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  • August 15th, 2007
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  • On writing

How to write a book – the short honest truth

Every author I know gets asked the same question: How do you write a book?

It’s a simple question, but it causes unexpected problems. On the one hand, it’s nice to have people interested in something I do. If I told people I fixed toasters for a living, I doubt I’d get many inquires. People are curious about writing and that’s cool and flattering. Rock on.

But on the other hand, the hand involving people who ask because they have an inkling to do it themselves, is that writing books is a topic so old and so well trod by so many famous people that anyone who asks me, with the serious intent of discovering secret advice from my small brain and limited writing experience, is hard to take seriously.

Here’s the short honest truth: 20% of the people who ask me are hoping to hear this – Anyone can write a book. They want permission. Truth is you don’t need any. There is no license required. No test to take. Writing, as opposed to publishing, requires almost no financial or physical resources. A pen, a paper and effort are all that has been required for hundreds of years. If Voltaire and Marquis de Sade could write in prison, then you can do it in suburbia, at lunch at work, or after your kids go to sleep.

If you want to write, kill the magic: a book is just a bunch of writing. Anyone can write a book. It might suck or be incomprehensible, but so what: it’s still a book. Nothing is stopping you right now from collecting all of your elementary school book reports, or drunken napkin scribbles, binding them together at kinkos for $20, slapping a title on the cover, and qualifying as an author. Want to write a good book? Ok, but get in line since most pro authors are still trying to figure that out too.

Writing a good book, compared to a bad one, involves one thing. Work. No one wants to hear this, but if you take two books off any shelf, I’ll bet my pants the author of the better book worked harder than the author of the other one. Call it effort, study, practice, whatever. Sure there are tricks here and there, but really writing is a kind of work.

Getting published. 30% of the time the real thing people are asking is how do you find a publisher. As if there wasn’t a phone book or, say, an Internet-thingy where you can look this stuff up. Writers-market is literally begging to help writers find publishers. Many publishers, being positive on the whole idea of communication, put information on how to submit material on their website. And so do agents. The grand comedy of this is how few writers follow the instructions. That’s what pisses off all the editors: few writers do their homework.

The sticking point for most wanna-be published authors is, again, the work. They want to hear some secret that skips over the hard parts. Publishers are rightfully picky and they get pitched a zillion books a day. It takes effort to learn the ropes, send out smart queries, and do the research required to both craft the idea for a book, and then to propose it effectively. So while writing is a rejection prone occupation, even for the rock-stars, finding a publisher is not a mystery. In fact the whole game is self-selective: people who aren’t willing to do the leg-work of getting published are unlikely to be capable of the leg-work required to finish a decent manuscript.

But that said – it’s easier today to self-publish than ever. Really. But again, this requires work, so many prefer to keep asking writers how they got published instead of just doing it themselves.

Being famous and wealthy: Now this is the kicker. About 50% of the time the real thing people want to know is how to become a famous millionaire rock-star author dude. As if a) I qualified, b) I could explain how it happened, or c) I’d be willing to tell.

First, this assumes writing is a good way to get rich. Not sure how this one started but writing, like most creative pursuits, has always been a less than lucrative lifestyle. Even if a book sells well, the $$$$ to hour ratio will be well below your average corporate job, without the health benefits, sick days, nor the months where you can coast by without your boss noticing. These days people write books after they’re famous, not before. And if the only books you read are bestsellers, well, you have a myopic view of the publishing world. Over 100k books are published in the US annually, and few sell more than a few thousand copies, and what causes books to sell may have little to do with how good a book is. Either way, to justify the effort you’ll need reasons other than cash.

Discouraged yet? Good. Here is the upside: I love writing books. I love reading books. I love the entire notion that people can make things up in their mind and then make them real on a page, for the pleasure or utility of someone else. That’s just awesome. If you like writing, if you enjoy the bittersweetness of chasing words into sentences, then you might love writing books too, despite, or even because of, everything I said above. If so, get to work – now :)

If you were hoping for more practical advice:

UPDATE: Part 2 of ‘how to write a book’ is here, where I answer the best comments.

  • Posted Wednesday, August 15th, 2007 at 6:04 pm

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382 Responses

  • Krishna Kumar - August 15, 2007 at 8:23 pm #

  • I also feel that when writing, people really expose themselves (when it is fiction). They have to open up to their audience and through their writing, reveal themselves to others. This may be really hard for some people to do. In non-fiction, you have to make a stand and that means offending some people sometimes.

    So it takes effort, interest and courage too.


  • Ali Khan - August 16, 2007 at 1:13 am #

  • Very comprehensive and useful article indeed! I think one good indicator of do-I-have-all-the-germs-to-be-best-seller-author is to start a blog and check how many hits are you getting. It will also give good idea to prospective author what people are interested to know about, what gets ‘hit!’, what gets on top of digg.


  • Unpublished_but_better_than_you - August 16, 2007 at 4:59 am #

  • “If Voltaire and Marquis de Sade could write in prison, than you can do it in suburbia” – If you can write this without knowing the first thing about English grammar, I guess anyone CAN write. I stopped reading right there, by the way. If you can’t tell the difference between “than” and “then,” you have no business giving other people advice.

    My advice to YOU? Take this page off of the internet, look up your third-grade English teacher on classmates.com, and beg him/her to allow you to sit in on his class again for a year. Then (that’s “then,” not “THAN”) you might be qualified to pick up a keyboard.


  • David O'Neill - August 16, 2007 at 7:43 am #

  • I am an avid reader and have even managed to get a book published (a techie how-to book). However, like most aspiring writers, want I really want to do is write fiction — short stories or novels. My problem is that even though I have a two-book a week reading habit and can string together narratives fairly easily, I suck at writing dialog. I’ve tried various writing courses and online references, and of course there’s no better way to learn than just by doing, but I still seem to have a block on how to naturally weave dialog into a story.

    I’m not looking for a panacea, but any pointers to resources or advice would be much appreciated. I know that fiction may not be your focus, but I’m always looking for advice wherever I can find it.

    Thanks for the great article, by the way!


  • joe armstrong - August 16, 2007 at 8:16 am #

  • I think one problem is the lack of enthusiasm that comes in when the project is 30% complete. Starting is easy. Enthusiasm gets you going. But once you have written 30% the long grind starts.

    The end seems a long long way away. At 70% you can see the end – the enthusiasm comes back. Getting you through the middle bit is the difficult bit. That’s when it’s tempting to give up.

    I have a few ways to get through this:

    - you need a rigorous schedule – mine was “4 pages a day” – (you can have a day off but the next day you need to write 8 :-)

    - tell all your friends “I’m writing a book” don’t do it in secret – that way you can’t back out easily – challenge yourself

    - get reader feedback at an early stage (if possible) even if it’s only one reader it feels that you’re not totally wasting your time.

    Don’t worry about about spelling and typos just churn out the pages. Lot’s of people can spell well and I’m not one of them.

    Worry about content – say something Have fun – try enjoy the process – this is especially difficult in the middle period.

    /Joe


  • Scott - August 16, 2007 at 9:03 am #

  • Dear unpublished: thanks for finding the typo! Maybe next time you’ll be proud enough of what you’ve written to put your name on it? :)


  • Scott - August 16, 2007 at 9:16 am #

  • Hi David:

    On fiction – I’ve written an (unpublished) novel and I’m working on a 2nd, so I do have interests there. It’s harder to write and harder to publish, no doubt, but i can point to stuff that’s been useful. I’m even less of an expert on fiction, but it is something I’m interested in and have studied.

    The Art of Fiction, by John Gardner. Best single book on the craft of fiction I’ve found. While there are other books that give more advice or techniques, this is the book that simultaneously sharpens my writing sense and gets me psyched up because of how well Gardner writes. He does touch on dialog, but it’s not the focus of the book (I’ve never seen a book specifically on dialog that was memorable, but I’ll check my shelves).

    Anyway, I’ve had many books on writing recommended to me on writing fiction, even by other writers, but I’ve found it’s very personal – good advice, written poorly, is hard to take if the advice is on writing itself. Reading fiction can often be the best way to go – pick writers who you think are good at dialog and read them to death (David Mamet comes to mind, as does George Saunders). Playwright’s are also good bets as dialog is everything to their narratives.


  • RobKohr - August 16, 2007 at 9:18 am #

  • @Unpublished_but_better_than_you
    Lighten up. Being a good writer has nothing to do with impressing your English teacher. It is all about writing something someone is actually interested in reading.

    If this article was about “How to become an editor,” than your comment would be valid. :P


  • Norski - August 16, 2007 at 10:19 am #

  • Thanks for posting this. I appreciate the distinction you made between writing a book, and writing a book someone would want to read. (You were more polite about it.)

    Also, I plan to be back, when I’ve time to follow the links.


  • tired_of_idiots - August 16, 2007 at 11:46 am #

  • Dear Unpublished:
    In your criticism of the author, you wrote: “If you tell the difference between than and then, you have no business giving other people advice.”

    Don’t you realize that when you write a sentence using “if,” you should have a “then” somewhere in it? You should have written: “If you can’t tell the difference between “than” and “then,” THEN….

    You are a sad individual, obviously.


  • Steph - August 16, 2007 at 12:08 pm #

  • To the Author: Nice article. I enjoyed it.
    To Unpublished_but_better_than_you: It was a TYPO, not a grammatical travesty. Get over yourself.


  • Than or Then? - August 16, 2007 at 12:59 pm #

  • I’ve never ever ever never neber eber made that mistake, but kudos to the author for graciously acknowledging his mistake and avoiding the flame.

    On the plus side, it did get one anonymous reader to write. Maybe the secret to writer’s block is to read articles like this and search for grammar problems.

    I even managed to get a few sentences written! Thanks, Scott Scott!


  • wakes - August 16, 2007 at 3:36 pm #

  • And here is possibly how a modern dialog goes.


  • Expendable - August 16, 2007 at 4:01 pm #

  • Scary, isn’t it? Great article Scott.


  • Dave Lucas - August 16, 2007 at 4:29 pm #

  • Methinks if you can write a blog, you can certainly write a book! I’ve written over a thousand posts… (whacks self in head) WOW! I coulda written a book!


  • Gavin Bell - August 17, 2007 at 3:30 am #

  • There is a strong parallel between writing a book and giving a talk. In both cases there are many more in the audience or reading the book and a strong desire to be published / give the talk. Barcamp is a good place to dip your toe in speaking and the advice to start a blog is good in terms of writing.
    The earlier comments on this post looked at the advantages of writing. I’d agree, just like giving talks, writing forces you to make your mind up. So as well as starting a blog, I’d suggest you try giving talks on your chosen subject.
    Lastly as someone (reference?) once said the person who gains the most from giving a talk is the speaker. I think Andrew Savikas and Chris Anderson would agree that this applies equally to writing a book. The reader / audience can gain a lot, sometimes an immense amount, but you only ever get the highlights in the book / talk and this has been tuned for a particular audience, which is vital for talks and books.


  • Ray Villalobos - August 17, 2007 at 7:02 am #

  • I just finished writing my first book “Exploring Multimedia for Designers” and I can attest to the truth of this article. It was a ton of work, especially since it’s something I did in addition to a regular job.


  • Vincent van Wylick - August 17, 2007 at 9:30 am #

  • I think there is in fact a cost to writing, the opportunity cost. And while there may not be much to say about the art of writing (everyone writes differently), there may be plenty to say about the art of staying alive while practising it.


  • Ron - August 17, 2007 at 11:30 am #

  • Great article, even with the grammatical malfeasance that so upset Unpublished. And might I just add, it’s no wonder he’s unpublished – probably spends far too much time worrying about dangling his participles.

    Other helpful advice is to not try writing when you have young children or old houses. Both take up way too much time and energy and that writing thing just gets pushed right to the side.


  • Scott - August 17, 2007 at 1:48 pm #

  • Very inspiring article. Thank you.


  • Book TV - August 17, 2007 at 1:55 pm #

  • the biggest tip would be to be controversial, that will more easily get you a book deal then any other method.


  • Drexl - August 17, 2007 at 2:05 pm #

  • Thanks for a great article. I’ve been toying with the idea of self-publishing for a long while and I think that is a nice route for some maybe not for everyone. If someone out there has something that they want to do for friends and family and aren’t concerned with a larger audience then I say go for it. It is affordable and you will have a cool experience in the process. I plan to do so in the very near future.

    Anyway, all I really wanted to say was that this was a great article.


  • wakes - August 17, 2007 at 2:26 pm #

  • I’ve got lots of thoughts inline with my book plots which I want to get down and I’ve found that mind-mapping software (e.g. freemind) has helped me though you could get trapped.


  • Bill - August 17, 2007 at 2:42 pm #

  • Thanks for great advice, fantastic resource and helpful comments on the topic. It’s given me inspiration to try to finish one of the three one-third completed books I have.

    As for “Unpublished” , as the French might say ” crapeau dans le chapeau”


  • dharmabruce - August 17, 2007 at 3:35 pm #

  • Let me summarize the article: writing takes work. That’s quite a how-to.

    First of all, writers write. If you don’t write all the time now, you are a long way away from writing a book.

    Real writers just want their work to be read. They are not necessarily looking to be famous.

    As a new author, expect many rejections from publishers. Also, if you are looking for a literary agent, be wary of scammers. Do your homework on them before you select them. Be prepared to spend thousands of dollars on a literary agent, good editor, etc.

    Like acting and other creative endeavors, you also need to market your self and product. You will need to work to find book signing deals and you will likely need to market these yourself.

    There are few shortcuts and they are rarely available to new authors.


  • dharmabruce - August 17, 2007 at 3:37 pm #

  • Ah, one more thing. If you are a writer that writes regularly but not professionally, you will probably find that getting your book published takes more work than writing the book.


  • Brett Battles - August 17, 2007 at 3:48 pm #

  • Excellent post. Well said on all fronts.


  • Salamandre - August 17, 2007 at 4:46 pm #

  • The Anonymous Novelist dealt with just this a week ago. He’s also really funny. novelistanon.blogspot.com


  • Michael A. Banks - August 17, 2007 at 5:32 pm #

  • Writing is indeed hard work. I think it’s the no heavy lifting part that makes people think it’s easy. ;-)
    –Mike (who wrote his first books with a manual typewriter)


  • Dennis - August 17, 2007 at 5:42 pm #

  • Unpublished-but-better-than-you!

    Did anyone ever tell you that you are a pompous ass? If not, THEN let me be the first.


  • SteveC - August 17, 2007 at 7:11 pm #

  • One word: nanowrimo

    Google it if you don’t know what it is. It’s just around the corner.


  • Andy - August 17, 2007 at 11:11 pm #

  • Very nice post. Probably the first thing I’ve read in a long time that actually makes me want to write.


  • Mo Verdigast - August 17, 2007 at 11:26 pm #

  • @Michael A. Banks

    I dimly remember typewriters. Sigh. Takes me way back, and as Wrai Ballard used to say, I wish it would leave me there.

    As someone who has written more than 30 books, it definitely doesn’t get easier as you go on and you don’t necessarily get paid more either. But I can’t see quitting.

    Do it for love.

    The good news is that in spite of the Internet and electronic publishing, the book seems here to stay.

    As was said originally, writing doesn’t require a lot of investment up front and we all waste a lot of time every day.

    Good article and good posts!


  • Baby Monster Dad - August 18, 2007 at 12:16 am #

  • I agree, it’s very easy to write and publish an book, but it takes work to make a great one.


  • Hamish MacDonald - August 18, 2007 at 7:11 am #

  • I write novels and got sick of sending out manuscripts to publishing businesses that were so busy struggling to survive, going out of business, or busy being bought up by international conglomerates to seriously consider new work.

    So I stopped — not writing books, just trying to appeal to these businesses. Now I’m micropress publishing: actually making the books myself.

    It’s been a wonderful shift in how I think about myself as a culture-worker, and also means that I’m focusing on readers, not businesspeople. Sure, I only have a small group of readers, but I have readers. There’s reality to my being an author, which there wouldn’t be if I was still waiting for someone to take six months to write back, saying his press isn’t taking on any new authors (unless, of course, they’ve been on “Big Brother”, in which case their crayon-scribbled biography would get a huge advance).

    Micropress publishing is labour intensive, but gets more efficient as you go, and teaches you a lot about the publishing process, so if you do end up dealing with commercial publishers later on, you’ll have a respect and understanding for what it takes to make a book.

    A while back, I outlined I’d learned about the process for the No Media Kings website:
    http://nomediakings.org/doityourself/doityourself_book_press.html

    To those looking for advice about writing novels, I would recommend learning about story structure. This will help you plan and write a coherent, satisfying story, rather than starting at page one and getting lost or leaving your readers bewildered. A few helpful books for this are:

    The Weekend Novelist, by Brett Norris, Robert J. Ray
    http://www.acblack.com/Catalogue/details.asp?sku=1421797&dept_id=8

    The Comic Toolbox by John Vorhaus
    http://www.silmanjamespress.com/book_description/comic_toolbox.html
    (Even though it’s about comedy writing, the principles are still perfect for creating a tight novel-arc. Vorhaus has another book called Creativity Rules, which is also very good.)

    The biggest piece of advice I’d give to anyone wanting to write a novel is to NOT think about marketing, book proposals, or any of that other bumpf that businesspeople encourage you to. That way “Writer’s Block” lies (which is not real; merely a product of worrying about what others will think when you should be just making things up).

    You have to create a work from your own original mind yourself. Most online self-pubishing resources I’ve found are geared toward writing non-fiction “how-to” guru books, not novels.

    While you will have to think about these principles later, when you’re learning to sell your work, don’t let it twist your creative process. If you try to reverse-engineer something successful — which is what agents and publishers at book festival breakout sessions will advise you to do — you’ll be as badly off as those Hollywood types who think that remaking “Enter the Dragon” is a good idea.

    Good luck!

    - Hamish MacDonald
    http://www.hamishmacdonald.com


  • zhx - August 18, 2007 at 1:25 pm #

  • I like how worked up “unpublished-but-better-than-you” got over a simple typo. Pretty sure the author knows the difference between then and than. Relax.


  • Darrius - August 18, 2007 at 5:45 pm #

  • hi i enjoyed the read


  • Jesse Liberty - August 19, 2007 at 8:25 am #

  • Great article, written by the author of a great book, writing for a great publisher

    I very much enjoyed it. You might want to take a look at a similar article targeted at technical articles, written by another terrific author, Scott Meyers: http://www.aristeia.com/authorAdvice_frames.html which is also quite good.

    Thanks again, it was a fun read. (If knowledge of English grammar and spelling were required, I’d be in big trouble. As Kurt Vonnegut said, “English is my second language, unfortunately, I don’t have a first language.”)

    -jesse


  • Stacy Vye - August 19, 2007 at 10:25 am #

  • I’m just finishing up on a book now, on deadline, which is the only way I know how to work, I’m ashamed to say. The single most important thing: write something, every single day. It’s best to have a daily quota. (500 words, not a lot, will give you a book in a year – that’s how Graham Greene did it.)

    This requires a truly monumental amount of self-discipline. A lot of people think that being a writer = a nice lifestyle. In some ways, it does, but realize that being your own boss means just that: someone is still forcing you to knuckle down and produce every day, it’s just that this person is you.

    Also, a lot of people have a romantic misperception of the average writer’s life. if you think being a novelist means padding around in sweats in a picturesque mountain cabin all day, guess again. I know several full-time novelists, some of them quite successful, and they travel more than most salesmen. If they’re lucky and make decent money off their own books, that usually means book tours, which are grueling, weeks-long slogs during which you fly to a new, uninteresting city every single day (not that they get to see anything besides the airports and hotel rooms) and answer the same questions over and over again. Those are the lucky ones. Most of the rest have to teach, which means more travel to unexciting places and reading a lot of really bad manuscripts and then trying to find something constructive to say to the people who wrote them. Most of the novelists I know are frustrated that no matter how well they do, they still don’t get much time to write. The ironic thing about writing is that it’s a profession that tends to attract homebodies, but if you want to do well, you can’t really be a homebody.

    I do it because I really like to write, but I have to admit, I’m dreading the promotional side of it, especially the travel, when this book is done.


  • Martha - August 20, 2007 at 4:08 am #

  • An interesting and inspiring article. I appreciate the trouble you took to spell this out for people, and with humor too.

    Since I really am an English professor, I am required by law :-) to say that the past tense of ‘tread’ is ‘trod.’ I just mention this because it’s the kind of thing that spellcheck doesn’t pick up, and because when I used to work as a fiction editor, I know that if we had two equally publishable books to choose from, we’d pick the one that required the least copyediting and proofreading.

    But I don’t mean this to detract from the usefulness of this punchy, entertaining, helpful article.


  • Timothy Fish - August 20, 2007 at 10:46 am #

  • I read a comment by Randy Alcorn the other day stating that what most people want is to have written a book. Some people have the life todo lists and writing a book is often on it. If that is a person’s goal, then there is nothing to do but muscle one’s way through it, but for anyone else I would say that if you don’t enjoy writing then find something else to do. Writing is hard work. If you are proficient enough and you are writing about a subject that publisher thinks will sell then publishing is not an issue, but if your writing bad or the subject won’t sell then you end up with a manuscript that will have a limited number of readers. Given a choice between a well know author and a first time author, the publisher will always favor the well known author. Even among the books that get published, most of them have very limited success. Writing books is not the path to fame and fortune.


