Tip Tuesday #177 - Tim Johnson on Teaching Children a Second Language

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Hi everyone! I have something a little different today. Tips on teaching children a second language from children's author Tim Johnson. You can find Tim at his website, and his books on Amazon.  Enjoy!

Remember when your child said their first word?  Maybe you're still waiting for it.  This is a great time in their lives because they are putting sounds together based on what they hear around them and starting to structure their own little vocal chords accordingly.

If you're considering raising your child to speak a second language, you should consider doing it sooner rather than later.  Children who grow up hearing a second language around them are far more likely to speak with a native accent when they get older.  Adult learners may have the ability to learn several languages, but without the developmental stages of hearing these languages and constructing appropriate vocal patterns, you may never speak like a true native.

The first step to getting your children comfortable with a second language is simply, exposure.  This is seemingly a simple concept, but should not be underestimated.  They are spending so much time listening to the sounds around them, even if they are seemingly busy doing a vast magnitude of other things, and contemplating how they might make those sounds when the time comes.

Here are a few things to try to build their exposure to a second language:

Listen to music.  Even though sometimes lyrics are difficult to understand, the intonation and accent are often apparent.  Even better, the cadence and prose with which song lyrics are delivered offer the opportunity for more structured, left-brained, associations to arise.

Read books.  Children’s books are a wonderfully engaging way to encourage exposure to a second language.  Even if children don’t quite understand all of the words in the story, they are easily engaged in the illustrations, and over time they will build correlations between illustrations and the words.  It is also easy and engaging to point to parts of the illustration and use the appropriate vocabulary.

I am the author of several dual-language books which are written in two languages, with side-by-side translations that are actually designed to teach foreign language or English as a second language.  The translations also include highlighted words in both languages so that simple correlations in vocabulary can be made when reading.  Many of the illustrations are labelled in both languages so that children can, in addition to hearing the words when you point to the pictures, can actually SEE the words and letters of the second language and immediately relate them to the picture.

Tim Johnson discovered the power of bilingual books while visiting Japan as a teenager. In 2011 he started writing the Adventures of Bosley Bear series with the hope of reading these books to his own future children and exposing them to new words and sounds.

Now Bosley Bear is recognized around the world and Tim is committed to continuing the series and educating children about foreign language and culture for years to come. Tim works as a mechanical engineer, and author, and lives on the seacoast of Maine with his wonderful wife and two incredible twin boys.

 

TIP TUESDAY #174 S.J. LOMAS ON IMPRESSING LIBRARIANS WITH YOUR BOOK AND DREAM GIRL GIVEAWAY

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Natalie here. Today I’ve got a great tip on how to impress librarians with your book by S.J. Lomas. I’ll admit that this is a burning question for me. S.J. has a debut YA book, DREAM GIRL, releasing this month. Details of the giveaway are at the end of the post.

So here’s S.J.

How to Impress Librarians with your Book

1. Although it goes against the “don’t judge a book by its cover” platitude, your book should have a professional and appealing cover. A good way to figure out if your cover measures up, look at the books in the library. Does your cover resemble the quality and graphic trends of those on the shelves or could you play a game of “one of these things is not like the others”?

2. Librarians often need reviews to fall back on in the event that a book is challenged. Also, with the limited financial resources in the collection budgets these days, librarians can’t justify buying a book that comes with no reputable recommendations. Of course, we can’t all get a write up in Publisher’s Weekly or the New York Times, but if you can get your local paper, or an author blurb from someone with credibility to write a review or blurb, it can help your case.

3. Have a quality product. It’s true, all of us are the next great American novelist, but even they needed a good proofreader and editor. Make sure your work is clean and professional. Poor writing will keep your book off the shelf for sure.

4. Don’t act like your book is a precious gift direct from your golden pen to the librarian. They get a lot of solicitations from local authors. Remember the three Ps: be professional, polite, and pleasant.

5. Do your homework. Publishers expect you to be knowledgeable about the market for your work, use that knowledge when you approach a librarian. Clearly indicate the genre, audience and appeal of your book. Think about why your book would be of interest to the specific community that library serves. Once you have that knowledge, ask for the appropriate librarian for your book. Librarians are in charge of different collections. The librarian who orders cookbooks may be different from the one who orders travel books.

