Laurisa White Reyes's Blog, page 97

HOW TO WRITE A REAL PAGE-TURNER (Part 2)

The sub-title of this post is "5 Sure Fire Fun-Suckers." This is what my son calls books that are too boring to read all the way through.
As authors, we don't want our books to be boring. We want readers to feel excited about our stories, to keep turning those pages. So what can we do to make our books real page-turners? Well, first we should know what NOT to do.
Here are the top 5 fun-suckers:
1.  EXCESSIVELY LONG CHAPTERS
My 11-year-old daughter was recently assigned a Newbery Award winning book to read for class. It's a great book. I know because I've read it. But she is slogging through it, groaning the whole way. I asked her why she didn't like the book. Her answer:  "The chapters are so looooooong!"
While many readers do enjoy long, detailed chapters, the fact is that shorter chapters create the illusion, if not reality, of a faster read. Every time a reader gets to the end of a chapter he feels like he's accomplished something, that progress is being made. When the chapters are short, a reader will be more willing to read on into the next chapter, and the next.
2.  WAKING AND SLEEPING
When writing scenes, new writers often fall into the trap of starting a scene when a character wakes up and ending it when they go to sleep. Boring. In essence, if your character falls asleep, so will your reader. This also holds true for going unconscious.  Nothing is more aggravating for a reader than when there has been all this build up to a climatic moment only to have the protagonist black out and wake up when the action is over. Don't cheat your reader that way.
3.  TIDY CHAPTER ENDINGS
While closure is good at the end of a novel, too much closer at the end of chapters creates the sense that this is a good point to stop reading. Page-turners do not have tidy chapter endings. They are messy. They are exciting. They leave you hanging.  The goal is for readers to reach the end of a chapter and feel compelled to turn the page to see what happens next. We will discuss this in greater detail when I post Part 3 of this series.
4.  UNVARYING PACE
Reading a novel is not like long distance running, where the runner sets his pace and keeps that same rhythm for miles and miles. Nor is it a sprint to the finish line, one quick heart-pounding dash. If a story is slow and detailed and thoughtful all the way through, the reader will get bored. But the reader will also get burned out if there is nothing but action-packed thrill on every single page. You want to vary the pace, with some chapters being fast and exciting, and others slower and more introspective. These slower scenes allow your reader to catch their breath, so to speak, to recharge for the next adrenalin surge.
5.  TOO MUCH DESCRIPTION
Long ago authors used to be paid on the word. The longer the book, the more money they earned. So books were tomes of lengthy descriptions that really had nothing to do with the plot. Times have changed. We live a fast-paced society where we are used to getting what we want right now. Many readers expect to get to the heart of the story without having to slog through pages of unnecessary description. Of course some description is important to set the scene, but where authors once would expound about a woman's dress or the architecture of a building for pages on end, now a line or two, or even is some cases a few words will do just as well. Leave the rest up to your readers' imagination.
So there you have them. 5 Sure Fire Fun-Suckers, and some tips on how to avoid them.

What are some of the most boring books you've ever read?

BOOK REVIEW: TERESA OF THE NEW WORLD by Sharman Apt Russell

 Marvelous Middle Grade Monday is sponsored by Shannon Messenger at Ramblings of a Wannabe Scribe . For a complete list of today's participants, visit HERE .
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TERESA OF THE NEW WORLD
Sharman Apt Russell
Yucca Publishing
Ages 12+

In 1528, the real-life conquistador Cabeza de Vaca shipwrecked in the New World where he lived for eight years as a slave, trader, and shaman. In this lyrical weaving of history and myth, the adventurer takes his young daughter Teresa from her home in Texas to walk westward into the setting sun, their travels accompanied by miracles--visions and prophecies. But when Teresa reaches the outposts of New Spain, life is not what her father had promised.
As a kitchen servant in the household of a Spanish official, Teresa grows up estranged from the magic she knew as a child, when she could speak to the earth and listen to animals. When a new epidemic of measles devastates the area, the sixteen-year-old sets off on her own journey, befriending a Mayan were-jaguar who cannot control his shape-shifting and a warhorse abandoned by his Spanish owner. Now Teresa moves through a land stalked by Plague: smallpox as well as measles, typhus, and scarlet fever.
Soon it becomes clear that Teresa and her friends are being manipulated and driven by forces they do not understand. To save herself and others, Teresa will find herself listening again to the earth, sinking underground, swimming through limestone and fossil, opening to the power of root and stone. As she searches for her place in the New World, she will travel farther and deeper than she had ever imagined.
MY REVIEW:
This book was recommended to me by my professor, as it was written  by a friend of hers. I like this professor so I agreed to check it out. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect, but as I started reading about de Vaca and his daughter, I was completely drawn into the story. Russell's writing is a lyrical blend of mythology, history, and magical realism. Teresa's world is so vivid, I felt as though I had stepped into a painting. The book has the feel of legend, and the author incorporates the mystical elements so effectively as to convince the reader that these elements might really be as much a part of history as de Vaca himself.