  • ABBMEX - August 20, 2007 at 4:12 pm #

  • I have a little secret of my own for writing dialogs. Talk to yourself in the mirror and talk alone out loud in traffic jams or in the shower. It works for realistic dialogs. You can record them or not. By doing that your mind gets used to have internal dialogs and it helps a lot when you write. Just be careful to do it alone.
    ¿Having a fight with yourself? Is not very common to regular people they might think you are crazy!
    By the way sorry about my English but I’m sure that if all this were written in Spanish you guys would be much more in trouble than me right now.


  • Nettie Hartsock - September 5, 2007 at 12:11 am #

  • Great post and I would say the key to writing a book is to literally write it one page at a time. One things I tell folks who are “blocked” is to put away all the books in their office until they are done writing their own. (thesaurus and dictionary – don’t get packed.)


  • Kathy Rizzo - September 17, 2007 at 8:14 am #

  • I guess I join the thousands of people who say “I want to write a book! Okay, so how do I begin?” I know what I want to write about, I just don’t know if other people would be interested enough to buy and read it. I guess that’s not what I should think. I should just sit down and start writing what is in my heart and see how it looks on paper.
    There are a lot of good ideas here and hopefully I can put them to use. Thanks


  • Sandi - October 4, 2007 at 10:54 pm #

  • Thanks Scott and all others who had positive feedback. I’ve been thinking of writing a book for at least 10 years and have started several times. This time I am committed to see it through.


  • Les Markham - October 6, 2007 at 4:59 am #

  • Thank you for your honesty and integrity, things I don’t find in this life. I remain a “fan”,of you and I think you are a life force in writing for those who would like to tell their story. Thank you for the inspiration to tell mine.


  • Joyce E. Prosser - October 9, 2007 at 8:15 pm #

  • I need help. I’m a middle aged woman that’s suffered 2 heart attacks and a severe stroke that took my whole right side and has had to battle my way back vertually on my own. Case in point-this happened within less than 36 hrs. last Dec. and I’m still waiting to receive therapy. I need to exercise a few demons and felt a book just might do it. Right now, I have just purchased my new flash drive and need simple help, like do I have to write and then print in double space? When you answer, please “Idiot-Proof” your answer. All I’m asking for is simply the most basic How To instructions, to get started. I’ve gotta take it one step at a time or I’ll be too overwhelmed to finish. It was a “Trip Into Terror”,and coupled with actual abuse at the hands of medical personnel. It’s a story that most people would be afraid to tell but needs to be said. How many more has this happened to? We need to keep it from happening again! I’ve lost alot due to all that happened, but I’ve still got a mouth. It even works correctly, sometimes. Anyway, can you help a decrepit old lady out? Can’t wait to hear from you. I’m going to try no matter what.Thanks for your time.-Joyce E.


  • D-Mo - October 10, 2007 at 10:27 pm #

  • Just a line to say that I’m an aspiring musician,and I feel like starting my first book.
    This Post was the first that I’ve looked into for some gettin’ started advice and you all have helped greatly. Oh-yes, Unpublished a little word for you to remember about the creative process.”It’s not how the damn thing looks,it’s if it has something to say that actually matters!” Thanks for the help guys “D-Mo”


  • Catt I. Tude - October 18, 2007 at 12:58 pm #

  • (Then, suddenly, there’s a quiet female voice, slightly off-key, singing softly in the background…)

    “Dear Sir, (Or Madam?)
    Will you read MY book?

    It took me years to write,
    will you take a look?

    Based on a novel by a man named Lear
    (And I need a job!)
    So, I want to be a…

    Paperback Writer!!!
    Paperback Writer.

    …….. ”

    (And, the off-key voice fades into a quite, “Click…Click-Click-Click” as the woman Catt continues her determined journey across her old and worn keyboard — The keyboard with a whole worn completely through from her ragged nails into the ‘E’ key….)

    [Thanks for the info., folks!!! Catt]


  • Alvin Jones - October 22, 2007 at 9:23 pm #

  • Everytime I think about writting a book feelings begin to overcome me…sounds stupid right? I am beginning to believe this is something that I need to do. I am a true beginner, what is a good book to start with (how to get started)?


  • Jovana B. - October 24, 2007 at 8:04 am #

  • I’m 17 years old and have tried writing fantasy and other types of novels before, but dared bring none to publishers (because I’m still at that age when I am getting better every year). I have a story I would really like published one day, and I haven’t finished it the way I’d like to yet.
    Could you please give me advice on this: since I live in a European country, is it smart to write a novel in a language other than English? I’ve read somewhere that such a novel would be worthless, but I can’t write it as well as I could in my country’s language.

    By the way, your a, b and c on the “being famous and wealthy” topic were great :D


  • Geraint richards (up and coming 15 year old author hopefully) - October 24, 2007 at 1:53 pm #

  • hey im 15 and im writing a book and i was wondering what you do when u get writers block because im getting it alot now im on my 1050th page of my book, its good so far i think and i was just wondering if you had any tips on how to get rid of writers block or on how to get inspiration?
    great article by the way lots of help :D


  • brenda - October 27, 2007 at 9:17 am #

  • I finally found the courage to sit down and write after many years of writing thoughts in a note book. I love the way the charaters start to come a live. I also love the way i wake in the middle of the night with ideas. Thanks fot letting me know to just to keep trying


  • Lynne - October 28, 2007 at 5:20 pm #

  • I am a surgical RN,,and I know nothing about writing a book,,but I want to write one related to things that are important and maybe useful to others (nothing to do with the medical field),,my concerns is how to start the book,,do i do a outline first or do I just jump in a start writing and organize later,,what program should I use on my pc??? AND Unpublished_but_better_than_you,,,STOP being so anal retentive,, ;)


  • Lauren - October 30, 2007 at 11:28 am #

  • Well I am ot sure if I can write a book but I can write. i have been keeping a journal since I was in highschool and I am now in my upper 30’s. I would love to write a book about , well just my life. It is nothing great but life as a Catskill Mountain Middle class Drama queen, not. I found myself starting to read your article and before I could even get to the how to write a book part I found myself closing out of this website and starting to write. I startd writing as if I was writing the introduction of a book. Interesting since I do not know the first thing about writing a book, I just have alot of issues in life that I would like to talk about, from childhood up to my adult life. Who knows where I am going with this “writing a book” but hey you never know!
    Until then…


  • Athena - October 31, 2007 at 5:17 am #

  • My reply to the moron who can’t get over the THEN/THAN mistake. Qualified to give advice? I think that “reader” is qualified for one thing and its(and no asshole I don’t mean it’s, I mean YOU) your book should be entitled “Blind Rage and the Downward Spiral”.

    As to the article, I agree… the bottom line is there is no advice more than just DO IT. The “klondike bar” above didn’t quite grasp. Thanks for the post Scott


  • joe - October 31, 2007 at 6:06 pm #

  • Hey Scott,
    I am 17 and have been capsized by fiction writing since I could scribble with crayons.
    I came across your site and thought it was cool.
    I read your thing on how to write a book, you were blunt but you came off understanding. thanks so much for adding tinder to the needed fire under my butt to get me writing again.
    peace from Indiana,
    joe


  • Renee Carey - November 3, 2007 at 9:47 am #

  • Thank you for your frankness. It’s refreshing. How many people have you heard say the following: “I want to write because I love to write and I have, what I feel, is a unique experience to share and possibly help someone with.”? I know self-help types of books are usually not best sellers and although money is tucked somewhere in my mind it’s not my motivation. All I really want to know is how do I get started? Do I go back through all the journals and notes I’ve accumualted over the years and try to somehow put them all together in a collection of boring testimonials or is there a better place to start? Should I get education on how to write properly before I even start to put fingers to keyboard or should I just wing-it?

    Thank you, Renee Carey


  • Barry Bennett - November 7, 2007 at 12:02 pm #

  • Scott, as a former radio talker and unpublished author,I’m facinated by the snobs and grammer-groin-kickers. Thanks for sharing your ideas and thoughts, knowing that many Community College English profs will shred your work.Half of Americans think that 90% of what they read is crap.Point is…stop trying to be the next Hemingway,unless you own property in Havana, and just tell me a story. While you lose mind over grammer,I’ve lost my way through your story. Just because you sang Happy Birthday, doesn’t make you a singer. (My God that’s deep ain’t it?)


  • Angela S - November 10, 2007 at 3:28 pm #

  • In researching the web, I have seen mostly negative comments about writing a book. The company I work for is closing its doors and I will soon be out of a job. After taking a resume and interview class to find out what my strengths were and what I am drawn to, it became very clear that I am addicted to reading and writing! My priorities have changed from the corporate world to one of making sure I do what I really want while I am still young enough to think clearly. I am taking a job in a book store, so that I may be near what I love and I am attempting a book that is not all me, but a contribution from many. A portion of what I make, will be give to research for Alzehiemers to help find a cure. This is very close to my heart since it runs on both sides of my family. If I somehow survive that, then I will attempt something entirely on my own, as I have a few ideas. Maybe, just maybe, I will simply be happy just knowing that I have given something back, that is, if I REMEMBER it! Thanks for listening and if anyone has any advice, I certainly welcome it.


  • The Baldchemist - November 10, 2007 at 7:25 pm #

  • Ha ha. Nice one Scott. Take away the bullshit get creative and work. No secret is it?
    I don’t know- never educate a mug.
    Thanks for your very poignant observations. Tell ‘em the way it is. The Baldchemist.


  • Tobias Cattrall - November 11, 2007 at 1:26 pm #

  • ok so im 17 and i have a great idea for a book, i always loved stories and stuff but writing is so boring. i have written a few short stories in the past couple years but this one really is the grand master. i’m writing one and my best mate is writing it’s counterpart. i ave all te complicated inter-twinings of te book worked out in my head but getting the colours from my head to a publisher who will like them seem so far away. i don’t know what im asking for really, im just going to concentrate on getting the colours out of my head and into some sort of comprehencible order. can someone atleast tell me im not wasting my time and lunatics can write books too?


  • Camci - November 12, 2007 at 7:11 pm #

  • Truth is, I, like many folks, look to writing as a way of answering questions, acting out thoughts, and capturing dreams. Organizing all of this into a comprehensible manuscript is another story. Such a practice requires the use of both sides of the brain. Since my left side was removed at birth and replaced with kapoc, it leaves me at a distinct disadvantage. But hey, the journey is the reward.


  • pauld - November 13, 2007 at 10:09 pm #

  • I like this website. It tells the truth. It is all work when writing anything: marketing, sales, fiction, how-to or corporate action plans. I’m into my 12th month of a how-to book. It something I have 25+ years experience doing and 12+ years owning a company that provided for this. I wanted to write it in 1998, corporate America wanted me more.

    Two years ago I changed my life enough to have time for it and I still didn’t do it. The people that surround my life encouraged me so much, I finally began in late 2006. Since then, I have a second job working the night shift after working all day. It is my book. No surprise here! I should have my first draft ready by the end of March 2008. There are no shortcuts, only cutshorts.


  • Rookaponz - November 18, 2007 at 3:37 pm #

  • I had to laugh at the comments by “unpublished but better than you”. That user name alone would be enough to let one know that he/she may be coming from a place of superiority. Defenders of the English language aside… I want to tell the story of my parents emigration to America and the many misadventures they had along the way. I won’t have much trouble with the dialog or how to flesh out the story, but I would like some ideas on how to outline the story before I begin putting all my ideas together. I keep thinking that I need to build a framework for the story first before I start putting all the ideas in my head to paper. Is there a rule of thumb that anyone knows on how to create an outline for a story and how to know where one chapter ends and another begins. I don’t want to reinvent the wheel and reinvent it wrong if there is a formula for building a story already in place. Any Ideas?


  • ArchAngel - November 27, 2007 at 8:32 am #

  • I applaud your honesty in writing this useful article. I have recently begun tapping away at the keyboard to start my first fiction novel. I guess I still like the dream of being able to make a living as an author – call me an optimist (or deluded :)).

    Unpublished – people make typos, get over yourself.

    Keep writing.


  • Jessica_mom_of_7 - November 28, 2007 at 9:41 am #

  • This was very encouraging :) I have been told by a lot of people I have talent and been published in a couple of minor things. However the most important person has not told me I am talented, myself. I know you can not do that for me, but I wanted to say thanks for the swift kick in the butt I needed to get started. I just googled “how to write a book” and you came up, thank the Lord for small miracles. Tonight after putting my crew of 7 children and 1 husband to bed I am going for it! I don’t know what will end up on the page, but hey Kinko’s will bind anything right ? :)


  • Obbop - December 1, 2007 at 5:41 pm #

  • “Unpublished_but_better_than_you – August 16th, 2007 at 4:59 am

    “If Voltaire and Marquis de Sade could write in prison, than you can do it in suburbia” – If you can write this without knowing the first thing about English grammar, I guess anyone CAN write. I stopped reading right there, by the way. If you can’t tell the difference between “than” and “then,” you have no business giving other people advice.”

    Sheeeesh!!!!!!!!!!! Who placed your furry nodules in a vice and turned the handle?

    Anal retentive much?


  • Bryan Miller - December 3, 2007 at 1:32 am #

  • Like a Culinary- prepared meal, I tried to digest “The Berkum Blog” in search for the secret recipy to,” How To Write a Book”. Hard work, dedicated daily routine preserved for cogitation and writing were the unexciting prerequisits for sucess.OK, but for dessert I think I’ll stir-in personal experiences, a touch of humor,a bit of visual melody only the mind can hear when seen in print. I like the complimentary replys you recieved. Am certain I know what Joyce Rosser will write, go for it Joyce. GOOD BLOG SITE SCOTT!


  • Stuart - December 11, 2007 at 1:08 pm #

  • Hi, I just wonted to say that I’ve started a book about me.I beleive that it will sell. I Know it will. How you ask just beleive.My spelling sucks my typeing sucks but thats ok I have a feeling that someone will bye at least one I hope after reading your blog I will keep on the write path Thanks, Stuball


  • bernie - December 19, 2007 at 5:19 pm #

  • hi i just want to say reading you website was great. I looked it up because i have a very strong urge to tell a story a true but sad one.
    but the only thing is, im crap at writing and i cant spell for love nor money.I know thats not much use to you but is their any way someone like me can get it down on paper the right way. are their wrighter that do that sort of thing. sorry i know this is not for asking the wrong questions


  • Anna - December 21, 2007 at 8:16 pm #

  • So here we go: I’m a young chick who loves and lives to be creative and is currently thinking of writing a story. Not fictional, but not exactly an autobiography. My question? Are chapters from one’s life too cliche?

    It seems to me a wide variety of audiences are stricken by reality tv and the news. They always seem to include horrific events and slightly insane people. I am quite sure I can captivate a reader through pages and pages, but how much is too much? Where do you draw the lines on plot? I want to know when a book needs a break and great ways to do it.

    I’m not even quite sure how I got to this site. I googled “how to write a book’ and this site popped up. I have a strong, guttural urge to write a book, but I want to make sure it would interest people….not just my friends and me.

    Any suggestions/advice you would have for a young beginner would be great.

    Oh yeah, the article was helpful :-)


  • Ken - December 25, 2007 at 3:17 am #

  • Hey Scott…

    Nice article. I’m a copywriter. It’s my second job, but I do get paid to do it. So it’s cool. I fell in love with the notion of writing copy. Lately have been flirting with the idea of writing a book.

    After my first few paid assignments, I was very excited about it all. I still am. Reality settled in as time passed.

    I have more assignments. Things are cool.

    Several things I’d like to offer…

    Scott, and others, are 100% correct. Writing is work. No matter what kind of writing you do. If you wanna write… ask your self why you wanna write. Anything less than loving stories and writing them will not see you through. There are other things, of course. You might want to read Robert McKee’s book, Story. He teaches screenwriting but it applies to fiction writing.

    As with getting published, I’ve found the business side of copywriting kinda sucks, too. Fortunately I don’t have to do all the traveling to promote my stuff.

    I knew a guy who wrote a trilogy of books. They sucked to high heaven. But he had the jing to self-publish and promote it. I noticed he was always traveling on the weekends to promote it.

    But I admired him because he wrote them, got them made, and put up a nice website to promote them. And he was walking tall. But he seemed utterly clueless because the books were awful. Seems no one ever mentioned that to him. But who cares? He was happy. So I was happy for him.

    I write all kinds of things for businesses. I tend to write every day. And something happens when you do that. Your brain gets greased. Works better. I never get writer’s block.

    And! I know some will read this and flame me for all the fractured writing rules. But you wanna know what?

    It’s copywriting. In copywriting you write exactly like regular people talk. Everyday language. You have to throw out all the rules you learned in school. But you do need to know what they are, first.

    Wanna write a book?

    Learn how to tell a great story. Learn how to create a great story. People love stories. Every fiction book, poem, song, short ’story’… is a story about something.

    Learn the nuts ‘n bolts of how to tell a great story.

    Learn how to write dialog. How? Learn from what’s around you. Ever seen a movie? Next time, pay attention to the dialog. Then… write some.

    Write every day.

    Read Robert McKee’s book about screenwriting. It’ll help you, I promise.

    Forget money, fame, fortune. Write because you love to write. Because you love telling a great story.

    Start writing short stories. You have to learn how to do some things. So start small and build.

    Try submitting your stories to small places to get published. Local newspapers, newsletters, online places looking for stories, small mags. Anywhere.

    See ya.


  • Kip - December 27, 2007 at 6:56 am #

  • Even though im 13 (almost 14) I’ve always wanted to write a book. I’ve had tuns of grate idea’s but in the mornig they seem really bad. Oh well ill keep trying (went throw 19 ideas)


  • Mauro Biaggi - January 2, 2008 at 2:17 pm #

  • Happy New Year Everybody!!!

    Well I’m glad to be first in replying this great article (2008) well maybe I’m not the first in telling everybody that all feedback is appreciated I wont leave aside your opinion and thank you all for taking the time to write, the article is also wonderful, I’ve surfed the internet since the thing itself started and I always found boring to write in blogs but know this: You’ve all encouraged me to start writing everywhere I can to spread my opinion.

    Now it is my turn to pay:

    I truly believe there are secrets to write a best seller and it has to do with the writer’s personality and commitment, as i said before it is a “secret” nobody ever teaches you how “to be” to success in writing (or mostly in anything else) teaching you how to write is as possible as to teach you how to move your eyebrows up and down or to tell good jokes or to be articulated all the time this is simply not very possible to occur but what it is possible is to do an insight.

    The INSIGHT

    It doesn’t require a sharp mind, beign in shape, tons of loot or any hi-tech software for you to perform just close your eyes for two seconds a couple of times a day and don’t press yourself too much, in your mind will surely appear memories of you having a bad time (for big or not so big deals), the time you laughed the most or made someone else laugh till she or he dirtied up her or his underwear, in that insight you are truly you and the real you is the one with the highest percentage to success in anything you demand (explained at the end of the paragraph) just don’t sit on your hands when you get the memories write them or record them on .WAV but don’t let them go to oblivion because the first impression is the one that counts; if you let the time flow your own mind no matter what the situation will add and substract stuff and it won’t be the original idea and that is what people is looking for to buy a book ORIGINALITY.

    Foolproof Method for writing realistic dialogs

    Make a party, bring alcohol (for lowering stress levels), and do role playing games with a given situation written in small pieces of paper (according to the situations you want to transform into dialogs to write in your book) then put them to work in trios where at least each one of them say a line, then make them work in duos the rule this time is that they have to say at least 3 lines (short conversation like) at the very end make them work solo. You can designate a secretary to write all the speeches and submit them later to vote and give a prize to the winner or secretly record the whole party, it is never good to keep secrets you must tell your friends you’re writing a book so your commitment to the book and to yourself will increase but don’t let your moral interfere too much by telling them you’re recording the party or you’ll make your friends feel like mice inside a labyrinth or as puppets, in other words they might feel upset or if they want to cooperate anyway the realness will unquestioningly decrease from the start as they feel constantly observed.


  • brandon - January 2, 2008 at 9:31 pm #

  • I have two unfinished works and am currently at a stand still, make that three unfinished works. I loved this article and believe it will propel me into writing, thank you


  • Tonja, England - January 8, 2008 at 10:09 am #

  • I came upon this website as i trawled for some kind of writing reassurance. I find crisis of confidance quite an obstacle with anything i attempt to write. The inner critic will probe:-
    ‘what’s the point’
    ‘this is inane’
    ‘your sentences are juvenile’
    ‘this is relentless’
    ‘this is repetetive’
    etc etc

    I find myself requiring little boosts of confidance to slog through to complete a book.
    Your website gave me that little boost in confidance. I thank you for that.
    Informative and fun and the blog highlighted the personal battles others were having. It was the medicine i needed.

    I leave a little ‘joke’(subjective of course) that this medicine produced.

    The book characters are talking to a fellow who can see into the future.

    “Hey it’s a bit like that book this”

    “What book?”

    “You know the book where he predicts what’s going to happen in the future”

    “What the Nostradamus book?”

