Ask the Author: John Briggs
Answered Questions (5)
John Briggs
Sorry about that, but rest assured -- it's been added now, with a five-star rating!
John Briggs
Just write. And then write some more. And then when your fingers get tired and your eyes get blurry, write some more. Eventually you'll get good at it, and you'll find new ways to express yourself, your ideas, and your characters. Also, write for yourself. Don't worry about the money. Let agents and editors do that. And finally, be careful what criticism you accept. There will be one or two writers in your critique group who can help you, but that doesn't mean you have to listen to everything they say. Be careful, be choosy, and carefully consider what they are suggesting. Make sure it works, and then rewrite accordingly. Remember, you are the final arbiter of what goes on the page. It has to work for you first and foremost or it will never sound authentic.
John Briggs
The sheer act of creating something new, hopefully in a way it's never been said or explained before. You get to put your ideas or thoughts out there and see who connects with them. Writing is a silent dialogue between author and reader in which one hopes he or she understands the other. I can't paint or sculpt or sing, so this is my art, and I can't imagine doing anything else. For me, the best part about being a writer is getting to do something I love just about every day. I get to spend my free time and my work time writing!
John Briggs
Well, I didn't have to work hard for that one! I grew up on stories of Mary Dyer thanks to my great-grandmother, who admired her deeply. When I found out there were no children's books about this amazing civil rights hero, I decided it was time to write one. She's someone people should know more about, and I think kids will be inspired by her story and her courage.
John Briggs
I'm currently working on my next two middle-grade biographies for Atombank Books called "Judy Garland: Little Woman, Big Talent" and "Pete Seeger, the People's Singer." The first will be released on November 3rd and the second sometime next March. I am also developing a book on editing for Ari Publishing, as well as submitting a middle-grade historical fantasy to agents and publishers.
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