Kidlitchat Transcript – December 8 (part 1)
7:59 pm kidlitchat: TOPIC: Many of us are in revision mode this month. How do you approach revisions? Any tips from the pros? #kidlitchat
8:00 pm gregpincus: TOPIC: Many of us are in revision mode this month. How do you approach revisions? Any tips from the pros? #kidlitchat
8:00 pm jimhill: #kidlitchat, I miss you. The semester is over in two weeks. No Tuesday night classes allowed in the future.
8:01 pm dawnmetcalf: ROFL! With a curse & a prayer & a very sharp stick. #kidlitchat
8:01 pm RebeccAgent: Hi all. Might be a bit quiet with this topic, but I look forward to hearing what you have to say. #kidlitchat
8:01 pm bonnieadamson: TOPIC: Many of us are in revision mode this month. How do you approach revisions? Any tips from the pros? #kidlitchat
8:01 pm ChristineTB: Revision – with dread and trepidation. Otherwise I read for global issues first. #kidlitchat
8:02 pm elanaroth: I’m here too. Might also be a quiet, but happy to answer any questions. #kidlitchat
8:02 pm sharifwrites: @gregpincus I’m sensitive about plot. I approach that first to see if the storyline flows properly. #kidlitchat
8:02 pm SarahRettger: Am in the midst of revisions (& procrastinating right now!) so will be watching for tips from #kidlitchat tonight.
8:02 pm inkyelbows: #kidlitchat on NOW. TOPIC: How do you approach revisions? Any tips from the pros?
8:02 pm aecbks: Have been helping a number of authors with revisions this month. As many different approaches as stories, writers. #kidlitchat
8:03 pm KevinBloomfield: New to the book world but in toys we expect revisions on all projects – make sure they are in your schedule! #kidlitchat
8:03 pm malindalo: How do I approach revisions? One day at a time. 
#kidlitchat
8:03 pm EgmontGal: Ditto what @elanaroth and @rebeccAgent said. #kidlitchat
8:03 pm tiffanytrent: With tongs and a bullwhip. #kidlitchat
8:03 pm bonnieadamson: @RebeccAgent How do you want your clients to approach revisions? #kidlitchat
8:03 pm KOrtizzle: Hello…I’m here…will prob just observe… #kidlitchat
8:03 pm dawnmetcalf: I’m with @SarahRettger. (Did not realize I’d be guilt-tripped first thing at #kidlitchat. Should be working on edits /right now!/)
8:03 pm KellyDHouse: Good topic. Hello, everyone! #kidlitchat
8:03 pm EgmontUSA: Me too. Here, and happy to answer, but lurking for now. #kidlitchat
8:04 pm mgbuehrlen: I’ve been in the revision stage for a long time. I try to give myself goals, but it’s hard to stick to them. #kidlitchat
8:04 pm jennymckmoss: Depend if editorial or on my own #kidlitchat
8:04 pm MardouLedger: @BonnieAdamson I posted a great revision tip from @halseanderson’s blog that I will be using. http://bit.ly/6TY6Ht #kidlitchat
8:04 pm gregpincus: @sharifwrites So you do a plot-first pass? For me, I like to break things down – plot, character, language – then combine #kidlitchat
8:04 pm thebookbarr: Jumping into #kidlitchat – hello to everyone! What’s the topic tonight?
8:04 pm crissachappell: @tiffanytrent Oh yeah. Kill off the weak stuff. Watch the word count drop. #kidlitchat
8:05 pm impossiblecat: @inkyelbows I approach them softly, but carry a big stick. #kidlitchat
8:05 pm ChristineTB: Hmm. I get down the bones first, then go back and massage. Sometimes the protagonist has better ideas and goals than I did. #kidlitchat
8:05 pm mgbuehrlen: Me too! I hit a roadblock, tho. @dawnmetcalf @SarahRettger. Should be working on edits right now! #kidlitchat
8:05 pm dawnmetcalf: Currently going through ms and synopsizing all plot points by hand. Makes it easy to see what drags, repeats or needs to be cut. #kidlitchat
8:05 pm Buffyandrews: I actually love revising. Am I weird? #kidlitchat
8:05 pm bonnieadamson: Well, I’ll jump in: I start by reading the entire thing out loud, start to finish. (Makes for a sore throat.) #kidlitchat
8:05 pm lioncaller: Find revisions hard as need a big-picture view, and only have minutes or hrs in my day. Easier to draft in pieces. #kidlitchat
8:05 pm bonnieadamson: @thebookbarr TOPIC: Many of us are in revision mode this month. How do you approach revisions? Any tips from the pros? #kidlitchat
8:06 pm rj_anderson: When revising, I work from a printed copy of the ms and type the whole thing in again from scratch, making changes as I go. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm KevinBloomfield: Always approach the revision from the point of view of the person giving the revision. What would the revision person do? WWRD? #kidlitchat
8:06 pm rj_anderson: @Buffyandrews If you’re weird then so am I! I love revising, too. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm debbieohi: In final revision stages, I read everything out loud. It’s a great way of checking sentence flow. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm carolgrannick: So many different methods (not talking emotions about revision, here); Me: find a good match for me at given moment, and for ms. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm tiffanytrent: I always like breaking down the word re- vision. Seeing it new. Try to go in w/completely new eyes/new thoughts. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm KellyDHouse: @bonnieadamson I do the same thing. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm rachelarrr: @bonnieadamson I read it out loud as well. It’s tiring, but definitely worth it and so helpful. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm sharifwrites: @gregpincus I feel strong about my character and language, but I worry about plot. I write a detailed outline before I write. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm dawnmetcalf: @tiffanytrent See? I knew I liked you… #kidlitchat
8:06 pm mgbuehrlen: RT @Buffyandrews: I actually love revising. Am I weird? >> No, I do too! Love when it just keeps getting better. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm kellybarnhill: Revision? Slash and burn, baby. I cover drafts with notes and recompose from scratch. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm Buffyandrews: Definitely read my work out loud. I love writing dialogue and definitely need to “feel it.’ Hard not to revise as I go. #kidlitchat
8:06 pm ChristineTB: RT @Buffyandrews: I actually love revising. Am I weird? ( Yes. I’ll email mine to you ) #kidlitchat
8:07 pm KellyDHouse: Does anyone here start with a blank page? #kidlitchat
8:07 pm debbieohi: @bonnieadamson Hey, just saw your post about readalouds as I posted mine. 
