For Writers

Helpful writing links:

There are a lot of resources out there for writers. A lot. Looking for an agent? Want to learn more about the craft of writing? Want to connect with other writers? Here are a few useful sites to start your journey.

QueryTracker: A database of literary agents at your fingertips for the perfect agent hunt. A great way to keep track of queries, submissions, and lots more. There's also a forum where you can connect with other writers.

Absolute Write: A forum for writers (similar to QueryTracker, but more focused on the forum aspect). Another great place to connect with writers. You can also meet critique partners, alpha/beta readers, and more.

SCWBI: The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators is "A network for the exchange of knowledge between writers, illustrators, editors, publisher, agents...and others involved with literature for young people." Provides professional information, support, and more.

Literary Rambles:  An invaluable place for researching agents from Casey McCormick. Also has interviews, contests, and much more. Check out the helpful posts section for writing advice.

Kid Lit: Run by agent Mary Kole, Kid Lit provides LOTS of wonderful information for writers. (I met one of my fabulous critique partners, Amparo, on here)

Adventures in YA & Children's Publishing: A fabulous blog where young adult & children's writers can find helpful articles, writing advice, interviews and links. Be sure to check out the helpful articles section.

Janice Hardy: A HUGE resource for planning your novel, writing, editing, querying...everything. Run by author Janice Hardy.

The Bookshelf Muse: Lots of information on writing. Be sure to check out the excellent Emotional Thesaurus to add that extra punch to your writing.

Wordplay: Author K.M.Weiland's blog provides a huge range of articles to help in the writing process.

YA Highway: Young Adult writers blogging about books and writing.

WriteOnCon: The free, interactive online writing conference held during the summer. Also hosts monthly live events. There's also a forum. And be sure to check out the archives.

Elana Johnson: Writer, WritOnCon co-founder, query goddess. Her writing and query tips are superb.

Beth Revis: NYTimes bestselling author. Be sure to check out her blog for helpful advice.

Miss Snark's First Victim: The Authoress blogs about writing. Authoress also holds a Secret Agent contest each month, where submissions are read by agents and prizes include submission to the agent. Also hosts the annual Baker's Dozen Agent Auction, where agents can bid on entrants manuscripts.

Operation Awesome: Seven writers (including little old me) in various stages of the publishing journey blog about writing, books, and more. The home of the monthly Mystery Agent contest, where online pitches are read by an agent. The prizes include submission to the judging agent (anything from partials to a full manuscript).