R. Frederick Riddle's Blog, page 70
November 26, 2014
Did You Know About Thanksgiving?
The following was taken from the Heritage Foundation webpage:
Following a resolution of Congress, President George Washington proclaimed Thursday the 26th of November 1789 a day of “public thanksgiving and prayer” devoted to “the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be.”
Reflecting American religious practice, Presidents and Congresses from the beginning of the republic have from time to time designated days of fasting and thanksgiving (the Thanksgiving holiday we continue to celebrate in November was established by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War and made into law by Congress in 1941).
In setting aside a day for Thanksgiving, Washington established a non-sectarian tone for these devotions and stressed political, moral, and intellectual blessings that make self-government possible, in addition to personal and national repentance. Although the First Amendment prevents Congress from establishing a religion or prohibiting its free exercise, Presidents, as well as Congress, have always recognized the American regard for sacred practices and beliefs.
Thus, throughout American history, Presidents have offered non-sectarian prayers for the victory of the military and in the wake of catastrophes. Transcending passionate quarrels over the proper role of religion in politics, the Thanksgiving Proclamation reminds us how natural their relationship has been.
While church and state are separate, religion and politics, in their American refinement, prop each other up.
As stated, the above is from the Heritage Foundation, but I have more to add.
Aside from government and politicians honoring God with Thanksgiving, we individual Americans need to do so. In fact, for us to expect our leaders to do what we won't just won't cut it.
Politicians tend to go with the flow.
Every one of us needs to take time and thank God for His many blessings. In an age of intolerance for Christians and for wide open moral behavior, we still have a lot to be thankful for in America.
We are still:
• one nation under God
• enjoying God's abundant blessings nationally
• enjoying God's individual care if we know Him
• able to worship Him freely
There is much, much more that we should be thankful for today and everyday. I invite you to take time to thank God. He deserves it, and you need to do it.
Following a resolution of Congress, President George Washington proclaimed Thursday the 26th of November 1789 a day of “public thanksgiving and prayer” devoted to “the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be.”
Reflecting American religious practice, Presidents and Congresses from the beginning of the republic have from time to time designated days of fasting and thanksgiving (the Thanksgiving holiday we continue to celebrate in November was established by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War and made into law by Congress in 1941).
In setting aside a day for Thanksgiving, Washington established a non-sectarian tone for these devotions and stressed political, moral, and intellectual blessings that make self-government possible, in addition to personal and national repentance. Although the First Amendment prevents Congress from establishing a religion or prohibiting its free exercise, Presidents, as well as Congress, have always recognized the American regard for sacred practices and beliefs.
Thus, throughout American history, Presidents have offered non-sectarian prayers for the victory of the military and in the wake of catastrophes. Transcending passionate quarrels over the proper role of religion in politics, the Thanksgiving Proclamation reminds us how natural their relationship has been.
While church and state are separate, religion and politics, in their American refinement, prop each other up.
As stated, the above is from the Heritage Foundation, but I have more to add.
Aside from government and politicians honoring God with Thanksgiving, we individual Americans need to do so. In fact, for us to expect our leaders to do what we won't just won't cut it.
Politicians tend to go with the flow.
Every one of us needs to take time and thank God for His many blessings. In an age of intolerance for Christians and for wide open moral behavior, we still have a lot to be thankful for in America.
We are still:
• one nation under God
• enjoying God's abundant blessings nationally
• enjoying God's individual care if we know Him
• able to worship Him freely
There is much, much more that we should be thankful for today and everyday. I invite you to take time to thank God. He deserves it, and you need to do it.
November 25, 2014
Seven Principles of Writing
Not to long ago I finished my physical rehab. Beginning one week after my heart attack, it lasted approximately two months. During the course of the rehab I saw some principles at work that can also apply to one's writing.
Principle #1 - GOALS
When beginning an exercise program it is never wise to have goals that are out of reach. You start with easy-to-reach goals. Best idea, have general goals, intermediate goals, and long term goals. At the beginning you are concerned with general goals.
This works in writing as well. Maybe you've never written before. Your goal would be to write that first chapter. Like a two pound weight is not much but is all a beginner can do, writing a chapter is also a lot of work for a new author.
Principle #2 - REPETITIONS
Still operating within the general goals you previously set you slowly increase the number of reps you are doing.
Perhaps you start out with ten, then move on to fifteen. After a while you move up to twenty and twenty-five. Then maybe you add another set of twenty-five reps and ten reps slowly increasing until you are doing two full sets.
Writing requires practice also. Maybe you are writing a single paragraph at the beginning. As you press onward you begin writing more until you can do several pages and eventually chapters in one sitting.
Today writers tend to use Word Count more than pages since it is more revealing and, perhaps, more controllable.
