Kidlitchat Transcript – May 18
| 1:01 am | kidlitchat: | TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:01 am | sharifwrites: | RT @gregpincus: TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:01 am | lyonmartin: | @gregpincus you like to walk on the wild side huh? #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | EgmontGal: | @gregpincu Neil Patrick Harris is on Glee! For a showqueen trapped in a woman’s body, it’s a tough choice. #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | AudryT: | RT @gregpincus: TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | kellyhashway: | Hi, everyone! #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | EbonyMcKenna: | Yay, I’ve timed it right to join in #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | DianaPaz_: | K, I’m going into lurk-mode for the #kidlitchat. Bye, and @ me if you need me! |
| 1:02 am | bonnieadamson: | TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | EgmontGal: | What tells me that I’ve found a winner? I love it, that’s all. I just want to keep reading. #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | gregpincus: | @EgmontGal And he sings Dream On, I saw in commercial. Intriguing. But there is this thing called TiVo…. #kidlitchat |
| 1:02 am | TaraLazar: | Oh no, it’s time for #kidlitchat & I’m just about to read to the kids! Man, I gotta get these girls tucked in earlier. Try to join ya later. |
| 1:03 am | ErinDealey: | Whoa–loaded question. No spoilers @EgmontGal, please! CA tweeps have to wait a few hours for #Glee! #kidlitchat |
| 1:03 am | elanaroth: | I know I’ve found a winner when I want to talk to people about it IMMEDIATELY. #kidlitchat |
| 1:03 am | debbieohi: | RT @kidlitchat: TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:03 am | MaricarMac: | looking forward to another great #kidlitchat. hi everyone! |
| 1:03 am | srjohannes: | @EgmontGal come on you know how to multi task – Patrick neil harris had me at mullet |
| 1:03 am | EgmontGal: | Am I convinced by the book, or am I trying to talk myself into it? Am I pulling for the protagonist?Do my hormones want the guy? #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | PaulWHankins: | Mr. Hankins is in lurk mode too. Have a great session. #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | gregpincus: | @kellyhashway hi, Kelly #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | pippinmathur: | Can’t move or baby b will wake up. Good time to check into #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | LaFabuliste: | Glee!! But I’m here, too. So what’s the topic? Can it be Neil Patrick Harris? #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | EbonyMcKenna: | Topic – I keep laughing and crying as I type – tells me I’m on to something #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | ErinDealey: | Voice, hook, or character? You know I believe you gotta have a hook. But Voice and Character=hooks. #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | Tiare75: | Hi, everyone! Ready to chat. #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | mitaliperkins: | RT @kidlitchat: TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | patricemichelle: | Hi everyone! I’ve missed this chat. #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | amyknichols: | Hi everyone. |
| 1:04 am | TheAsianAngel: | I know something’s a winner when I’m in a situation and think “This is SO character X” #kidlitchat |
| 1:04 am | adamselzer: | If I’m having fun with a project, I’m doing it right. If I’m not, I’m (probably) not. #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | Shelltex: | Hi all. #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | j_ro333: | @gregpincus #kidlitchat I’m here! Not gonna lie – I have hockey and basketball on. But I’ll be tweeting anyway. |
| 1:05 am | michellesussman: | I start writing with a hook in mind, but if my main character doesn’t develop well, the novel falls apart…. #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | ErinDealey: | And come to think of it, character=voice. Is this a chicken-or-the-egg thing? #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | gregpincus: | Interesting, @ElanaRoth – on the writing side, it’s similar for me: it just stays with me, excites me #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | adamselzer: | If every idea generates more of them on its own, instead of running me into walls. #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | EgmontUSA: | Do I get chills? Can I not put down my Kindle, even though I know there are many, MANY other things I’m supposed to be doing? #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | TheAsianAngel: | Real-life situation, I should say. #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | ErinDealey: | So true. RT @adamselzer If I’m having fun with a project, I’m doing it right. If I’m not, I’m (probably) not. #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | EgmontGal: | Do I just want to find out what’s going to happen to him or her? Will I keep reading? And will an 8 or 14 yr old feel like that? #kidlitchat |
| 1:05 am | inkyelbows: | #kidlitchat is on -now-. TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? |
| 1:05 am | lyonmartin: | Isn’t ALL of it all merging together important? #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | j_ro333: | @gregpincus #kidlitchat Character + Story. It cannot be one OR the other. Great character in boring, poorly constructed situation = useless. |
| 1:06 am | TrishDoller: | For me, it’s when I forget that the character is a character and start thinking of him as a real person. #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | gregpincus: | @LaFabuliste Neil is not the topic, but can be if we can get him to come to chat |
| 1:06 am | jafhedlund: | RT @EbonyMcKenna: Topic – I keep laughing and crying as I type – tells me Im on to something #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | LaFabuliste: | Hmm… how do you know you have a winner? As intern, I knew I loved a book we acquired when I ran into my boss’s office for… #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | Tiare75: | I know I’ve written a winner if my story manages to make me LOL. #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | WendySparrow: | I know I have a winner going when beta-readers stop showering and sleeping to read it. #kidlitchat #ILikeStinkyInsomniacs |
| 1:06 am | srjohannes: | for me voice is the glue – you can work on plot or hook or premise- but voice is tough to build if you dont have it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | elanaroth: | If I don’t want to tell people about it, the book has not caught me. #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | TheAsianAngel: | Also, if I laugh out loud in anticipation of writing a scene because I know how funny it can be. #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | Shelltex: | When I want to keep writing to see what the characters will do or say next. #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | LaFabuliste: | …last six pages of MS. I needed them. I craved them. I could not live without them. #kidlitchat |
| 1:06 am | sharifwrites: | I have unfinished projects. But when I finish something and still love it, I feel like I have something. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | EbonyMcKenna: | If all my other projects fall by the wayside because I’m so engrossed. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | kellyhashway: | @TrishDoller I completely agree! #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | jafhedlund: | Yes! RT @TheAsianAngel: Also, if I laugh out loud in anticipation of writing a scene because I know how funny it can be. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | michellesussman: | RT @Shelltex: When I want to keep writing to see what the characters will do or say next. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | Georgia_McBride: | RT @inkyelbows: #kidlitchat is on -now-. TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? |
| 1:07 am | kellyhashway: | For me, it’s when the character’s voice is in my head even when I’m not writing. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | VBTremper: | Lurking on #kidlitchat. |
| 1:07 am | ErinDealey: | Agree! RT @LaFabuliste …last six pages of MS. I needed them. I craved them. I could not live without them. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | amyknichols: | For me, it’s voice. When I have a solid and interesting voice in my head, I can’t stop writing or thinking about the story. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | EgmontGal: | Most books I like I want to read again. Or again and again. That’s a really good sign, if I find myself rereading. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | JessicaLeader: | 1 of 2 things: a plot I want to see resolved and a character whose pain I want to see eased. Pref w/good voice. #kidlitchat |
| 1:07 am | alittlesandy: | Yes! RT @Tiare75 I know I’ve written a winner if my story manages to make me LOL #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | sharifwrites: | Also when crit group is more engaged than usual and eagerly awaits the next installment. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | TheAsianAngel: | Like laughing before telling a joke because you know the punchline. If I get giggles before writing a scene, it’s a winner. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | gregpincus: | So, basically, for writers, we know we’ve got a winner when we have created life |
| 1:08 am | srjohannes: | @JessicaLeader i love that jessica! #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | Shelltex: | Agree on feeling project is a winner if it makes me laugh or cry. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | ShrryAdams: | RT @inkyelbows: #kidlitchat is on -now-. TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? |
| 1:08 am | jafhedlund: | When I get teary during the writing process – or I am laughing out loud #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | pippinmathur: | RT @EgmontGal: Most books I like I want to read again. Or again and again. That’s a really good sign, if I find myself rereading. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | ErinDealey: | OK but sometimes I think I’ve written a winner and get great rejections… #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | skodobah: | When my beta readers dream about my characters and obsess about them on a daily basis. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | michellesussman: | RT @gregpincus: So, basically, for writers, we know weve got a winner when we have created life |
| 1:08 am | patricemichelle: | I know I have a good one when I can’t stop thinking about the characters & I write out the entire story outline, um, in detail. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | j_ro333: | #kidlitchat It’s also great when I put it away for a few weeks, then reread, and fall in love with it all over again. |
| 1:08 am | Becky_Levine: | Hey–Got Joni Mitchell playing & ready 2 chat re voice. I think I did ok on my MG mystery, but SOME challenge on historical YA. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | WendySparrow: | I also like when I’ve let a project stew after complete and come back six months later and it feels like rediscovering treasure. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | JanGangsei: | For me, when my characters become “real” with their own quirks/motivations — not me imagining how I’d react in their situation. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | amyknichols: | @gregpincus That’s a good way of putting it. |
| 1:08 am | the_familiars: | For me it starts with a great premise. A one-liner that excites me and others. Then it’s about execution. #kidlitchat |
| 1:08 am | srjohannes: | RT @gregpincus: So, basically, for writers, we know weve got a winner when we have created life |