While I do question whether the literary style of the writing would actually appeal to middle grade readers or adolescents, the vocabulary and subject matter are certainly appropriate for younger readers. Overall, Teresa of the New World would make a fine addition to any home or school library, and would especially complement curriculum about the European exploration of the New World.


CONTENT RATING:
Profanity:  NoneViolence:  MildSexuality:  None

HOW TO WRITE A REAL PAGE-TURNER (Part I)

A while back I gave a presentation at the Kanab Writers Conference in Southern Utah on "How To Write A Real-Page Turner" and thought it might be fun to pass along some of the key elements I shared there to you.
So to start with, WHAT IS A PAGE-TURNER?
This term is probably one of the most sought-after compliments an author can receive about our books. It means we have succeeded in keeping our readers engaged from the first page to the last, and that they have connected with our story in a way that is both satisfying and invigorating. Books like that are never forgotten, and are most likely to be the ones readers will rave to their friends about.
Here are some quotes from reviews of page-turners, quotes we authors all want to hear about our books:

"I just couldn't put it down!"
"I have to know what happens next."
"Kept my attention to the last page."
"A book I would definitely read again."
And my personal favorite because it came from a review about The Last Enchanter...

"Holy Moly! Read this book now!"
Now you may be thinking that writing a page-turner is only for specific genres such as thrillers, action-adventure, or horror.  If you think that you could never write one because you are write romance, or picture books, or even non-fiction, think again.
Page-turners transcend genre and target audiences. The Da Vinci Code, an action-packed suspense/mystery, is definitely a page-turner. But so are Devil in the White City by Erik Larsen, a non-fiction narrative about the history of the 1898 World's Fair and America's first serial killer; The Hunger Games , a young adult dystopian about kids who kill each other in an arena; Wonder by R.J. Palacio, a contemporary middle grade novel about a boy with a facial deformity; The Help , a historical novel about the racial tensions of 1960s south; and If You Give A Mouse A Cookie, a picture book about a very demanding little mouse.  In other words, it doesn't matter what kind of book you are writing or who you are writing it for, you CAN write a real page-turner.
Not every book has to be a page-turner. There are plenty of wonderful, slow-burning books out there, and many readers enjoy the kind of tomes they can snuggle up with in front of a cozy fire, or pace their read over several weeks or months. If that's the sort of book you want to write, then read no further.

MMGM: IN THE LIBRARY WITH MIDDLE SHELF

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday is sponsored by Shannon Messenger at Ramblings of a Wannabe Scribe . For a complete list of today's participants, visit HERE .

In the LibrarywithMIDDLE SHELF MAGAZINE

THE MAGIC IS IN YOU!

When I do my school assemblies, I talk about how I always dreamed of being a writer, but the reason why it took so long for me to get around to doing it is that I didn't believe I could. I didn't think I had it in me to be a an author, and maybe I didn't at first. But I worked hard at developing my talents and overcame many obstacles to finally achieve my goals. I bring with me a big tote bag and then I ask the kids what tools magicians need to do magic. I always get the same answers, and I'm prepared for them.
"A magic book!"
"A cape!"
"A wand!"
"A magic hat!"

And I pull each item out my bag. Then I explain that in my book, Marcus doesn't use any of these things to do magic. Instead, he uses a gift given to him by his teacher: a key. Just an ordinary key. But then I tell the kids that they don't need any of those tools either, and they don't even need a key. Everything they need to do magic is inside of them. Once they find that special something, which is nothing more than believing in themselves and the willingness to do whatever it takes to succeed and never quit, then they can do anything.  That is magic.A while back I presented this to the 5th grade at Sunland Elementary in California, which just happens to be the school I attended as a child. A few weeks letter I received a stack of thank you notes in the mail from the students. One in particular really touched my heart. It was from a girl who had played in her school's basketball game later that day. She missed shot after shot and started to get discouraged. But then she remembered what I had told her, to never give up. She tried once more, made the shot, and won the game. That is one child I know will live her dreams.So, when things get difficult for you as they will for all of from time to time, remember that the magic is in you, and keep on going.

$250 CASH GIVEAWAY - SPLASH INTO SUMMER!!!

