10 Non-Writing Things You Can Do To Improve Your Writing

It’s National Novel Writing Month. Do you know where your brain children are? For novelists this can either prove to be a thrilling time of year or a daunting season. Whether you’re tackling your first novel this month or working on your fifteenth, it’s good to be reminded that becoming a better writing doesn’t always have to do with what we put on the page.

If you take a holistic and comprehensive approach to the task of writing, the results may pleasantly surprise you.

With that, here are 10 non-writing ways to strengthen your craft—to bring out the brain children.

Take a Hike

I’ve said it once, I’ll say it a million times, fresh air does more than merely invigorate. Nature has an unparalleled ability to recharge us, to reintroduce us our glorious surroundings, thereby reacquainting us with some excellent material.

Eavesdrop

When you’re a writer you have permission. And I’m not just talking about visiting coffee shops. Sure, you’ll glean some good tidbits there, but I’ve picked up dialogue at soccer games, outdoor concerts, even at the grocery store.

Read, Read, Read

No-brainer, right? Of course, consume novels. Books in the genre you write. But also read marketing materials, magazine articles, advertisements, flash fiction, memoir, non-fiction . . . you name it, get your hands on it and soak it up with your eyes. Absorb it all.

“Read a thousand books, and your words will flow like a river.” Lisa See

Get Artsy

Paint. Knit. Garden. Find another way to get your juices flowing. There have been studies done that show the benefits of toying with new creative outlets. Brain activity increases. And who wouldn’t want more brain activity? Especially when it comes to brainstorming an ideal ending or adding a phenomenal character. So, go artsy. For novel’s sake.

Keep a Notebook Handy

I’ve crashed out of the shower in order to get my thoughts down on paper. I’ll never forget the advice a guest shared in one of my college writing classes (but I did forget his name). “Always keep a pen and paper nearby. You don’t want to risk losing precious material.” I carry a journal with me, along with the book I’m reading. A pen and paper are stationed on my bedside table. I haven’t figured out the whole transcribing in the shower thing yet. (This one isn’t writing-free, but it’s something that can be done besides actual work on the novel. Take notes about anything that grabs your attention in life—anything that strikes you.)

Become More Self-Aware

This’ll do more than improve your writing. It’s good life stuff. Learn how to say sorry after you screw up. Be honest about your imperfections. Laugh at yourself. Reflect. Take responsibility for your life. Let go of the unnecessary. Why does any of this matter? You’ll do your characters a favor. What you imbue into them will be an extension of what you’ve learned in your own life.

Research

I spend a lot of time on Google. And I Google some pretty strange things. I also talk to people, professionals and slackers. I study people. Everything from the gestures they make to how they speak to things they choose not to share. I turn life and all of my surroundings into research. It has a way of making life infinitely more interesting.

Connect with Other Readers

I’m talking book clubs, baby! Fellow readers are invaluable. It’s in these environments that I learn from audiences what works and what doesn’t, what attracts a reader and what turns them off. I’ve lived here in CA for less than six months and I’ve already started up a book club of bright, engaging women. I made it a priority, and I’m so grateful for the group coming together.

Ask Questions & Stay Curious

I’ve said this before, too (that’s what ten years of blogging does) stay curious, my friends! People are wonderful teachers. You won’t ever fully know what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes, but if you ask deep and thoughtful questions, you can have a better understanding. You could gain empathy and God knows, our world needs more of that + more active listeners. Not only is investing in others good for your novel, it’s good for the world.

Squelch Judgment

I’ll end on this note. So, you’ve grown more empathetic. Excellent. That’s only going to flesh out your characters more—give them permission to make big mistakes and to heal properly. One more step. Shut down the temptation to judge. How would this improve your writing? Characterization 101. Characters need your permission as their creator to fail. And fail in massive ways. They need to get hurt. They need to grow. They can’t grow if you are forcing them to be perfect from page one. Write honestly, but with a solid understanding that we all, characters and authors alike, desperately need to grow.

Good luck to all the novel writers out there. I’m rooting for you. Live a full life + get the words on the page.

*Be back on the 19th.