| 1:09 am | LaFabuliste: | Gah, I cannot focus on two things at once. See you all at commercials. #kidlitchat |
| 1:09 am | CityCastles: | RT @inkyelbows #kidlitchat is on -now-. TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? |
| 1:09 am | LiteraryAsylum: | I want the promise at the beginning to be resolved and every move made is taking me there. Character in the story. #kidlitchat |
| 1:09 am | j_ro333: | #kidlitchat Lastly – when I work my tail off to hack and slash and get it in the best possible shape – that’s love, baby. |
| 1:09 am | ErinDealey: | RT @srjohannes: RT @gregpincus: So, basically, for writers, we know weve got a winner when we have created life |
| 1:09 am | Becky_Levine: | Oh–thought the topic was voice, see that’s just possible way to recognize a winner. Starting over! #kidlitchat |
| 1:09 am | patricemichelle: | Haha, I stop asking my agent, which one of these do you like best? #amobsessed! #kidlitchat |
| 1:09 am | EbonyMcKenna: | #kidlitchat – @sharitwrites – yes the crit group is v important |
| 1:09 am | Tiare75: | @TheAsianAngel Yes! I get the giggles, too, and I know it is working. #kidlitchat |
| 1:09 am | kellyhashway: | RT @gregpincus: So, basically, for writers, we know weve got a winner when we have created life |
| 1:09 am | JessicaLeader: | @WendySparrow So rare for me to come back and discover treasure! Mostly discovering garbage, w/a few gems thrown in… #kidlitchat |
| 1:10 am | ImaginingLily: | Great topic @gregpincus #kidlitchat |
| 1:10 am | JessicaLeader: | @srjohannes Thank you! Subj was similar on a recent MFA chat, so I had time to think about it! |
| 1:10 am | j_ro333: | Like! RT @the_familiars: For me it starts with a great premise.A one-liner that excites me and others.Then it’s about execution. #kidlitchat |
| 1:10 am | TheAsianAngel: | @Tiare75 Thankfully, I write in solace or people would think I was a maniac, laughing to myself. Hehe! #kidlitchat |
| 1:10 am | sharifwrites: | @JanGangsei That’s a good one, when characters have a life of their own. #kidlitchat |
| 1:10 am | onbeyondwords: | Hi everyone. As both a reader and a writer, for me – you have to care about the character. #kidlitchat |
| 1:10 am | j_ro333: | RT @WendySparrow: I also like when I’ve let a project stew after complete and come back six months later and it feels like rediscovering treasure. #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | bonnieadamson: | I know it’s worth the effort when I look forward to going back there (to the ms.) every morning. #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | ErinDealey: | Yes–my agent’s opinion=important. Caring abt character–yes. But isn’t that voice? #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | WendySparrow: | @JessicaLeader Still… you have enough perspective to recognize gems and toss out garbage at that point. #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | TrishDoller: | @TheAsianAngel @Tiare75 I was giggling at the B&N cafe today. Felt like a goof! #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | TheAsianAngel: | You also know it’s good when you think, “Holy crap, this came from ME?” #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | kellyhashway: | When you don’t get tired of reading the story–even after multiple revisions! #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | Becky_Levine: | Sometimes I feel like I’m writing a winner, cuz the hero keeps demanding my attention. Even if I’m not giving her all she wants. #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | j_ro333: | #kidlitchat From exterior forces: when my beta readers start talking about the toy line and merchandizing. |
| 1:11 am | onbeyondwords: | @TheAsianAngel It’s a great feeling to go back and read something you’ve written and be surprised at how funny it is. #kidlitchat |
| 1:11 am | the_familiars: | Personally, I know I’ve written a winner when a scene or line elicits emotion (laughter, sadness, excitement) every time I read. #kidlitchat |
| 1:12 am | adamselzer: | @onbeyondwords Or you can just laugh along with them. Like, you don’t necessarily CARE about Richard III… #kidlitchat |
| 1:12 am | gregpincus: | Wow @WendySparrow – putting something aside for 6 months is mighty impressive. 6 minutes isn’t enough, tho |
| 1:12 am | the_familiars: | Professionally, I know I’ve written a winner when my agent calls and says a publisher has made an offer. #kidlitchat |
| 1:12 am | ImaginingLily: | When I’m typing through my tears I know I’ve got something. #kidlitchat |
| 1:12 am | Tiare75: | @TheAsianAngel Sometimes I write in the library or Starbucks and burst into laughter. #kidlitchat |
| 1:12 am | LaFabuliste: | Commercial! #kidlitchat |
| 1:12 am | pippinmathur: | @bonnieadamson that’s it for me, illo or story. If I wake up in the morning and an excited about current project, a good sign. #kidlitchat |
| 1:12 am | ErinDealey: | yes! Especially the later drafts. RT @bonnieadamson I know it’s worth the effort when I look forward to going back to the ms. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | LaFabuliste: | I knew I had a relationship when I felt that flutter in my own stomach; I knew I had tension when I left starbucks in shakes. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | EgmontGal: | @adamselzer yeah, but that’s why I prefer Richard II It’s more moving! I never like the 2nd half of biopics when it falls apart #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | j_ro333: | RT @the_familiars: Personally, I know I’ve written a winner when a scene or line elicits emotion (laughter, sadness, excitement) every time I read. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | TheAsianAngel: | Gigglers of the world, unite! RT @TrishDoller: @Tiare75 @jafhedlund I was giggling at the B&N cafe today. Felt like a goof! #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | hpinski: | Pacing, rhythm is key. I can just feel by the flow if it’s good or garbage. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | KatGirl_Studio: | RT @kellyhashway: When you don’t get tired of reading the story–even after multiple revisions! <–Yes exactly! #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | WendySparrow: | @gregpincus It’s really hard to set stuff aside to gain perspective, but it’s so worth it when you can… even for three months. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | LiaKeyes: | @gregpincus Hi everyone! So happy to be here. I’ve been working so hard lately I haven’t been able to play. Topic? #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | srjohannes: | when my agent says “you nailed it!” thats when i know I have something. whether editors think so remains to be seen. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | ErinDealey: | haha! Agree. RT @the_familiars: Professionally, I know Ive written a winner when my agent calls & says publisher has made offer. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | authorViviAnna: | I feel like I’ve written a winner when I can think of 10 more adventures for my characters to go on #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | EgmontGal: | @kellyhashway I like it when I go to sleep and keep dreaming about a book. Happened this weekend with Guernsey Literary Society. #kidlitchat |
| 1:13 am | EbonyMcKenna: | Agree – RT @j_ro333: #kidlitchat It’s also great when I put it away for a few weeks, then reread, and fall in love with it all over again. |
| 1:14 am | DrlemonWCGGG: | #kidlitchat Well, my hook for the Peep story is pretty good. |
| 1:14 am | LaFabuliste: | Glee’s back! #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | PattyJMurphy: | @gregpincus: @WendySparrow: E.B. White referred to stepping back from a ms as “Letting the body heat out of it!” Love that:) #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | adamselzer: | @EgmontGal I have this theory that no great play has a 2nd half better than the 1st. I’m sure it could be shot apart, though. #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | Becky_Levine: | Oh, yeah, I’m pretty sure I’m on to SOMETHING when my mom likes it. Unlike the stereotype, she’s pretty…honest! #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | jafhedlund: | I’m actually struggling with this issue now. As an unpublished author, I’m still not sure when I’ve got a winner… #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | MaricarMac: | This for me too! @kellyhashway When you don’t get tired of reading the story–even after multiple revisions! #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | lorna: | RT @ImaginingLily When I’m typing through my tears I know I’ve got something. #kidlitchat >> wow. |
| 1:14 am | JessicaLeader: | I don’t think it’s ever clear to me that what I’m working on is publishable.Drafts go thru so many stages & I need external opin #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | DrlemonWCGGG: | #kidlitchat Don’t know if that was too relevant, though. |
| 1:14 am | kellyhashway: | @EgmontGal I have to keep a writing journal by my bed for exactly that reason! #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | michellesussman: | RT @jafhedlund: Im actually struggling with this issue now. As an unpublished author, Im still not sure when Ive got a winner… #kidlitchat |
| 1:14 am | gregpincus: | @the_familiars But what if they don’t make an offer on the first go round. Do you then doubt that you’d written a winner? #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | VBTremper: | RT @the_familiars: Professionally, I know I’ve written a winner when my agent calls and says a publisher has made an offer. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | gregpincus: | @LiaKeyes TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | ImaginingLily: | And… when my characters won’t leave me alone, even when I’m sleeping. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | patricemichelle: | When the characters become so real, I think about them non stop #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | tristanbancks: | Hey kidlitchatters. Great topic & discussion. Would like to stay but I should write. Look fwd to reading the transcript. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | TheAsianAngel: | @onbeyondwords Isn’t that the best? Then you just want to show the world. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | jafhedlund: | …b/c sometimes I love something (and so does my critique group), but it editors/agents tell me it won’t work. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | ErinDealey: | @EgmontGal @kellyhashway Loved that book! Maybe because it’s about books. Gave it to everyone one Christmas. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | Becky_Levine: | @jafhedlund Re unpublished & knowing–this is the hardest, I think. Pushing forward when you think/hope it’s a winner, but… #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | onbeyondwords: | @adamselzer True – you can even laugh at them. Really, any reason to laugh is good. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | WendySparrow: | @gregpincus @PattyJMurphy You know… I thought I could be objective, but revising was so much easier six months later. #kidlitchat |
| 1:15 am | LiaKeyes: | RT @gregpincus: @LiaKeyes TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | WendySparrow: | RT @PattyJMurphy: @gregpincus: @WendySparrow: E.B. White referred to stepping back from a ms as “Letting the body heat out of it!” Love that:) #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | JessicaLeader: | @srjohannes Altho don’t you doubt if you’ve really nailed it? For my 1st and only pubbed, “a winner” was when I let go #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | jafhedlund: | Part of “voice” is confidence, authenticity and authority. It’s hard to trust those if you haven’t had prof. validation #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | the_familiars: | @gregpincus For me-professionally speaking-it’s a zero sum game. You either win or lose based on the sale. No moral victories. #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | PattyJMurphy: | RT @Becky_Levine: Im pretty sure Im on to SOMETHING when my mom likes it. Unlike stereotype, shes pretty honest! <–Mine, too:) #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | cjomololu: | I read it over and even though I don’t remember writing it,surprisingly it doesn’t suck. #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | JessicaLeader: | Maybe I’m captain peevish here, but I’ve heard my opin echoed elsewhere so I don’t think I’m totally crazy… #kidlitchat |