Principle #3 - CONSISTENCY
Consistency is the glue that holds everything together. This is true with physical and/or mental exercise. It is also true with writing. The more you write the more confident you become and the better you get.
That is why I recommend scheduling your writing. It can be daily, twice a week, three times a week, etc. The key is to set up a schedule and follow it the best you can. There will be times when life gets in the way, but if you have a schedule it helps you get restarted after interruptions.
How do I schedule? Basically I plan on writing daily. That writing may be different on one day than another. For example, I schedule my blog writing to occur either Monday or Tuesday. Today I not only scheduled my blog, but I focused on Blogging and writing my novel.
Principle #4 - DON'T QUIT
No one wants to be a quitter. It leaves a sour taste in your mouth. But sometimes we get discouraged and overwhelmed. What to do? I have found that when I don't feel like exercising, to exercise anyway. Perhaps something different.
Again this works for writing. Maybe I don't feel like working on my novel. There are other writing projects I can attend to. But I never quit!
Principle #5 - TESTING
When rehabbing I had a young man who would come to the house. He would check my vitals, have me do some exercises, and give me new exercises. Let me translate that: he tested me and gave me new assignments.
Once the rehab was over he no longer came, but I now know what to do every day. And by doing those same things I am able to test myself and decide on whether to use heavier weights and/or more reps.
As a writer you can also test yourself. Using Word Count you can examine a typical day's output. If you are consistently hitting one level (say 500 words per day), you may decide to strive for 550 words. This is tied into #1 - goals.
Principle #6 - IMAGINATION
If consistency is the glue then imagination is the power of writing. A writer needs an active imagination. We all hear of writer's block which I have never experienced. I think the reason is that I don't get stuck in one book.
When exercising, you often use your imagination to picture the work you are about to do or picture what you want to accomplish. As a writer, you obviously use your imagination when writing. But you it also to think of future books or projects.
In other words, sometimes take your mind off the current project and think about what you'd like to do next. You can even plan and set some things in motion.
By applying your mind and your imagination to something else you are giving yourself a shot of adrenaline. It refreshes you so that when you go back to that book, your mind is clear and ready for action.
Principle #7 - NEW GOALS
The first six principles are important, but if you are going become a more efficient and productive writer you can't stop there. Periodically you need to evaluate yourselves and set up new goals.
Principle #1 - GOALS
When beginning an exercise program it is never wise to have goals that are out of reach. You start with easy-to-reach goals. Best idea, have general goals, intermediate goals, and long term goals. At the beginning you are concerned with general goals.
This works in writing as well. Maybe you've never written before. Your goal would be to write that first chapter. Like a two pound weight is not much but is all a beginner can do, writing a chapter is also a lot of work for a new author.
Principle #2 - REPETITIONS
Still operating within the general goals you previously set you slowly increase the number of reps you are doing.
Perhaps you start out with ten, then move on to fifteen. After a while you move up to twenty and twenty-five. Then maybe you add another set of twenty-five reps and ten reps slowly increasing until you are doing two full sets.
Writing requires practice also. Maybe you are writing a single paragraph at the beginning. As you press onward you begin writing more until you can do several pages and eventually chapters in one sitting.
Today writers tend to use Word Count more than pages since it is more revealing and, perhaps, more controllable.
Principle #3 - CONSISTENCY
Consistency is the glue that holds everything together. This is true with physical and/or mental exercise. It is also true with writing. The more you write the more confident you become and the better you get.
That is why I recommend scheduling your writing. It can be daily, twice a week, three times a week, etc. The key is to set up a schedule and follow it the best you can. There will be times when life gets in the way, but if you have a schedule it helps you get restarted after interruptions.
How do I schedule? Basically I plan on writing daily. That writing may be different on one day than another. For example, I schedule my blog writing to occur either Monday or Tuesday. Today I not only scheduled my blog, but I focused on Blogging and writing my novel.
Principle #4 - DON'T QUIT
No one wants to be a quitter. It leaves a sour taste in your mouth. But sometimes we get discouraged and overwhelmed. What to do? I have found that when I don't feel like exercising, to exercise anyway. Perhaps something different.
Again this works for writing. Maybe I don't feel like working on my novel. There are other writing projects I can attend to. But I never quit!
Principle #5 - TESTING
When rehabbing I had a young man who would come to the house. He would check my vitals, have me do some exercises, and give me new exercises. Let me translate that: he tested me and gave me new assignments.
Once the rehab was over he no longer came, but I now know what to do every day. And by doing those same things I am able to test myself and decide on whether to use heavier weights and/or more reps.
As a writer you can also test yourself. Using Word Count you can examine a typical day's output. If you are consistently hitting one level (say 500 words per day), you may decide to strive for 550 words. This is tied into #1 - goals.