An Amazing Group of Authors & Bloggers have joined with me to bring you 1 fabulous prize!! Start your summer with a Splash! We're giving away $250 in Paypal Cash.


Giveaway Details $250 Paypal Cash Ends 6/20/15 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author, bloggers and publishers on the sponsor list. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  Scroll down to enter!

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Summer is one of my favorite times of the year because I get to read more than usual--at the beach, by the pool, while the kids are outside playing. I've got lots of great books on my TBR list. If you're still thinking about what books you'd like to read this summer, can I make a few suggestions?



Camp Omigosh                  The Rock of Ivanore         The Last Enchanter
  The Awakening                  Soulless                            Contact 
The Boy Who Loved Fire         Soul Crossed               The Crystal Keeper
Owlet                        Martian Goods                  Twist My Charm
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Splash Into Summer $250 Cash Giveaway June 1st to 20thSponsor ListI Am A ReaderKrysten Lindsay Hager, AuthorHeather Gray, AuthorThe Lovely BooksErin RichardsThe Page UnboundStacy Claflin, AuthorSylvie FoxBeth YarnallSerena ClarkeLeahSay's ViewsUnshelfishThe Discerning ReaderKimber Leigh WheatonRaven Haired GirlAuthor Deb AtwoodMel's ShelvesJulie Coulter BellonBooks R UsAuthor Ednah WaltersAubrey Wynne: Romantasy Through the AgesAuthor Pauline CreedenBella Street's Time Travel RomanceBonnie Blythe Pure RomanceSimple WyrdingsGlistering Bs BlogAnn Swann Suspense & MoreLise McClendon - AuthorBunny ReviewsTamara GillDiana's Book Reviewslori's reading cornerLaurisa White ReyesKelly's Lucky YouLeisure ReadsHome Is Where the Wine Is Book BlogWalking on BookshelvesDS Venetta - MG Garden Adventure FictionChicas Love to ReadRockin' Book ReviewsCraves the Angst Book BlogRachelle J. ChristensenLaurie Here - Book ReviewsThe Authors of the Falling in Deep CollectionStart PublishingWhiskey Creek PressAuthor Inger Iversen 

BOOK REVIEW: SHADOW AND BONE by Leigh Bardugo

SHADOW AND BONE
Leigh Bardugo
Square Fish
Ages 12 - 17
Genre: High Fantasy


Surrounded by enemies, the once-great nation of Ravka has been torn in two by the Shadow Fold, a swath of near impenetrable darkness crawling with monsters who feast on human flesh. Now its fate may rest on the shoulders of one lonely refugee.
Alina Starkov has never been good at anything. But when her regiment is attacked on the Fold and her best friend is brutally injured, Alina reveals a dormant power that saves his life--a power that could be the key to setting her war-ravaged country free. Wrenched from everything she knows, Alina is whisked away to the royal court to be trained as a member of the Grisha, the magical elite led by the mysterious Darkling.
Yet nothing in this lavish world is what it seems. With darkness looming and an entire kingdom depending on her untamed power, Alina will have to confront the secrets of the Grisha . . . and the secrets of her heart.Shadow and Bone is the first installment in Leigh Bardugo's Grisha Trilogy.
MY REVIEW:
I've had a signed copy of this on my shelf for three years. Never got around to reading it. So I finally downloaded a copy from Audible and listened to it on my iPod. While I struggled to get through the first half of the book, the second half got more exciting. And I did finally get "hooked" and enjoyed the rest of the story. Now having finished the whole thing, I can recommend it with confidence. It's a good story--think "Harry Potter" meets "Divergent" set in Russia. What sets Shadow and Bone apart from other stories in the genre is the Russian setting, which gives it an interesting flavor and some unique creatures and language. I like how the "bad guy" isn't really clear until closer to the end of the story. The romance is present but not heavy-handed, and the story is well-written and easy to follow. Overall, it's the kind of story you can curl with on the couch late at night, or on the sand at the beach. A great summer read.


CONTENT RATING:
Profanity:  NoneViolence:  ModerateSexuality:  Mild

TARGET THE TRENDS - OR DON'T

There’s a lot of talk about trends in the publishing world, especially within the umbrella of speculative fiction. Harry Potter resuscitated high fantasy and kidlit. Following close on HP’s heels was the paranormal romance explosion, which spawned endless Twilight read-alikes. Then there was The Hunger Games and the all-consuming fascination with dystopian (and violent) fiction for teens. In the world of children’s literature in particular, (As a children’s book author, I admit that I am less familiar with the trends of adult literature) rumors abound of what the next “big” thing will be. Mermaids? Science fiction? Horror?

