February 2nd - Tips from the Pros- Author Night

JoWhittemore Ladies and gentlemen, tonight's Supah Special MGLitChat is ON! #mglitchat -9:00 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder @kurtisscaletta I'm just going to tweet numbers and colors at random. #mglitchat -9:00 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta @LaurelSnyder Great. Should be interesting. Just waiting for @JoWhittemore to give us the official kick off. #mglitchat -9:00 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

christinesarmel Hi #mglitchat -9:01 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore The faboo @KDuBayGillis is my co-host tonight as we glean some wisdom from several awesome MG authors. #mglitchat -9:01 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

PBWorkshop Camped out here- eyeballs greased and chip clip on my lips. Somebody say "GO!". #mglitchat -9:01 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore But first...a couple rules for tonight's chat, as it's a slightly different format. #mglitchat -9:02 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore and I were thinking it would be good to let our esteemed guests take the floor and share first before questions. #mglitchat -9:03 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Mike_Jung Superstar lineup tonight, yo. #mglitchat -9:03 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore To start tonight's chat, the authors will openly share their tips and words of wisdom. Please hold your questions at this time. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis My twitter timing is bad, so sorry if I'm jumping the gun @JoWhittemore #mglitchat -9:04 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner Wait...We were supposed to bring words of wisdom?? #mglitchat -9:04 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

michaelascotto Evening, MG friends! #mglitchat -9:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder But... I'm not wise. Now, if you want yammering, I can yammer. #mglitchat -9:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore Please be respectful of each other & our guests! :-) And when we open the floor for questions, push aside that shy feeling & go! #mglitchat -9:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @KateMessner You don't keep those in your back pocket? #mglitchat -9:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @KDuBayGillis Thank you for having a prompt. :) #mglitchat -9:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @KateMessner Anything you say will be deemed wise. Go for it! #mglitchat -9:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder Hey, you know how to make Passover food. That's wisdom! #mglitchat -9:06 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta Success is the growth of a tree and not the flight of a goose. #mglitchat -9:06 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @KDuBayGillis Something I'm dealing with right now is remembering that MG spans a lot of ages... #mglitchat -9:06 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KristineAsselin Checking in at #mglitchat -9:06 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner For me, tapping into that MG voice means remembering what it felt like to be 10, 11, 12 yrs old. You're figuring out so much. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

PippaBayliss @JoWhittemore shy feeling? really? what if I have to bow in adoration? #mglitchat -9:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

jennreese What do I keep in mind? Since I write adventure stories, I often focus on sense of wonder. And friendships. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford ...and not having preconceived ideas about the stories I'm working on--letting them skew younger or older as the stories require. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner Best advice I give myself every day? Yes, you can. Now sit down and write. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

ixtumea @KateMessner Kate, you get it. I hate reading MGs where the 10 yr old sounds so mature. I'm like I have a 10 yr old #mglitchat -9:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @JoWhittemore One thing I've been thinking about a lot is how differently I write in 1st and 3rd person... #mglitchat -9:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @PippaBayliss They will accept genuflection. :-) But all chocolate gifts should be turned over to me for...holding. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @KateMessner I swear, I don't feel like I've advanced all that much at 35. Still figuring stuff out. :) #mglitchat -9:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMilford That's interesting, Kate. I just cut a HOOKER today, from my MG. I think sometimes I don't think enough about age. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis RT @KateMessner: Best advice I give myself every day? Yes, you can. Now sit down and write. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @jennreese Boy, that's a good one. Fostering a sense of wonder--I wish nobody ever lost that. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

ixtumea @KateMessner And trust me he's not anything like some of these mcs. Also work with Webelos who are 10-11. They're not either. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford RT @KateMessner: Best advice I give myself every day? Yes, you can. Now sit down and write. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall RT @WaldenPondPress: Reminder: #mglitchat is about to start (9pm ET)! Tonight: Tips from some very well respected authors! http://t.co/Zm70aCwf -9:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @KateMilford Actually, I knew who I was at 10, lost sight of that when I was a teen & have been finding my way back ever since. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

MsKurf RT @KateMessner: Best advice I give myself every day? Yes, you can. Now sit down and write. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder You write differently for 1st & 3rd? Voice, you mean? #mglitchat -9:10 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder 1 thing I've been working on is not assuming that MG means simple, in terms of language, image. I find reading adult poetry helps #mglitchat -9:10 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder Wowsers. That would be funny, except in TBL I had to figure out how to be subtle about a girl who grew up... #mglitchat -9:10 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta I feel like if I was too honest about being 12 or 13 the book would be "too much for middle grade." #mglitchat -9:10 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @laurelsnyder ...in a house of prostitution. :/ Difficult. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner Yes, this, me too. I feel this way. Like I lost something as a kid, that I'm working at returning to. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @LaurelSnyder Oh how I wish I could have read that version #mglitchat @KateMilford -9:11 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @kurtisscaletta You mean with maturity of content. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall hi all. ready to listen and learn! #mglitchat -9:11 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @KateMessner Really! That's amazing. I HATED the year I was ten. :) I remember some specific awkwardnesses. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMilford Julianna Baggott has a book for adults, The Madam, about a girl growing up in a brothel. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul #mglitchat - I'm compiling a spring booklist and need recommendations for a good MG book on the theme of change or new beginnings. Ideas? -9:12 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KDuBayGillis It's all very vague and chiffony. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @kurtisscaletta And yet, not quite YA, right? I really wish more retailers had tween sections. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall RT @KateMessner: Best advice I give myself every day? Yes, you can. Now sit down and write. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder I tried really hard to make it something a younger reader could entirely miss, but older readers could figure out. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner One thing I'm finding fascinating now is how characters, as they develop, send a carefully plotted outline in new directions. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa Note to self: RT @LaurelSnyder @KateMessner I feel this way. Like I lost something as a kid, that Im working at returning to. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @Miranda_Paul You are looking for Laurel's book, BIGGER THAN A BREADBOX. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder We are completely in agreement about reading poetry. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMilford I hate these lines. I adore MG, but I think there's got to be a range. In 5th grade I read VC Andrews. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa @KateMessner How closely do you follow the outline in that case? #mglitchat -9:14 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @KateMessner And you can't convince them to stay on the original path, no matter how hard you try! #mglitchat -9:14 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