    “erm I don’t think so”

    “Les Prophecies? “

    “No I don’t think it’s him either”

    “No Les Prophecies is Nostradamus’s book”

    “No, No that other book erm……..erm…… Back to the future”

    “That’s not a book it’s a film”

    “It’s a bit like it though isn’t it”

    Thanks again Scott


  • Jonathan - January 15, 2008 at 4:31 pm #

  • This website has proven to be quite informative. I am in the initial processes of writing some Christian literature. The book is going to be somewhat controversial. My philosophies are a bit different than that of most my Christian brothers, within my Christian circle. In writing this manuscript, I expose myself to criticism. I feel a passion when I express my ideas and philosophies. Do you guys think that there is much of market for this type of writing? It’s not a self help but more like a revelatory depiction of Gods involvement in the affairs of mans life. How that everything in ones life is working to mature and bring him to a greater sense of the creator. I talk about the trials and tribulations in life. I also talk about sin and Gods mercy, etc. It is against unconventional but I think it will pop. I am not in it for the money its more like an assignment from God! Feel free to email me at jcpraisehim@yahoo.com if you could give me ideas or comments.


  • Timmerdog - January 21, 2008 at 8:09 am #

  • Jonathan.

    I do not think it is important that a book you might feel is assignment from your god might be controversial. If this is in fact an assignment from her/him then simply do it. When I read a book or hear a story told I want to believe what is before me. Conviction must come through. The old saying of writing what you know, I believe this to be true.


  • David - January 24, 2008 at 4:25 pm #

  • Great article, gave me lots of inspiration and hope. I just submitted a proposal to O’Reilly, and it was rejected within 30 minutes. Very efficient, and very nicely worded, but devastating nonetheless. What do you do if you think you have a great idea, but the world disagrees?


  • Michael Ashley - February 4, 2008 at 6:10 pm #

  • Thanks for the great article. I found that most people get caught up in the logistics of writing rather than the story itself. If you get a chance, take a look at FastPencil.com, http://www.fastpencil.com and let me know what you think. I created the web site to help authors write better and faster.


  • dramaqueen - February 6, 2008 at 9:13 am #

  • I’m 16 years old and I have been writing things like poetry, music and short stories since I was 9. However, 2 years ago I started on my very first long story. I get my ideas from reading, tv,and ancting with my friend but if those type of things don’t get your juices flowing then write about things you know, write about your own life but put a twist on it. Good luck to all who want to be a writer like I do:)


  • Michael - February 11, 2008 at 6:50 pm #

  • I have a Idea for a book that can also be a cartoon and toy line I need help becouse I am not a writer and to get this off the ground it has to start as a book I know I need a ghost wrtiter and illustrator and I also need to protect my Idea before sharing it but how do I find those people and bring this Idea to life?


  • Rebecca - February 21, 2008 at 1:03 pm #

  • Hello scott I am 13 years old and I have just begun to write a book this last hour. Have you any idea how to get a book template? Also when there is a leading at the start of a book (big letter) how do you do that? I may sound stupid but I have always loved wrting and admired successful writers.Hopefully one day someone will write this to me when I’m a successful author! thank you


  • R Riveiro - February 23, 2008 at 4:46 am #

  • I am writing again after a break recovering from a rejection notice. Now I have created the following set of commandments for myself. Maybe this will help others also:

    . Thou shall write one blog post per day on your own blog
    . Thou shall write one blog post per day on someone else’s blog
    . Thou shall write two pages of novel story per day
    . Thou shall write one page of short story per day
    . Thou shall remain happy at all times whilst in pursuit of happiness

    End result: network with other writers. Two short stories + one novel per year. Happiness.

    Thanks for the post


  • cramer - February 23, 2008 at 12:52 pm #

  • You are correct in saying writing is hard work. I speak often and writing is tougher. I can speak for hours on a subject but when I sit and write it out…well that is hard. I think that there is a mis-conception that it is harder to edit. Yes it is hard but I propose that the hardest thing to do is neither writing nor editing but receiving critique. Now THAT is hard.


  • Susie - March 6, 2008 at 9:58 am #

  • R Riveiro – best advice ever! Thank you!

    Susie


  • saira - March 9, 2008 at 3:11 am #

  • Sine the last couple of weeks i have been dying to write a book. But im only twelve years old. Wont people think that this book isnt mine. i need help has anyone got an advice for me.

    please i need help badly.


  • nukrebttocs - March 11, 2008 at 4:14 pm #

  • I’ve wrote half of my book this month and what really helped me was wearing that cafepress T-shirt with “I WANT TO WRITE A BOOK” written on it.


  • linsay brown - March 21, 2008 at 7:39 am #

  • I’m writing a book… there is no turning back. Its a solitary road travelled across the keys as the rest of my world lies cocooned in their warm beds. I sit on my frozen toes, wracked with frustration trying to remember the joy! Thank you for an inspiring blog, I see I am not alone.


  • Hiclay2000 - March 23, 2008 at 9:42 pm #

  • Hey Unpublished.

    I think your a smuck!

    Ever seen the text messages people do these days. Im sure you would have fun with the english language then. Its moving to more of a “I know what you ment to say” type phylosophy. Children will dictate the future of the enlish language. Have you ever read a newspaper from the 1800’s. Almost impossible due to the different ways they used words and structured sentances. I cant spell and dont care, this doesnt have a spell check, BUT YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN DONT YOU!!!
    Let me guess, you love picking out things wrong with what other people do because its probably the only thing you can do well.


  • scott - March 26, 2008 at 12:03 am #

  • I think many folks are just afraid, or so full of indecision about life, that nothing ever gets done out of fear of failure. The criticism scares away many a potential author.

    Writing is not about gaining praise or wealth. You should write for yourself. If other people like your work, then it is nothing more than a bonus.


  • Roxie Wheeler - March 31, 2008 at 9:04 am #

  • My book is in my mind. I know it. I live it everyday. It’s the putting it on paper and saying what it needs to say.
    I want to be an outsider looking in. Telling the story so true…
    I’m working on it.


  • T_A_L_L_T_O_M - April 3, 2008 at 11:52 pm #

  • inspired me to write


  • CJ - April 7, 2008 at 3:38 pm #

  • Scott, this was completely disappointing and exactly what I needed to hear. I am a closet writer (if there was ever such a thing) and have only recently decided to explore the idea of publishing some of my work. Maybe my next step is to get off my rump and actually do something about it.

    Dearest Grammar and Spelling Royalty – please do not look on this post unfavorably if you find an error. Simply let me know. If you have a malicious disposition and can only have cynical remarks to offer, simply move on. None of us need to hear it. The inability to give feedback or criticism in a civil manner speaks volumes about your personality.


  • Off the grid - April 9, 2008 at 10:46 am #

  • unpublished’s silly rant brings to mind the following quote from Alvin Toffler:

    “Anyone nit-picking enough to write a letter of correction to an editor doubtless deserves the error that provoked it.”


  • Caroline Budhan - April 12, 2008 at 11:26 am #

  • Wow! I am thrilled I stumbled upon this blog…I am a writer and I love to write – Working on my 1st book.


  • Alina - April 13, 2008 at 12:58 pm #

  • Hi!
    Thanks for the hints, they sound in same why easy to follow. I am wondering, lets say for example that you have the right story but you find it hard to write (for difrent reasons). Is there a place were 2 or 3 so called wanna be writers can meet and work together. If so, is there any special things that I need to be aware of?!? Kind of new of this as you might have noticed.
    Kind regards,
    Alina


  • SadieMae - April 15, 2008 at 2:21 pm #

  • Hello Scott. I must say while I was reading some of the comments I don’t understand how rude some people can be. ( Mr Unpublished but better than you? ) I mean what is that about?
    Anyway, my name is Sadie and I don’t care if your grammar and punctuation are wrong. The truly intelligent people will understand what you mean and overlook the error realizing we all make mistakes. Besides, if we got everything right we would have no need for editors and I’m sure that could affect ( or is it effect, I always get that one confused ) the economy, losing all those jobs for the truly grammar gifted.
    I don’t really have a point that I’m getting at here. Mostly just wanted to comment on the rude comment. I’m a writer, published but not proud in the arrogant sense. Happened upon your site and I like what I read. I have always been a writer and never leave the house without a pen and notebook. When the urge to write strikes I must be prepared. It happens so suddenly. I mainly write poetry and while it is work much of it happens spontaneously so I thought I would leave you with one. It is not published but it is copyrighted so I don’t worry about leaving it. If my punctuation and grammar are wrong it’ll just make it that much more difficult for the ignorant to understand.

    Time is a puzzling notion,
    surviving without our devotion.
    For ignoring the clock,
    never gave rise to shock
    or succeeded in stopping its motion.

    copyright 2006

    Sadie Mae


  • kelly - April 22, 2008 at 11:08 am #

  • Hi Scott,

    Excellent article. Your article was very useful and informative for me. Im in the beginning stages when it comes to writing, and i currently write on a couple of my blogs.


  • Pamela - April 28, 2008 at 5:02 am #

  • Scott, A site like this is great. It gives one hope that anyone with determination could possibly write a book. It makes you see that many everyday people have a story to tell. I do wonder why writing isn’t more lucrative?


  • Ron - May 12, 2008 at 1:48 pm #

  • Hello Scott,

    I very much liked the realist approach of your blog. It never helps to give people exactly what they want to hear if it is going to make them oblivious to what they should know to meet their goals.

    I have been blessed with many creative aspirations and inspirations, however, when I think on the inspirations to write, that God has provided for me to become his useful novelist, I can’t imagine expounding enough on the subjects behind the titles he gave me, to fill more than 20, or so, pages. Making this especially difficult for me, is an attention deficit problem. I am so easily distracted and often drop projects, to never again return to complete them, because I am easily bored. Motivation and excitement are things that have eluded me beyond my short attention span.

    God has found my bent personality as one to become a voice of change, outrage, and critical of the intentions of others in our society.(I think that I would be a good contender to voice against the super conservatives, like Rush Limbaugh, and the supreme court – re civil rights under the “Bill of Rights”)

    It is said that people are either Optimists or Pessimists, I consider myself a pragmatist. And,
    My best friends are common sense and reasoning.


  • Sean Britton - May 16, 2008 at 7:34 pm #

  • Writing, my friend, is not hard. There are secrets that still themselves within other worlds. To access these realms of knowledge you must work like mad. Write, fail and write again. I have never had a book published and have plenty of rejection slips. Thats ok. I see doors unlocking all the time. Fact is my friend, when you loose interest in a book, your audience does too. Plots are evil, just see your world and write about it. As a matter of a fact. Incomplete sentences are ok too. Just a matter of timing.


  • dave - May 17, 2008 at 1:09 am #

  • This article and blog is a great find for me. I agree writing is hard work, but over time it can become easy as the poster said above. These are some great tips Scott.


  • Nora L. Ghamari - May 17, 2008 at 12:10 pm #

  • Thank you Scott,

    Your article has inspired me in more ways that I can say here. I too, like many of the bloggers above, have ideas running in my mind. Your article points me in the right direction… and that is to start writing.

    It is fascinating to read how so many of us are out there… write away everyone! (get it:)).

    CJ of April 7th, 2008, I completely agree with your comment to Dear Grammar and Spelling Royalty.

    Thanks again, know that you have made a positive difference to many.


  • Gina - May 22, 2008 at 7:08 pm #

  • I’ve always had it in my heart to write. I think all the time, through what I’ve experienced I laugh out loud and think others would too. The first time I actually am doing research on how to get started. I always thought it would be a good idea to partner up with someone who could give structure to my ideas in order to capture interest to the readers and give meaning. Part of the reason I want to write a non fiction book is because my life is or was anything but ordinary and feel others may heal through my experiences that overcame adversity in their own lifes or are strugging to find a way. I think and probably with any writer you are human and actually wonder if your writings will be perceived as interesting, its a doggy dog world out there and so, its challenging to have that confidence in your messages through your own wisdom. I am lazy at times, but reading through these posts have enlightened me and I hope that I make my dreams come true. Its all about following through!


  • b - June 12, 2008 at 2:25 pm #

  • im only 13 & ive written two novels but i really want to get ‘em published
    so youre article helped me get back on track


  • Jamie - June 17, 2008 at 8:09 am #

  • When I was a freshman in college, one of my professors asked me what would I like to accomplish in life and I responded that I would like to write a book. I don’t know why I said that or where it came from – it just popped out of my mouth. (An unfortunate quirk of mine).

    I married and had children and barely had time to read a book much less write a book. But I love words – I love that by just using some words together or alone, it can cause you to imagine so many things. Imagine…I love that word too!

    The first thing that caught my attention when I read this blod was the title “management and creative thinking” – I know, from a practical standpoint that you would have to manage your time so you can write – but can you “manage” creative thinking? If you know how to do this, write a book about that please.

    I took up painting instead of writing – which, after you read this mosh-pit of words, is probably a wise choice.

    But,please all you writers – KEEP WRITING and keep dreaming and keep inspiring us all.


  • Jamie - June 17, 2008 at 8:11 am #

  • and I must correct my typo:

    “The first thing that caught my attention when I read this blod” (should be “blog”)

    Hey, I said I took up painting!


  • Carole - June 20, 2008 at 8:35 am #

  • Thank You

    An inspiring article, got my brain working.


  • Kitsune - June 20, 2008 at 1:45 pm #

  • Why hello there. You know, this is the first time I’ve read one of these ‘how to write-such in such’ articles all the way through. I’m glad you kept my interest. ^_^

    I actually have a fun way to begin writing something that I was taught by my Freshman English teacher. (In high school.) First you find a book, any book. From the bible to the dictionary. (I prefer the latter.) And then you open to a random page and pick five words. Then you make a story from that.

    I find it fun, and I thought I’d comment about it because I saw something similar in another article that was here.

    Or maybe I was just bored and wanted to rant. Who knows? =)


  • Sam - June 30, 2008 at 11:00 am #

  • I PUT MY ENTIRE COMMENT IN CAPS LOCK SO IT WILL GET YOUR ATTENTION. (please read this!!! and help!!!) OK. I’M A MINOR (14) AND I WROTE A BOOK. I STARTED WITH JUST A PEN AND PAPER AND I DON’T EVEN KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN WITH A PUBLISHER. CAN PUBLISHERS STEAL IDEAS OF BOOKS? DO I NEED MY BOOK COPYRIGHTED? (please don’t think I’m stupid!) WHILE I WAS DOING RESEARCH, I READ THAT MINORS CAN’T GET BOOKS PUBLISHED AND I WANT A KNOWN PUBLISHER TO READ MY BOOK. MY BROTHER, WHO IS ALSO A MINOR, IS WRITING THE SEQUEL TO MY STORY. HOW DO I GET A PUBLISHER TO NOTICE ME? YOUR ARTICLE WAS DISCOURAGING, BUT IT WAS AN EGO DEFLATION THAT I REALLY NEEDED. PUBLISHING MY BOOK IS GOING TO BE HARD, AND I NEED ADVICE FROM SOMEONE LIKE YOU, SOMEONE WHO’S BEEN THERE, DONE THAT IN THE WRITING BUSINESS.


  • David Pritzlaff - July 2, 2008 at 5:07 pm #

  • I enjoyed the article and the information presented. As I scrolled down the comments, however, I grew frustrated by the occasional negative perspective. Reminds me of people battling over which is more progressive or environmental and never making change.

    I have wanted to start a project for over a decade since the death of my mother. The time is now, I believe, as it consumes me. My motivation is not money but rather unraveling onto paper to clear my mind and allowing focus on my own family.

    Much appreciated and best of luck to all.


  • T A West - July 3, 2008 at 3:05 pm #

  • Thank you for the real life advice. I’m now motivated to write


  • CD - July 8, 2008 at 7:46 am #

  • It’s hard to get motivated and then once we do, we write, write, write, beacuse that’s what we enjoy!
    To get your work published?? Another story all together. But your best chances are to know what to present to a publisher. Know the industry!!! Learn how to “properly” put your work into a quality package. You will improve your odds fro success. At worst, you’ll self-publish a top notch book which will attract buyers attention.
    Check out http://abookinside.blogspot.com – It’s a information site with topic like ISBN numbers, outlining, book covers, how to write, publish, and sell books. You can sign up to get notified each time a new post is made on the site. It’s all free, good thing, because this info can get expensive!!!!


  • tentative no more! - July 14, 2008 at 10:40 am #

  • Hi Scott. Thanks so much for the article. I’ve wanted to write a book for so long. I’ve started….stopped….started again….stopped, etc. The hard work part doesn’t bother me. The satisfaction from hard work is often rewarding enough, but I was afraid of putting my blood, sweat and tears into something and then having it be impossible to publish because I’m a beginner. I’ve also wondered from time to time it it may be better to publish under a different name. My subject matter may cause me to lose friends. What do you think?


  • tentative no more! - July 14, 2008 at 10:42 am #

  • Hi Scott. In addition, good for you for being so civil to the unkind remarks of “unpublished” and kudos to the one who pointed out her or her grammatical error. To unpublished, it takes so much more effort in life to be nasty. I can only assume that you were having a bad day or a jealous moment. You’re forgiven.


  • Josh - July 31, 2008 at 2:42 pm #

  • Hello,

    I just happened to google search “how to write a book” and found this posting. Very interesting. I can’t say that I’m surprised about the difficulty of writing a book. Sucess always seems to go hand in hand with sacrifice and effort I think. I’m very interested in non-fiction adventure and exploration writings. I’ve read all the greats and many of the not so greats. More and more I feel curious about writing a book. I’m not looking for fame or fortune or money. I’m as happy as can be with my airline pilot career. I just have lots of time and ambition and it would be an excellent personal goal to achieve. I actually think if I wrote a book, I would rather prefer it to remain small. I collect rare and out of date books, and I’d like mine to be rare, regardless of it’s value. Anyways. Just wanted to say thanks for the info, and thanks to everyone else who posted. It was entertaining to read all the replies.

    Josh


  • Josh - July 31, 2008 at 2:47 pm #

  • Oh, and one more thing : To those who are “gramatically” correct, or won some spelling B in seventh grade. Keep in mind that nomatter what you think IS or ISN’T correct, writing is much like a language. There’s many dialects, different spellings, accents and slang all around the world. It doesn’t much matter to pick apart anybody for how they communicate. The last thing I’d ever want to do is be part of a perfectly uniform language or writing style. I prefer errors. I prefer people who ignor the geeks and their words. The best books I’ve ever read were by people who weren’t established authors, didn’t have a friggn’ clue what they were doing, poorly edited their own work but loved every moment of it…


  • ellykay1 - August 4, 2008 at 10:35 pm #

  • As so many people have commented, I too googled, how to write a book.
    This has also taught me another important component that Scott mentions.
    Getting it published, marketing the book and marketing yourself.
    The key is to draw the audience in. You have to get the audience to your book or article first…..Go ahead, write a crappy or mediocre book. Do it! There are lot’s of them out there that have been published and actually sell! The key is marketing the darn thing.
    Sell that ketchup popsicle to the eskimo.
    Ok, I’ll shut up now.
    Just wanted to point out that I had a reaffirmed epiphany on the importance of marketing and sales. (My current career)
    Great article by the way.
    Thanks!


  • Vanessa - August 9, 2008 at 9:23 pm #

  • This website is cool and I respect Scott Berkun but if anyone here wants a really good website on writing, editors, dialogue, narrative, etc Go to CaroClarke.com and click writing advice. I am 17 and working on my first novel. This website taught me a lot that I previously had no knowledge of. Everyone please visit this site, you will appreciate it. Perhaps the best writing advice site I have yet to visit.


  • Mike Oldfield - August 9, 2008 at 10:57 pm #

  • The grammer idiots make me want to throw up. The wannabe, I need shrink, pathetic writers do too.

    Writing a book is a business undertaking. If no one wants to read your book, your business will fail.

    If a market does want to read your book AND you know how to market, you will succeed. There are countless books and articles on how to market your books before, during and after they’re done.

    THE MAGIC BULLET OR POTION OR FORMULA IS SIT DOWN AND FINISH IT.

    Too many writers want someone else to pay for their “no market” writing output.

    If you have valuable information, cash it in.

    The way you write a book is to sit down, spend about 12 hours pefecting a table of contents. Go relax for the rest of the day. Go to bed. Get up and start writing every day until you are done.

    When you are done, you contact the folks clamoring for new information on your subject and send them a book and press release. If they don’t respond. You wasted your time on a subject no one cares about or it sucks really bad.

    Why did you do that?

    Mike Oldfield

    P.S. Valuable information that your merket is clamoring to have will forgive you for less than perfect grammer.

    If they know what you meant when you are through writing your sentence, communication has taken place.

    Copywriters have written millions of lines of improper grammer that has sold trillions of dollars in product.

    The Grammer crowd is pissed because what they latched onto as the most important priority got them mostly nowhere.

    Editors are too often bitter wannabe, couldn’t get published myself, mean people. They’re critics who can’t do it themselves.

    Editors can ruin books. Editors can make them better. Watch for an attitude people. If they have one then they suck like all other mean people.

    If they don’t then they are probably a pretty good editor and can make a book better.

    Grammer zealots need to get off their high horse and find something worthwhile to be pissed about.

    Billion dollar industries that flourish using IMPROPER GRAMMER. Advertising, Hip Hop Music, Reality TV and All Shows using slang of the year, comedy of every kind and so on.

    Apparantly society has decided you should be told to take your grammer and shove it in your high horses arse!


  • Tom - August 13, 2008 at 5:57 pm #

  • Hi, im a newbie. I’ve been thinking for years about wanting to write a book. But not just a book, a human nature/my opinion and views about that and society in general. I’ve had some hard life experiences and some serious soul serching epics. I think i have a special gift that needs to be put out into peoples minds, like it or hate it. what resources should i seek and what could you suggest i do to track my thoughts and keep them from turning into garble..help greatly appreciated.


