Friday, May 31, 2013

Be My Guest


I used to blog every day. And during April, I always participate in the A to Z Challenge—blogging every day. For some reason, I’ve become lazy, (busy?) and have to force myself to blog. This might be the perfect time to bring guest bloggers onto the scene so here’s the deal: I’ve started a new blog called Be A Real Writer. I realize that doesn’t make much sense but hang with me here; keep reading.
I have a passion for writers. I love them—one and all. I especially like learning how writers write, and that’s what Be A Real Writer is all about.

Be A Real Writer isn't just about blogging or promoting your books; it's about teaching and mentoring others—and promoting YOU. I read recently that we should be promoting our name—not just a title. So, let’s keep that in mind.
When I read a book anymore, I don’t read for the enjoyment. I think I lost that ability when I became a writer. It’s a rare book that makes me forget to study it, or wonder how the author went about pulling it together, how he hid clues so well that I couldn’t figure out whodunit. When I read a short story or poem—I’m curious to know where your idea came from, how many times you rewrote it or how much you concentrated on word choice or symbolism, and if you may have used the three act structure to help you lay it out.

So, how you plot, research, manage your time, construct a short story or poem, overcome procrastination, promote, plan a career, or find a publisher or agent is valuable information—to all of us. Anything that helps you Be A Real Writer will help others. Interested in submitting to me?
Please keep your submissions no longer than 500 words. Make certain your submissions are error free. I won't post without proofing first and will do light editing if I think your submission needs it. Pictures are welcome if you have rights to them. I especially want a pic of you and your title(s). Always include your bio with urls for your blog, website and where readers can purchase your books. At this time, posts will be made Monday, Wednesday and Friday. And until I gain more followers on the Be A Real Writer blog site, your post will be used on both blogs. Fair? Please: No erotica and no profanity.

On Monday, June 3rd, I will introduce you to my first guest blogger: L. Diane Wolf . We'll learn how to put together a nonfiction book.

On Monday, June 10th, you’ll meet Jo Huddleston who will tell us how her Caney Creek series came to be.
As I write this, all other dates are open, so let me hear from you. (And pray I stay organized! I'm a little nervous about this undertaking.)

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email me: jessyferguson (at) gmail (dot) com.

Last, please follow my blogs:
http://jessyferguson.blogspot.com
http://realwriter.blogspot.com/

12 comments:

Angie said...

I totally understand the forcing myself to blog thing. Thinking of content is always the hardest part. Sometimes I go out on an excursion, simply to have something to write about. Good luck with your new blog!!

Charles Gramlich said...

Sounds like a great idea. I don't know how the time gets away. I intend to blog more frequently and just can't seem to get to the posts. At least I have the excuse of doing some good writing this summer. :)

Gloria Alden said...

It sounds like a good idea. I blog now every Thursday on Writers Who Kill, but I might be interested in doing a guest blog in the future. I'm also blogging one a month on the new guppyanthology blog. I wrote down your email address and if I have time to write something, I'll send it to you. With the extensive gardens I have, I'm under pressure right now.

Jessica Ferguson said...

Angie - thanks!

Charles - hope you'll submit something.

Gloria - thanks. Hope you can find the time.

Julia Mozingo said...

Jess,

Great idea. I will be following. Like Angie mentioned, I feel content challenged. I'm always making lists of possible topics, but haven't yet followed through.

Jessica Ferguson said...

Hi Julie - anytime. There's always a spot for you.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

All set for Monday, Jess!

Jessica Ferguson said...

Julia, sorry, just realized I called you Julie. You have a great blog, by the way. Hard to believe YOU feel content challenged. :)

Jessica Ferguson said...

Me too! Diane. Thanks for being my first. :)

Unknown said...

This is a lovely idea! I can't wait to read what your guest bloggers have to say! And I know what you mean by the inability to read for pleasure. It's hard to turn off critic mode. :P

Joanne Guidoccio said...

Jess, Great idea! I've bookmarked this site and look forward to reading the posts. My debut novel will be out in the fall. As soon as I get my cover, I'll sit down and write a post for your new blog. :)

Jessica Ferguson said...

Lexa, thanks for visiting. I always love for you to come see me. :)

Joanne, congrats on your debut novel. Don't forget me!