While there are no hard and fast rules about word count for children’s books or any genre, it is helpful to know what is generally expected. I have found the website DOGObooks to be the most useful place to check the word count of popular books for kids. The word count range for each age…
On Writing
A collection of lessons, tools, and techniques on writing.
Which is correct: Okay, OK, or O.K.?
I did some research on the proper use of the word “OK” because I always doubt whether I am writing it the correct way. Is “okay” acceptable? Does “OK” need periods (as in, O.K.)? I found two helpful articles on the subject: OK vs. Okay (Grammarly) OK vs. okay (Grammarist) It turns out that all…
The Three Phrases that Inspire Science Fiction
In his introduction to the sixtieth anniversary edition of Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, Neil Gaiman lists three phrases that inspire works of science fiction/speculative fiction: What if . . . ? If only . . . If this goes on . . . Fahrenheit 451 is a “If this goes on . . .” story…
Immerse Yourself in Your Genre
Many successful writers offer the same and simple advice to new writers: read a lot and write a lot. It isn’t just the act of reading that is important though. To make that reading time as effective as possible, you need to read and reflect on what authors are doing well. This will help you…
Which is correct: Best Seller, Bestseller, or Best-seller?
Once your book sells very well, what do you call it: best seller, bestseller, or best-seller? As is the case with so many things in the English language, multiple versions are acceptable. Look, for example, at the names for the following lists: The New York Times Best Sellers Wall Street Journal Best Sellers Barnes &…