Books Are Better Shared

I felt absolutely spoiled attending a Books Are Better Shared event this past weekend. Not only did I glean from renowned authors, I also met a kindred spirit at the book event.

During his opening speech, James Mustich, author of 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die, shared that “a good book is the opposite of a selfie” in that books help us to better understand the world around us.

Casey Gerald and Lisa Brennan-Jobs discussed memoir writing on a morning “personal perspective” panel. Gerald explained his approach while detailing his friend’s story in his book. He felt it was imperative to consider capturing his story as a sacred text, to “use a scalpel, not a sledgehammer.” Brennan-Jobs said that she “needed fixed bones to hang her lyricism on.” It was thrilling to hear other authors explain why they do what they do. And how they go about it. I chatted with Brennan-Jobs at lunch about the complexity of writing memoir, in which she revealed how she didn’t really want to write a memoir, she was doing everything to avoid it.

The afternoon “social perspective” panel featured more acclaimed authors. Stephen Markley said that while writing his novel, Ohio, from four unique perspectives, he “wanted to imbue into each character all the humanity people give to you.” James Frey, author of A Million Little Pieces, and his latest, Katerina, stated that he wanted to write a book people could lose themselves in. I could relate one hundred percent when he told the audience he aimed to write books he wished other people would write, books that make him feel. Shobha Rao, author of Girls Burn Brighter, touched upon something that also resonated with me. She said, “As I’m writing, the only responsibility I feel is to myself. Once the book is public, Rao explained how there’s a shift and at that point the book now enters a public conversation.

I told a woman I saw in the hall (it was the restroom, actually) that my brain felt happy.

I go at this writing thing for hours every day. It’s a solitary task. To be around such esteemed and well-spoken authors who are also committed to going hard at the craft was a thrill to say the least. The combination of smartly prepared panel discussions, potential for author interactions, the appreciation and celebration of book clubs and book club reads, and finally meeting a new book friend made this event a complete win.

I’m going again next year and I even signed up to volunteer. Because talking books and being around people who enjoy discussing books has a way of invigorating me like little else can.

*Be back Oct. 29th

A Strong Start + A Theme Song

The After Glimpse has been out in the world for one week. And I have to say I’m loving the initial reactions I’m reading via Amazon & Goodreads reviews, texts, and Facebook messages. It’s thrilling to know my stories are stirring readers.

If you’re a member of a book club and your group would like to discuss The After Glimpse, please contact me. I’d love to be a part of your gathering. I’ll bring wine & cheese. Or my latest obsession, Kalamata olives.

Finally, if this book were to have a theme song I know the perfect one. It’s an oldie, but goodie. Have a listen, then if you haven’t already, buy my book and see why this song is such a great fit. 

*See you back here on November 6th. Be sure to enter the Goodreads giveaway for The After Glimpse starting November 1st!

Book Outings

In the midst of all that’s chaotic out there I’m thrilled to let you know my novel, The After Glimpse, releases in ONE week! Everything leading up to release day has kept me super busy. Here are a few of the many things I’ve been invested in…

The After Glimpse is now on Goodreads. Tell the world you want to read it by clicking that cool green Want to Read button.

While at soccer practice last week, I had the pure joy of Facetiming with an endearing group of women. They discussed my book, The Short & Sincere Life of Ellory James, and asked me thought-provoking questions related to the book. I was greatly encouraged by my interaction with this Florida book group.

In a few days I’m visiting my first Georgia book club! I can’t wait to see what the group thought of Ellory and Pete. Will let you know how it goes. If you’re a member of a book club interested in discussing any of my books, I’d love to know—and participate. Please reach out!

I’ve begun the initial stages of planning a local Book Release Party for The After Glimpse. Cannot wait to share more details about this in coming weeks.

Another women’s fiction manuscript has captivated my focus. I’m deep in the editing stages. Goal is to pitch this one soon.

Finally, if somehow your eyes skimmed over this before, The After Glimpse releases in ONE WEEK, on Monday, October 16^th. I seriously cannot wait for you to get your hands on this one. I’ve been told by more than one person (both have read all of my published works) that this one is their favorite.

