People often tell me at book events that they’d like to become writers. They have an idea for a story . . . “How do I start?” they ask. I’ve had
five novels and two short stories published. (The second one will be out next year) Here are my suggestions for you to start writing your book:
- Write what you know—WRONG! I was told this a million times and it’s misleading. Of course, it would be difficult for me to write, realistically, about being an astronaut. Instead, I’d recommend writing about something that fascinates you. Because if you’re excited about something you can do the necessary research to learn about it. Your excitement will carry-over to the reader and make writing your book come alive.
- Read as much as you an! Read, especially, in the genre you want to write or the kind of books you love to read. You’ll see and be able to study how other writers tell their stories. Don’t copy them, but you’ll get an idea of how to handle the characters and plots. Then, writing your book with your “own voice”—will make your writing stand out as unique.
- Write. So many potentially great writers don’t become authors because they’re waiting for inspiration, energy, great ideas, or some muse to give them motivation. I hate to discourage you, but writing is a lot like factory work: you just sit down every day and force yourself to write. Like anything else in life, writing gets better with practice. As Stephen King advised in his great book, On Writing, “give yourself permission to write a really bad first paragraph.” Good advice. Don’t worry about trying to create the best novel in the 21st century—just start writing your book.
Good luck!
