Peter Lopez Jr.'s Blog: Xulon Press Blog , page 2

10 Unique Tips for Describing Facial Expressions in Writing

Describing facial expressions can be one of the most challenging aspects of writing for any author. As Christian writers, it’s essential to convey emotions in ways that deeply resonate with readers and bring characters to life. When done well, describing facial expressions helps readers feel connected to the story, making characters relatable and authentic. This guide will provide you with 10 facial expressions and other small gestures to help you enhance your storytelling and show emotions in a vivid, impactful way. The Eyes Have It Eyes are often said to be the windows to the soul, which makes them one of the most expressive parts of the face. Subtle glances. Piercing stares. The way you describe eye movements speaks volumes about a character’s emotions. Here are three ways you can describe the eyes: Lips Speak More Than Words Lips aren’t just for dialogue—they can also communicate a wealth of emotions through subtle movements. A smirk, a quiver, or tightly pressed lips often reveal characters’ inner thoughts without saying a word. Here are three ways you can describe the lips: The Subtle Power of Eyebrows Eyebrows enhance any description of facial expressions because they depth and nuance to a character’s emotions. Whether raised in surprise or furrowed in focus, eyebrows provide more visual cues to your readers. I’ve included three examples of how you can describe the eyebrows: Nose Details: Beyond Wrinkling The nose might seem insignificant, but small movements like flaring nostrils or a scrunched bridge adds texture to your descriptions. If you don’t typically pay attention to these smaller facial movements, I have an exercise for you. Take an hour and sit somewhere public with a notebook and pen. Spend your time focusing only on the smaller movements people make with their faces and write what you see. Now, here are a few examples for small nose movements: Cheek Reactions: Dimples, Blushes, and Tics Cheeks are surprisingly expressive. Dimples deepen. Cheeks blush with embarrassment. All these little gestures of the face can reveal a range of emotions. Take a look at the three examples below and think about the type of emotions they reveal: Tension in the Jaw The jaw signals stress, anger, or determination in our own lives, so why not also use it as an essential facial feature to describe characters’ emotions to your readers? These small gestures allow readers to connect with characters’; it’s what makes them more relatable. Here, take a look at some examples: Forehead: Wrinkles and Lines of Emotion Just like us, a character’s forehead often reflects their internal struggles, from furrowed brows to a smooth, calm expression. Our foreheads do a lot of silent communicating, so work those details into your writing. Here are some examples: Smile Variations A smile communicates a range of emotions, including joy and deception. Smile variations make your character’s emotions more believable. Take a look at these examples Tears Without Saying ‘Tears’ You don’t always have to explicitly mention tears when showing sadness or joy in your writing. Wet eyes, blinking, or other gestures can paint a similar, vivid picture. Take a look at these examples, which evokes emotion in you? Subtle Gestures to Enhance Descriptions Small gestures and body language can amplify the emotional impact of your descriptions and provide readers with a deeper understanding of a character’s state of mind. Take a look: Final Thoughts Describing facial expressions is an important part of creating relatable characters and engaging storytelling that will keep your readers’ attention hooked on your book. By using these unique techniques mentioned in this article, you can craft vivid, emotion-filled scenes. Lean into your God-given creativity and explore how to show emotions in your writing with authenticity and grace. By honing this skill, you’ll enhance your storytelling and draw readers closer to the heart of your message. Pin It!

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25 Reading Challenges for 2025: Fun and Creative Book Goals

Beginning a new year is always a great way to start fresh and accomplish those goals you’ve been dreaming of achieving. If you’re an avid reader, it is safe to assume one of your goals for 2025 is to read more, yet with so many books out there and so many books already on your TBR list, how do you decide what to read next? How about we help with 25 reading challenges for 2025? Here’s the challenge: Read 25 books in 2025! This particular challenge offers specific requisites of 25 different types of books to help expand your library and get you reading books you have never read or never even thought to pick up and read. You are highly encouraged to read books that you have not read before (with the exception of certain challenges that may ask you to reread a book), but we also encourage you to complete this challenge in a way you feel most comfortable. While certain challenges could be combined into one book, our only requirement is no double dipping! Be sure to read a different book for each challenge, so by the end of the year, you will have read at least 25 books. But don’t stop there. If you wish to continue reading past the 25 books, keep going! The 2025 Reading Challenge List Bonus Challenges for the Ambitious Reader For those of you who finish the original 25 reading challenges for 2025 and wish to push the limit and read even more, here are five extra challenges that will definitely add to your total page count read for the year: Recommended Books to Help You Get Started While this challenge is meant for you to decide what books you would like to read and what books catch your attention, here are some personal recommendations that you could use toward a number of the challenges (including the bonus challenges) if you are looking for something new or are stumped on a particular challenge: Keep Track of Your Reading Progress I will be taking on this challenge, as well, and will even shoot to complete the bonus challenges. Totaling all of the books in the challenge as well as the bonus challenge up, we’re looking at a good 55+ books read in the new year (or 25 books if you decide to stick with the traditional challenge). While either number can seem daunting, we can do this! Keep track of your progress and let us know how you did at the end of the year. But most importantly, have fun! 

