Doris
asked
Ærick Graham:
Who besides Tolkien would you recommend as a good read? I have a "book report" type of notes for 'characters' who won't leave alone. Book material? I think so, however, I have been reading Moning and have one HUGE fear. Sound too much like her. How do you read your fav.'s and duplicate their work? Authors I read give me ideas and I am afraid duplication. How do you keep from that? Do you do Giveaways?
Ærick Graham
Generally, I would recommend reading all types of authors and genres in order to get a broad range of writing styles. You won't enjoy everything you encounter, but if you approach each reading as an opportunity to improve your own writing, you may pick up on new story telling and writing techniques.
In fantasy, I would recommend Neil Gaiman, George R.R. Martin, Patrick Rothfuss, Scott Lynch, Laini Taylor, Philip Pullman, D.M. Cornish, and Garth Nix to name a few. There are many I have not read that are on my "to read" list.
I also study film as a way of understanding storytelling. T.V shows too.
I understand your fear about duplicating a writing style or ideas. I had the same experience when I started out writing. It is OK. If your goal is to be a writer, then write, even if you feel it is too similar to your favorite author. Once you are in a habit of writing often, your own, personal and authentic voice will come through. Writing is just your thoughts and feeling on a page. It will be unique and you will make it your own in time.
And, there are no new ideas. It is your voice that makes the story unique. For example, name a book about a orphan boy who goes to a magical school to be a wizard.
Harry Potter? Correct. Also, The Name of the Wind, by Patrick Rothfuss. Similar premise, but two completely different stories and writing styles. Both very successful. Rothfuss's books came after Harry Potter. I am sure he realized the similarities between his books and Rowling's. But he was self aware enough to know that was where the similarities ended, that he had a very different story to tell and he kept working on it for 10 years before he was published. I see that as proof that hard work, with perseverance and a strong self-belief will create success. Doubts are normal, the skill is to know how to move past them. Also, surround yourself with cheerleaders, people who encourage you. Last, meet fellow writers whom you can exchange writings. You have to be open to feedback and critiquing if you want to improve in anything.
Yes! I have two giveaways going on. On Goodreads, I am giving away 20 copies of the paperback version. This will end July 1. If you haven't entered, do. Winners will be randomly chosen. On Amazon, I am giving away Kindle version as well. I think this has another week before it ends. But you might also be able to check the book out for free. It is also for sale for just $2.99.
Thanks for your many and great questions. Always happy to talk shop!
In fantasy, I would recommend Neil Gaiman, George R.R. Martin, Patrick Rothfuss, Scott Lynch, Laini Taylor, Philip Pullman, D.M. Cornish, and Garth Nix to name a few. There are many I have not read that are on my "to read" list.
I also study film as a way of understanding storytelling. T.V shows too.
I understand your fear about duplicating a writing style or ideas. I had the same experience when I started out writing. It is OK. If your goal is to be a writer, then write, even if you feel it is too similar to your favorite author. Once you are in a habit of writing often, your own, personal and authentic voice will come through. Writing is just your thoughts and feeling on a page. It will be unique and you will make it your own in time.
And, there are no new ideas. It is your voice that makes the story unique. For example, name a book about a orphan boy who goes to a magical school to be a wizard.
Harry Potter? Correct. Also, The Name of the Wind, by Patrick Rothfuss. Similar premise, but two completely different stories and writing styles. Both very successful. Rothfuss's books came after Harry Potter. I am sure he realized the similarities between his books and Rowling's. But he was self aware enough to know that was where the similarities ended, that he had a very different story to tell and he kept working on it for 10 years before he was published. I see that as proof that hard work, with perseverance and a strong self-belief will create success. Doubts are normal, the skill is to know how to move past them. Also, surround yourself with cheerleaders, people who encourage you. Last, meet fellow writers whom you can exchange writings. You have to be open to feedback and critiquing if you want to improve in anything.
Yes! I have two giveaways going on. On Goodreads, I am giving away 20 copies of the paperback version. This will end July 1. If you haven't entered, do. Winners will be randomly chosen. On Amazon, I am giving away Kindle version as well. I think this has another week before it ends. But you might also be able to check the book out for free. It is also for sale for just $2.99.
Thanks for your many and great questions. Always happy to talk shop!
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