In the Works

I wanted to give you some updates about what’s been going on with me lately. Often people will ask me if I’m currently writing something. Pretty much any time this is asked of me, the answer to this question will be yes. I am always working on something. As many of you know, crafting a novel is broken down into several stages. Plotting. Writing. Editing. Editing. Editing. And while I’m caught up writing novels, I also have a blast brainstorming other projects.

Here are some things in the works for me:

•          I’m excited to be visiting our local newcomer’s book club in November. I was thrilled when the representative for the newcomer’s group let me know they are planning to read my books as a way to help spread the word about my writing. My town has demonstrated such a wonderful show of support. P.S. I’d love to be a part of your book club! Contact me and I’ll work hard to make it happen.
•     Over the summer I fell into a bit of a start pattern. I started over five novels, waiting for one to grab hold of me and convince me to keep with it. Finally one did just that and I’m deep into the characters and tension of that plot. Looking forward to releasing this book. I’m shooting for late spring/early summer of 2017, but as happens in this industry, that could change. What I can share so far is that this book is women’s fiction and the characters have completely rooted into my heart.
•  I’ve been feeling a real fire lit under me to continue plotting a nonfiction idea that’s been percolating for years. Will keep you posted about this. It’s beyond exciting for me.
  
•  I’m also still working through details as I develop a new website. Release date TBD.
• Finally, I’m pursuing a few works on the traditional publishing front. I feel hopeful things will come to fruition, but the wait keeps me grounded.

That’s the gist of my writing-related projects. What has your focus lately?

Significant Price Drop ~ THE FLOWER GIRLS

Over the past two years I’ve had a blast visiting local book clubs to answer questions about THE FLOWER GIRLS. I loved the book signings I held at two fantastic coffee roasters and the library talk I gave. Readers have amazed me by capturing dozens of shots of my book with their favorite blossoming flowers.

I’m thrilled with the reception THE FLOWER GIRLS has received. For this reason, and many others, I’m significantly dropping the price for a limited time.

THE FLOWER GIRLS is only 99 cents right now.

Buy your Kindle copy today! Tell your family & friends.

*meet you back here May 16th

Book Clubs—Still Going Strong

Last week I visited with a group who’d read and discussed my book, The Flower Girls. I took so much away from our conversation. I loved how each member began to open up about their own sibling relationships. It was a complete blast for me to be in on that book club. I’ve been invited into the conversations and dynamics of twenty-six groups over the past two years and it simply never grows old.

I’m also still thoroughly enjoying my time with my own book clubs. I rarely miss. The conversations make me feel alive and the connections spur me on in life.

If it wasn’t obvious already, I’m a huge fan of book clubs. And I’m willing to bet I’ll be saying the same thing forty years from now.

Speaking of book clubs, the next three months would be the perfect time for your book club to choose my latest work, The Short & Sincere Life of Ellory James. It’s a shorter read with an emotional element worth talking about. Please let me know if you’d like me to partake in any way. I like to bring gifts, wine, extra books, and behind-the-scenes insight on the book being discussed. {I’ve Skyped with a handful, too, so I’m open to that as well.}

Let’s go clubbing!

Winners of the Key Book Clubs from Coast to Coast...

Congratulations to the Keller book club!

 

You won the Key Book Clubs from Coast to Coast Contest.

Out of twenty-three (that I knew about) groups who met to discuss The Disappearing Key, over the course of this past year, this is the winning group. Each member will receive an individual key-related gift from me.

Here’s a glimpse at the basket of goodies…

 

 As I’ve stated before, visiting book clubs in person and via Skype has been a true highlight of my publishing career. There’s just nothing like engaging in dialogue about characters that I brought to life. I appreciate every single group who has chosen one or both of my books to discuss.

 

And again, Congratulations to the winning crew!

What Is It about Book Clubs . . .

that I love so much?

I won’t be bashful. I’ll come right out and give you ten things that get me jazzed about book clubs.

