Unconventional writing habits of famous writers: What can we learn?

Writing is a unique and personal experience, and every writer has their own approach to nurturing creativity and bringing their ideas to life. Famous writers, in particular, are known for their unconventional writing habits, from weird workspaces to strange preoccupations, to daily rituals. Let’s explore some unconventional writing habits of famous writers and what we can learn from them.

1.   Taking Long Walks – Charles Dickens

The famous author of “Oliver Twist”, Charles Dickens was famous for taking long walks after dinner. He believed that walking helped him to clear his mind, generate ideas and build his creative energy. This habit helped him to stay focused and motivated in his writing and to come up with new ideas for his next masterpiece.

2.   Using Music as Inspiration – Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou, the celebrated author of “I Know Why the Caged Birds Sing” would often play classical music while she wrote. She believed that music helped her relax and stimulate her mind, so she could write with a place of inspiration. Angelou also wrote in hotel rooms, where the noise and unfamiliar surroundings stimulated her creativity.

3.   Writing in Bed – Truman Capote

Truman Capote, author of “In Cold Blood” was known for writing while lying down in bed, often surrounded by cigarette butts and crumpled sheets. He found comfort in the relaxed posture and believed he could write and think more clearly in bed. His unconventional habit allowed him to focus entirely on his work, without the distraction of the outside world.

4.   Daily Schedule – Ernest Hemingway

The Pulitzer and Nobel Prize-winning author. Ernest Hemingway would wake up at dawn every day to start his writing before the rest of the world awoke. He believed that early morning was the best time for productive writing, and typically spend four hours writing, then spend the rest of the day enjoying his other passions like fishing and hunting.

5.   Writing by Hand: J. K. Rowling

The author of the Harry Potter series, J. K. Rowling preferred to write her first drafts by hand using a pen and a notebook. She would then transfer what she had written to her computer, honing and refining her work as she typed. Writing in this way gave her a sense of freedom in creativity which she couldn’t achieve with a computer.

Every writer has to find their own unique path toward creative excellence. Just because a famous author’s writing habit worked for them doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you. You should try different techniques and routines and experiment with different creative processes until you find the one that works best for you.

At Books That Inspire, we aim to provide a platform for aspiring writers to come together as a community and support each other. Whether you’re looking for insights on creative writing, book marketing, or publishing, our team of skilled editors is here to help you. Join us today and start unlocking your writing potential!

The Six Essential Plot Elements for Crafting an Engaging Story

As an author, the art of storytelling lies in the mastery of the plot. The plot is the foundation of any story, and it reflects the journey of the characters and how they deal with the conflict presented. To create an engaging story, you must follow these six crucial plot elements that can keep your readers captivated till the very end.

  1.   Exposition:

This lays the groundwork for your story. It introduces your reader to your characters, the setting, and the central conflict that will drive the story. The exposition sets the stage for the readers to understand the characters’ intentions while framing what’s at stake.

A classic example of this is ‘The Hunger Games’, where the exposition shows the protagonist Katniss’s grim life in District 12 and her volunteer tribute to save her sister.

  1.   Rising Action:

This element introduces the main obstacles and conflicts that the characters face. This is the core of your story, where tensions rise, and the protagonist’s conflicts escalate. The rising action leads the reader to the climax.

For example, in ‘The Lord Of The Rings’, the rising action follows Frodo’s journey to destroy the One Ring, where he faces danger and obstacles throughout the story.

  1.   Climax:

This is the pivotal point in the story where the conflict reaches its peak. It is when the protagonist faces the central problem head-on, often with a significant choice, leading to the outcome or resolution of the story. The climax is the turning point of the story, where the tension reaches its peak.

The climax in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ involves Harry and his friends confronting Voldemort and trying to stop him from obtaining the Philosopher’s Stone.

  1.   Falling Action:

This element begins to wind down the story toward its conclusion. The falling action details the consequences of the climax, leading to the resolution. Many loose ends are tied up in this stage.

In ‘The Lion King’, during the falling action, Simba ascends to the throne and restores order to the Pride Lands.

  1.   Resolution:

This element is where the story ends or concludes. The resolution presents the consequences of the choices made by the protagonist during the climax. The conflict is resolved, and a sense of closure is given to the readers. The resolution is where the significant issues identified in the exposition are tied together in a satisfying manner.

An appropriate example of this would be in ‘The Great Gatsby’ when Nick decides to move away from New York and leaves behind an ostentatious life.

  1.   Conclusion:

This provides the aftermath of the resolution – a glimpse of what happens next in the lives of the characters in the story.

In ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’, Scout walking Boo back home and reflecting on the lessons she learned would be the perfect example of this element.

Mastering the six critical plot elements is essential to crafting an engaging and impactful story. Each element serves a unique purpose, and they work together to create a well-structured and emotionally satisfying journey for the reader. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different plot structures and writing styles to find your unique voice. By incorporating these elements, you can create a story that captures your readers’ imaginations, evokes their emotions, and most importantly, leaves a lasting impression.

So, what are you waiting for? Start crafting your next masterpiece today and let your creativity and imagination run wild! If you have any questions or would like to learn more about writing a bestseller, you can check out our ‘Courses’ section. 

The Future Of Writing: How Technology Is Revolutionizing The Writing Process

As the world of technology expands, so does the world of literature. Emerging tools for writers are revolutionizing the way authors write, market, and publish their work. In this article, we will explore some of the most exciting new trends in the intersection of literature and technology.

1.   Digital Storytelling

Digital storytelling allows authors to create multimedia stories with the use of technology. Whether it’s through video, audio, animation, or interactive websites, digital storytelling takes traditional storytelling to a whole new level. This can be a great tool for authors who want to engage their readers in a more dynamic way.

One example of this is the “Choose Your Own Adventure” style of storytelling. In this format, readers are given multiple options at different points in the story and determine the outcome. The popular Netflix show Black Mirror even created an interactive film called “Bandersnatch,” allowing viewers to choose their own path through the story.

2.   Author Platforms

Author platforms give writers a space to showcase their work, connect with fans, and sell their books. These digital platforms can include blogs, websites, and social media accounts. The rise of self-publishing has made author platforms more important than ever, as writers must market their own work in addition to writing it.

Author platforms also give authors an opportunity to connect with readers and build relationships with them. This can lead to a community of loyal, dedicated fans who will follow your work for years to come. Plus, with the ability to track website analytics, authors can see how many people are visiting their site and which pages are the most popular, giving them insights into what their audience wants.

3.   Virtual Writing Software

Virtual writing software is changing the way authors approach the writing process. Software programs like Scrivener, Ulysses, and Grammarly offer features that help writers organize their thoughts, track their progress, and edit their work. Virtual writing software can also offer suggestions for things like sentence structure, word choice, and grammar.

Some of these programs even allow writers to set writing goals. This can help authors stay on track, monitor their progress, and increase productivity.

In this fast-paced digital world, technology has become an essential tool for authors willing to reach new readers and transform the way they write. The intersection of literature and technology has brought many emerging tools that are changing the way writers approach their craft, and the possibilities are infinite.

Join our community today and unlock the full potential of your writing. Write your story, no matter how big or small, and let our readers experience the worlds you create. Be part of the future of literature and use technology to reach new heights in your writing journey.

 The Art Of Crafting Memorable Endings

As an author, you put in countless hours writing and crafting your story that engages and entertains your readers. But one of the most challenging aspects of writing is nailing the ending in a way that satisfies and resonates with your audience. A good ending can make all the difference between a book that’s quickly forgotten and one that lingers with readers long after they’ve finished it. Here are some tips for how to write good endings for your book.

1.   Know your ending before you start writing:

A strong ending begins with a clear understanding of what you want to achieve with your book. Before you start writing a single word, take the time to define your ending. Consider what message you want to leave with your readers and how you want them to feel when they finish reading your book. This will give you a clear vision of how to shape the story as you progress.

2.   Tie up loose ends:

All of the plot and character threads you’ve carefully woven throughout your book should come together in your ending. All questions should be answered, and all the loose ends should be tied up. Make sure your reader is fully satisfied with the resolution and has no lingering questions.

3.   Leave room for interpretation:

At the same time, it’s important to leave room for interpretation. Don’t give away too much, too quickly. Allow your readers to form their own ideas about what happened, while still giving them a satisfying payoff.

4.   Deliver an emotional punch:

The most memorable endings are the ones that deliver a powerful emotional punch. Whether it’s a shocking revelation or a deeply moving moment, aim to leave your readers with a lasting emotional impact. Consider what emotions you want your readers to feel and build towards a satisfying payoff.

5.   Consider the pacing:

It’s important to build towards your ending with the proper pacing. If your ending comes out of nowhere, it can feel unsatisfying or contrived. On the other hand, if you spend too much time building towards it, you risk losing your readers’ attention. Strike a balance between building towards your ending and keeping your reader engaged throughout the book.

