Amanda M. Thrasher's Blog

There are many ways to get ideas for novels.1. Draw from personal experiences: Think about events or people in your own life that have made an impact on you. You can use these experiences as a starting point for your novel. I do this often while writing YA’s. I typically think of experiences my teens had and use those to mold ideas.2. Read: Reading books, articles, and news can help spark ideas for your own writing. Pay attention to what interests you and consider how you might develop those ideas into a novel. Jot down notes. It’s amazing how many times notes you’ve jotted down inspire ideas later on.3. Explore different genres: Consider exploring different genres and styles of writing to find inspiration. You might find that a particular genre or style resonates with you and sparks new ideas. I’ve written in a few genres. At this time, kids’ chapter books keep my creative juices flowing. I like YA but I worry about the times we live in. Saying the wrong thing, even through a character, can cause unintentional harm.4. Use writing prompts: Writing prompts can be a great way to jumpstart your creativity. There are many websites and books that offer writing prompts to help you generate ideas. In the past, I’ve written down random lists to challenge myself to create one-liners. It’s a great exercise and keeps your mind sharp.5. Brainstorm with others: Talking to friends, family, or fellow writers can help generate new ideas. Sometimes, discussing your ideas with others can lead to unexpected and exciting new directions for your writing. Fellow aspiring writers or authors have insight you might not have tapped into or developed. They can often expand on ideas you have and help with clarity.Remember, inspiration can come from anywhere, so stay open to new experiences and always carry a notebook.

The post Developing Novel Ideas appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

Basic marketing techniques:Some common marketing strategies used by businesses include:1. Content marketing: Creating and sharing valuable, relevant content to attract and engage a target audience.2. Social media marketing: Using social media platforms to connect with customers, build brand awareness, and drive website traffic.3. Email marketing: Sending targeted, personalized messages to a subscriber list to promote products, services, or events. ~ *This is a great use of direct sales links.*4. Influencer marketing: Collaborating with influential individuals or organizations to promote products or services to their followers.5. Search engine optimization (SEO): Optimizing website content to improve search engine rankings and increase organic traffic. ~ *Changes daily.*6. Paid advertising: Using paid channels such as Google Ads, social media ads, or display advertising to reach potential customers.7. Public relations: Managing communication and relationships with the media, customers, and the public to build a positive brand image.8. Event marketing: Hosting or sponsoring events to promote products or services and engage with customers in person.These are just a few examples, and businesses often use a combination of strategies to achieve their marketing goals.

The post Basic Marketing Techniques appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

1. Embrace curiosity: Stay curious and open-minded about the world around you. Ask questions, explore new ideas, and seek out diverse experiences that can inspire your creativity.2. Engage in new experiences: Break out of routines and try new activities, hobbies, and adventures. Exposure to different perspectives and environments can stimulate fresh ideas and ways of thinking.

3. Practice mindfulness and relaxation: Clearing your mind through meditation, mindfulness, or relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and mental clutter, creating space for new and innovative thoughts to emerge.

The post 3 TIPS FOR CREATIVITY appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

Reading to your kids is incredibly beneficial for their development and overall well-being. Here are some reasons why you should make it a regular practice:1. Language Development: Reading aloud exposes children to a wide range of vocabulary, sentence structures, and language patterns. This helps them develop strong language skills and increases their understanding of language.2. Cognitive Development: Reading books with engaging stories and colorful illustrations stimulates children’s imagination and critical thinking skills. It helps them make connections, solve problems, and understand complex concepts.3. Emotional Development: Books often deal with emotions and teach children how to identify and manage their feelings. Stories can also help children understand different perspectives and develop empathy towards others.4. Bonding Time: Reading together creates a special bonding experience between you and your child. It provides an opportunity for quality one-on-one time, fostering a sense of closeness and security.5. Academic Success: Children who are read to regularly tend to have better reading skills and perform better academically. They develop a love for books and learning, which sets them up for success in school and beyond.6. Improved Concentration: Reading books requires focus and attention, which helps children develop concentration skills. This can have a positive impact on their ability to concentrate on tasks and activities later in life.7. Enhanced Creativity: Reading stimulates children’s imagination and creativity. It exposes them to different worlds, characters, and ideas, encouraging them to think creatively and develop their own stories and ideas.8. Improved Communication Skills: Regular exposure to books and stories helps children develop strong communication skills. They learn how to express themselves effectively and articulate their thoughts and ideas.9. Better Sleep: Bedtime stories have a calming effect on children and can help establish a bedtime routine. It relaxes their mind and body, making it easier for them to fall asleep.10. Lifelong Love for Reading: Reading to your kids from an early age instills a love for books and reading that can last a lifetime. It sets the foundation for them to become lifelong readers and learners.In summary, reading to your kids is an invaluable activity that promotes their development, strengthens your bond, and instills a love for reading. It is a simple yet powerful way to invest in their future.

