New Writers Comin’ Up - July 4, 2014 by Alice Frances

 New Writers Comin’ Up - July 4, 2014 by Alice Frances

 It’s a tough for a new or new-ish writer. He or she must keep going against all the odds in the hopes of finding a publisher. The writer faces the possibility that he or she may never get published, but in today’s marketplace, getting published is not the issue. Many writers choose to self-publish (and I’ll be putting an article up soon on that topic), others go with small press or start up publishing houses. If you have a good story to tell you will always find readers. Okay, it may be tough getting the word around, but with dedication and effort you’ll find your niche. Tenacity is the name of the game folks. Remember, it’s easy to get lost in your own little world, writing away and expressing your thoughts yet forgetting to share those thoughts. I have had marvellous material sent from writers who then disappear into the ether, not following up on their initial enquiry, and that’s a real shame. So do keep the flow of communications going. It’s important to email the potential editor or agent with a gentle nudge or query if you haven’t heard back. Also, keep sending your work around to magazines, publishers, especially small press publishers starting out like you. From tiny acorns and all. Above all, if someone shows interest don’t abandon that interest. Never let the ball drop. Polonius’ advice to Laertes; Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried, Grapple them to thy soul with hoops of steel In the meantime, submissions have been pouring in. We have some really interesting new writers on board.

 One of these is a truly tenacious and talented writer called Diane Van Der Westhuizen from South Africa. Diane is a hard working girl, if she’s says she’s sending you work, she’s sending you work! Diane is passionate about conservation and animal welfare and this passion is reflected in her work, which is mighty entertaining by the way. She is able to take the plight of a single bird and turn it into a joyful narrative. Diane’s new book about Nelson the seagull is around half-way through. Diane works at a tremendous pace, she tells me that she fuels up on coffee and cigarettes and keeps going through the night. That’s dedication! (By the way, I’m not promoting cigarettes but each to their own!) So, well done Diane, keep those chapters coming girl.

New Writers Comin’ Up - July 4, 2014 by Alice Frances


from - http://newlondonwriters.com/2014/07/04/new-writers-comin-up/