Principle #6 - IMAGINATION
If consistency is the glue then imagination is the power of writing. A writer needs an active imagination. We all hear of writer's block which I have never experienced. I think the reason is that I don't get stuck in one book.
When exercising, you often use your imagination to picture the work you are about to do or picture what you want to accomplish. As a writer, you obviously use your imagination when writing. But you it also to think of future books or projects.
In other words, sometimes take your mind off the current project and think about what you'd like to do next. You can even plan and set some things in motion.
By applying your mind and your imagination to something else you are giving yourself a shot of adrenaline. It refreshes you so that when you go back to that book, your mind is clear and ready for action.
Principle #7 - NEW GOALS
The first six principles are important, but if you are going become a more efficient and productive writer you can't stop there. Periodically you need to evaluate yourselves and set up new goals.
November 19, 2014
Did You Know About Pearl Harbor & 9/11?
The following is a reprint of my last Did You Know.
As an author, I am required to do a great deal of research. This research resulted in some very interesting facts, which I am sharing with you.
-------
Did You Know About Pearl Harbor and 9/11?
9/11 is sometimes called our new Pearl Harbor. What are some of the similarities that invite such a comparison?
Before answering that question let's establish the following: The attacks on Pearl Harbor and the Twin Towers were two of the biggest attacks in American history!
Here are a few similarities:
1. America was at peace with the people involved right up until the attack.
2. Both attacks came as a complete surprise.
3. Both attacks caused immediate panic.
4. Both attacks changed our sense of security.
5. Both attacks galvanized America.
6. Over 2,000 people were killed in each attack.
7. Impact was felt worldwide.
8. The attacks drew America into a world war.
What about differences?
1. Pearl Harbor was an attack by a country (Japan), while the 9/11 attacks were by a terrorist organization.
2. Pearl Harbor was bombed by Japanese planes, while 9/11 featured attacks by commandeered commercial passenger planes.
3. Japan bombed military targets, while Al-Qaeda bombed high profile civilian targets.
4. The goal of the Japanese attack was to weaken the military strength of the U.S. Navy, while the goal of Al-Qaeda was terror.
5. The war fought against the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan) was from 1941 until 1945 (less than four years), while the war against Al-Qaeda and other terrorist organizations is still going on after fourteen years!
6. World War II was fought mainly in Africa, Europe, and Pacific Ocean, while the War against Terror is fought worldwide, including the Middle East.
There are undoubted many more similarities and differences, but both of these attacks have impacted America far greater than the damage done at Pearl Harbor or the damage done in New York, Pennsylvania, or Arlington, Virginia.
In both cases we have learned or hopefully have learned to never again lower our guard. We must stay vigilant!
On the spiritual level, there is one other difference:
Pearl Harbor presaged a revival that extended far into the 1950s to such an extent that 8 out of 10 people expressed belief that religion can answer "all or most of today's problems." Powerful preaching and teaching of God's Word led the way. Government was less inclined to interfere with the church.
After 9/11 it was not so. Churches filled up and lives changed immediately after the attacks. But a nationwide revival never really materialized. Many people who started attending church in those early days after the attack stuck with it.
Though that was significant, in the years since we have witnessed a weakening of church attendance and of the churches themselves both in doctrine and in commitment. Today the church seems to have lost its way with many pastors not even preaching the Bible anymore. Government now intrudes into the church with alarming increase and success.
PRAY for revival!
As an author, I am required to do a great deal of research. This research resulted in some very interesting facts, which I am sharing with you.
-------
Did You Know About Pearl Harbor and 9/11?
9/11 is sometimes called our new Pearl Harbor. What are some of the similarities that invite such a comparison?
Before answering that question let's establish the following: The attacks on Pearl Harbor and the Twin Towers were two of the biggest attacks in American history!
Here are a few similarities:
1. America was at peace with the people involved right up until the attack.
2. Both attacks came as a complete surprise.
3. Both attacks caused immediate panic.
4. Both attacks changed our sense of security.
5. Both attacks galvanized America.
6. Over 2,000 people were killed in each attack.
7. Impact was felt worldwide.
8. The attacks drew America into a world war.
What about differences?
1. Pearl Harbor was an attack by a country (Japan), while the 9/11 attacks were by a terrorist organization.
2. Pearl Harbor was bombed by Japanese planes, while 9/11 featured attacks by commandeered commercial passenger planes.
3. Japan bombed military targets, while Al-Qaeda bombed high profile civilian targets.
4. The goal of the Japanese attack was to weaken the military strength of the U.S. Navy, while the goal of Al-Qaeda was terror.
5. The war fought against the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan) was from 1941 until 1945 (less than four years), while the war against Al-Qaeda and other terrorist organizations is still going on after fourteen years!