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6 Proven Strategies to Crush Your Writing Productivity Goals This Year

It’s a brand-new year, and we all know what that means: New Year’s resolutions! After we’ve shed our Christmas sweaters and retired our trees, we can gear up for a fresh start. If you’re a writer, you probably have some kind of writing productivity goals on your list. You might want to finally start your book, get your ideas down on paper, or carve out some time from your busy schedule to write. But any writing project can feel daunting, and if you’re anything like me, you might get easily overwhelmed by a looming task or ambitious goal. We have these great ideas, but how do we make them a reality? These six actionable tips will help you prioritize and reach your writing goals while avoiding the dreaded February fatigue. 1. Reflect on the Past Year Take a moment to think about this past year. What made it difficult to prioritize your writing goals? What got in the way of you starting your book? What obstacles did you run into? For me? I’m often guilty of getting excited about an idea, then making a goal that’s too big to reasonably reach. This usually sends me into burnout and disappointment. Once you’ve figured out your own common pitfalls and obstacles, write them down. If you know what might get in your way, you can do your best to plan around it. Then, reflect on what went well. Think of your best success story when it comes to reaching your goals. What helped you get there? A personal list of goal-making dos and don’ts will help you make resolutions that work for you. 2. Make SMART Writing Goals So, what makes a goal good or bad? Like I mentioned before, a “bad” goal might be one that’s too big. If your writing goal is too ambitious, vague, or hard to measure, then it’ll be really hard to keep up with it. Good goals should be: For example, maybe your goal is to write an entire book this year. This goal is too vague, and it might not be attainable. It doesn’t specify how you’re going to do it, nor does it break your goal into measurable steps. Instead, start with a goal like this one: “Write a 1,000-word introduction by this Saturday.” This goal is specific, measurable, and attainable. Once you have a few good goals, don’t forget to write them down! 3. Create a Writing Schedule One of the most valuable tools for reaching your writing productivity goals is a writing schedule. Let’s say your end goal is to finish your book this year. On its own, this goal is too big. But you can use a writing schedule to organize your smaller goals. To create a writing schedule for the year: Create a physical copy of your writing schedule and keep it somewhere visible. Seeing your goals daily can motivate you to stay on track. 4. Stay Accountable to Your Writing Productivity Goals An often-forgotten part of making and keeping goals is accountability. It can be a game-changer for staying motivated. Ask someone to hold you accountable for your goals; it could be your spouse, a family member, or a friend. Have them check in with you regularly. Share your writing successes and struggles with them. Some writers even take to social media to share their progress and updates on their books. Whether it’s online or in person, having a support system can make all the difference. 5. Join a Writing Group for Support For a writer, there’s no better support system than a group of fellow writers. Consider joining a local writing group or an online community. Writing groups are great for: Being part of a writing community can provide a reliable sounding board for your ideas and a source of inspiration. Staying connected with other writers—or even reading their work—can help you stay on track with your goals. 6. Be Patient and Celebrate Small Wins It’s hard to predict how your goals will pan out, so don’t be too hard on yourself—especially when life throws you a curveball. Evaluating and adjusting your goals is a normal part of the writing process. Check your writing schedule regularly and make sure it’s still working for you. If you aren’t progressing as planned, that’s okay! Adjust your goals to make them more attainable. And don’t forget to celebrate your wins—no matter how small! Decide how you’ll treat yourself whenever you reach a goal. For me, the bigger the goal, the bigger the celebration. These rewards can give you an extra boost of motivation to keep going. Final Thoughts Follow these tips, and you’ll be more than ready for a fresh start and a productive year of writing. With the right mindset, a solid writing schedule, and a support system, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve. Need more help reaching your writing productivity goals? Use the 1-3-5 Rule to start meeting and exceeding your goals today! Good luck, and happy writing!