  • Hannah - August 13, 2008 at 11:09 pm #

  • Hi there. I’m Hannah. I’m fourteen years old and I have a book on the way. It is called Possessed: A New Genesis.

    I was wondering if a minor could get a book published. if not then I am screwed for another 4 years =P

    Thanks for any help.

    peaceloveandhannah

    -Hannah


  • ian. - August 23, 2008 at 7:26 am #

  • Im young im not going to lie to you im only 18 but i have gotten this great idea for a book. i have began writing and im lost for the moment. its a great plot and its vary interesting. ive shown it to a few people at school to get there opinion and now the whole student body is awaiting a final draft. but thats my problem thats going to take several months and i dont think they can understand that. i need someone i can talk one on one with to discuss my book if you have anyone in mind please email me. my email is ian.p.cloud@gmail.com i dont get on the computer much and would appreciate it if you emailed it to me rather then post it. thank you for your time.


  • vinod ratti - August 28, 2008 at 3:25 am #

  • Thank you indeed for the inspiration – ANYONE CAN WRITE A BOOK. Should I ever complete the same and get it published I will remember your article as the “culture” that was essential to set the “yogurt” ( book)


  • Mel - August 29, 2008 at 1:59 pm #

  • Thank you for the article. But can a 16-year-old be able to write a book too?


  • J. Red Horse - September 3, 2008 at 7:51 am #

  • I have noticed a lot of the comments left here make no mention to “Passion” when writing on the subject of compiling a book.

    I was once told to be an effective writer that the author should write their first book about what they know, and to tell their story with passion, a passion for the subject at hand.

    I believe this too be very fundamental, after all if the writer is dead pan regarding his / her feelings towards the books intended subject than who would expect the reader to get excited about the content?

    I’m about 100 pages into my first book, I’ve read more sites about writing than I can recall and most have common denominators and these are the “secrets” new authors or writers should be collecting.

    If I visit 50 sites on writing and 30 of them mention having a passion about my subject than I write these down, these become the building blocks for my guidelines and I keep them handy during the process.

    Now staying enthusiastic about your subject is a whole other story, it is easy to get that burst of inspiration when we are starting out but just by having to organize details, clarifying our thoughts and putting our individual style into our writing it is easy to get bogged down and lose track of the flow of the story.

    I’ve found that when this happens it is time to write a few pages in an inspirational setting, if your spirit gets recharged , lets say sitting by the Ocean than go there and try writing a few pages.

    I find my imagination is at it’s best in an environment that puts me in my story, for example, I’m writing a story about my past, about my journey through some very dark stuff and it is about Spiritual redemption so when I get feeling as though the energy for my story is getting flat I take a 2 hour ride back too the town that all this happened in, I sit in the town park and the memories and the inspiration come rushing out of me.

    PASSION, PASSION, PASSION about your subject is a direct link too relaying the story and its feelings too the reader.

    I’ve been keeping journals through out my life and have piles of them dating back 20 or more years and when I can not recall details about an event I can go back too that date and relive the event.

    I know many do not have the luxury of having their lives in the form of reference journals but we all have photos of the past or know where the people are who can fill in some long forgotten details of an event and we can fill in the blanks with a letter, email or phone call.

    We must get creative with our research methods and if we can keep our story laced with a high level of passion than we can come out of the experience with a good story to tell.

    I could go on and on but I’ve got to get back too my book, thanks for some good advice here and the one thing that I did find here as my nugget of truth is that “writing a book is not for lazy people”, it is indeed hard work but well worth it when the next generations can read about your journeys.

    Thank You,
    J. Red Horse.


  • Matthew L - September 7, 2008 at 1:25 pm #

  • Thank you for an honest insight giving others some hope to try and write. I started writing, I dont have the grammer, spelling, or the skills needed but it is important for me see mine finished. I write as often as I can, see that it is a ton of work, but determined… thank you if only for the hope.

    Unpublished…reading your post made me want to pee on you then….


  • Jack T. - September 10, 2008 at 4:30 pm #

  • OMG, this site is pathetic! No, no, back the truck up. Not the site. Some of these letters are what’s pathetic.

    Listen to me. Are you hearing this? No, your life’s story will not sell because you can’t write and you’re boring, PERIOD. You know I’m right, don’t you? It has NOTHING to do with whether you are a wordsmith, or grammatically correct, or a polished writer. It’s because you’re obsessed with the words I and me, and the truth is nobody cares about you or your life’s story. Why is it that people want to write and read about themselves? You want to escape your mundane existence and you see writing as the way out. Forget it. You’re boring and your writing is boring, ZZZZZZ.

    Wilbers says contrary to public opinion, good writers are not born. You have to work hard at writing until it’s your craft. And Mennis says you have to find your voice, whatever that is.

    I was on board a schooner running out of Maine. My GF came over and said this 76 yr old man wanted to talk to me about writing. I asked her how he knew I was a writer and she said she’d mentioned it in passing to his ladyfriend. Okay, okay. I looked at the guy. The lines on his face said he was all of 76, but the rest of him didn’t fit.

    He said his name was Robert Bruce. By the end of the three-day sail we were calling him Robert the Bruce. Think Mel Gibson if you don’t know who that is. Robert was a farmer from Kansas who decided one day he wanted to see the ocean. He’d worked his farm his entire life, and had never seen the Atlantic or the Pacific Oceans, or the Gulf for that matter. His wife had died and he had nothing to keep him in Kansas. He had my attention.

    So he sold his farm. And all of his possessions. And drove to Maine, where he bought a sailboat. Not just any sailboat. He bought a 36 foot, two-masted ketch. If you know anything at all about sailing you know how hard it is to single-hand a ketch, that is, sail it by yourself. He then proceeded to sail it down the East Coast, around Florida, and into the Gulf of Mexico. I said that was fascinating, and I thought it would make a great book when he decided to get around to writing it-a book about a farmer who knew nothing about sailing or the dangers of sailing.

    Oh, he’d already written a 400 page book about it he said. He wrote it while he was doing it! I said, oh, then what did he want to talk to me about? He asked if I’d read it and tell him what he needed to do to get it published. He said Soundings Magazine had already published parts of it-the parts where he’d almost died from the experience. Turned out his GF was a millionaire he’d met on his personal Oddysey. They were preparing to sail across the Atlantic to Europe. His was an amazing story made all the more interesting by his larger-than-life exploits and his passion for life. Robert started writing at 76 and he’d already found his voice.

    So, what YOU need to do is to find your voice. Forget about grammar. What is it that is driving you to write. Learn how to express those same emotions in your story. Easier said than done. My advice is to start by trying your hand at writing a memoir. It’s the easiest type of writing to do because a memoir can evoke both deep-seated painful memories and joyful memories. People want passion in their lives and they’re looking to you to give it to them vicariously. Good luck.


  • Malcolm Thompson - September 12, 2008 at 8:51 am #

  • I’m only sixteen, and writing is starting to look like a high probability as a career…

    i only have one question. how do you keep motivated? its extremely easy for me to get side tracked…


  • Melisa Williamson - September 14, 2008 at 6:27 pm #

  • This article is so helpful.

    I am about “30%” into a story I really believe in and I’m glad to know it’s hard work for everyone! It makes my cynical little black heart beat real big gushy beats so my cheeks turn red.

    Also- (in response to probably a really old comment by something like, “unpublished and better than you”??)
    Knowing when to use then or than is a lesser skill than things like being a visionary, or an artist, or just plain clever. Sadly the latter is harder to teach and therefore less common.


  • Foxi - September 16, 2008 at 4:59 pm #

  • I liked this article. It was rather encouraging. Also a comment here said not to worry about typos, just churn it out, that too was encouraging as I am getting a bit bogged down with perfection


  • Aristidis - September 17, 2008 at 5:23 am #

  • thank you for the advice,it helped me a lot.
    it gave me the self esteem to start my book.
    i would like to comment on a person who left his stupid and meaningless comment on the 16th trying to show that he is good in english grammar and he thinks he is better than the adviser…you are right about the grammar,but let me tell you something my friend,your comment shows that you don’t have the ability and required brain potential to become a writer…to write a book is not about grammar its about imagination.next be carefull with your comments..thank you


  • Angel MEG - September 17, 2008 at 9:37 pm #

  • Hi, Scottberkun!=) What a beautiful post! As a neophyte, I feel like writing more… and more! =)

    Stay on top! Godspeed! =)

    Lovelots,

    Angel MEG
    Laguna, Philippines


  • Penny Weigel - September 20, 2008 at 2:40 pm #

  • Aloha, I moved to Maui, built a house and opened a B&B with the too typical, wonderful vision of what being an Innkeeper is. I could not have been more wrong. I often have guests at my breakfast table tell me that it has always been their dream to open a B&B, HA! I think to myself, “it’s not a dream, it’s a nightmare”. When I am comfortable with a guest,(usually those who are staying for more than just a few days), and we seem to think alike and hit it off, I will sometimes confide in them when they ask me what it is REALLY like. I approach it with a massive amount of sarcasm and tell them stories that always surprise them, and either horrify, or surprise them. I admit I enjoy telling stories and the attention, praise and ,yes,sympathy I get. It seems like small payback for having dealt with the actual event or person,(s), I am telling them about. Almost, without exception, at least one guest out of 6-8 will say before leaving the table, “you should write a book”. They often ask me to tell another story, but, like I used to do with my children at bedtime, I have to explain that it is getting late and I have lots to do that day, (it still surprises me that they seem to think that once breakfast is pau,(done), I am pretty much pau for the day as well). I have had two published authors stay with me who have encouraged me to put it on paper, and one, Gary Shepard, (A News Correspondant Goes Sailng), who was adamant that I should tackle a book and do it now while I still have a smart ass attitude about what it is like and that infamous 1% of guests who inevitably lead an Innkeeper to retirement sooner than they anticipated when they first conceptualized their own dream of having a B&B. While 99% of my guests are interesting, considerate and CAN read and follow instructions, the stress and frustration at the other 1% is cumulative and compounds itself more frequently as time goes by. O.K. so blah, blah, blah, what I am trying to figure out is how to format a book about my experiences – I didn’t keep a diary but do have an amazing memory from years as a builder, nurse, mom, and of course waitress. I have kept a sh…t list as well, (never take these people again), and have kept notes in my Guest Tracker program, (a reservations program), on every difficult, stupid, labor intensive, deceptive, law breaking, wife beating, and/or drunk or druggee that has stayed with me. As you can see by now, (god will this woman ever get to the point)?, I am a bit of a loudmouth and do go ON and ON once I get going. I’m that person about which one person would whisper to another, “she is a bit of a talker”, a gross understatementfor sure. I have written several editorials in the Lahaina News and sometimes use my own name. O.K. O.K.- I agree that if you have something to say you should always use your own name, however, there is a saying here, “when you live on an island – don’t make waves”. I’m so glad that by the time I heard it, I had already come to the same conclusion, afterall Hawaii is not really part of the United States and I could probably write another book about what it is like to move here and build a house. I built homes on the mainland before I became a nurse, (and still hired a builder here), but didn’t know that the level of incompetance is mind boggling and that it would take years! to accomplish here what I used to finish there in 3 months. I eventualy fired the builder, quit both my jobs and finished the house myself. I am also wondering if I shouldn’t integrate the two stories? I’m sure your most often asked question is “how do I start”, well, add mine to the list. If you decide not to write back, I will understand, I know that I do “go on” and probably don’t really deserve an answer. In fact after re-reading the above I can see how one would be just as irritated as I often am with my 3rd and last proffesion, (not counting writer, to even respond BUT I hope you do! Penny


  • Jack T. - September 21, 2008 at 6:32 am #

  • I found your post interesting. You have the makings of a book, Penny, BUT… you still haven’t found your voice. Why are you so hard on yourself? We know why you’re hard on others, you hold them to your own standards. Are they really your standards though, or expectations laid on you by others, strict parents, teachers, spouses.

    Maybe you suffered a traumatic, life-changing event? The people who influenced your actions also carry their own personal baggage, and they work hard to hide it from you thru their own self-denial, just as you’re doing now. Sometimes when you go back and examine their lives it’s a revelation. Epiphanies can lead to a softening of the heart when we realize we are the way we are because our lives have revolved around someone else’s weaknesses and expectations.

    Why are you so driven? Why can’t you find peace and enjoyment in your work? Is it really all about the evil guests/bad customers? Or maybe you’re encouraging failure because you don’t feel you deserve success? Why weren’t you happy with your jobs (you’ve had a few good ones)or where you lived? When you can answer these questions honestly then you’ll be ready. Unless of course all you want to write is light comedy, then you’re ready now…


  • Penny Weigel - September 21, 2008 at 2:19 pm #

  • Hello and Thank you for your comments. Your right on! I did suffer an life changing event and my life did and still does revolve around it to some degree, and certainly as far as my children from my first marriage are concerned. How do you explain that you are who you are because of their fathers actions and the way he tormented and mis treated you without turning them against you. My mom once said something about my dad,(mild in comparison), after he died and I was livid. I didn’t want to hear it and hated her for saying anything about it although she was just trying to explain a bad choice she had made and that I was questioning. Some secrets have to be kept at all cost, not to protect him but to protect them and me against the hatred they would feel toward me if I were ever to tell them that the dad they love was not the dad I was married to. I hate to have this “baggage” to keep from them. It is a burden. I have been tempted over the years, but have always taken the high road. Just a few months ago my youngest son asked me if I had ever cheated on his dad. I aksed my son why in the world he would ask me that, he just replied, “curious”. It was all I could do not to tell him more than NO – but why don’t you ask him the same question? cheated and worse! Still I stuck it out even after he asked me to become a “swinger” and although I refused, went into the ladies room, (of the topless place he had taken me to celebrate MY birthday), and threw up. From that point on I knew that if I could ever figure out how to support myself and the kids I would leave him. It was his idea, once all the kids were in school, that I should go back and get a degree and subsequently a good job. I loved nursing, but after 17 years in Oncology and the ICU, felt I needed a change. I did divorce him during that time however. Prior to nursing, I designed and built homes and enjoyed it very much the bottom fell out of the construction and real estate market where I lived. Ultimately, your right – I am driven, and I don’t feel I deserve to be successful, self denial has been my thing for years, mostly out of guilt that I didn’t stick it out no matter what and the continuing problems it has caused my kids. This is still the hardest job I ever had though. Some days I’m sure my tongue is bloody from biting it and not saying what I am really thinking when guests ask me a stupid question or make a request,this morning – (would you mind running these post cards to the P.O. for me tomorrow?”. I wanted to say, “YES – I would – I am an Innkeeper – I work hard all day, I don’t run your errands, you have a car – the P. O. is two blocks away), and I showed you where the mailbox is yesterday”. The difference between a B&B and my nursing career, (or any other job), is that at the end of the day you get to go home! I am required to live on property AND in the same building. It is like sharing my house with that relative you really don’t like but can’t ask to leave. It often goes on all day and all night. Your home should be a place you go to after work so you can relax, revitalize, feel safe and hide from the frustration and problems at work. A place where you prepare mentaly for the next day, where you don’t have to be “on” all the time. We sometimes got patients we would flip a coin for – your turn, BUT at the end of the day, I got to go home! Wow, spilling my guts. I beleive too that I have the makings of a good book. I am trying to figure out what approach to take, how to lay it out. I know some things my readers won’t beleive and that bothers me, (yes the guildt thing again), and I don’t want to offened all the great guests I have had, some will be friends forever. I don’t want them to think my affection for them was not genuine, it was. I am driven, I always set a new personal goal for myself every year – this year I am teaching myself how to play a musical instrument and want to try painting again, (at one time I was pretty good), AND want to at least think about and research the possiblity of writing a book someday. I appreciate your time and attention very much – your very intuitive and just reading and writing to you are very theraputic. I guess if I can identify my own weakness’ and know where they came from, it will help me find my true self and allow me to write better. Penny


  • mrwriter - September 21, 2008 at 7:59 pm #

  • it’s easier today to self-publish than ever. Really.


  • JM Calderon - September 22, 2008 at 5:34 pm #

  • Just Woke up And want to be a Famous Writer

    Oh!.. But Today I did my homework before starting the next big failure of my life….Some how My prayers have been answered, Yet In a very mysterious way. I think some how this time, I won’t waste my time starting something that seems so hard to do. I Usually wake up and want to do something new in my life, no profession was ever safe until today. Not sure this time The appetite to became a writer, and self publisher came to me while doing what i do and some how enjoy doing best, but after reading Your interesting and at times sad post, I came to realised, that Fame and money as always comes at a cost, and usually takes very hard work. why is the word talent inside my head. Well next time I visit “THE THRONE” I’ll try not to fly so high, regardless of what the left side of my brain tells me..Oh! it never changes, and this time I actually know for sure, I have something everyone would die to read, but sadly it will never make it over there.


  • Jack T. - September 23, 2008 at 5:38 am #

  • It’s amazing how things lose their importance when viewed from another perspective. I’d give a million dollars to be able to walk to the post office, and I used to be a runner before a stroke left me paralyzed.

    At the same token, I can walk again now, just not too far. A woman in my apt building commented one day to her friend how sad it must be to live with my condition for a man who had obviously lived an active life. After I bit her head off no one felt sorry for me again. Why should they? I don’t feel sorry for myself, and I have every intention of running again someday.

    Wake up. You’re a brilliant lady with so much to be thankful for. Take back control of your life, dear.


  • J-Dog - October 1, 2008 at 1:28 pm #

  • Yo very blunt and effective info nice, I am 14 and Im writing 3 stories all novels and the idea behind them I think is good and Im itching to start writing but I want to plan it first because I don’t want another good but not complete story.
    Whats the best way to plan a storyline on paper ?


  • Annie - October 2, 2008 at 4:44 pm #

  • Hello! I just wanted to say thank you for helping out the novice author like myself by posting all of this information. I think it is a great idea for authors to be able to communicate and help one another out with writing issues. I know that there will always be the cynical pessimistic bully on some of these blogs and cites and that is to be expected. I just hate to let them get away with their rude and always crude words. The post on August 16th by “Never been published but better than you” sounds a lot like a snobby jaded jerk that needs to get over themselves. Let it also be known that writing is not always about grammar. In fact I can’t count how many grammatical errors I have probably made just now in this paragraph. Writing is creative and an art. And if you go by the book all of the time…and never think outside of the box then ya you will never get published. So you hypocritical pessimistic writer out there….you need to get off this website and take yourself somewhere else…most likely not in the writing world. Good luck with your cynical points of view. Let the rest of us dream and share positive advice that is ACTUALLY worthwhile.


  • Tina - October 4, 2008 at 8:14 pm #

  • Hey, I am starting to write and I read your artical and I have hope in finding a publisher. My dream is to have atleast one of my works publish and to write a novel. Your site is extremely inspiring. To all those jerks out there who write nothing but junk on this site, get over yourself and get back to earth.


  • Grace - October 5, 2008 at 12:24 am #

  • I have always had the desire to write and finally decided to give it a serious try. I have been a stay at home mom for the last 20 years. Now that my children are grown I have to much time alone and its depressing.I do have a small collection of poetry I wrote over the years but I want to write a novel. I have no degrees in english, actually I dropped out of school in the 9th grade. What I’m trying to ask here, Is there a magic pencil at the end of a book? Someone who reads it and makes corrections for the writer? I know I have the heart and dreams to write but I’m afraid I’m lacking in the grammar department.


  • Danny O. Snow - October 9, 2008 at 7:00 am #

  • Danny O. Snow here, Dan Poynter’s cohort at U-Publish.com, a popular resource for self-publishers. I just want to add one quick note about self-publishing: not only is it faster, cheaper and easier than ever to self-publish a book today, but also to PROMOTE it outside of traditional book industry channels.

    Let’s take Dan Poynter’s “Self-Publishing Manual” for example. Sure, it’s widely available from bookstores and libraries, but Dan gives up 50% of the cover price (plus the cost of printing) when readers buy from these outlets… and bookstores reserve the right to routinely return any unsold copies for a full refund.

    On the other hand, Dan once left a carton with a local copy center on consignment. Apparently writers do a lot of copying, because the books soon sold out, and the store asked for more.

    Outlets like this often feel that 30% is a generous discount, and many have never even heard the word “return.”

    So kudos to Scott for encouraging writers to self -publish — and let me encourage them to bypass customary book trade channels and focus on outlets that are far more numerous, easier to target, often pay more (and pay faster) with fewer if any returns.


  • NANCY SLOCUM - October 10, 2008 at 4:02 pm #

  • I’m very close to sending my 1st manuscript/sample chapter to the publisher in hopes for publishing, and this may sound like a dumb question, but the editor requested (no typed scripts). I’m sorry if missed something, but i’ve asked several people what they mean by that and have had no response. Also I should have it on certain paper and font. could you give your thoughts and opinion on this would sure appreciate it. Thanks Nancy S.


  • Brittany...the smart ass - October 13, 2008 at 11:52 am #

  • OK, “unpublished_but_better_than_you”,
    grammar is not a reflection of how good a writer is. The writing in this blog was not bad. Everyone has grammar screw ups in their first draft. I’m sure this wasn’t the first draft but; I wrote a creative writing assignment and after submitting it I went back and still made grammar and spelling changes. You know what…I still got an A on that project that I spent 4-5 hours (tops) on because the writing was good.


  • mary - October 14, 2008 at 6:43 am #

  • Are there any huge limitations in writing a book? I’m trying to write a book and i keep having to stop and ask myself questions. Am i allowed to use real cities? can I use the actual name of the tiny little dress shop in downtown New Albany, Mississippi? I want to keep writing but i keep getting scared I’m doing things wrong. What are my limitations!?