6. Be clear. Are you outright donating your book to the collection, regardless of what the library chooses to do with it? If the library doesn’t decide to add it to the collection, do you expect it returned?

7. Don’t burn any bridges. If the librarian doesn’t add your book, don’t be rude. Librarians work in a highly cooperative industry. You don’t want to make a name for yourself as the local author who’s obnoxiously pushy or mean. They’ll remember that when you come around with your next book. Similarly, they’ll remember if you were polite and professional. And that goes a long way.

S.J. Lomas is a cheerful Michigan girl who likes to write strange and somewhat dark YA fiction. She has also been a librarian for eight years but has worked in libraries for seventeen years. Her debut novel, Dream Girl, is forthcoming from Scribe Publishing this November. Find out more at www.sjlomas.com

Here’s a blurb of DREAM GIRL from Goodreads:

For Christine, dreams have never meant much. Until she meets Gabriel. Everyone thinks Christine should stay away from her new coworker at the library—thanks to his bad reputation—but when her dreams grow more vivid and she becomes entangled in a dangerous dream world with Gabriel every night, she can’t stay away. Soon it’s clear there is far more to dreams than Christine ever imagined, and now she’s on the path to making the biggest, and strangest, decision of her life.

S.J. has generously offered a copy of DREAM GIRL for a giveaway. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment by November 16th. I’ll announce the winner on November 18th. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter. International entries are welcome.

Hope to see you next Monday when I have an interview with a 9th grader for my ASK THE EXPERT series and EARTHBOUND and UNTHINKABLE giveaways.

TIP TUESDAY #173 MARIA DISMONDY ON GIVING BACK TO YOUR FANS

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Natalie here. Today I’ve got a great tip on giving back to your fans by Maria Dismondy, who has shared several other great tips with us. Maria is the author of THE POTATO CHIP CHAMP: DISCOVERING WHY KINDESS COUNTS

So here’s Maria.

Giving Back to Your Fans

As authors, we write books to share a story with our audience. Our fans purchase our books, which makes it possible for us to keep writing. It’s a wonderful cycle of doing what we love, and being rewarded in return. But have you ever stopped to give back to your fans? Here are some simple ways I like to show readers my appreciation. 

Prizes Galore

Everyone loves a prize! So I like to give away trinkets at my book signing events. The Oriental Trading website is my go-to for inexpensive items that I can buy in bulk. To pick the item, I find an object that relates to my book’s theme. Things like baseballs, stars, cookies, etc. work great. Bookmarks are always nice, too. And even though candy is easy (and delicious!), I like to stick to ‘things’ vs. anything edible. Whatever you choose, include purchasing information and book images for an added special touch.  

“Can I Have Your Autograph?”

Readers love having a book signed by the author. Even I have waited in long lines just to christen my book with my favorite authors’ John Hancock! Giving fans a chance to meet you in person is an exciting opportunity. Bookplates are also a nice option – simply sign and mail to any fans that request an autograph but can’t make it to your event. To set up a book signing and let the fun begin, simply contact your local bookstores – they’ll know the drill!

Sign, Sealed, Delivered -- Fan Mail!

As a former teacher, we studied a different author each month. We spent time reading their books and learning about their writing styles. At the end of each study, we would write a letter to the author. It was always a treat to receive something back in the mail. We didn’t always get a hand written note, which is completely understandable, but the handwritten ones were treasures we held onto! Open the door to receiving fan mail by setting up a P.O. Box in your pen name. Then post the address on your website and watch the letters roll in!

Review Rewards

When a blogger reviews one of my books, I like to say, “thanks” by sending a free, signed book their way. Then they can give it away to their own fans and keep the circle of gratitude going! Coffee gift cards are another one of my go-to gifts. 

Free, Fun Downloads

With each book I write, I offer a free download on my website. For teachers/parents, this includes lesson plans and activities that correlate to my book. (I’ve written Reader’s Guides myself but, more recently, I’ve hired teachers to create the lessons.) For the kids, I offer coloring pages designed by the illustrators of my books. It’s added touches like these that go a long way in the eyes of your fans – young and old!