The post READING TO KIDS appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

Social media has evolved from being a simple platform for connecting with friends and sharing updates to a powerful tool for businesses and individuals to reach and engage with their target audience. Here are a few reasons why managing social media can be a full-time job:1. Constantly changing algorithms: Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter frequently update their algorithms, determining what users see. To ensure maximum visibility and engagement, social media managers must stay updated with these changes and adjust their strategies accordingly.2. Content creation: Creating high-quality, engaging content is crucial for success in social media. This involves designing graphics, writing captions, scheduling posts, and sometimes producing videos or podcasts. It can be time-consuming to create compelling content that resonates with the target audience consistently.3. Engagement and community management: Building and nurturing an engaged community on social media requires constant interaction with followers. Social media managers need to respond to comments, messages, and mentions and engage with other accounts to build relationships and foster a sense of community.4. Analytics and reporting: Monitoring and analyzing social media metrics is essential to measure the success of campaigns and strategies. Social media managers must track key performance indicators like reach, engagement, and conversions.5. Advertising and influencer partnerships: Many businesses use social media advertising to reach a wider audience and drive conversions. Managing ad campaigns, targeting the right audience, and optimizing budgets require time and effort. Additionally, collaborating with influencers and managing influencer partnerships can be time-consuming.6. Staying ahead of trends: Social media trends and best practices constantly evolve. Social media managers must research and implement new strategies, tools, and features that regularly emerge to stay relevant and, at the same time, practical.

Given the complexity and importance of social media for businesses and individuals, it often requires a dedicated and focused effort, making it a full-time job for many people. Most authors, not all, are doing their best just trying to keep their heads above water while navigating social media’s changes. Hang in there; you’re not alone.

The post Social Media Marketing Becomes appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

Writing a book blurb or synopsis can be a challenging task, but here are some steps to help you get started:1. Understand the purpose: A book blurb or synopsis is meant to provide a concise and engaging summary of your book’s main plot, characters, and themes. It should entice readers to want to know more and ultimately decide to read your book.2. Identify the key elements: Begin by identifying the main characters, the central conflict, and the overall theme or message of your book. These elements will form the foundation of your blurb or synopsis.3. Keep it concise: Remember that a blurb or synopsis is meant to be brief, so aim for a length of around 150-250 words. Focus on the most important aspects of your story and avoid unnecessary details or subplots.4. Start with a hook: Begin your blurb or synopsis with a compelling opening sentence or paragraph that grabs the reader’s attention and makes them curious about your book. This could be a thought-provoking question, an intriguing statement, or a brief introduction to the main character.5. Highlight the main plot: Provide a concise summary of the main plotline, including the central conflict, major events, and any twists or surprises. Focus on the key turning points and build suspense to keep the reader engaged.6. Introduce the main characters: Briefly introduce the main characters, highlighting their personalities, motivations, and how they contribute to the story. You can mention their relationships, conflicts, or any unique traits that make them memorable.7. Convey the tone and genre: Give readers a sense of the book’s tone and genre. Is it a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a thought-provoking literary work? Use descriptive language to evoke the atmosphere and emotions of your story.8. Avoid spoilers: Be careful not to give away major plot twists or reveal the ending. The goal is to create intrigue and leave readers wanting to discover more by reading the book.9. Edit and revise: Once you’ve written your blurb or synopsis, review it for clarity, coherence, and impact. Remove any unnecessary details or repetitive information, and ensure that the summary flows smoothly.10. Seek feedback: Share your blurb or synopsis with others, such as fellow writers or beta readers, to get their input. Their feedback can help you refine and improve your summary.Remember, the blurb or synopsis is a marketing tool, so aim to create a compelling and engaging summary that captures the essence of your book while leaving readers eager to dive into your story.

The post WRITING A BOOK BLURB OR SYNOPSIS appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

Developing your own writing style is a process that takes time and practice. Here are some steps you can take to develop your own unique style:1. Read widely: Expose yourself to a variety of writing styles and genres. Read books, articles, and blogs from different authors to understand how they use language and structure their writing.2. Write regularly: Practice is key to developing your writing style. Set aside dedicated time to write every day or as often as possible. The more you write, the more you will refine your voice and style.3. Experiment with different techniques: Try out different writing techniques, such as using metaphors, varying sentence lengths, or playing with different narrative perspectives. Experimenting will help you find what works best for you and what feels authentic.4. Reflect on your favorite authors: Think about the writers you admire and analyze what you enjoy about their style. Consider their use of language, tone, pacing, and character development. Reflecting on their work can help you identify elements you might want to incorporate into your own writing.5. Write from your own experiences: Draw inspiration from your own life experiences, emotions, and observations. Writing from a place of authenticity will help you develop a unique voice and perspective.6. Edit and revise: After you’ve written a piece, take the time to edit and revise it. This allows you to refine your writing style and make it more cohesive and polished.7. Seek feedback: Share your writing with others and ask for constructive feedback. Other people’s perspectives can help you identify areas for improvement and provide insight into your writing style.8. Be patient: Developing your own writing style is a journey that takes time. Don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t happen overnight. Keep writing, experimenting, and refining your craft, and your style will continue to evolve.Remember, developing your own writing style is about finding your unique voice and expressing yourself authentically. Embrace your individuality and let your personality shine through your writing.