6. World War II was fought mainly in Africa, Europe, and Pacific Ocean, while the War against Terror is fought worldwide, including the Middle East.
There are undoubted many more similarities and differences, but both of these attacks have impacted America far greater than the damage done at Pearl Harbor or the damage done in New York, Pennsylvania, or Arlington, Virginia.
In both cases we have learned or hopefully have learned to never again lower our guard. We must stay vigilant!
On the spiritual level, there is one other difference:
Pearl Harbor presaged a revival that extended far into the 1950s to such an extent that 8 out of 10 people expressed belief that religion can answer "all or most of today's problems." Powerful preaching and teaching of God's Word led the way. Government was less inclined to interfere with the church.
After 9/11 it was not so. Churches filled up and lives changed immediately after the attacks. But a nationwide revival never really materialized. Many people who started attending church in those early days after the attack stuck with it.
Though that was significant, in the years since we have witnessed a weakening of church attendance and of the churches themselves both in doctrine and in commitment. Today the church seems to have lost its way with many pastors not even preaching the Bible anymore. Government now intrudes into the church with alarming increase and success.
PRAY for revival!
November 11, 2014
VETERANS DAY
Today we are celebrating Veterans Day. Teresa and celebrated by going to a local restaurant that was offering free meals to veterans. I like free.
Some communities have held parades to honor veterans. You may have gone to one. I missed one in nearby Punta Gorda because of previously scheduled work. The parade was at the same time and I would have loved to attend. But the point here is that across our nation communities honored their veterans.
As a veteran I appreciate other veterans. You and I have the freedoms we have because of veterans. If you disagree with how your government is being run, you have a veteran to thank; if you voted in the last election (and you should have), you have a veteran to thank.
The list of freedoms we enjoy because of the men and women who served in the military and may have been injured or killed is quite long. Take time and think about your favorite freedoms, then thank a veteran.
If you are a veteran or married to a veteran or a child of a veteran then please pass along my thanks!
But don't wait until Veterans Day to thank a veteran or an active serviceman/servicewoman. Be ready to thank them throughout the year.
Some communities have held parades to honor veterans. You may have gone to one. I missed one in nearby Punta Gorda because of previously scheduled work. The parade was at the same time and I would have loved to attend. But the point here is that across our nation communities honored their veterans.
As a veteran I appreciate other veterans. You and I have the freedoms we have because of veterans. If you disagree with how your government is being run, you have a veteran to thank; if you voted in the last election (and you should have), you have a veteran to thank.
The list of freedoms we enjoy because of the men and women who served in the military and may have been injured or killed is quite long. Take time and think about your favorite freedoms, then thank a veteran.
If you are a veteran or married to a veteran or a child of a veteran then please pass along my thanks!
But don't wait until Veterans Day to thank a veteran or an active serviceman/servicewoman. Be ready to thank them throughout the year.
November 5, 2014
Proofing & Editing
Previously I have written about proofing and editing your book as a general concept. Today I want to delve into editing a little deeper.
My practice is to divide editing into three distinct yet related phases:
Phase 1: Initial editing
Phase 2: Rough draft editing
Phase 3: Final Proofing and editing
Phase 1: Initial Editing
I imagine there are many authors who simply write and don't worry about editing until they have the finished product. I am not saying such a practice is wrong. What I am saying is that I prefer writing a scene or a chapter and then engage in some editing.
This often results in catching errors in grammar and spelling, but more importantly it usually results in additional or changed text making the storyline bigger and stronger. This method works along these lines: I write text (scene or chapter), I review text with the idea of expanding or adding material, and check for grammar and punctuation errors.
I find this a very helpful practice that results in a stronger storyline.
Phase 2: Rough draft editing
When I have completed the first or rough draft of the book I sit down and proof it. While this can result in additional material, the primary purpose is to catch and correct errors. This is me proofing my own work which can lead to errors slipping through.
Even so, I find it a necessary process. While it is a time consuming process and subject to my subconscious mind letting through errors, it does eliminate many errors. I purposely try to read not as the author but as an reader.
Phase 3: Final Proofing & Editing
In this phase I involve others. Over the years the methodology has changed, but I think I prefer first giving the book to one proofreader and then editing the book before I repeat the process with another proofreader. I have used as many as three different people so that in the end four pair of eyes (three proofreaders and myself) have read the work.
While there may still be errors that slip through, it is kept to a minimum. You will notice that I have kept control of the process from the beginning, which would not necessarily be true with a professional proofreader. When you compare my first book with my following books you can see that the errors became fewer and fewer.
One thing to remember, even after doing your best editing the publisher can still commit printing errors. As long as you are dealing with a publisher, traditional or self-publishing, you may have this problem. The only way to eliminate that is by doing your own publishing, but that is another topic.
