Writing Tips from Clare Vanderpool

Writing Tips from Clare Vanderpool

In April, I got the pleasure of hearing Clare Vanderpool speak. I am always interested in hearing  writing tips from authors, and she delivered a great presentation on this subject. 

In my own words, here are some of the things she covered in her presentation. 

Background

Clare Vanderpool is from Kansas. She always loved to write, but was never formally trained. She was 46 when her first book was published. She went on to win 2001 Newbery Award and she was also

2014 Printz Award Winner

To become a writer you need to be….

Optimistic

Clare was rejected 76 times by publishers. It is okay to fail. Sometimes that is part of the fun, but always be optimistic and persevere.

Hard Working

Set aside time to write everyday. This will help you to master your craft.

Playful

Have fun, travel, pay attention to detail. These things will inspire you & it may find its way into your book.  

A Reader

In order to master the craft of writing, you need to study it. Read as much as you possibly can and pay attention to other writer’s writing styles.

Be Humble

Be modest and open to new ideas.

Be Apart of a Group

Writing is a solitary activity. You need other people. It is important to join a writing organization or club. It is also important to study writing. Go to writing workshops and take writing classes.

When Writing…

Let it Go

Try not to think too hard about character conflict, the climax of the story, or the story itself.  Instead, let your character take on the story. If you do this, these things will naturally fall into place. More importantly, you can only do this by doing it.

Remember to practice, practice, practice!

Know there is Power in a Story

Connect to your story and create a journey for readers to go on.

Pay Attention

Listen to other’s stories and visit other places.  Sometimes these places and  truth stories can even stranger than fiction. Let that inspire you.

Have Perspective

The way you see your story is different from how readers will see it. Pull back and try to see what you are about as a writer.

Aren't these great?! I hope to someday turn these writing tips into a successful writing program, but I haven't found the right time or formatting for it.
Has anyone put on a successful tween writing program?

-Pamela