Ask the Author: Jan Elder
Answered Questions (6)
Jan Elder
I love getting together with other writers to bounce around ideas. And since I write contemporary novels, people watching garners an amazing amount of "what if" scenarios. What is that person thinking? Why is that woman so sad? What would it be like to do that kind of job? In the book I just finished, I got the idea of a robbery in a jewelry store because a similar event happened last year in my town, a scant two miles from my house. Real life is the best inspiration.
Jan Elder
Every year, Pelican Book Group publishes Christmas novellas for their Christmas Extravaganza. I just finished a book called "A Semi-Precious Christmas" and I'm hoping they decide to accept it for their 2015 holiday season.
Jan Elder
I'm an introvert and a homebody. When I write, I sit cross-legged on my living room couch with my laptop in my lap, a cup of hot tea on the coffee table, and a warm cat on either side of me. On a typical night, my dear husband is close by lounging in his easy chair watching Maryland Terps Basketball. When I need a little help with word choice, grammar, or male dialogue, he's my go to guy. How much better can it get?
Jan Elder
When I get stuck on a plot point, I brainstorm with my local writers group. Listening to ideas flying around gets my creative juices flowing. I've also found that it's good to stop writing in the middle of a chapter and sometimes even in the middle of a sentence. That way my subconscious works all night on how to finish the thought. Some of my best ideas are formed in the dark of night.
Jan Elder
Find a good writers group that is both encouraging and honest. Your mother can tell you you're already a wonderful writer. You want your writers group to challenge you and help you stretch and grow. Conferences are also a great way to learn an amazing amount about the craft in a short period of time. I would highly recommend the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference. Also think about joining a group such as the national organization, American Christian Fiction Writers. They have been a tremendous inspiration to me in many ways and I give back by serving as the Maryland Regional Coordinator.
Jan Elder
My single ( and slightly quirky) brother has been a missionary in the Philippines for 30 years. He has always said he's too busy to date and wouldn't it be nice if he could just send out a marriage application? It would save a lot of time and he could choose the best applicant before he had to meet anyone. And thus. the idea was planted.
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