Maria Dismondy, mother of two (with one on the way), reading specialist, fitness instructor and bestselling children’s author living in Southeast Michigan. You can find Maria at:

Website

Blog

Twitter

Pinterest

Here’s a blurb of THE POTATO CHIP CHAMP from Goodreads:

Champ and Walter Norbert Whipplemoore are about as different as two kids can bewell, except for their love of baseball and potato chips. Champ had everything, but always wanted more. Walter had very little, but was never seen without a smile on his face. In the end, it is Walter and some crunchy potato chips that teach Champ a lesson about character that can't be taught in school.

  

Hope to see you tomorrow when I have a guest post by debut author Kit Grindstaff and a giveaway of THE FLAME IN THE MIST, a MG creepy fantasy.

TIP TUESDAY #172 J. CURTIS MACE ON CHAPTERING AND KEEPING THE PEACE GIVEAWAY

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Natalie here. Today I’ve got a great tip on strengthening your chapters by J. Curtis Mace. He’s the author of NALAMIST FALLS: SUPERNATURAL PREP SCHOOL FOR WITCHES, WEREWOLVES, AND VAMPIRES: KEEPING THE PEACE. Details of the giveaway are the end of the post.

So here’s J. Curtis.

Chaptering is something I’ve worked on a lot. I believe it is one of the most important aspects of writing, aside from Plot. The main objective to writing a book is having it read, from cover to cover. While not many readers will devour a book in one sitting, it is always the hope that it is difficult for them to put our book down. We want them to keep reading, and then they finally have to stop to eat/sleep/live in real life again, we want them just itching to get back to our story to see what happens next. Like I said, I've worked on this a lot, a LOT (I actually made changes to most of my chapter endings right before publication – I didn’t change the narrative as much; I just changed the place in the narrative where the chapter ended).

One piece of advice/criticism I got from a friend was that chapters shouldn’t end on scene changes; they should end on tension changes. That would be my advice to other writers, my Tuesday Tip. If the scene is over and everything is settled and the chapter ends, that’s a great place to put a book down (and go get a snack or go and live in the real world again). But if a scene is progressing and drama is building and then something completely unexpected/scary/pivotal happens or is revealed and then the chapter ends, a reader’s natural instinct is to keep reading. If they're fully invested in the story/characters and what is going on, they'll NEED to keep reading. I wanted most of my chapters (as many as I could) to end with a big, fat “Holy Crap!” moment, so the reader will start reading the next chapter just to see that everyone made it through alright. Having chapters end right in the middle of the climactic moment when all the questions in the reader’s head are just about to be answered is a good way to keep the pages turning. Smacking them in the face with an unexpected twist or confrontation that they know will lead to crazy places is another.

Tension is another important tool of writing. When you've brought a reader to a point where the tension is at it's highest and then you introduce something into the scene that could possibly break everything, that's the place to end the chapter. Keep the readers turning pages just to make sure the world you created for them is still there. And it makes for a fun and easy place to start the next chapter too.

You can find Curtis at http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/jcmace11

J.Curtis is generously offering an e-book of KEEPING THE PEACE for a giveaway. Here’s a blurb from Goodreads:

Being a young werewolf in the Fifth Grade at a supernatural prep school comes with its own built-in drama. Angry witches and warlocks, pesky vampires, and new girls who know way too much about everything are all part of the norm; no need to go looking for trouble.

So, when the older group of vampire bullies is charged with stealing the witches’ most powerful book of spells, Rusty doesn’t get involved. Given all the torment and atomic wedgies, which vampires are particularly good at giving out, he’d rather leave the Bishop Boys to the comeuppance they deserve. But when he learns that the elder peace in Nalamist Falls actually hangs in the balance, he has no choice.

A species war will destroy Rusty’s world and all the relationship he’s made with his supernatural friends, his only friends really.

Wedgies or no, Rusty and his friends commit to doing whatever they can to keep the peace, even interfering in “grown-up” business that turns out to... More > be way bigger than any of them ever expected.

To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment through November 2nd. I’ll announce the winner on November 4th. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter. International entries are welcome.

Hope to see you tomorrow when I’m interviewing my awesome critique partner Lori Sawicki, who recently self-published her MG contemporary story, THE POWER OF TWO. It’s a fantastic contemporary story about bullying and friendship. I loved the vivid, complex characters Lori created in Jamie and Pru.

