writing tips – Jean's Writing

Want to get excited about publishing?

Published on February 20, 2020February 20, 2020 by Jean M. Cogdell4 Comments

Ready to self-publish that best selling novel?

Want to get it right?

Then you might want a few good tips on what to do and not do in this post by Christian Galacar.

What I’ve Learned About Self-Publishing

He takes you from Scrivener to avoiding stigma attached to self-publishing and finding a good editor. Terrific links and sources that will aid you on your journey of turning that manuscript into a successful book.

Take a few minutes and read his post.

Christian Galacar

A compelling, strange and story with well-developed characters, a believable storyline and plenty of twists and turns making for a quick read. Check out Christian Galacar’s debut novel…

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How to use visual inspiration to tell a story

Published on November 18, 2019 by Jean M. CogdellLeave a comment

I’ve made electronic visual boards, but now I’m thinking maybe I need to take it a step further by bringing my board from the computer to my wall.

Oprah often talks of using a Vision Board to reach your life goals.

So how about using a Vision Board for the book you’re writing? A board for your Muse? A board for your character?

Find pictures from magazines, newspapers, paint color samples, images from Google or Pinterest. Use a cork board, poster board, whiteboard, or chalkboard. Or just tape pictures and notes on the wall above your desk. It can be simple or busy. No rules here.

I love the tips in this article by Jill Hedgecock.

Writing Tips: Using Visual Inspiration For Your Stories

Who knows a vision board may be just what you need to push on to the end.

Vision Boards for Authors

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How to make a book trailer

Published on September 23, 2019 by Jean M. Cogdell3 Comments

You don’t need a fancy program either.

Sometimes we forget about the good ole, tried and true programs to achieve a new and dazzling effect.

PowerPoint to the rescue!

D. Wallace Peach has posted a step-by-step process by which you can make a professional book trailer. Click on her link and see how easy it can be to make a trailer for your book.

MAKE A BOOK TRAILER WITH POWERPOINT

Give it a shot and then share with us your end product. Would love to see what you come up with.

Not sure about using PowerPoint? Check out these Top Tips and Tricks.

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Yes you can complete a children’s book

Published on June 24, 2019June 22, 2019 by Jean M. Cogdell19 Comments

My fourth children’s picture book to the editor so thought I’d share with you a bit about my process.

Writing a children’s picture book isn’t easy, but it doesn’t need to be daunting.

As with all stories, it begins with an idea.

Here is how my new idea began. A friend’s grandson gave me the spark of an idea when she shared his reaction to A Reluctant Little Prince. Apparently, he was fascinated with the firefighter page.

A nugget of an idea began to form in the back of my mind. As the days and weeks passed, I played with several versions of what to do with my flickering flame.