Author Trivia

Before James Patterson became a bestselling thriller writer, he worked for the advertising firm J. Walter Thompson. He’s also credited with creating the “Toys R Us Kid” slogan.

Backspace Agent-Author Seminar, November 11-12, 2010

Where: The Radisson Martinique, New York

Price: Both days $495 before Sept 15, $595 after; one day $275 before Sept 15. $295 after (discounts available for Backspace members)

For More Info: backspacewritersconference.com

You won’t find giant lecture halls full of writers competing for one agent at the Backspace Agent-Author Seminar—workshops are limited to only 14 writers for every two agents to ensure all attendees receive individual attention.

The event also includes panel discussion with the agents in attendance. And because criticism—even good criticism—can sting, the organizers include uplifting presentations, as well. For example, at a previous Backspace event, Lorenzo Carcaterra, a screenwriter and New York Times bestselling author of Sleepers, talked about breaking in, networking and other topics. Panels and presentations break 15 minutes early to give attendees a change to mingle with the agents and authors and ask questions.

Backspace is home to some great success stories, too. Last year, between the organization’s May conference and its November Agent-Author Seminar, 10 attendees secured agent representation.

By Linda Formichelli for Writers Digest and co-author of The Renegade Writer, teaches an e-course on breaking into magazines and offers writer phone mentoring.

Debut!

Anastasia Hopcus, Austin, Texas
Anastasiahopcus.com, hopcusblog.com

New Book: Shadow Hills (young adult, Egmont USA, July 2010)

Time Frame: The first draft of Shadow Hills took about two months, but the rewrites took five.

The Agent: Including my first (still unpublished) novel, I queried for three years. I contracted at least 100 agents before finding Meredith Kaffle (with Charlotte Sheedy Literary), and she’s absolutely wonderful. I can still remember when she called my house. I almost hyperventilated.

Biggest Surprised: That my book could be rejected by agents and publishers and yet I was still able to find people who completely love it and believe in it.

What I did Right: I paid attention to advice from an agent who turn4d down the first draft of Shadow Hills. His letter was blunt, with more specific criticism than anyone else I ‘d sent it to. Though it took me a few days to get over my hurt feelings, the letter helped me figure out my manuscript’s weakness.

Helpful Communities: Luckily, I found the Tenners, a LiveJournal Group of authors who have debut YA or middle-grade novels coming out in 2010. The Tenners also helped me connect with online bloggers, and those collaborations and friendships have proven invaluable.

What’s Next? I have a few paranormal YA projects in the works. I see a lot of potential to continue the story of Shadow Hills, but I have plans to explore other characters and stories, as well.

By Chuck Sambuchino for Writers Digest.

Warren The Ape

Two Episcopal High School alums now work on the MTV show Warren the Ape. Spencer Chinoy is the co-creator, director and writer of the Greg the Bunny spin-off, while Rhyan Taylor serves as a graphic artist.

Casting All Screenwriter's!

October 14-17 Casting all screenwriters. Your break in show biz may come at Hal Ackerman’s film writing workshop. This event takes place during the Jacksonville Film Festival, a four-day celebration of all things movies, held at various theaters across the city (858-9889).

Quotes for the Writer

"Experience is one thing you can't get for nothing." --- Oscar Wilde

Wes Craven Creates First Graphic Novel

Wes Craven is creating his first graphic novel with indie publisher Liquid Comics. "He's one of the nicest people I've worked with, though his films scare the hell out of me," Sharad Devarajan, the publisher's CEO.


Inc Mag Oct 2010