In this episode, Miranda and Bonnie dive into the value of books on writing craft, focusing on learning about the art of writing versus the act of writing itself. Your co-hosts reflect on their experiences with various craft books, exploring what separates the truly helpful ones from those that fall short. They emphasize the importance of concrete examples and actionable suggestions. The conversation also explores other ways to hone writing skills, including watching YouTube tutorials, reading editing and style books, consuming content in one's genre, and, of course, actually writing. Take a listen for insights into navigating the balance between learning about writing and putting pen to paper.

What are your favorite and least favorite writing craft books? Share with us on our socials!

Facebook: @writingheights, Instagram: @writingheights

Links:

Chicago Manual of Style, 18th edition

The Emotion Thesaurus

The Anatomy of Story

Story Genius

Donald J. Maas’s books on writing

Brandon Sanderson’s Creative Writing Lectures

Overly Sarcastic Productions

Join the Writing Heights community at writingheights.com

Sound engineering by Luke Fischer

Cover art by Maggie Walker

Debut author Kristin Owens shares tips and tricks from her journey as a first-time author. After a brief rundown on the differences between traditional and self-publishing, our hosts discuss the importance of knowing your own strengths and goals. For those with time and patience, the traditional publishing route offers professional support all along the way, from editing to securing audiobook deals. Regardless of publishing route, a debut author should consider building up a social media presence as early as possible, finding a support group of other debuting authors, and planning a book launch that fits their personality.

Check out Kristin’s debut novel, Elizabeth Sails, launched on October 8th, 2024!

Facebook: @writingheights, Instagram: @writingheights

Links:

The Debutante Ball

Rising Action Publishing

Join the Writing Heights community at writingheights.com

Sound engineering by Luke Fischer

Cover art by Maggie Walker

Amber Byers, founder of the Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest, joins Bonnie and Miranda to explore the themes of authenticity and joy in writing. Finding and maintaining your voice amidst external pressures and criticism can be difficult, particularly in the pursuit of writing. And yet, it is important to stay true to your vision while navigating feedback and the publishing process. The hosts and guest exchange insights on overcoming perfectionism, staying motivated, and finding inspiration through community and diverse creative inputs.

How do you find joy in writing? Share the love with us on our socials!

Facebook: @writingheights, Instagram: @writingheights

Links:

Writing Forge episodes referenced:

• Fairy Tale Foundations: The Power of Classic Stories in Any Genre
• The Community that Stays Together, Writes Together

Shut Up and Write

Join the Writing Heights community at writingheights.com

Sound engineering by Luke Fischer

Cover art by Maggie Walker