  • filipina - October 17, 2008 at 6:12 am #

  • To the writer of the article: Thanks so much for the great advice. This is actually the first article I’ve read regarding writing a book and I find it really helpful.

    I had fun reading comments at the same time I learned a few things. As I was reading some, I half-expected to see another comment by unpublished. Goodness, I never knew someone would fuss about something as petty as a typographical error.

    Anyway, I am a fifteen-year old highschool student who’s heading off to college next year. Writing a book has been in my mind for a long time. The problem is, I have the same problem as the other aspiring writers: How do I start one? I have been reading a lot of books recently, mostly novels to enjoy it and also to learn how novels are written. Yes, it’s true. Writing is hard work. I was only writing a book report a while ago and I’m complaining! Well, writing could be fun if what you’re writing about is fun too. Anyway, I really want to write a book and I need all the help that I can get. I don’t have to hurry into this actually so I’ll do a bit more of reading and research. If anybody knows where I can get the help I need, please do tell.

    Just to share a piece of my mind, here’s my idea of why you write a book:
    You don’t write one because you want to earn money. Yes, many do it for a living but they don’t do it entirely for that purpose. They write because it is their passion – it is what they want to do. It is what inspires them. I admit, I once thought of writing a book because I wanted to be rich. I came from a poor family – and still am. I wanted to write a book some time ago because of that reason. But somehow, if you look at it on a different perspective, would you write a book the same way as you would not having it as a primary reason? You write a book because you want to put your ideas on paper which could be read by several other people who would like and agree with what you think.(well, not all the time people would like what you write. Take unpublished for example.) You write a book because you enjoy doing it so. This is just my idea, not of great importance but I am glad I am able to write this. Somehow writing what you feel seems to be a hard thing to do. I am still young and I am hoping I would improve in time. Thanks a lot,..


  • mj - October 26, 2008 at 8:03 pm #

  • The first is write the beginning.
    write the end and then fill in the blanks !


  • Derek Gillespie - October 31, 2008 at 1:54 pm #

  • Thank you for this blog. I have started to write a book called dragon savior. I kept on thinking that, i wasn’t going to ge it done in time, or that it was to short to actually to be called a novel. Then I read this, it sparked the bomb to the words, I CAN DO IT, thank you so much.


  • Aidetsjed - November 8, 2008 at 3:38 pm #

  • Hello! simply super!


  • Bill Jones - November 9, 2008 at 8:25 am #

  • As I am on my ??th pg. (37,000 wds) of personal history, and I find my self digging around in scribbles from yesteryear to verify, and clarify what I’m trying to get across about the evils of the “Run-a-way child running wild” syndrome,
    I got to thinking about,not thinking about the very things you said not to think about. The riggors of what to do next, I’ll wait and cross that bridge when I get there. Thanks for the advice, I’m fairly sure I’m on the right path.
    And as I’ve figured out early that I am not the great writer of style and flair that got me in this mess in the first place. I’ve re-titled this project “Purge and Wipe”. I’m determined to get it done, get it done right, and be done with it.
    And that will free me up for the guitar lessons…
    Look for me soon at fine bookstores everwhere…
    “Puzzle Pieces” …back to the grind.


  • Katherine - November 10, 2008 at 2:33 pm #

  • I think you have an amazing article. I infact am staring a book and aspire to have it published one day Yet, i am only 15 so that may have to wait. My book’s title is “Following Jane” If you happen to see it one day.(I hope so) I will continue to work on it. The twilight series inspired me to write my own book and still does. Everyday that I write it is thanks to stephanie meyer.


  • Tim Forrest - November 11, 2008 at 9:14 am #

  • I’ve always wanted to write a book.
    I think I can.
    I’ll start now.


  • Bernie - November 13, 2008 at 7:50 am #

  • Hi everyone, I’ve been writting since I could write. I’ve even written books gone to kinko’s and given them away to the person who inspired me to write it. I write because I want people to read my stories. Of course they are children’s stories, but either way I’d like them read for more than the one person I wrote the book for. So my advice, just keep writing. One day I’ll be published, not now, but one day. I have faith. I just want one story read by kids everywhere. Then one of my life goals will be completed.


  • Lynda - November 16, 2008 at 8:38 pm #

  • Quite honestly, I find writing a book to be very overwhelming. I have been writing about my experiences as a new teacher. I have had a truly unique experience with a child. I began writing not to publish, but so that I don’t forget the experience. I feel that what I have is actually pretty good and could lend itself to being published at some point. How many typed pages should I have before trying to publish it? I still work with this student and the family so it is a work in progress and hopefully will continue for many years.


  • David - November 24, 2008 at 8:10 pm #

  • I sure appreciate the insight. I am not looking to get wealthy as in the money aspect. I am looking to write and publish a book or maybe we should call it a autobiography. See I was abused as a child. and for the most part I have moved on and I am successfull not just in business but in life now. But as you can imagine, I am still and most likely will have to deal with the pain for years to come. But I want to write and publish my life on paper for not only therapy, but, I want to hopefully reach people that have gone through abuse and don’t know how to move on or to reach those are going through it at the time. And show them that they have the strength to make it stop.


  • Brianna - November 27, 2008 at 8:07 am #

  • Thank you for all the infomation.I’m really looking forward to be an author.I really like reading books.I’m 10 years old,and my name is Brianna Scott.I’m in 5th grade.People are really suprized how much I am reading.Again,thanks for all your help. :)


  • Xana - December 6, 2008 at 6:11 pm #

  • hallelujah, thank you so much.

    it doesn’t matter whatever I read (books, Internet, whatever) about this topic, information is, usually, useless.

    and this was actually pretty useful.


  • Leslie - December 7, 2008 at 7:46 pm #

  • This article is refreshing! I’ve been writing sparatically for about a year now and realized within the last couple weeks I need to set a goal for myself, write everyday (like it or not somedays!) And work equally as hard when – have a manuscript ready for a publisher. I’m not hoping to become famous in the next 5 years. Published? Yes. Famous? Not necisarily.
    I recently had a family member comment on the “easy, lazy writer’s life” and I let her know this is an art form requiring self-discipline and hard work. In ways, my 9-5 job is lazier. Someone else dictates that structur to me. My writing schedule rests solely upon my shoulders.
    I am very pleased to have found this article. I realized I don’t have an unrealistic expectation of being getting published. And it’s nice to know I am no insane for the painstakingly tedious process I am undertaking.

    Leslie


  • Misty - December 12, 2008 at 5:21 am #

  • Hey. Nice article. It feels like this article is helpful, especially the sensible comments. But I have a few problems. I’m 13 years old, in eighth grade, and I’m afraid to show people my work. Anybody else have a family member constantly criticizing your work? Because my grandmother does it so often that my writing self-esteem has gone down the drain. Another problem is that even if I am motivated, when I start, I get a writer’s block even before I write the first word! Also, right at that time, it feels as if my idea is the most cliche idea EVER!!! To tell the truth, I get my motivations from reading good books…. But anyways, did I mention that this is a GREAT article?


  • Stormy - December 14, 2008 at 9:45 pm #

  • First of all, why are all the comments above not in order by date? they appear scrambled and not in the correct order. If you would, please fix this as its hard to follow the commentary.

    Second, Im now thinking of writing my first book. When I was a young man, I went through a period where I was a bit of a hermit, and spent all my time reading mythology, and fantasy and history and anthropology. I should have been out dating and drinking and partying….but I was pretty depressed and miserable at the time to do much. I think I was searching for something spiritual. I started reading allot of weird stuff on Celtic Mythology and it got me to researching in the libraries about various ancient stories written down over the ages by many groups of people all over the world.

    Long story short, I became very moved and affected by many of these mythologies. Allot of them, especially the Greek and Irish stories where very stirring to me, and made me see something in story-telling that mankind had but lost somewhere in time. So, I decided to start collecting these tales and writing them down and writing my own book. I got 5 or 6 large notebooks filled up with a complete novel, but never got around to writing it out and revising it.

    So, now in my 40’s I have decided to revisit these stories and my writings. I find that when you are young, you have a passion and very vibrant imagination. Now that Im older, I see how much I have lost since my youth. But glad that I still have my inspirations written down. My idea now, is to compile these very large book and get it written out and published somehow. Its a very strange book and not like anything out there. My question is, what is the market like for fiction and fantasy mythological books like this? Is it a waste of time, as so many people have done this before, or is my project and approach sound unique to anyone? thanks


  • Samantha Morgan - December 17, 2008 at 11:46 am #

  • hello i wonder if anyone can help me? I was thinking of starting to write a book but wondered if there was any point due to the subject in hand. The book would be based on my personal experiences but in a more light hearted way. It would be about my pregnancy and birth experience.

    I have had a really unlucky year, and falling pregnant was the last thing i was expecting to happen. I wasn’t even in a relationship and had infact just ended one. one that i thought was ment to be.. ment to be for a very long time. everything was going happily untill the day i found out the shocking news that my partner had been seeing one of the women i work with,and i was helping to train. For quite some time to i might add.

    I went round my very close friends house to have a moan, wine was opened, long side a fair few others… one thing led to another… and now i have my beautifull baby boy!!
    After a horrible pregnancy, … doing it alll on my own… and having no where to live,a horrible birth (which im sure most mothers can relate to) things are finally sorting them self out and i am begining my life as a mummy. single handly but worth all the hard times i have been through the reactions of people around me and peoples attitude towards my pregnancy and the situation i found myself in.
    Now i am a very proud mummy of a beautifull little boy who is my world, My life, my little miracle!!
    Things happen for a reason and i would love to share my experience with anyone who would like to read about it.

    It would be a book full of humour, depth, emotion and little situations im sure most women/girls have found them self in at some point in there life. I would be really greatfull if someone could get back to me and advise me if it is a book worthy of starting or just a simple idea that should be dismissed.
    I would be greatfull of anyones opinion positive and negative. Thank you in advance for your help
    kind regards.

    S Morgan


  • Tiberman Sajiwan Ramyead - December 24, 2008 at 12:57 pm #

  • Hello all – I have researched for around a decade on my subject (my birthplace in the south of Mauritius and the its whole district – Savanne). Now just after retirement (I was the Director of Environment)I have started the writing. I published some extracts from my manuscripts in Mauritius Times for about three years. The response from readers brought about the realisation of a public secret: simplicity of language AND sincerity. Both are difficult to attain. Now at 65, that’s my battle – simple language. Few writers debates mention this. I have also come across a number of Mauritian ‘writers’ who would be happy if I did’nt write.
    I have also learnt NOT to worry about the publishing. Cross that bridge when you reach it.
    Tiberman Sajiwan Ramyead – Mauritius


  • vallory - December 27, 2008 at 8:43 pm #

  • Hi! I’m fifteen.
    My cousin and I started writing a story just to experiment.
    I am finding that I really love the story, the plot, the characters, etc., and because I know the story can be great I want to make it the best it can possibly be.
    I consider myself a decent writer, but I know I have a lot to learn and want to improve my writing skills.
    Any advice?


  • Da Wei - December 31, 2008 at 7:56 pm #

  • Scott,

    Thanks for an interesting article and free flow of thoughts and information that it has inspired.
    Did you create “Unpublished but better than you” as a dramatic foil? He’s served his purpose and the time is ripe for his demise, preferably in a particularly gruesome and painful manner.
    You have responded particularly well, by not responding! Is this leading by example about criticism? [Accept valid input, ignore the bulk, and move on?] Thx again. :)


  • Darthness - January 6, 2009 at 1:17 pm #

  • I have just started writing a book. I’ve started writing all sorts of different books, but I always have stopped on a certain page, read it over, and gave up. Each time, I tell myself I have to do this, and get it finished, but each time, i find them stupid. I’m only thirteen, and I love writing fantasy books. This article really helped me out, and I decided that I will finish this one, even if it’s the most stupid book on the planet.
    -Darth


  • Charles A. Miller - January 6, 2009 at 8:50 pm #

  • I write for a living, and I’ve always considered writing to be the easiest profession that makes the most money.

    The great secret is knowing that 99% of the reading public are fucking morons who wouldn’t know shit writing from “good writing” or “great writing.” Take a look around the Internet — those who infest the World Wide Web comprise a mere 20% of the entire human population; and these Web denizens are largely self-absorbed and undereducated assholes. Their grammar sucks, their spelling is atrocious, and they labor under the delusion that posting incomprehensible gibberish on a message board is the same as “writing.”

    This bodes ill for the remaining 80% of the human population, who are even less educated than those who can afford personal computers.

    However, once you become cognizant of just how fucking stupid are the majority of people, you have cleared the most formidable obstacle to writing professionally. The trick is to WRITE FOR MORONS. I don’t care if you’re an English major, you’re never going to make the big money until you start writing for 5th and 6th graders. That’s the AVERAGE reading comprehension level in the Western world.

    Certainly, you can bust your ass researching and writing some tome of transcendental truth, or composing an exposé of political injustice, but for all your effort you’re only going to sell two dozen books. If you intend to become wealthy through writing, then you must set your sights on the bigger, broader audience… You must write for morons.


  • Shelley in Reno - January 10, 2009 at 8:34 pm #

  • Scott, the article was wonderful! thank you

    I am a novice writer who is taking the quantum leap at writing a book.I have a interesting idea, and a great beginning, but I need input to make it work. In a nutshell I am writing a book about men. I need to find a place on the internet where I can post a questionnaire targeting women’s respones generaly but it would not be discriminative to men. Does anyone have any suggestions? Relax guys, it’s a book that both sexes should have fun with!

    I’ve enjoyed the banter in response to Unpublished-but-better-than-you and hope that he/she has hopped back on to see what responses were posted. I’m not into name calling but I can sure think of a few that would fit.Don’t take things so seriously!


  • Rick - January 12, 2009 at 2:33 am #

  • This blog posting cracks me up. It just reminds how people ask me “How do you build a dot com”. You can pretty much take this blog posting replace references to “book” with “website” make some minor adjustments.


  • Elaine Duree - January 12, 2009 at 9:36 am #

  • Question so My book is written and published but I need to get it into stores how do I do that? If you have the time would love an answer to direct me thanks Elaine


  • Ken Bushnell - January 13, 2009 at 4:58 pm #

  • How to write a book. Write the outline and then fill it in. It’s that easy. If the motivation is there you’ll get it done.

    The research is always a blast, an incredible journey of discovery.

    I think the best writer ever is Stephen J. Cannell. Just brilliant at capturing how the every day can have powerful effects. I was surprised to see in his interview for the Archive of American Television that he doesn’t bother to spell check. He writes it down and gives it to his secretary to proof. The guy just loves to write and it shows.


  • TB - January 14, 2009 at 2:57 pm #

  • Finding others who share your struggle and desire is often the only motivation you need to take action! Keep up the good work!


  • Nicole - January 14, 2009 at 11:46 pm #

  • Thank you for these useful pieces of information. I am attempting to write a non-fiction novel based off of a good friend’s life and as she presented me with the idea of the book, I felt a little lost. Honestly, I felt quite rusty in my writing but I found that I was becoming increasingly excited about getting started, yet more anxious that I didn’t know where to start from.

    I’ll keep referring back to you, Scott, as I think I’ve found my rock in you!


  • Shelley in Reno - January 17, 2009 at 1:18 am #

  • I’m back again…Scott I apologize for using your site as a springboard but I hope you understand that I’m desparate for exposure to enlist input for my book and I need to use any network I can…thank you for allowing this intrussion…

    I think Common Sense is more challenging for men in more situations than it is for women and I’m out to prove it. Please visit my new blog and let me know how you feel about it. Be a part of the research for my book. thank you

    http://behaviorofmen.blogspot.com/


  • Marcia - January 17, 2009 at 6:48 pm #

  • Thank You!


  • Lily - January 24, 2009 at 10:08 pm #

  • I love writing and I love reading. I love poetry. I’ve wanted to write a book ever since I was eleven, and I’m fourteen now. My parents say I should really get some of my work published, but I have so many problems. a) I can never stick to something. I try as hard as I can, but either the plot ends too quickly or I get bored. Tis the curse of ADHD. b) I usually make it too cheesy. Whether making a character too perfect, or a life too hard/lovely. Nags me to no end. c) My ideas are very limited. I have no idea what to write about most of the time, and when I do, it’s beautiful nonsense.

    Any tips for a struggling fourteen-year old female writer?


  • Mark - January 30, 2009 at 2:52 pm #

  • Scott,
    If you are really somewhere in the woods near Washington State, lucky you. Great place to be in July, a bit cold in January.
    Saw your UTUBE presentation. You speak of failure as I do. I have reffered to failures as a profit. A profit when spent could buy more than any profit from success. Most persons cannot grasp this. When I speak of this to the linesmen (people who wait in lines) they pass me off as an escapee.
    I am one of those non-degree types you speak of. Proud of that too. Was in an industry for 25 years and completely changed it. Yes I did. All along the way I was harrassed. Met a guy named CP years ago who told me about the “No People” (people who say no). CP told me how free it is to say NO. People say NO because it is easy and cheap. No comes without responsibility. But CP also told me that every “no” puts you closer to a yes.
    I became famous in the industry I had changed. Fame is fun for a while, not always. Those “No People” stand in line to speak to you. You know what I speak of. Does this ring any bells…It is 8:00 am and your coming down the elevator to meet and great in the convention hall. The door opens and there they are, all of the linesmen and those “no-people” waiting to shake your hand. They all want to be you. They could have been you but they were in line somewhere when you flew by. Hehe
    Thanks for letting me know I am heading in the WRITE direction.
    Mark


  • Junior - February 2, 2009 at 8:53 am #

  • Right now im writng a book about myself,most of it is the negative things i did that caused me my job,and my trust in my family,this is my only chance to earn and live,and let others know the bad life i went through and family problems i faced,which affected me so badly,
    i want to publish this book and maybe people who read my book may learn some important things in life and how to fight the wrong side of our lives,
    this is the first time for me to write a book…
    I need your advice


  • Susy Tanner - February 4, 2009 at 4:53 pm #

  • this was amazing and it helped me a lot. i was stumped for months until i read this.


  • Michael - February 10, 2009 at 9:29 pm #

  • You know you’ve written something great when people are still commenting a year and a half later!

    My hidden question when asking “how do you write a book” is more about format for submission to a publisher… do I just start tapping away in Word, or would I be better off getting Quark or something? See, I am truly clueless when it comes to desktop publishing software.


  • Minerva Adams - February 11, 2009 at 1:22 pm #

  • Hey! I love your advice, though discouraging at first, the title did not lie. It was nothing but the cold hard truthful facts! So Scott Berkun, I look forward to hearing more from you and Thank you for your words of obviousness!!


  • Cosmin M. - February 12, 2009 at 3:11 pm #

  • Hey. I read all you said and it sort of got me inspired. I was in Language Arts class today (Note to you: I am only 15.) and we were talking about writing biographies. Well, I decided it would be nice if I could write a book. And here I am searching on Google for tips on how to write a book. Well I am really interested in lots of things. For example, I like to read books that are historical fiction or just plan fiction. I like WWI/WWII and medieval kind of books. But I have decided to start to write a somewhat short book/diary of a teenager who is facing difficulties in life and his parents are fighting all the time. I would like some tips from you on writing this kind of book.

    I hope you can see my e-mail. If not then register for my site and contact “Admin”. That would be me.


  • craig sotkovsky - February 22, 2009 at 2:25 pm #

  • thanks scott
    it is a pleasure to see the critics. They only encourage me to make more grammatical errors and sell more books. Thanks again for the inspiration.
    craig in the yucatan


  • Naomi - February 23, 2009 at 8:12 pm #

  • If you have doubts about writing a book, or think you cant do it, I’m fourteen and just finished a 240 page novel. I could do it and so can you


  • Chris - February 24, 2009 at 1:36 am #

  • That was great, I decided I will make a film instead.


  • Sally Robertson - February 24, 2009 at 12:02 pm #

  • Sally Feb 24-09
    Theank you for your comments, I have been thinking a long time of starting to write a book, about my expirences when I was a diplomant wife aronund the world. I think my story can be great so I would like to write it the best I can.

    Sally


  • Art - February 26, 2009 at 5:53 am #

  • I have to admit I liked your article, the right amount of advice, critisism, wit, and positive reinforcement. Sadly its not quite enough, simply put I have great stories, no problems writing as some mentioned here the difficult part or rather putting work into it and not knowing where to go next. I love writing and it comes easy to me my problem is can I really afford to do it. I have a wife and a son and while I think others would enjoy my stories would I even be able to get published on a low end well enough to pay the bills persay? I know it’s a question asked quite often and I’ll be doing a bit more searching and I may turn up some answers I just would like to hear it from someone who has been there.


  • Kimberli - March 2, 2009 at 9:10 pm #

  • Thank you for your honesty.


  • T. Tresch - March 3, 2009 at 12:38 am #

  • I’ve been an avid reader most of my life. Started with comics at 3 and progressed to college texts on math/sciences by 11. Self-taught speed reading had me killing up to 60 books a day. Even Tale of Two Cities and Way and Peace became dinner to bed reads when they were issued as book report material in 7th and 8th grade. Fiction, especially Science-Fiction and Fantasy caught me in my teens. I’ve been writing since age 6 but have never bothered submitting anything. Now, for many reasons, I am working on a series of novels (currently planned to be 3) and some short stories all based in the same universe (as it were). It is challenging due to some of the reasons that helped spur the decision. however, I think with the internet as a resource, and the time and effort I am willing to put into it I should at least succeed in writing something that is publishable. I may never be rich but I plan on being a working writer.


