Category Archives: Genre Specifics
Fictionary, Part 2: What Genre Do I Write? by Lori Ann Palma
When you start working on a story idea, categorizing it into a specific genre isn’t typically on your list of things to do. But when you go to craft a query letter, you’ll definitely need to place your work into … Continue reading
Fictionary, Part 1: What Genre Do I Write? by Lori Ann Palma
This month’s EasternPennPoints theme is all about submissions, and if you’re getting ready to query your novel, then you’ll need to know where your book fits into the YA or MG market. First off, YA and MG are categories (the … Continue reading
WORLD BUILDING IN FANTASY FICTION, by Kit Grindstaff
Any of us can probably name a list of literary worlds, fantasy or not, that hooked us and wouldn’t let go. For me, that list includes Hogwarts, Lyra’s England in The Golden Compass, the underground prisons and above-world Tudor-cum-technological world … Continue reading
Developing Your Protagonist for YA Fiction, by Lori Ann Palma
In the YA section of your bookstore or online haven, you’ll find fiction featuring a wide expanse of characters. Sun summoner—check. British secret agent—check. Cyborg. Check. While the majority of today’s YA books feature a teenage protagonist, age is about … Continue reading
On Illustration Notes, By Liz Garton Scanlon
Here’s the thing about illustration notes: They are not illegal. They will not get you blackballed in the industry. They will not ensure that your story won’t sell. So what’s the problem? Why the general no-no vibe around authors peppering … Continue reading
Five Tips for Writing Realistic Dialogue in Young Adult Fiction, by Lori Ann Palma
Most writers will tell you that good fiction is all about the show, not about the tell. Dialogue is one of the most important “showing” tools in a writer’s toolbox, but when it comes to writing exciting and believable dialogue … Continue reading
Don’t Forget the Story in History, by Marcus Sedgwick
This morning, I am happy to welcome Marcus Sedgwick to Eastern Penn Points! I asked Marcus if he would share a few words about writing historical fiction, and he kindly said yes. Marcus is the winner of many prizes, most … Continue reading