DanyelleLeafty So, voice. What is it? How do you find it? What makes your voice yours? #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @DanyelleLeafty Oh, good! I'm listening... #MGlitchat -7:03 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas I didn't find my MC's voice until I had put her through the ringer. then I knew what she was capable of. #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz RT @DanyelleLeafty: So, voice. What is it? How do you find it? What makes your voice yours? #MGlitchat -7:03 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Hello everyone! Looking forward to tonight's chat on the MG voice. #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty Sorry, Tweetchat is slow tonight. Am in Tweetdeck now. #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @michaelascotto I'm so excited to learn this evening! #MGlitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen I find that I can't start to write a new piece unless I know what the voice is going to be like. #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards I always realize that I've 'found' the voice when the character starts arguing with me (against the plot, even) They take over :) #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PHCMarchesi @DanyelleLeafty Agree! You refine voice as you refine character! #MGlitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss Voice = personality = indispensable #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
TheCliffhangers #mglitchat Voice is character. When you find your character, you have to abide by what they would do and say. -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @spajonas Very good observation. Sometimes it happens, and sometimes you have to work at finding it. #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PHCMarchesi RT @TheCliffhangers: #mglitchat Voice is character. When you find your character, you have to abide by what they would do and say. -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty So very true! RT @PippaBayliss: Voice = personality = indispensable #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @michaelascotto Hmm, didn't mean to tweet that to you. #MGlitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress RT @DanyelleLeafty: So, voice. What is it? How do you find it? What makes your voice yours? #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa @spajonas It's encouraging that we don't have to get the story's voice right off the bat. There's hope. :) #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @earthwards: I always realize that I've 'found' the voice when the character starts arguing with me (against the plot, even) They take over :) #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz There are two Voice Camps: Those who think anyone can find one and those who say it can't be taught. #MGlitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards I also find it helps to 'interview' my characters (in my head) - it differentiates MY voice from theirs #odd #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
TheCliffhangers What does #mglitchat stand for again heh heh? -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @TheCliffhangers I agree that voice is character. Each story & main character are different. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @elissacruz: Who is getting us started tonight, anyway? I forget. #MGlitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @DanyelleLeafty it did not come to me right away. I just kept writing plot until I could hear her in my head. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto For 1st person, 1 tactic I take is to keep a character journal. Helps me 'learn' the char's opinions/personality #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @story_queen This is so true for me. In my stories, the voice *is* the character. Can't write without it. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss I know it's what Ags and Eds want - and (obv) readers, too #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @michaelascotto: For 1st person, 1 tactic I take is to keep a character journal. Helps me learn the chars opinions/personality #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @TheCliffhangers Middle Grade Lit Chat :) #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @KarenninaPosa definitely just keep writing even if you think it's crap and hollow. it eventually comes. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @spajonas Mine has to come to me first or I can't write. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @KrisYankee: RT @michaelascotto: For 1st person, 1 tactic I take is to keep a character journal. Helps me learn the chars opinions/personality #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jjhoutman Authorial voice vs. MC voice. How are they different? #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @elissacruz Possible self teaching? Learn by doing? #MGlitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee Me 2! RT @DanyelleLeafty: @story_queen This is so true for me. In my stories the voice *is* the character. Cant write without it. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @WaldenPondPress: RT @DanyelleLeafty: So, voice. What is it? How do you find it? What makes your voice yours? #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @jjhoutman I think they're their own distinct flavor, if that makes sense. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz My rhetorical question: when industry people say the voice needs work, do they mean it's not there or it's not memorable enough? #MGlitchat -7:06 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @DanyelleLeafty I'm a plot-1st character-2nd writer so eventually the character builds, usually upon revision. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @elissacruz I think I don't belong to either camp. I think voice can be discovered...but not everyone is up for the challenge. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @DanyelleLeafty that's usually when I find the voice. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @librarykelly @elissacruz When I first started, it was learning by listening. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @jjhoutman MC voice can't be the author - reader will know it's an adult. It has to sound like, BE the MC. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub Me too, Danyelle. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny @earthwards I find this fascinating. Do you have a set list of ?s or is it more by feel? #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @spajonas That's awesome! Finding voice=gold. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @elissacruz I think it means it not memorable enough. There's some sort of voice, but maybe it doesn't ring true for genre. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LianaBrooks RT @earthwards: I always realize that I've 'found' the voice when the character starts arguing with me (against the plot, even) They take over :) #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LianaBrooks RT @DanyelleLeafty: So very true! RT @PippaBayliss: Voice = personality = indispensable #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @KrisYankee: RT @michaelascotto: For 1st person, 1 tactic I take is to keep a character journal. Helps me learn the chars opinions/personality #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @DanyelleLeafty @spajonas I can't write until it comes either, except that I cheat and write "about" what I want to write about. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @jjhoutman Wouldn't this be the difference of me speaking like a thirty something person rather than a thirteen year old? #MGlitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @story_queen: @elissacruz I think I don't belong to either camp. I think voice can be discovered...but not everyone is up for the challenge. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Me too! @spajonas I'm a plot-1st character-2nd writer #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @jjhoutman a good author becomes their main character, right? so they CAN be one and the same if you're immersed. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jjhoutman @KrisYankee Yeah, but I'm finding as I write new MSs, the character voices change, but there's still me there. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @themediabunny It's kind of strange, but I sort of sit them down and ask them 'okay WHAT do you want here? Why can't you have it? #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @story_queen @spajonas Not cheating if it works. :p O:) #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @earthwards: @themediabunny It's kind of strange, but I sort of sit them down and ask them 'okay WHAT do you want here? Why can't you have it? #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @librarykelly @elissacruz I hope we can learn how ... tho, I hear Voice in my head (whoa, should I have fessed to this?) #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @jjhoutman I find that a rookie mistake is authors mistaking their authorial voice for their character's voice. #MGlitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @KarenninaPosa I didn't realize I was like that until now :) #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @PippaBayliss @librarykelly @elissacruz You mean it's not normal to hear voices in your head? O:) #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @elissacruz: @jjhoutman I find that a rookie mistake is authors mistaking their authorial voice for their character's voice. #MGlitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder I think sometimes you fall into voice by rewriting/ revising. Cutting OUT the distractions clears things up to hear the voice. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @jjhoutman I'm in my stories, but I try very hard for the character to sound and act like a 12yro boy. I'm not a 12yrold boy. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @LaurelSnyder: I think sometimes you fall into voice by rewriting/ revising. Cutting OUT the distractions clears things up to hear the voice. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @themediabunny And to build smaller details (like fave foods, colors etc.) I ask them as well (it sounds strange saying it) :P #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @PippaBayliss @librarykelly Hey, I think all good writers hear voices in their heads. #donttellmeifImwrong #MGlitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @story_queen I wrote in 3rd person which distanced me from the voice until my plot was established and rewrote in 1st POV. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny @earthwards Not strange at all! I'm just curious because some characters in my WIP are chatty and some...aren't. LOL! #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @LaurelSnyder This is so true! Refining the voice through revisions. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @story_queen defiinitely DO NOT recommend :) it was a lot of work! but it DID work. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @PippaBayliss @librarykelly @elissacruz Aren't all writers a bit psycho? We hear and see stories in our minds! I do, at least #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder I think the danger of "trying for voice" is to end up with QUIRKY!!!! voices. Gimmicks and repetition are not "voice." #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @themediabunny @earthwards I've seen a set of interview Q's on the Internet. I have them printed out...*frantically searches* #MGlitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari Hi all! Excited to talk about voice for a few minutes. Sorry I'm late :) #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny RT @LaurelSnyder: I think sometimes you fall into voice by rewriting/ revising. Cutting OUT the distractions clears things up to hear the voice. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @DanyelleLeafty @PippaBayliss @librarykelly @elissacruz Tween u & me - it keeps me sane. Too much me in my head is mad-making :) #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @elissacruz: @jjhoutman I find that a rookie mistake is authors mistaking their authorial voice for their characters voice. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress Yes- exactly :) RT @story_queen: @elissacruz I think voice can be discovered...but not everyone is up for the challenge. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub @elissacruz #mglitchat What do you mean authorial vs character voice, Elissa? -7:11 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @PippaBayliss @librarykelly @elissacruz I endeavor to find this sanity everyone speaks of one day. O:) #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 1st, 2011
rachelgrinti @LaurelSnyder But it's tricky, because I've seen too much cutting and polishing remove the strong voice as well. #MGlitchat -7:11 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas RT @LaurelSnyder: I think sometimes you fall into voice by rewriting/ revising. Cutting OUT the distractions clears things up.. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa I discovered a character's voice (not the MC) when he wrote a letter on my behalf. He'll get his own story told someday #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty For me, the most important way to find the voice for each character is to shut myself off and listen. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @KarenninaPosa I love it when they do that. :D #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @PippaBayliss @elissacruz Hehe! This is the place for confessions! (and same here, by the way.) #MGlitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @spajonas Yikes. I toyed with this, but am too lazy! #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson see the world through the character's eyes and background and you will get the voice #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @DanyelleLeafty I agree with that - sometimes I have to think, okay this is how I would say it, now reword. :) #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @deegarretson: see the world through the character's eyes and background and you will get the voice #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto RT @DanyelleLeafty: For me, the most important way to find the voice for each character is to shut myself off and listen. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @DanyelleLeafty Exactly - you can only find their voice but shutting YOURS out :-) #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @elissacruz Can you give an example? #MGlitchat -7:12 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee I've interviewed my characters 2 c what they want. But usually I just think about them. Create playlists they would listen 2 #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
ca_london So true RT @LaurelSnyder: danger of "trying for voice" is to end up w/ QUIRKY!! voices. Gimmicks and repetition are not "voice." #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @deegarretson: see the world through the characters eyes and background and you will get the voice #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @jmaschari Exactly! It's amazing how much I talk to myself sometimes. :S #mglitchat #bequietauthor -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jjhoutman RT Yeah, Elissa. Explain !@JoanHolub: @elissacruz #mglitchat What do you mean authorial vs character voice, Elissa? -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @DanyelleLeafty @pippabayliss @elissacruz I think it's a little too normal! #MGlitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa For me, a strong voice is when writing crosses over into art, is beyond craft. Hence, voice may be lost with too much revising. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly RT @LaurelSnyder: I think sometimes you fall into voice by rewriting/ revising. Cutting OUT the distractions clears things up to hear the voice. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @LaurelSnyder Yep, true. Crit partners help - I'm don't trust myself to know for sure if I have it right #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @librarykelly @pippabayliss @elissacruz Normal is overrated, I think. >:) #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @deegarretson: see the world through the character's eyes and background and you will get the voice #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @KarenninaPosa Revising is a double-edged sword. Must be careful not to slice the wrong things. #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa @DanyelleLeafty I'm going to get each of my MCs to write a letter too. #writingexercise #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @spajonas @story_queen Interesting... #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @story_queen I will admit that it was very labor intensive but I'm a perfectionist at heart. #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari Being a teacher has been very helpful and influential to my writing, I am immersed in voice on a daily basis. #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @KarenninaPosa I need to know your secret. I have a character who gives me a paragraph in diary entries every so often. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz Authorial voice is your way of writing--what makes your writing yours. Sometimes it can sneak in and take over your character. #MGlitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto To separate myself, I like to imagine as many things the char. and I would see differently, then write about them #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @michaelascotto: To separate myself, I like to imagine as many things the char. and I would see differently, then write about them #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @elissacruz: Authorial voice is your way of writing--what makes your writing yours. Sometimes it can sneak in and take over your character. #MGlitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Definitely RT @DanyelleLeafty Revising is a double-edged sword. Must be careful not to slice the wrong things #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress When we review submissions, voice plays a huge role. Editing can do a lot, but w/o a strong voice it's hard for us tomove forward #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @KarenninaPosa What would've happened to Juney B Jones if she'd been edited for 'correct' grammar, etc #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @LaurelSnyder So...you should just do what you can do and then see what you've got? Then revise. Am I right? :) #MGlitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @elissacruz I am always going through my work with a fine-tooth comb for where my voice or an "adult" voice has popped through. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