SarahDarerLitt @KateMessner They are unruly little so and sos aren't they? Kind of like....REAL KIDS. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

lisabrowndraws RT @LaurelSnyder: @KateMilford I hate these lines. I adore MG, but I think there's got to be a range. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @KarenninaPosa I don't. I follow the characters and make a new outline later. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner YES! I do an excercise with kids about this. Where we write a revised Harry Potter, and then ask what he'd DO? #mglitchat -9:15 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @KateMessner How true this is! I had to rewrite chapter 5 completely of my WIP recently #mglitchat -9:15 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta Sorry folks, I'm having trouble keeping up. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMilford I find it challenges my prose. There's the plotting we do, that's restricted in ways. But the language shouldn't be. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

jennreese @kurtisscaletta I know exactly what you mean. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @KateMessner Thank you Kate! I'm going to check it out right now. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner I think you have to do this, have to "get out of the way of the book." Trying to control too much is death. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta Fling your MG tips out there and we'll pounce with questions for you in a bit. (Talk arcs...you do that well!) #mglitchat -9:17 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder Oh, that's awesome. I love that idea. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

samclarkwrites RT @KateMessner: Best advice I give myself every day? Yes, you can. Now sit down and write. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

wendyorr @LaurelSnyder @@JoWhittemore I agree re dif in writing 1 st or 3rd person. Some books started in 3rd, had to start again in 1st #mglitchat -9:17 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @jennreese #MGLitChat You do know you're promoting another service with this. -9:17 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder I have never had anyone ask me to tone down the language in my writing, unless some weird thing confuses the editor #mglitchat -9:17 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @JoWhittemore Like, we rewrite him as NOT AN ORPHAN, or as a flirty girl, or a bully, and then send him to Hogwarts. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @wendyorr I also think rewriting a bit in first can be a good way to find voice, tone, even if the book gets written in third. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

PippaBayliss Good news for me! RT @KateMilford: @LaurelSnyder I have never had anyone ask me to tone down the language in my writing #mglitchat -9:18 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @jennreese @kurtisscaletta We'd love to know what helps you write for an MG audience...how you get the MG voice, etc. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford So I guess that's a tip. Don't let the young audience keep you from writing gorgeous prose if that's what you want to write. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder Hehe! Flirty girl. Love it. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

SarahDarerLitt RT @LaurelSnyder: @KateMessner U have to do this, have to "get out of the way of the book." Trying to control too much is death. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMilford This is true, but I've never heard anyone say it! I think surprisingly prose is rarely revised out. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

RainTownPress @LaurelSnyder @KateMilford I think that's true of any book, but mg characters tend to have a special energy to them. -Lucy #mglitchat -9:19 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner When I'm working to make secondary characters (esp. villains) seem 3-dimensional, I write in their points of view for a while. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder Confusing prose, yes, but surprising, elegant, poetic prose? No. That gets to stay. :) #mglitchat -9:20 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @KateMessner How long is awhile? #mglitchat -9:20 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

SarahDarerLitt Don't underestimate kids! RT@KateMilford: Dont let young audience keep u fr writing gorgeous prose if thats what u want to write. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

WaldenPondPress Interesting:RT kurtisscaletta I feel like if I was too honest about being 12 or 13 the book would be "too much for middle grade." #mglitchat -9:21 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @KateMessner That's awesome. I'd be afraid that I'd get carried away, and be traumatized when I had to cut their povs! #mglitchat -9:21 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner Ooh. I've never tried this. But I've been thinking about doing a book in multiple 1st person voices... #mglitchat -9:21 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

RainTownPress @KateMessner That can also make for a fun extra on your website later, or even a novella! -Lucy #mglitchat -9:21 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall following #mglitchat for a bit, then off to #wipmadness ! -9:21 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

jennreese Don't be afraid to use "touchstone" movies, tv shows, or songs to help you anchor the mood or tone of your book... #mglitchat -9:22 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @JoWhittemore I'll write 10-20 pages in antagonist's voice - his/her life story & world views. Won't end up in book but it helps. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis RT @jennreese: Don't be afraid to use "touchstone" movies, tv shows, or songs to help you anchor the mood or tone of your book... #mglitchat -9:22 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @KateMilford Oh, it's not necessarily for the book that I write those other voices - just for me to understand! #mglitchat -9:22 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @debamarshall Way too many twitter chats...when do y'all write? #mglitchat -9:22 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

SarahDarerLitt RT @KateMessner: Ill write 10-20 pages in antagonists voice - his/her life story & world views. Wont end up in book but it helps. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore RT @KateMessner: Ill write 10-20 pages in antagonists voice - his/her life story & world views. Wont end up in book but it helps. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

mmanlove @KateMessner give your villain a voice. Let the reader see it from their pov #lessonslearnedfromshakespeare #mglitchat -9:23 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

jennreese My touchstone was the tv show Avatar: The Last Airbender. Really helped to consider how they solved story issues. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

michaelascotto RT @KateMilford: Dont let the young audience keep you from writing gorgeous prose if thats what you want to write. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

