Costco Connection - November 2005

makes it clear that, as an agent, she does not The networking train kept rolling as accept science fiction, yet at least once a week a Eckstut’s boss mentioned their radio appear-sci-fi manuscript lands on her desk. ance to the president of Workman Publishing. Research also means being able to iden- He said, “That’s a proposal I’d be interested in tify whether or not an idea is a good one. seeing.” And the book—at least the idea for Sterry and Eckstut suggest asking yourself the book—wasborn. several questions, including: That leaves writing. Sterry believes the ■ What’sthecompetition? Theanswer is best way to write is to “sit down and get crucial. The book should be similar but not going.” He cautions against being too identical to others out there. wrapped up in the product rather than the ■ Is there an audience? It’s important to process of writing and rewriting. He also says know that people are interested in the topic. friends and loved ones need to be trained to ■ Why me? You need to be able to prove not interrupt writing time. to an agent or publishers why you have the Writing groups are a valuable resource experience, knowledge or talent to write the for not only writing, but for networking and book you have in mind. meeting other writers. “They give people the As for networking, they encourage writers experience of working with a deadline,” says to share ideas with anyone who will listen. Eckstut. “Reading a thing out loud in front of Before writing Putting Your Passion into Print, others is also very helpful. Through that Eckstut and Sterry, who live in the Bay Area, you’ll find clunky parts, or get a laugh where put on workshops teaching people about the you didn’t expect one.” publishing industry. Eckstut mentioned the If it’s true that 81 percent of Americans workshops to a friend, who mentioned them want to write a book, Sterry and Eckstut are to a friend who is a producer of NPR’s Talk of doing their part to ensure that 100 percent of the Nation, resulting in a two-day appearance. them have every chance to make it happen. C

It’s all write by me CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

Cats and dogs from the wrong side of the tracks?

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Richard A. Clarke could
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Wit and wisdom from Uncle John.

Patricia Cornwell brings her real-life experience as a crime reporter and forensic scientist to the world of fiction, creating the edge-of-your-seat plot twists and shockingly realistic details that have built her reputation as the world’s No. 1 bestselling crime writer. Her eagerly anticipated book Predator is the 14th offering in Patricia Cornwell’s series starring the irrepressible forensic pathologist Kay Scarpetta.

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