  • ashley - March 7, 2009 at 8:08 pm #

  • thanks for the article. I love to “write” stories, that is in my head i do. I can imagine so many different places, situations, and stories. However, when I sit down to write them out or pick up paper and pen to write it out, I can’t seem to word it right. At least, not all of what i wanted to write. I have great openers, the first “chapter”, so to speak comes so naturally. I can do an outline of what I want to say, how I want the story to go, but, when it comes to actually writing the whole thing out I get stuck. I guess thats the right word for it. I probably wouldnt have felt this way if it werent for the girls at work that were curious as to what I was writing, so I sent it to them. Now, they are all asking when they can read more, it got me really excited that they liked what I wrote. That even if it wasnt something to appeal the masses that it would ease some of the humdrum of the office, which was why I was writing it in the first place an escape, a relief that there was something beyond the walls that encircled us. Any ideas, on how to overcome the blockage???


  • Oskar - March 10, 2009 at 10:12 am #

  • To: “Unpublished_but_better_than_you”
    Bitterness will get you places. If you have nothing good to write it’s better to say nothing at all. Be a better person. It’s ok. Really!


  • Cathy - March 16, 2009 at 6:39 am #

  • When writing a book using the computer, what program do you recommend using?I am thinking of using MS Word but if there is something better out there I will look into it.


  • Kimberly Eckles - March 16, 2009 at 8:22 pm #

  • I am writeing a book even though I am only twelve and everyone says it passes for expert. I have almost finished it and I have many people wanting the next chapter and the next chapter. I write plainly because it is fun and now I realize that I have a talent for it. Thainks for the help.:):)


  • Chris - March 23, 2009 at 1:27 pm #

  • Scott,
    I’m aspiring and starting out by researching on this internet thingy. Addressing how you see those who ask you how to; Maybe they ask you because they connected to something you wrote or said and think/feel that they might get ionsight from “your” response. Few people able to read are unaware of the work involved in my experience. It is those who are ignorant of the work who try to “become” writer’s as it seems easy. A few of these succeed, but mostly it is those who have to write that are writers.


  • janet - March 24, 2009 at 6:33 am #

  • Hi Scott!
    Thanks for the information that you posted , very helpful.
    The book that i intend to write, is about a real life experience that had happen 32 yrs ago.
    The problem i’m having is this , it’s all in my head, getting it on paper is the hard part. I started writing one evening about four months ago, and got bugged down with it. Telling the story is very easy ,but putting it in the form of a book i’m having struggles. But upon your advice i’ll try again.


  • Trisha - March 25, 2009 at 6:50 am #

  • I enjoyed your article. What about the other 20%?


  • Maori Boi - March 30, 2009 at 8:53 pm #

  • Bro mean comment dunno if ne1 still writes on this but lil message to unpublished but betta than u, us maoris hav a sayin here, by the sounds if it you suit it so if youre a dude, you need a good fukn crack in the head, and if youre a chick den you need a good fukin and yea i no i aint spelling rite peace all MEAN MAORI MEAN


  • Maori Boi - March 30, 2009 at 8:58 pm #

  • o and as 2 that dude that said its too cliche to write bout ur life GO FOR IT, man ive influenced heaps o mi bros wen i tell them bout how i was bought up no whanau (family) no friends, done a hole lot of criminal crap always fighting and drinking and smoking drugs, now im calm and mellow well sort of, and trying to write books and design games, AND I GOT EXPELED FROM SCHOOL i aint very intelligent so get ur shit in order come to NZL and wear blue were im from like i do then well c if u can handle it boi ull be killed i was bought up like that and now im a gud boii heaps o mi bros respect me for that CHUR
    MEAN MAORI MEAN
    go the fantasy writers right me a gud book to read


  • Aldѐsa - April 5, 2009 at 6:40 am #

  • Bonjour everyone. I am a minor author (15) who is obviously unpublished. I am in the midst of writing my three-book series that (I think) revolves around a complex and completed main character with many 3-D dynamic and static characters supporting her. I am confident that it could be a bestseller if I wrote it right. The only problem I have with it is my grammer. Sometimes my sentences won’t run smoothly, as in:

    “Jessie I know what I saw. So just shut up,”

    So then I have to go back and find away to make it sound like the way I want it to.

    “Jessie, I know what I saw back there, so please just shut up!”

    And then it sounds weird to me.

    Any tips for grammer and dialogue? I am only a freshman in highschool, and I really have a problem with it. Maybe THEN I can finally publish it.

    Thanks for the article, by the way!

    –Aldѐsa (a name you will hear in the future)


  • Anna - April 8, 2009 at 4:35 am #

  • I enjoyed your advice and then I read comment of some angry reader about ‘than’and ‘then’…ah, if everybody would be perfect then the life got boring


  • Anna - April 8, 2009 at 4:37 am #

  • :)


  • B. Sweet - April 8, 2009 at 6:37 am #

  • I had a great time reading the article and posts and learned a lot. Thank you so much. Greetings from Brasilia, Brazil


  • Roger Williams - April 8, 2009 at 7:48 am #

  • What if you think you have a great idea for a book but you don’t necessarily want to write it. You don’t have the writing skills or the time to put into it. What would you recommend for this situation?

    Regards
    Roger


  • Kylee C-R - April 9, 2009 at 7:03 am #

  • I am currently 14 (almost 15) and want to be published by the time I’m 18. I’ve had some unusually challenging life experiences, and because of the way I’ve handled said life experiences, I’ve been encouraged by family and friends to write an autobiography. I haven’t really started yet, as I’m not sure WHERE to begin. I have no clue HOW to write a book. If you have any suggestions, I would greatly appreciate them. I am not wanting to write for the fame and fortune. I want to do it, because it’s been a dream of mine since I was six, and it’s a dream I want to see fullfilled.
    Thank you,
    Kylee


  • Amy K Newcombe - April 11, 2009 at 2:36 am #

  • I thought the article was quite resourceful and positively truthful. It appears as though I wrote my own testimony, changed names and three things to create fiction, 204 pages, 18 chapters and struggling with a “query” letter to the right agent. I am insecure, have no way to visit any writing conferences, which some of the publishing books I’ve read strongly suggest this is the best way to get an agent. I’m tempted to do my own publishing, but also worried I won’t find a lot of people who want to purchase my book either.
    And the funny part is that i’VE been working on the book for 13 years


  • Amy K Newcombe - April 11, 2009 at 2:37 am #

  • I thought the article was quite resourceful and positively truthful. It appears as though I wrote my own testimony, changed names and three things to create fiction, 204 pages, 18 chapters and struggling with a “query” letter to the right agent. I am insecure, have no way to visit any writing conferences, which some of the publishing books I’ve read strongly suggest this is the best way to get an agent. I’m tempted to do my own publishing, but also worried I won’t find a lot of people who want to purchase my book either.
    And the funny part is that i’VE been working on the book for 13 years. Any suggestions?


  • Tahni - April 14, 2009 at 10:22 am #

  • I’m 14 years old and I love writing, I’ve written over 60 poems and tons of beginnings to books, but I have a hard time finishing the book. I always tend to discourage myself by saying stuff like “Noone would ever read that,” or “There’s no way I could ever compare to those authors,” and I end up crumpling up my story and throwing it away. I’m very good with using metaphors to describe the feelings of the person, and setting a mood, getting the reader captivated in the story that’s about to unravel. If you have any advice for me I’d throughly appreciate it. My want to write books isn’t for fame, or money, but because I have a passion for it and hope to inspire other young girls like myself to reach their potential through literature.


  • Ray - April 16, 2009 at 4:04 pm #

  • I loved your piece, and the responses which I am still reading. Thank you for your advice and more so for the removal of the complexity , it was sincere and reassuring as I am very imaginative but have always had the fear of how to or if I was godd enough since I didnt go to college but I love Poetry and telling stories, I kind of liken it to Meryl Streep’s character in the movie “Out of Africa ” where she makes up a story on the whim and goes the entire evening telling it. Truth or fiction who doesnt like a good story or admire someone for telling it . Thank you for the words of wisdom Scott.


  • Sean - April 17, 2009 at 3:06 am #

  • hey i have a question for really anyone who is listening, me and my best friend have many outrageous stories that we have live through, throughout the years and we want to write a book. duh… but just as you would expect, guy that party and have stories like these are lazy and can’t spell along with the problem that we have very short attention spans so the question is how can we find someone who is interested in just listening to our stories and writing them down, and if it makes enough money to break even and pay the guy that listened and wrote our shit down we would be happy. if you want to help send me an e-mail b-one@mobster.com


  • carolyn - April 23, 2009 at 9:03 pm #

  • i would like to write a book from all my little books ive kept over the years of things that has happened to me and still going on, i got 7 so far, like journals ive kept. i think i could do it if i know know how to start it , any helpful thoughts,

    thanks carolyn


  • TaraSun - May 2, 2009 at 10:05 am #

  • Hey there- just wanted to say thank you for a very inspiring and informative article. I’m sixteen years old, turning seventeen this June. I come from a small country in Europe, and yes, English is my second language, right after Serbian. I spent most of my life in the states- my love for writing emerged when I was only nine. Since then I’ve won multiple awards for both writing and my works of art.

    It’s only now that I’ve actually considered writing a book- I’m on my hundredth page. Some of my friends took a look at it, as well as my English professor. They were all blown away- so I’m guessing it’s going to be good. I just want to thank you for providing this sort of information- your blog was one of the first I looked into prior to the actual writing process. I’m going to pass this onto my friends- perhaps they too will feel slightly more encouraged to fulfill their goals once they read it. Thanks again, and best wishes!
    -Kristina


  • Alton - May 3, 2009 at 3:08 pm #

  • Great blog but I do disagree a with a few points. They are: you can’t get rich by writing and getting published is difficult.

    Case and point Tila Tequila. Are you kinding me? The girl does absolutely nothing but writes a book on partying and gets both published and rich.

    I’m being fecicious here because I know that there are a lot of great authors out there working really hard to get published but never make it. Shoot I would love to publish a book and make money someday.

    However, do all you hard working authors wonder if you will be able to get your idea thru the door full of garbage like the example I mentioned here?

    Oh well, I can only hope. I wisk you all luck.


  • lis - May 5, 2009 at 7:36 am #

  • How do you get pass the fear? All I keep thinking is that I will be laughed at and think my “book” stupid.


  • Steve - May 18, 2009 at 7:41 am #

  • hi! i am interested in learning much more on how and where to write/publish a book! not started yet but i’m always having ideas! let me know at my address on what i must do and how i can start! thanks!


  • Sarah - June 24, 2009 at 6:50 pm #

  • I’ve had an idea in my head for a book for 2 years. Now I can get it on paper. Thanks. Your tips really helped.


  • Taylor - June 28, 2009 at 2:00 pm #

  • I love writing, it’s like a second nature to me. People say they love my stories, and ask how I do it. I just simply say: Anyone can do! All you need is an imagination!


  • Kim - June 29, 2009 at 2:40 pm #

  • I know I can write; I live and breath to write. What completely douses my enthusiasm are the odds of getting published. That thought takes the wind right out of me! I have studied the process of being published since elementary school and have witnessed the discouragement first hand from a friend, a t.v. producer and writer. He has worked for major networks from New York to L.A. He has a friend in New York that is a publisher; that’s supposed to be an automatic IN right? Wrong! It was an autobiography on a key music producer in the 60’s and 70’s in New York for the like of the Beatles and they told him it wasn’t risque enough.


  • leaAnn - July 2, 2009 at 3:51 pm #

  • I love to write so much it scares people, I also love to read. but when i finaly start writing i totaly zonk out. I’ve tried everything i can think of but i get nothing.I only get to the first couple of chapters. most of you sound really into this like me so actualy your comments helped. another problem is that because of my age nobody like takes me seriously.that is a huge thing that tikes me off! i mean so what if i’m 13 and a girl.thanks for listening & writing. bye*


  • Tammy Chapman - July 5, 2009 at 5:05 am #

  • I am in over my head! Private investigators, negligent detectives, misleading statements as to facts of a case. Every friend says “write a book”. I don’t know how to write a book, and I’m very aware that it is not on my current list of priorities. My current priority is pressuring the ‘detectives’ to substantiate their claims. Was it suicide? or murder? and what evidence do they have to support their claim.

    Question: is there an arena in which I could submit a true story (2 private investigators – video interviews, audio interviews, photos, statements and 1+ year of emails and research by the family) and have someone else write it?

    Private investigators conclusion: All evidence indicates he WAS NOT holding weapon when it discharged.

    Anyone who has ever investigated HVI spatter would know that the Sheriff’s office explaination as to the HVI spatter on a hand – “caused by post mortem tissue donation” is just dead wrong. What are they covering up?
    The story is so awful it borders on comedy – except that someone is dead.
    Could someone else write the story? Does this happen? Could any monies go to the children of the deceased? Where do I look?

    Thanks
    TLC
    a.k.a – Mom


  • Sophie McMillan - July 10, 2009 at 12:22 am #

  • Hi, I am 13 years old and want to try to write a novel, I know that it sounds ambitious but it’s something I am quite passionate about. I understand that it wont be easy and is going to take me a number of years. I’m just concerned I’m not going to have enough time to do it and that I will trail off and forget about it. Currently I am juggling school and sports on top of homework and other commitments so I don’t believe I could spend more than an hour a night working on it. Is this a problem? I know it will as I said take me quite a while but in that time my writing could only get better as I learn more. Thanks!


  • fullmoon - July 13, 2009 at 5:29 pm #

  • im a young writed and i need help


  • MoniKa - July 15, 2009 at 8:11 am #

  • So I just read through your advices and Have to say I still want to write a book myself, just maybe an opinion would give me the five fingers instead of just two thumbs up…..
    I am just wondering if you ever ran across a book That comes from a young girl from European country that came to USA on basketball scholarship than tried to stick around after 4 years in college and now living in Godly Mysterious Los Angeles.
    My Goal is to reach young women that consider themselves as a foreigners that were blessed with the traveling mind, heart and soul coming into the blue, as almost the movie Into the Blue, seeing the big picture, the outside shell of an egg of actually big something that is not always so yellow and white and godly as promoted.
    With my book and experiences as a women that lived away from her family going through past 7 years of life in overseas country spontaneously with ambition and purpose as number one but that going through hurtles not either cause of not knowing about the culture, different cities people values,am trying to reach the audience of any young women that might are going through same experience to explain its Okay.
    I want to help them all to see the little details of a big picture of living life great and easy and smooth in foreign country to make the downfalls for these women smoother and recovery shorter.
    I am on a right track now and never stopped loving life and its purpose for my own unity but at times it wasnt so pleasant since the values I was thought since I was a kid were at times challenged yet changed around.
    By the way enough of me writting just wanted to share what I like to write as of now.


  • Howard - July 18, 2009 at 1:20 pm #

  • I dont care about Money,
    aslong as i get enough to buy some bread every week.

    and i dont care about being famous,
    although all the advertisment and financial busness is only because i want my book to get published and sold :)

    and i dont care about “the work” if you call it work.
    it sounds like its a chore to write, but its not.
    its a priviledge to write, and to release your deep thoughts, or your story to the reader who is willing to listen is really nice in my own humble opinion.

    and i love to write, ever since i were a small boy.
    I finished my first book when i was 10
    350 pages long i believe.

    but i dont know what the future holds.
    Thanks for pulling me down from the sky, and into the real world.
    am doing some “how to write research” for some opinions from other writers,
    and some writers say
    “weeee, this is so much fun omg”
    and others say
    “am not famous, and i dont have alot of money teh suxxor”
    And anything in between.

    i guess i will have my opinion, my own thoughts, when i release my first book.
    Thanks for sharing yours.
    -Howard


  • Emryk Cullen - July 18, 2009 at 10:25 pm #

  • Your article made me see some form of light.

    I love to write. However, every orgnal thing i have ever written i have deleted, for fear of it being rejected. But why? It’s my writing. Why should I care if other don’t like it? I shouldn’t give up without at least trying.

    I write all the time. Before today, i had completly given up writing anything that was mine. I only wrote stpries on fanfiction.

    But now I see that I need to beat the fear out of myself.
    So thank you Scott! You gave me the knowledge i needed to get back on track!


  • alan - July 20, 2009 at 8:11 am #

  • i know nothing of the technical intricacies of what the majority of contributers here seem to find themselves consumed by,dont aim for an inner round of self gratuious applause for immaculate grammer and certainly care not a jot for A-grade spelling.

    any story relies on fluidity,so as Bruce Lee once mused,be water and go with your own flow!!


  • Miriam S. - July 22, 2009 at 2:10 pm #

  • I’m writing a book on the untold story of hair weaving and it’s orgin. How the wave of hair weaving was create… by whom, why, and how it was grew from a ideal to the explosion it is to day. I was a part of starting that my aunt was the one who started the firer to spreading.
    Your words have inspirer me to write and hurry and finish the book.


  • Joseph Myles - August 7, 2009 at 5:29 am #

  • Thank you for all the great information.
    I been wanting to write for a long time. I have all the ideal in my head, and I would reall y like to share some of them with the world. But like many I didn’t know how to go about it. Thank you for all you knowledge and experience.
    God bless,
    J. Myles


  • elijah - August 8, 2009 at 12:48 pm #

  • I fine that kind of alright cause Im a writer


  • Jenna - August 9, 2009 at 4:48 pm #

  • Thank you for the article Scott. I’ve been thinking about writting for a good while. Then I had my college instructor tell me that he sees good potential to be a writer. Well I am already a writer only I write poems and songs. How do I fill in all the spaces between main ideas? For my first book I want to write about my troubling childhood and how it has affected me in my adulthood and even how I’ve overcome it all(for the most part, except maybe a 2 fears I still have). Are there any “free” resources on learning how to become a better writer? I have plenty of ideas I just lack “descriptive” writing abilities that you normally see in books. Any books you would recommend reading to help with this issue? I realize this is an old article, but in the event you do respond; thank you in advance. Blessed Be to You and Yours.


  • RACHEL - August 12, 2009 at 10:05 pm #

  • I read your article, and it made me think about riding. I’ve always wanted to write, but I always made excuses my grammar is great, spelling is okay. I’m not famous, nor will I ever be. I’m a senior citizen 50yrs who has had many experiences in my life, some good some bad. You said anyone can write, and I believe that, anyone can write a book, good or bad it can be done. I want to write of my life experiences, from the abused relationship in high school, to my marriage to someone who was as cold as ice, to living with someone who I thought was the love of my life who was financially stable, who I found out later to be an alcoholic, to dealing with my teenage children and realizing that no matter what we do as parents it’s never good enough for some. In my abused relationship I know there are women who have gone through what I have, I’d like to write about it so other women know that they deserve better, and they are worth something. I want to share my experience of marriage, so women out there can know that they are not alone, and as women we deserve to be treated with respect and as equal. I want to share what I think true love is, I’ve been living with my boyfriend/fiance for 8 yrs., he says he wants to marry me, but it’s been 8yrs something always comes up, I’ve come to the conclusion that the man I thought I was the love of my life is not, but I have 10yrs invested with him so I’m not about to go and start over again, instead I will stay and make the best of it. I want share my experiences of not having trust when you think your significant has strayed, yet he denies nothing ever happen, I want to tell women if you think your man has cheated it most likely has, and the love you had for him will never be the same, t could have happen 5 yrs ago, he will say something or do something and it will bring back those ugly memories that have been deeply imbedded in the back of your head and it will and it will feel as though it just happened. I want to tell woman they need to get past these and get on with their life, for this crutch will only hold you back. I want to say and share so many things. So as you said anyone can write, good or bad, it takes work it won’t be easy, but I think I will make another try of it. I’m so glad that I found your website, it’s very informative, I especially like how you have information on publishing a book. Again thank you for all your information, maybe one day if I ever finish my book, I will send you a copy…………Ca Mom


  • RACHEL - August 12, 2009 at 10:09 pm #

  • As you can see, my spelling is’nt that great, in my previous comment, I incorrectly spelled the word writing, I wrote riding….Ha!ha! I needed a laughed……..Mom riding in CA

    Good luck to all you potential book writers, if you have thought about riding, do it now, don’t let life pass you by….