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Kickstart 2025: 10 Tips for Your Freshest Start Year

Now is the perfect opportunity to kickstart 2025 with fresh goals, exciting activities, and new habits that set the tone for a fulfilling year ahead. While every day offers a chance for a fresh start, there’s something uniquely inspiring about the clean slate that comes with a brand-new year. Maybe this is the year you finally sign up for that cooking class you’ve been dreaming about or plan a visit to the state park that’s been on your bucket list. If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that life is precious, and now is the time to go after the experiences and achievements that truly matter. Here are 10 practical tips to help you kickstart 2025 and make it your best year yet. 1. Try Something New: Make a List of Activities If there’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to try or a skill you’re eager to improve, kickstart 2025 by writing it down! Create a list of new activities or experiences you’d love to explore this year. Whether it’s learning a new language, taking a virtual cooking class, or trying a trending hobby like pottery or mindfulness journaling, jot it all down. Keep your list somewhere visible, like your desk or fridge, and check off each activity as you complete it. By the end of the year, you’ll have a tangible record of your growth and adventures. 2. Tidy Up: Clean Problem Areas in Your Home and Office We all have those messy spots that seem to collect random items—desk drawers, closets, or even that infamous junk drawer in the kitchen. Take time to clean out these problem areas and give every item a proper home. A clean and organized space isn’t just visually satisfying; it also creates mental clarity and provides a safe environment for creativity to thrive. 3. Declutter Your Digital Life Kickstart 2025 with a digital refresh! Delete unused social media accounts to prevent potential hacking. Clear out old emails, unsubscribe from spam, and organize your inbox into folders. Finally, follow through on that digital photo organization plan you’ve been postponing—use tools like Google Photos or Apple iCloud to sort your pictures. Clean up your computer by removing outdated files and backing up essential documents to both an external hard drive and a cloud service. A streamlined digital space can save time and reduce stress. 4. Fresh Spaces, Fresh Minds: Rearrange Your Furniture Sometimes, a small change in your surroundings can make a big difference. Rearranging furniture or swapping out décor—like changing throw pillows or adding a new rug—can breathe new life into a room. A fresh perspective on your space can uplift your mood and even inspire you to use the room in new and exciting ways. 5. Fitness Refresh: Switch Up Your Routine If you’ve been doing the same workout for a while, it’s time to shake things up. Try a new fitness class like a hybrid yoga-Pilates session, experiment with VR workouts, or invite a friend for a lunchtime walk. Even small changes, like swapping an evening workout for a morning one, can provide a fresh perspective and help you stay motivated. 6. Spark Joy: Get Rid of Items You Don’t Love As Marie Kondo said, if something doesn’t spark joy, it might be time to let it go. Use the new year as a time to part with items you no longer use or love. Donate clothes, books, or household goods to charities or local shelters. Not only will you create a space you truly enjoy, but you’ll also pass along items that may bring joy to someone else. 7. Start a Journaling Routine Journaling is one of the most rewarding habits you can develop in 2025. It’s not just a tool for mental clarity—it’s also a way to preserve your memories. Journaling can help you process challenges, record special moments, and reflect on your growth. Plus, old journals become treasured keepsakes for future generations. Whether you start a gratitude journal, a prayer journal, or simply jot down daily thoughts, you’ll be amazed at how this practice enriches your life. 8. Write Down What You Want from 2025 We all have dreams for the year ahead—whether it’s starting a new career, spending more time with loved ones, or achieving a long-held personal goal. Write down what you want to give, receive, or experience in 2025. You could create a vision board, start a prayer journal, or keep a list in a notebook. Putting your dreams on paper makes them feel more real and gives you something to reflect on as you celebrate your progress at the end of the year. 9. Plan for Excitement: Add Fun to Your Calendar Having something exciting to look forward to is a great motivator, especially during stressful times. Plan a weekend getaway, schedule monthly family days, or book tickets to a concert or show. By adding fun and meaningful plans to your calendar, you’ll give yourself bright spots throughout the year to help you stay energized and positive. 10. Learn to Say “No” One of the healthiest boundaries you can set in 2025 is learning to say “no” to commitments that don’t serve you. Saying “no” doesn’t make you selfish—it allows you to say “yes” to the people, activities, and goals that truly matter. Protect your time and energy, and watch how much more fulfilling your year becomes. Ready to Make 2025 the Year You Write Your Book?Let us help you turn your dream into reality. Call Xulon Press today at 1-866-381-2665 or visit the Xulon Press Substack to kickstart 2025 with the inspiration you need to succeed!