| 1:16 am | gregpincus: | @WendySparrow @PattyJMurphy six months is impressive. weeks seems to work for me. But I do agree perspective/distance helps #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | srjohannes: | @JessicaLeader i agree with her….for like a day. |
| 1:17 am | patricemichelle: | re:Not sure when? Sometimes you just HAVE to finish it for yourself. I think that often shines through in the writing. #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | VBTremper: | RT @cjomololu: I read it over and even though I don’t remember writing it,surprisingly it doesn’t suck. #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | onbeyondwords: | @TheAsianAngel Absolutely – or at least show it off to my critique group and other writers in my family – to begin with. #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | JessicaLeader: | @WendySparrow Agreed. The skill to separate garbage from gems is a pleasing one to have acquired! #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | cjomololu: | Winner is subjective. I’ve never read the actual hardback of my book because I know I’ll find things that I want to change. #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | TheAsianAngel: | Sad, but I’ve never been one of those people whose characters “talk” to them. That concept creeps me out a wee bit. #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | adamselzer: | @EgmontGal Hmm…yes…also Arsenic and Old Lace…maybe I should exempt comedies or just abandon this theory altogether. #kidlitchat |
| 1:17 am | ImaginingLily: | @WendySparrow – I agree. It’s been six months for me, and now I’m itching to revise. #kidlitchat |
| 1:18 am | gregpincus: | @the_familiars Zero sum? So you don’t think that a relationship forged by an unsold MS can lead to future biz? #kidlitchat |
| 1:18 am | lyonmartin: | I wrote a horrible first draft last year but the story won’t let me go. #kidlitchat |
| 1:18 am | JessicaLeader: | @srjohannes Ha! Glad to know I am not totally captain peevish! You seem very cheery, so it’s nice to find you in the boat. #kidlitchat |
| 1:18 am | EbonyMcKenna: | RT #kidlitchat is on -now-. TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? |
| 1:18 am | LiaKeyes: | @gregpincus I’m only finishing first book now, five years after the first of three agents offered rep based on a workshop sample #kidlitchat |
| 1:18 am | ErinDealey: | @WendySparrow revising so much easier 6mos later haha Working on mg revisions now &finally decided agent & 3 editors=right! duh. #kidlitchat |
| 1:18 am | jafhedlund: | @lyonmartin aren’t all first drafts horrible? lol! #kidlitchat |
| 1:18 am | TheAsianAngel: | Mine is more a gut feeling. I know as I’m writing something if it’ll work or not. Unfortunately, sometimes I still plow ahead. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | notawriter: | RT @bonnieadamson: I know it’s worth the effort when I look forward to going back there (to the ms.) every morning. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | tia_bowman: | I’ve written a winner when I enjoy reading it. I’m a perfectionist [aren't we all?], so to really love my work is a huge feat. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | EbonyMcKenna: | #kidlitchat – didn’t know whatI had with Ondine, but wanted to finish it to please myself – only then I thought ‘I might have something’ |
| 1:19 am | gregpincus: | @the_familiars As a screenwriter,I got rewrite work because of scripts that didn’t sell. Those were professionally successful. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | j_ro333: | You Betcha!!! RT @jafhedlund: @lyonmartin aren’t all first drafts horrible? lol! #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | sharifwrites: | @lyonmartin First drafts are horrible. Persist if your instincts tell you to. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | ErinDealey: | Do it! @ImaginingLily itching to revise. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | kellyhashway: | @TheAsianAngel Having your characters talk to you is a good thing. It means they have a strong voice, which is always good. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | Becky_Levine: | @lyonmartin I’m in the middle of that horrible 1st draft right now–and, yeah, it won’t let me go. That’s a good thing, mostly! #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | WendySparrow: | @ImaginingLily Yes. I’ve hated revising in the past when I was revising a month after completion. This time it was easy and fun. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | hpinski: | when I don’t feel like I’m thinking up a story as much as I’m writing one that wants to be told. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | jennymckmoss: | I can’t believe I forgot about chat. Good evening, everyone. #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | Tiare75: | My characters don’t talk to me, exactly, but I can watch them like a movie in my head. Is that normal? #kidlitchat |
| 1:19 am | cjomololu: | @gregpincus I don’t trust people who don’t have ‘practice’ books in a drawer somewhere. Or won’t admit to it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | lyonmartin: | @jafhedlund: R they? #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | elanaroth: | How does an agent contribute to this conversation? #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | srjohannes: | @JessicaLeader cheery? its an act my dear all an act. Im actually really grumpy |
| 1:20 am | gregpincus: | @adamselzer Comedies probably do shoot your theory apart. Farces that build and build, for instance. #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | jennymckmoss: | I forgot how to find the topic. *blushes* #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | hpinski: | RT @sharifwrites: @lyonmartin First drafts are horrible. Persist if your instincts tell you to. #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | sandyfussell: | I don’t think I could write it if my characters didn’t talk to me. Sometimes I think I am a listener-transcriber not a writer #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | cjomololu: | @Tiare75 I hope it is! #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | MaricarMac: | @jafhedlund the challenge is to trust our own voice enough to let it shine, even without validation #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | TheAsianAngel: | @Tiare75 Gasp! I so totally do that. #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | adamselzer: | LOVE 1 voice I experimented w this week, but I don’t think it’d be nearly as good by p100. Line b/w hook and gimmick. #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | the_familiars: | @gregpincus Yes, you make a good point. But as both an author/screenwriter an unsold script or MS does not feel like a “win”. #kidlitchat |
| 1:20 am | JessicaLeader: | My sweetie just lured me in for glee. Neil Patrick Harris singing “piano man” =brilliant. #kidlitchat multi-tasking |
| 1:21 am | KatGirl_Studio: | @Tiare75 yep I do the same thing actually #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | ErinDealey: | @jennymckmoss Good luck keeping up! even with Tweetchat I’m missing stuff! #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | bonnieadamson: | @elanaroth By elaborating on what moves you to make an offer. |
| 1:21 am | patricemichelle: | The more books you write, the tighter your first drafts usually are. Er, or maybe I should say…less # of rewrites. LOL! #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | j_ro333: | @lyonmartin #kidlitchat I already shot 2 sequences from a film and I’m now not happy with the script. Story there. Needs TONS of editing. |
| 1:21 am | onbeyondwords: | @WendySparrow It’s heartening you went back to revise 6 months later. Maybe there’s hope for the ms I shelved last summer. #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | sandyfussell: | @cjomololu I agree. Practise books are a sign of evolving writing. And writer has to evolve. #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | jennymckmoss: | @cjomololu I have a MG fantasy I worked years on in a drawer. Still miss it sometimes. |
| 1:21 am | MaricarMac: | @TheAsianAngel me too. my characters don’t talk to me. I eavesdrop on them #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | cjomololu: | @elanaroth How do you know when you spot a ‘winner’? #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | Becky_Levine: | @MaricarMac I think my challenge is to PUSH my own voice far enough, then pull back IF it goes too wonky. |
| 1:21 am | srjohannes: | thats a good question to pub authors – if you dont sell – do you lose faith that you have a winner? or do you stay confident? #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | LaFabuliste: | @Tiare75 Mine don’t speak to me, but thru me. Rare is day I dont have a convo between Hortense and Napoleon on way home. #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | gregpincus: | @ElanaRoth – well, do you “know it when you see it” in terms of why you ask someone to rep them? is it hook? Voice? All? #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | kellyhashway: | @elanaroth Which do you look for right off the bat? Very first sentence. #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | ErinDealey: | @JessicaLeader no #Glee spoilers! That’s the rule–right Greg? #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | TheAsianAngel: | I also imagine Jude Law’s voice in my head reading the story. If Jude Law can’t make it sound good, it gotsta go! #kidlitchat |
| 1:21 am | jennymckmoss: | @ErinDealey This is fast. Do you know the topic? #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | Becky_Levine: | @adamselzer What do ou do when you’re experimenting with a voice? Write scenes just for that? Play with difft versions? #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | tia_bowman: | @Tiare75 I do that too! It’s the only way to make sense of the scene, to imagine it. It would be so cool if my chars talked 2me. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | elanaroth: | @kellyhashway I need a sense of character immediately. I tend to like some self-awareness from the get-go. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | KarlaKT: | When someone I highly respect was laughing so hard his wife called from the kitchen to ask what he was doing…reading my book! #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | LiteraryAsylum: | finishing a first draft is a win! That is the first step. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | TheAsianAngel: | I love that!!!! RT @MaricarMac: @TheAsianAngel me too. my characters dont talk to me. I eavesdrop on them #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | cjomololu: | @srjohannes I’m still revising the first book that hasn’t sold. Yet. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | gregpincus: | @the_familiars I agree with that on the feeling front, indeed. When my specs don’t sell, it’s no fun. Period. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | WendySparrow: | @elanaroth I have a question, Elana. How often do you recognize talent even if THIS might not be their story? Do you tell them? #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | elanaroth: | @gregpincus Hook gets me to request it. Voice gets me to sign it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | elanaroth: | @cjomololu I can’t stop telling people about it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | adamselzer: | @Becky_Levine throw a bunch at the wall, see what sticks, try to guess if it’ll stay stuck for 200 pages. #kidlitchat |