rachelgrinti @story_queen Yes, important to know when to stop smoothing until all uniqueness is smoothed out. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress Seen this!RT @LaurelSnyder danger of "trying for voice" is to end up w/ QUIRKY!! voices. Gimmicks and repetition are not "voice." #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Good tip RT @michaelascotto To separate myself, I imagine as many things the char. & I wld see differently, then write about them #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @DanyelleLeafty @pippabayliss @elissacruz Sounds boring to me. #MGlitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty Truth! RT @rachelgrinti: @story_queen Yes, important to know when to stop smoothing until all uniqueness is smoothed out. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets @deegarretson you've cleared it all up."observe the characters world thru their eyes"--that's speaks to me. Ureka #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee Writing in 1st person, I think, helps me become the character. I'm immersed in it and I try hard to not let "me" come through. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder @librarykelly That's how it feels right to me. Revise, and revise and rewrite and ask for help once it feels like you're on track #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz For example, I critted a ms. recently with rejections saying MC was too old. Found lots of places where author voice took over. #MGlitchat -7:17 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub @elissacruz Thanks, Elissa. There's probably some authorial voice in everyone's work, we just hope it doesn't show too much. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly RT @deegarretson: see the world through the character's eyes and background and you will get the voice #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @jmaschari - I find that people who are around kids all the time tend to have a better grasp of the MG voice :) #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @KrisYankee Yes, I have definitely written in 1st, just to nail the voice, then change to 3rd if needed :) #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson @jmaschari being around real kids has helped me improve voice as well #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @jmaschari & if you aren't a teacher, find some kids your MC's age to hang out with #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @WaldenPondPress @jmaschari Definitely. Opens up whole new world views. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @KrisYankee: Writing in 1st person, I think, helps me become the character. I'm immersed in it and I try hard to not let "me" come through. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub @PippaBayliss Great advice, Pippa. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jjhoutman @elissacruz Author voice can't take over character voice, but it's still there. Always. has to be. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @earthwards I feel like 3rd person distances me from the character. 1st is a better fit for me. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @KarenninaPosa @danyelleleafty What a fabulous writing exercise! #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @PippaBayliss @jmaschari ... but NO stalking: ask their parents' permission first ;D #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @WaldenPondPress: @jmaschari - I find that people who are around kids all the time tend to have a better grasp of the MG voice #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz I find that it's best to think like an 11yo when I'm writing. If I focus on that, the voice usually works itself out. #MGlitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
rachelgrinti @WaldenPondPress Yes, can be tough to get that right if you don't interact with kids--need to like & know the audience. #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @WaldenPondPress: @jmaschari - I find that people who are around kids all the time tend to have a better grasp of the MG voice :) #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari Middle grade is definitely a very unique age - I think the voice can be hard to get -lots of nuances and dichotomies to consider #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
TheCliffhangers RT @DanyelleLeafty: For me, the most important way to find the voice for each character is to shut myself off and listen. #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @PippaBayliss ha yes! #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @KrisYankee @earthwards I agree. How common is first person in MG? #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz Right. It's always there, but it shouldn't take over the character's voice. When it does, that's when things go wrong usually. #MGlitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa In the absence of MG-age kids, will lots of TV help? iCarly, etc.? #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @jmaschari And MG can cover such a wide range of development. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @elissacruz I do too! It helps that I have a 10 1/2 & a 12 yr old. I listen in on their convos all the time #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @PippaBayliss @KrisYankee @earthwards I think it's becoming more acceptable. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @KarenninaPosa I definitely think so! Also tons of movies.. Call it research. ;-) #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @DanyelleLeafty YES! and that all needs to be addressed - the kids are all at such different places #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen voice is not so much the story itself as much as how you as the author choose to tell it. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @jmaschari Part of what makes nailing the voice perfectly so difficult. #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson @love8rockets :) #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @KarenninaPosa iCarly, those shows on Disney - Wizard of Waverly Place, shows like that. Sorry, Charlie is another #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari I love Goonies as a classic middle grade study - that movie really nails what it is to be a kid (so does Super 8) #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @KarenninaPosa TV doesn't get close IMO but maybe it's geography: where you live vs TV mg kids? #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @KrisYankee @KarenninaPosa It's interesting comparing my reactions to how the kids on the show react. Big difference sometimes. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @story_queen: voice is not so much the story itself as much as how you as the author choose to tell it. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder @KarenninaPosa IMHO no. You aren't looking for distilled "kid voice" but for distinct quirks of human language. iCarly isn't real #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @jmaschari: I love Goonies as a classic middle grade study - that movie really nails what it is to be a kid (so does Super 8) #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @PippaBayliss @KrisYankee @earthwards My mg that comes out next fall in is first person, but the one I am revising now is in 3rd. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz My other voice advice (not that I'm an expert, mind you): keep the writing uncluttered. It will allow the voice to shine through. #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto Voice is the heart of each of my stories, i.e. they can only happen to this person who sees the world this way #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson RT @LaurelSnyder: @KarenninaPosa IMHO no. You aren't looking for distilled "kid voice" but for distinct quirks of human language. iCarly isn't real #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @DanyelleLeafty @KrisYankee @KarenninaPosa The kids have no sense of respect for authority. That part I don't like. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards I also think voice will depend on your ability to go back in time a bit. Strip away all the adult, get down to the wonder again #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny RT @elissacruz: My other voice advice (not that I'm an expert, mind you): keep the writing uncluttered. It will allow the voice to shine through. #MGlitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @rachelgrinti Definitely, and it helps to know the slang - nothing that cheapens a voice more when you feel the adult writing it #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss :) RT @KrisYankee: RT @jmaschari: I love Goonies #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder @KrisYankee @jmaschari LOVED that movie. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @rachelgrinti - And I think that's what's so special and difficult about capturing the middle grade voice #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @elissacruz Uncluttered - YES! allow the language and voice to shine through! #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa @LaurelSnyder Interesting thought. Voice in books isn't necessarily "real" either, but could be considered distilled too. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 1st, 2011
coachhays64 Great description of voice. @deegarretson see the world through the character's eyes and background and you will get the voice #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss I don't know that HP had a strong voice - but Rowling's narration did. Am I wrong? #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore If you're trying to base your authenticity on kid's shows, remember that adults write those. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @PippaBayliss @karenninaposa I don't think Disney tv is a great example of way real kids act & interact. Maybe it's the acting. #MGlitchat -7:24 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @JoWhittemore: If you're trying to base your authenticity on kid's shows, remember that adults write those. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Maybe voice is simply confident writing. #MGlitchat -7:24 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets @elissacruz #mglitchat grateful to my tweens--knew they'd come in handy soon- try hanging in places where kids are,but intimacy must help. -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub @jmaschari @elissacruz Argh, I'm new at tweeting and keep forgetting the hashtag thingie. Sorry for direct tweets. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @rachelgrinti - I think a lot of us remember and can connect with our teen years, but not as much the ages 9-12 #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @earthwards: I also think voice will depend on your ability to go back in time a bit. Strip away all the adult, get down to the wonder again #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee I think we have 2 remember 9-12yro don't have the life experience like a 30,40yrold. Have to get back to their worries. Not ours #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jjhoutman RT @love8rockets: @elissacruz #mglitchat grateful to my tweens--knew they'd come in handy soon- try hanging in places where kids are,but intimacy must help. -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson @LaurelSnyder @karenninaposa I find the characters on tv shows to be too snarky compared to most real kids #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards So true. MG, at it's foundation, is wonder. Something we forget as we age sometimes. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @JoWhittemore: If youre trying to base your authenticity on kids shows, remember that adults write those. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop Voice and POV are unique and individual. "Room" is not MG, but the voice is nailed and maintained throughout. All thru his eyes. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @JoanHolub No problem :) If you try Tweet Chat sometime, it will add it automatically! #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
coachhays64 RT @timothypower67: Maybe voice is simply confident writing. #MGlitchat -7:25 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @jmaschari Yes, I often tell new writers that sometimes beauty must be sacrificed for clarity. #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoAnnYhard RT @KrisYankee: I think we have 2 remember 9-12yro don't have the life experience like a 30,40yrold. Have to get back to their worries. Not ours #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @earthwards: I also think voice will depend on your ability to go back in time a bit. Strip away all the adult, get down to the wonder again #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore @KrisYankee Or our worries at their age. :-) Some worries are the same no matter the generation. #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub @WaldenPondPress @rachelgrinti #mglitchat Why do you think that is, Walden? -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa There's a degree of disrespect in all MG-ers, IMO. Trying to find their boundaries, etc. Else, there'd be no adventure. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 The MG kid inside us hasn't gone away! #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @KrisYankee - Exactly - what makes the MG voice one of the hardest to capture, in my opinion #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @elissacruz And sometimes clarity is beauty. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @JoWhittemore Good point, even the issues they face aren't true to life AND they're all going for laughs which makes a huge diff #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly RT @KrisYankee: I think we have 2 remember 9-12yro don't have the life experience like a 30,40yrold. Have to get back to their worries. Not ours #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @KarenninaPosa: There's a degree of disrespect in all MG-ers, IMO. Trying to find their boundaries, etc. Else, there'd be no adventure. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @jmaschari Exactly. #MGlitchat -7:27 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @DanyelleLeafty Definitely! Even once we hit our teens, we think we know everything. MG feels much more 'open' to wondering #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @JoWhittemore Yes, that is true! But they don't have mortgages/debt/jobs..but they do have heartache, fear, doubt..same things #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub @jmaschari Thanks, I'll look into it. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @timothypower67 I remember my MG years so vividly. And my sense of humor is still at that level. :) #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa So TV MG = an exaggerated version of what we're trying to show in books, perhaps? #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop And what an MC "knows" comes only thru the life they've lived to date- even if that is not the life most/typical are living. #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz Okay, I've shared all I know about voice. #sadbuttrue #MGlitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto @elissacruz @jmaschari got that very advice from a playwriting professor years back :) #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @deegarretson @laurelsnyder @karenninaposa Yikes! The kids I taught in my fifth grade classes were full of snark. #MGlitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore @KrisYankee Exactly! #MGlitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @WaldenPondPress Agreed! I love MG, but I think it is very tricky to write. #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