dutchhillgirl RT @mmanlove: @KateMessner give your villain a voice. Let the reader see it from their pov #lessonslearnedfromshakespeare #mglitchat -9:23 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder One thing I find myself doing lately is letting an outline sit for a month. SO that I can just think about it, fill in blanks. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @jennreese #mglitchat The Last Airbender movie was a major disappointment, the series was decent. Try watching anime like X'amd -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner For each book, I do a LOT of writing that never sees light of day. (32 pages of world building descriptions for EYE OF THE STORM) #mglitchat -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @Miranda_Paul If I'm working on a draft, I've begun to do 3-4 hour-long writing sprints a day. I shoot for 3k daily. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta I don't have villains in my books. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @KateMessner That's an awesome idea. Will have to try it! Would def help make the villain more relatable. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

wendyorr @LaurelSnyder @@KateMessner I did 1 in multiple 1st person voices but more like linked short stories, each told their own chapter #mglitchat -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul Question: Do you have crit. group read chapter at a time or the whole thing at once when you're 'finished' (using word lightly)? #mglitchat -9:24 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford If it's a story I'm just messing with to see where it goes, 1-2k words is a light day's quota. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa RT@KateMilford: Don't let the young audience keep you from writing gorgeous prose if that's what you want to write. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall I like the idea of doing sprints throughout the day #mglitchat -9:25 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall RT @KateMilford: If it's a story I'm just messing with to see where it goes, 1-2k words is a light day's quota. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @kurtisscaletta I have a weakness for villains. I do write from my villains' povs. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @kurtisscaletta That's interesting, K! I don't usually either. I've been thinking about that. I don't really believe in them... #mglitchat -9:25 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta So what provides your conflict? #mglitchat -9:25 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @debamarshall I've had 7k word days doing sprints like that. Painlessly. I was shocked. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @Miranda_Paul I don't have a group. I have a few trusted friends who read a finished early draft. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg Finally understood what #mglitchat is. Time to have some fun :devil: -9:26 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @Miranda_Paul I'm generally not ready to share a novel w/ crit group until it's done & I've revised once on my own already. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

jennreese @Miranda_Paul I have a "perfect reader" reach each chapter as I go, but she only gives positive feedback. I save crits for later. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @LaurelSnyder #mglitchat Do you lock yourself in a quite room to brainstorm ideas or do you just wait for them. -9:27 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta @KDuBayGillis I'm big on sibling rivalry, kids being misunderstood -- despite the magical realism realistic kid challenges. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Johnlit360 @KateMessner is it tough keeping the plot moving... @LaurelSnyder #mglitchat -9:27 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa @jennreese Great tip about touchtone movies! I think I've been gravitating toward one as I prep for a major revision of my MG. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

wendyorr @LaurelSnyder Do you do proper outline before 1st draft? I can't till after 2-3, or story dies. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg Question: What kind of distractions would you avoid when you're writing? #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder I envy people who write all day, and at night. My kids are still home with me m most of the day. I write 2-3 hrs at most, 10-1. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

StephanieRuble Trying to follow 2 chats at once: #kidlitart and #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @miranda_paul I have an awesome crit group & 4 kid beta-readers (they are 9, 9, 11, and 11) &the 9 year olds read with their dad. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

RainTownPress @Miranda_Paul In the group I'm in, we read in 50-page chunks, but ideally after the ms has been finished or revised a bit. -Lucy #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis Should we do three more minutes of tips from our pros and open the door to questions at the 30 minute mark @JoWhittemore? #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @KDuBayGillis #mglitchat Sounds fine to me. -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

WendyMartinArt @StephanieRuble you'll hurt yourself #kidlitart #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @Johnlit360 Moving the plot is the single hardest thing for me. I came to novels as a poet. I like tinkering, wordplay... #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @LaurelSnyder That's inspiring! #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @miranda_paul But I usually don't send stuff to any of them until I have a fairly solid draft. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis Yep! We're almost at the halfway point. :-) #mglitchat -9:29 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford With apologies to my crit group, I find it's best that I don't show them much until I get through to the end. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall you can do it! RT @StephanieRuble: Trying to follow 2 chats at once: #kidlitart and #mglitchat -9:29 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @Dfg I recently installed Freedom. Single best thing I've done for my writing in a long time. I wander, open books, write. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner Answer: Everything that's not writing. RT @Dfg What kind of distractions would you avoid when you're writing? #mglitchat -9:30 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg Question: if given a chance would you write a children story for Pakistani kids? How would you research their likes or dislikes? #mglitchat -9:30 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall Now me? I having hard time with one, lol! @StephanieRuble #mglitchat -9:30 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta I'm really focused on how the character changes more than the outer story. MG is a coming of age genre. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford Sometimes they (bless them) want me to have my insanity under control before I know what's actually happening with the story. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @LaurelSnyder #mglitchat I write best when I am close to fainting, it's then my mind really open. -9:30 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall RT @LaurelSnyder recently installed Freedom. Single best thing Ive done for my writing in a long time. I wander,open books,write. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @Johnlit360 I actually make a chapter by chapter plot chart after 1st draft so I can visually see high/low, fast/slow sections. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @KateMessner #mglitchat I tried that approach, I guess being I would have to try harder then. :) -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

OrigamiYoda #mglitchat Hi everybody! Thanks for the tips! -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @OrigamiYoda #mglitchat thanks for taking part in this chat. -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis RT @kurtisscaletta: I'm really focused on how the character changes more than the outer story. MG is a coming of age genre. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

SherAHart RT @kurtisscaletta: I'm really focused on how the character changes more than the outer story. MG is a coming of age genre. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner I agree, but for me, sometimes I "write" in my head, staring at the wall, in the shower, etc. I just need NO INPUT. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall RT @kurtisscaletta: Im really focused on how the character changes more than the outer story. MG is a coming of age genre. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta I wouldn't write about a culture I didn't experience firsthand @dfg. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta Your MG course really made me think about this in my own writing. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

elissacruz (I am finally here. Are we asking questions yet?) #MGlitchat -9:32 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