  • RACHEL - August 12, 2009 at 10:09 pm #

  • I read your article, and it made me think about writing. I’ve always wanted to write, but I always made excuses my grammar is great, spelling is okay. I’m not famous, nor will I ever be. I’m a senior citizen 50yrs who has had many experiences in my life, some good some bad. You said anyone can write, and I believe that, anyone can write a book, good or bad it can be done. I want to write of my life experiences, from the abused relationship in high school, to my marriage to someone who was as cold as ice, to living with someone who I thought was the love of my life who was financially stable, who I found out later to be an alcoholic, to dealing with my teenage children and realizing that no matter what we do as parents it’s never good enough for some. In my abused relationship I know there are women who have gone through what I have, I’d like to write about it so other women know that they deserve better, and they are worth something. I want to share my experience of marriage, so women out there can know that they are not alone, and as women we deserve to be treated with respect and as equal. I want to share what I think true love is, I’ve been living with my boyfriend/fiance for 8 yrs., he says he wants to marry me, but it’s been 8yrs something always comes up, I’ve come to the conclusion that the man I thought I was the love of my life is not, but I have 10yrs invested with him so I’m not about to go and start over again, instead I will stay and make the best of it. I want share my experiences of not having trust when you think your significant has strayed, yet he denies nothing ever happen, I want to tell women if you think your man has cheated it most likely has, and the love you had for him will never be the same, t could have happen 5 yrs ago, he will say something or do something and it will bring back those ugly memories that have been deeply imbedded in the back of your head and it will and it will feel as though it just happened. I want to tell woman they need to get past these and get on with their life, for this crutch will only hold you back. I want to say and share so many things. So as you said anyone can write, good or bad, it takes work it won’t be easy, but I think I will make another try of it. I’m so glad that I found your website, it’s very informative, I especially like how you have information on publishing a book. Again thank you for all your information, maybe one day if I ever finish my book, I will send you a copy…………Ca Mom


  • outcast - August 17, 2009 at 9:51 pm #

  • dear Author:

    thank you, im 16 years of age, and ive had an obsession with writting for quite some time.
    Im currently writting a book, and was very self consious to how it would compare to others.
    im putting about 5 hours of a days work into, and just maybe, all i needed to hear were the words “everyone can write”.
    so, thank you again {:


  • tracy - August 29, 2009 at 8:12 am #

  • I love to read and write. I have been a dreamer my whole life and would love to be a writer. I am not troubled about how to publish etc. I can just write away. My problem is while i have no trouble creating content, I am horrible with spelling, grammer, and the over all technical side of it all. Is this a problem? I mean should i just write and not worry about this?


  • Irving Schwartz - August 29, 2009 at 8:15 am #

  • I wrote several books and not were ever published. I guess I sure have used a smaller font and not farted.


  • tracy - August 29, 2009 at 8:31 am #

  • I don’t think my last comment made my problem clear. what i meant is that i can lay down to go to sleep and write half of a book in my head. I have no trouble with that. I can sit at the computer and write for hours never once having to think about what to write. It is and always has been my passion. Now, here is what stops me….I will be sitting there just writing away and then i begin to overanalize everything i do because i know im not very smart when it comes to the technical side. For example…do i put a comma here? Do i start a new paragraph here? Is this when it should be a new chapter? So you see i get discouraged simply by these things and not the writing part itself. So my question was will publishers just throw your book out with these types of errors or is it truly the writing that matters???


  • POPOOLA ABAYOMI - September 2, 2009 at 11:28 am #

  • PLAESE HELP ME KNOW HOW TO WRITE


  • something catchy.. - September 2, 2009 at 12:26 pm #

  • Interesting article indeed. I honestly wish I could say a term such as ’short and sweet’ could apply to me, but I would be lying.
    Based on the vexatious and, quite unfortunate fact that I am really young (younger than you think) I’m not going to reveal my age, simply because I would like to be taken seriously (:
    The brusque truth of this article was quite inspiring. Though I feel that writing can be considered a completely personal project or achievement, having readers feel inspired, or even just enjoy your work really is more than a bonus; it’s great for the ego! :P
    I love the character and finesse Scott showed in this article, and am pleased to state that it will help me greatly in the book I am writing.
    Not being taken seriously because of my age has hardened me quite a deal. Proving my point is a must, not a luxury, and so the work I have been putting into this novel (one of many, hopefully :] ) makes me feel like I’m actually getting somewhere.
    I don’t know if you can or cannot publish a book if you’re under eighteen, but I daresay that won’t stop me :D
    As for the immature time wasters who love to pick out the nitty gritty of what everyone has to say, thanks for wasting your time, and some of ours. It’s amusing to know that there are still people who think we care about their scandals.
    tootles!
    :)


  • arjaye - September 8, 2009 at 3:51 am #

  • that`s good
    i salute you!!
    but….
    could you say
    anything about writing
    a book in a
    very shortway?


  • Tristan - September 21, 2009 at 4:37 am #

  • Scott, I enjoyed reading your to the point comments on the subject. I suppose I fall into the “getting published” category of inquirers. I possess a story “non-fiction” as a result of five and a half years of my work. Is there such thing as ghost writers or agencies that specialize in assisting others put a story to paper? Is so, how do they work, staff for publishers, agents, etc.? I have some experience writing music but none writing books.

    Thanks, Tristan


  • Peter - September 22, 2009 at 9:17 am #

  • Hi, I’m thinking about writing a book. The book would be about my experiences in attempting to care for my disabled elderly mother. Unfortunitly my mother owned valuable shoreline property in Connecticut and her attorney was the town TPZ chairman and a corny of the local probate Judge. I could and did deal with my mom’s alzheimer’s (even her doctors tesified on my behalf)but I couldn’t stop the court from ripping her to pieces to gain control of her property. The arrogant Judge referred to my mom as juridictional property.It is an amazing story that pitted the medical community against the legal authorities in two New England states. The end result was my mother died. Her house was taken from my control, within 3 months the house was destroyed from a flooded pipe and then left to rot, my mother wasted away and died and a 1.7 million dollar mansion was built upon her property. The story involves 5 judges, about 25 attorneys, two courts in two states, many doctors and medical professionals, me and my mother.

    Do you think that anybody would be interested in a story, [book] like that? I’ve learned that this type of thing happens all the time in this country.


  • Kenneth - September 26, 2009 at 10:26 am #

  • Hello, my question is the format of writing a book. How to start I have in my mind what I want to write but whats the format meaning starting the first chapter or how many chapters, what to put in a chapter and how to end one. I went through quite an ordeal when I was a young man and found that the system does not want young black men taken care of their children and fought me for years trying to force me not to be there for my child. I would like to tell my story while I can still remember it.


  • jasmin - September 26, 2009 at 2:07 pm #

  • hi,
    my name is jasmin.
    and will like to write a true story
    about a girl.
    rita .
    is a story that will move any human being.
    but i need a writer plz help me
    regards
    jsamin

    jazzyda@hotmail.com
    3862952231


  • Nan Wheatley - September 26, 2009 at 8:10 pm #

  • What is your opinion on self-publishing? Thanks,Nan


  • Herman Smith - September 28, 2009 at 3:20 pm #

  • very good information thanks


  • maisah - October 1, 2009 at 10:08 pm #

  • I want to share my life story with the world I don’t have a aa or a ba but I’m not going to let that be the reason why I can’t express my self share my experience and may be help some one!I haven’t shared this with no one because people are so quick to judge I love to write poetry was always a outlet from the stress and I’m too talented to let it go to waist!


  • Amanda - October 2, 2009 at 6:35 pm #

  • I’d like to read your books sometime, your simple advice was capturing as it is. You sound charming.


  • Phil Simon - October 3, 2009 at 2:11 am #

  • A year after first reading this post, it resonates with me more than before, particularly the last paragraph. Yes, writing can be a pain but I love it (despite of it or perhaps because of it).


  • Rebecca - October 3, 2009 at 7:52 am #

  • Have the ideas but don’t know how to even begin to start writing a book. Don’t want to spend a year(s) doing this. Any ideas, like a ghost writer? Help.


  • Kara Burns - October 3, 2009 at 9:20 pm #

  • I’m a senior in high school. I have big dreams, alot of them, and one of them, is to be an author. I have the book, it’s basic outline, and i can’t stop tweaking the details. I find that I am constntly being inspired by the music i listen to. If i listen to a song, twice or more, there’s more than one view. What I want to know is… Should I cut my losses, and go for it? Should i publish, after i organize and perfect?


  • jim - October 3, 2009 at 10:29 pm #

  • i have a great idea for a book. i have written a little. But i dont have great grammar skills


  • Thomas - October 5, 2009 at 5:03 pm #

  • I have never written a book before but I have been wanting to share what is taking place at this time in my life now. I think it is also important for people to know what is happening with me at this time. I will keep this short, my father passed last year and left me a will giving me everything he has. Now his EX wife now divorced 10 years is suing me and wants everything he has. I have found the american court system to be corrupt and a complete joke. It is not like have not allready known this as my family has been sued before. The people who have money in this country need to be worried about the unscupulous lawyers waiting to steal their money. Obviously I have alot to share. Do you think anyone would be interrested in a book like this.


  • Matthew Coxon - October 7, 2009 at 6:20 am #

  • Thank you! very helpful and informative article.


  • mitch - October 8, 2009 at 6:37 am #

  • Thanks for the advise. I’ve got a couple of stories that I’ve wanted to tell. I can say with conviction my skills as a writer would be fictional at best. No candy coating…..I suck at writing. All that said, my motivation to “talk” has been from people who I’ve happened to tell small bits and pieces to. The order varies but the reaction is more or less the same. Jaw open, disbelief, belief, stunned, pity and with out fail, “Wow, it sucks to be you.” Like I haven’t figured that out by now. My question is as follows. What would I need to change besides the actual names of those involved? It wouldn’t take a genius to figure out the corp involved sinse historically, it couldn’t be anyone else. I’d like keep what little I have, such as it is.


  • mick runey - October 8, 2009 at 3:40 pm #

  • I just asked the question to myself how do you write a book and got on the web and ran across your article. You don’t answer the question.


  • Craig Castanik - October 9, 2009 at 10:39 am #

  • People, mostly famous people, write bios. all the time. I have this idea to write my bio. as i am 57 years old and dont have a pot to p_ _ _ s in and its not for lack of trying. I have worked hard all my life never been fired or layed off but the “system” kept me, or us as i am married, down through corporate greed. I kind of think this would interest people because judging by the news there are a lot of us out there. Any thoughts on this? Thanks


  • Dominic Rico - October 12, 2009 at 10:39 am #

  • Dear…Well I don’t know if you’re going to read this anyway, I could rant on and on into empty space for all I Know…but I’d like to ask a question\
    I’m writing a Book…Well only 21/23 Chapters, then I’m Passing it on to another writer who writes another 3 chapters and from there 3 chapters until it’s… well I guess It Ends when I someone ends it. Anyway I wrote a good beginning. and You’re an inspiration, and when it’s done and published would you read it


  • Jim - October 12, 2009 at 7:23 pm #

  • If a person decides to write a book spanning his or her 40+ years spent in one functional area with several fortune 500 corporations beginning in 1964, would you advise them to make it “fictional” or “factual”?


  • Sandra - October 14, 2009 at 3:46 pm #

  • Hi Mr. Berkun. I’m hoping to be an author, but I’m only thirteen. I really want to have a book published by the time I’m eighteen. Is that possible (of course it’s possible, but I mean is it likely to happen?)
    Thanks for Your Time,
    Sandra


  • MissionChik - October 15, 2009 at 7:41 am #

  • Hilarious! and informative :) thanks


  • Jess - October 16, 2009 at 10:56 am #

  • I have toyed with the idea of writing several times and finally have an idea for a book that I can actually compile (The first idea was cool, in my opninion, but I still can’t come up with a sequence of events that can be portrayed without people getting to the end and having no clue what just happened)
    ANYWAY! My question is to all who read/write – If I write this book, it will probably be controversial, especially to religious fanatics (Which categorizes just about my entire family), is it just as fine to publish under an assumed name as you’re actual name, or will doing that hinder it in some way? (Or is it just flat cowardly?)
    The problem is my first book will be “based” on a true story. Part of me wants to do it for me and hide it from them, and the other half thinks, “Screw it. They can draw their own conclusions if they decide to read it.” (Be it that they think I’m the damn anti-christ or whatever)

    Does anyone have advice for that kind of situation or been there done that? I would love to read what you have to say.
    Thanks!


  • Jess - October 16, 2009 at 11:12 am #

  • PS – About the article: I just started reading a book I found on the discount rack at the store and it is the first book I’ve ever read, published with a hardback fancy cover and all, with blatant everyday vocabulary. It even seems out of its time, or supposed to be out of this time. Maybe. trying to figure it out. It starts talking about Gods and immortals, mixing Greek gods with other genres of Gods (I’m rusty on my mythology these days) and seemingly in present day times. It was confusing to me the old gods and immortals were so updated on their slang! haha. The point is, yes, anyone can write. The catch seems to be (like someone mentioned before) whether or not a large enough group of people will be interested enough in the story (or account) to finsih and recommend the book to other people and possibly buy your next book and will your writing style be liked or appeciated. And like the book I mentioned, you CAN write a book on a limited vocabulary. Some people might like it. I don’t like it. I find it hard to take seriously. But I am one person out of millions. I’m sure it could be overlooked by having an awesome story. :)


  • Ray Torres - October 16, 2009 at 3:58 pm #

  • I appreciate your honesty. I have been thinking about writing a book, which may be as interesting as a book about toasters as you mentioned earlier. Nonetheless, I feel I need to do this because to me it is a form of expression, to yell to the world my thoughts on how to properly appraise mobile and manufactured homes. This type of shelter is affordable housing, not the trailer trash concept, but the future of housing projects, and a way of reaching out to a different pride of ownership.
    I hope by reading your website I get the inspiration to pursue my criticized desire.


  • Umberta Mesina - October 17, 2009 at 3:07 pm #

  • Amusing and true.
    I am fortunate since I don’t want to write a book.

    During a party, a lady asked to Italian writer Curzio Malaparte: “Mr Pavese, how can you possibly write beautiful things?”.
    He answered: “With a typewriter, Madam. A portable one”.

    Bye,
    Umberta


  • Christine Moore - October 17, 2009 at 8:00 pm #

  • I like what you wrote :) I’m seventeen, love writing, and hope to make a career out of it. I think the biggest thing about writing a book, is to make it your own. That’s what I hope to do. Thanks for the chuckle!


  • tererai - October 20, 2009 at 1:20 am #

  • If the truth be told writing is natural. It cannot be taught. Thats why there’s a word called TALENT. If its not in you no matter how you force yourself it wont be as good as the naturals. Anyway its my opinion and anyone is free to dispute


  • Shirlee L. Monday - October 22, 2009 at 2:41 pm #

  • One is only truly limited by their own imaginations. Writing is easy but getting started is the snag for me. Once I begin then it’s like… hmmm… where do I go from this? I have written so many things that others have read on my yahoo profile page in blogs and I am told time and time again I need to write for a living.

    Could sure use someone who has “been there done that” to mentor me in the right direction. Who was your inspirational go to guru?


  • j'mai ahmed - October 22, 2009 at 2:54 pm #

  • i just find myself writing…sometimes it streams uncontrollably and i bet you, i cant tell how much of nature’s mental deliveries i have aborted. av got pieces of striking writeups; that perhaps, formatting skills has kept from becoming a binded book and therefore they remain as i drafted them the first time. can u help nurture me into having my book, handy?


  • James Hand - October 23, 2009 at 11:41 am #

  • I really want to know how to get started and keep started.


  • Rachel - October 23, 2009 at 4:05 pm #

  • Well as I grew up I always told myself, I will write a book about it one day. Then as I got even older my friends said you should write a book. I know that not alot of people have the ability to be honestly haunted. With a whole family and slue of friends to back up the stories. I don’t even know if it will help but I want to tell my story and I want new friends to stop say your just crazy. I am a very private person and I do belive my true stories whether they sound wacky or like I have lost my mind are truely scary, unbeliveable and begs the question why me? I live it fine and with prayer to not have a haunted life to tell my self to take meds but my famliy says its all real stop dening it. I just want to help every who is scared to sleep or walk though the dark its ok I know whats there. I think that no creator of no film has captured my way of seeing evil or gost. I don’t know if the public can handle the truth. But I know that they shouldn’t be scared. And if they are not I will make them even with just the few of experiances I have had.
    I don’t think Im crazy because it’s a gift that belive me I wish sometimes I did not have. If I could give this gift in a story hold on to your souls.


  • Kimberly Posey - October 24, 2009 at 1:18 pm #

  • I have written a book but it’s so hard for me to get it publish or even looked at, I think it is because of where I live, I live in Wagener,SC and some people haven’t heard of this place but how will they learn about it if they won’t give us a try, they will judge before they have a look at it so if you have any surjection about what I should do please email me ASAP please.


  • Kimberly Posey - October 24, 2009 at 1:25 pm #

  • I have already written a book but it’s hard for me to get it publish when all they say is it’s good but we can’t publish it right now, but if it’s good what is the problem with them publishing it, where I am from they have never heard of it but how will they learn about us if they don’t give us a try so if you could please give me some kind of tips or sujestion on what to do I will surely apperciate it, and down here we love your work please give us more of it.


  • Godfrey Coppinger - October 24, 2009 at 3:18 pm #

  • Thank you – I needed that. I’m also glad you mentioned NaNoWriMo because I will be participating this year. Did it a couple of years ago, but was so new to this computer thingymabob that I couldn’t get my 65,00+ words submitted. So I didn’t get my certificate of completion. So I made one for myself, because I know that I did it.

    Your advice is good. I will take it. Thanks again.


  • Somsak - October 29, 2009 at 7:09 am #

  • Hope that this guy does not write motivational books.


  • Jacob - November 2, 2009 at 7:19 pm #

  • Great post, really down to earth.

    Anyway, Im currently 17 and on the fifth chapter of my book. Many people in my school ask to get copies of what there is of my book (they get turned down kindly) but who can I send chapters to that can give meaning full feed back?


  • mompoloki - November 3, 2009 at 9:31 am #

  • i think now i have all the motivation i needed to persue on what i have been dreming for.Thanks so much now i see myself as a an expect in writing.


  • Bobbi - November 3, 2009 at 11:46 am #

  • Hi Scott, I was just sitting here thinking about my life and came accross your site:) Before i start writing I would like your honest opinion. Do you think anyone would be interested in a book about a girl who was molested as a child ,lost her virginity by a stick from her (not) cousins, raised by a man she thought was her dad but did not find out until her 40s,married to a psycho who beat her daily and kept her hostage for a year until he died in front of her by accidentally shooting his own self while trying to shoot her, married 3 other times to abusive men,came out of the closet in her 30s,lost freinds ,church and family because of it , then diagnosed with multi personality disorder and all the “wonderful things” that go along with it? sometimes life throws you alot of curveballs, however its how you swing the bat that matters!
    Thanks for your time.
    Bobbi


  • Julia Meyer - November 4, 2009 at 2:36 pm #

  • This is the first site I went to upon wanting to write a book. Just thought I would tell you it was perfect and I am still laughing. I have no idea’s of what books you have written, but after reading this page I will look and maybe even buy one. If you have done nothing else today, know that you made someone smile and laugh. We are all looking for the “get rich quick” scheme and you put on black and white….it always boils down to hard work.

    Thanks,
    Julie


  • Dwight Clough - November 5, 2009 at 10:03 am #

  • Good thoughts, Scott. You take the mystery out of this for people getting started.

    A thought for Bobbi: Of course people are interested in your story. I just finished writing a similar book for a client. But give some thought to your purpose for writing. Do you bring something redemptive to your reader? Do you offer hope, healing? Those who read these kind of books will be looking for that.
    Many blessings!
    Dwight
    EmpowerGood.com


  • kelley - November 5, 2009 at 6:53 pm #

  • Im hoping to write a nonfiction about the killing of a mentally ill man in the town of which I live, killed by pilce for being “mentlaly ill.” the family later fogives the shooter after a chance encounter with the shooter, off duty in plain clothes ( unaware of who he is). The story is truly remarkable and touches on miracles and prayers being answered. My problem is, where do I start the story? The birth of the deceased to his eventual killing or work the story backwards, from the killing and go back in time, so that it would not be boring? How do writers know how to start that firt page?


  • amathyst - November 10, 2009 at 1:17 pm #

  • Wow iv always wanted to write a book and {ive tried} but i would get to the end and never know how to finish the storey. and your right its REALLY hard!!!!!!!!!!!!!! but its fun i love reading and writing so i thought oh ive read so many books itll be easy but reading and writing are very differnt things!

    thanks for the article it was really cool and helpful!!
    :D + bye


  • sam - November 10, 2009 at 1:36 pm #

  • so im only 11 so can i write a book ang get it published? i cant get past the first 12 pages would anyone publish it or would they just ignore me and { please dont think im crazy!} i think like im in a book,…… is that bad or will it help me anywho your article REALLY helped

    THANKS :D
    + by = C {kidding i happy}


  • Rod Dyson - November 11, 2009 at 2:47 am #

  • Hi, my name is Rod Dyson. About 6 years ago I was a professional blackjack player. I trained blackjack players and owned and managed a very professional team of blackjack players. We played mainly in Australian and New Zealand casino’s an had a big trip to Las Vegas. 4 of us did a road trip from Vegas to San Diego stopping at every Casino on the way and played until we were either kicked out or about to be kicked out. We won a lot of money and had some amazing experiences with crooked Casino employee’s etc.

    I have been considering writing a book about our exploits and while doing so expose some of the secrets of blackjack that you will never see published in a book. I would like to write about our training program, how our team was run, how the payouts to players worked etc. I would like to combine a book teaching blackjack with the real life experinces of a 10 man blackjack team. intertwining the “lessons” with real life applications.

    The book would be very contriversial in exposing not just how we do it but exactly how we got away with it. Exposing crooked casino staff without names would in itself be contriversial.

    My question to you, do you think this type of book has a chance of success?

    Cheers Rod


  • Travis - November 11, 2009 at 2:24 pm #

  • Ok heres my deal; I don’t read often and NEVER written anything but for some strange reason I want to write a book just to see if I could I want to write a nonfiction modern time horror and I have the Ideas and details but don’t know how to construct or even start a book (ie how many chapters how long the chapters shall be etc.) do you or anyone has advice lemme know


  • Judy Haas - November 11, 2009 at 3:02 pm #

  • Thanks for such practical, sensible advice. I’d much rather hear about the hard part up front than have a nasty surprise later, once I’ve put in time and effort. Much better to begin as I mean to go on.