rachelgrinti RT @elissacruz: @jmaschari Yes, I often tell new writers that sometimes beauty must be sacrificed for clarity. #MGlitchat -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jjhoutman #mglitchat 'Night all. My MG kids have to go to school tomorrow, and I have to wake them up. -7:28 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @jjhoutman It was great having you! #mglitchat -7:29 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @michaelascotto @jmaschari Good. 'Cause I just made it up myself and hoped I was right. ;) #MGlitchat -7:29 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @jjhoutman Bye! Thanks for stopping by. #MGlitchat -7:29 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly Yes!! “@KarenninaPosa: There's a degree of disrespect in all MG-ers, IMO. Trying to find their boundaries, etc. #mglitchat” -7:29 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @elissacruz @michaelascotto HA!! #mglitchat -7:29 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore For me, the years that are easiest to write are the years that were toughest to live. Ingrained much deeper in memory. #MGlitchat -7:29 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa @librarykelly Maybe they watch too much snarky TV? :) #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee RT @librarykelly: Yes!! “@KarenninaPosa: Theres a degree of disrespect in all MG-ers, IMO. Trying to find their boundaries, etc. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @ JoanHolub - Sorry Joan, I think I missed your reference - why the MG voice is hard to capture? #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @jmaschari @timothypower67 Same here :) #MGlitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder I think need to recognize that it's different book to book. Dahl is not Blume is not Rowling is not DiCamillo. All have voice. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
marylindsey RT @WaldenPondPress: When we review submissions, voice plays a huge role. Editing can do a lot, but w/o a strong voice it's hard for us tomove forward #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto @KrisYankee @JoWhittemore at that age they feel worries more deeply...at least they're more on the surfsce #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz So, define a strong voice. #Idareyou #MGlitchat -7:30 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @elissacruz You've helped me considerably! #MGlitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
Sayantani16 RT @LaurelSnyder: I think need to recognize that it's different book to book. Dahl is not Blume is not Rowling is not DiCamillo. All have voice. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @michaelascotto @KrisYankee @JoWhittemore YES! Because they don't have the confidence that "all will be well" Don't have tools #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoanHolub @WaldenPondPress Exactly. Why more so than other ages? #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari I honestly think MG is one of the hardest voices to get "right" -must be authentic + engaging - MGers can see fake right away #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto (that wasn't a typo, of course, it was part of my 'voice') ;) #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @elissacruz: So, define a strong voice. #Idareyou #MGlitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen Maybe some of us are still eleven on the inside:) And yes, I am still waiting for my owl from Hogwarts. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Voice is just confident writing. Immediate readerly trust in the story. #MGlitchat -7:31 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson @librarykelly I guess I'm thinking more of the snark that hits later on, different types of snark? #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @michaelascotto: (that wasn't a typo, of course, it was part of my 'voice') ;) #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DiandraMae RT @timothypower67: Voice is just confident writing. Immediate readerly trust in the story. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @elissacruz A story without a good voice is like a shark without teeth - it's moving around out there, but there's no bite. =D #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @librarykelly Oh yay! I'm so glad! (But I'm not an expert, so take my words with a grain of salt. You've been warned.) #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @earthwards: @elissacruz A story without a good voice is like a shark without teeth - it's moving around out there, but there's no bite. =D #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore @elissacruz Strong voice is one that stays with you and makes you love a character. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @KarenninaPosa Perhaps. But these kids don't have it too good. I can only imagine what home is for them. Some snark is justified. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
Deborahkops RT @WaldenPondPress: When we review submissions, voice plays a huge role. Editing can do a lot, but w/o a strong voice it's hard for us tomove forward #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty Strong voice is the character unencumbered by the author--free to tell their own story, their way. #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
love8rockets RT @JoWhittemore: @elissacruz Strong voice is one that stays with you and makes you love a character. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @deegarretson @librarykelly How about different levels of snark? I sure had a lot 2day from 12yo! #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Ha! I tweeted that so confidently. :) #MGlitchat -7:33 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Do you find that authorial voice intrudes more on character voice in 3rd POV than in 1st? #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder Voice is what makes book distinct. We could all write a book with same plot, about same character. Voice would make em different. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @KarenninaPosa I think it depends on how well the author is listening when they write. I've seen it happen both ways. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @elissacruz Challenge extended! #MGlitchat -7:33 PM Sep 1st, 2011
coachhays64 @librarykelly @deegarretson @laurelsnyder Good snark or bad snark? Don't we all have a little snarkiness which to relate to MG? #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 I hate a talky narrator! #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @KarenninaPosa In the mss I review for small press, 3rd pov pulls me out more often = authorial voice #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen Reading strong voice makes you feel, "Dang! I'll never write anything that good." #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @KarenninaPosa For me, it is much easier to identify with a character I am writing in 1st than in 3rd #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @JoanHolub - I've always thought it's easier for adults to connect with their teen voice b/c they are simply closer to us #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore @michaelascotto @krisyankee Yes, more willing to wear the heart on the sleeve. #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @KarenninaPosa No. Sometimes an author just doesn't realize how much his/her voice is "tainting" character's voice, even in 1st. #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @elissacruz: @KarenninaPosa No. Sometimes an author just doesn't realize how much his/her voice is "tainting" character's voice, even in 1st. #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee Me too. RT @jmaschari: @KarenninaPosa For me, it is much easier to identify with a character I am writing in 1st than in 3rd #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
coachhays64 RT @LaurelSnyder: Voice is what makes book distinct. We could all write a book with same plot, about same character. Voice would make em different. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @timothypower67 I love a talky narrator. Sorry but true. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @JoanHolub - Whereas the tween years are a bit harder to grasp - how did you think then? how would you react in diff. situations? #mglitchat -7:35 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @deegarretson If we use that word much more, it will have no meaning! But I know what your saying. #MGlitchat -7:35 PM Sep 1st, 2011
