Guest Book Review: "Writing Irresistible Kidlit"
I know my writer/readers are interested in all kinds of writing. That's why I'm honored to publish this guest book review from writer and former student, Ann Schwarz. Here, Ann reviews Mary Kole's 2012 how-to on children's literature: "Writing Irresistible Kidlit."
Thanks, Ann!
My Annual "Hang In There, Mommas" Blog Post
Every year about this time, we (writer/mamas with children of a certain age) tend to chat about the looming months of summer vacation ahead of us. Those of us who have slogged through the toddler years to finally come out on the other side of the tunnel where our home offices are suddenly, achingly quiet for hours a day are often slammed back into reality by the summer recess. The June conversations revolve around varied systems of cobbled-together camps, childcare, neighborhood sitters or outright begging.
As I write this, I'm six hours into my personal juggling act as the mother of a 10 & 13-year old (boy/girl), and I must say (as you often hear from me)- it does get so much easier through the years! I'm fortunate that my older child is a calm, responsible girl who easily takes the lead when it comes to finding things to keep herself busy, and that my 10-year-old son is fairly happy to tag along with her.
In addition, those of you who follow me on Instagram or Pinterest may recall that we've been remodeling my home office after my cousin moved back to Mexico. This space is upstairs, and the distance from the noise and clamor of the first floor has also been helpful. I can hear my kids (and the neighbor kids) stomping in and out of my house, but I don't need to interact with them or become involved in the group's interactions as I did when my office was in the thick of it all. Also, I think my kids may be a bit lazy- they must decide to climb the stairs and come and get me if they need something. They seem to be thinking twice.
So, it's going smoothly so far. These ages are golden. What about you? How are you holding up? And for those with younger children, do you find any differences in the change to summer at all?
Yes, I Do Sometimes Hire Freelance Writers. No Don't Send Me Your Resume!
Hi all, definitely get this question constantly.
Yes, I do sometimes hire teams of freelance writers for large volume work (usually from publishers or curriculum development companies). It's not often, as most of my clients have smaller, more manageable projects that I contract with myself and attend to personally. However, I do look for subcontractors about 2-3 times per year.
No, don't send me your resume! I simply don't have time to read it until I'm actually hiring for a job. At that time, I match up my team's skills and topic interest areas with those of my client. Not before!
So what's the best way to get on my "list"? That's easy. When I'm in need of writers, editors or translators, I put it out to my followers on Twitter, Google Plus and Facebook. At that time, I accept resumes from interested writers. Not before! So...
What is the Advantage of Becoming an LLC, Exactly?
One last reader question for the day, folks. Enjoy! Why Should I Establish My Writing as an LLC?
New FAQ: How Do I Estimate My Quarterly Taxes?
A new freelance writer wants to make sure to start off on the right foot: How do I estimate my quarterly taxes?
New Q & A: Getting Started Freelance Writing
I've added a new Q & A interview I did with a professional writing student some months back. She finally graduated this month, and I wish her luck! Here is the interview: How to Get Started in Freelance Writing.
Short List of the Pros and Cons of Freelance Work
"Pros and Cons Freelance Work"
Your Turn: Share your list of pros and cons, freelancers! Leave your feedback in the comments below, or connect with me here:
Yes, You Can Write Creatively, Freelancer!
Yes- it is indeed possible to write creatively, and still make a living as a freelance writer. We've talked about this at length here on the blog, and this entire section deals with creative freelance writing.
For those who prefer more personal coaching and support, I'm teaching a virtual class through WOW- Women on Writing starting on June 17. Space is limited! Sign up here.
Of All the Questions- "The Business Side of Freelance Writing"
Do you know what freelance writers want/need? I do--because you're not shy about sending me oodles of questions. Freelance writers need help on the BUSINESS side of freelance writing. You need to know how to pay taxes (LESS taxes), collect on invoices, and whether or not to form a company (and HOW, btw?). That's why I created the class "The Business Side of Freelance Writing" for WOW- Women on Writing.
This class starts THIS MONDAY (May 20) and has a limit of ten students. Interested? Register here: The Business Side of Freelance Writing.
(Don't wait too long- I'm running a book review class now in the same manner, and had a slew of sign ups at the last minute- we almost canceled though! If you're considering the class but can't purchase just yet, consider sending me an email at Allena {at} GardenWallPublications {dot} com just to give me a heads up!)
Are You a Freelance Journalist? Here's a Great Freebie!
LinkedIn for Journalists offers one year of FREE upgrade to the Premium LinkedIn account type for any journalist who participates in a virtual/call-in seminar about LinkedIn. The upgraded account is QUITE convenient- it allows you to see a lot more and different information and to send "InMail" (emails) to other members whose email you may not have.
Interested? Here is the link to the journalists group. The seminar times will be posted there when the next one is set up.