed American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) conference. It was big (more than 600 writers, about 700 people attending), it was fun (Susan May Warren teaching a line dance to 100 people at her pizza party stands out), and it has become influential (lots of media there — I had interviews with a national magazine and a large newspaper). A few things that stood out for me:

-As noted yesterday, Sandra Bishop of MacGregor Literary won "Agent of the Year." Congrats, SB! Well deserved. 

-Jenny B Jones, an author we represent, won two "Book of the Year" Awards, in both the "Contemporary Romance" (for her novel Just Between You and Me) and the "Young Adult" categories (for I'm So Sure). 

-Other authors we represent who were finalists in various categories included Vickie McDonough (a two-time finalist in the "Historical" category, plus a finalist in the "Short Contemporary" category), Joyce Magnin (in the "Long Contemporary" category for her fabulous book The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow), Susan Meissner (one of the great novelists in CBA today, for White Picket Fences),  Mindy Starns Clark (for Under the Cajun Moon), Darlene Franklin (for A String of Murders), Janice Thompson (also a two-time finalist, for Pushing Up Daisies as well as Love Finds You in Poetry, Texas), Rachel Hauck's Sweet By and By in the "Women's Fiction" category, Lynette Sowell (for All That Glitters), and Jill Williamson (for By Darkness Hid - which we didn't represent at the time, but Jill is now represented by Amanda Luedeke). So a great night for our authors. 

-By the way, the Book of the Year Award is now The Carol Award, named for longtime Bethany House fiction director Carol Johnson, who had significant influence on the direction and growth of Christian fiction over the past 25 years. In a very touching moment, Carol was awarded the ACFW Lifetime Achievement Award by Jeanette Oke — one of the authors who helped propel Christian fiction into the spotlight. Ms Oke has had serious health issues in recent years, and it was good to see her up and looking well. 

-Curtis Riskey, the new Executive Director of CBA, was kind enough to come into my marketing workshop and chat for a while about the partnership authors have with retailers. He was encouraging and on point, and everyone came away feeling better about the future of CBA retailers.

-People have asked me for highlights, but it's tough for me to say because I don't have time to attend a lot of the sessions — my schedule is filled with author and editor meetings. I heard a lot of folks say they enjoyed the general session speaker, novelist Tim Downs. I had a great time team-teaching the fiction marketing seminar with my good buddy Jim Rubart (who also played guitar in the band). There was apparently a sale on asparagus in the midwest, so we got to have fresh asparagus spears every meal (including, um, breakfast). The hotel and accommodations were great. Lots of friends to visit with late at night. And the banquet, while way too long at three-and-a-half hours, was interesting and fun. (I was relieved when Amanda announced she had decided against borrowing Lady Gaga's meat dress for the banquet.) 

-If you're interested, there is a great article in Publishers Weekly on the ACFW conference here:

http://blogs.publishersweekly.com/blogs/beyondherbook/?p=2207&utm_source=Pub

-And, as long as we're talking fiction, let me share a fascinating fact coming on the heels of the biggest ACFW conference ever: according to a new study from the ECPA, Christian readers bought almost as many novels as they did Bibles last year. Here’s a link to the story:

http://www.christianretailing.com/index.php/newsletter/latest-etailing/21992-fiction-nearly-rivals-bible-purchases

-Three other quick things on today's menu… 

First, the Southwest Christian Writers Studio is coming up October 18-22 in New Mexico. The lineup of talent and topics sounds really good, so if all this talk of the ACFW conference has you motivated, you may want to look into this one. You can check it out here: http://altongansky.typepad.com/swcws/

Second, I'm teaching a one-day workshop in Richmond, VA, on Saturday, Nov 6. It's called "The Perfect Book Proposal," and is sponsored by the local ACFW group and the Virginia RWA. You can get more details from Tiffany Colter at tiffcolter@gmail.com. 