| 1:22 am | sandyfussell: | @jennymckmoss TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | Natalie_Fischer: | If I WANT to reread, HAVE to have it, keep thinking about it weeks later, or want to write OMG to author I know it’s a winner #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | ErinDealey: | @jennymckmoss TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | gregpincus: | @cjomololu I like “practice book” as a concept though I don’t know anyone who thinks that’s what they’re writing! #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | LiaKeyes: | RT @elanaroth: @gregpincus Hook gets me to request it. Voice gets me to sign it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | jennymckmoss: | @srjohannes My first ms didn’t sell. The best thing I did was set it aside and write two others, which did sell. Tough decision #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | j_ro333: | RT @elanaroth: @gregpincus Hook gets me to request it. Voice gets me to sign it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | elanaroth: | @WendySparrow Yes. I’ve signed brilliant writers whose first book I didn’t sell. Knew they had it. Sold Book 2. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | LaFabuliste: | Ah, voice. That mythical unicorn of the fiction universe. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | JessicaLeader: | @srjohannes Great q! Hard to figure out when you shd trust gut vs murder darling. Sometimes darling just isn’t dressed well #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | yachicka: | when characters take over the story and wreak havock with what I ‘thought’ book was about – love/hate that #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | Becky_Levine: | Les Edgerton talks re 1st scene hooking reader onto character. Since/if you’re minimizing bkgrd info, I think voice helps lots. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | jennymckmoss: | @sandyfussell @ErinDealey Ah. Thank you. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | Shelltex: | @elanaroth As an agent do you ever read something and immediately have particular editor in mind for it? #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | srjohannes: | love this! RT @elanaroth: @gregpincus Hook gets me to request it. Voice gets me to sign it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | Natalie_Fischer: | This –> RT @gregpincus Hook gets me to request it. Voice gets me to sign it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | adamselzer: | Like, with one book I had 5-6 narrators, but drafted chapters from about 8 more as experiments. #kidlitchat |
| 1:23 am | gregpincus: | RT @elanaroth: Hook gets me to request it. Voice gets me to sign it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | bonnieadamson: | @gregpincus But do you ever REALLY give up on a book? I always think I can save it, even if put aside for later . . . #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | ErinDealey: | omg you guys. How much caffeine did you inject today? #tryingtokeepup #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | hpinski: | RT @yachicka: when characters take over the story and wreak havock with what I thought book was about – love/hate that #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | authorViviAnna: | it is definitely the voice that keeps me reading a book #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | BrighterScribe: | RT @inkyelbows: #kidlitchat is on -now-. TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Hook/voice/char? |
| 1:24 am | TheAsianAngel: | @kellyhashway Oh, I’m not questioning the utility! I just don’t need any confusion w/ the other voices already in my head. |
| 1:24 am | elanaroth: | @Shelltex Yes. If I can’t think of 3 editors who will want to see it, it’s probably too specific of a taste. #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | BrighterScribe: | RT @JessicaLeader: 1 of 2 things: a plot I want to see resolved and a character whose pain I want to see eased. Pref w/good voice. #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | TaraLazar: | I knew I had winner when crit partner said “this is going to sell.” Then I subbed to agent who rejected, but said it would sell. #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | ErinDealey: | NIcely put. @gregpincus RT @elanaroth: Hook gets me to request it. Voice gets me to sign it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | BrighterScribe: | RT @JessicaLeader: I don’t think it’s ever clear to me that what I’m working on is publishable.Drafts go thru so many stages & I need external opin #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | WendySparrow: | @onbeyondwords WIP was a frame story with more stories contained within, but I needed to cut. I couldn’t do it… then. #kidlitchat |
| 1:24 am | Becky_Levine: | @adamselzer Cool. So not just playing with voice, but pov characters. #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | jennymckmoss: | The biggest difference between my first ms (didn’t sell) and the next two was Voice. I just couldn’t get it on the first one. #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | srjohannes: | @bonnieadamson i have a couple old books that begged me to put them out of their misery |
| 1:25 am | lyonmartin: | @j_ro333 that sucks #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | Tiare75: | @gregpincus I was convinced my “practice book” was awesome. Oh, how I’ve grown since then! TG. #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | TheAsianAngel: | @adamselzer Oy. I can’t invest that much effort into something if I’ve got any doubt. #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | CarolTanzman: | Hi, all. just signed in. @bonnieadamson@gregpincus. Yes, I have given up on a book. After really trying to make it work. #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | kellyhashway: | @elanaroth For those who sold book 2, did you have an idea that book 1 wouldn’t sell? If so, what made you offer representation? #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | WendySparrow: | @elanaroth Awww… I sort of want to hug you for saying that… #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | gregpincus: | @Natalie_Fischer just for the record, that was @ElanaRoth who said it. But it’s great and I would happily take credit for it #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | j_ro333: | @TaraLazar #kidlitchat I had same thing – a few agents rejected but said it would sell. Never understood that. |
| 1:25 am | authorViviAnna: | I knew I had a winner when even after rewriting it for the 5th time, I still LOVED the characters and the story #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | EgmontGal: | @ErinDealey Plot and character –do I root for protagonist?–are what get me to love it, though #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | bonnieadamson: | @TaraLazar And was that the one that DID sell? #kidlitchat |
| 1:25 am | TaraLazar: | A book you give up on isn’t a waste. It helped you learn how to write the next book better. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | elanaroth: | @kellyhashway Talk to @andy_marino. His first book was WEIRD. But he’s just so goddamn talented. I knew he was someone to grow. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | sandyfussell: | @adamselzer How many narrators did you ultimately keep? #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | LiaKeyes: | Has anyone given up on a book that others thought was a winner but they just couldn’t make it work? #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | gregpincus: | @BonnieAdamson I have given up on projects for many reasons. But I think I’m always secretly hoping for a way to “save” them. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | WendySparrow: | RT @elanaroth: @Shelltex Yes. If I can’t think of 3 editors who will want to see it, it’s probably too specific of a taste. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | jennymckmoss: | RT @TaraLazar: A book you give up on isnt a waste. It helped you learn how to write the next book better. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | cjomololu: | I spent a year writing a book that my agent looked at and said she couldn’t sell. Spent 3 months on the next one that did. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | bonnieadamson: | @srjohannes See, those are the ones I never finish. The ones I finish, I always have hopes for. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | gregpincus: | @Tiare75 Yes. I’m always convinced of awesomosity. I am not always right |
| 1:26 am | elanaroth: | @WendySparrow When a writer has it, I don’t give up after Book 1. The market is too shifty sometimes. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | tia_bowman: | RT @TaraLazar: A book you give up on isnt a waste. It helped you learn how to write the next book better. #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | TheAsianAngel: | That’s a great voice to have too! RT @tia_bowman: @TheAsianAngel My inner narrator’s voice is Jim Dale. ^_^ #kidlitchat |
| 1:26 am | Natalie_Fischer: | @gregpincus Ah, sorry! It was wonderfully said. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | HeidiRKling: | Reactions from crit members are a sign if something will sell. Also, eyes of people when you deliver your pitch. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | TaraLazar: | @j_ro333 This agent said he liked it, but it didn’t feel unique enough. I revised. Next agent I sent it to offered! #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | ErinDealey: | Yes! We have to want prot to win. @EgmontGal Plot and character –do I root for protagonist?–are what get me to love it, though #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | adamselzer: | @sandyfussell four main ones. A couple others got a short chapter each. There were so many ways to tell that one… #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | sandyfussell: | You never know when you will go back to a book once given up on and find a new life or perspective for it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | the_familiars: | No piece of finished material ever dies. But you have to know when to cut your losses and move on to the next one. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | onbeyondwords: | @WendySparrow Right – you get too close. I abandoned one novel to start a new YA idea. Want to finish the 1st one at some point. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | EgmontGal: | @adamselzer yeah, that’s what I was saying. Kaufman and Hart et al. set up their plays with the first act. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | LiaKeyes: | RT @elanaroth: @WendySparrow When a writer has it, I dont give up after Book 1. The market is too shifty sometimes. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | LauraRenegar: | RT @taralazar: A book you give up on isn’t a waste. It helped you learn how to write the next book better. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | Becky_Levine: | RT @sandyfussell: You never know when you will go back to a book once given up on and find a new life or perspective for it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:27 am | marcie8: | Me too @BonnieAdamson But do you ever REALLY give up on a book? I always think I can save it, even if put aside for later #kidlitchat |
| 1:28 am | jafhedlund: | No writing is ever wasted. Even when we “kill our babies,” they served a purpose. #kidlitchat |
| 1:28 am | 4KidLit: | RT @the_familiars: No piece of finished material ever dies. But you have to know when to cut your losses and move on to the next one. #kidlitchat |