TheAlbumLeaffy RT @KateMilford: With apologies to my crit group, I find it's best that I don't show them much until I get through to the end. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg Question: Since most of the books ideas are recycled, how many ideas do you have to drop before you get the right one? #mglitchat -9:32 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @Dfg Would! I would research by talking to them directly, and their teachers, and their families. What other way? #mglitchat -9:32 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

rachelgrinti @elissacruz Yay, hi Elissa! Yes, we are! #MGlitchat -9:32 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @kurtisscaletta #mglitchat that's actually a smart choice, but what if someone provided you with some insight on them. -9:32 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @elissacruz Question mode in full force. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

ixtumea @LaurelSnyder Ditto here. I homeschool so I get in around 2-3 hrs of writing a day too. If I'm lucky. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta When open to Q&A please put QUESTION at the beginning so I can see them better in my tweetchat stream. Thx. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

maggiedana Jumping in late, so hello everyone. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore We have reached the open floor portion of our evening. Ask away! #mglitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

colbysharp I love following this chat:) #mglitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

elissacruz @rachelgrinti YAY! So sorry to be so late. UGH. #toomuchtodo #notenoughtime #MGlitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat That's the best way but here is the problem, you're dealing with mostly an uneducated region with limited thinking -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa @OrigamiYoda My favorite finger puppet is here! Welcome! *waves* #mglitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @Dfg I have heard many published PB authors say they write 8-10 for every 1 that's published. MG writers want to chime in? #mglitchat -9:33 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa RT @kurtisscaletta: When open to Q&A please put QUESTION at the beginning so I can see them better in my tweetchat stream. Thx. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

jennreese @KarenninaPosa Curious what movie is inspiring your MG revision! #mglitchat -9:34 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta @Dfg I really want there to be more books about other cultures so yes, absolutely, if I had the right story idea I'd do it. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @Dfg I start projects and proposals all the time. I'll write the first 100 pages or so and see how I feel about it. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @kurtisscaletta @dfg Yes, sentiments exactly. You have to be there, talking with kids, knowing about the place/culture to write #mglitchat -9:34 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall @elissacruz hey there! glad you made it #mglitchat -9:34 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @kurtisscaletta #mglitchat Well, that's great. I am planning to highlight the children of the 3rd world countries & what inspires them. -9:34 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta @Dfg When I set a book in Africa I still felt more comfortable writing it from a POV similar to my own background. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @Miranda_Paul I only have a couple unpublished novels on my computer - many more picture books. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @Miranda_Paul I think that's my pb ratio, or close. For MGs, I'll sketch out an idea, and then drop it. But not a full novel. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @KateMilford #mglitchat Wow, 100 pages. That's a lot of work, kudos for keeping up with originality & interesting stories. -9:35 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta @Dfg God bless you for it. I would love to see more children from the developing world reflected in books. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta @Dfg I fantasize about being successful enough to start a publishing co. that specializes in international kid lit. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @kurtisscaletta #mglitchat I will try my best, I will hopefully start with some articles & then job into some short stories. -9:36 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @Dfg When you say uneducated region limited thinking that's a big statement - I know what you mean tho, I work in rural Gambia. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @Dfg That's how long it takes me to figure out whether I want to commit to it. But that's why I shoot for 3000 words most days. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat Unfortunately they're not very open to the idea of fairy tales here. It doesn't have the same impact as it should. -9:37 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @wendyorr @KDuBayGillis I left my flail at home, so thank your lucky stars! ;-) #mglitchat -9:37 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @kurtisscaletta @Dfg Saw a small press called Hartlyn Kids trying to do this. CitizenKid and Kane/Miller are notable as well #mglitchat -9:38 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @kurtisscaletta #mglitchat Africa is different place than Pakistan but thanks for bring some attention to it. -9:38 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @KateMilford #mglitchat My fingers would run away if I typed that much :D -9:38 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis QUESTION: At what stage do you start to let your agent read? Rough draft? Complete polished first draft? #mglitchat -9:38 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

SherAHart Question #MGlitchat Are word count limits heading up for fantasy/SF, specifically Upper MG max? -9:38 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMilford I admire this. At 100 pages I feel close to finished. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

kurtisscaletta @Dfg Of course Africa is many different places in itself! I lived in Liberia. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @Dfg *mouth agape* No fairytales in Pakistan? Really? I rewrite many world folktales...mostly West African...many stories here. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KDuBayGillis I send my agent pages after a chapter or two, and sort of discuss my outline. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @KDuBayGillis She usually reads my 100 page starts and weighs in. She's an amazing sounding board. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

jennreese Sometimes I give my agent a pitch, sometimes a few chapters, and sometimes just the finished first draft. It varies by project. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall RT @KateMilford: @debamarshall I've had 7k word days doing sprints like that. Painlessly. I was shocked. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder I have not figured out how to write anything in under 300 pages. BUT I'M TRYING, I SWEAR. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat They have the same old stuff, but it's so compressed and one directional that you can't dive into the other world -9:40 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul @Miranda_Paul @Dfg I realize now you are only speaking of Pakistan. When you said 3rd world, thought you meant in general. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @SherAHart I think so, but I don't like this trend. I think complex ideas and well built characters shouldn't always mean length #mglitchat -9:40 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner @KDuBayGillis Agents/editors only have fresh eyes for a project once. I generally don't share until I have a solid 3rd-4th draft. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @kdubaygillis Actually, that's not true. Usually I send her the first couple chapters even before that. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Miranda_Paul RT @kurtisscaletta: @Dfg Of course Africa is many different places in itself! I lived in Liberia. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa Question: Maybe trivia but am curious...To write 3K+ or so words a day, how fast do you type? Or maybe use a dictation software? #mglitchat -9:40 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

debamarshall @KateMilford @kurtisscaletta I am slow in keeping up, but I so agree on their being tween sections...it would be great! #mglitchat -9:41 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

coachhays64 @KateMilford Question: Do you ever write dead end 100 page starters which resurface and combine for a whole new direction? #mglitchat -9:41 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

dsantat #mglitchat hi folks. Don't mind me. Just watching and note taking

               