#kidlitchat
8:07 pm indieauthor: RT @inkyelbows: #kidlitchat on NOW. TOPIC: How do you approach revisions? Any tips from the pros?
8:07 pm kellybarnhill: @bonnieadamson Hey, I do that too! It drives my family nuts. #kidlitchat
8:07 pm amy7a: depend heavily on critique group! #kidlitchat
8:07 pm jeanie_w: I like to read the ms out loud as I revise. #kidlitchat
8:07 pm Buffyandrews: @rj_anderson Wow. Type the entire thing over. #kidlitchat
8:07 pm EKokie: Hi all. What a topical topic-I’m doing revisions now… not sure how long I can chat tonight, but will def look at transcript #kidlitchat
8:07 pm sharifwrites: @Buffyandrews I’m reading my WIP out loud now. It really helps. #kidlitchat
8:07 pm ChristineTB: @debbieohi Did you know Macs can read mss out loud? Useful for finding things my eyes skip over. #kidlitchat
8:07 pm carolgrannick: @KellyDHouse Yes, many times. #kidlitchat
8:07 pm debbieohi: @rj_anderson I’ll join the “weird” club. I enjoy revising/editing far more than writing the first draft. #kidlitchat
8:07 pm bonnieadamson: RT @KellyDHouse: Does anyone here start with a blank page? AAck! No–maybe for pbs . . . #kidlitchat
8:07 pm dawnmetcalf: RT @debbieohi In final revision stages, I read everything out loud. It’s a great way of checking sentence flow. #kidlitchat << Agreed!
8:07 pm jennymckmoss: I’ll make a chap by chap chart, mapping plot pts, char, theme, etc. In chart form, easier for me to step back from ms & c flaws #kidlitchat
8:07 pm rj_anderson: Before revising, I read my ed letter and/or critiques over and over until I have the necessary changes memorized. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm impossiblecat: Same here! RT @kellybarnhill Revision? Slash and burn, baby. I cover drafts with notes and recompose from scratch. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm AudryT: #kidlitchat on NOW. TOPIC: How do you approach revisions?
8:08 pm carolgrannick: RT @jeanie_w: I like to read the ms out loud as I revise. Richard Peck agrees this is essential. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm KevinBloomfield: Step away from the project – look at it with the customers eyes.. It’s hard to seperate yourself, but it’s needed. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm debbieohi: @ChristineTB I use voice-activated software while writing sometimes — that helps, too. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm malindalo: I think that revising is the heart of writing. It’s where you really shape a book. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm EgmontGal: How many people have been asked by their editors to put in more bare- chested men? (Ignore me, I’m punchy. Sorry.) #kidlitchat
8:08 pm AudryT: When I’m editing, I read out loud b/c you catch everything that way, including tacky dialogue. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm dawnmetcalf: @Buffyandrews I agree. Tough not to edit as you go, esp. backing up and marching forward. #kidlitchat
8:08 pm rj_anderson: I don’t read aloud, but only because I “hear” every sentence in my head as I’m writing/revising. Rhythm is v. important to me. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm EKokie: In early stages I look at crit partners’ notes, marinate, revise in chunks. Later, read aloud & markup. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm Buffyandrews: @sharifwrites Def. make all my reporters read their stories out loud. makes a huge difference. Carry that through to fiction. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm QueenbeeTF: 1st I do is give MS to a friend to read.They let me know if of plot holes,if they want something expanded upon or needs change #kidlitchat
8:09 pm ChristineTB: @debbieohi Really? Name of software? (I’m the ultimate nerd.) #kidlitchat
8:09 pm impossiblecat: @debbieohi @rj_anderson Me too. You’re working with something that exists rather than a blank page. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm crissachappell: @malindalo yes. writing is rewriting. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm debbieohi: I find it’s easier for me to revise/edit if I print out the mss first, rather than read on screen. Anyone else like that? #kidlitchat
8:09 pm thebookbarr: Revising is one of my favorite things. Strange, no? My favorite method: reading out loud. Seems to be common. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm JoKnowles: @jennymckmoss i do something similar with a storyboard #kidlitchat
8:09 pm KellyDHouse: RT @malindalo: I think that revising is the heart of writing. Its where you really shape a book. <—I totally agree. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm gregpincus: I think we should call December NaNoReMo – national novel revising month. Maybe next year! #kidlitchat
8:09 pm DDHearn: I have some idea of the story, but I usually just start writing. Of course I’ve only written PBs, so that’s different. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm carolgrannick: RT @malindalo: I think that revising is the heart of writing. Its where you really shape a book. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm dawnmetcalf: I only revise after I have put it away for a while to think about what it’s done (and to forget a bit). About 4 weeks. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm tiffanytrent: I think a problem w/revision is that we let a draft solidify the story too much in our minds. It must be strong, but malleable. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm EgmontGal: @carolgrannick Having someone ELSE read it aloud can really help you hear weak spots.May Massee used to read authors ms to them #kidlitchat
8:09 pm jennymckmoss: @rj_anderson Me too RJ #kidlitchat
8:09 pm bonnieadamson: So, we have lots of read-alouders. Who waits until it’s done to outline? <me> #kidlitchat
8:09 pm ChristineTB: @EgmontGal No bare chested men, but I’ll work on writing that slutty girl mss you mentioned once. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm debbieohi: @ChristineTB I’m on a Mac and use MacSpeech. #kidlitchat
8:09 pm rj_anderson: @EgmontGal Well, there’s a first time for everything… unless you mean SMeyer’s editor did? #kidlitchat
8:10 pm lioncaller: @egmontgal LOL #kidlitchat
8:10 pm bonnieadamson: RT @gregpincus: I think we should call December NaNoReMo – national novel revising month. Maybe next year! #kidlitchat
8:10 pm andreacremer: Hooray, and hello all #kidlitchat
8:10 pm tiffanytrent: @crissachappell I have been doing that for AGES. 