| 1:28 am | authorViviAnna: | @LiaKeyes yup, I had this concept that I knew was killer and would sell, and my agent loved it, but I just couldn’t make it work #kidlitchat |
| 1:28 am | tia_bowman: | @LiaKeyes Many times… But usually I give up on it before I write too much. It’s pretty obvious @ th start it’s not gonna work. #kidlitchat |
| 1:28 am | ErinDealey: | Hey everyone (speaking of if it’s a winner) @HeidiRKling ‘s SEA is due to launch June 12th. Just sayin… #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | TaraLazar: | Yes, @BonnieAdamson, I’ve truly given up on some early picture books. I know I’m a better writer now, with better topics/themes. #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | patricemichelle: | Yes, time away from a story that wasn’t working before brings on a whole new perspective when you go back to it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | onbeyondwords: | @sandyfussell I’m counting on going back to some earlier novels I shelved for other things. I hope a new perspective will help. #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | RebeccAgent: | Hi all. Joining late #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | elanaroth: | I’ve passed on AMAZING concepts. But the characters/voice didn’t have it. That freakin’ sucks. #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | WendySparrow: | @onbeyondwords Yes. I have a hard time revising deeply a manuscript I just finished or taking criticism. Still my pretty baby. #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | jennymckmoss: | My 1st ms: I had many critiques. Complimentary but everyone had diff & contradictory opinions re its issues. Finally I set aside #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | EgmontGal: | I know that my new follower @Auto_auctions will be pleased to learn that Arcadia is my fave contemp play #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | jennymckmoss: | @RebeccAgent Good evening! #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | RebeccAgent: | I know I have a winner when I think. That’s why I’ve rejected everything else, because I was waiting to find this! #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | AudryT: | @tia_bowman Did you consider co-authoring the concept when you found you couldn’t do it yourself? #kidlitchat |
| 1:29 am | lyonmartin: | @RebeccAgent Hi. |
| 1:29 am | KarlaKT: | @HeidiRKling Keeps me from giving up—the “lighted smile” factor. #kidlitchat |
| 1:30 am | HeidiRKling: | @ErinDealey LOL–thanks, Erin! #kidlitchat |
| 1:30 am | j_ro333: | #kidlitchat I keep everything. There’ve been many times when I’ve used a scene/dialogue/even a character elsewhere. |
| 1:30 am | AudryT: | @elanaroth As they say, ideas are nothing; execution is everything. #kidlitchat |
| 1:30 am | TheAsianAngel: | Some stories are Do Not Resuscitate. If you bring them back, it’s like raising the dead, complete with foul stench. #kidlitchat |
| 1:30 am | WendySparrow: | @onbeyondwords 6 months later it feels more like a sweet-looking cousin who you can tell is dressed funny and hair is too short #kidlitchat |
| 1:30 am | j_ro333: | #kidlitchat I’ve even crossed over using stuff that didn’t work in a book and put it in a movie and vice versatile. |
| 1:31 am | ErinDealey: | @RebeccAgent Like I told @jennymckmoss , they’re tweeting at warp-speed tonight thanks to @gregpincus ! #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | Becky_Levine: | RT @RebeccAgent: I know I have a winner when I think. Thats why Ive rejected everything else, ’cause I was waiting to find this! #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | thunderchikin: | RT @TheAsianAngel: Some stories are Do Not Resuscitate. If you bring them back, it’s like raising the dead, complete with foul stench. #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | cjomololu: | @RebeccAgent And that’s what every writer wants to be! #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | jennymckmoss: | I lifted a phrase out of my unsold ms and put it in a diff book – even tho I wrote it, still felt wrong. |
| 1:31 am | srjohannes: | @j_ro333 i was just about to sat that – books have died but Ive used parts. #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | adamselzer: | In any given year, I end up with 2-3 proposals and maybe one full book that get used for parts. #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | cjomololu: | @RebeccAgent And that’s what ever writer wants to be! #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | TaraLazar: | I keep everything–computers are wonderful for that! Who knows if old stories will be useful someday. If only for a laugh! #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | ErinDealey: | @HeidiRKling You go, girl. Loaf 4ever #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | elanaroth: | When I think I’ve found something, I get this “Oooh! Ooh!” reaction. Then I start gushing to friends. That’s my poker tell. #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | the_familiars: | RT @elanaroth As they say, ideas are nothing; execution is everything. –> I totally disagree. I think idea is 50% at least. #kidlitchat |
| 1:31 am | LiaKeyes: | @authorViviAnna Wow, that must have been so hard. How long did you work on it? #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | LaFabuliste: | I have passages I keep in a drawer, saving them for the right spot in an ms. #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | sandyfussell: | I love my first ever ms in my bottom drawer. I feel in time I can revisit and make it work. I’ll never give up on it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | elanaroth: | I should add: these are often friends who usually don’t give a crap. #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | RebeccAgent: | know have winner when feels like it only could have come from the brain of that writer(or illus) yet feels timeless & universal #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | EgmontGal: | @elanaroth yes. People who’ve good ideas but their writing is not up to par, and you can’t give idea to someone else. Big bummer #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | Tiare75: | @TheAsianAngel LOL! Yes, I’ve put a DNR order on my practice novel #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | tia_bowman: | @AudryT Yes! I’ve recently started collaborating more. It has led to 2 of my stories getting finished. I highly recommend it! #kidlitchat |
| 1:32 am | BookEditorLM: | RT @RebeccAgent: know have winner when feels like it only could have come from the brain of that writer(or illus) yet feels timeless & universal #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | adamselzer: | @the_familiars The Idea is very important, but one isn’t nearly enough. You need at least one good one per page. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | srjohannes: | @TaraLazar can you imagine before computers trying to keep all the papers? ugh! #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | elanaroth: | @EgmontGal OMG that’s the worst. I wish I could have passed along a few of these ideas to better writers! #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | WendySparrow: | RT @RebeccAgent: know have winner when feels like it only could have come from the brain of that writer(or illus) yet feels timeless & universal #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | onbeyondwords: | @WendySparrow Ha ha! Or maybe the goofy cousin’s hair is too long and you now have the vision to cut and restyle it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | EgmontUSA: | @elanaroth I feel that way, too. I always say I’m going to keep my mouth shut and not jinx it, but it’s so hard when I’m excited #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | TaraLazar: | Didn’t Jerry Spinelli revive EGGS after years of it sitting in a closet? He became a better writer and went back. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | Shelltex: | I took characters from a my first attempt at a novel and gave them a whole new story. They were good together. That plot wasn’t. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | j_ro333: | #kidlitchat My film producer and I have a quote we use before every meeting: Execution Dependent. |
| 1:33 am | HeidiRKling: | Wanting more-edge-of-seat reactions are positive. Boredom, checking texts while you read? Not as good. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | Becky_Levine: | Idea has to be turned into serious, active goals with concrete obstacles to create conflict. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | BookEditorLM: | RT @sandyfussell: I love my first ever ms in my bottom drawer. I feel in time I can revisit and make it work. I’ll never give up on it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | TaraLazar: | And Neil Gaiman started on the idea of THE GRAVEYARD BOOK 20 years before he wrote it. He put it away for when he became better. #kidlitchat |
| 1:33 am | TheAsianAngel: | @Tiare75 Those are the “cadavers” you dissect and examine to see what went wrong. #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | EgmontGal: | @elanaroth is so right. when we rush in to tell our colleagues about it, very very good sign #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | ErinDealey: | @EgmontGal @elanaroth so good idea+ voice + care abt char + chills + don’t want to watch #Glee? #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | WendySparrow: | @onbeyondwords Exactly… you know where to trim the excess without ruining the personality or the concept. Perspective. #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | jennymckmoss: | Interesting RT @EgmontGal @elanaroth People who’ve good ideas but writing isnt up to par & u can’t give idea 2 someone else #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | kdueykduey: | @Shelltex I wonder if you had to write the first novel to get to know the characters…#kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | AudryT: | There you go. RT@j_ro333: #kidlitchat My film producer and I have a quote we use before every meeting: Execution Dependent. #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | the_familiars: | @adamselzer True you should have wonderful ideas on every page… but it starts with one big concept/hook to sell the book. #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | ErinDealey: | @TaraLazar 20 years? That makes me feel better. : ) #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | lyonmartin: | @srjohannes I did keep all those papers. And all the sketches, too. #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | janiceharayda: | Hi, all. I’ve heard many editors say they know they have a winner by the end of the first page, if not the first line … #kidlitchat #books |
| 1:34 am | HeidiRKling: | @ErinDealey *fistbump* #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | Becky_Levine: | And every author’s dream! RT @EgmontGal: @elanaroth is right. when we rush in to tell colleagues about it, very very good sign #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | Natalie_Fischer: | I love a winner; I sell a marketable book. It sucks when they aren’t the same. #kidlitchat |
