Ask the Author: Kimi Cunningham Grant

“Transom Shultz disappears over Memorial Day Weekend in FALLEN MOUNTAINS, so... I'll be answering questions about the book the week of May 27th. Ask away!” Kimi Cunningham Grant

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Good morning Kimi. Thank you so much for answering my question. I greatly appreciate it. I want to be a writer, particularly a novelist like you. Like Jesmyn Ward. So, I guess my question is how do I become a novelist like you? How do I improve my ability to tell a story?
Kimi Cunningham Grant Hi Michael! I really believe in the power of reading books that you admire, studying those books, and learning from them. You can also join a writer's group, where you'll (hopefully) get meaningful feedback and support. As you may know, I made the transition from writing nonfiction to fiction, and I found Benjamin Percy's THRILL ME to be extremely useful. Best wishes!
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Kimi Cunningham Grant Great question! I think reading is a nice place to start. Read widely, and, if you can, voraciously. As you read, think about what it is that you like--what draws you to a particular piece or style. Study it. Learn from it.

Having said this, I'll add that my favorite writers don't necessarily use good grammar. I assume they know their grammar; they just choose not to use it because their characters wouldn't. (Mine don't, either.)

If you're looking to improve grammar, the classic Elements of Style is a good reference. I'm interested in checking out the new Dreyer's English. And the OWL at Purdue is a nice, free online resource for things like grammar and punctuation.

Thanks for your question. Best wishes!
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How do you deal with writer’s block?
Kimi Cunningham Grant For me, the best way to deal with writer's block is to keep on reading and writing. I try hard to be writing something--large or small--most of the time. I do take days and even weeks off here and there, but I've found that the best way to keep my momentum going is to... well, keep going!
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