Editing is a necessary part of writing. I would encourage you to put yourself in as much control as possible. If after following the three phases mentioned here you still want to use a professional editor, do so with the confidence you have rightfully developed by being involved in the editing process.
My practice is to divide editing into three distinct yet related phases:
Phase 1: Initial editing
Phase 2: Rough draft editing
Phase 3: Final Proofing and editing
Phase 1: Initial Editing
I imagine there are many authors who simply write and don't worry about editing until they have the finished product. I am not saying such a practice is wrong. What I am saying is that I prefer writing a scene or a chapter and then engage in some editing.
This often results in catching errors in grammar and spelling, but more importantly it usually results in additional or changed text making the storyline bigger and stronger. This method works along these lines: I write text (scene or chapter), I review text with the idea of expanding or adding material, and check for grammar and punctuation errors.
I find this a very helpful practice that results in a stronger storyline.
Phase 2: Rough draft editing
When I have completed the first or rough draft of the book I sit down and proof it. While this can result in additional material, the primary purpose is to catch and correct errors. This is me proofing my own work which can lead to errors slipping through.
Even so, I find it a necessary process. While it is a time consuming process and subject to my subconscious mind letting through errors, it does eliminate many errors. I purposely try to read not as the author but as an reader.
Phase 3: Final Proofing & Editing
In this phase I involve others. Over the years the methodology has changed, but I think I prefer first giving the book to one proofreader and then editing the book before I repeat the process with another proofreader. I have used as many as three different people so that in the end four pair of eyes (three proofreaders and myself) have read the work.
While there may still be errors that slip through, it is kept to a minimum. You will notice that I have kept control of the process from the beginning, which would not necessarily be true with a professional proofreader. When you compare my first book with my following books you can see that the errors became fewer and fewer.
One thing to remember, even after doing your best editing the publisher can still commit printing errors. As long as you are dealing with a publisher, traditional or self-publishing, you may have this problem. The only way to eliminate that is by doing your own publishing, but that is another topic.
Editing is a necessary part of writing. I would encourage you to put yourself in as much control as possible. If after following the three phases mentioned here you still want to use a professional editor, do so with the confidence you have rightfully developed by being involved in the editing process.
November 1, 2014
BOOK GIVEAWAY
This is just a short blog to announce that I have started a book giveaway. It is pending approval, which I expect momentarily.
Basically, it is a giveaway of up to 10 AUTOGRAPHED COPIES of Perished:The World That Was.
This book, which received excellent reviews, covers the world that existed from Creation to Noah's Flood.
This is an opportunity to get a free autographed copy of the book that started the series.
Basically, it is a giveaway of up to 10 AUTOGRAPHED COPIES of Perished:The World That Was.
This book, which received excellent reviews, covers the world that existed from Creation to Noah's Flood.
This is an opportunity to get a free autographed copy of the book that started the series.
October 29, 2014
Circle of Friends as Proofreaders
You can hardly pick up a book on writing, or read a blog without hearing: "Never do your own proofreading! Leave it to the professionals."
There are usually offered plenty of supporting arguments. You can see this by using Twitter and the hashtag #amwriting.
The most telling argument is that an author knows his/her story and knows how a scene is suppose to be read. The author's mind would therefore tend to overlook errors. For example, a sentence says 'Joe shivered as the temperature dripped below freezing.' In this example the word dripped should have been dropped, but the author might miss this simply because he/she knows it should read dropped and the mind interprets it that way.
This is a serious problem because the whole idea of proofreading is to find and correct errors as well as fine tune the story. A professional would almost certainly discover the error above and provide suggestions for correcting.
But is the problem solely whether you or a professional does the proof reading? I have another suggestion.
First, a definition.
Professional Proofreaders: These are people who will proof your book for a fee. They may have a background in education or be an accomplished author or wordsmith. Being professionals they are governed by ethics and are committed to making your book as good as possible.
The problem with professionals is that they are often expensive and over-priced. Most beginning authors are limited by their own budgets. They simply can't afford such services.
Circle of Friends: Everyone of us have a Circle of Friends. That circle is unique to us. My Circle of Friends is different from yours; in fact, it is different from my wife's. A Circle of Friends may include doctors, lawyers, secretaries, assembly line workers, farmers, and more. It is a vital resource of talent!
Moreover, this Circle of Friends may possibly be representative of your audience. The audience consists of the people you are hoping will buy your book.
This group of people can be used to proofread your book. As friends they will give an honest appraisal of your book, indicating difficult passages, misspelled words, and more. In fact, they may suggest scenes based on their own experiences. Like I said, it is a vital resource!
