This week, James Curnow ponders the detrimental effect of sequels on the original material. Paula Meiner covers the pros and cons of beta readers while Sophie Hannah questions the concept behind the Staunch prize for thrillers that avoid violence against women.
James Scott Bell, Tracy Hahn-Burkett, and Steven James weigh in on the related topics of burnout, frustration, and stressing yourself out over meeting your writing goals. Bottom line: Challenge yourself without killing yourself.
All that and a little more. Enjoy!
12 Books That Destroyed and Rebuilt My Mind by Jordan Bates
Why Good Sequels are Bad Sequels: Blade Runner 2049 and the Building of Worlds by James Curnow
A Short History of South Asian Speculative Fiction: Part I by Mimi Mondal
The Pros and Cons of Beta Readers by Paula Munier
Avoiding Burnout with Strategic Breaks by James Scott Bell
What to Do When Your Creativity Hits the Wall by Tracy Hahn-Burkett
From 2000 to 300—Why You’re Writing Too Much by Steven James
Prize Launched for Thrillers That Avoid Sexual Violence Against Women by Alison Flood
A Prize for Thrillers With No Violence Against Women? That’s Not Progressive by Sophie Hannah
Do Your Characters Talk Too Much? When to Use Indirect Dialogue by Anne R. Allen