
Recent Articles

On the Need to Produce Perfect Art
Internal editors like to hit where it hurts. But we don’t have to stand for it. We don’t have to let them.

Taking Time Off From Work Makes Us Better Workers
A few weeks ago I took a Sabbath rest from my writing. I do this every seven weeks to give my brain and fingers and stories a rest, so I can come back fresh and ready, and I can protect against burnout. Normally I use those “working” hours to learn something new or...

No Season Will Last Forever
This is a really difficult season in my life. I have six kids 8 and younger (exact ages; 8, 6, 5, 3 (times two) and 7 months). That means a large portion of my time just goes toward the daily needs of my children—pouring milk, helping pack lunches, reminding them to...

What rejection really means in the life of a writer
I have a full manuscript out with a couple of agents. I’ve been waiting two months to hear from them, whether or not they want the manuscript or will pass so I can try submitting to someone else. I’m getting impatient. Every day I check some of the agents I follow on Twitter to see […]

The pros and cons of self-publishing vs. traditional publishing
Is it better to self-publish or traditionally publish? Well, the answer is both. But it depends on the project. Here’s a guide for the pros and cons of publishing, as far as what I know today. 1. The book release. In traditional publishing, someone else takes care of...

The truth about balance in writing and parenting
Who can resist a face like this? Every Tuesday, on my to-do list, I have a 30-minute block that says, “Fold laundry.” This is valuable work time I’m spending separating laundry so my kids can put their piles away. Every single week I have to do it, because when you...

Should I self-publish or publish traditionally?
It’s incredibly easy to publish our books now. But should we self-publish right away or hold out for a traditional publishing deal?
Write a GREAT Book Even When Your Time is Limited
