How To Write And Sell Great Short Stories

Introduction

Linda M. James’ “How To Write And Sell Great Short Stories” is an informative and practical guide for aspiring writers looking to improve their craft and sell their work. James has been a successful writer for over 30 years, and her experience shines through in this book. With clear and concise writing, James provides valuable advice and strategies for writing short stories that are engaging, well-crafted, and marketable.

Section One: The Basics

In the first section of the book, James lays out the basics of writing short stories, including the importance of understanding the market and identifying your target audience. She also covers the essential elements of a short story, such as plot, character, setting, and conflict. James’ explanations are clear and easy to understand, making this section a great starting point for beginners.

Section Two: Writing Techniques

The second section of the book is devoted to writing techniques. James provides practical advice for improving your writing skills, including how to create realistic characters, use dialogue effectively, and build tension in your story. She also covers different narrative techniques, such as point of view and voice, and how they can be used to enhance your storytelling.

One of the most helpful chapters in this section is “Show, Don’t Tell.” James explains how this writing technique can be use to create vivid, immersive scenes that engage readers and keep them invested in your story. She provides numerous examples of how to use sensory details and descriptive language to bring a story to life.

Section Three: The Business of Writing

The third section of the book is focus on the business side of writing. James covers topics such as submitting your work to literary magazines, understanding contracts, and building your author platform. This section is particularly helpful for writers who are just starting out. And need guidance on how to navigate the publishing world.

One of the most valuable chapters in this section is “Marketing and Promotion.” James provides practical tips for building your brand, creating a website, and using social media to promote your work. She also emphasizes the importance of networking and building relationships with other writers, agents, and publishers.

Section Four: Selling Your Short Stories

The final section of the book is devote to selling your short stories. James provides a step-by-step guide for submitting your work to literary magazines and anthologies. As well as advice for finding the right agent or publisher. She also covers self-publishing and e-publishing, providing a comprehensive overview of the different options available to writers.

One of the standout chapters in this section is “Dealing With Rejection.” James acknowledges that rejection is an inevitable part of the writing process and provides practical strategies for coping with it. She encourages writers to view rejection as an opportunity for growth and to use feedback to improve their work.

Conclusion

Overall, “How To Write And Sell Great Short Stories” is an excellent resource for writers looking to improve their craft and market their work. James’ clear and concise writing style, combined with her wealth of experience. This book a must-read for anyone interested in writing short stories. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced writer, there is something in this book for everyone. Highly recommended