When you write to an author

When you write to an author, do you know how much we treasure your letters and emails? An email from someone who has read my books and loved them always makes me smile. It can change a grim day into a brilliant one. It can make me feel as if I’m connected to people all over the world.

I’m telling you this because I had a number of such messages last week, and it was the nicest thing. I’m sure I’m not the only writer who feels like this. So if you love a book or a series, make sure you let the author know.

Now, how are you surviving the shutdown of pretty much everything? I’m used to being a hermit and spending a huge amount of time alone (apart from Harry, of course).

But still I’m struggling. I find myself wasting days and getting very little done, when really this should be a brilliant opportunity to do lots of writing. But I write best when my head is clear and there’s not too much going on – and that’s just not the case right now.

So instead, I’m trying to figure out how to do talks and workshops online, and how I’m going to launch A Clue for Clara online, if we’re all still locked away in August. I’m also thinking of doing some readings of the first few chapters of my books, for Instagram or YouTube. And like a lot of other authors, I’m putting up free creative writing challenges and games, for kids and adults.

I’m going to add to them once a week – probably on a Tuesday. You can find them here. https://liantanner.com.au/free-stuff/

Here are some other great resources for kids interested in writing. Littlescribe has a series of workshops on YouTube, with wonderful authors like Deborah Abela and Oliver Phommavanh. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZxkzgsWG0VYY6QdIGR13hg

Hazel Edwards has a whole bunch of stuff. https://hazeledwards.com/aspiring-writers-backup.html

So does Sophie Masson, who has collected links from other writers as well as her own. https://firebirdfeathers.com/directory-of-free-online-creative-writing-and-illustration-resources-and-activities/

So does Gabrielle Wang, who is putting up an illustration every week, for you to bounce ideas off. https://spark.gabriellewang.com/

There’s a ton more. If you have any favourites that aren’t listed here, please share them in the comments.

And stay safe and well!

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