Archive for the ‘Teen/Middle Grade Fiction’ Category

re: Should Flashbacks Be Feared?

posted 9/1/10

Dear Editor…

In my critique group my fellow authors warned me about the dangers of flashbacks in fiction. They suggested a prologue, but I have heard that prologues can also be deadly to a manuscript. Can you give me some advice on this matter?

Many thanks,
J

Click here to read the answer...

re: Query Quandary

posted 8/23/10

Dear Editor…

I have written a few query letters for my picture books, and sent them off to many editors, with no
success. I decided to write a Middle grade novel and try to get it published first… Question is: Can I query it before I finish? And is it bad to query the editors I have already queried for my picture book?

Sincerely,

Christina

Click here to read the answer...

re: Is Past Tense Safe for Synopses?

posted 8/16/10

Dear Editor…

I am working on a synopsis for my MG novel. It is written in present tense, except for a few sentences (in past tense) that provide background material explaining why a character did something. Is that okay?

Sincerely,

Theresa

Click here to read the answer...

re: Must a Murdering Dad Make Good by “The End”?

posted 8/10/10

Dear Editor…

My protagonist’s father is convicted of murder. He also has a history of abuse. He’s found innocent of the murder, and promises a better life for his family. My critique group wants him rehabilitated. How can I resolve this and stay true to the time period when spousal abuse was sadly hidden or ignored?

Sincerely,

Maria

Click here to read the answer...

NEWSFLASH: The Editor to Write “Writing Young Adult Fiction for Dummies”

posted 7/29/10

Big news…

.

Click here to read the answer...