6.   Testing your ending:

Once you’ve finished your book, it’s a good idea to test your ending with a trusted beta reader or a writing group. Get feedback on whether the ending feels satisfying and whether there are any lingering questions or loose ends. Don’t be afraid to make revisions based on this feedback.

Crafting a memorable ending is one of the biggest challenges of writing a book. By following these tips, you can ensure that your ending leaves a lasting impact on your readers. With these tools, you can write an ending that resonates with the readers long after they finish your book.

If you are an author looking to publish your book, consider reaching out to Books That Inspire. Our team of experts will work with you to ensure that your book is the best it can be and help you navigate the publishing process. Take the first step on your journey to becoming a published author by joining us. 

The Art And Science Of Choosing The Perfect Title For Your Book

Did you know that the title of your book could make or break its success? Yes, that’s right. The title is the very first thing that potential readers will see and it is what will entice them to pick it up or keep scrolling.

Coming up with the perfect title can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Thankfully, there are both art and science involved in creating a title that will resonate with readers and accurately represent your book. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect title:

1.   Brainstorm compelling title ideas:

Start by brainstorming a list of compelling title ideas. You can include keywords or themes from your book, the tone or mood of your story, or even something that will create intrigue or mystery. Don’t worry about getting it perfect right away, just focus on generating as many ideas as possible.

2.   Test your title idea:

Once you have a list of ideas, select a few that you think are the strongest and do a little research. Use focus groups, surveys, or even social media to get feedback from potential readers. This can help you eliminate weak titles and give you a better understanding of what resonates with your audience.

3.   Make sure it accurately reflects the content of the book:

Your title should give readers an accurate idea of what to expect from your book. Avoid misleading titles that may leave readers disappointed and frustrated. Remember, readers will form an opinion of your book based on the title, and you want it to be a positive one.

4.   Incorporate search engine optimization (SEO):

Did you know that incorporating SEO into your title can increase visibility and drive traffic to your book’s page? By including keywords in your title, you can improve your ranking in search engines and make it easier for potential readers to find your book.

5.   Keep it short and memorable:

A title that is short and memorable is more likely to stick in a reader’s mind. It should be easy to say, easy to remember, and catchy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different formats or word combinations until you find the perfect fit.

Remember, creating a title that resonates with readers and reflects your book’s content takes time and effort. It involves both art and science, and every book is unique. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and take the time to find the right title. A compelling title can make all the difference in the success of your book.

Overall, choosing the perfect title for your book takes both effort and creativity. With the right combination of keywords, a clear indication of the book’s content, and a catchy, easily memorable title, you’ll have a much better chance of capturing readers’ attention and encouraging them to give your book a chance.

At Books That Inspire, we understand all too well that a great title is one of the biggest keys to success in the literary world. Whatever your book’s genre or target audience, we’re here to help you explore all your options and create the best, most resonant title possible.

With our guidance and support, you can confidently share your book with the world and know that it has the best possible chance of making an impact. Join Books That Inspire today and let us help your literary dreams come to life!

Tell-Tale Signs Of Bad Writing

As a publishing house, we, at Books That Inspire have seen a lot of writing, some great, some good, and some not so good. We understand that writing is a craft that takes time and practice to be perfect, but there are some tell-tale signs of bad writing that we see time and time again. In this blog, we’ve put together some signs to help aspiring authors recognize and avoid them.

1.   Poor grammar and spelling:

This may seem obvious, but poor grammar and spelling can seriously detract from the quality of your writing. If you’re not confident in your grammar and spelling skills, we recommend brushing up on them before submitting your work. Use spell check and grammar check tools, or have someone else proofread your work.

2.   Lack of structure:

A well-structured piece of writing should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. It should also have a clear thesis or argument that is supported throughout the piece. If your writing lacks structure, it can be difficult for readers to follow and understand.

3.   Overuse of adjectives and adverbs:

While adjectives and adverbs can add color and description to your writing, overusing them can make your writing feel cluttered and awkward. Instead, focus on using strong nouns and verbs to convey your ideas.

4.   Repetition:

Repetition can be used effectively in writing for emphasis, but too much repetition can be tedious and distracting. Try to vary your sentence structure and word choice to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

5.   Lack of specificity:

Specificity is key to good writing. Instead of using vague language, try to be as specific as possible in your description and details. This will make your writing more engaging and immersive for the readers.

6.   Inconsistency:

Inconsistencies in your writing can be confusing and jarring for readers. This includes inconsistencies in tone, style, and even character traits. Make sure to stay consistent throughout your piece to ensure a smooth reading experience.