brittanydhoward RT @WaldenPondPress: When we review submissions, voice plays a huge role. Editing can do a lot, but w/o a strong voice it's hard for us tomove forward #mglitchat -7:35 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @story_queen @timothypower67 I think the important thing is that the narrator fits the story. #mglitchat -7:35 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @story_queen @timothypower67 imo a narrator is a character voice, not necessarily the authorial voice. #MGlitchat -7:35 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee Exactly! It was Bel Canto 4 me RT @story_queen: Reading strong voice makes you feel, "Dang! Ill never write anything that good." #mglitchat -7:35 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 @story_queen That's okay! Sometimes I like it, too. #confessiontime #MGlitchat -7:35 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PHCMarchesi RT @WaldenPondPress: When we review submissions, voice plays a huge role. Editing can do a lot, but w/o a strong voice it's hard for us tomove forward #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa True. Still, we aspire. :) @story_queen Reading strong voice makes you feel, "Dang! I'll never write anything that good." #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss I maintain voice = personality. Some of us have it, some don't. MC's and writers. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @WaldenPondPress @JoanHolub I think it's hard, in part, because Tweens are truly at an in between stage. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @LaurelSnyder Now THAT would be a writing exercise! And good point! #MGlitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @joanholub I think it's easier to answer those questions for an adult/teen character, but harder to get into the head of a 9-12yo #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Talky to me means too intrusive. #MGlitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards For me, voice is *always* the thing that grabs me first. Makes me flip the page, or put the book down. It just takes over. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @coachhays64 @deegarretson @laurelsnyder Absolutely. #MGlitchat -7:36 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee Love this! RT @PippaBayliss: I maintain voice = personality. Some of us have it, some dont. MCs and writers. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @earthwards: For me, voice is *always* the thing that grabs me first. Makes me flip the page, or put the book down. It just takes over. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly RT @story_queen: Reading strong voice makes you feel, "Dang! I'll never write anything that good." #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @DanyelleLeafty @timothypower67 Very true. a mismatch of voice and story is not good. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @KrisYankee @story_queen Except when it's your own work. Then it's "Dang! I can't believe I wrote something that good!" #MGlitchat -7:37 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards Me too! Story without voice is just a dead tree. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 As a reader, I don't like feeling that the narrator is biding his/her time. On with the story! #MGlitchat -7:37 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @earthwards Those with the best voice are always the characters I want to know in real life - they feel authentic and realized. #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @elissacruz @KrisYankee @story_queen (Not that I've experienced this first hand or anything.) #MGlitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @elissacruz @KrisYankee @story_queen I'm not the only one who has done that? (blushes) #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @DanyelleLeafty That's ridiculously well said. :-) Writers! Find the voice! Don't make trees die needlessly! ;-) #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards *grin* Thanks! I'm all about saving the trees. :p #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss In some ways MG can be more diverse with voice than YA. MG's are still learning how to conform to the norm. #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
spajonas @earthwards so true! I almost put down a recent release bc the voice was very muddled and jumped around too much. #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto RT @jmaschari: Those with the best voice are always the characters I want to know in real life - they feel authentic and realized #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @elissacruz @KrisYankee @story_queen I'm sure you have. We all have those lines or pages where we go-HUH? That was A.W.E.S.O.M.E! #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @jmaschari Same here - and when the book is done, I always want to know what they're 'doing now' - power of voice! #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @timothypower67 When I think intrusive narrator, I think Lemony Snicket...and I kind of crush on him a bit. #sadbuttrue #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop You know you've got the voice when kids want to know what they character is doing now, even though the book has ended. #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress Exactly - where there's no spark, there's no fireRT @DanyelleLeafty: @earthwards Me too! Story without voice is just a dead tree. #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly Question: The MC went through a huge transformation over the course of the MS. The voice will change right? Somewhat? #MGlitchat -7:39 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @PippaBayliss Definitely more diverse. MG development is spread so wide. #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari Anyone read Because of Mr. Terupt? Great study of voice + MG - author nails the voice of each character + POV #mglitchat -7:40 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 @story_queen Ha! He's the best! There are some pretty pale Lemonys out there though... #MGlitchat -7:40 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @WaldenPondPress @earthwards So we must do our best to save the trees--start forest fires. #voiceisamusthave #mglitchat -7:40 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @WaldenPondPress: Exactly - where there's no spark, there's no fireRT @DanyelleLeafty: @earthwards Me too! Story without voice is just a dead tree. #mglitchat -7:40 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @librarykelly I think it *could* change a bit - maybe grow wiser. Depends upon the situation. #mglitchat -7:40 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Lemonys who try too hard=sour! #MGlitchat -7:41 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @elissacruz @KrisYankee Okay...so maybe once or twice I have surprised myself. That is the BEST part of writing! #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny @story_queen I did too! I wish Lemony Snicket wrote those book when *I* was in MG! #sadbuttrue #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards @DanyelleLeafty @WaldenPondPress *mind blown* That was a wicked metaphor medley right there. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Yes! RT @PBWorkshop You know you've got the voice when kids want to know what character is doing now, though the book has ended. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 1st, 2011
Pam_Vickers RT @WaldenPondPress: When we review submissions, voice plays a huge role. Editing can do a lot, but w/o a strong voice it's hard for us tomove forward #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards @WaldenPondPress Explosions fit right in that there metaphor too. O:) #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @story_queen @elissacruz @KrisYankee I agree! When I have glimpses of those times, I think, "Okay, I can do this!" #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @story_queen @elissacruz @KrisYankee Okay, me too, but it never lasts through another revision. So it doesn't count. #MGlitchat -7:42 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @timothypower67 Now I want to write a book called Pale Lemony. No idea of the plot, but I love the title! #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile my favorite MG voice: The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo. Certain sentences still stick with me, years later. #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @KarenninaPosa: Yes! RT @PBWorkshop You know you've got the voice when kids want to know what character is doing now, though the book has ended. #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss Whose is your fave MG voice??? #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @DanyelleLeafty @earthwards - Wicked, indeed! Still wrapping my head around it... #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @KrisYankee That's what I mean; she goes from being spoiled drama queen to a matured, confident young woman. Life events & such. #MGlitchat -7:43 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @elissacruz @story_queen It counts! It has to count. You need those times of confidence. : ) #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @elissacruz @KrisYankee It doesn't have to last, it just has to happen on occasion. