The lovely Adele Parks has kindly given us her top 5 writing tips for people wanting to write a novel of their own. Cheers Adele!
1. Read. Novels, articles, newspapers anything you can get your hands on. If you are not familiar (in fact in love) with the written word, you’ll never be a decent writer.
2. Write. Seriously, it astonishes me how many people tell me they want to be a writer but then confess they never write anything more elaborate than a shopping list. Write everyday even if it’s only for 20 minutes. Discipline is key.
3. Develop a thick skin, you’ll almost certainly get a few knock backs along the way. Pick yourself up brush yourself down and start all over again. Talent will break through.
4. Consider going on a course/join an online support group. I did a degree in English Literature and Language, I’m not suggesting you have to do the same but a weekend creative writing course may help with understanding the tools of the trade such as structure, plot and characterisation. You’ll also meet other would be writers and they can offer support.
5. Listen. Be inspired by everything that is going on around you.