Third, marketing guru Rob Eager sent me details about his upcoming one-day workshop, also on Saturday, November 6th, in Atlanta. It's called “How to Sell Books Like WildFire,” and provides advanced-level book marketing instruction that’s applicable to authors at all levels. Space is limited to the first 10 authors who register. For a small investment, you will learn how to:

·         Build a distinctive brand that sets their books apart from the crowd.

·         Learn to boost book sales by driving readers to bookstores and websites.

·         Get more exposure via media interviews and speaking engagements.

·         Connect with influential leaders who can spread word of mouth.

·         Learn what really works with social media to promote a book.

·         Develop a personalized marketing plan that focuses on the author’s strengths.


·         Make new friendships with fellow authors who provide ongoing support and share best practices.

For registration and information, please visit:  http://www.startawildfire.com/authorworkshop.html

As I said, there's a lot going on. Now get back to your writing! 

Home from ACFW … (where Sandra won Agent of the Year!)

September 22nd, 2010 | Books, Career | 25 Comments


MacGregor Team at ACFW 2010  Chip, Amanda, and I are all just coming off a six
day road trip to ACFW conference, followed by visits to several publishers. It’s
always good to get home.

The conference was great. We had a lot of fun
connecting with friends and associates in the world of ACFW.  I worked very hard meeting hopeful authors;
connecting and praying with my clients; squeezing in times to confer with Chip
and Amanda whenever possible. Between us, we taught or participated in at least
half a dozen teaching and/or industry sessions. Chip did a great job as emcee
of Susan May Warren’s My Book Therapy pizza party. Though I had to duck out
early to attend a publishing dinner, I hear he helped move things along at the line
dance lesson which followed. Here’s a YouTube link to one of the most well
organized line dance lessons I’ve ever seen … http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNvFf7tQH0w.

At the awards banquet, we were pleased to cheer
for all the winners, and picked up a few awards ourselves. Our very own Jenny
B. Jones won twice; once in the Young Adult category for I’m So Sure (Thomas Nelson) and again in the Long Contepmorary
Romance category for Just Between You and
Me (Thomas Nelson).

Jenny is always a hoot, and her off the cuff
acceptance speeches were no exception. If you weren’t there and would like to
get an asparagus-free taste of the awards banquet, check out the liveblog at http://acfw.com/conference/liveblog.shtml
led by Tyson Wynn of Wynn-Wynn Media.

By the time the Agent of the Year was announced, I’d
thoroughly decided there was no way I would possibly be walking up front to
accept the award, so I was thoroughly shocked, quite honestly, when my name was
called. I think my thirty-second-at-best acceptance remarks relayed this.

I will admit I was asked to prepare a speech just
in case, which I did. But learning mid-conference that winners would have 30
seconds max to say thanks, I ditched it.

Still, I think it expresses very well what this
award means to me, so I’ll share it here.

When
I heard I was nominated and realized there was the chance that I might have to
trot up to the front of the room and receive recognition, I hoped to find something
in my closet which I hadn’t already worn to other ACFW and conference events. But
… no luck. I’m not much of a shopper, actually. So it took a bit of a nudge from
my husband, offers of help from my two best girlfriends, and some pre-shopping
advice from a fashion savvy author I represent, to get me to the “social wear”
department of our local upscale department store. “Don’t worry about the price,”
they all said. “Just find something that makes you feel fabulous.”

After
selecting as many dresses as possible to take into the dressing room at once
(as much as I hate shopping in general, I loathe the back and forth between the
racks and dressing room even more) I narrowed it down to three, then one,
marched over to the jewelry counter to find jewelry to accent the dress, then
escorted my usual frugal self to the register without stopping too long to
ponder the fact that the dress I chose was (of course) the most expensive of
the bunch and (gasp) not on sale. It did make me feel fabulous, though, so I
caved and bought it.

And
then the next morning at church Randy Alcorn, whose book THE TREASURE PRINCIPLE
has greatly influenced my thoughts on money and possessions, was a guest
speaker. Randy, in his very gentle-yet-convicting way, reminded me (well, it
wasn’t just me, but it felt like it) that God provides for us so that we, the
church, can provide for others.