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3 Cs of Impactful Writing: How to Write Clearly, Concisely, and Courteously

Whatever you want to write, whether it’s a memoir, a novel, a devotional, a literature review, or a short story collection, impactful writing starts with keeping your reader in mind. It’s like that familiar saying, “Before you say something, think whether it’s true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind.” Similarly, when you write, think about the three Cs: Are my words clear, concise, and courteous? Why Clear Writing Matters: Making Your Message Easy to Understand As an editor, I often find myself making comments that say, “Clarify this,” or “Explain what this means.” When your writing is clear, your readers won’t have to guess what you intend to say. They won’t wonder what point you’re trying to make, nor will they have to re-read a paragraph to decipher its implications. As writers, we know exactly what we are trying to say. But how can we make our message clear to our readers, too? First, think of your readers. Who are they? How old are they? Are they pastoral leaders or young children? The words you use will greatly depend on your readers’ understanding. Here’s a trick: after you’ve written a paragraph, try looking it over while pretending to be one of your readers. This will help you identify the spots where your readers might get lost and the words that might trip them up. Next, try switching passive sentences to active ones. For example, you could change this passive sentence, “The truth was discovered,” to an active one: “A curious investigator discovered the truth.” Writing in an active voice makes the “doer” in the sentence obvious. Plus, this will give you a chance to incorporate some specifics, like the word “curious” here. Clear writing is active, specific, and tailored to your reader. How to Write Concisely: Cutting the Fluff to Strengthen Your Message Concision can transform your message from wordy and cluttered to meaningful and captivating. This doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your creativity. Instead, when you get rid of unnecessary fluff, you put a spotlight on the words that matter most, creating impactful writing that speaks directly to your audience. So, what is the “fluff” that we should eliminate? Simply put, if your sentence retains its meaning without one or two of its words, then you can probably trash those words—they’re not needed. Phrases like “in order to” or “therefore” are common, unnecessary fluff words. Similarly, too many “to be” verbs can diminish your sentence’s impact. Here’s an example of a “fluffy” sentence: The apples on the trees that grew in the autumn were picked by the young boy in order to make a pie, but he began to be of the opinion that the cherries would be a better choice because they were more ripe. We can make this sentence more powerful by changing it to active voice and removing its unnecessary words. The boy picked some autumn apples before realizing that the riper cherries would make a tastier pie. This revised sentence cuts right to the chase, is much easier to read, and retains its meaning. Take a second look at your sentences. What fluff words can you get rid of? Writing with Courtesy: Building Trust and Connection with Your Readers Courtesy might not be the first thing you’d associate with effective writing. Usually, when we think of courtesy, we think of social politeness. But courtesy can also make or break your readers’ ability to understand and connect with your writing, ultimately shaping impactful writing that resonates on a deeper level. We want our readers to feel valued and respected. Courteous writing embraces inclusivity and considers diverse perspectives, even if by simple acknowledgment. By approaching contentious or complex topics with humility and kindness, we writers can build trust and inspire thoughtful dialogue. Consider two simple tweaks to build courtesy in your words. First, courteous writing is gender neutral. If you are speaking generically and the gender of your subject is unknown, avoid specifying either gender. For example, instead of saying: A good nurse always checks on her patients early in the morning. Consider: A good nurse always checks on his or her patients early in the morning. Or better: Good nurses always check on their patients early in the morning. Second, courteous writing is reader-friendly. Organization tools like chapters, sections, paragraphs, subheadings, and bulleted or numbered lists are important avenues for serving your audience. Make sure you format your writing consistently and in a way that’s easy to read. “Chunking” material into paragraphs and sections is especially effective for accessibility. Take another look at your work and ask yourself if it serves the reader. Is it inclusive? Is it easy to read? Writing courteously can make a night-and-day difference for your audience. Final Thoughts The 3 Cs of impactful writing—clarity, concision, and courtesy—serve as essential guidelines for creating content that resonates with your readers. By focusing on clear communication, removing unnecessary fluff, and embracing a respectful tone, you ensure your writing is engaging, effective, and inclusive. Whether you’re drafting a novel, a devotional, or a short story collection, these principles will help you connect with your audience and leave a lasting impression. If you enjoyed this article, check out our guide on Writing with a Purpose: How to Infuse Your Christian Faith into Your Manuscript for more tips on refining your writing skills.

