Is there a novel in you? Pull it out, word by word, 50 thousand of them, this November.
NaNoWriMo
November is National Novel Writing Month, aka Noveling Month, and most fondly known as NaNoWriMo. You will never find this much motivation again… until next year. NaNoWriMo has been inspiring writers to spit out their novels since 1999. https://twitter.com/NaNoWriMo/status/1037358516971831296 NaNoWriMo specifically motivates you to complete the first draft of your novel. Just get it out! You may edit your masterpiece once NaNoWriMo concludes.
Prepare Writing Strategy
During the month proceeding your NaNoWriMo project, you should plan a writing strategy. Consider the following tips:
- Create an outline for your novel
- Develop characters, in your head and on paper
- Diagram your novel’s twisty plot
- Do background research
- Tell people you will be laying low in November, and ask for their support (i.e., they should not disturb the Creative Process!)
- Download helpful software apps for your noveling
- Consider Google Docs, True Novelist, or Pencil — so you may write online, anytime
- Freeze cook-ahead meals for November!
NaMoWriMo has more practical, and whimsical, suggestions for the planning stage. Check out their preparation page, and the video below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=SrLy3dxg8Kc
Write
A grueling… 1,666 words a day… November 1st through November 30th. Conclude your NaNoWriMo writing marathon with celebration: champagne, chocolates, a party!
Edit
Spend all the edit-time you need to polish your new novel.
Publish
If you’re inclined to go public, pop your baby into the free Reedsy Book Editor to create a professionally typeset book. Publish an ebook.
Up for NaNoWriMo Challenge?
Who’s up for the 2018 NaNoWriMo challenge? Which of you have done NaNoWriMo in previous years? I am totally jazzed for this. After laboring on my 2018 Progressive Candidates list since January, it’s time for creative fun. Chester*, here I come! (*Chester is the adorable, scruffy, little, white dog who stars in The Chester Chronicles. He has been terribly ignored. Not anymore!)
Novel or Bust!
Progressive Graffiti 