TIP TUESDAY #171 SANDY CARLSON ON SCHOOL VISITS AND THE TOWN THAT DISAPPEARED GIVEAWAY

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Natalie here. Today I’ve got a fantastic tip by Sandy Carlson on school visits. Details about the giveaway with be at the end of the post.

So here’s Sandy.

AUTHOR SCHOOL VISITS BY A FORMER TEACHER

Having been a teacher of kids in K-5 for many years, I was never worried about doing school visits for my historical fiction, THE TOWN THAT DISAPPEARED, published last March. I love history. I love teaching. I love being around kids. I am a kid. (Just don’t look at my photo.)

I’m aware that in these days and times the author (both traditionally- and self-published) ends up doing most of the marketing and promotions for the book herself. I’m a writer. I’m a teacher. So what did I know about this whole new field of marketing, etc.? Nothing! I seriously needed a plan.

Sandy’s School Visits Plan:

First, for about three months prior to publication, I went cross-eyed reading nothing but about school visits and marketing and publicizing and doing promos.

Second, I planned what to wear during my school visit outfit. Since I wrote a historical novel, my clothing ought to be historic-looking. It would also make me stand out from the everyday adult teacher. More research.

Third, I attended author visits of writer friends at different schools, taking copious notes. (As both a teacher and a writer, I’d already attended over 30 author visits before this time, but needed to keep fresh.)

Fourth, I contacted teachers I knew in town (all five), and offered them free classroom or school visits. I figured I had to get my name (and story) out there, plus, it would give me experience for the future.

Fifth, I looked up educational standards or common core for my target ages and I set up eight distinct sessions from which teachers could choose for their visit (e.g., the Victorian/Pioneer age, revisions, plot, character, etc.). I also asked the teachers what they themselves wanted to see in an author visit. As a former teacher who’d weekly made up lesson plans, I adapted each visit to each teacher expectations or requests. The first month my book was published, I’d visited with eighteen classrooms, K-4, with more elementary school and middle school classes planned for later in the spring.
Sixth, I handed out evaluation sheets to the teachers with a SASE so I could see, in their opinions, what worked or didn’t.

Seventh, via email, I contacted principals and media specialists in schools around the area in which the story takes place, and researched other locations where the story would be of particular interest for future contacts.

The hardest part of all this was getting over my shy self, and boldly telling others about my book, THE TOWN THAT DISAPPEARED! The rest has been pure fun!

Bio: Sandy is a former teacher and present author and speaker. Her latest book is yet another historical fiction titled TALES OF THE LOST SCHOONER about sailing around Michigan’s Mitt in 1854. (Yay! She gets to wear her hoop skirt some more.)

Here’s a blurb about THE TOWN THAT DISAPPEARED from Goodreads:

Act of man or act of God? Just how many homes and friends does a kid have to lose in twelve years?

Driven from his neighborhood during the Chicago fire of 1871, Adrian and his parents move to the Michigan wilderness where his father lands a job at the sawmill. The town is called Singapore - as if a name could make a tiny spit of a town into a great seaport.

Adrian finds it difficult to adjust to his new surroundings. Back in Chaicago, it was easy to keep his hobby a secret, even from his father. But in this small town, will people discover who the true knitter of the family is? Only his best friend, big R.T., keeps Adrian level, even though R.T. does have that habit of speaking in animal dialects.

Then, just as Adrian starts to feel that Singapore is his home, he discovers the moving sand dunes along the Lake Michigan shore are slowly burying his town. He tries to stop it, but how can he fight both man and nature?

Sandy has generously offered a print copy of THE TOWN THAT DISAPPEARED to U.S. residents and an e-book to International residents. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment by midnight on September 28th. I’ll announce the winner on September 30th. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter. International entries are welcome.

Tomorrow I’m interviewing one of our followers, debut author Christina Lee, and giving away an e-book of her new fantastic adult novel, ALL OF YOU, a contemporary romantic story with great characters.

Hope to see you tomorrow!

Tip Tuesday #169 AND GIVEAWAY OF THE CIRCLE

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Hi Everyone! Natalie here today. Today I have a fantastic tip by middle grade author Cindy Cipriano on character development. Her new middle grade fantasy, THE CIRCLE, was released June 1st. Details of the giveaway will be at the end of the post.