My
soul said amen. And then it started doing a number on my conscience. Suddenly
the price tag of that dress started to matter again. Before the day was out, I
decided I’d be returning the dress and looking elsewhere for something with a
more conservative price. And that I’d be praying for an opportunity to up my
contributions to others in need. It’s not the first time God influenced my life
through the work of a book or author.

Before
I was even aware there were such things as “Christian books” (which begs the
question – can a book be a Christian?) authors like John Steinbeck, Norman Maclean,
Elizabeth Berg, and Gabriel Garcia- Marquez helped shape my sensibilities for
what makes a good story good. 

Back
in the day when I was a new believer and Christian fiction was housed on one
shelf, Frank Peretti’s THIS PRESENT DARKNESS opened my eyes to the reality that
we live in a battlefield, and are responsible for keeping ourselves girded in
prayer and armed with truth.

Donald
Miller’s, TO OWN A DRAGON, helped usher me through a very dark time in my life
when I realized I still had “Daddy Issues” I needed to resolve.

A
few years ago, Randy Alcorn gave me a signed copy of his book HEAVEN, which
opened my eyes to the delights of the age to come. And then, God gave me the
opportunity to share these insights with the twelve year old daughter of my
best friend who was losing a battle to brain cancer but looking forward more
each day to meeting Jesus.

When
I first began agenting, I wondered if my dream to create a bridge for Christian
fiction authors to inspire the world to a higher standard of entertainment was
realistic. Leif Enger’s PEACE LIKE A RIVER showed me that it is. Learning that
Barnes & Noble had chosen to place Carla Stewart’s CHASING LILACS at the
front table of every store across the country this past summer helped affirm my
confidence that I do indeed recognize good writing, and that my endeavors to
represent quality books – and authors – who make a difference in our world is
worthwhile.

Lisa
Samson’s book QUAKER SUMMER helped dawn in me the notion of looking for an
opportunity to reach out to my local community – even if it only felt like a
tiny drop in a very, very big bucket.

Reading
Melanie’s Dobson’s book LOVE FINDS YOU IN LIBERTY, INDIANA while my son’s class
rehearsed their roles in a civil war peace cotillion added a fullness to my
appreciation of the struggles of our founders and forefathers. And mothers.

This
summer I had a chance to meet Arloa Sutter in person – she’s an author I
represent whose new book THE INVISIBLE just released. As the director of
Breakthrough Urban Ministries in East Garfield, Chicago, the work she is doing
on a daily basis to help people in one of the most impoverished communities in
America is inspiring. But the reality of her message and her life – that
there’s always hope – came at a time when I needed that reaffirmed as the
economy struggled to recover from a downward spiral and so many of the
yet-to-be published authors I represent needed encouragement to keep their heads
up, and continue fighting the good fight with me – even when prospects seem
bleak.

Everyday
there are stories being written, and read. Hearts – and consciences – being
challenged and changed all because of books.

So,
even if it means I have to trek back to the mall the next chance I get, I’m
grateful for Randy, and for other authors whose books have shaped who I am, and
who I am still becoming.

To
be a part of this is honestly reward enough, though I am honored to have
received recognition for it.

A
sincere thank you to Chip MacGregor, the authors I’m privileged to help along
in their publishing journeys and whose letters were responsible for my
nomination, and all the authors whose work has influenced me over the years.

Like
I said, I’ll be returning the mall very soon to return the dress I left hanging
in my closet when I packed for ACFW.

I’m
keeping the earrings, though.

Sandra

The ACFW Conference is next weekend – Sept 17-19

September 10th, 2010 | Conferences | 16 Comments

As a writer, you probably spend a lot of time sitting at your desk, banging out words, pondering your story. You do some research online, write out a chapter, do some revising. Sure, you spend some time emailing friends to try and see what else everyone is up to, but for the most part the things you do as a writer are done alone. Writing is a solitary job. Every successful writer I know spends a lot of time along with their thoughts, sitting at a computer, creating worlds and conversations in their head. 