#kidlitchat
8:10 pm mgbuehrlen: I love revisions b/c the book you dreamed about finally starts to appear as you chip away all the excess. #kidlitchat
8:10 pm carolgrannick: @debbieohi Oh, gosh, yes – cannot revise on screen! Ecologically upsetting, but… #kidlitchat
8:10 pm jeanie_w: I need to let the ms sit for a few weeks between revision passes. #kidlitchat
8:10 pm EKokie: In final polishing I have a search&revise list for common writing issues/overused words/that/this/etc. #kidlitchat
8:10 pm journalwriter7: @debbieohi I definitely prefer to have a hard copy. It’s easier for me to spot errors that way. #kidlitchat
8:10 pm kimberlyrpauley: I approach revisions with chocolate. (Only kind of kidding–I actually like revisions okay) #kidlitchat
8:10 pm KellyDHouse: @debbieohi Have to revise first with a pen on paper, then I tackle the keyboard. #kidlitchat
8:10 pm ChristineTB: @debbieohi Thanks. Make a note of that. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm dawnmetcalf: @impossiblecat @debbieohi @rj_anderson That doesn’t make it *harder* for you? I find the blank page freer than moving old stuff. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm jeanie_w: @bonnieadamson Not me. I outline ahead of time. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm AudryT: Not outlining makes it too likely that I will wander through the woods and get lost. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm sharifwrites: @Buffyandrews I even read the dialogue with intonation (alone, of course). #kidlitchat
8:11 pm jennymckmoss: @JoKnowles It helps me not get overwhelmed & tear my hair out #kidlitchat
8:11 pm ChristineTB: Nice! RT @mgbuehrlen: I love revisions b/c the book you dreamed about finally starts to appear as you chip away all the excess. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm Buffyandrews: And one of the fun things about revising is tightening. I love that challenge. To keep it tight and moving forward. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm dutchhillgirl: RT @debbieohi: I find it’s easier for me to revise/edit if I print out the mss first, rather than read on screen. #kidlitchat <– Yep!
8:11 pm dawnmetcalf: @mgbuehrlen …sounds like dieting. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm carolgrannick: @EgmontGal Yes, my crit group always reads one another’s mss. out loud. So helpful! #kidlitchat
8:11 pm thebookbarr: I revise as I write, then do one big revision at the end. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm MardouLedger: I do a v loose outline as I write (so that I don’t have to sit with blank page) but the real one is at the end. Or, like you. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm andreacremer: I revise both on screen and by reading hard copy #kidlitchat
8:11 pm JoKnowles: @jennymckmoss definitely. with a storyboard, I feel like I can really SEE the whole book. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm KevinBloomfield: @mgbuehrlen always difficult to start cutting after so much work goes in, but I enjoy this part as well. #kidlitchat
8:11 pm crissachappell: @journalwriter7 me too. I print everything out and throw it on the floor… #kidlitchat
8:12 pm DDHearn: @debbieohi I always print out the manuscript. Of course my first draft is in long hand (PB), but then I type it and print it. #kidlitchat
8:12 pm ChristineTB: Finishing novel in two voices. Have to have hard copy too. Lay them out on the floor to check the sequencing. #kidlitchat
8:12 pm rachelarrr: @journalwriter7 Agreed, and I like scribbling my notes all over the paper. Helps when rearranging large sections. #kidlitchat
8:12 pm debbieohi: @bonnieadamson I’ve discovered that outlining before I start writing saves me a lot of time (personal pref). #kidlitchat
8:12 pm sharifwrites: @EKokie I love the last cycles, where I’ve cut out most of the repetition. #kidlitchat
8:12 pm lioncaller: @livescribe puts handwriting & digital conversion side-by-side on screen for very careful consideration & editing. Helps. #kidlitchat
8:12 pm mgbuehrlen: @dawnmetcalf No way! Revisions are actually fun! #kidlitchat
8:12 pm fullofstars: I have to let it set for a few weeks first. Then I read aloud, and foist on my reader friends. Then it’s to the revision cave! #kidlitchat
8:12 pm jennymckmoss: @carolgrannick My old critique group did that – it *was* helpful #kidlitchat
8:12 pm debbieohi: @carolgrannick I love my critique group, too! #kidlitchat
8:12 pm Buffyandrews: @andreacremer Yes. Sometimes I see things on hard copy i didn’t catch on the screen. #kidlitchat
8:12 pm dawnmetcalf: @sharifwrites @Buffyandrews Def. have to have an empty house! Reading aloud is a solo performance. ((shudder)) #kidlitchat
8:12 pm jennymckmoss: @JoKnowles Yes! #kidlitchat
8:13 pm HeatherMcCorkle: @Buffyandrews You’re not alone! I love revising too. Must try @KimberlyRPauley’s idea of including chocolate! #kidlitchat
8:13 pm carolgrannick: @debbieohi First novel, couldn’t outline (in a drawer right now). This one, absolutely. #kidlitchat
8:13 pm mgbuehrlen: @KevinBloomfield Very difficult. I have to cut 50k still from mine. O_o #kidlitchat
8:13 pm hetihrusli: RT @malindalo: I think that revising is the heart of writing. It’s where you really shape a book. #kidlitchat
8:13 pm debbieohi: @DDHearn Wow, you write ur 1st draft in longhand? I’m so spoiled by typing that I think my hand would cramp up after a few wds! #kidlitchat
8:13 pm journalwriter7: @rachelarrr I haven’t gotten to the revision part yet. Just finished first draft. #kidlitchat Good night!