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Holiday Writer’s Gift Guide 2024

The end of another year approaches, bringing with it the magic of the Christmas season! With decorations lighting up homes and stores, Christmas music playing everywhere, and holiday plans taking shape, don’t forget to squeeze in some Christmas shopping. If you’re looking for thoughtful presents, our Holiday Writer’s Gift Guide 2024 is here to help you find the perfect gifts for the writers in your life. Whether they’re aspiring beginners or seasoned pros, these ideas will encourage creativity and inspire their craft. Top Gift Ideas for Writers in 2024 1. Journals are a Timeless and Essential Gift Perhaps the number one gift you can get for any writer is a journal. Even if they already have a collection, don’t worry—writers can never have enough. Journals come in a variety of sizes, page counts, and beautiful designs, making it easy to find one that matches their personality. Pair this classic gift with a heartfelt note to make it even more special. 2. Fun and Unique Writing Utensils To accompany a new journal, unique writing utensils are always an excellent choice. Skip the generic pens and opt for something creative, like a feather pen or a glass pen. These elegant tools not only look stunning but also provide a tactile writing experience. They’re sure to bring a sense of fun and artistry to their writing process. 3. Writing Prompt Books to Spark Creativity Help your writer overcome blocks and get their creative juices flowing with a writing prompt book. These books (or decks of cards and dice) offer exercises and ideas for writers of all levels. From five-minute challenges to genre-specific prompts, there’s something to inspire everyone. Who knows? A single prompt could lead to their next bestselling novel. 4. How-To Books for Writers For a more educational gift, consider a book that helps your writer refine their skills. Whether it’s a guide to crafting dialogue, building fictional worlds, or strengthening storytelling techniques, there are countless options to choose from. Books by renowned authors, including Stephen King’s On Writing or Ray Bradbury’s Zen in the Art of Writing, make particularly thoughtful gifts. 5. Creative Writing Courses If you want to go big this year, consider gifting your writer a creative writing course. Virtual classes on platforms like MasterClass or local workshops provide opportunities to learn from professionals and engage with fellow writers. For a more affordable option, you could gift them a subscription to an online learning platform that offers a variety of writing-focused content. Final Thoughts Writers pour their hearts into their craft, and thoughtful gifts like these can inspire them to keep going. Whether you’re shopping for a beginner just starting their journey or a seasoned writer honing their skills, the suggestions in our Holiday Writer’s Gift Guide 2024 are sure to make their Christmas bright and meaningful. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of us at Xulon Press!

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Are You Still Making These Common Grammar Mistakes?

