Writing a novel: First or third person?
One of the key decisions you make when writing a novel is deciding what perspective, or point of view (POV) it should have. More simply,
What Editors Look for (and Avoid) in Backstory
Download This Seminar’s Handout Backstory is key to writing your story, creating engaging characters, and driving the plot forward. It provides history or background context.
Tips For Outlining a Novel
Authors have various methods when it comes to writing a novel. Some are Pantsers, or those who write by the seat of their pants rather
Advice for first-time novel writers
Getting started on a novel for the first time can be a daunting process. Or is it? Perhaps we should rephrase that to, starting a
Creative Writing Advice from Joanne Lane
My name is Joanne Lane, and I am one of the editors at FirstEditing. Before dipping my toe into the world of children’s manuscripts, PhD
Is There a Formula for Writing Fiction?
Famed horror writer Stephen King famously told The Wall Street Journal, “The thing is, I don’t outline, I don’t have whole plots in my head
Is There a Formula for Writing Fiction?
Most fiction writers have an image of themselves in their favorite writing nook, comfy, beverage of choice nearby, clicking away at the keyboard and filling
The Difference Between Fiction and Non-fiction Writing
Fiction and non-fiction are the two most bandied words used to describe literature. If you’ve ever struggled to get your head around what the F
Sense of Sound
In this chapter, Kristina Stanley from Fictionary joins us again as we move right along with our exploration of the 38 elements of a story.
Sense of Smell
Kristina Stanley from Fictionary joins JoEllen Nordstrom to talk about the sense of smell. Previously, we covered sense within the “setting” story element, and