  • Judy - November 11, 2009 at 3:13 pm #

  • Hey, me again. My first comment was for Scott, but this one is for some of the posters. SPELLING AND GRAMMAR COUNT!!! For a bulletin board composed of writers, this one contains a lot badly spelled comments with embarrassing grammar mistakes. And I don’t mean the 11 year old contributors, I mean the adults. So before you submit anything, anywhere, do make sure someone checks your grammar and spelling. No agent or publisher is going to take you seriously if you submit something that looks like what you wrote on here.


  • Sara - November 14, 2009 at 5:15 pm #

  • This is simple and matter of fact. My first search on “How To Write a Book” and this 2007 article comes up. I appreciate the down-to-earth information and the humor attached to it. Thank you… :)


  • Rhea.dsouza - November 17, 2009 at 7:13 pm #

  • Write books upon the genres that interests you, for me its suspence and crime. One of my favourite authors is Mary Higgins Clark. Try finding out the key features of the books your favourite author writes or the language he/she uses. Trust me you will enjoy writting more that reading once you are edicted to it. Keep trusting and believeing in your self life can be so much happier when you put your worries on a piece of paper.


  • Tommey L. Reed - November 20, 2009 at 5:30 am #

  • I would like to write a book on Alternative energy and the pros and cons…

    This book would have today’s technology for every home owner to solve their own energy problems, using solar, wind and many new technology.

    As a inventor and designer, having patents on advance engine designs offering new technology to build simple low price power station for each home.
    As we all know by now, Governments don’t want us to have anything free. This is one reason why solar power is not cheap, the Sun offers free energy and the solar panels convert that in to free electricity. Governments cant tax free energy, so they make it very hard to get free energy.

    What do you think about my ideas on this book?


  • Harris Matthews - November 23, 2009 at 12:44 pm #

  • Hi Scott,

    I’m 11 years old and I want to become an author just like you (I think your an author) and I’m writing a story can you give a few tips please?

    Sincerely, Harris Matthews


  • Michael Muise - November 25, 2009 at 12:58 pm #

  • Hello, I really enjoyed your reality check on writing a book or books, and the possible reason(s) why someone might be inclined to undertake this particular endeavour, it all makes plain simple common sense. Funny, I had an idea, about writing a book about a person who has Narcissistic Personalty Disorder,the book is called called ” It’s The All About Me book” and inside this little 20 page book, every page would be a white page with the word “Me” in huge black bold letters in the center of the page with a little mirror on the opposing page. I thought the idea was hilarious and I knew it would sell because we all know people like that in our life and there’s times when we’re just itching to give them something like that for Christmas or their birthday(ok that might be a bit over the top).
    I am actually planning to write a spiritual book. I am a medium and a spiritualist and I’ve been prodded by spiritual forces to write a book about Spiritual Pre-Destiny – “Discovering Your Divine Purpose” I have 13 chapters to write, and if anything it will be an engaging read for anyone interested in things of a spiritual nature and a new take and breath of fresh air on a subject that’s been written about as much as the subject of Love,self help etc… blah blah blah… This is not a you’ve completed your word search, your crossword puzzle and your bored, then pick up my book when it’s published, it’ll be a nice and entertaining way to kill time in Starbucks… Thanks – Michael


  • Craig sotkovsky - December 1, 2009 at 1:47 pm #

  • Thanks a million times for your wisdom. Peace


  • Celia - December 7, 2009 at 10:43 am #

  • Loved your introduction! Congrats!
    My question is: I have a post-secondary diploma from a 2-year Tourism program and am currently in a corporate job. I do have great ideas for books and I thought I might try to write one. Do you honestly think I can pull that off with no formal education / experience? thanks,


  • KaylaMag - December 9, 2009 at 12:33 pm #

  • Excellent article and very helpful!
    I think I was making the idea of writing a book more complicated than it really is. The only hard thing for me to figure out now is the subject. I wouldn’t say I’m an expert on anything, but I have a real knack for writing and it’s what I want to do. BUT… it’s my book, right? I guess it can be whatever I want it to be and if it doesn’t work, well I wouldn’t know that until it’s finished.


  • Gary Reeves - December 9, 2009 at 5:17 pm #

  • I have had a burning desire to write an amazing truthful story of my life. No desire to make money, but put the entire story in the proper order.


  • Mikey - December 16, 2009 at 9:14 am #

  • Scott,
    This what every wannabe writer needs to follow. Screw the fluffy books on how to write your way to celebrity and riches, you really hit the spike on the dike. I’ve written and self-published several books, (total of 1200 pgs) mostly about the specialty automotive aftermarket business and I’ve sold close to 5000 copies of one book in particular. Since my business and hobby revolves aroung the hot rod and car customizing industry, that is what I wrote about. My 105 page, 8-1/2″ x 11″ (booklet)on how to run an automotive business sold 1500 copies @ 24.00 each by mail. A couple of press release mentions in 2 industry mags helped. So I feel kinda successful that way.
    Your topic of people wanting to be and actually becoming a successful writer is so true. I takes guts, work, discipline, work, more guts, doing without and a mind of the rebel. No matter what others say, write what you want and stop thinking about F&F (fame and fortune). In my spare time I do abstract art. I paint for physical and mind therapy but when I write it feels like my mind has been fulfilled because my thinking is formalized.

    I have a question for you, I know you travel around and give advice based on what you write about and I’ve had inquiries to do the same but I’m handicapped and cannot travel long distance. Unable to stand for long and walk any distance inhibits my on stage presence before a live audience. However, performing in front of people is easy for me. I’ve been doing that for 30 years in my main business which is severly limited now.
    My question is this – What advice do you have for someone like me when the companies call and want my expertise but I cannot be there physically?
    Thanks
    Mikey Hartman


  • S A GIULLARI - December 16, 2009 at 5:42 pm #

  • WHEN DO YOU KNOW IT’S TIME TO PUT THE ELECTRONIC PEN DOWN – THE BOOK IS FINISHED, YET I AM STILL PULLED TO ITS PAGES CHANGING THE ODD WORD, SENTENCES.

    I AM NOW ON THE 6TH DRAFT OF MY BOOK – I MUST ADMIT, THE RED PEN DOES NOT REAR ITS BEAUTIFUL HEAD AS MUCH AS IT HAD DONE ON DRAFT 1

    IS THIS A NORMAL PROCESS?


  • Gary Reeves - December 17, 2009 at 7:36 am #

  • Since I have never attempted to write a book the process is very new. I have written 4 chapters and every person that has looked it over is totally amazed at the content and how their glued to every page wanting more. Also these are educated readers that I have shared with. Gary


  • saskia - December 22, 2009 at 3:41 am #

  • Im so confused, when i do my daily things, all this magical mindblowing words of passion, intresting feelings come into my mind, but just for a few seconds then they would dissapear again. I get so frustrated because i truly want to write a book, i have everything it takes, i know that. I will get lost in my mind for hours, i hate it to snap back to reality. Are all the things im feeling real, or is it just all the charracters emotions coming out in me??? can someone please give me an answer?


  • Aleks Bouchan - December 26, 2009 at 10:07 pm #

  • its so frustrating for me to have to dream about writing a book. i dont wish i could one day sit down and write a book i want to one day sit and write a book, but not just any regular book in the shelves i want someone out there to connect to my book as well as ive connected to some books that ive read. for example yesterday i was trying to sleep when sudennly i had this strange moment in wich i thought of an amazing story for a book. so today i sat down and nothing. i wrote maybe 1 paragraph and after reading it i new that if anyone where to read this they wouldnt be conected they would regect it like the tens of thousands rejected each day.


  • avilil - December 28, 2009 at 9:03 pm #

  • I want to start by saying “Thank You”. I recently started writing my first book, and this blog makes total sense to me. This because I love reading, I love writing and had a great idea which I believe is perfect for a book.
    I’m a mom 24/7 and have no studies regarding writing books or anything as such.
    My question is:
    Once you have completed the book according to your standards, who is the person that checks the manuscript and makes the editing of grammar etc before you bring it to a publisher? I am really sorry if the question is too naive for this audience, this is my first book and I have no clue regarding the steps after I’m done writing it.
    Thanks Again,
    Lilly


  • Byron Guy - January 1, 2010 at 8:56 am #

  • Thank you Mr. Berkun,

    You have given me exactly what I needed. No fluff – right to the point. Thank you again.

    Byron Guy


  • rachel - January 3, 2010 at 3:22 am #

  • hiya my name is rachel im not looking to write a book to get published i want to write for me but i have so many ideas in my head that wont stop untill i sit down to write them down why is this?? i just want to put my ideas on paper something my children can read when there older and be proud of there mum that she doesnt just cook and clean that she has ideas and a brain of her own please help me make my dream come true

    thank you
    rach x


  • quang cao online - January 7, 2010 at 8:47 pm #

  • That was great, I decided I will make a film instead.


  • Asiaa =] - January 9, 2010 at 4:00 pm #

  • I’m 14 and I want to write book, mostly to get my lifeoffmy chest. I started drugs in grade 7 and it’s been a year since ive stopped. Ever after my life has been a huge dissappointment. I doubt i”ll actually write a book and get it published, I mean i’m 14. I really just want people to read it and get a kids view on life, and i want kids to know how hardit is to get off drugs. I just want people to know and understand shit. and i also want this giant ass horrible feeling to leave me alone, and the best way to do this is to write it down. i honestly don’t really know how to. heelp?


  • Iris Santos - January 11, 2010 at 4:56 pm #

  • Very interesting tips, indeed.

    I’m portuguese and I’ve been writing a book in portuguese for a while now. I already have 70+ pages and, fortunately, I don’t suffer from writer’s block because in this project I’ve been having a very, very fertile mind.

    If in the US it’s hard to be recognized, believe me that in a little country of Europe, it’s much harder because my mother language isn’t english. Our dream is always to get enough famous to get our books published into another languages and be sold worldwide, but we know that 99% of times it just gets stuck as a dream. It never comes true.

    An advice I would give to those who are just starting: don’t dare to write things you don’t know very well yet. While you don’t have experience, the fact that you need to study much more about the subject of the book, will lead you to write even worse, so start from the beggining, not in the halfway.

    P.S.: I’m sorry for my bad english.


  • Melissa Lewis Brown - January 12, 2010 at 2:38 pm #

  • You seem to have covered all that basis, positive and negative. I’m impressed with your candor and your versatility.

    After my mother died, I started scanning old photos and writing something about each one. Mind you this was for my daughters and my grandchildren. This got out of hand, and I started writing stories. Soon after, I took it a bit further, just writing about my every day life, and making some of the stuff up in the interest in reader entertainment. Guess you could call this Creative Writing.

    I’ve entered literally all of my stories at Helium.com just to get a feel of how they read. I don’t mind saying that they are rated pretty high…well most of them are.

    My aim is to put together all of my material, or most of it into something readable by everyone, and keeping the levity in the content. I would be considering something on the order of “Upright and Still Warm”…as I am 62 years old, and there will soon be no one in my family (oldest of 11 siblings), who has journaled what I remember.

    I feel encouraged by reading some of these other responses.


  • hallboy316 - January 14, 2010 at 3:33 pm #

  • I think anyone has what it takes to write a good book.After all your the one writting it.Even if its not good to anyone else remember the writting came from your mind and the storys it beholds.I think people of all ages should write a book or two with in thier life times.For me if a cant meet all the wonderful people of this world at lease i can read something amazing about or from them.

    thanks for the website
    its great.


  • kendall - January 16, 2010 at 2:19 pm #

  • this is not exactly what i was looking for. i have tried to write many books or stories but 5 or 10 pages in, i lose intrest. i think my ideas are good and when i show it to my family they think so to, but i cant keep my mind on the book. i will try this though. wish me luck!!!


  • Revy - January 17, 2010 at 7:38 pm #

  • I’ve recently picked up something I started writing years ago with new character sketches and fresh ideas. I’m hoping to stick with it this time because I know something good will come out of my writing. :]

    Writing is my hobby and I love to do it. :D
    Love your website and great advice!


  • jecika - January 18, 2010 at 7:59 am #

  • All said is true.But i still find it difficult to make a note for myself especially on TIME.PLS HELP ME DO THIS.


  • Jenn - January 18, 2010 at 12:50 pm #

  • My question to you is: how do YOU personally write a book? Do you plan out the plot first on paper; work out what’s going to be in each chapter; or just sit down and start typing and see how the story plays out?
    I have plenty of ideas in my head, but I find that when I start to put them into book-form I get overwhelmed by what should go where, when to end a chapter, and just overall how to put my ideas into something that makes sense to other people.
    How do you form YOUR ideas into a book?
    Thanks


  • Zoe - January 21, 2010 at 12:15 pm #

  • Hello, I’m Zoe. Currently, I am 11 years old. Last year, when I was 10, I decided I wanted to write something. I love to write; I got that from my mum. so, I started to write a sci-fi book. Now, it stands at 247 pages, though it is still far from finnished. What I need is some advice, since I am quite young to be an author, I wonder if adults wouldn’t take me seriously. I assume if a publisher was sent a book by a child, he would throw it away without a second thought. What is your opinion on this?


  • Julie - January 22, 2010 at 7:07 am #

  • I have wanted to write a novel about my experience as a young girl growing up among boys in a polygamous family. when I walk on the street or sleeping, I keep on thinking about both bad and good experience and how I could write a book about it. But I wanted to speak to an adviser about the content of my stories and see if it is something worth writing about. Please I will appreciate your advice.


  • Dawn Savoia - January 24, 2010 at 7:01 am #

  • Well said Scott, your honesty is just what everyone needs to hear. I can’t stand it when people try to BS the reality of things so it was nice to read your thoughts. Honesty really is the best policy. Thanks for sharing!

    Dawn Savoia


  • Ken - January 24, 2010 at 6:37 pm #

  • Great advice. I am completing an illustrated humorous book after letting it set over 15 years. I finally got over the fact of making money writing. I have a real occupation and decided to do my writing for pleasure and publish to share with others soon. Also, I told my children original stories of characters I made up while in high school and my son started to put those in electronic documents. I am currently editing those. We hope to have those available in a year if possible. It does take hard work. I am doing this while working full time, attending school part time and raising a family. Thank you again.


  • Anthya Flores - January 25, 2010 at 8:12 am #

  • Hey,
    Liked all the articles. Helped see the other side of writing, pitching and just blurring through!!

    Thanks for caring enough to share and advice.

    A


  • Opene Anthony - January 30, 2010 at 4:03 am #

  • I have always wanted to write a book since when I was a little boy. I don’t know if I can make my dreams come true. Anyway, I will begin now and start writing on a subject or topic. I am interested in nature, sufferings in the society, religion and children. Thanks


  • Tomas Marques - February 3, 2010 at 2:20 pm #

  • Whenever I feel like doing something new or whenever I feel like I have a pretty good idea I get doubts like most people. And when I do so, I look up information on the net about the subject to inform myself before I start doing it. Most of the time I get linked to blogs like this, with articles where the bigheaded writer explains about how hard it is to make it happen. Blogs that discourage me and make me not doing anything in the end.

    But this time I have to thank the writer for making me realize I shouldn’t care about blogs like this. I shouldn’t care about the opinion of writers who don’t even know the difference between “then” and “than”.

    I wish you luck on continuing discouraging your potential competitors and getting passively paid for making simple money making blogs with opinionated and subjective information without any given research or whatsoever at all.


  • Thomas Trager - February 6, 2010 at 1:12 pm #

  • The article was perfection. For me I guess. Ever since I was a kid I’ve loved books, was an early reader. I’ve had some success writing in the business world, done some short stories for some groups that were appreciated. But I always held back (I guess) from the real WORK, practice and attention, to do more.

    The article was a great piece of communication, and it’s appreciated. If I need to get to work at it, than (heh-heh) maybe I need to get to it.

    Thanks much.


  • dreq - February 9, 2010 at 7:57 pm #

  • i know how to write a book i just don’t know what it should be about


  • ChickenSoupFan - February 11, 2010 at 10:53 pm #

  • @Unpublished_but_better_than_you LOL! the author already edited the I think typo error, he writes very well in my opinion, because I got hooked up reading the article. For people who also wants to write a book and wants to know how to publish and market it, the famous, Mark Victor Hansen of Chicken Soup For The Soul series has now opened a website where he shares his knowledge to aspiring authors.


  • mitchi - February 14, 2010 at 5:25 pm #

  • let me put this as delicately as i can. this is good shit. full stop.


  • Graham Karssen - February 15, 2010 at 3:36 pm #

  • HI,
    Thank you for your very useful advice. One question remains for me. As I am not a professional writer I believe the only way to have a snowflake of a chance to be seriously read is to write a really unique story. How can I protect my story from being used by a more professional writer as the base for his novel? How do i get a “copywrite” protection?

    Regards Graham.


  • whiteshark0121 - February 16, 2010 at 7:53 am #

  • Great article, I always keep myself looking for new tips and ways on how to improve my writing and one of my favorite mentor on learning how to write a book is Mark Victor Hansen, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul.


  • Alexander Dallas - February 19, 2010 at 10:06 pm #

  • I want to know about process. I have a story in mind and I write down every idea or plot twist I can come up with. Is it better to just write down a story pulling page for page ideas out of your head or is it better to write out all the back story and notes and pull the pieces into one story?


  • Nigel - February 21, 2010 at 10:31 pm #

  • I like your honesty. I was involved in voiceover for years and I would get similar questions from people. I also believe that just because a person is talented in one creative venue doesn’t mean they can write. That’s sort of how I feel about myself.
    Thanks for the article.


  • Juat Muay - February 22, 2010 at 12:46 am #

  • I get it. Writing is work. Thanks for the very humorous shortest truth. Laugh and learn.


  • Amy Roberts - February 26, 2010 at 10:05 am #

  • Actually this is just a comment, I found your advice to be the best advice i have ever heard or read. I have been sitting on a book for 3 years scared to do anything with it. I have finally however for lack of better words have found the balls to do something with it. So i am writing the second of the series and finding it easier then the 1st one. To be honest i have never let anyone read it, but i am not scared anymore. I am sure Bane my hero that is not really a hero is relieved to be taken out of the closet and dusted off. After work I will be comeing back and hitting up the links to see what i need to do for i am great at folowing instructions when i want to. And i must say Mr. Berkun you have a wonderful day.

    Amy Roberts (Dusk)


  • dilipe - March 8, 2010 at 4:22 pm #

  • Scott – this is a great article, thank you heaps !

    Riviera – Thanks for your humour and inspiration.”Thou shall remain happy at all times in the pursuit of happiness”

    Stormy – I wish you good luck in advance;i hope it is your topmost priority now.I will read it when it comes in print.

    And, thank you everyone for sharing resources, insights, information and most importantly, enthusiasm.Good Luck Everyone !


  • Tammy - March 9, 2010 at 4:12 pm #

  • I appreciated reading this article and the comments. I just starting writing a book. I’m not in it for the money (although I wouldn’t turn it down), I had this crazy dream one night that was so vivid I had to get it out of my head. Before I knew it, I had, what I feel, is an awesome plot to a story. So, I’m writing a story. If I finish the book, I’ll try to get it published. I mostly want to get it out of my head and into a story that grabs people and keeps them moving. If I can do that, I’m an author, right?! I have let several people at work read what I have completed (which is a prologue and 4 chapters now) and they all are begging me for more. Wanting to know what happens next. That’s pretty cool!


  • Fazal M. Khan - March 13, 2010 at 9:29 am #

  • Hello Scott Berkun! With regards to your advice on writing, I find it sound and necessary for people to know and understand that the process of writing a book is work-oriented, just like owning a business. It was good to have that notion reinforced and I believe I am ready to engage within the process. I appreciate your narrative and may have to resort to you every once in awhile. Thank you very much.


  • john lilgreen - March 13, 2010 at 9:49 pm #

  • Hello, i actually enjoyed reading this article and yes it was very helpful. Unlike many i have talked to in the past and heard from about this subject, the reason i am interested in becoming a writer is not for the “riches”, it is simply to create my own world and see it come alive on the pages of a book. To be honest i also very much enjoy the work and effort it takes to write the book, any good adventure requires work. The only problem i have is coming up with dialogue for my characters, i have a detailed history on my world, including detailed history o all different species, races, and characters, i have a map drawn up for referance, and even details on how the book will go and sub details there within to help. I do try to have as many details as possible on everything before i start writing the book, it seems to help, but dialogue is the hard part, once again, everything i come up with seems to either run on forever without point or is incredibly lame.

    any advise by chance?

    thank you for any time you put into this letter.
    John L.


  • SHAWNTEL PERKINS - March 16, 2010 at 9:28 am #

  • HEY I’M TRYING TO WRITE A BOOK CAN YOU HELP ME PLEASE THANKS YOU CAN CONTACT ME AT MY EMAIL ADDRESS OR THIS NUMBER 432-7788 THANKS


  • SHAWNTEL PERKINS - March 16, 2010 at 9:30 am #

  • SORRY IT’S 431-7788 THANKS


  • Johan - March 16, 2010 at 12:35 pm #

  • Very useful in the way that you point out some very basic pros and cons about writing, the article points out some stuff that to some folks could be a reality check.

    This is ofcourse my own personal opinion :)

    Hope this was a bit creative criticism

    // Yo-Han


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