Grammar mistakes are the silent saboteurs of good writing. Just the other day, I started a new book that had been collecting dust on my shelf. Within minutes of opening it, I caught a glaring grammar mistake. Frustrated, I put the book back down. Common grammar mistakes can undermine your credibility, confuse your readers, and make even the most compelling story hard to follow. Even the best writers aren’t immune to errors. But there’s no need to memorize every rule to improve your writing skills. Instead, focus on identifying and avoiding the most common grammar mistakes. Let’s dive into four areas where writers often stumble, complete with practical tips to keep your writing clear and professional. 1. Unclear Pronoun References A pronoun replaces a noun in a sentence. For instance: “Jane ate lunch, then she went for a walk.” In this example, “she” is a pronoun referring to “Jane.” Simple enough, right? But in more complex sentences, pronoun errors can confuse readers. Take this example: “After he hung the art on the wall, Charlie decided to repaint it.” What does “it” refer to? The art or the wall? It’s impossible to tell. This lack of clarity can frustrate readers and disrupt the flow of your writing. To fix an unclear pronoun reference, restate the noun or rewrite the sentence to make your meaning crystal clear: When using pronouns (like he, she, it, they, or them), always ask yourself, “Will my reader understand what this refers to?” If there’s any doubt, rewrite for clarity. Clear pronoun usage is an essential step in following grammar rules explained in professional writing. 2. Subject-Verb (Dis)Agreement In my opinion, this mistake is way too easy to make. The subject-verb agreement rule that says the verb (the action word) in the sentence must match the subject (the performer of the action) in number, person, and gender. Most often, I see verbs and subjects mismatched in number, so let’s focus on that. Simply put, if the subject is plural, that means the verb should be plural too. For example, in the sentence, “The candles have the nicest smell,” the word “candles” is plural, so we should use the verb have, the plural form of has. Here’s an example of an incorrect subject-verb agreement: One of my family members are always sick. It might seem correct to use the word “are” in this sentence, because the word right before it, “members,” is plural. However, the subject of the sentence is “one of my family members,” and that’s singular. We’re only talking about one family member. So, we just need to make the verb match the subject in number. Here’s the correct version: One of my family members is always sick. To avoid subject-verb mistakes, double-check that your verb matches your subject. These subject-verb agreement tips can help you spot and fix errors quickly, improving your writing skills and ensuring professional polish. 3. Semicolons vs. Colons Semicolons and colons are powerful punctuation tools when used correctly. Unfortunately, they’re often confused. Let’s break down their roles. Semicolons (;): Use these to separate two independent clauses that are closely related in idea. For example: “My little brother loves any creature that can fly; he is convinced that they have magical powers.” Colons (:): These are best for emphasizing a second clause that amplifies or explains the first. For example: “She suddenly had a harrowing realization: the strange man was her father.” When introducing a list, a colon works only if the sentence before it is complete: Incorrect: The recipe included: flour, eggs, and sugar. Correct: The recipe listed three important ingredients: flour, eggs, and sugar. Mastering the differences between semicolons and colons is a quick way to follow grammar rules explained with precision and style. 4. Its vs. It’s This common grammar mistake deserves attention. Misusing “its” and “it’s” is surprisingly easy. Here’s an example of incorrect usage: Incorrect: The bear and it’s babies traveled through the woods.Correct: The bear and its babies traveled through the woods. When in doubt, expand “it’s” to “it is” in your sentence. If it doesn’t make sense, use “its.” Final Thoughts Grammar is the foundation of effective communication, and avoiding common grammar mistakes can elevate your writing from good to exceptional. Whether you’re refining pronoun usage, mastering subject-verb agreement, or perfecting your punctuation, every effort you make strengthens your message and builds credibility with your readers. Remember, writing is a journey, and even seasoned writers occasionally stumble over grammar rules. Keep learning, practicing, and improving. It’s all part of honing your craft. What’s the most common grammar mistake you’ve encountered in your writing or while reading someone else’s work? Share your experience in the comments section below!

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Helpful Pointers on How to Write Dialogue