So here’s Cindy.

Love Your Characters

Ah, your characters. You know, those folks you create to tell your story? No matter their disposition, good, bad, or just plain mean, you’ve gotta love ‘em. If not, who will?

I spend a great deal of time when it comes to character development. I want my characters to move beyond the written page and into the lives of my readers. I want my readers to love my characters, to worry about them, and cheer them on.

Character development is more than giving your characters interesting lives, friendships, and hair/eye color. When introducing your character, be slow to reveal details. This gives your readers time to get to know them. It’s really pretty simple, I mean in real life you wouldn’t say, “Hi this is my friend Dessie. She’s 35 and a mess. She’s lost every job she’s ever held, and no man is good enough for her. Even her cats run away.” This detailed, but rushed introduction may leave your reader feeling frustrated with Dessie, when what you were hoping for was a little compassion.

Revealing Dessie’s “issues” in a gradual manner allows your reader to connect to her, sympathize with her, dislike the boyfriends she’s rejected, and maybe understand she’s more of a dog person. Your readers will grow to like Dessie and hope she will thrive in all of those challenging situations you’ve got in store for her.

Maintain reader interest in your characters by making them dynamic. Let your readers see them at their most vulnerable, when they experience self-doubt, as well as when they succeed. This allows your readers to invest in your character’s future. I love hearing from readers who are very much worried about characters in my stories. “What will happen to them?” “Are they all right?” This engagement with my readers tells me I’ve done my part with character development.

I’ve even included “deleted scenes” on my website so readers can learn even more about my characters. Please visit www.TheSidheSeries.com to see what I mean. And, if you’ve read The Circle, I hope you will let me know how I’ve done using one of the forms on the same site.

Happy Writing!
Cindy Cipriano

Bio:
Cindy Cipriano lives in North Carolina with her husband, son, and 27 pets. Okay, maybe not 27. More like three dogs, one cat, and many, many, fish. Cindy enjoys spending time with her family, writing, and the avoidance of cooking.

Cindy is a 2012 recipient of the Burroughs Wellcome Fund PRISM award, and was named Outstanding Science Teacher in 2009 by the NC Science Teachers Association.

The Circle is Cindy’s first novel, and the first book in the Sidhe Series. Two of her short stories, "What Lance Saw," and "Miller's Island," were published in the children's anthology, Doorway to Adventure (September, 2010).

Here’s a description of THE CIRCLE from Goodreads:

Calum Ranson is sure of three things: his cousin Finley is alive, Calum will find him, and no one knows Calum and his family are Sidhe. No one until Laurel shows up at his mother’s bookstore wearing a dark clan’s mark.

When Calum learns the details surrounding the disappearance of Laurel’s brother, he suspects the evil Hobayeth clan. Calum and Laurel work together in the Realm of Man and the Otherworld to rescue her brother – revealing a connection between Calum and Laurel that may cost Finley his life.

Cindy has generously offered a copy of THE CIRCLE for a giveaway. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment by midnight on July 27th. I’ll announce the winner on July 29th.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter. This is for US/Canada residents only.

Hope to see you next Monday when I interview author Dianne Salerni’s daughter for my ASK THE EXPERT series and give away an ARC of THE 5TH WAVE, an awesome sci-fi/dystopian novel.

Tip Tuesday #168

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Kristin Lenz is a social worker and writer who blogs at YA Fusion with a group of YA authors. Please stop by and share her good news - she recently signed with an agent! And she has an ARC giveaway to celebrate. But first, here's her tip:

In May, I attended a wonderful SCBWI conference. Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and both Ohio chapters joined forces to host the Wild, Wild Midwest Conference. We had many, many choices of workshops with authors, agents, and editors, and I attended three with Kendra Levin, an editor at Viking. 

I had always planned to study more about The Hero's Journey and Archetypes (Joseph Campbell's books are often recommended by editors and writing instructors), and that was the focus of one of Kendra's workshops. Usually, I understand the Hero's Journey when it's applied to a fantasy like Harry Potter, but it's trickier to apply to a contemporary, realistic story, which is mostly what I write.

If you've studied these archetypes, you'll remember the Hero, the Mentor, the Allies, the Shadow, etc., and Kendra helped us apply these roles to characters in our own stories. My biggest take-away from her talk was to remember that other characters need to have their own story, not just your protagonist. It's not enough to simply be a sidekick best friend - what is their journey?