Perhaps the biggest drawback of using your Circle of Friends to proofread your book is that they may not know the laws of writing. Personally I don't think of this as a big thing. When writing fiction the laws of writing often don't apply. (For example, one law says that you never start a sentence with "And." But in writing you can do this.) Generally speaking leave the laws for the business person or the student.
It has been my experience that using friends as proofreaders is a very effective procedure. I started out writing by doing my own proofreading and the results were less than anticipated. Then I began getting my wife involved and then friends. This resulted in errors being eliminated and new ideas incorporated.
One of the differences between Professionals and Circle of Friends is that Professionals cost money, while friends will help out for very little consideration. One thing I have done is dedicated my books to those who have helped.
But how do you use your Circle of Friends effectively?
There are probably many answers to that question, but I will only give one. And I will do so by sharing how I do it.
I actually combine my own proofreading with that of my Circle of Friends. I select a small number of friends who I think would be willing and have the reading skills required. The actual method goes like this:
I proof the book first, which often leads to additional writings including entire chapters. After I finish proofing and editing the book, I turn it over to my best friend, my wife. She then proofreads the book and turns it back to me to be edited. Then it goes to the next friend and so on.
There is no set number of friends to be used. That is up to your discretion.
I have been very pleased with using my Circle of Friends and am confident their work equals or exceeds a professional. Are there still errors? Of course. No matter whether you use a professional proofreader or your Circle of Friends there will still be errors, including printing errors. The goal is to eliminate as many as possible.
Aside from cost what else makes Circle of Friends preferable to a Professional?
Unless you are hiring a professional service that uses several proofreaders on your book, you normally get one set of eyes on your book. Well trained eyes, to be sure, but only one set. On the other hand, your Circle of Friends means multiple sets of eyes examine your work bringing individual experiences and knowledge to the process.
It can be truly said, The more eyes involved the better.
If all that is true, should you ever use a professional?
Sure, if you can afford one. And I would suggest that you can use a professional along with your Circle of Friends! While I don't use professionals, they are a valuable resource.
I know this blog may have stepped on a toe here or there, so I welcome your response. Do you agree or disagree? Comment below.
There are usually offered plenty of supporting arguments. You can see this by using Twitter and the hashtag #amwriting.
The most telling argument is that an author knows his/her story and knows how a scene is suppose to be read. The author's mind would therefore tend to overlook errors. For example, a sentence says 'Joe shivered as the temperature dripped below freezing.' In this example the word dripped should have been dropped, but the author might miss this simply because he/she knows it should read dropped and the mind interprets it that way.
This is a serious problem because the whole idea of proofreading is to find and correct errors as well as fine tune the story. A professional would almost certainly discover the error above and provide suggestions for correcting.
But is the problem solely whether you or a professional does the proof reading? I have another suggestion.
First, a definition.
Professional Proofreaders: These are people who will proof your book for a fee. They may have a background in education or be an accomplished author or wordsmith. Being professionals they are governed by ethics and are committed to making your book as good as possible.
The problem with professionals is that they are often expensive and over-priced. Most beginning authors are limited by their own budgets. They simply can't afford such services.
Circle of Friends: Everyone of us have a Circle of Friends. That circle is unique to us. My Circle of Friends is different from yours; in fact, it is different from my wife's. A Circle of Friends may include doctors, lawyers, secretaries, assembly line workers, farmers, and more. It is a vital resource of talent!
Moreover, this Circle of Friends may possibly be representative of your audience. The audience consists of the people you are hoping will buy your book.
This group of people can be used to proofread your book. As friends they will give an honest appraisal of your book, indicating difficult passages, misspelled words, and more. In fact, they may suggest scenes based on their own experiences. Like I said, it is a vital resource!
Perhaps the biggest drawback of using your Circle of Friends to proofread your book is that they may not know the laws of writing. Personally I don't think of this as a big thing. When writing fiction the laws of writing often don't apply. (For example, one law says that you never start a sentence with "And." But in writing you can do this.) Generally speaking leave the laws for the business person or the student.
It has been my experience that using friends as proofreaders is a very effective procedure. I started out writing by doing my own proofreading and the results were less than anticipated. Then I began getting my wife involved and then friends. This resulted in errors being eliminated and new ideas incorporated.
One of the differences between Professionals and Circle of Friends is that Professionals cost money, while friends will help out for very little consideration. One thing I have done is dedicated my books to those who have helped.
But how do you use your Circle of Friends effectively?
There are probably many answers to that question, but I will only give one. And I will do so by sharing how I do it.
I actually combine my own proofreading with that of my Circle of Friends. I select a small number of friends who I think would be willing and have the reading skills required. The actual method goes like this:
I proof the book first, which often leads to additional writings including entire chapters. After I finish proofing and editing the book, I turn it over to my best friend, my wife. She then proofreads the book and turns it back to me to be edited. Then it goes to the next friend and so on.
