Resources to Help on Your Novel-Writing Journey
So you’ve started a new novel. Congratulations! Your journey has begun. It seems straightforward enough: you sit down in front of your laptop or some pen and paper, perhaps you begin with chapter one…and then what? Even if we novelists have the story planned to the final period in our heads, the novel-writing journey, from beginning to end, can be a winding one, with confusion, frustration, and elation around every corner. In those moments of difficulty, it’s important to remember that writing a novel doesn’t have to be an isolated experience—not when there are so many writers and resources out there to assist, while also cheering you on from start to finish.
We here at Write or Die Tribe want to make sure you have as many tools in your arsenal when it comes to tackling that novel, whether it be the first draft or final round of edits. Without more ado, let’s dive into some resource options!
Books on Writing
In my experience these aren’t everyone’s first go-to, but having a handy book on writing novels can be such a helpful reference piece throughout your process. It may take time to find the right one, but once you do, you’ll have a mentor for life, and they might happen to be your favorite author! Do a little search on the people you read the most and see if they have any useful works on craft. It can be the biggest comfort to have that kind of guidance from someone you already trust, rather than a random academic who might never have written a novel in their life.
Wonderbook by Jeff Vandermeer, though geared towards sci-fi and fantasy writing, is my holy grail for all the pieces I’ve written, even in the realms of memoir and poetry. It’s one of those books that makes you look at your storytelling from a whole new perspective, one that makes you want to drop everything and get to writing, no matter the genre. Vandermeer has a way of making novel-writing feel doable and exciting rather than terrifying, all in a way that’s easy to understand and enjoyable to read. With essays and interviews from acclaimed published authors, an affiliated website choc-full of extras, and pages of imaginative exercises, it’s definitely a companion to consider for your shelf. (Plus, the illustrations are stunning!)
Writing Vlogs
This resource is unassuming, but it can be one of the most helpful. Like I mentioned in the previous section, it’s nice to get tips from someone you feel equal with. Many writers on BookTube are working through a first draft of a first manuscript and chat about the ups and downs of their journey along the way. While no two novel-writing processes are the same, it can help to see how other people are writing, particularly if you’re in need of some fresh ideas to help you engage with your project. Much like finding an author you trust and like the style of, finding a BookTube personality works in a similar way. Here are a couple names to get you started!
Katytastic has been on BookTube since 2009, and is one of the old-timers who helped kickstart that niche community. Not only does she release weekly writing vlogs, she also has a playlisted section on her channel full of how-to’s and advice on outlining, drafting, and story-building. She’s currently writing her third book, with her previous two now in the revision process. Her videos are entertaining, humorous, and heaping with applicable writing knowledge!
Liselle Sambury is part of a section of BookTube known as AuthorTube, and shares videos related to the writing and publishing processes, and to her own experience with both plus more. Her debut novel, Blood Like Magic, was released this past summer and has received acclaim from readers and critics alike. If you’re in need of some wholesome vibes, she has them all.
Writing Communities
As I said earlier, writing a novel doesn’t have to be a totally isolating experience. In fact, it’s much more fun when you have a network of friends. While you can search through Facebook and Twitter for these kinds of writing groups and connections, and will definitely be able to find wonderful people to surround yourself with, there are also online forums and websites which focus solely and wholly on writers and writing.
Scribophile is one free resource to make note of. It’s a hub for connection, but also allows writers of all skill levels to access an array of helpful craft resources, to get critique and feedback in online workshops, and to find beta readers for their projects. Not to mention lists of free writing contests where members can win cash prizes! All writers’ rights are protected through the sharing process, so no worries about losing your work, it’s in safe hands.
If you’ve never heard of Nanowrimo, search it now! Though this site has its spotlight season in November (the designated national novel writing month), it’s free to use the whole year round. Here you can connect with fellow novel writers from around the world and in your region. With forums, in-person and online meetup or write-in opportunities, and novel-writing resources from acclaimed authors, it’s a major fan favorite. And don’t forget to look at their tab of discounts, where you can save on an array of writerly merchandise!
If you are looking to make connections with writers like yourself, look no further than the Write or Die Tribe Community Membership. Step away from the potential toxicity of social media and join this writing forum instead! With topics ranging from novel writing, poetry, sharing acceptances and rejections, and reading recommandations, you are sure to find a conversation that excites you. One of the best features is that you can find a writing partner or someone to give you feedback/critique on your work! This membership also includes discounts and access to live Craft Chats monthly with some of your favorite authors.
There are no hidden secrets to writing a novel. It’s all very personal, and every writer has to find their own way to navigate their unique process. That being said, it’s a wonderful thing to be surrounded by resourceful options. May this list give you a handful of tools for your belt. Now go on, write that novel!