The post Developing Your Own Writing Style appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

Dear Younger Self,I know that you often worry about your writing skills and how they will develop over time. I want to assure you that with each new book you write, your skills will improve and continually develop. It’s a natural progression that will allow you to find your rhythm, method, and voice.When you first started writing, you may have felt unsure and inexperienced. The words didn’t flow as effortlessly as you hoped, and you questioned whether you had what it takes to become a great writer. But let me tell you, those doubts are unfounded.Writing is an art that requires practice and patience. Just like any other skill, it takes time to hone your craft. Each book you write will be a stepping stone towards improvement. You will learn from your mistakes, experiment with different techniques, and discover what works best for you.Don’t be discouraged by the initial struggles or setbacks you may encounter. They are all part of the learning process. Embrace them as opportunities for growth and keep pushing forward. Remember, even the most accomplished writers started from humble beginnings.As you write more books, you will gradually find your rhythm. You will develop a writing routine that suits you best, whether it’s early mornings or late nights, in a cozy café or a quiet corner of your home. This routine will help you establish discipline and allow your creativity to flow more freely.Amanda M. ThrasherFinding your method is another exciting aspect of your writing journey. You will experiment with various approaches, such as outlining or writing by the seat of your pants. You will discover what planning techniques work for you and what kind of structure helps you stay focused. Embrace this experimentation and trust that you will find the method that brings out your best work.Perhaps the most rewarding part of your writing journey will be finding your voice. It’s the unique way you express yourself through your words, the distinctive tone and style that make your writing yours. This voice will evolve with time and experience, becoming stronger and more refined. It will be an authentic reflection of who you are as a writer.So, my younger self, don’t worry. Embrace the journey of writing and trust in the process. Each new book you write will be an opportunity to improve your skills, find your rhythm, develop your method, and discover your voice. Enjoy the ride, and remember that the best is yet to come.With love and encouragement,Your Older SelfAmanda M. Thrasher

The post LETTER TO MY YOUNGER SELF appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

The Mischief series can be read in sequence or as stand-alone books because each story within the series is self-contained and focuses on a specific adventure or challenge faced by Lilly, Boris, and Jack. While there is an overarching storyline and character development throughout the series, each book can be enjoyed independently without prior knowledge of the previous books.For readers who prefer to read books in order, starting from the first book and progressing through the series allows them to witness the growth and development of the characters as they face new challenges and learn valuable life lessons. Reading in sequence also provides a deeper understanding of the relationships between the characters and the overall story arc.On the other hand, readers who choose to read the books as stand-alone stories can still fully enjoy and appreciate each individual adventure. The books are designed to introduce the characters and their unique personalities, allowing readers to become familiar with Lilly, Boris, and Jack quickly. The stories are self-contained and do not rely heavily on previous events, making them accessible to new readers.Whether read in sequence or as stand-alone books, the Mischief series offers delightful adventures, lovable characters, and gentle life lessons. The charming stories are filled with laughter, lighthearted moments, and important values such as teamwork, kindness, and integrity.

The post READ IN SEQUENCE OR OUT OF ORDER? appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.

Amanda M. Thrasher

Finding time to write as a parent can be challenging, but with some planning and prioritization, it is possible. Here are some tips to help you carve out time for writing:

1. Establish a writing routine: Set aside a specific time each day or week dedicated solely to writing. It could be early mornings, during nap times, or after the kids go to bed. Consistency is key to developing a writing habit.2. Communicate with your family: Let your family know about your writing goals and the importance of having dedicated writing time. Ask for their support and understanding, and find ways to involve them in activities that can keep them occupied while you write.3. Utilize short pockets of time: Look for small windows of time throughout the day when you can write. It could be during your child’s extracurricular activities, while waiting for appointments, or during breaks at work. Use these moments to jot down ideas, outline chapters, or revise your work.4. Prioritize and delegate: Identify non-essential tasks that can be delegated or postponed to free up more time for writing. It may involve asking your partner, family members, or friends to help with household chores, childcare, or other responsibilities.5. Create a writing space: Designate a specific area in your home where you can focus on writing. Make it a comfortable, organized, and inspiring space that helps you get into the writing mindset. This will also signal to your family that you are in your writing zone.6. Set realistic goals: Be mindful of your available time and set achievable writing goals. Start with smaller writing targets and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable and efficient in managing your time.7. Use technology to your advantage: Make use of writing apps, voice-to-text tools, or note-taking apps on your phone to capture ideas or write during moments when sitting down with a computer is not feasible.8. Seek support from other writers: Join writing groups or online communities where you can connect with other writers who understand the challenges of balancing writing with parenting. They can offer advice, motivation, and accountability.Remember, it’s important to be flexible and adaptable as a parent. Some days may be more challenging than others, but with determination and a bit of creativity, you can find time to pursue your writing passion while fulfilling your parenting responsibilities.

The post Finding Time To Write appeared first on Amanda M. Thrasher.