Tales from the Conference: More advice from Agent Alyssa Eisner Henkin

November is upon us: The month of NanoWrimo. For those not in the "Know" this is National Novel Writing Month where bunches of writers from all over the world commit to writing a novel (approx 50,000 words) in one month. This is a BIG undertaking, but I've decided to take the challenge with a new idea that's been bouncing around my head. The good thing about NanoWrimo is that you are just supposed to get the idea out. You aren't supposed to worry about the pesky editor in your head, grammar, punctuation. The only thing that matters is that you get your idea onto paper. Once December and the new year arrives. Then you can work on fixing what you've written.

Alyssa represents an author, Jessica Burkhart, who sold a story that was written during NanoWrimo. Alyssa's advice to those willing to take the challenge: to make October the National Month of Planning for NanoWrimo. Make an outline, do character sketches, whatever you can do to know your characters and have an idea where you are going. I'm going to call this PlannoWrimo! :)

So, that's what I've been doing. I've been outlining my project and trying to understand who my characters are and what makes them tick.

Anyone else up for the challenge?

Due to the challenge, my blogging will most likely take back seat. However, I love my connection to blogland and my blog friends. When I read posts and comments I feel like it's the equivalent of meeting my buddies in the cafeteria for some chat time. So, in honor of NanoWrimo, the upcoming Christmas season, and a shameless attempt to lure my blogging buddies over to my cafeteria table, I am going to do lots of book giveaways in November. A minimum of one a week. Some that I have on deck include: Secrets of Droon, SkinnyBones, an American Girl Mystery and more!!!!

Go NanoWrimo! Anyone else crazy enough to try it?