If you're a novelist, that's exactly why you need to think about coming to the ACFW conference next weekend in Indianapolis. Because all of those solitary writers out there also feel a need to meet with other people who love books and words. A writing conference is a chance to connect, to learn, to network, to hear about opportunities, to see old friends, and to make new ones. Let me suggest five benefits to attending the annual ACFW conference…

First, it's a chance to LEARN. Just take a look at some of the workshops being taught at this year's conference — information on creating strong proposals, on developing better characters, on using humor, on writing to specific niche audiences (there's even a workshop on "how to write Amish"!). There are a couple dozen workshops you can attend, and most are taught by bestselling novelists or experienced industry professionals (for example, I think the concept of listening to the editorial team from Thomas Nelson talk through what an editorial meeting is like sounds tremendously valuable). 

Second, it's a chance to POLISH. The conference offers continuing sessions, where you'll be able to get more in-depth on a topic. Multi-bestselling author Tracie Peterson is there to talk about crafting novels. Famed writing instructor Dr. Dennis Hensley will be talking about symbolism and structure. Bestselling novelists Susan May Warren & Rachel Hauck of My Book Therapy (which has some of the BEST material on creating good fiction) will be helping you craft better scenes. Jim Rubart, a 20-year marketing veteran, is offering his experience to help you know how to market your books. And there are a bunch of other in-depth tracks you can take. 

Third, it's a chance to NETWORK. You'll see hundreds of other writers there — people who love books and words as much as you do, and who want to explore how to get better at what they do. There will be editors there, representing a wide variety of publishing houses. You'll be able to set up one-on-one appointments, just to talk with them about your manuscript. There's also a chance to talk with several agents — in fact, a writing conference like this is one of the few place you can go and connect with literary agents. Between sessions, at meals, during the social times, and in the hallways you'll be surrounded by industry professionals. Make sure to use those opportunities to meet people and get to know other writers. 

Fourth, it's a chance to CONNECT with friends. You'll see some people you know, and be introduced to some folks you've read but never met. There will be an opportunity to link up with a critique group, or to simply meet other writers from your area. When I was a young writer, I went to a conference and introduced myself to people. I made friends that helped me get connected with the local writing scene, and that led to my first paid book-writing gig. 

Fifth, it's a chance to REFLECT. There will be time to think, time to sing, time to talk, and time to laugh. Part of the value of being away at a conference is that it forces you to get out of your normal routine — so you can use that to think through what you'd like to be writing, and how you'd like to approach it. You can join a small group for a quiet night of discussion, or you can grab friends and sit laughing in the lobby until all hours of the night. 

I'm a huge fan of the ACFW conference — in fact, I'm on record as saying it's the most practical conference for Christian writers to attend. I'll be there again, meeting with authors and wearing my kilt and appreciating friends and trying to think of something to say in a one-on-one appointment that doesn't sound trite and shallow. Make sure to say hello. 

Still talking books and authors…

September 8th, 2010 | Books, Current Affairs | 9 Comments

Okay, so on Monday I spent some time answering questions from people about which books I’ve been reading and what I like. On Tuesday I got this response from someone: “Well, there’s really only ONE BOOK – the Bible. It’s more than a book, so nothing compares to it. But books written by the muse of man that I have enjoyed would include…”

Um… where do I start? First, there isn’t only “one book.” There are a lot of books, many of great value – even to people of faith. Second, I’ve never heard of a book that wasn’t “written by the muse of man.” For crying out loud. Third, that is without a doubt the most pompous note I’ve received in years. 

Look, I appreciate that I have people of faith reading my blog. I'm a person of faith, and I represent a lot of Christian books. But I also live in the real world, not some hokey spiritual world where we need to always point out that we are religious. So give it a rest. Learn to write words that people want to read and you'll find more success. Geez…

Janet wrote to say, “Looking at all the religious fiction writers being published today, who do you 
think will be read and admired 25 years from now?”

