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 3^rd, 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 10^th, 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/

A Mentor is ...

Mentoring is one subject that confuses me. Once I volunteered for a position with a writing group and was turned down because I had no "record" of mentoring other writers. The reason I have no "record" is because I don't advertise that I've mentored anyone. If I do something nice for someone, I'm not going to go around bragging about it. I feel it's up to the individual to say s/he's been mentored, but also, I haven't charged a fee. Almost all the mentoring I do is in my local area--Louisiana and Texas. 

For the past five years or so, I've taught a six week NF writing class. I've always taught the class in the fall and given students the option of staying in touch with me for help through the end of the year. Several stay in touch with me much longer because we become writer friends. I've never called it mentoring, though some of them have.  All of my students have sold their work with the exception of one or two. :/ I continue to send my students and other writers I know specific markets for their works. I continue to encourage them and offer help and critiques when they ask. I've never considered myself a mentor.

I believe mentoring is very misunderstood. An agent I know started a mentoring program by putting writers together in groups of three (a Paul, Timothy and Barnabas group) but we weren't at all compatible or dedicated to helping each other. I think mentoring has to just happen with people who connect with each other. Maybe it can be a business relationship where one is paying for services but I absolutely HATE that thought. The word mentor--the action of a mentor is too beautiful to be charging a fee. Needless to say, I've never had a mentor; but I have (and have had) very dear friends and critique partners who give me wonderful tips, advice and inside publishing information.

So I'll be the first to admit, I come to the word MENTOR a little fuzzy. Straighten me out. What's your definition of a mentor? Is mentor the same as a writing coach? Have you ever had either one? Did you pay? Would you like to have one or the other? Would you pay? What would the "perfect mentor" be like?

 

 

Looking forward to your comments.

P.S. FYI--I take after my dad who worked hard and never wanted to charge for anything! :)