8:13 pm KellyDHouse: I LOVE the delete key, esp. with “track changes” when you can get the nice red line though your words. Is that weird? #kidlitchat
8:13 pm ChristineTB: I take the Tess Gerritsen approach and write scenes out of order to explore the character. I outline afterwards. Kinda backwards #kidlitchat
8:13 pm bonnieadamson: @debbieohi I just don’t know where I’m going until I get there–then can go back and plant guideposts. #kidlitchat
8:13 pm DDHearn: @debbieohi Does MacSpeach sound like a real person or a robot speaking? I couldn’t stand a robot voice reading the story. #kidlitchat
8:13 pm dawnmetcalf: @mgbuehrlen Fie! Fie! Back blasphemer! #kidlitchat
8:13 pm rj_anderson: I revise from beginning to end, figuring out changes as I go. I make notes on the ms before I start, but don’t outline/chart. #kidlitchat
8:13 pm gregpincus: Sadly, I have to dash off. #kidlitchat I’m looking forward to this transcript. I love revision tips!
8:13 pm sharifwrites: @dawnmetcalf I become startled if someone walks in or the phone rings. #kidlitchat
8:13 pm QueenbeeTF: being a teacher, I love my red pen so I also print out the MS & mark it all up with corrections, ideas and arrows! #kidlitchat
8:13 pm journalwriter7: @crissachappell I prefer my desk. #kidlitchat
8:13 pm KatGirl_Studio: oh darn I’m late what was the topic? #kidlitchat
8:14 pm debbieohi: RT @malindalo: I think that revising is the heart of writing. Its where you really shape a book. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm tiffanytrent: Have just outlined (of my own free will) for the first time. Felt like I was killing the novel, but we shall see. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm dawnmetcalf: @Buffyandrews @andreacremer Agree hard copy is a must. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm longstockingz: THE LONGSTOCKINGS WILL CRITIQUE 12 MANUSCRIPTS THIS YEAR! enter now for January! details here: http://tinyurl.com/yjldlk3 #kidlitchat
8:14 pm ChristineTB: @mgbuehrlen Ouch. S. King says we write first draft for us, second for reader. But what if “I’m” the reader? #kidlitchat
8:14 pm jemifraser: Flying into #kidlitchat for a bit – topic is revision styles?
8:14 pm melodychamlee: @inkyelbows #kidlitchat I’ve been working with beat sheets to document what has to stay and what can change in revisions. Seems the only way
8:14 pm carolgrannick: I like this idea: RT @ChristineTB: I take the Tess Gerritsen approach and write scenes out of order to explore the character. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm dutchhillgirl: @DDHearn I thought I was the only one still writing my first drafts long hand. I do exactly the same thing. Write, type, print. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm Buffyandrews: And how about the little pieces that you pull together during the revision stage. I love those moments. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm mgbuehrlen: I don’t do empty pages during revisions. I look at what I have and keep sculpting. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm laurielyoung: Hi all, I almost forgot tonight! I will scroll down to see the topic, looks like something about revisions . . . #kidlitchat
8:14 pm debbieohi: RT @mgbuehrlen: I love revisions b/c the book you dreamed about finally starts to appear as you chip away all the excess. #kidlitchat
8:14 pm KevinBloomfield: never start revisions unless your bottle of wine is at least half empty! #kidlitchat
8:14 pm bonnieadamson: @KatGirl_Studio TOPIC: Many of us are in revision mode this month. How do you approach revisions? Any tips from the pros? #kidlitchat
8:14 pm KellyDHouse: @ChristineTB I’ve foudn myself doing the same thing recently. Helps when I hit a roadblock to have the freedome to jump ahead. #kidlitchat
8:15 pm EKokie: @dawnmetcalf I like reading aloud to trusted listener (I learn much from the process & her reaction). Also having it read to me #kidlitchat
8:15 pm RebeccAgent: from the agent’s perspective-I should say, that I can tell when a revision is rushed… #kidlitchat
8:15 pm rj_anderson: I find that typing the whole ms in from scratch lends itself to bold, major changes — re-visioning, not just tweaking. #kidlitchat
8:15 pm gregpincus: Oh, in a carryover from last #kidlitchat, I have a two part Google Alert tutorial up: http://www.thehappyaccident.net
8:15 pm DDHearn: When writing do any of you practice talking like a character, to get the uniqu speech patterns in your minds? #kidlitchat
8:15 pm dawnmetcalf: @sharifwrites *nods emphatically* #kidlitchat
8:15 pm PattyJMurphy: Hi, Everybody…Sorry I am late…outside enjoying the SNOW. Love revising. Seriously I do:) #kidlitchat
8:15 pm bonnieadamson: RT @debbieohi: RT @malindalo: I think that revising is the heart of writing. Its where you really shape a book. #kidlitchat Yes!
