All posts tagged: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Ficiton Friday: Amoxicillin Meets Decorating Meets Literary Agent

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By Leslie Lindsay Today I learned that an literary agent who I have had some “interest” in will be featured at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Writer’s Institute.  I have been to both continuing studies programs the university hosts for writers.  I love them.  I was kind of considering going again this April, but hadn’t made a formal committment.  Now that this agent is going to be there–and offering a chance for me to pitch my novel–I just may sign up.  But it scares the bejeesus outta me!  Sure–my ultimate hope is for is my book face out at a local bookstore.  Sure, I want readers.  And I guess it’s got to start somewhere, right?  That means I need to finish polishing this darn thing pronto!  That means I need to get some homework done before I pitch–what does my book compare to?  What else is out there like it?  Who do I write like?  And then I need to drop 10 lbs and get a new outfit.  Sounds so simple, right? Okay–here’s my revised chapter …

Write on, Wednesday: Decontrusting a Novel

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By Leslie Lindsay We writers love to read.  It kind of goes with the territory.  So, it is surprise that while I was away on a writing retreat at the University Wisconsin-Madison last week, we talked about just that…writers who read and readers who write.  Now, if you have a book you are wild about, why not take it apart…I don’t mean literally, but more in a metaphorical way.  It will help you become a better writer.  Here’s the deal: Get your hands on a book/novel you really like.  You’ve read it before, I am sure. Now, prepare a little worksheet (I know, it sounds like school…but I did mine on a piece of scrap paper from the kitchen last night). What’s the title?  Write it down on the top of your paper.  Author, too. What does the back cover blurb say?  Write it down or make a photocopy.  What are some of the familiar (everyday, commonplace) themes/elements in the book?  [doctors, families, moms, infidelity] What’s the unique angle?  (what makes this book different from …