7.   Lack of editing:

Perhaps the biggest sign of bad writing is a lack of editing. No one’s writing is perfect on the first try, and it’s important to take the time to review and revise your work. This includes checking for spelling and grammar errors, as well as addressing any structural or content issues.

By avoiding these tell-tale signs of bad writing, aspiring authors can improve the quality of their work and increase their chances of getting published.

At Books That Inspire, we’re committed to helping writers achieve their goals and produce their best work. If you’re an aspiring author looking for guidance and support, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you on your writing journey.

Mastering The Art Of Writing Flow: Tips For Aspiring Authors

As an author, one of the biggest challenges you may face is making your writing flow. Writing flow refers to the ease and coherence with which your writing progresses from one sentence to the next. It is essential to create an immersive experience for your readers, making it difficult for them to put down your work. In this blog, we will share some techniques that can help you master the art of writing flow.

1.   Start with an outline:

Before you start writing, create an outline with the key points that you want to make. This will help in organizing your thoughts and ensure that your writing flows smoothly from start to finish. Also, make sure to include transitions that link your ideas and paragraphs. A well-crafted outline can make the writing process smoother, allowing you to focus on your creativity.

2.   Write naturally:

One of the most critical aspects of writing flow is to write naturally. Write in a conversational tone that you would use when speaking with anyone else. Keep in mind the context of the story you want to tell and use it to guide the story’s natural flow. The more naturally you write, the more exciting and engaging your content will be for the reader.

3.   Avoid redundancy:

Another factor to consider here is redundancy. Avoid repeating ideas or phrases, which can make your content sound monotonous. Instead, use synonyms and different phrasing to provide variety and maintain the reader’s interest.

4.   Use powerful transitions:

Transitions guide the reader through your work, paving the way from one idea to the next. They provide coherence, ensure that your message is received, and prevent misunderstandings. Use words that signal the relationships between the previous and the upcoming sentences. Some examples of possible transitions are ‘in addition’, ‘what’s more’, ‘however’, ‘since’, and ‘on the other hand’.

5.   Edit, edit, and edit:

Finally, the most crucial step in achieving writing flow is to edit your work thoroughly. Re-read your content, ensuring that it flows seamlessly and makes sense. Look out for any inconsistencies, grammatical errors, or awkward sentences that can disrupt the flow. Edit until you are satisfied with what you have written.

Writing flow is an ongoing process that takes time and practice to perfect! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques to find what works best for you. Remember that writing is a creative process, and there is no ‘one’ right way to do it. By incorporating these techniques into your writing process, you can greatly improve your writing and overall quality of work.

At Books That Inspire, we are committed to helping aspiring authors unleash their creativity and achieve their writing goals. Whether you need guidance on writing flow or other writing skills and techniques, we are here to support you.

Keep practicing and remember that every writer started as an aspiring author!

Laugh Your Way To Success: 7 Tips For Thinking Like A Comedy Writer

As a writer, whether you’re working on a comedic screenplay, novel, or sketch, you know that making your audience laugh is a challenging task. Comedy is an art form that requires a keen understanding of human nature, timing, and the ability to come up with clever and original material. But how do you get into the mindset of a comedy writer?

Here are seven tips that will help you think like a comedy writer and improve your comedic writing skills:

1.   Watch comedy:

One of the best ways to think like a comedy writer is to immerse yourself in the genre. Watch stand-up comedians, sitcoms, sketch shows, and movies. Pay attention to the techniques they use to create humor and try to analyze what makes them work.

2.   Find your funny:

Everyone has a unique sense of humor and finding yours is crucial to being a successful comedy writer. Think about what makes you laugh and what type of humor you enjoy. You can use personal experiences and perspectives to create material that is authentic and relatable.

3.   Experiment with different styles:

Comedy comes in many forms, from slapstick to satire. Experiment with different styles of humor to find what works best for you. Try writing a parody, spoof or comedic monologue.

4.   Embrace the absurd:

Sometimes, the best comedy comes from the unexpected. Embrace the absurd and allow yourself to think outside the box. Explore bizarre situations and characters that push the boundaries of reality.

5.   Use misdirection:

Misdirection is a common tool in comedy. It involves setting up an expectation and then subverting it. For example, a character might be set up to deliver a serious speech, only to break into a song and dance routine. This technique can create surprising and hilarious results.

6.   Edit ruthlessly:

Comedy writing is often about getting to the punchline as efficiently as possible. Edit your material ruthlessly to eliminate anything that doesn’t serve the joke. Tightening up your writing can make your comedy more effective and impactful

7.   Practice, practice, practice:

As with any skill, practice is essential. Write every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Attend writing workshops or join a writing group to get feedback and support from other aspiring writers.