8:15 pm mgbuehrlen: @ChristineTB If you’re the reader, then who would you have to revise for? #kidlitchat
8:15 pm RebeccAgent: …done in hopes of appeasing me/answering my ?s instead of making the work stronger/more whole. #kidlitchat
8:15 pm debbieohi: RT @rj_anderson: I revise beg. to end, figuring out changes as I go. Make notes on mss before I start, but don’t outline/chart. #kidlitchat
8:15 pm MardouLedger: What do people mean by beat sheets? #kidlitchat
8:15 pm sharifwrites: @Buffyandrews I like to add key pieces that were missing, like dialogue, foreshadowing, and all that good stuff. #kidlitchat
8:15 pm KevinBloomfield: I usualy edit digitaly – use lot’s of bolding and multiple colors. RED is bad.. needs to change! #kidlitchat
8:15 pm PattyJMurphy: RT @RebeccAgent: from the agents perspective-I should say, that I can tell when a revision is rushed… <–What are the signs? #kidlitchat
8:15 pm laurielyoung: Sounds good to me! RT @KevinBloomfield: never start revisions unless your bottle of wine is at least half empty! #kidlitchat
8:16 pm dawnmetcalf: @melodychamlee @inkyelbows “Beat sheets”? #kidlitchat
8:16 pm AudryT: This novel, I used 1st draft as “brainstorm” then sat down w/2nd writer & hammered out a feasible outline. Worked well. #kidlitchat
8:16 pm nkrell: I’ve found Donald Maass has some great advice on revising as well. The newest one is The Fire in Fiction. #kidlitchat
8:16 pm andreacremer: RT @debbieohi: RT @malindalo: I think that revising is the heart of writing. Its where you really shape a book. #kidlitchat
8:16 pm MardouLedger: Also, how much revision do you all do before letting anyone read a draft? #kidlitchat
8:16 pm longstockingz: and check out our GORGEOUS new site! www.thelongstockings.com we’d love to hear what you think! #kidlitchat
8:16 pm andreacremer: Floor throwing all the way RT @crissachappell: @journalwriter7 me too. I print everything out and throw it on the floor… #kidlitchat
8:19 pm dawnmetcalf: @andreacremer @crissachappell @journalwriter7 Aside from beating kids to the inevitable, what does throwing ms on the floor do? #kidlitchat
- mgbuehrlen: Today I covered my desk with post-its — had to figure out a more believable timeline. Just part of the process. #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: A lot of you guys have been critiquers, right? Have u seen someone miss pt of what you wanted to say and glom on to small thing? #kidlitchat
- PattyJMurphy: RT @mgbuehrlen: @dawnmetcalf But why? <–LOL, MG! hi, there:) *waving from snowy Chicago* #kidlitchat
- DDHearn: @dutchhillgirl Do you write PBs or novels? I want to rewrite my novel, and plan to try long hand first, since I’m familiar. #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: @EgmontGal @MelissadelaCruz So what’s all this about glistening, bare-chested men?!?? #kidlitchat
- KatGirl_Studio: I write things down quickly when i have and idea and then go back and and fix the spelling and punctuation. #kidlitchat
- tiffanytrent: @andreacremer @rj_anderson Nevertheless, I’ve had many students who confuse the two. Heck, I did, too, for a while. #kidlitchat
- paulgreci: @rj_anderson Yes more than tweaks. You have to mess up a manuscript to make it better #kidlitchat
- KatGirl_Studio: That’s the only revision i have done so far. #kidlitchat
- MelissadelaCruz: @rj_anderson Me too I just keep revising till they take it away. #kidlitchat
- melodychamlee: #kidlitchat Discovered on a non-kid project: starting with the screenplay and working backwards gives you the book structure + a screenplay.
- KevinBloomfield: #kidlitchat Evr try reading to the true customer=kids? Whenever I question my work I show the most honest&brutal people in the world – KIDS!
- dawnmetcalf: @mgbuehrlen Because we like you! M-O-U-S-Eeeeee! #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: A lot of revision for me is deep breaths and re-envisioning what needs to happen with the manuscript #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: It rarely happens with contracted works, but sometimes in a critique session I think they aren’t listening at all.What can I do? #kidlitchat
- tiffanytrent: @AudryT Guess that’s why some folks love Scrivener, eh? (I don’t have Mac anymore, unfortunately). #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: @rj_anderson You say you revise a lot while you write. How quickly do you write? #kidlitchat
- rj_anderson: I’m looking fwd to using Scrivener on my next ms — great for seeing the ms at a glance. Used to keeping it in my head. #kidlitchat
- cheriwilliams: For me, first part of revision is to print in book form and read like a reader… look at the big picture. #KidLitChat
- HeatherMcCorkle: #kidlitchat I never used to believe in outlines til I was forced to do one at a retreat & it made me see everything wrong in my story!