Miranda_Paul    @kurtisscaletta @Dfg Yes Kurtiss. I dream of starting a shame blog for everyone who mistakes Africa for a country, or 'lumps' it #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:41:20

LaurelSnyder     @KateMessner Wow, really? That's not my experience. This will be the first time my editor doesn't see early pages. #mglitchat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:41:25

Dfg         @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat Well, since I have an Islamic background, it really doesn't matter where they're located, it's the same.     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:41:32

KateMilford        @kdubaygillis On the other hand, neither my agent nor my editor read The Broken Lands until the first draft was done. #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:41:35

jennreese           @SherAHart I think wordcounts are more flexible than people think. Mysterious Benedict Society is 118K! #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:41:36

lisabrowndraws                How DARE you. RT @dsantat: #mglitchat hi folks. Don't mind me. Just watching and note taking                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:42:08

KateMilford        @KarenninaPosa If I'm doing a sprint, I shoot for 1000 words/hour. #mglitchat   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:42:25

SherAHart           @LaurelSnyder #MGlitchat I'm at 51000 but crit partners complain it moves too fast.       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:42:43

elissacruz             QUESTION: Now that you're published, how many books are sold on proposal, and how many are a polished ms? Any reasons why? #MGlitchat        Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:42:54

coachhays64      @KateMessner Question: How long does it usually take in the process until you realize you're on to something and it's a home run? #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:05

KateMilford        @coachhays64 Yes, absolutely! Plus the worlds of most of them are related, so I might meet a character in one project (continued) #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:06

KDuBayGillis       @KateMessner So interesting to hear the different approaches. thanks! @jennreese @KateMilford @LaurelSnyder Thanks! #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:21

JoWhittemore   @KateMilford THAT is impressive. #mglitchat     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:27

LaurelSnyder     My WIP is about 60K and I'm trying to cut it back. #mglitchat        Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:28

Dfg         Insight: Out of all the authors that I know, only few have penetrated the Pakistani market, Rowling is one of them #mglitchat.         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:29

KarenninaPosa  @jennreese And I loved that book (Mysterious Benedict Society)! #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:39

Miranda_Paul    @Dfg Gambia is 90% Muslim too. I politely beg to differ. Islam is not uniform everywhere in the world and my co-writer is Muslim #mglitchat            Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:46

Johnlit360            @KateMessner thanks for your post on Skype visits...that was exactly what I was looking for!! #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:43:53

Dfg         Also, #mglitchat Pakistan does have a high rate of pirated books. So, not an ideal spot.  Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:44:01

KateMilford        @coachhays64...that I find the perfect place for in a different book. Sometimes I bring them back younger or older. #mglitchat        Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:44:03

LaurelSnyder     @elissacruz I've felt very lucky in this. SInce my first book, I've sold each on proposal, or as "unnamed novel" or whatever. #mglitchat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:44:22

Johnlit360            @LaurelSnyder what is the hardest part of writing for you? #mglitchat   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:44:30

kurtisscaletta     I have sold most of my books in proposal since the first one. #mglitchat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:44:38

Dfg         @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat Yes, it differs from region to region, but the core foundations don't change Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:44:40

PBWorkshop      Question: Does the sprint process work if research-based, as in HF? or only for pure fiction? #mglitchat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:44:41

Miranda_Paul    @Dfg Do you think the pirated book rate in Pakistan has something to do with censorship? #mglitchat   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:16

KateMessner     @elissacruz My last couple novels have been sold on proposal - a short blurb & sample chapters. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:18

Dfg         @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat I pretty much spent my 25 years being a Muslim, the childhood wasn't that exciting :(                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:32

KateMilford        @PBWorkshop I'm a research hound, but I don't let it interfere with getting words on the page. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:34

PBWorkshop      @LaurelSnyder That's not luck, that recognition of talent (sorry, no chocolate to top that with!) #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:39

kurtisscaletta     Since I've had the pleasure of working with one editor for several books it's easy to check in and discuss future projects. #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:51

KateMilford        @PBWorkshop If I come up against something I need to look up, I will type BLANK or COME BACK TO THIS and move on. #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:55

LaurelSnyder     @Johnlit360 Plotting. The climax always feels like melodrama to me. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:57

Miranda_Paul    @Dfg Right. But I don't think the core foundation says Don't Read or Buy Books or Fairy Tales. Correct? #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:45:59

Dfg         @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat Nope, it has to do with Money & publishers & lack of Interest. It's cheaper to buy pirated books    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:05

SherAHart           @jennreese #MGlitchat At 85000 words I had agents decline at conference who said the idea was great, but...     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:15

michaelascotto RT @KateMilford: @PBWorkshop Im a research hound, but I dont let it interfere with getting words on the page. #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:24

jennreese           @SherAHart Oh, that's too bad! My first book is 70K, and my editor told me to keep book 2 "under 100". It was 80K at first draft. #mglitchat               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:25

JoWhittemore   @Dfg @Miranda_Paul Gotta play bad cop for a minute. :-) Let's please keep this chat focused on our special guests. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:41

KateMessner     @coachhays64 I fall in mad love with ideas but never see the "home run" until the revision process is well underway. #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:48

Dfg         @Miranda_Paul #mglitchat Basically anything that explores the topics of GOD, is a bad idea. People here are extremely volatile about it.         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:52

LaurelSnyder     @KateMilford I do this, mark places with XXX or TK, so I can search them later. Also, I keep running "notes" at end of doc. #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:56

PBWorkshop      RT @KateMilford: @PBWorkshop If I come up against something I need to look up, I will type BLANK/COME BACK TO THIS and move on. #mglitchat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:02