It's not enough to have a villain who is all evil and bad; Even the Shadow sees himself as the hero of his own story. And it was enlightening to realize that I had intuited much of this into my revisions already, deepening the story. I even realized that I had created a Shapeshifter character - someone who seems to be one thing, but turns out to be another.

I think that's the best way to apply these lessons - intuitively. Study and understand the Hero's Journey, but don't try to follow it rigidly like a plot prescription. And that led right into Kendra Levin's other workshop that I attended: Intuitive Revision. Here's a great post from Writer Unboxed that elaborates on Why the Hero's Journey is a Tourist Trap.

At YA Fusion, I have an ARC giveaway of All the Truth That's in Me, a YA novel that was edited by Kendra Levin at Viking. After attending Kendra's workshops, I had high expectations for this book - you're going to be impressed too! Good luck on your writing journeys-

Kristin Lenz

Tip Tuesday #167

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Hey all! I hope your summer is off to a great start. We've been busy hitting the parks, barbecuing, and entertaining guests from out of town. Need to get a beach trip in soon!

But today, I have a new tip from Heather Villa who authored tips #150 and #161. You can find her at her website, Heather Villa Writers, and on Twitter.  Enjoy!

Literary Love 

Are you in love with the story you’re writing? Or do you just sort of like it? Your answer will make a difference in how your literary commitment is perceived.

Falling in love with the words you write, often parallels falling in love with a person. Not everyone will support your opinion. However, when you sincerely present your commitment, others may eventually see what you see.

When I brought my boyfriend home to meet my family, he wore an Iron Maiden t-shirt, and his long hair, cascading down his back, covered the tour dates. Following obligatory handshakes, my dad called me aside and asked, “Are you crazy?” Then my teenage sister whispered, “Is he upwardly mobile?” My mom’s reaction towards my new man was different. She liked what she saw. She had an advantage. I already told her many fascinating tidbits about the guy in my life. On that memorable day, within a couple of hours of visiting, my entire family started to also fall in love with my boyfriend. My confidence in my rock band boyfriend was infectious, elevating his honorable qualities to an irresistible level.

Before I even thought about introducing my boyfriend to my family, I got to know him. He is level headed in stressful situations, has a weird ability to retain useless information about nerdy facts, and is a sweet son. Plus, he is fun. I no longer simply liked him, I loved him.

If you only like the story you’re writing, maybe you haven’t really gotten to know the essence of your narrative. The writing process is similar to young love.

We all know that books should ideally begin with a spectacular declaration. The words shape what’s to come. Not always, but sometimes, the first opening sentences, in the early drafts of a manuscript are awkward. A writer is simply “getting to know” the tale to be told.

In new love interests there are unknowns. But when each other’s passions, dislikes, and even fears are revealed, the awkwardness subsides. Plus, when experiences are shared, relationships become more grounded. And what’s also revealed, are the quirks. Hopefully, another person’s annoying little habits aren’t a deal breaker. What’s left is a multi layered connection.

Manuscripts deserve time to mature. The relationship between an author and the story itself can be complicated. And even messy. Yet, time does heal a manuscript that’s rough around the edges, revealing the unseen. Eventually, the author will fall in love with the story more deeply than ever imagined.

 Isn’t it obvious when two people are madly in love? There’s an energy that can’t be concealed. While some onlookers will embrace what they see, others will look away. That’s a reality.

But when a story is loved by the author; there will be a circle of captivated followers.

Epilogue: I married my boyfriend.

~Heather Villa

Tip Tuesday #166 And Giveaway of WRITTEN IN STONE

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Hi Everyone! Natalie here today. Today I have a fantastic tip by middle grade author Rosanne Parry on how to research multi-cultural characters. And she’s offering a giveaway of her new book, WRITTEN IN STONE, which releases June 25th. Details of the giveaway will be at the end of the post. You can find Rosanne at her Website.