- EgmontGal: @debbieohi @egmontUSA and I and our managing ed went to New Moon last night. We can’t get off the topic. #kidlitchat
- jemifraser: My 1st revision round is for plot holes, forgotten clues, flow. 2nd round for tightening. Then the find tool for overused words #kidlitchat
- hannahmosk: @EgmontGal Lead with the most important points. Once they hear something they don’t like, they shut down to the rest. #kidlitchat
- rj_anderson: @tiffanytrent I confused tweaking and revising for a long time myself. That’s why I’m now an evangelist for re-visioning! #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: @dawnmetcalf I’m a sprawler as I read. I have to see large sections of the work at a time, hence floor throwing #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: @andreacremer @rj_anderson @tiffanytrent Drat. I can’t *stop* tweaking as I go. Pointless when you have to cut 20K in the end. #kidlitchat
- tiffanytrent: @EgmontGal Yes! I’ve seen someone miss the point so far as to make me wonder if we spoke different languages. #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: @DDHearn I found my critique group through the SCBWI. Also just joined another crit group as well. #kidlitchat
- TaraGebhardt: Long Hand. That would do me in. #kidlitchat
- KevinBloomfield: #kidlitchat Thanks all! Have to run. Have a good night!
- bonnieadamson: RT @EgmontGal: Have u seen someone miss pt glom on to small thing?<– yes, but fact they missed pt is enlightening, too. #kidlitchat
- ChristineTB: I’m careful w/critique groups. Editor had me test one with a mss that was on press. Critiquers said not ready. Sold 60K copies #kidlitchat
- CNC999: @melodychamlee Cool idea. All of my best scenes play like a movie in my head. #kidlitchat
- Buffyandrews: @EgmontGal Maybe ask the person to repeat what you said to make sure they get it. #kidlitchat
- KateMessner: I don’t stop to revise while drafting. I keep list of “known issues” in notebook by computer.That’s my 1st revision to-do list. #kidlitchat
- cheriwilliams: And to have fresh eyed critiquers read all the way through. #KidLitChat
- KellyDHouse: Can someone explain Scrivener – is it worth it? #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: @EgmontGal I want to go see New Moon! The topic came up at the last #torkidlit tweetup. VERY entertaining discussion. #kidlitchat
- dutchhillgirl: @DDHearn I write novels and short stories. My muse works better with pen and paper. Then I revise as I type. #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: @AudryT But some editors and some writers have trouble letting go. I still regret a few things I wish I’d done 1 more round with #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: Heard great things about Scrivener. Haven’t tried it, tho’. #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: @dawnmetcalf I have to draft the full ms before I can revise anything. If I revised along the way I would never finish. #kidlitchat
- DDHearn: RT @MardouLedger: What do people mean by beat sheets? #kidlitchat
- rj_anderson: @debbieohi If all goes well, I can write 1st draft of a 3500-4500 word chapter in 7-10 days. But it’s complete & v. polished. #kidlitchat
- tiffanytrent: @rj_anderson Ha! My favorite term! And a movement I can also get behind. (Am doing it as we speak…) #kidlitchat
- EKokie: @DDHearn Good crit group is a gift. A non-effective/bad one can be very bad. Have some “trying you on” period to make sure fit. #kidlitchat
- KateMessner: @cheriwilliams I use my Kindle for 1st read-through of a draft to make it feel like a book & give me fresh eyes. #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: @Buffyandrews that’s a brilliant idea! Have them repeat it back! Soooo smart. twice this year someone really, really missed it. #kidlitchat
- MardouLedger: @QueenbeeTF Wow! Your first drafts must be a LOT better than mine. LOL #kidlitchat
- michailv: We revise while we write. Prevents issues from snowballing. There’s still a major rewrite/revise at the end, too, of course. #kidlitchat
- ChristineTB: @KellyDHouse Yes – well worth it. It allows me to keep research notes, rearrange chapters, generates outline and 3×5 cards. #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: Me too RT @KateMessner: I dont stop to revise while drafting. I keep list of “known issues” in notebook by computer #kidlitchat
- jennymckmoss: this conversation is making me want to revise something #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: RT @rj_anderson If all goes well, I can write 1st draft of a 3500-4500 word chpt in 7-10 days. But its complete & v. polished. #kidlitchat
- sybir: Loving it! Actually open now and working! RT @dawnmetcalf: Heard great things about Scrivener. Haven’t tried it, tho’. #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: @KateMessner What counts as a “known issue”? How do you know it’s there? (v. curious!) #kidlitchat
- TaraGebhardt: @cheriwilliams I like to print it out too. Double spaced for my trusty sharpy edits. #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: @rj_anderson Do you outline first? #kidlitchat