| 1:34 am | srjohannes: | @EgmontGal what do you do with the ones you are on the fence about? you love them but they are not 100% there. #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | EgmontGal: | @EgmontUSA is very cute when excited by a ms. I can tell she’s trying to contain herself so she won’t be disappointed if we pass #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | AudryT: | @TaraLazar I have an idea I put away until I’m better. Probably 30-40 years better. #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | j_ro333: | I felt this way about The Matrix. RT @elanaroth People who’ve good ideas but writing is not up to par, and you can’t give idea.. #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | HeidiRKling: | @KarlaKT Seriously. And the parts where they look bored? Cut them. I slaughter words left and right now. #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | kellyhashway: | @TaraLazar Didn’t it also come from a short story he wrote earlier? #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | WendySparrow: | RT @Natalie_Fischer: I love a winner; I sell a marketable book. It sucks when they aren’t the same. #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | bonnieadamson: | @TaraLazar Ta da! See? never give up on a ms. It can morph into something better when YOU’RE better. RT Neil Gaiman & Graveyard #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | deegarretson: | sometimes you can’t see what’s wrong with one manuscript until you write the next one #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | jafhedlund: | I write PBs, but I have an idea for a novel but I’m afraid to write it b/c so many people say your first novel is for “practice” #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | TaraLazar: | An agent who was excited about my ms sent an email hours later and called the next day, an hour earlier than he said he would. #kidlitchat |
| 1:35 am | AudryT: | Hooks are overrated, IMO. There are fantastic books out there that don’t start with a hook. #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | cjomololu: | @the_familiars Hooks help. I got as far as: “It’s about a girl whose mother is a hoarder..” b4 agent was all in. #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | jafhedlund: | but I love the idea and I don’t want it to be my practice one. Maybe I should write another one first – lol #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | Shelltex: | @kdueykduey Probably so. Only got about halfway through first time before that story died. But I was in love with those kids. #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | EgmontGal: | @WendySparrow As Liza Minelli sang, “everybody loves a winner…” #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | tia_bowman: | Sometimes waiting is the best thing you can do. Let the story flesh itself out, and it will always end up better. #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | bonnieadamson: | @TaraLazar Wow–THAT’s validation! #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | TaraLazar: | @jafhedlund But if you don’t write the first one, you’ll never have ONE, period! (Write away! Right away!) #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | Becky_Levine: | @jafhedlund But if you don’t do the practice, you’ll miss the chance to move on to Book 2! |
| 1:36 am | j_ro333: | Marketable always wins. RT @Natalie_Fischer: I love a winner; I sell a marketable book. It sucks when they aren’t the same. #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | VBTremper: | @EgmontUSA Good to know writers aren’t the only ones who worry about jinxing. #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | MaricarMac: | keeping this in mind RT @adamselzer The Idea is very important, but 1 isn’t nearly enough. You need at least 1 good 1 per page #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | gregpincus: | @jafhedlund Then just pretend it’s your second one! #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | onbeyondwords: | RT @RebeccAgent a winner seems it only could have come from the brain of that writer(or illus) yet feels timeless & universal #kidlitchat |
| 1:36 am | elanaroth: | @AudryT A hook is just as simple as knowing where your story is. So many writers don’t even know that. #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | EgmontGal: | @cjomololu A hoarding book! We’ve been looking for one. But just because we like the hook, we still have to like the ms too #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | the_familiars: | @AudryT If I were to give advice to first time writer, I think they have a better chance getting foot in door with big hook. #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | WriterRoss: | RT @gregpincus: @jafhedlund Then just pretend its your second one! #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | deegarretson: | @cjomololu agree-it was the hook that got me in the door #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | jafhedlund: | @TaraLazar @gregpincus Good advice. Never have one if you don’t write one. Pretend it’s second one. #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | WendySparrow: | @Natalie_Fischer @elanaroth What % of agents help with editing before pitching? I thought all did, but that’s not true, right? #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | bonnieadamson: | @jafhedlund Write it; then rewrite it & call it Number 2! #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | KarlaKT: | @HeidiRKling Amen…can’t get too attached to the “pretties.” Can’t wait until summer when I can write full-time… #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | patricemichelle: | RE: Agents excited about a project. It only takes one YES to get you one step further, hopefully to an editor who says yes too. #kidlitchat |
| 1:37 am | bonnieadamson: | RT @elanaroth: @AudryT A hook is just as simple as knowing where your story is. So many writers dont even know that. #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | tia_bowman: | @adamselzer So true! You need more than one good idea for a novel, otherwise it ends up flat. #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | Becky_Levine: | @jafhedlund Or go in “knowing” that you are going to be the exception that proves the rule! #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | MaricarMac: | RT @Becky_Levine Idea has to be turned into serious, active goals with concrete obstacles to create conflict. #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | BookEditorLM: | RT @WendySparrow: @Natalie_Fischer @elanaroth What % of agents help with editing before pitching? I thought all did, but that’s not true, right? #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | hpinski: | Or three…or four? RT @bonnieadamson: @jafhedlund Write it; then rewrite it & call it Number 2! #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | cjomololu: | @EgmontGal True. My book is out- Dirty Little Secrets. But I’d love to see more on the subject… #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | sandyfussell: | @jafhedlund Maybe it will be practice. Maybe not. Just write it and find out. A good idea will demand to be written anyway #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | AudryT: | @the_familiars My advice to a first-time writer would be to focus on improving their writing. Hooks can suck, too. #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | HeidiRKling: | @KarlaKT Oh, I leave all my pretties in. I just got the crappy stuff. LOL #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | TheAsianAngel: | The hook is what differentiates your story from everything else along a similar vein. #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | EgmontGal: | @the_familiars Not sure I agree. Advice to 1st time writer, big hook? Prefer great characters + writing + hope other can follow #kidlitchat |
| 1:38 am | Becky_Levine: | @MaricarMac Thanks for the RT. |
| 1:38 am | cjomololu: | @deegarretson A good hook is awesome, as long as you can back it up. #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | jennymckmoss: | Agents&Editors: If u get ms w/ character/plot issues but u see something in the writing that intrigues you, how do you respond? #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | Natalie_Fischer: | @WendySparrow Varies; hard to give %. A lot do, but it varies to what extent too! #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | WendySparrow: | @EgmontGal My daughter is a hoarder (clinical) as was my grandfather. I’ve had several writers asking me advice.They’re coming #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | elanaroth: | I think I missed a tweet or two…if I missed a question, ask me again. #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | LaFabuliste: | Yes! The 30-second blurb that makes me buy IT instead of the other. #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | LiaKeyes: | I feel like I’ve written four books instead of one, because it has morphed so dramatically each time I edited it #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | EgmontGal: | @cjomololu Thanks for reminding me, I have been wanting to read your book. sounds right up my alley! #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | ErinDealey: | Last Feb. at SCBWI Golden Gate Sarah Davies (Greenhouse lit) said hook=kernel of the story. Ken Wright said,”You cry, you buy.” #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | CarolTanzman: | @Asian Angel but sometimes a “hook” is just a good log line. #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | kdueykduey: | @EgmontGal I have a hoarding themed thing…but just in the notes and wishes stage.The topic/premise could be amazing, I think. #kidlitchat |
| 1:39 am | RebeccAgent: | I know I have a winner when I read the MS and think “this is a real writer” #kidlitchat |
| 1:40 am | deegarretson: | @elanaroth yes, it’s frustrating trying to help new writers when they can’t pull out the essence of the story #kidlitchat |
| 1:40 am | j_ro333: | @lyonmartin #kidlitchat No biggie I’m hard on myself and keep chopping until it’s right. Good thing, really. |
| 1:40 am | sandyfussell: | To me the hook comes from the story. It’s a natural derivative not something I agonise over constructing #kidlitchat |
| 1:40 am | cjomololu: | @EgmontGal Sorry! Wasn’t trying to pitch. Don’t read while eating is my best advice |
| 1:40 am | EgmontGal: | @srjohannes If we can “see” the book and know we can help writer get there, we buy. We are editors, after all #kidlitchat |
| 1:40 am | Becky_Levine: | Me–I laugh, I buy. RT @ErinDealey: At SCBWI GG Sarah Davies said hook=kernel of the story. Ken Wright said,”You cry, you buy.” #kidlitchat |
| 1:40 am | tia_bowman: | What is considered a ‘hook’? Are the blurbs on the back of a book/inside cover considered good examples of hooks? #kidlitchat |
| 1:40 am | lyonmartin: | I think I need more kidlit TV shows. Blood guts and gore are freek’n me out. #kidlitchat |
| 1:40 am | the_familiars: | @AudryT @EdgmontGal If you have 50 MS in a pile on your desk with cover letters, wouldn’t you read the one with best idea first? #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | BookEditorLM: | RT @EgmontGal: @srjohannes If we can “see” the book and know we can help writer get there, we buy. We are editors, after all #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | gregpincus: | @kdueykduey @EgmontGal I have thousands of hoarding ideas, but still gathering more. Is that a problem? #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | jennymckmoss: | I have this response as a reader RT @RebeccAgent: I know I have a winner when I read the MS and think “this is a real writer” #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | LaFabuliste: | Should the hook be related to what first “hooked” me about the idea? That flash image that made me want to write. #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | ErinDealey: | Also at SCBWI Golden Gate, besides @gregpincus, ed Tracy Gates (Viking) Hook=”If you miss your subway stop.” #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | BookEditorLM: | RT @RebeccAgent: I know I have a winner when I read the MS and think “this is a real writer” #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | kdueykduey: | @Shelltex The characters are always the hub for me, even though I often write fantasy. #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | the_familiars: | RT @gregpincus: @kdueykduey @EgmontGal I have thousands of hoarding ideas, but still gathering more. Is that a problem? #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | srjohannes: | that was laugh out loud hilarious.RT @EgmontGal I have thousands of hoarding ideas, but still gathering more. Is that a problem? #kidlitchat |
