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Let’s Get Ready to Write!

National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is only days away.  Are you ready?  Here are a few tips to help you prepare to write 50,000 words by the end of the month:

      1.  Write a synopsis. Take a few minutes to jot down the main points of your novel before NaNoWriMo kicks off.  Not quite ready to flesh it out?  That’s okay!  Start by jotting down some plot or character details and maybe they will find their way into your writing.
      2. Make a playlist. Seasoned NaNoWriMo winners suggest making an inspirational playlist that gets your writing juices flowing.  Find those jams that make you feel great and get your playlist ready.
      3. Create a writing space. Having a designated space to write can make it easier and more comfortable for daily writing.  You don’t need a lot of space, just a cozy corner or a spot at the dining room table.  Find a place where you can set up to get those daily words on paper.
      4.  Schedule time to write. One of the hardest parts of NaNoWriMo is finding time to write your daily word average.  If you miss several days, it can feel intimidating to get back on track.  Schedule time each day to sit down and write and stick to it.  The words will add up before you know it!
      5. Find your support network.  Writing 50,000 words in a month takes time and dedication.  Find a support network to keep you moving towards your goal.  There are several options for creating a supportive writing community.  NaNoWriMo offers weekly write-ins for regional groups all over the US.  Another great option for WNBA-LA members is Incite to Write, a new facebook  group to help keep you motivated and writing and take your writing all the way  Not a member, don’t miss out on all the fun.  Join Today!
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Strong Female Leads

Looking to grab the attention of literary agents with your work?  One way to elevate your writing from the rest of the competition is to develop a strong female lead, without falling victim to clichés.

Here are a few quick tips to help create a real, strong female lead:

        1.  Don’t forget that strong does NOT mean perfect.  Even the strongest of all characters have flaws.  No one is perfect, so make sure to develop some personal flaws in your leading lady.
        2.  Character Arcs are important! Develop your character as you do your story.  If you start her off with no room to grow, there is no room to go!
        3.  Be Real. A strong female lead does not mean physical perfection.  Make her realistic so readers are able to connect and believe in her strength.  A physique like Wonder Woman does not equal a strong female lead.
        4.  Avoid Stereotyping. To avoid the cliché trap, identify potential female stereotypes in your writing.  If not, your character will lose her believability.
        5. Give her a reason. What made your character so strong?  How did she overcome her fears to grow into the strong lead in your story?  What keeps her strong?
        6.  Strong does not mean invincible.  A realistic lead will have weaknesses and moments of insecurity and fear.  How she overcomes these barriers helps develop her true strength and character.
        7.  Read novels with strong female characters.   What makes them real?  How do different authors develop their strong female leads into characters that the reader is invested in?  How can you get your readers invested in the success of your own character?
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Do You Have Your Tickets Yet?

The 34th Annual Judy Lopez Award for Children’s Literature Reception and Afternoon Tea is just around the corner on September 15th.  If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, there is still time!

Join the Women’s National Book Association/ Los Angeles Chapter at the Culver Hotel.  Reception and Book Sales start at 1:00 P.M. and the Tea and Program will run from 2:00-4:00 P.M.

This year’s Tea is being held in memory of Margaret Flanders (1940-2019).

Mark your calendar and secure your tickets today: Click Here for More Information.