- elloecho: Does anyone else tape themselves reading their MS and then listen back? My agent rec and it has been an enormous help. #kidlitchat
- Buffyandrews: @EgmontGal I want to be challenged, for my work to be the best it can be. I would think every writer would want that & trust. #kidlitchat
- PattyJMurphy: @EgmontGal: So, are you now on Team Edward or Team Jacob? Want to force you to choose…NOW:) #kidlitchat
- DDHearn: @PattyJMurphy WE’re just getting a lot of rain here in SW Virginny. #kidlitchat
- bonnieadamson: @mitaliperkins You don’t know my Aunt Mabel . . . #kidlitchat
- sybir: Writing & Project mgmt in one. Definitely worth it! RT @KellyDHouse: Can someone explain Scrivener – is it worth it? #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: @mitaliperkins @debbieohi @EgmontGal @MelissadelaCruz O.O How did I miss *THAT*?! #kidlitchat
- rj_anderson: @dawnmetcalf Revising as you go may seem like wasted effort to many, but for me, polishing is the joy of writing. #kidlitchat
- tiffanytrent: @dawnmetcalf @rj_anderson @andreacremer I had to make myself quit. I was getting nowhere w/this novel b/c I kept tinkering. #kidlitchat
- emilyreads: @mitaliperkins Clearly you haven’t met my aunt Mabel. #kidlitchat
- MardouLedger: Me too! Getting excited, finally! RT @jennymckmoss: this conversation is making me want to revise something #kidlitchat
- MardouLedger: Me too! Getting excited, finally! RT @jennymckmoss: this conversation is making me want to revise something #kidlitchat
- AudryT: @EgmontGal Understood! As my husband has often muttered, “If only I’d had that 12th day,” re: a movie he wrote in 11 days. #kidlitchat
- Buffyandrews: @EgmontGal And always explain the why so they understand you’re not just being a bitch. #kidlitchat
- jeanie_w: I keep a list too RT @KateMessner: I don’t stop to revise while drafting. I keep list of “known issues” in notebook by computer.#kidlitchat
- KateMessner: @dawnmetcalf Known issues = problems I discover while writing but don’t want to stop to fix just then. #kidlitchat
- mgbuehrlen: For current ms, I wrote complete first draft, got critiques, did 2nd draft, got edit, now working on slicing word count. #kidlitchat
- jemifraser: @thebookbarr I use “wordle”, then the “find” button under edit – some words sneak in no matter how hard I try #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: RT @Buffyandrews @EgmontGal I want to be challenged/for my work 2 be the best it can be. I’d think every writer would want that. #kidlitchat
- crcook: great info about revising going on now at #kidlitchat
- crissachappell: @dawnmetcalf sometimes a book feels too…um…floaty until you print it out and touch it and shuffle pages #kidlitchat
- LaFabuliste: Oooh, #kidlitchat. What an expected surprise!
- ChristineTB: Read quote somewhere: “When is it time to stop editing?- When it’s not better, just different.” #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: I think if you never have 2nd thoughts about something finished, you may be too complacent or too confident, no? I second guess #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: @DDHearn I use MacSpeech sometimes for dictating, not reading out loud. #kidlitchat
- DDHearn: @KevinBloomfield Do you find the kids are really honest, or do they want to make you feel good about yourself? #kidlitchat
- mgbuehrlen: @PattyJMurphy You’re stealing my focus! (was Team Edward for books, totally Team Jacob for movies.) #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: @KateMessner Wow. That’s discipline! *kermit with envy* #kidlitchat
- KateMessner: @KellyDHouse Here’s a blog post showing how Scrivener can help w/ revision process: http://bit.ly/2Ddxfw (expand) #kidlitchat
- jennymckmoss: @MardouLedger I’ll need to read the transcript in a couple of months to get motivated! #kidlitchat
- rj_anderson: @debbieohi I did 5-7 pg outlines for my last 2 books, but only felt really happy when I stopped looking at them & just wrote! #kidlitchat
- MelissadelaCruz: @mitaliperkins I blame @EgmontGal ! LOL. Just saw new moon hence shirtless references. #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: @crcook Hey, you!! #kidlitchat
- bonnieadamson: I revise for language as I go, but need to have finished ms. to see structure. #kidlitchat
- RebeccAgent: it’s important for a writer to know WHY they are changing something- and the answer shouldn’t be agent/editor/critiquer said so #kidlitchat
- cheriwilliams: @KateMessner An e-reader would be great for revisions. That might be the thing that sells me on one! #KidLitChat
- mgbuehrlen: @EgmontGal Really? I 2nd guess everything I write. Thought it was just b/c I’m a newbie. #kidlitchat
- MardouLedger: Yes, this. I am still writing. RT @jennymckmoss: I’ll need to read the transcript in a couple of months to get motivated! #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: RT @mgbuehrlen: @PattyJMurphy Youre stealing my focus! (was Team Edward for books, totally Team Jacob for movies.) #kidlitchat
- amgamble: RT @jeanie_w: Revising is fun. #kidlitchat ~~Lately, conviction that I can fix it in revision is making it hard to finish the actual draft.