First, this is a great question. It's also a bit of a slippery topic, since "popularity" and "longevity" don't always go hand in hand (in writing or in any other art). Tastes change and that pushes the culture away from one author and toward another. For example, Ernest Hemingway has long been considered one of America’s greatest writers. But as readers have moved away from his books, and as time has marched on, his reputation as a stylist has flagged considerably. And his buddy F. Scott Fitzgerald, who was reduced to writing B-movie scripts late in life because the reading public had soured on his work, now commands great respect from the literary community. So… you never know how time is going to treat writers.

Let me offer an example in religious publishing: I think Terri Blackstock is one of the best of the Christian thriller writers right now. However, with the contemporary feel of her books, I doubt people will be reading and studying her work in 25 years. That’s not to run her down – it’s simply to say they are contemporary stories, and those tend to fade quickly. (Remember just a few short years ago? We were all reading Tom Clancy.) As an agent, I don't want any of the authors I represent to think I'm running down their work if I don't select them as "writer of the century." But that's the hand I'm playing with this post today.

Second, in my view, your question begs a recency debate. Twenty-five years from now, I believe they'll still be reading and discussing Madeleine L'Engle and Walter Wangerin… but is it fair to name two of the old guard in CBA? I don’t know. So this is a stab in the dark. I think, 25 years from now, people will still be reading Sue Monk Kidd novels, and the “Hawk & the Dove” trilogy from Penelope Wilcock. I think the jury is still out regarding Francine Rivers, even though that may sound silly when you consider her success. And I can think of about five or six writers who could make this list if they continue to build on their talent, but they simply don't have a big enough body of work yet for us to make a clear judgment (names on that list would include Leif Enger and Haven Kimmel, who have immense talent and will need to match that with big ideas). I also think that there are numerous authors who have the talent and desire to do exceedingly well in this business, but to this point their books haven't quite matched up to their ability, so we need to be patient and see what happens over time. 

Third, this points to a question for writers: What are the qualities that make a story timeless? Doubtless that would include facing the great questions of life, and having likable characters face difficulties we all can relate to. But the problem with trying to create timeless fiction is that tastes change so much. Would LEFT BEHIND have been as popular today as it was in the 1990’s? No. Would HARRY POTTER have been as wildly successful in the 1950’s as it was fifty years later? I doubt it. So I think every writer writes for his or her own time, for their own generation, not for eternity.

On the nonfiction side, we can see something similar. People a quarter-century in the future will still be reading Frederick Buecher and John R.W. Stott, but they've become old-guard. I'd say the current names that will have a lasting impact are Alister McGrath and Brennan Manning (maybe John Piper, but I'm leery). I'm in the minority in thinking Brian McLaren is a flash in the pan, and I don't think names like John Eldredge and Max Lucado will have staying power beyond their lifetimes, being too tied to our current culture. Finally, I should note that I honestly think a couple of current authors I represent have the depth and talent to make a list like this, but they haven't yet had the success or the longevity needed to prove me correct yet.

Betting on authors 25 years in the future is a bit like betting horses — much depends on things beyond skill. There is timing, topicality, significance, and God's sovereignty (for my super-spiritual friends) or, if you don't mind my saying so, good old fashioned dumb luck. But I think a few of these folks are likely candidates. Would love to know who you think we'll be reading in 25 years.

And by the way, author Jim Rubart (the writer of the new bestseller ROOMS) is doing a booksigning with Paul Young, author of THE SHACK, this Friday night in Seattle. It's at the University Village Barnes & Noble at 7. If you're in the area, stop in and say hello.

 

Talking Books

September 6th, 2010 | Books, Current Affairs | 10 Comments

People have been asking me about books…

Vicki wrote to ask, “With all the new books coming out this fall, is there one that really stands out? Something you can’t wait to read?”

Sure. I’m a huge Mark Twain fan, and when he wrote his autobiography he asked that it not be published until 100 years after his death. The first volume (of three) releases this fall. I CAN’T WAIT.

Dawn asked me, "What is the book you're most excited about these days?" 