Researching Native American Characters

Native Americans are integral to our national history and yet they are the least commonly portrayed non-white characters in children’s literature. I think many authors fear "getting it wrong" and find it easier to leave Native American characters out of their stories than risk possible criticism. But leaving Indians out of the books children read is far more damaging than any factual error would be. After all, a mistake is an invitation to a conversation, but to leave Native American's out of the conversation entirely is dehumanizing and communicates the message that the world of books is no place for an Indian child. Nobody wants that. The answer is to include the Native American character where it's appropriate as best you can and be diligent in your research. Fortunately this has never been easier. Here are 6 steps to take when researching Native American content and characters.

1. First of all, be specific about which tribe you are representing. The Native American experience varies widely from tribe to tribe. Languages, economies, ecosystems, religious practices, and mythologies are unique to their own tribes and regions. It may feel like more work to delve into one particular Native American history, but your story will be strengthened by you’re your focus.
Just as you wouldn't write an immigration story without deciding first whether your immigrant was an impoverished Jewish tailor from a Warsaw ghetto or a wealthy Christian university professor from Paris, so you should be specific about the type of Native American experience you are trying to portray.

2. Start with the tribe's own website, museum, historians, and authors. Nearly every tribe has a website. It's a valuable starting point. If a tribe has a casino, they may have a historical exhibit somewhere in the casino--also a good place to start.

3. Look for a cultural event specific to your character that is open to the public. For example Chief Lelooska's educational programs in Ariel Washington are a great introduction to the song, story and dance traditions of the Kwakiutl.

http://www.lelooska.org,

You might try an Indian rodeo or a powwow or treaty day celebration. Many cities have an urban Indian center with a variety of activities. Go. Absorb. Be friendly. Ask permission before you record anything. Most public events are fine for recording, but it's best to ask first.

4. Learn about a tribe's land both current and historical. Visit if possible. People are shaped by the land they love. For example, Chief Joseph of the Nez Pearce was hounded out of the Wallowas in northeastern Oregon. Why was that place so hard to for him to give up? Well, take a look. It is among the most beautiful moraine lakes in North America. The Wallowa mountains are the Alps of Oregon. Ask anyone who has hiked those hills or fished those cold clear waters. I've only visited four times in forty years and yet the place has a hold on my heart and imagination like few others.

5. Learn about their art and how it's made. Visit galleries that show the work. Support Native American artists by buying some of their art. Visit museums that have displays of their work. Talk to curator about the collection and find out if there is an off-exhibit archive. Some universities have good archives as well.

6. Be aware that some cultural information is not public and you will not find the answer; you'll have to adjust your story to accommodate that. For example, in working on Written in Stone, a story about a whaling family from the Makah and Quinault tribes, I knew I wouldn't be able to learn the rituals involved with preparing for a whale hunt. They are unique to each family and only shared with members of the whaling crew. So I chose a girl for my viewpoint character. She wouldn't know those rituals either, so I could convey the experience of waiting for the whalers to return authentically without delving into a topic off limits to the public.

But most important, be brave on the page. A “perfectly authentic” representation of a culture is not possible because every culture is made up of unique individuals who conform in some ways to their culture of origin and diverge in others. In the end what the child needs most is a character that feels like a real friend and at least some of the time looks a lot like him.

Here’s a blurb about WRITTEN IN STONE from Goodreads:

Rosanne Parry author of Heart of a Shepherd, shines a light on Native American tribes of the Pacific Northwest in the 1920s, a time of critical cultural upheaval.

Pearl has always dreamed of hunting whales, just like her father. Of taking to the sea in their eight-man canoe, standing at the prow with a harpoon, and waiting for a whale to lift its barnacle-speckled head as it offers its life for the life of the tribe. But now that can never be. Pearl's father was lost on the last hunt, and the whales hide from the great steam-powered ships carrying harpoon cannons, which harvest not one but dozens of whales from the ocean. With the whales gone, Pearl's people, the Makah, struggle to survive as Pearl searches for ways to preserve their stories and skills.

Rosanne has generally offered a copy of WRITTEN IN STONE for a giveaway. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment by midnight on July 6th. I’ll announce the winner on July 8th.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter.This is for US/Canada residents only.

I’m on a vacation and blog break after today until July 8th. I’m excited to go to my nephew’s wedding. I’ve known him since he was a baby. I’ll be blogging a little bit less over the summer. I know it gets quieter in the blog world during the summer as people spend more time with their families and go on vacations. I’m looking forward to slowing down a bit too and hopefully writing more.