Whether in fiction or nonfiction, characters play a large role in driving a story along. Granted, they can’t do so if they remain quiet, and that is where conversations, or dialogue, come into play. Learning how to write dialogue between two or more characters throughout a story helps further the plot, develop the characters’ personalities, and make a story more believable to a reader, thus making the story that much more enjoyable. If you’re wondering how to write dialogue for your book, these tips can help guide you through the process. For some writers, dialogue can flow very naturally; for others, imagining what characters are saying can be tricky. The following five pointers are here to offer some guidance for wherever you stand when it comes to writing dialogue. Dialogue Attribution This is how you let your readers know who is speaking during a dialogue that involves two or more characters. Normally, attributions like “he said” and “she said” are the most common; however, keep in mind that you don’t always have to have these after or within every line of dialogue, especially when it is a conversation between two characters. Not only does this help avoid sounding potentially repetitive, but it also helps keep the dialogue flowing. Here is a sample dialogue between two characters with limited attributions and some descriptive detail to help paint the scene: Not wanting to startle him, Maggie knocked on the side of the entryway. Doc perked up and looked her way. His wrinkled face was unreadable, but it did not seem like he was mad anymore. “Hey. Have you eaten yet?” “No. Haven’t been hungry.” “I brought some lasagna.” She held up the covered dish. He stood up from his chair. “Your… spinach and mozzarella lasagna?” She smiled warmly. “Fresh out of the oven.” He inhaled and a faint smile crossed his face. “Wow. I can’t remember the last time I ate that.” “It hasn’t been that long, but long enough, I guess.” “Well… since you’re here, might as well have something to eat. Care to join me?” Emotion Through Dialogue While descriptive detail is excellent for setting the tone of your story, use your characters’ words to inject emotion into the story, as well. If you are writing a suspenseful dystopian novel, use dialogue to help give scenes a sense of urgency through what the characters say. If you are writing a scene where a man and a woman finally express their love for one another, use emotion to really draw out how they feel for one another. You can also incorporate descriptive detail into your dialogue to help bring more emotion to the scene. The following example blends together descriptive details and dialogue to show a character attempting to offer comfort to a hurting companion: Silently, Evelyn walked over to Jack, who still didn’t turn around. She reached for his hand and took it, unsure if he would shy away from her. Instead, he surprised her by gripping it tightly, then turning to face her. Now, she could clearly see what he was feeling: sadness… grief… “I’m sorry for making you feel this pain again, Jack. But I wanted you to know that I’m more than just your partner in all this; I am also your friend. You can open up to me. I’ll listen.” A few tears ran down his cheeks. “I was there… The ones I lost, I was there… yet even then…” He turned his head to look away from her. “You had no control of anything that happened. You fought for them as hard as you could.” She reached her free hand up and placed it on his cheek, getting his attention back on her. “If you couldn’t save them, no one could,” she continued, not breaking eye contact. “While they are gone, their memory will live on because of you and all who knew them. But don’t close yourself off from caring about those who still remain. You have not lost Barnaby, William, Sandra, your family. They are all still alive thanks to you.” Ongoing Dialogue If you have one character who has a speech or a longer dialogue, it is okay if he or she speaks for multiple paragraphs at a time rather than just a few sentences. Separating a longer dialogue for a single character in multiple paragraphs not only helps with the flow of the story but also helps the reader follow along in a clear and concise manner and lets them know when a character is still speaking and when they are done. Excellent examples where authors show a character having a longer dialogue in the story can be found in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and H.G. Wells’s The Time Machine. Below is another example of one character telling another character their backstory over the span of two paragraphs: “These are dangerous times we live in,” Gerwyn began. “In Norway, we had heard stories of fellow clans crossing the sea and discovering a land both abundant in life and in death. Our clans faced an enemy that did not want us on their shores, so we fought so that we could create settlements to start new prosperous lives for future generations. That is why we came here. I was not jarl when we arrived, but I was one of our strongest warriors. I was placed on the front lines with my brothers and sisters as we fought for a piece of land to call our home. We won. Our settlement remains on the field of victory to this day, yet that does not mean it is safe. “We were unprepared for the first attack by the Anglo-Saxons. Our jarl died protecting us…” He trailed off, taking a moment to swallow hard. “… as well as many others. I took action, took control to ensure whatever remained of our settlement would survive. Once every enemy was eliminated, we mourned our losses, then rebuilt with me as the new jarl. That day, I swore I would do everything within my power to protect my clan. So long as I have a single breath in my body, I will do what it takes to keep those I care for safe.” (Note: Per the Chicago Manual of Style, when a character has multiple paragraphs of dialogue, you begin each new paragraph of dialogue with opening quotation marks but only end the paragraph with closing quotation marks when the character is finished speaking [as shown in the example above]). Try Some Exercises If you find yourself struggling with how to write dialogue, take a step back from your story and try some exercises to help get your creativity flowing. There are a few different things you can try: Listen to Your Characters As you write your story and your characters continue to develop, there may come a time they will begin speaking to you. Crazy? Perhaps. Impossible? Never, as it has been proven time and time again with authors of the past and the present. You are breathing life into your characters using words, so it is only natural if they start to take on a life of their own within your mind. If one character, say your protagonist, is speaking loudly to you one day, listen to what they have to say and write it down. If your antagonist and protagonist are fighting on another day, write down their argument. You will be pleasantly surprised how well dialogue flows when you listen.

