There are many different places that offer courses for writers, but which one do you take? They all cost money and you want to get your money’s worth. Which one of them should receive your hard-earned money?

You have a wonderful idea for a story. The plot is awesome, the characters are fantastic, but you still feel that something is missing, that you need just a little something else to make it perfect. Maybe you need to create a language for your world.

A great way to keep track of all the ideas that go running through your head is to keep a writer's journal.

The Magic Hour, by James S. Crowley, opens with nine-year-old twin brothers Eddie and Brian preparing to spend their first night alone outside in their tree house. Their friend, Tad, has loaned them a story that he says they must listen to.

The Law of Unintended Consequences brings conflict, tension, and surprises to your story. A character does something and intends for it to have a certain outcome. Maybe it accomplishes what was planned, maybe not, but other unplanned events happen because of that one decision.

A desire to write is burning deep within you. Your muse, or subconscious mind keeps imagining crazy things every time you turn around. When you see someone walking a dog, crazy thoughts go through your head.

The Halloween Tree was written by Ray Bradbury, a master of fantasy and science fiction. First published in 1972, it is a classic tale to be enjoyed by young and old alike.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first began to read The Black Madonna of Derby by Joanna Czechowska. Normally I read mystery, suspense, or science fiction/fantasy. Pleasantly surprised, I discovered that historical fiction, especially if written by Joanna Czechowska, is quite enjoyable.

You are going to write a story. The plot is full of action, the characters are outstanding, the locale is exciting. How do you decide what point of view in which to write it?

A plot consists of every part of the storyline - the people, the conflicts, the world it takes place in. An important thing to remember - no plot is ever set in stone until the story is published. It can be changed as you write the story, not just one time but several times.