Dfg         @JoWhittemore #mglitchat I am really sorry :(   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:06

KarenninaPosa  Great tip! RT @KateMilford If I come up against something I need to look up, I will type BLANK or COME BACK TO THIS and move on #mglitchat  Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:06

Johnlit360            @LaurelSnyder your dialogue is great in breadbox...that can be hard for me to make it authentic. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:10

KateMilford        @jennreese @sherAhart Oh noes! I think it depends on the editor. My last contract asked for 65-75k, but the final was over 100k #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:24

maggiedana       RT @LaurelSnyder: Plotting. The climax always feels like melodrama to me. // It's a fine line to tread. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:27

jennreese           @PBWorkshop The "sprint" concept doesn't work for me at all, ever. I wish it did. #mglitchat      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:30

lisabrowndraws                QUESTION: Why mg? What is it about that age group that you are drawn to? #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:40

Miranda_Paul    @JoWhittemore @Dfg So sorry! Will do! #mglitchat        Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:47

JoWhittemore   @Dfg No worries! It's definitely a topic we can discuss another night! :-) #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:54

Johnlit360            @LaurelSnyder @KateMessner @michaelascotto where do you get ideas for your books and what do you do to develop them? #mglitchat               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:10

LaurelSnyder     @Johnlit360 Thank you. I LOVE writing dialogue and description. That's the fun part. #mglitchat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:15

KateMilford        @LaurelSnyder Exactly. I love research but I try & compartmentalize my time. Research books are for exercise bike or the bath. :) #mglitchat  Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:16

debamarshall     Nice! RT @KateMilford If I come up against something I need to look up, I will type BLANK or COME BACK TO THIS and move on #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:23

maggiedana       RT @lisabrowndraws: QUESTION: Why mg? What is it about that age group that you are drawn to? // They are so open to new stuff. #mglitchat      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:27

KateMessner     I type 1st drafts start to finish w/out looking back, keep a big list of "known issues" on the side. That's how I start revision. #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:31

JoWhittemore   @Miranda_Paul Thanks for being understanding! :-) #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:33

LaurelSnyder     @lisabrowndraws I believe there's an adventure in everything, and that MG readers/characters want to find it. #mglitchat             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:45

KateMilford        @jennreese @sherAhart But I think she'd have been way happier if it had been where she asked for it to be. :) #mglitchat               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:48:46

KarenninaPosa  @LaurelSnyder Why TK? Means what? #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:49:25

KateMilford        @lisabrowndraws I think @katemessner hit the nail on the head. So much scope for wonder. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:49:28

kurtisscaletta     I write middle grade because I loved reading so much at that age myself. Books were so important to me. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:49:39

PBWorkshop      @KateMilford I get the exercise bike, but the bath? Can't figure that one out! #mglitchat             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:49:39

KDuBayGillis       @KateMessner I need to follow this tip. I let fear of plot holes hold me back. #mglitchat               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:49:59

Miranda_Paul    QUESTION: Do you send a crit. group 1 chapter at a time for comments, or the whole thing at once? #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:49:59

maggiedana       All readers want to find themselves in the story they're reading, especially mg readers. #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:19

kurtisscaletta     @Miranda_Paul Usually 3 chapters or so. #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:36

KDuBayGillis       RT @LaurelSnyder: @lisabrowndraws I believe there's an adventure in everything, and that MG readers/characters want to find it. #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:36

KateMilford        @PBWorkshop Keeps me from feeling my bathtub soaking time could be put to better use. :) #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:41

jennreese           @lisabrowndraws MG kids want to, and believe, that they can save the world. It's a feeling I dearly wish I still had. #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:50

lisabrowndraws                QUESTION: Is there a topic that you guys feel is verboten for mgs? #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:52

LaurelSnyder     On why MG-- I actually have a YA I want to do, but it's totally a time travel adventure. So I think at heart I'm just a MG author #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:55

Dfg         Question: #mglitchat Does anyone here use a white board to draw out the characters, like in the CSI(or Castle)? That would be awesome.             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:50:56

KateMessner     I write middle grade because I believe those books are important.The books I read when I was 10-11-12 shaped the person I became. #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:51:16

Miranda_Paul    @kurtisscaletta Thanks Kurtis. Are all the members in your crit. group MG writers too? #mglitchat            Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:51:33

KateMilford        @Miranda_Paul Big chunks, or the whole thing. I don't want to get hung up trying to perfect the early chapters & not move on. #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:51:45

lisabrowndraws                .@LaurelSnyder and time travel would make it genre if YA or adult? I have a pal writing a non-genre time travel adult novel... #mglitchat        Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:51:51

ixtumea               @KateMessner And you do a fab job at it, Kate. Seriously, you are the queen of MGs. My son agrees. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:51:55

michaelascotto @Johnlit360 All over - short answer? I like to write about the things I'm most afraid of, at MG age and now #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:51:55

PBWorkshop      @KateMilford Question: when researching, do you take extensive notes or just build your own mental schema of the facts? #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:52:05

KateMessner     @lisabrowndraws Every time I think there might be one of those topics, someone writes a gorgeous MG novel about it. So no. #mglitchat               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:52:21

LaurelSnyder     @KarenninaPosa http://t.co/s2uH1U5A (on TK) #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:52:29

jessStorkwrites QUESTION: Do you like characters to drive your story, plot, or other things? I.E. what pulls you through the first draft? #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:52:31

wendyorr            @Dfg I've been experimenting with a sketch app on the iPad to draw new character. Frees me from fear of lack of drawing ability #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:52:43

kurtisscaletta     @PBWorkshop A bit of both. #mglitchat               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:52:57

KateMilford        @PBWorkshop Both. I read extensively, then I throw out and re-make certain things. I'm a nerd. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:53:12