| 1:41 am | emilytastic: | Hello! I am late! And all overexcited from allergy pills. WHAT IS UP? #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | CarolTanzman: | Yay!RT @EgmontGal: @srjohannes If we can “see” the book and know we can help writer get there, we buy. We are editors, after all #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | cjomololu: | @gregpincus He’ll be here all week folks! #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | j_ro333: | @taralazar #kidlitchat 1 Guy said he expected it to sell within the next year or so, but it wasn’t for him.I was repped about 4 weeks later |
| 1:42 am | goldenwordsmith: | RT @LiaKeyes: I feel like I’ve written four books instead of one, because it has morphed so dramatically each time I edited it #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | TheAsianAngel: | Right, but there’s a twist in it that makes it different! RT @CarolTanzman: but sometimes a “hook” is just a good log line. #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | WendySparrow: | RT @gregpincus: @kdueykduey @EgmontGal I have thousands of hoarding ideas, but still gathering more. Is that a problem? #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | kdueykduey: | @gregpincus Oh, Greg, how I love you….#kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | ErinDealey: | @emilytastic overexcited from allergy pills *You’ll fit right in! ; ) #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | sandyfussell: | Wonder too RT @tia_bowman: What is considered a hook? Are blurbs on back of a book/inside cover considered good egs of hooks? #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | RebeccAgent: | my asst famously sat at end of train line 15 min after car cleared reading @triciarayburn‘s SIREN ms #kidlitchat |
| 1:42 am | elanaroth: | Just to add, whether I edit has nothing to do with thinking I’ve found “it”. I edit anyway. “It” is never perfect. #kidlitchat |
| 1:43 am | BookEditorLM: | RT @LiaKeyes: I feel like I’ve written four books instead of one, because it has morphed so dramatically each time I edited it #kidlitchat |
| 1:43 am | j_ro333: | @taralazar #kidlitchat Never understand someone thinking a product can sell and not wantingto be a part of that.Guess I’m a businessman 1st |
| 1:43 am | WendySparrow: | @gregpincus LOL. RE: hoarding ideas… just don’t let them get stinky. ; ) #kidlitchat |
| 1:43 am | goldenwordsmith: | RT @EgmontGal: @the_familiars Not sure I agree. Advice to 1st time writer, big hook? Prefer great characters + writing + hope other can follow #kidlitchat |
| 1:43 am | jennymckmoss: | RT @elanaroth: Just to add, whether I edit has nothing to do with thinking Ive found “it”. I edit anyway. “It” is never perfect. #kidlitchat |
| 1:43 am | sandyfussell: | Me too. Characters key. RT @kdueykduey: @Shelltex The characters are always the hub for me, even though I often write fantasy. #kidlitchat |
| 1:43 am | PaulWHankins: | @EgmontGal Out of lurk mode for just a second. The INcK has loved Ditry Little Secrets by @cjomololu. Great read. #kidlitchat |
| 1:43 am | ImaginingLily: | @ErinDealey Oooooh I like that “You cry, you buy” stuff. (Ken Wright) #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | Sascha_Zuger: | @EgmontGal I have 482 copies or so of @cjomololu ‘s book stacked in my back room if you want to borrow one. #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | cjomololu: | @PaulWHankins Aw Paul. You’re the winner! #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | the_familiars: | @sandyfussell @tia_bowman Absolutely, yes. If you can pitch your idea in similar fashion, you are farther along than most (IMO) #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | TheScribesDesk: | RT @EgmontGal: @the_familiars Not sure I agree. Advice to 1st time writer, big hook? Prefer great characters + writing + hope other can follow #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | CarolTanzman: | Yes, excellent point. RT @TheAsianAngel: Right, but theres a twist in it that makes it different! #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | EgmontGal: | @Sascha_Zuger yes, i’d love to borrow it! #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | gregpincus: | Agreed! RT @PaulWHankins: The INcK has loved Ditry Little Secrets by @cjomololu. Great read. #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | HeidiRKling: | RT @PaulWHankins: @EgmontGal Out of lurk mode for just a second. The INcK has loved Ditry Little Secrets by @cjomololu. Great read. #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | RebeccAgent: | the proposal for Matt Phelan’s 3rd gn made me cry. Not b/c it was sad… b/c it’s just so freakin good #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | lyonmartin: | I know I have a winner if my book isn’t like any of the ones I read. WIP Not quite there yet. Still looking for the “new” 4 it. #kidlitchat |
| 1:44 am | cjomololu: | @Sascha_Zuger Good to see you’re purging. #kidlitchat |
| 1:45 am | onbeyondwords: | @ErinDealey Crying is a good sign. Laughing isn’t bad either. #kidlitchat |
| 1:45 am | mrswritebrain: | #kidlitchat Jumping in late. Is the topic hoarding, hooks or both? |
| 1:45 am | EgmontGal: | RT @gregpincus: @kdueykduey @EgmontGal I have thousands of hoarding ideas, but still gathering more. Is that a problem? #kidlitchat |
| 1:45 am | TaraLazar: | @j_ro333 I think it boils down to passion. You can like something, recognize its merits, but not feel passionate enough to SELL. #kidlitchat |
| 1:45 am | bonnieadamson: | @mrswritebrain TOPIC: What tells you that you?ve written a winner (or found one to acquire)? Voice? Hook? Character? #kidlitchat #kidlitchat |
| 1:45 am | emilytastic: | @ErinDealey Haha, yes. I’m normally a very talkative/jumpy/exciteable type, but I’m extra-ly so this evening! #kidlitchat |
| 1:45 am | cjomololu: | @onbeyondwords Laughing isn’t great if you don’t intend it to be funny. #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | gregpincus: | It’s interesting that from all sides knowing a “winner” is more of an emotional reaction than anything else #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | AudryT: | Topic is knowing when you have a winner. #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | EgmontGal: | @RebeccAgent yes, the “I missed my subway stop” sign is a very, very good one. And it means I end up in Queens. #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | hpinski: | Great characters, plot et al, then you have a great hook, no? #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | TheAsianAngel: | Haha! Good point. RT @cjomololu: @onbeyondwords Laughing isnt great if you don’t intend it to be funny. #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | ErinDealey: | @onbeyondwords In theater you learn to suck them in with laughter and keep them there with tears. #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | Becky_Levine: | @gregpincus And the magic is managing to evoke that emotional reaction. #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | debbieohi: | RT @gregpincus: It’s interesting that from all sides knowing a “winner” is more of an emotional reaction than anything else. #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | Natalie_Fischer: | Also to add, sometimes I edit b/c I’m on the fence and want to see if it gets better/writer takes direction well #kidlitchat |
| 1:46 am | WriterRoss: | @cjomololu She said she can borrow the bk. She wants it back. ;> (An obsessed hoarder never gives away anything.) #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | emilytastic: | @EgmontGal @kdueykduey @gregpincus My mom called a few wks & said she thinks I’m a secret hoarder. I’m going to write THAT book. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | cjomololu: | “Winner” doesn’t always translate into ‘bestseller’. Some of the best books are under the radar. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | LiaKeyes: | RT @gregpincus: Its interesting that from all sides knowing a “winner” is more of an emotional reaction than anything else #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | kdueykduey: | RE hoarding: Holly Black’s The White Cat has that element, and a fabulous premise overlayered–a wonderful book. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | elanaroth: | Anything I’ve signed, I’ve read almost straight through without stopping. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | PattyJMurphy: | RT @EgmontGal: @RebeccAgent yes, the “I missed my subway stop” sign is a very, very good one. And it means I end up in Queens. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | patricemichelle: | Seems a “winner” aspect all comes down to connection – whatever that entails for the reader and the writer. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | sandyfussell: | RT @cjomololu: “Winner” doesn’t always translate into ‘bestseller’. Some of the best books are under the radar. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | deegarretson: | @hpinski in my case, I start with the hook and then the characters develop from that. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | debbieohi: | Sorry, have to multitask during this chat (workstuff). Looking forward to reading the transcript! #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | lyonmartin: | @EgmontGal If I missed my stop I ended up in the Bronx. Did it once, was careful not to repeat THAT. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | MissCackle: | Always the case? @gregpincus … knowing a “winner” is more of an emotional reaction than anything else #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | onbeyondwords: | @cjomololu Probably not – but if humor was intended – it’s a great way to make characters endearing. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | j_ro333: | Then it’s almost ready |
| 1:47 am | CarolTanzman: | not always sure about a winner when I write. RT @gregpincus: knowing a “winner” is more of an emotional reaction #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | EgmontGal: | When I was preteen, I liked heavy subjects in YA cause I found them glamorous.I like hoarders because I feel better ’bout myself #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | JessicaLeader: | @ErinDealey Ooh! I knew theatre was good for something! #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | tia_bowman: | Awesome example! RT @ErinDealey In theater you learn to suck them in with laughter and keep them there with tears. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | HeidiRKling: | RT @cjomololu: “Winner” doesn’t always translate into ‘bestseller’. Some of the best books are under the radar. #kidlitchat |
| 1:47 am | Irisheyz77: | RT @cjomololu: “Winner” doesn’t always translate into ‘bestseller’. Some of the best books are under the radar. #kidlitchat |
| 1:48 am | hpinski: | RT @cjomololu: “Winner” doesnt always translate into bestseller. Some of the best books are under the radar. #kidlitchat |
| 1:48 am | LiaKeyes: | @kdueykduey I’ve heard a lot of great things about Holly Black’s WHITE CAT. Must get a copy… #kidlitchat |
| 1:48 am | AudryT: | When I was picking manga, I felt I had a winner when the art style, pacing, premise, character design & humor hit the sweet spot #kidlitchat |
| 1:48 am | cjomololu: | @EgmontGal That’s why I watch Toddlers and Tiaras. Instant “good mother” feeling. #kidlitchat |
| 1:48 am | jafhedlund: | Andrea Brown said at Big Sur in the Rockies this weekend: “If you make me laugh or cry, I’ll sell it, if you make me do both… #kidlitchat |
| 1:48 am | gregpincus: | @misscackle Probably not always the case. But that reaction is in our control whereas knowing we’ll “sell gobs” is not. #kidlitchat |