Thinking like a comedy writer requires a combination of creativity, observation, and practice. By following these 7 tips, you can develop your comedic writing skills and create material that will make your readers or audiences laugh.We at Books That Inspire support our authors by offering them one on one coaching sessions with our founder, Priya Kumar. If you are interested to know more about our publishing services, contact us today.

How To Write A Self-Help Book That Will Change Lives

Self-help books have become incredibly popular in recent years. They are a great way to share knowledge, inspire others, and help people make positive changes in their lives. If you have a unique perspective on a particular topic or have personal experience that you believe can help others, you might be considering writing your own self-help book. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1.   Identify your target audience:

Before you start writing, it’s important to identify your target audience. Who are you writing for? What do they need help with? What kind of language and tone will resonate with them? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your message and make your book more effective.

2.   Develop a clear message:

What is the main message you want to convey in your book? What do you want your readers to take away from it? This message should be clear and consistent throughout the book.

3.   Create an outline:

Once you have your message, create an outline for your book. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your book flows logically from one chapter to the next.

4.   Use stories and examples:

People are more likely to remember stories and examples than dry facts and statistics. Use real-life stories and examples to illustrate your points and make your book more engaging.

5.   Be concise:

Self-help books should be concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary words and phrases and get straight to the point. Your readers will appreciate it.

6.   Provide actionable advice:

The whole point of a self-help book is to help people make positive changes in their lives. Make sure your book provides actionable advice that your readers can put into practice.

7.   Edit and proofread:

Once you’ve written your book, take the time to edit and proofread it carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can detract from your message and make your book look unprofessional.

Writing a self-help book can be a rewarding experience. Not only can it help you share your knowledge and expertise, but it can also help you make a positive impact on the lives of others. By following these tips, you can write a self-help book that will change lives and establish yourself as an authority in the industry.As an author, you have the power to inspire and change lives. Let us help you do just that. To know more about our publishing services, contact us at authorscorner@booksthatinpire.in.

Finding Inspiration In Unlikely Places: How To Discover Your Next Book Idea

As writers, we know that finding inspiration can be one of the most challenging aspects of creating a new book. We all have days when we hit a wall and struggle to find the motivation to sit down and write. However, inspiration can come from unexpected places, and it’s vital to know how to harness it. Let’s discuss different ways to find inspiration in unlikely places and generate ideas that stand out.

1.   Mining Personal Experiences

Your personal experiences are a goldmine of book ideas. Think about the significant events in your life – the people you’ve met, the places you’ve traveled, and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Use them as a starting point for your next book idea. Personal experiences are not only a rich source of inspiration but can also help you create authentic characters and stories that resonate with your readers.

2.   Exploring Dreams

We know this is not a common practice but dreams can be a powerful source of inspiration for writers. Dreams are often full of symbolism and can provide a unique perspective into our lives, thoughts, and emotions. Keep a notebook by your bedside and jot down your dreams as soon as you wake up. As you reflect on your dreams, you may find themes or symbols that can inspire your next book idea.

3.   Finding Inspiration in Nature

Nature can be a source of inspiration and a great way to spark your creativity. Go for a walk in the park, explore the beach, or take a hike in the mountains. Observe your surroundings closely and listen to the sounds that surround you. You may find that the beauty of nature can inspire you to come up with a new book idea.

4.   Connecting with People

Interacting with people is an excellent way to find inspiration for your next book idea. Talk to people and listen to their stories. People’s struggles, achievements, and unique perspectives can inspire new characters and plot points. Even the seemingly ordinary interactions can plant a seed of inspiration that can grow into a fantastic book idea.

5.   Stimulating Your Senses

Stimulating your senses can help you unlock your creativity and find inspiration in unlikely places. Listen to music, burn candles, explore new food, or immerse yourself in different cultures. Engaging your senses can open your mind to new possibilities and help you find inspiration that you wouldn’t have found otherwise.

In the end, finding inspiration in unlikely places is all about being open and observant. As writers, our job is to tap into the world around us and translate our experiences into captivating stories. Keep an open mind, trust your instincts, and let your creativity flow. You never know where your next book idea may come from.

At Books That Inspire, we are dedicated to helping writers unlock their creative potential and reach their writing goals. With a supportive community of fellow writers, resources, and expert advice, we offer everything you need to build your skills and confidence. Join us today and let’s explore the power of inspiration together!