But I have a lot of good things planned for the summer, starting with:
 
Freedom to Read Blog Hop on July 2nd

Interview on July 8th with debut author Melanie Crowder and ARC giveaway of PARCHED, a middle grade apocalyptic novel about a world with hardly any water with a touch of magical realism. I found the whole idea of such a world fascinating.


And don't forget our Tuesday Tips and Casey's Thursday agent spotlights.

Hope to see you on July 8th!

Tip Tuesday #165

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Hi Everyone! Natalie here today. I have a fantastic tip by freelance author Elizabeth Alton who writes for
Nimlok’s site. As you’ll see from her bio, she’s been published in many well-known publications. So here’s Elizabeth.

Best Practices For Authors at Conventions and Conferences

Nobody likes to tell you that if writing the book was hard, marketing will be three times harder. Yet in reality many authors find that the real work starts with getting the word out about their books. Maybe this is an issue of temperament: after all, writers tend to be solitary creatures that don’t mind working at the computer for hours. But connecting with fans, peers, and industry contacts often requires beating the pavement and making appearances at publishing events. Conventions and conferences are a great way to make the most of one or two days by meeting a bunch of people. Here’s how to network effectively with your publishing career in mind.

Consider speaking on a panel: If you’re attending a convention or conference, speaking on a panel is a great way to get in front of people without all the focus being on you. Usually you’ll join two or three other people to discuss a subject. It could relate to the craft of writing, or even a fan-based topic connected to your work. Conventions are notorious for topics like “The Mechanics of Steampunk Airships” or “How to Write a Convincing Fictional Parent.” Whatever your area of expertise, panels give you a focus to your discussions and make it easy to meet fan and colleagues before and after your talk.

Give a reading: If the idea of speaking off the cuff or doing a prepared talk is stressful, consider doing a reading from your most recent or most popular work. Often, conferences sponsor readings that allow authors to share between a few pages and a chapter. Many readings are followed up with casual Q&As that can be a great way to engage with fans. If someone sat through your reading, they’re likely to be a fan or interested in your topic of choice!

Participate in group signings: Many conferences that are open to fans sponsor a group signing. Authors may be asked to purchase a table or simply be willing to buy back books that don’t sell. Joining group signings is a great way to participate on a number of levels. It’s focused on fans, and you’ll get to meet people interested in your books or genre. It also helps the conference organizers; the more authors that sign at events, the more likely fans are to come. These statistics can be key for attracting big names and hitting profit margins. Support the conferences you take part in by joining signings – you’ll meet fans and other authors along the way.

Take advantage of editor/agent appointments: If you’re attending a conference that’s focused on the business or craft aspect of writing, there’s a good chance that editor or agent appointments are available. These short, one-on-one meetings allow you to chat with and pitch a connection of your choice. If a conference offers them, always take advantage of opportunity to make a valuable contact. Focus on being professional, sticking to the timeframe, and doing your homework to make sure whatever you’re pitching fits within their business interests.

Don’t overlook the bar: At big events, you can find yourself running from panel to panel, waiting in line for signings, and scheduling yourself to the max with editor and agent appointments. It’s important to take advantage of these openings, but a very effective way to meet people is when they’re relaxing. Take time to hit up the cafes or bars around the hotel, and have a drink. Frequently, you’ll have the opportunity to meet big time authors, industry contacts, and simply join in group conversations. It’s a low pressure way to meet people. Remember that people are in the bar are there to socialize and unwind. Don’t try to sell. Instead, focus on being friendly, funny and engaging. Those conversations then give you the perfect opportunity to connect via email or social media after the conference.

Attending conventions and conferences is one of the exciting aspects of an author’s career. If you’re not a big socializer or you just don’t know where to get started, remember that with a bit of planning you can make the most of these events to connect with fans, colleagues, and other valuable publishing connections. What tactics do you use to meet people at conferences? Let us know in the comments below.

About the Author:  Elizabeth Alton is a freelance business and technology writer for Nimlok’s site.  She covers trends related to small business, entrepreneurs, and the evolving digital landscape. Her work has been published by The Huffington Post, USA Today, The Daily Muse, Better Homes and Gardens, and PolicyMic. Connect with Elizabeth on Google+.