Tips for Catholic Writers
A Writer’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
Jen Norton captures the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary in a powerful way in Surrender All. If you do not already own a copy of this full-color devotional journal, please do yourself a favor and get one! Jen was kind enough to give me permission to use her artwork to illustrate the reflections here — if you would like to see more of her artwork, or purchase prints, be sure to check out her website at Jen Norton Art Studio. Last week I introduced you to Fr. Ubald and his “Rosary of My Life.” I asked you to think of the five “mysteries” that […]
A Writer’s Rosary: Fr. Ubald on “The Rosary of My Life”
I’ve been told (by those who have experienced both life-changing events) that there are some surprising similarities between writing a book and giving birth to a child: The process can often be painful, messy, and even a little embarrassing. But there is great joy in the end. Because of this, I like to offer a rosary on Fridays for my authors. In his book Forgiveness Makes You Free, Fr. Ubald Rugirangoga (RIP) writes about the “rosary of my life,” identifying five painful moments from his own life that he continually offered back to God (see pages 10-15). His early memories of his parents, both of […]
What to Do BEFORE You Query
Do you have a favorite author website? I’d love it if you would post a link here! As an editor, I’m always working with authors to help them develop their ministry platforms — and a good social media presence is really essential to their success. About the picture: Until you get to know them, editors can be scary people. But we really do want you to succeed! And for Catholic non-fiction authors writing their first book, the key to your success will be how close your proposed book “fits” with your existing ministry. I’ve learned that there tends to be a high correlation between strong […]
Happy Birthday, Brennan Manning! (Catholic Writer’s Almanac: April 27)
He was a complicated man who understood one simple truth: His Father in Heaven loved him — loves all of us — more than we could possibly imagine. Rest in peace, dear Ragamuffin.
Dealing with Writer’s Block
“The other day on Facebook, on of my friends (*ahem, Lisa Hendey*) suggested I recommend some tips for overcoming writer’s block. Being a Catholic editor and all, my first thought was to swipe the advice of St. Benedict: “Ora et labora” (pray and work). Then I thought I’d do what I SAID I’d be doing here, which is to open it up to the wisdom of other writers. With that in mind, I’d like to connect you with this article from “Fire Your Mentor: Top 15 Tips to Overcome Writer’s Block.” “Pressure, fear, stress, trauma, anxiety, the beginning or ending of a particular project….the list […]