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @jkbibliophile YES! and Because of Winn Dixie! #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Chas. Dickens is one intrusive narrator I can really get behind. #MGlitchat -7:44 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile also a favorite: Lemony Snicket. Oh, and Lloyd Alexander. Aggh! Too many! can't choose. :( #mglitchat -7:44 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @librarykelly Yes, then I think her voice should change a bit, but not completely. You want the reader to still know her. #mglitchat -7:44 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @PippaBayliss I LOVE Skinnybones by Barbara Park for voice! Still remember Alex Frankovitch years later! #mglitchat -7:44 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LaurelSnyder Contemp fave: Polly Horvath in The canning Season. Favorite forever voice: Probably James Thurber in 13 Clocks. SO DIFFERENT. #mglitchat -7:44 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @themediabunny I know!! unfair. But Roald was awesome. (And I loved Betty Mcdonald's Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle books!) #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto 1st person voice I loved: Turtle in Paradise. 3rd person: Peter Nimble and his Fantastic Eyes #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore #mglitchat Whatever the voice, make sure it has a dash of contrast. Nobody is always dark/optimistic/romantic/loveless. Show some humanity! -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @jmaschari SKINNEYBONES was one of my favorites as a child. :) #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Kate DiCamillo's The Magician's Elephant transported me #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop All time faves- each of the characters in the Wrinkle In Time series. They've stayed with me for decades! #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Louise Fitzhugh's was the first voice I really fell in love with. #MGlitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @PippaBayliss Oh gosh! I would do better to name the ones I don't care for. But I'm not gonna! :) I adore so many! #MGlitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop Another (debate among yourselves if it is MG or not)- Scout and family froim To Kill a Mockingbird #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa RT @JoWhittemore Whatever the voice, make sure it has a dash of contrast. Nobody is always dark/optimistic/romantic/loveless... #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny Love Lemony Snicket (I'd follow that voice anywhere) and the voice in Judy Blume's Fudge books. Love. #MGlitchat -7:46 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile Okay, okay, new fave: Louis Sachar (ANY of his books, but mostly Wayside Stories from Wayside School--anyone know it?) #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @KrisYankee Thank you! Mainly she lays off the hyperbole. Mostly. #MGlitchat -7:46 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari Best Christmas Pageant Ever - also, awesome voice - Hey! Unto you a child is born! #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 1st, 2011
Klzfawcett RT @LaurelSnyder: Voice is what makes book distinct. We could all write a book with same plot, about same character. Voice would make em different. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @jmaschari: Best Christmas Pageant Ever - also, awesome voice - Hey! Unto you a child is born! #mglitchat -7:47 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @KrisYankee I'd be dragging my knuckles in the dirt if it weren't for moments of short, mad delusions about my own brilliance #mglitchat -7:47 PM Sep 1st, 2011
word_working #mglitchat Has anyone ever read 'Look Through My Window' by Jean Little (circa 1970 or so)? Wonderful voice and one of my all-time favorites -7:47 PM Sep 1st, 2011
story_queen @Ryann_Murphy Seriously??? I am SO getting one of those!! #mglitchat -7:47 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop Also Hugo Cabret- from ...what else? #mglitchat -7:47 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @librarykelly : ) #mglitchat -7:47 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @jkbibliophile Yes! Yes! Yes! #MGlitchat -7:48 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny @jkbibliophile Sachar is amazing. The Wayside books occupy permanent space on my shelf. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @themediabunny That is so interesting- I don't like the Lemony voice though I def feels like he has one (voice that is!) #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @PippaBayliss I think we all would. We have to be confident writers. It shows in our writing when we aren't. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @librarykelly sounds like this is about her perspective changing - still the same person, but something new has opened up for her #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop Little rocks!RT @word_working: #mglitchat Look Through My Window by Jean Little (circa 1970 or so)? Wonderful voice #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile RT @KrisYankee: @PippaBayliss I think we all would. We have to be confident writers. It shows in our writing when we aren't. #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny @jmaschari When I read the books, I was floored. The story would be totally dif. in another POV (another marker of strong voice!) #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress The Wednesday Wars = one of my all-time favorites for voice - #1 character I would like to meet? Holling Hoodhood #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz Okay, so, anyone care to share tips on ways to nurture voice (or make it better/stronger)? #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @themediabunny I do agree with that! #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile Agree w/ @PippaBayliss: Confidence is key in authentic voice. If u can't trust yourself, you're reader won't trust u either. #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @jkbibliophile: Agree w/ @PippaBayliss: Confidence is key in authentic voice. If u can't trust yourself, you're reader won't trust u either. #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Nurture your voice by reading your writing out loud. #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @themediabunny @jkbibliophile YES - Anything Louis Sachar - THE CARDTURNER has a fantastic voice too (of course, HOLES) #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JoWhittemore @elissacruz Don't force it and don't fight it. :-) #MGlitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty For me, it's all about shutting myself out and just listening. Hard not to think sometimes. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
TheCliffhangers @elissacruz A strong voice feels alive. It just IS. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari RT 1000 percent yes! @timothypower67: Nurture your voice by reading your writing out loud. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Tip: Read lots of books with strong and unique voices, in many genres. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny @elissacruz I'd also ask yourself "Could this story be told, as is, from anyone else's perspective?" #MGlitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop And having others read it to you. RT @timothypower67: Nurture your voice by reading your writing out loud. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile RT @JoWhittemore: @elissacruz Don't force it and don't fight it. :-) #MGlitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @KarenninaPosa: Tip: Read lots of books with strong and unique voices, in many genres. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @WaldenPondPress Yes! @librarykelly So many to love - I'm into Flora Segunda atm #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 1st, 2011
LianaBrooks RT @KarenninaPosa: Tip: Read lots of books with strong and unique voices, in many genres. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @WaldenPondPress Good point. Hmm, must think on this. More reflective...this isn't the place :) Thanks 4 the insight. #MGlitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
TheCliffhangers RT @KarenninaPosa: Tip: Read lots of books with strong and unique voices, in many genres. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
coachhays64 RT @timothypower67: Nurture your voice by reading your writing out loud. #MGlitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards RT @DanyelleLeafty: RT @KarenninaPosa: Tip: Read lots of books with strong and unique voices, in many genres. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
timothypower67 Reading your writing out loud: your brain can fool you, your ears seldom do! #MGlitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty Being aware of the voice is a good starting place too. Hard to write if you can't hear it. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
