Goodreads asked M.A. Notaras:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

M.A. Notaras Here's some of what I've learned along the way:

1) create extremely in-depth character profiles before you start writing, otherwise the characters will be really bland
2) write every day to keep your momentum up
3) if you're writing for children and have a few of your own, read your story out to them - they'll be your best cheer squad and will inspire you to write more!
4) read your writing out loud to yourself - if it doesn't sound natural or make sense, change it
5) read lots of your genre to understand it, but don't copy - write with your own ideas and voice
6) listen to great podcasts from more experienced authors, join writers groups (can be online) - they have great tips and you are bolstered by their community.
7) don't get disheartened about the length of time it takes to write, the process can take a lot lot lot longer than you originally think (especially for the first book) it's a learning curve, after all!

Happy writing!

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