| 1:48 am | jafhedlund: | I’ll put it up for auction.” (Andrea Brown) #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | kdueykduey: | @gregpincus for me, there is a little click, like something sliding into place, and I know it’s done–or very close. #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | leira_carola: | RT @RebeccAgent: know have winner when feels like it only could have come from the brain of that writer(or illus) yet feels timeless & universal #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | LiaKeyes: | @j_ro333 Ha! Let’s hope so! I’ve promised it to my agent by June 24th… #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | WendySparrow: | RT @elanaroth: Anything I’ve signed, I’ve read almost straight through without stopping. #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | ErinDealey: | @JessicaLeader Theater’s good for lots of things–including school visits after the winner is pubbed! #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | deegarretson: | @cjomololu LOL! I never thought about it, but that’s so true! #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | EgmontGal: | @cjomololu I am drawn to “Sober House” for the same reason. Makes problems of too many YA paranormals seem sooooo small #kidlitchat |
| 1:49 am | jennymckmoss: | @kdueykduey Can I borrow that little click? |
| 1:50 am | cjomololu: | @EgmontGal God bless ‘reality’ TV. #kidlitchat |
| 1:50 am | onbeyondwords: | Great strategy RT @ErinDealey – suck them in with laughter keep them there with tears #kidlitchat |
| 1:50 am | Natalie_Fischer: | winner=subjective imo #kidlitchat |
| 1:50 am | kdueykduey: | @LiaKeyes I got to read it in ms (she read mine, incredibly helpful) and I LOVED it. Holly is a really precise writer. #kidlitchat |
| 1:50 am | gregpincus: | RT @kdueykduey: for me, there is a little click, like something sliding into place, and I know it’s done–or very close. #kidlitchat |
| 1:50 am | srjohannes: | RT @jafhedlund: Andrea Brown said at Big Sur “If u make me laugh or cry, Ill sell it, if u do both…i’ll sell it at auction!” #kidlitchat |
| 1:50 am | LiaKeyes: | RT @EgmontGal: @cjomololu I’m drawn to “Sober House” for same reason. Makes problems of too many YA paranormals seem soooo small #kidlitchat |
| 1:51 am | adamselzer: | @EgmontGal eh, NO ONE has problems like YA paranormals. No “real” person has a problem that won’t be over for em in 90 years. #kidlitchat |
| 1:51 am | kdueykduey: | @jennymckmoss Yes, the click is freeware…..#kidlitchat |
| 1:51 am | Sascha_Zuger: | @EgmontGal I tivo it to watch while I pack. #kidlitchat |
| 1:51 am | j_ro333: | @taralazar #kidlitchat Like I said- I’m all business.I’m passionate about anything if I think it’s gonna sell.Hell-I’d have repped Dan Brown |
| 1:51 am | jennymckmoss: | @kdueykduey |
| 1:51 am | sandyfussell: | I feel like it’s a winner when I get really good feedback from kids who borrowed it from the library #kidlitchat |
| 1:51 am | LiaKeyes: | @kdueykduey Do you think Holly Black’s precision as a writer is born of experience? Or was she always that way? #kidlitchat |
| 1:52 am | onbeyondwords: | @sandyfussell I have a similar first manuscript-in-waiting. I imagine many of us do. #kidlitchat |
| 1:52 am | Becky_Levine: | Off to download now. RT @kdueykduey: @jennymckmoss Yes, the click is freeware…..#kidlitchat #kidlitchat |
| 1:52 am | j_ro333: | RT @srjohannes: RT @jafhedlund: Andrea Brown said at Big Sur “If u make me laugh or cry, Ill sell it, if u do both…i’ll sell it at auction!” #kidlitchat |
| 1:52 am | ErinDealey: | Sign me up! @kdueykduey @jennymckmoss Yes, the click is freeware….. #kidlitchat |
| 1:52 am | cjomololu: | Dang it. Chatting + cooking = smoke detectors screaming. #kidlitchat |
| 1:52 am | PaulWHankins: | @JessicaLeader I’ll ask here as I know you won’t say no. Can we get you back @ SCHS in fall to pitch/give away Nice and Mean? #kidlitchat |
| 1:53 am | TaraLazar: | @j_ro333 I think you have a potential career replacing Billy Mays! #kidlitchat |
| 1:53 am | jennymckmoss: | @cjomololu Oh, no! #kidlitchat |
| 1:53 am | Sarahbear9789: | RT @cjomololu: “Winner” doesn’t always translate into ‘bestseller’. Some of the best books are under the radar. #kidlitchat |
| 1:53 am | sandyfussell: | @onbeyondwords first-love, first-kiss, first-manuscript. *grin* Some things you never forget #kidlitchat |
| 1:53 am | ErinDealey: | @cjomololu Hope you don’t have a house crammed with flammable stuff. ; ) jk #kidlitchat |
| 1:53 am | Tiare75: | @cjomololu LOL! Maybe kidlitchat night = sandwiches for dinner? #kidlitchat #Kidlitchat |
| 1:54 am | kdueykduey: | @adamselzer Adam—brilliantly said. I have a few extended life characters–one is isolated and so SO! alone. #kidlitchat |
| 1:54 am | CarolTanzman: | off topic. will anyone here be at NYC’ls Jeff. Mkt. Library YA author meet on Mon. 5/24? I will be visiting from L.A. #kidlitchat |
| 1:54 am | amberjkeyser: | When reading a book I love, I don’t want it to end. When it does, I keep rolling it over and over in my head. #kidlitchat |
| 1:54 am | elanaroth: | @cjomololu I have intentionally not replaced the batteries in my smoke detector for this reason. #kidlitchat |
| 1:54 am | onbeyondwords: | @j_ro333 Great Andrea Brown quote. Envy you attending Big Sur. #kidlitchat |
| 1:54 am | cjomololu: | @ErinDealey Ha! No visible flames. But I didn’t notice the smoke until now. #kidlitchat |
| 1:55 am | cjomololu: | @elanaroth I’ll have to try that next week. #kidlitchat |
| 1:55 am | CarolTanzman: | Me, too!RT @amberjkeyser: When reading a book I love, I dont want it to end. When it does, I keep rolling it over in my head. #kidlitchat |
| 1:55 am | adamselzer: | @kdueykduey And it’ll only get worse when the sun swallows the earth and they’re just floating in space! #kidlitchat |
| 1:55 am | LiaKeyes: | RT @kdueykduey: @gregpincus 4 me, there is a little click, like something sliding into place, & I know its done–or very close. #kidlitchat |
| 1:55 am | WriterRoss: | @elanaroth Sheds new light on calling a mss “a book to die for.” #kidlitchat |
| 1:55 am | ErinDealey: | @cjomololu Do NOT use the Merlot to douse flames… #kidlitchat |
| 1:55 am | amberjkeyser: | Or like @EgmontGal I re-read. #kidlitchat |
| 1:56 am | onbeyondwords: | @sandyfussell Haha – absolutely. #kidlitchat |
| 1:56 am | kdueykduey: | @misscackle I share that. They pry it out of my hands. I could polish forevereverever #kidlitchat |
| 1:56 am | jafhedlund: | Yes, Big Sur was amazing – highly recommend it, in either Big Sur or the Rockies! #kidlitchat |
| 1:56 am | MissCackle: | @gregpincus @kdueykduey Gah! I never feel like it’s done! I would edit forever were it not for deadlines! #kidlitchat |
| 1:56 am | EbonyMcKenna: | have loved reading the chats on #kidlitchat |
| 1:57 am | CarolTanzman: | RT @MissCackle: @gregpincus @kdueykduey Gah! I never feel like its done! I would edit forever were it not for deadlines! #kidlitchat |
| 1:57 am | AudryT: | I had an idea once that started with a great hook, but in order to write a great book, I has to toss the hook. Fine with me. #kidlitchat |
| 1:57 am | yachicka: | enjoyed following tonight! must get back to revisions if i ever hope to finish #amrevising #amwriting #kidlitchat |
| 1:57 am | amberjkeyser: | This was my first #kidlitchat. Thanks everyone for a great conversation. |
| 1:57 am | kdueykduey: | @adamselzer I don’t envy you the freefloat. Mine are in an old city, lots of motion, politics, immigrants, etc. #kidlitchat |
| 1:57 am | Shelltex: | @jafhedlund I second that envy and also love the AB quote. #kidlitchat |
| 1:58 am | bonnieadamson: | @amberjkeyser Glad you could stop by–come back again! |
| 1:58 am | WendySparrow: | @elanaroth Do you expect writers to resubmit different mss (6 months or year later) or do you only want that when requested? #kidlitchat |
| 1:58 am | hpinski: | @yachicka You can do it, chicka! #kidlitchat |
| 1:58 am | EbonyMcKenna: | #kidlitchat – if it feels ‘real’ to me, no matter how bizarre the premise. |
| 1:58 am | ErinDealey: | Shameless plug.You gotta have a hook: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYqMA2mPG7I #kidlitchat |
| 1:58 am | gregpincus: | @amberjkeyser Thanks for joining in! #kidlitchat |
| 1:58 am | sandyfussell: | @MissCackle Thank goodness for editors. Or I would never stop fiddling with the words and move on. I could revise forever. #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | kellyhashway: | Tonight’s topic makes me want to go spend some time with my new manuscript. My MC is in my head again. Great chat everyone! #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | elanaroth: | @WendySparrow I’m not sure I understand the question… #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | kdueykduey: | People are leaving to go work…being a good example for me…I will try to come earlier next time. #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | onbeyondwords: | @kdueykduey I was a newspaper editor – basically an editing junkie. For me, the struggle is getting the first draft completed. #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | hpinski: | Night all. My ARC of PARANORMALCY is calling. #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | LiaKeyes: | I know I’m reading a winner when the ideas, character and world feel more real than the real world, even when I’m not reading #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | WriterRoss: | Sparks Fly. Lights go off in my head. Asking myself “Did I write this?” Love the feeling of discovering myself all over again. #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | RebeccAgent: | Time for me to watch GLEE. Night all. #kidlitchat |
| 1:59 am | Becky_Levine: | I’d better head back to some research. Nice chat, everyone. #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | Tiare75: | Terrific chat! Goodnight everyone. #Kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | ImaginingLily: | @amberjkeyser Ah yes, me too. And I start reading so s-l-o-w-l-y. #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | WriterRoss: | (humming song “Hooked on a Feeling” while I type) #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | patricemichelle: | Night everyone. Great chat! #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | ErinDealey: | @RebeccAgent Lucky! I have to wait another hour! #Glee #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | amberjkeyser: | Oooh yes, @WriterRoss. Sometimes I surprise myself! #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | onbeyondwords: | Goodnight, good chat. Thank you everyone. #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | WendySparrow: | @elanaroth I’m about a year into this- I’m wondering if I’m “okay” to query agents I queried with a previous mss a year ago. #kidlitchat |
| 2:00 am | emilytastic: | Sorry I missed so much of the chat tonight! I’m super distracted at the mo. But, just FYI, I love you all! <3 #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | the_familiars: | @AudryT You are a hook hater. #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | elanaroth: | @WendySparrow Yes. You totally can. It’s a new book. #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | ErinDealey: | Thanks @gregpincus and @bonnieadamson! Ciao to all! #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | gregpincus: | Thanks to all for joining in #kidlitchat tonight. Felt like a winner, but maybe we won’t know til the transcript is up…. |
| 2:01 am | LaFabuliste: | Glee is over, so I can focus now. Where are we? #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | WendySparrow: | @elanaroth … or do you only want that if you’ve said “I’d like if you thought of me in the future” etc. #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | jafhedlund: | Another priceless Andrea Brown quote: http://wp.me/pIkHt-zw She has some real zingers. I loved her! #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | KarlaKT: | Love the aha when a new twist turns a scene I like into one that resonates #kidlitchat |
| 2:01 am | bonnieadamson: | Thanks for all the winner wisdom. This was fun. See you next week! #kidlitchat |
To go to the #kidlitchat transcript home page, please click here.


{ 1 trackback }