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Writing with Thankfulness: Preparing for the Month of Gratitude

November is the time to embrace a practice of writing with thankfulness. It can be transformative to engage in a gratitude-focused writing habit because it can enhance your personal outlook and your writing skills. When you put your gratitude into words, it can open you up to deeper self-expression, creativity, and a grounded sense of purpose. This month of gratitude is a great time to explore how to write with gratitude and to discover the benefits of practicing gratitude through writing. What Does It Mean to Write with Thankfulness? Writing with gratitude is more than listing what you’re thankful for in a gratitude journal; it’s about exploring your feelings of appreciation for what God has blessed you with and using them to fuel your creative expression. Gratitude in writing can help you shift your perspective, which will allow you to focus on the positive things in your life even if you’re facing challenges. When you write with thankfulness in your heart, you open yourself up to greater well-being, more creativity, and a stronger connection to your purpose. A gratitude practice offers you the opportunity to look beyond your typical thoughts and develop a consistent habit of noticing life’s beauty in every detail—even the smallest ones. Writing with gratitude also has mental health benefits. Studies have shown that regularly practicing gratitude can reduce stress and increase happiness, which can help you feel more calm and joyful. When combined with writing, gratitude becomes a powerful tool for your self-expression and emotional well-being. Getting Started with a Month-Long Gratitude Writing Practice Since November is already centered around the theme of gratitude and blessings, starting a gratitude writing practice this month is a great way to lean into your reflective spirit. Start by setting a clear intention. Having a focused approach makes it easier to stay committed throughout the month. Take time to create a cozy writing space to set yourself up for success. This space doesn’t have to be fancy, it just needs to be a place that makes you feel relaxed and inspired. Create a daily habit to visit this spot to write down three things you’re grateful for each morning or to write a short reflection each evening. Consistency is key, so daily practice will help you create a lasting habit. Tools and Journals to Enhance Your Gratitude Practice Journaling about your thankfulness in November is even easier with the right tools. To streamline your practice, you may want to use a journal that’s specifically designed for gratitude and reflection or a digital app that allows you to easily track your thoughts. Here are some popular choices: Having a specific journal or gratitude app that is dedicated to your practice can help you stay focused and make the experience even more meaningful for you. Writing Prompts for a Grateful Heart To help you on your journey toward daily gratitude practice, here are ten gratitude writing prompts to inspire your month of reflection and thankfulness. These 10 prompts can encourage you to explore your feelings of gratitude in depth: Building Gratitude into Your Daily Writing Routine Incorporating thankfulness into your daily writing habits doesn’t need to be time-consuming or even something you try to work in. Set aside five minutes each day for gratitude journaling. Start each entry with five things you’re thankful for, or use one of the prompts above if you’d like a more focused reflection. Self-compassion is also key to practicing gratitude through writing. Allow yourself to express the big and the small things you appreciate, and reserve your judgment. Reflective practices, like rereading past entries, can remind you of positive moments you’ve had and reinforce your commitment to gratitude. Looking Back: What Did Writing with Thankfulness Teach You? When the month of gratitude comes to an end, take time to reflect on what you learned from your practice of writing with thankfulness. Think about how your journey this month affected your outlook, your creativity, and your approach to life’s challenges. Has the practice of thankfulness in writing given you a different perspective? Did it help you find peace in the small moments? Final Thoughts Writing with thankfulness is a rewarding journey that doesn’t have to end in November. Let it be a regular part of your writing routine. Gratitude offers countless benefits, from fostering inner peace to inspiring your writing, so keeping it as part of your daily life can deepen your appreciation for the world around you. As you move forward, consider integrating thankfulness into your writing practice year-round. By regularly embracing writing with thankfulness, you just might cultivate a greater sense of gratitude, creativity, and joy in both your writing and your life.

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30 November Writing Prompts to Embrace the Season of Gratitude and Reflection

November is the month to tap into themes like introspection, gratitude, and personal growth as a writer. Whether you’re an established author, a new-to-the-scene writer, or have a book in progress, these November writing prompts for adults can help you get the words flowing. Writing prompts can also help beat a bout of writer’s block! Explore our collection of 30 prompts and use November as a springboard for your creative growth and discovery. 30 Writing Prompts for November If you’d like to focus on a specific theme this month, our November writing prompts are organized into themes to make it easy to find a prompt that suits your writing mood. You’ll find a prompt for every day of the month if you’re focused on consistency. Gratitude and Reflection Change and Growth Nature and Seasons Family and Holidays Future and Aspirations Creativity and Imagination How to Use These Prompts to Improve Your Writing Writing prompts aren’t just meant to help you put words on paper—they’re tools you can use to hone different elements of your storytelling. Try using our November writing prompts for adults to: Explore more of our writing prompts to inspire your daily journaling practices. Final Thoughts Make some time for yourself this month by sticking to your writing practice with these November writing prompts. Choose a few prompts to start with and challenge yourself to complete at least one prompt per week. Share your writing with us in the comments!

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