1.       They’re breeding grounds for laughter.

2.       Book clubs provide mental stimulation. It’s like Lumosity for literature lovers (say that 10 times fast).

3.       I’m able to reflect upon a book once I’ve read it, exploring concepts and characters at a more felt level.

4.       I discuss topics and characters in ways I’d never have the opportunity to do in other circumstances.

5.       When I’m visiting a group that’s read one of my books, I’m always amazed what readers teach me about my characters and stories. It’s insanely rewarding to hear the takeaways.

6.       Book clubs conjure an appreciation for literature and books that have rocked my world in the past. There’s this magical invisible weave that strings from one mind-blowing book to the next.

7.       Book groups are wonderful settings to receive and sift through diverse opinions.

8.       They make me feel less alone, as women come together and open up in refreshingly honest conversations.

9.       They introduce me to new authors.

10.   Okay I’ll admit it, I’m a sucker for the food & wine, too.

 

If your book club is interested in reading THE DISAPPEARING KEY or THE FLOWER GIRLS, I’d love know. Please send me an email with the details. If you’re local, I’ll make the effort to visit in person. I’ve also Skyped and spoken on the phone with clubs before, too.

 

 

& Happy Book Birthday to THE DISAPPEARING KEY!

Ten Reasons Why I Am a Fan of Book Clubs

Earlier this week I was presented with thoughtful gifts from members of a book club I helped to create at a local coffee shop.  The group had such a positive experience they wanted to say thank you. Reflecting on this, I realized the incredible benefits of being involved in a book club. I can certainly speak to this as a member of three.

Needless to say, I’m a fan of book clubs.

And I’m about to tell you why.

Book clubs . . .

Encourage Reading

Several members of the book clubs I attend likely wouldn’t take the time to read were it not for a selected book and a scheduled meeting date. Book clubs offer a degree of accountability and a reason for carving out the time to read (not like I’d ever need a reason for that).

Incite The “Get Real” Factor

Not many environments lend themselves to the type of connectivity that can occur while comfortably seated in a living room, snacking on delicious cheeses, brain buzzing with thoughts about the chosen novel. Conversation slides into the vulnerable, the relatable, and the “real” when the tough questions come out to play. It’s a joy to watch this kind of exchange take off.

Reinstate the True Meaning of Social

You can do everything online these days. It’s refreshing and rejuvenating to meet face-to-face. Nothing like matching laughs with another or nodding profusely when you both agree on the same point. I’m also a firm believer that high-fives will never be uncool.

Allow Unlikely, But Strong Bonds to Develop

Initial conversations, through time, can blossom into rich friendships.

Stir Up Stimulating Conversations

“Mom, where are my cleats?” “Honey, why is the dog food in the toilet?” “Will you volunteer?” “The payment is due in less than a week.”

During most of the day we listen to an audio track of requests, needs, pleading, and demands. Book clubs have a way of tunneling into those long lost crevices in our minds that remind us on occasion we at one point were able to think clearly, we enjoyed presenting a sound, coherent thought that might actually make sense to someone.

Know what’s really cool?

When someone flings a coherent thought back at us and this little thing called conversation ignites.

Grant More Understanding

I have my own personal test groups. In my book clubs I get to constantly be privy to what readers feel works and doesn’t work in books. As an author I take mental notes. I also delight in hearing what kinds of characters gel or repel.

Offer a Glimpse of What’s Been Done

Because I’m reading so much I’m able to see what’s out there. What’s been done before. What’s considered new and innovative. This is incredibly helpful when it comes time for me to plot my novels.

Are Ideal for Sharing Ideas

Not only have I benefited from the collective wisdom present at book clubs, I’ve seen other women launch business ideas by bouncing them off group members. Book clubs are inherent focus groups. And more times than not, it’s not necessary to spill details. Facial expressions and questions serve as excellent indicators whether or not you’re on the right track.

Spark Creativity

Decorative ideas, appetizers served, specific questions asked. Book club night is the exact time to let your imagination run wild. Authors are incorporating more and more “Enhance Your Book Club” sections in their books (take note, I’ve done this with both of mine) because we know how fun it is to play.

Eat, Drink, & Be Merry

I’ve learned stellar wine choices, intriguing foods to pair up, and the name of a cheese I’m now obsessed with (Toscano) thanks to my book clubs. Topping off the enriching conversations, the bonds that quickly form is the thrill of sampling new foods & drink. Now that’s what I call an evening out.