From a business point of view? Well, Jim Rubart's ROOMS has been a steady-but-slow-grower, but after several months on the market it's just now hitting the bestseller lists (currently #18 on the ECPA fiction list). I'm excited about that one, because I think the more people who hear about it, the more will read it, and the bigger the fan base it will develop. I've said from the beginning that one had a chance to be a huge hit. And I should note that one author who is really generating excitement in the industry these days is Irene Hannon. I was listening to some editors talk at a conference recently, and the fiction director at a major house said, "Of course, Irene Hannon looks like she's going to own the romantic suspense category in CBA — she's taken the place of Dee Henderson." As you can imagine, that made me very happy. Irene is a total pro, has sold more than a million Harleqiun books, and it’s nice to see her books at Revell do so well in the broader market.

Deborah sent this: "I like literary fiction, and you tend to talk about literaries a lot. Which new releases would you recommend I read?"

I'm finally finished THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE ASSOCIATION, and loved it. Then read Audrey Niffenegger's HER FEARFUL SYMMETRY and was disappointed. But I'll tell you, if you don't read Lisa Samson's RESURRECTION IN MAY or Susan Meissner's LADY IN WAITING, you're missing out on two great reads. Sandra Bishop gave me a copy of Carla Stewart's CHASING LILACS — a wonderful read. So is Gina Holmes' novel, CROSSING OCEANS. (And yes, I represent several of these authors.)

Melody asked, "What book have you read recently and simply loved?"

That's always hard because we represent a lot of books, and frankly I don't represent anything unless I actually LIKE it. (For example, I think STUFF CHRISTIANS LIKE is a fabulous, wonderfully funny book. I was proud to represent it.) So I could point to great books from a dozen authors I’m really proud ot. But it's a fair question, so let me list a book or two I did NOT represent… THE HELP is really good. So is THREE CUPS OF TEA. Take a look at RADICAL, a book from David Platt. I'd never heard of it until the editor, Laura Barker, handed me a copy. Loved it. Oh, and I picked up a copy of ANCIENT PATHWAYS by David Robinson yesterday, which takes the Rule of St Benedict and moves it into contemporary times. Very well done.

Lauren came to me with this: "Can you recommend any hidden gems — books or authors we haven't heard about, but ought to?"

Well, sure… I really like Philip Gulley's work, and nobody seems to give him much attention any more. A fabulous writer. And I just re-read a couple of Tom Bodet's novels (he's the guy who says, "We'll leave the light on for you"), and was reminded of what a good writer he is. Try THE END OF THE ROAD. Among the authors I represent, I'd encourage you to take a look at Ginger Garrett's works, as well as the novels of Kimberly Stuart. They're both producing excellent books (Ginger writes historicals, Kim contemporary comedic novels) that haven't received their due. 

Lori wrote, “You spend a lot of time talking about fiction, but I know you’re a nonfiction reader. Aside from the authors you represent, what excites you?”

I’m a huge Sebastian Junger fan, and I’ve yet to read WAR, so I’m looking forward to digging into that. I still have yet to read my copy of THE ART OF RACING WITH THE RAIN. And I’m looking forward to Vikram Akula’s A FISTFUL OF RICE, because friends in the industry have told me his book about creating a business model that combines capitalism with social justice is really strong.

Finally, Dave wants to know, "Now that it's football season, are there are great sports books you can recommend?" 

Absolutely. Check out BLOOD, SWEAT, AND CHALK, which is a great book about how the best NFL coaches built today's game. And Pat Kirwan's TAKE YOUR EYE O
FF THE BALL is a must for those who want to understand football better. Chad Gibbs has just released GOD & FOOTBALL, about the religion of the sport in SEC country. He's an excellent writer, and the book is funny and insightful. And one you haven't heard about yet is David Thomas' REMEMBER WHY YOU PLAY, the true story of a private high school football team that plays a game against a reform school team. Davis is a full-time sports writer, his book is being made into a movie, and you'll find the book has interesting storylines and nice insights into life.  