LaurelSnyder     @PBWorkshop It's a mix. I google search as I go, then back up more carefully after I have a draft. B/c details can spur story. #mglitchat            Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:53:43

kurtisscaletta     @jessStorkwrites I think "character-centered" is a better way to put it than "character-driven." #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:53:50

Dfg         Question: With immense amount of books being published, how do you keep track of what's being done already? #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:53:53

KarenninaPosa  Question for sprint writers: How fast do you revise? I'm looking to get a handle on setting goals. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:53:55

KarenninaPosa  @LaurelSnyder Thanks for the link! #mglitchat   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:54:27

KateMessner     @jessStorkwrites I write an outline on Scrivener.Then characters sneak in and change it while I'm asleep. Story grows as I write. #mglitchat             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:54:40

PBWorkshop      Question: When research is involved, how do you decide if back matter is/isn't needed? #mglitchat        Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:54:44

Dfg         @wendyorr #mglitchat That's a great a use of an iPad. *hands award* Try whiteboard, it's really fun.      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:54:45

LaurelSnyder     @jessStorkwrites I follow the outline loosely, but for me character has to be the golden thread. I defer to character. #mglitchat     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:54:46

KateMilford        @KarenninaPosa Depends on how fast I have to revise. Left to my own devices--who knows. But I can go FAST if I need to. #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:55:15

kurtisscaletta     @PBWorkshop I rarely include info that isn't needed in the story. #mglitchat      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:55:34

PBWorkshop      @KateMessner Don't you give your characters warm milk before sleeping? #mglitchat  Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:55:47

debamarshall     @KateMessner lol on the characters sneaking in to change the outline. love it! #mglitchat            Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:55:55

KateMilford        @karenninaposa There's so much hurry-up-and-wait stuff. I've had relaxing revisions and panicked ones. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:55:59

KateMessner     This => RT @LaurelSnyder I follow the outline loosely, but for me character has to be the golden thread. I defer to character. #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:02

kurtisscaletta     People talk about the characters "driving" the plot, but I think it's more about being attentive to the character's inner life. #mglitchat               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:07

jessStorkwrites @KateMessner I like that! "Characters sneak in and change it while I'm asleep". Things do change in stories while you're away. #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:11

wendyorr            Feeling rejuvented by chat & sprint concept – house is now quiet for 2 hours so am going to jump back into new wip. Bye for now! #mglitchat            Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:31

jennreese           @PBWorkshop I love world-building and do a lot of it, but only use a tiny fraction in the actual book. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:33

KateMilford        @PBWorkshop Somebody (usually a crit group member) says something like, "cool story, bro. And I care...why?" #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:41

LaurelSnyder     @lisabrowndraws I know so little about YA. Am trying to catch up. This could be adult, maybe. I won't know until I start. #mglitchat   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:41

debamarshall     RT @KateMessner I write an outline on Scrivener.Then characters sneak in and change it while Im asleep. Story grows as I write. #mglitchat             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:56:42

jessStorkwrites @LaurelSnyder is it the same for you in the second draft? #mglitchat      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:57:03

Dfg         @KateMilford #mglitchat Don't tell me someone used that meme on you. hahaha Referring to Cool Story bro    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:57:24

KDuBayGillis       @kurtisscaletta Love this sentiment! #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:57:43

jessStorkwrites @kurtisscaletta Fair enough. I guess it all depends on your perspective. #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:57:51

kurtisscaletta     One last question in my wheelhouse anyone? #mglitchat             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:58:12

SherAHart           #MGlitchat Question Where do you find reliable crit partners? I crit other authors & few males return the favor. I have a male MC.               Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:58:14

KateMessner     @PBWorkshop There's a huge temptation to put ALL research in a book ("This is so cool!") I cut what isn't essential to story. #mglitchat      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:58:15

KateMilford        @Dfg the husband uses that on me ALL THE TIME. Often wordlessly, with that look...sigh. #mglitchat     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:02

lisabrowndraws                I put the cool extras on my website. RT @KateMessner: @PBWorkshop There's a huge temptation to put ALL research in a book. #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:04

LaurelSnyder     @jessStorkwrites I think more so. I think the characters become louder with each pass, and that's what I care most about. #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:05

KDuBayGillis       @kurtisscaletta How is your latest WIP coming? #mglitchat          Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:05

coachhays64      @LaurelSnyder Question: Do you feel MG is more stable or less prone to current trends than YA? #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:15

LaurelSnyder     @KateMilford “Your language becomes clear and strong not when you can no longer add, but when you can no longer take away.” Babel #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:16

samclarkwrites  “@KateMessner: I type 1st drafts start to finish w/out looking back, keep a big list of "known issues" on the side. #mglitchat” Me too              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:20

maggiedana       RT @KateMilford: Bottom line is, if its not either moving story forward or setting up something critical, it prob needs to go. #mglitchat      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:32

KateMessner     @SherAHart SCBWI Conferences & other writerly events are good for hooking up with critique partners. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:32

kurtisscaletta     @SherAHart I've met them through blueboards, scbwi, and the literary center where I work. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:49

LaurelSnyder     @KateMessner Yes!!! I really wanted to work Mencken & Billie Holiday into my new book. Neither stuck. :( #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:59:59

KateMilford        I'm not saying I adhere to that gracefully, but I grudgingly admit it's probably a good rule. #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:00:15

kurtisscaletta     @KDuBayGillis About 85% done! I think I could have a draft by Monday. I often write the last 40-odd pages in a sprint. #mglitchat     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:00:39

Dfg         @kurtisscaletta #mglitchat That's the ideal book size? (referring to number of pages)     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:00:47

maggiedana       RT @coachhays64: Do you feel MG is more stable or less prone to current trends than YA? // I think it's far more stable. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:00:48

LaurelSnyder     @coachhays64 I think so, yes. Or maybe the trends are less obvious. Not "vampires" but "magical adventures" or "funny." #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:00:49

