Now what?

Great discussion this week by our panelists. Since we moved, some may not have found us. Please help us out by telling people where we are. This Q&A will be in the archives and easy to find since it's the first discussion of 2007.

So now that we've heard from the experts, what do we do with this information? You only really learn something if you apply it, you know. I've put together a few resources for you.

If you're putting together a book proposal, here are a few books that you might want to check out:

Book Proposals That Sell by W. Terry Whalin
Here is Jeanne Zornes's review on Amazon:
Before you even think about writing a book, you need to read Terry's book. Finally, in helpful detail, we have an insider explaining what goes on in those mysterious caverns called publishing offices. Terry teaches you how to write a book that will pass the scrutiny of those guarding the publishing house gates and eventually reach the golden status of "published." He introduces his book with some insight into non-fiction trends in publishing, then launches into the twenty-one "secrets" that comprise a winning book proposal. From sharpening a book's topic and identifying an audience, to defining marketing plans and putting together a winning proposal package, he gives helpful, inspiring advice. His thorough treatment offers a comprehensive education in the business side of book writing that you'd never get from a conference or course. It's a paperback mentor you can't pass by.

Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maas
Steven James left this review on Amazon:
As the author of more than 20 books I'm always on the lookout for practical writing guides that will help me improve my craft and expand my horizons without simply repeating the same old advice. In this book, literary agent Donald Maass offers insider's advice on taking your fiction to the next level by outlining what makes a bestselling novel work. I found the ideas invigorating, practical, and very down-to-earth. Packed with checklists and detailed how-to-advice, this is a book I would recommend for all fiction writers. While many experienced writers will be familiar with some of the material on plotting and characterization, many of the ideas on what make a novel break out from the pack were unique to this book. I found the suggestions helpful in a general sense and am not applying many of the specific ideas as I work on my current project, a suspense thriller due for release in the fall of 2007. While this book might be most helpful for seasoned writers, I would recommend it for all authors who are looking for ways to hone their technique and improve their writing.

Stein on Writing: A Master Editor of Some of the Most Successful Writers of Our Century Shares His Craft Techniques and Strategies
by Sol Stein
Michelle R. Garcia left this Amazon review:
I bought this book a few months ago at the advice of a fellow journalist. He told me that this book is half fiction, half non-fiction but the advice is helpful. Without a doubt, the words of wisdom that Stein has to offer are priceless. However, when I thought about writing a novel, this is where I turned. From there I now have the basis for my story and will write it during National Novel Writing Month. Get the book, whether you're interested in non-fiction, fiction or both. Be prepared to be honest with yourself and have fun writing!

I have found that many literary agencies have excellent guides to writing proposals on their sites. So do some authors. Here are a few:

Brandilyn Collins
Randy Ingermanson
Chip MacGregor
Hartline Literary Agency
Terry Whalin

Helpful groups:
Fiction Factor
American Christian Fiction Writers
Historical Novel Society

Did I get them all? Of course not. Why don't you share your own resources? Tell us which books, authors, agencies, have given you the best information on publishing trends, book proposals, and more.

Next week Kaye Dacus and Amber Miller are in charge. See you then. Have a wonderful weekend!

Cindy
Author of Brigid of Ireland

Pictured: Cindy and Tricia Goyer. Chip MacGregor picked Tricia as a mentor for me a few years ago. This picture was taken this past July at the International Christian Retail Show in Denver (the first time we met in person!)