 

 

Talking Agents and Authors

September 1st, 2010 | Agents, Questions from Beginners | 10 Comments

 Suzanne wrote to ask, “How do agents feel about being ‘talked about’ by their clients? I rarely see published authors mention their agents in conversations, or hear them say, ‘My agent told me…’  Is there a protocol for mentioning your agent?”

I think you should feel free to say, "Sandra Bishop is my agent” or “I’m represented by Amanda Luedeke.” Most agents don't mind at all being talked about by their authors. We might get nervous if you were giving it out to everyone at a conference ("Call my agent Chip with this idea – here’s his home number"), but aside from that, there's no problem with talking about your agent to people. However, if it makes you feel nervous, you can just pass around a note in gym class ("I like Chip – check X for 'yes' or Y for 'no'").

Joni wrote and noted, “In a recent column, you said that agents prefer ‘proven authors.’ But then you went on to talk about how tough it is to get published without an agent. How can I be a ‘proven writer’ if I’m not published? How can I be a ‘proven writer’ if I don’t have an agent?”

You know, on its face that might seem logically inconsistent… but it's not. At least, not in my view. What I mean by a "proven writer’ is someone who has proven themselves, whether by books, articles, a blog, e-zines, curricula, or what have you. Someone who has done enough writing to prove himself or herself to me. If you haven't proven you can write, then you're going to have a hard time finding an agent. That's what I meant. Not just proven by doing books, but proven as in "she has proved to everyone she can write, and she knows it."

Writing fiction has its own set of issues, and it's very hard to prove yourself apart from doing some books. Joining a writing group and doing well with them is a nice step. I don't know if there's a way to prove yourself apart from that with fiction – maybe by doing short stories in literary journals.

This is the classic author/agent question. You can’t get published unless you have an agent; but you can't have an agent unless you're published. A conundrum, to be sure. It is fair? Of course not. (Show me the Bible verse where God promises "life is going to be fair.") It's just one of those frustrating difficulties we live with.

Jim wrote this: “I’m just starting out and really want to get my Christian book published. What sort of advice do you have for me?”

To begin, you may find it helpful to begin connecting with other writers via an online web group. Try visiting the Yahoo group The Writers View, a Christian discussion group of more than a thousand writers who explore topics and questions each week. That's a nice place to start, and it's free. (If you’re not writing religious fiction, there are a bunch of other online groups you can locate.) You could also consider attending a writers' conference — check out something like the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference, or the Write to Publish Conference at Wheaton College. There are many others, but those are two excellent conferences. (If you’re writing a novel, you should definitely check out the American Christian Fiction Writers organization. They’re great, and their conference is happening in Indianapolis later this month.) A conference like that will give you a chance to meet other writers face to face, take some excellent writing workshops, and introduce yourself to editors and agents. And, of course, you can always choose to take a live or online writing class, just to improve your craft. You may want to check out a proven writing journal such as Writers Digest, which offers a TON of writing advice for very little money. There are a bunch of excellent writing books on the market, of course, and they can really help you hone your skill. If you need some suggestions – well, check the sidebar of this blog. And if you've got a writing group in your community, it's nice to be able to show our work to others and let them critique it once per month. That should get you started. Blessings on your writing journey.

By the way, literary agent and friend Janet Grant wrote about agents and authors  today on her blog. I love what she had to say (and you’ll find all sorts of useful stuff on her blog anyway). Check it out at:   http://www.booksandsuch.biz/blog/

And, while I'm thinking about it, novelist Ted Dekker often has interesting stuff to discuss on his Facebook blog. Today he's talking about "how much sex to insert into a novel," noting that his publisher in Holland just dropped his latest book for being "too sensual." He's got an interesting discussion going — as he often does on his Facebook wall. Check it out at: http://www.facebook.com/notes/ted-dekker/the-final-taboo-why-holland-has-banned-my-novel-immanuels-veins/431675774854

Finally, in case you can’t get enough Chip, Nicole Petrino-Salter interviewed me on her blog yesterday. It turns out I’m charming and acerbic. You can read the whole schlamozzle at : http://hopeofglory.typepad.com/into_the_fire/