- mitaliperkins: Ahem, back to the subject. Revision. Has anybody brought up @halseanderson‘s great tips this month? http://bit.ly/5YHHEf (expand) #kidlitchat
- ChristineTB: Scrivener lets you keep “snapshots” of previous revisions so you an always go back and look at an old version of something. #kidlitchat
- AudryT: All this shirtlessness makes me want to go write my next scene, LOL. #kidlitchat
- peg366: RT @bonnieadamson: I revise for language as I go, but need to have finished ms. to see structure.Me, too. #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: @PattyJMurphy honey, I am Team Whatever I Can Get. But as my hairdresser Joel said “I’d do that ripped guy.”(sorry! Back OT now) #kidlitchat
- Buffyandrews: @EgmontGal No second thoughts. If there is a second thought, something’s wrong. Trust your instincts. #kidlitchat
- rachelarrr: @elloecho Nooo, I hate the sound of my voice recorded, hard to get past that. Luckily I can just make @michailv read it to me. #kidlitchat
- nkrell: @MelissadelaCruz I have to get in on this. Paul, (From the wolf pack) he was fine! #kidlitchat
- DDHearn: @debbieohi I’d love to find one where we could meet in person. Hard to find PB folks around here, though. #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: @MelissadelaCruz At least we will bleed out happy #kidlitchat
- TaraGebhardt: @KevinBloomfield YES, kids are the best audience to try things out on. LOVE doing a reading and seeing what makes the cut. #kidlitchat
- adamselzer: The second draft usually improves the book as much as the first one improved a blank page #kidlitchat
- KellyDHouse: @KateMessner Awesome! Thx. Concerned that a new gimmick will just distract me. Like FB and Twitter. #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: @MelissadelaCruz yes! That is moment that had Nico and Alison falling out of their chairs. I’ll help you by taking clothes off #kidlitchat
- cheriwilliams: @EgmontGal Isn’t second guessing yourself part of a writer’s job description? #KidLitChat
- marybrebner: Struggling with my second revision. End is not working out correctly. Darn it all! #kidlitchat
- kellybarnhill: Favorite revision truth: finding secrets, images and subtexts that you have no memory of. The book undresses and reveals itself. #kidlitchat
- jeanie_w: @amgamble I would have thought that would make the first draft easier. #kidlitchat
- thebbsecret: LOL! RT @MelissadelaCruz B/c wht we really need when we are bleeding from our head is our buff boyfriend to take off his shirt! #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: RT @adamselzer: The second draft usually improves the book as much as the first one improved a blank page #kidlitchat
- crcook: @dawnmetcalf hello my partner in artistic slasher crime #kidlitchat
- MardouLedger: @mitaliperkins Yes! @halseanderson‘s tips are going to be VERY useful when I get to the revision part. Saving them all. #kidlitchat
- Buffyandrews: @DDHearn I wrote PB. It was dang difficult. #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: @nkrell But Paul is such a dick in the book! Though very hunkily cast, I concur. #kidlitchat
- DDHearn: @dutchhillgirl I think I am in your camp. My typing is so bad that the constant errors distract me. My pencil never fails. #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: RT @rj_anderson: @mgbuehrlen No, second-guessing everything you write doesnt mean youre a newbie, it means youre a writer. #kidlitchat
- mgbuehrlen: Right now I’m focusing on slashing word count, revamping timeline, tightening secondary plot threads… #kidlitchat
- carolgrannick: RT@mitaliperkins Has anybody brought up @halseanderson‘s great tips this month? http://bit.ly/5YHHEf (expand) #kidlitchat
- MelissadelaCruz: @nkrell OMG, Paul! I know! And that Embry guy? He was hot too. #kidlitchat #shirtlesschat
- bonnieadamson: RT @mitaliperkins: Has anybody brought up @halseanderson‘s great tips this mo.? http://bit.ly/5YHHEf (expand) <–yes, but it bears RTing! #kidlitchat
- elloecho: @rachelarrr I hate my voice too, but man is it ever helpful to hear your ms read out loud. #kidlitchat
- andreacremer: @marybrebner Getting the ending right is always one of the toughest spots for me #kidlitchat
- dawnmetcalf: @tiffanytrent @rj_anderson @andreacremer Me: *tinker tinker* I’m sorry? What? You want PLOT? Silly me… (drat, they noticed.) #kidlitchat
- EgmontGal: @cheriwilliams I thought it might interest you to know that editors sometimes do that, too. We rethink. That’s human nature. #kidlitchat
- TracyMarchini: … I think I came into #kidlitchat at the wrong time.. lions, and tigers, and wolf packs – oh my!
- AudryT: RT@kellybarnhill [In revisions] the book undresses and reveals itself. #kidlitchat
- DDHearn: @EKokie I would think you would have to have a lot of confidence in yourself for a critique group. Otherwise could overwhelm. #kidlitchat
- SarahDarerLitt: RT @kellybarnhill: Fave revision truth: finding secrets, images & subtexts. The book undresses & reveals itself. #kidlitchat
- PattyJMurphy: RT @EgmontGal: @PattyJMurphy honey, I am Team Whatever I Can Get.” <–LOL. Okay, I’ll behave now. Promise. (BTW: I’m Team Eddie) #kidlitchat
- debbieohi: @thunderchikin Hm..I’ve never used MacSpeech to read aloud. I should try that. Would make it easier on my voice! #kidlitchat
- nkrell: @EgmontGal I don’t remember him from the book. It’s been a while. New hunk…Daniel from The Dark Divine! #kidlitchat
- bonnieadamson: @DDHearn But my pencil wants to doodle and sketch in the margins. Keyboard keeps me writing! #kidlitchat
- rachelarrr: @elloecho I believe it! I’m sure I could get used to it eventually… maybe. #kidlitchat
- marybrebner: Cork board & index cards are saving grace. So’s printing out the entire manuscript & writing all over it. Multicolored MS! #kidlitchat
- jennymckmoss: RT @kellybarnhill: Favorite revision truth: finding secrets, images and subtexts that you have no memory of. #kidlitchat
- melodychamlee: #kidlitchat using 4 act structure and 4th version beat sheet I did a screenplay in 2 wks. Edits took 2 more wks. Recommended over outlines.