There is no set number of friends to be used. That is up to your discretion.
I have been very pleased with using my Circle of Friends and am confident their work equals or exceeds a professional. Are there still errors? Of course. No matter whether you use a professional proofreader or your Circle of Friends there will still be errors, including printing errors. The goal is to eliminate as many as possible.
Aside from cost what else makes Circle of Friends preferable to a Professional?
Unless you are hiring a professional service that uses several proofreaders on your book, you normally get one set of eyes on your book. Well trained eyes, to be sure, but only one set. On the other hand, your Circle of Friends means multiple sets of eyes examine your work bringing individual experiences and knowledge to the process.
It can be truly said, The more eyes involved the better.
If all that is true, should you ever use a professional?
Sure, if you can afford one. And I would suggest that you can use a professional along with your Circle of Friends! While I don't use professionals, they are a valuable resource.
I know this blog may have stepped on a toe here or there, so I welcome your response. Do you agree or disagree? Comment below.
October 22, 2014
Book Review: The Secret on Ararat
Today I am reviewing:
Book Title: The Secret of Ararat
Author: Tim Lahaye & Bob Phillips
Year: 2004
Publisher: Bantam Dell
ISBN: 0-553-38350-7
Rating: 5 stars
The second book of the Babylon Rising series picked up right where Babylon Rising left off. If you like End Times fiction, which I do, then this is an excellent book. In fact, the Babylon Rising series is exciting reading.
In this book we once again meet Professor Michael Murphy. In the previous book he lost his wife to the murderous hands of Talon. This killer reappears as Michael's adversary. That conflict on its own could probably carry the story, but we have several subplots going on, such as the Seven which is a secret group manipulating events to bring the Anti-Christ to power. There is also the journey to Ararat to search for the Ark.
While there are several subplots they all tend to bring a cohesive story together that I found gripping. Will Michael find love again? Will he discover the Ark? What will happen when he and Talon meet again? These and other questions are answered in gripping detail.
Still recovering from my heart attack I find myself getting tired easily, although that is changing for the better. I would read the book, set it down to rest my eyes and pick it up again. That's the kind of draw the book has.
This book deserves a five star rating because it is a well written book covering Murphy's complex relationship with Isis, his mysterious challenger named Methuselah, his deadly encounters with Talon, and the Ark itself. All of these elements could easily be complete stories of their own, but the authors did a masterful job of bringing them together.
You can think of the 5 stars as 1 star for each important element:
1st star: believable
2nd star: plenty of action
3rd star: emotion
4th star: drama
5th star: timely
If you haven't already read this book I would encourage you to do so.
Book Title: The Secret of Ararat
Author: Tim Lahaye & Bob Phillips
Year: 2004
Publisher: Bantam Dell
ISBN: 0-553-38350-7
Rating: 5 stars
The second book of the Babylon Rising series picked up right where Babylon Rising left off. If you like End Times fiction, which I do, then this is an excellent book. In fact, the Babylon Rising series is exciting reading.
In this book we once again meet Professor Michael Murphy. In the previous book he lost his wife to the murderous hands of Talon. This killer reappears as Michael's adversary. That conflict on its own could probably carry the story, but we have several subplots going on, such as the Seven which is a secret group manipulating events to bring the Anti-Christ to power. There is also the journey to Ararat to search for the Ark.
While there are several subplots they all tend to bring a cohesive story together that I found gripping. Will Michael find love again? Will he discover the Ark? What will happen when he and Talon meet again? These and other questions are answered in gripping detail.
Still recovering from my heart attack I find myself getting tired easily, although that is changing for the better. I would read the book, set it down to rest my eyes and pick it up again. That's the kind of draw the book has.
This book deserves a five star rating because it is a well written book covering Murphy's complex relationship with Isis, his mysterious challenger named Methuselah, his deadly encounters with Talon, and the Ark itself. All of these elements could easily be complete stories of their own, but the authors did a masterful job of bringing them together.
You can think of the 5 stars as 1 star for each important element:
1st star: believable
2nd star: plenty of action
3rd star: emotion
4th star: drama
5th star: timely
If you haven't already read this book I would encourage you to do so.
October 16, 2014
Noah's Ark
We live in an amazing generation!
Why do I say that? Not because of space research, which does excite me. Nor because of a strong economy, which doesn't exist right now.
I think we live in an amazing generation because of the technology that surrounds us. Think about it. In the past authors had quill pens, only a few publishers, and not much else other than their imagination.
Today we have super computers, the Internet, travel, and the ability to do extensive research. All this plus an impressive array of forums, experts, etc. that we can use as resources. We can even choose how and who we want to be published by and how long we want to wait.
Yes, we live in an amazing generation.