Sayantani16 Gr8 MG Voices: DiCamillo Magician's Elephant (smart, magical, lyrical), RW. Garcia One Crazy Summer (social commentary & beauty) #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss RT @TheCliffhangers: @elissacruz A strong voice feels alive. It just IS. (dammit!) #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Tip (aka reminders to myself): Let your inner artist free. Play with words. Have fun. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 1st, 2011
Sayantani16 RT @LaurelSnyder: Voice is what makes book distinct. We could all write a book with same plot, about same character. Voice would make em different. #mglitchat -7:53 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @elissacruz Honestly, hang around kids - get to know them, what they like, how they interact with others, what they do. #mglitchat -7:53 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto RT @PBWorkshop: And having others read it to you. RT @timothypower67: Nurture your voice by reading your writing out loud. #mglitchat -7:53 PM Sep 1st, 2011
kimberlypurcell RT @LaurelSnyder: Voice is what makes book distinct. We could all write a book with same plot, about same character. Voice would make em different. #mglitchat -7:53 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa More tips (aka reminders to myself) - Give characters homework: Write a letter with a purpose. Love letter, job application, etc. #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 1st, 2011
pursuingthemuse #MGlitchat do the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books fall into MG? The voice is what cracks me up. #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress @PippaBayliss - Ah, another great one! #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz My tip: find a crit partner who can nail MG voice. #onlypartlykidding #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile and experiment! Write the same scene in 5 different voices; you won't find your real one if you don't weed out the fakes. #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile RT @jmaschari: @elissacruz Honestly, hang around kids - get to know them, what they like, how they interact with others, what they do. #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 1st, 2011
WaldenPondPress RT @LaurelSnyder: Voice is what makes book distinct. We could all write a book with same plot, about same character. Voice would make em different. #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly Now that's a terrific friend! “@michaelascotto: RT @PBWorkshop: And having others read it to you. #MGlitchat -7:55 PM Sep 1st, 2011
coachhays64 Also helps with pace & flow. @timothypower67 Reading your writing out loud: your brain can fool you, your ears seldom do! #MGlitchat -7:55 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @pursuingthemuse Yes. :) #mglitchat -7:55 PM Sep 1st, 2011
pursuingthemuse RT @timothypower67: Reading your writing out loud: your brain can fool you, your ears seldom do! #MGlitchat -7:55 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Yes! RT @timothypower67 Reading your writing out loud: your brain can fool you, your ears seldom do! #mglitchat -7:55 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @pursuingthemuse Yes! Definitely MG though some jokes are definitely for the adults :) #mglitchat -7:55 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jkbibliophile and btw DON'T sit outside playgrounds listening to kids to try and pick up voice. just sayin' ;) #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards I think empathy is the best tool for finding voice. Put yourself in others' shoes a lot, and you'll have a good roster to try out #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz Okay, my real tip: Weed out the unnecessary words so your voice has room enough to emerge. #MGlitchat -7:56 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @pursuingthemuse I def. found some parts more amusing than my students did in Wimpy Kid just due to life experience #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @jkbibliophile Ha - wise words. #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @earthwards: I think empathy is the best tool for finding voice. Put yourself in others' shoes a lot, and you'll have a good roster to try out #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee Agree 100% RT @elissacruz: Okay, my real tip: Weed out the unnecessary words so your voice has room enough to emerge. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari RT @earthwards: I think empathy is the best tool for finding voice. Put yourself in others shoes a lot... #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop Great revision guide. RT @elissacruz: Okay, my real tip: Weed out the unnecessary words so your voice has room enough to emerge. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards Very well said! To find the voice, you have to be able to empathize with your character. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 1st, 2011
themediabunny @jkbibliophile LOL! #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 1st, 2011
CatholicFoodie RT @timothypower67: Nurture your voice by reading your writing out loud. #MGlitchat -7:57 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson great example of voice dev by seeing world through MC's eyes THE BOY WHO HOWLED Tim Power boy raised by wolves #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto @elissacruz I've found rewriting by hand to be immensely useful re: weeding out the unnecessary #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss I'm jotting down these tips - thanx for your wisdomosity you fabbity-folk (yes, I do talk like this = I'm stranger than fiction) #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop @jmaschari @pursuingthemuse Adult v.Kid view of Wimpy Kid is like parents taking tykes to Shrek movies-written by adults for kids #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KarenninaPosa Last tip (aka reminder to myself): Revise. And again. And yet again. But not too much. #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @michaelascotto Me, too. I almost always revise with a printed ms and a pencil/pen. #MGlitchat -7:59 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly This was such a helpful and insightful chat! #MGlitchat Thank you everyone! -7:59 PM Sep 1st, 2011
deegarretson must go, phone battery a goner #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @PBWorkshop YES! you have hit on it exactly - def. an enjoyment factor for kids but A LOT of grown-up humor #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee It's been fun chatting. Gotta get the MGers to bed, and me, too! #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 1st, 2011
word_working @elissacruz Wrote my story from instinct-what came to me & felt right (which likely means I've broken all sorts of fiction rules).#mglitchat -8:00 PM Sep 1st, 2011
KrisYankee @elissacruz I edit on hard copy exclusively. I don't see everything on the screen. #mglitchat -8:00 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @PippaBayliss Hey! Can I borrow wisdomosity? #MGlitchat -8:00 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss A thought: Voice bridges all age gaps. If it's good you wanna read it no matter how young/old you are. #mglitchat -8:00 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PBWorkshop Thanks to all. I always plan to just lurk and then I dive right in- such generous sharing of experience and insights by all. #mglitchat -8:00 PM Sep 1st, 2011
earthwards Thanks for the awesome chat, all! The *highest* of fives to you! =D #mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari RT @PippaBayliss: A thought: Voice bridges all age gaps. If its good you wanna read it no matter how young/old you are. #mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 1st, 2011
librarykelly @KarenninaPosa :-D Yeah me too! #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 1st, 2011
michaelascotto @PippaBayliss that's a great ending thought #mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 1st, 2011
DanyelleLeafty You guys are awesome! Thanks for the incredible chat! :) #mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari @PippaBayliss What a great thought! :) #mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 1st, 2011
elissacruz @word_working Hey, I've heard that you can break any rule as long as you do it well. ;) #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jmaschari I look forward to discussing MG lit with all of you each week. :) Love this chat - I always take so much from it. #mglitchat -8:02 PM Sep 1st, 2011
JenniferCEstes GAH! Missed #mglitchat ! Can't wait to read the transcript! -8:02 PM Sep 1st, 2011
jimhill @earthwards One day I'll remember to check in on #mglitchat *sigh* -8:02 PM Sep 1st, 2011
PippaBayliss @librarykelly @PippaBayliss LOL using my words is the greatest form of flattery ;) #mglitchat -8:02 PM Sep 1st, 2011
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