Remember National Novel Writing Month

 Some of my blog readers might remember when, back in October of 2012, I created an unofficial challenge for myself to write a novel in a month.  My goal was 25,000 words for middle grade fiction.  Here’s the first link in a series of month-long posts from 2012: My version of Na No Wri Mo

Well, as a novel update:  I just finished the fourth edit yesterday!  Ya-Hooooo!!!!! I would say that finally the story holds together with an arc, and a intro-middle-conclusion.  There are various threads, or sub-plots.    There are hints of another book to follow (which I have lots of notes and plot ideas).  I’ve sprinkled in some magical realism. There’s adventure and suspense.  There is a story within a story.

And, I am attending a conference on Saturday, to which, I have submitted ten pages for critique.  I’ve submitted art for critique. First Page. Contest.  There will be agents, editors, art director and other authors as guest speakers.

Committing to the conference, put me into high gear to finish and I have been writing these past three months or longer, for at least four hours a day, six days a week.  It is true, you need to stay connected to your story.  Live with your characters.  See your setting.  Hear their voices.  And, it is true, the more your write the easier it gets.

I’ve begun Edit 5.  This involves reading the complete manuscript as a whole, adding  what is missing, subtracting what is out of place.  I may need to clarify the conflict earlier in the novel.   I’ll consider word choice, look for grammar mistakes. (I never know how to properly use italics.)  Anyway, there is still work to do.

Stay tuned.  Happy writing.  LR