Does
the character change/grow/learn something by the end of the last chapter? The
main conflict gets resolved by the end of the book. In some books, characters
may change the way s/he looks at the world. In others, a character may realize
that s/he was doing the right thing all along. That realization is the result
of the growth of character. Either way, the character should experience growth.
Sentence
structure is as important as word choice. In revision, I reread the entire
manuscript looking at nothing but sentence structure. My goal is to vary the structure
to help create rhythmic prose. Long, short, and mid-size sentences keep the
writing lively. Too many subject-verb sentences craft bland writing, and
readers notice with a yawn. Another option is to vary sentence openings: Susie peeped out the window. As the rain
pinged the glass, Susie peeked out the window.
Check
the dialog. I read each piece of dialog and question whether is sound
appropriate for the character’s age and situation. As I read it aloud, I listen
to the words and tone. My goal is to capture the voice of each character. By
reading aloud, my brain hears mistakes that my eyes overlook if reading
silently. It’s also easier to catch the flow and rhythm of the words. Try it.
Grammar,
punctuations, and manuscript format are my final checks. Professional looking
manuscripts are more likely to get read than those with simple, overlooked
mistakes.
Revision
is our chance to make manuscripts shine. I wish you sparkle and glimmer in your
literary output.
Call for
Submissions for Adult Writers:
DIG
Magazine is a world history publication that targets children aged 9
to 14. They’re accepting queries for feature articles, supplemental nonfiction,
and fiction. Writers can pitch anything from plays to biographies.
Submission guidelines at
http://cricketmedia.com/dig-submission-guidelines
Nancy Kelly Allen has written 40+ children’s
books and a cookbook, SPIRIT OF KENTUCKY: BOURBON COOKBOOK.
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