EDIT:
Writer…Uninterrupted: A Handbook for the Emerging Writer
available now from Amazon!
Hey, everybody! 4amwriter is going indie!
If you don’t know who 4amwriter – Kate Johnston – is, click the link above and head over to her blog to find out. You won’t even need to come back here, because she can speak for herself much better than I can do, but I’ll share my experience of Kate anyway, because I always like a personal touch when I read recommendations. And, if you know the kind of writer I was before Kate, you’ll get an understanding of how I’ve grown with her help.
I first “met” writer, editor, and activist Kate Johnston about three years ago, through a writing blog called LimebirdWriters (archives still available and worth it!). Over the course of reading her poetry and prose, and looking through her articles and commentary, I learned a lot about writing in general, as well as my own voice. I even took advantage of an editing offer Kate had a few years ago, for which I sent her the first 1000 words of my 2012 NaNoWriMo story, “Anywhere but Here.” Her feedback for that scene was awesome, so much it pains me that I’m still trying to sort out the best way to rewrite this story, to be worthy of those comments. Kate’s helped me with other scenes over the years, too. So, when I read that she was jumping into independent publishing with a series of books on helping writers be better writers, I knew I had to help spread the word.
My acquaintanceship with Kate doesn’t even begin to scratch this lady’s surface. Head over to her blog and read about her adventures in writing and life – of both the 2-legged and 4-legged variety! You will not be disappointed. And, while you’re there, click “Follow” so you’ll know when her “Writer…Uninterrupted” series hits the virtual shelves. You’ll be glad you did so.
I’m lucky enough to have had Kate read over several of my manuscript drafts. And, like you, I’ve become a better writer for it. I’m looking forward to adding this series to “my writer’s toolbox” when it’s available!
This is such an awesome shout-out, Mayumi. I was not expecting this when you asked if it was okay to “help spread the word.” Maybe I ought to hire you as my publicist? 😉
I still feel like a deer in headlights with this decision. But I felt the same with my decision to blog, and I guess that turned out all right!
I want to provide a meaningful set of resource material for writers at any stage of their quests. I also look forward to adding in helpful information from fellow writers who can share other experiences and lessons. I remember how low I felt at some points in my journey, and it was blogging buddies like yourself that helped pull me back up. You guys are a key reason I feel like I can help guide other writers along. But I think that’s a very important part of the writing gig — a positive support system. And I would love for Writer…Uninterrupted to be a part of a writer’s positive support system.
Thanks again for your support!
I can’t wait to read it, Kate is a gifted writer and an accomplished instructor. Anything she has to say will be useful! But Mayumi, we’ll still need to come here too. 🙂 BTW, I got your book Friday lunchtime. Fast!
I feel lucky to have so many such talented writer friends, especially ones willing to give of their time and expertise, like you and Kate, JM. For those of us who are interested in learning and honing what we do, personal critique is paramount, but I know I always come away with articles like Kate’s having learned something new to apply. 🙂
Thanks for writing – and reading!
Yay! I’m glad USPS came through. 🙂
I always looked forward to everything the Limebirds put out, especially stories. I know everyone’s lives and careers took you in different directions, but I’m so glad I got to meet such talented writers like you and Kate through it. I feel like the LBs are my writing buddies for life, and that life is definitely fuller for you. 🙂
Absolutely, Kate! I’ve always learned so much from your words and guidance, it’s only fair to help share that with others.
Writing/art is one of the few things for which I feel very little competition. Sure, I might get a tickle of envy for someone else’s success, but the art of it reaches me honestly. I think that’s because, when I read or see other people’s art, it evokes feeling, and feeling is honest. It’s when I step out of that moment of experience that my editor brains kick in, and I start to dissect the work. Both sides of that are important for our own growth. The tricky part is making them work together. Your words have helped me get to a better place of that. I’m hoping others can learn just as much from you. 🙂
Thanks for being a writer buddy!
Excellent pick-up, Neeks — Mayumi’s blog is a great motivational and educational tool for me too. 🙂
Oh, thanks, Kate! If I can offer in return just a fraction of what I’ve received in support and guidance from my blog buddies, I’m happy. 😀