Brain stimulated. Happy belly. Life changed.

Cheers to book clubs everywhere!

 

*Please contact me if your book club would like to discuss my soon to be released book, THE FLOWER GIRLS. I’d love to be a part of the event. (Excited to announce CA is on the board for my Key Book Clubs from Coast to Coast Contest)

**Here’s my board “BookClub Brainwave” on Pinterest

***Thrilled to be featured at Julie’s place today sharing about motherhood & writing!

 

 

 

Book Club Fun, Giveaways, and More

I’ve been having a blast visiting with local book clubs discussing my debut novella, The Disappearing Key.

Please contact me if you’re interested in having me come to your book club (I'm also up for Skyping).

Diane Estrella’s 2013 Debut Author Giveaway Hop ends TOMORROW. 

Enter to win a free copy of my book!

Goodreads Disappearing Days Giveaway for the Holidays ends in five days. 

Chance to win one of five autographed copies of my book.

Grateful to guest post at Jenny Hale’s yesterday. 

If you missed it, I answer more insider questions about my book and what’s on my bucket list.

*Also, if you've read The Disappearing Key & you enjoyed it, I'd love for you to post a short review on Amazon or Goodreads. Thanks for helping me spread the word!

Characters Review THE DISAPPEARING KEY

The reviews are coming in, people! Thanks so much for reading and taking the time to provide feedback about my novella.

I’ve noticed a few similarities keep cropping up in the reviews. I’ve divided them into three different categories and pulled direct quotes from my fantabulous reviewers.

Can’t put it down

“I could not stop reading this book from the first sentence.”

“It was a riveting page-turner I couldn't put down!”

“While reading The Disappearing Key, I experienced something very rare for me...I actually did not want to put it down and was glued to the book until I finished!”

Great book club selection

“As soon as I finished this one, I wanted to talk about it. Which is why I'm excited that my book club will be reading it!”

“If you are tired of the same old, same old stories and want something fresh, original, and masterfully crafted, this should be your pick.”

“Can't wait to tell my book clubs about it!”

“If you love stories chock-full of intrigue and fodder for your next book-club conversation, I can't recommend this one enough!”

“I think this is a great choice for a book club. There are so many aspects to discuss.” 

Connecting with the characters

“I love to really be able to ‘feel’ the characters with their struggles and growth.” 

“The plot is unique and amazing, the characters are real and 3-dimensional, and the writing is superb.”

“The interesting characters reveal themselves throughout this absorbingly well written, science-meets-mystery tale.”

“I always judge a book by evaluating if I want to read more about the characters and in this case, the answer is an overwhelming ‘Yes’!” 

“Each of the characters was painted with realism, drawing me in and making me want to see them find what they desired.” 

*

For fun, today I thought I’d take a closer look at the three main characters in THE DISAPPEARING KEY by asking them what they thought of the novella…

Gabrielle

It’s always challenging for me to be introspective, to take a hard, honest look at myself. This book made me do exactly that. I know many women (moms in particular) will relate with me, however, I’m still hard on myself. I’m just so thankful I grew by the end of it.

Oriana

Even though I knew exactly how it would play out, I still found myself engrossed in the story. I wanted to see what would happen between me and Topher…still kind of wondering about that. Oh, and I wish every single one of you could tell me your perspective on the key and what went down at the very end…have a feeling I’d love hearing all your thoughts!

Viola

I found myself amused while reading some scenes and my heart broke while reading others. So much of the rawness of life came through in this work. The author didn’t hold back, and though at times I was splayed out on the page vulnerable as a newborn, I wouldn’t have written it any differently. My favorite scene was with my brother in the cottage…for many reasons, oh, so many reasons.

*

Grateful for every single review!

Do you read reviews on Amazon or Goodreads before buying a book?

*Later this week I’ll be announcing some exciting news regarding my novella!

**I also noticed a theme in the reviews about readers looking forward to my next work. I’m working hard to make that happen.

***Don’t forget to notify me if your book club is interested in being signed up for my Key Book Clubs from Coast to Coast Contest.