Tag: fiction
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The “Too Classic” Problem in Picture Books and How to Fix It
As a kid lit literary agent, I read hundreds—if not thousands—of picture book submissions every year. And one thing I keep noticing in manuscripts that may be holding authors back from landing representation is this—the writing feels too classic. Now, don’t get me wrong. Classics like The Velveteen Rabbit and The Tale of Peter Rabbit…
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How to Title Your Manuscript When Querying: Tips That Catch an Agent’s Eye
When you’re querying agents, your title is your story’s handshake—your first impression. A great manuscript title doesn’t just sound good; it hints at genre, tone, and emotional promise. While titles can change during the publishing process, a strong one helps your submission stand out from the slush pile. So how do you craft one that…
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Losing My Father While He’s Still Alive
I writhe my hands in my lap. Out the passenger-seat window familiar scenery appears—decrepit orange groves and crumbling fences. “You okay?” Brayden asks. “We don’t have to do this. I’ll turn around.” “No, no. I need to see him. It’ll be fine.” But I don’t trust the words I’ve just spoken. Over the last few…
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A Self-Editing Guide for Authors Part 2 – Line Edits
Once we get our stories developmentally healthy (Part 1), it’s time to analyze our word choice. And every single word matters. I’m gonna geek out on this part. Because I LOVE revising on a line level. It’s literally my favorite part of the revision process. You might be thinking, she’s being picky and petty. And…
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The Anatomy of a Scene
At it’s simplistic form, a novel is merely an opening scene, followed by scenes of rising action to a climax, followed by scenes of falling action to a conclusion. That’s it. But what constitutes a scene? Well writing friends, I’m about to break it down for you in a formulaic template that will keep your…
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My Top Lucky Thirteen Writing Podcasts for 2024
Hello, authors in all phases of your writing journey. As a new associate literary agent at The Purcell Agency, I hope to help every author who queries me, or who stumbles across my website, to come away with something valuable. This resource list is one. If you’ve read anything about me, and fine if you…
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Elabeth Cooney Author Spotlight
I’m excited to share my interview with poetry author Elabeth Cooney! Elabeth, tell us a little about yourself. Hello! My name is Elizabeth Jade Cooney, also known as “Elabeth Cooney”. In addition to being a poet, I am currently a university psychology student. Beautiful Disasters What is the story behind your story? Mental illness and…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 18: Interview with Riley Kilmore Author of Shay the Brave
In this episode, Riley and I talk about her upcoming MG debut Shay the Brave. About Riley In addition to her 20 years as a firefighter, Kilmore’s been a cop and a homeschool mom. She’s leaped from an airplane or two, sailed around the world, and with her husband of 36 years has raised six…
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J.K. Raymond Author Spotlight
About the Author J.K. Raymond received her Bachelor of Arts from Fontbonne University in St. Louis in 1995 where she fell in love with everything in St. Louis and under it! Additionally, she obtained a Missouri teacher certification in 1995 for art K-12. J.K. continued her education at Fontbonne University in 2005 adding an additional…
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Riley Kilmore Author Spotlight
I’m excited to introduce you to Wild Ink Publishing author Riley Kilmore. I know you are going to enjoy getting to learn about her and her books just as I did. I can relate to Riley in our writing routine, which you’ll read about below! Enjoy! Amy About the Author In addition to devoting 20 years…
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5 Reasons Why You Should Fictionalize Your Past Trauma
Let’s be real. No one gets through this life unscathed. Everyone experiences their share of trauma. You’ve probably said, “I should write a book,” more times than you can count. And memoir can be powerful. But fictionalizing your past may be a better option. My upcoming debut, Worth It (Wild Ink May of 2024 (available…
Amy Nielsen 