Resources
Need a boost? A kick? A spark? Enjoy this collection of some of my favorite resources—writing tips, conferences, contests, finding an agent, getting published, and creating buzz for your book.
Aspects of the Novel
Classic by E.M. Forster. Study of seven elements vital to a novel: story, people, plot, fantasy, prophecy, pattern, and rhythm.
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life
A mix of writing guidance and reflection by Anne Lamott. All about starting small.
Guide to Writers Conferences & Writing Workshops
A comprehensive list of workshops, creative career writing programs, and literary retreats.
Poets & Writers
An invaluable resource for writers of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Find writing tools, contests, conferences, and all you need to get an agent and publish
The Art of Time in Fiction: As Long as It Takes
Joan Silber illustrates five key ways in which time unfolds in fiction. While you're on the site, check out the other The Art of . . . books.
AgentQuery
A database of literary agents for all genres.
How to Write a Book Proposal
The resource for getting your book published. Step-by-step instructions from agent and author Michael Larsen.
Mediabistro
Sign up for a class, learn exactly what publishers look for in a book proposal, figure out your target readership. An amazing resource.
Poet's and Writer's Database of Small Presses
Poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction—research publisher interests, contact information, and submission guidelines.
Publishers Marketplace
An industry website that costs $25/month. Stay current with who’s representing whom, who’s publishing what, and what authors are up to.
Publishers Lunch
Whether or not you join Publishers Marketplace, you can subscribe to this free, daily newsletter with updates about who’s publishing what.
The Book Designer
Joel Friedlander's website and blog—writing, designing, publishing, marketing your book.
The Independent Publishing Magazine
Find the right publishing and e-publishing service.
1001 Ways to Market Your Books
No matter how you publish, you need this book.
Build Book Buzz
Resources (including classes) to help you publicize, promote, and market your book.
DIY Book Tour
Sharon Buck's 101 tips for do-it-yourself book tours. Topics include, virtual bookstores, groupies, and radio tours.
Jane Friedeman: Writing, reading, and publishing in the digital age
One of the best resources around. You'll want to take a look at her Free Advice for Writers.
Writer Unboxed
More than 400 blogs about marketing your book.