My first book, Refuge: The Genesis Chronicles was published in 2003. I was thinking of rewriting the book, but during the rewrite I had a better idea. This is the perfect platform for me to address one of my favorite subjects; Noah's Ark. So, instead of rewriting the original book, I have redirected my efforts to concentrate on the Ark itself with more detail yet within the overall story. Similar to the first book, yet with major changes.
In case you are unaware of it, the Ark was and is a fascinating subject. In its day it would have been classified as one of the greatest wonders of the world, a technological miracle. Its story has been told in the Bible and spread to virtually every land on earth. People either believe it or deny it, but it is still relevant to this very day.
Some of you know about my series Did You Know. Well, in conjunction with this new book, it will be restarted soon. I am thinking of a series of articles on the Ark itself. Instead of one article trying to answer all questions, I would write and post an article on each question. For example, How many animals could the Ark carry?
These articles would be longer and perhaps deeper.
What do you think?
Why do I say that? Not because of space research, which does excite me. Nor because of a strong economy, which doesn't exist right now.
I think we live in an amazing generation because of the technology that surrounds us. Think about it. In the past authors had quill pens, only a few publishers, and not much else other than their imagination.
Today we have super computers, the Internet, travel, and the ability to do extensive research. All this plus an impressive array of forums, experts, etc. that we can use as resources. We can even choose how and who we want to be published by and how long we want to wait.
Yes, we live in an amazing generation.
My first book, Refuge: The Genesis Chronicles was published in 2003. I was thinking of rewriting the book, but during the rewrite I had a better idea. This is the perfect platform for me to address one of my favorite subjects; Noah's Ark. So, instead of rewriting the original book, I have redirected my efforts to concentrate on the Ark itself with more detail yet within the overall story. Similar to the first book, yet with major changes.
In case you are unaware of it, the Ark was and is a fascinating subject. In its day it would have been classified as one of the greatest wonders of the world, a technological miracle. Its story has been told in the Bible and spread to virtually every land on earth. People either believe it or deny it, but it is still relevant to this very day.
Some of you know about my series Did You Know. Well, in conjunction with this new book, it will be restarted soon. I am thinking of a series of articles on the Ark itself. Instead of one article trying to answer all questions, I would write and post an article on each question. For example, How many animals could the Ark carry?
These articles would be longer and perhaps deeper.
What do you think?
October 11, 2014
A New Start
I am writing today's blog while recuperating from my recent heart attack. Apologies to my readers for not writing sooner, but getting back my mental focus has been a much slower process than the physical rehab.
Hopefully today's article means I am back. I certainly intend to pick up the pace a bit.
In line with this goal I have begun reading again with the idea of doing book reviews. It is my hope to do a review a month, perhaps more often later. I chose The Secret on Ararat for this project. While I have read it before, I have never done a review, so the whole process should be interesting.
Prior to my heart attack my wife and I co-founded our new business: T & R Independent Books. The concept here is that we will control every facet of writing whether it be writing, editing, publishing, or marketing. It involves taking over the online bookstore that I had set up to market my books. Now it will be the marketing arm for both my (R. Frederick Riddle) and my wife's (Tress Riddle) books.
T & R currently plans to publish anywhere from Fall 2014 to Spring 2015:
* An Young Adult mystery novel by Tress
* Dead Eye Will (print version) by R. Frederick
* The Ark (tentative title) by R. Frederick
Another project that I am working on is not directly related to T & R. This is the third book of my series The World That Was. Hopefully I will complete and have published by America Star this year. Speaking in terms of the future I eventually plan to purchase my book rights from America Star and republish under T & R.
So please keep an eye on this blog. We are only beginning!
Hopefully today's article means I am back. I certainly intend to pick up the pace a bit.
In line with this goal I have begun reading again with the idea of doing book reviews. It is my hope to do a review a month, perhaps more often later. I chose The Secret on Ararat for this project. While I have read it before, I have never done a review, so the whole process should be interesting.
Prior to my heart attack my wife and I co-founded our new business: T & R Independent Books. The concept here is that we will control every facet of writing whether it be writing, editing, publishing, or marketing. It involves taking over the online bookstore that I had set up to market my books. Now it will be the marketing arm for both my (R. Frederick Riddle) and my wife's (Tress Riddle) books.
T & R currently plans to publish anywhere from Fall 2014 to Spring 2015:
* An Young Adult mystery novel by Tress
* Dead Eye Will (print version) by R. Frederick
* The Ark (tentative title) by R. Frederick
Another project that I am working on is not directly related to T & R. This is the third book of my series The World That Was. Hopefully I will complete and have published by America Star this year. Speaking in terms of the future I eventually plan to purchase my book rights from America Star and republish under T & R.
So please keep an eye on this blog. We are only beginning!