Too many writers try too hard to keep up with or get ahead of these rumored trends. They write what’s hot now, hoping to ride on the coattails of the current blockbuster. A few do succeed, though these books rarely come close to achieving the level of recognition or success of the books that inspired them. For other authors trying to catch the next trend wave, there are several flaws in this strategy.
First, what is hot today will be cold tomorrow. Trends come and go. So by the time a writer manages to complete a manuscript, thoroughly revise it, AND (if lucky) find a publisher, a year (or two, or three) will have passed, and the genre that once dominated the market will have moved aside to make room for some new bestselling trend.

Second, trends are unpredictable. Even with all those rumors flying around, it’s anybody’s guess what the next big hit will be. The top-selling titles of recent years were all surprises. How are blockbusters born? Someone writes a phenomenal book that is different than anything else on the market. They manage to land a good publishing and marketing contract (although even this is not always necessary. Consider the popularity of Wool by Hugh Howey and 50 Shades of Grey by E.L. James, which began as self-published endeavors), then lots of people read it, like it, and tell all their friends about it.
So, then how do you write the next bestseller?

You don't.

Don’t write to the trends. Don’t write books that are just “like” another book. Don’t write something you are sure will be the next big hit. Doing so will, more likely than not, land your manuscript at the bottom of a lot of slush piles.

What should you do?

Write your story, whatever that is, and write it well. If you like mermaids, or vampires, or wizards. Fine. If you’d rather write a western even though no one is buying them right now, then do it. Or maybe you really like contemporary romance, which may never make you a million dollars, but that’s where your heart is. Then write it.

Some editors and agents may indeed be hunting for the next best-seller, but all of them are searching for plenty of stories that will simply sell. If you have a story to tell, no matter what the current trend may be, you need to tell it. And then leave the rest to fate. You never know.



http://mycrazzycorner.blogspot.com/

MMGM: IN THE LIBRARY WITH MIDDLE SHELF

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday is sponsored by Shannon Messenger at Ramblings of a Wannabe Scribe . For a complete list of today's participants, visit HERE .

In the LibrarywithMIDDLE SHELF MAGAZINE
 

BOOK REVIEW: ASYLUM by Madeleine Roux

ASYLUM
Madeleine Roux
HarperCollins
Ages 14-17

Madeleine Roux's New York Times bestselling Asylum is a thrilling and creepy photo-illustrated novel that Publishers Weekly called "a strong YA debut that reveals the enduring impact of buried trauma on a place." Featuring found photographs from real asylums and filled with chilling mystery and page-turning suspense, Asylum is a horror story that treads the line between genius and insanity, perfect for fans of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children.
For sixteen-year-old Dan Crawford, the New Hampshire College Prep program is the chance of a lifetime. Except that when Dan arrives, he finds that the usual summer housing has been closed, forcing students to stay in the crumbling Brookline Dorm—formerly a psychiatric hospital. As Dan and his new friends Abby and Jordan start exploring Brookline's twisty halls and hidden basement, they uncover disturbing secrets about what really went on here . . . secrets that link Dan and his friends to the asylum's dark past. Because Brookline was no ordinary mental hospital, and there are some secrets that refuse to stay buried.
MY REVIEW:
I had just finished reading Ms. Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, which I liked, and was browsing a table display at Barnes & Noble when I spotted this. I'd heard good things about it, and it had creepy pictures like Riggs' book, so I figured why not?
I don't seem the type to like creepy books, but I do. And Asylum is deliciously creepy. It starts off kind of "normal," three new friends at summer school where the dorms are located in an old abandoned mental hospital where the Warden once performed horrible operations on the criminally insane. The story sets up easily as we learn about these kids. No biggie. But then little by little, things start to get weird. By half way into it, I was completely hooked.
A tantalizing blend of murder and the supernatural, Asylum is sure to keep you up at night...turning pages and looking over your shoulder.


CONTENT RATING:
Profanity:  ModerateSexuality:  Mild (a little kissing, nothing more)Violence:  Heavy (yep, dead people)
P.S. LOOKING FOR MORE CREEPY READS? CHECK OUT THESE...
Forgotten by Cat Patrick
Fracture by Megan Miranda
Hysteria by Megan Miranda
Possess by Gretchen McNeil
Slide by Jill Hathaway

 Starters by Lissa Price

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

The Gardener by S.A. Bodeen

 The Girl with All the Gifts by M.R. Carey

The Monstromologist by Rick Yancey
 The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
Tomorrow Wendell by R.M. Ridley