KDuBayGillis       @kurtisscaletta @SherAHart Verla Kay's Blueboards...highly recommend for great crit partners! I agree! #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:00:52

KDuBayGillis       @kurtisscaletta You rock! Best of luck to the finish line! #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:01:25

KateMilford        @OrigamiYoda But then the copyeditor says, "is the game of Go Fish era-appropriate?" Which just happened to me this week. #mglitchat  Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:01:27

jessStorkwrites @LaurelSnyder That's such an interesting way to look at it. #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:01:28

PBWorkshop      RT @KateMessner: Great idea for research that doesnt end up in book! RT @lisabrowndraws I put the cool extras on my website. #mglitchat             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:01:43

lisabrowndraws                And talk about them in my school visits. ie I have kids try on a corset. RT @lisabrowndraws I put the cool extras on my website. #mglitchat   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:01:52

KateMessner     @LaurelSnyder My WIP mystery is set in Costa Rica.I'm already lamenting the cool animals I can't describe in the detail I'd like. #mglitchat  Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:01:55

ByAnnaBanks    RT @SherAHart: #MGlitchat Question Where do you find reliable crit partners? I crit other authors & few males return the favor. I have a male MC.            Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:01:59

michaelascotto Seconded! RT @KDuBayGillis: @kurtisscaletta You rock! Best of luck to the finish line! #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:02:03

maggiedana       @KateMilford LOL about "go-fish" ... then there's always Crazy 8s. #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:02:31

PBWorkshop      Ditto. RT @KDuBayGillis: @kurtisscaletta You rock! Best of luck to the finish line! #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:02:35

Dfg         Question: Why doesn't anyone feature Camels in the books? #mglitchat              Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:02:46

mgwritermhaynes           @KateMessner Love this - perfectly put! And exactly why I write it, too:) #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:02:54

OrigamiYoda      #mglitchat @KateMilford Go Fish? Was it?           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:03:10

maggiedana       @KateMessner Those screaming monkeys that keep you awake all night? #mglitchat     Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:03:10

Dfg         I mean you can make a flying camel and make a really funny story surrounding it. #mglitchat       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:03:24

KateMilford        @maggiedana The stuff I get asked to fact-check is hilarious. #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:03:37

kurtisscaletta     Thanks, everyone! Remember that thing I said about the goose. It really is the best advice I have. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:03:54

JoWhittemore   Ladies and gents, our chat is officially over. Feel free for after-hours mingling, and thank you to our special guests!! #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:03:57

KateMessner     @maggiedana Oh no... they stay. They have important plot jobs. :-) #mglitchat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:04

KateMilford        @OrigamiYoda Well, there is an Italian game of the same name from the 16th century, so I'm saying yes. #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:04

LaurelSnyder     @KateMilford I've been researching board games too! Prototype Scrabble was called Lexiko. #cool #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:06

LaurelSnyder     @KateMilford I once lost a really amazing blurb b/c of a missed fact-check. :( #mglitchat                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:26

michaelascotto Argh, must go...what an awesome chat tonight! Thanks to all of the guest stars for sharing. I'll def save this transcript #mglitchat      Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:26

Dfg         Yay, I can finally go to sleep now. #mglitchat it was fun having this little chat.       Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:32

KateMilford        @JoWhittemore Thank you for having us! This was super-fun. #mglitchat             Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:38

jennreese           @JoWhittemore Thanks for inviting me! #mglitchat         Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:41

kurtisscaletta     Here it is: https://t.co/Hdx6q0OI #mglitchat        Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:45

jessStorkwrites @OrigamiYoda But research is half the fun! Or is it just me who gets excited about videos of insectivorous plants? #mglitchat           Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:04:51

SherAHart           @KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta #MGlitchat Thanks! I've checked SCBWI but never heard of blueboards.                Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:05:03

KDuBayGillis       @kurtisscaletta Did you get it from a fortune cookie? But I think it makes sense. Slow and steady wins the race, right? #mglitchat   Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:05:03

LaurelSnyder     Thanks, everyone! #mglitchat    Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:05:05

PBWorkshop Special thanks to guest and to hosts for arranging this meet-up. Much to learn from the wise ones! Now, to apply the advice... #mglitchat -10:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

elissacruz Thanks so much to all the authors who shared their tips tonight. We hostesses are so appreciative! #MGlitchat -10:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @KateMilford @jennreese Thanks for handling the onslaught of questions so well! :-) #mglitchat -10:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

maggiedana @LaurelSnyder Have you ever played the game called 'SET'? It's so amazing, I may have to use it as a detail in my next mg. #mglitchat -10:05 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMilford I didn't fully understand what a "heifer" was and the blurber had lived on a dairy farm. #mglitchat -10:06 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @LaurelSnyder @KateMilford New NF book by MG authors: Random Facts We've Learned Writing MG. #mglitchat -10:06 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

JoWhittemore @OrigamiYoda Are you saying you didn't sample fake mustaches??? #mglitchat -10:06 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

elissacruz @KDuBayGillis We should totally get that book put together, K. ;) #MGlitchat -10:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis Great start to Tips from the Pros month with #mglitchat. Thanks guest MG authors!!! Next week...MG agents!! #mglitchat -10:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMessner Thanks, everyone! #mglitchat -10:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder @KateMessner Oh, I bet! #mglitchat -10:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford @LaurelSnyder Ah, so. Interesting. #mglitchat -10:07 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa Thanks to our guest authors for being so generous with their time and tips! That felt like an hour-long workshop! #mglitchat -10:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

Dfg #mglitchat followed pretty much everyone in the chat -10:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @KateMessner Thank you! Great insights! #mglitchat -10:08 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KarenninaPosa See you all next week for our next Tips from the Pros chat... with MG agents!! #mglitchat -10:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LaurelSnyder This was so much fun. But it always is. Thanks to our hosts, for keeping this going. #mglitchat -10:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

elissacruz I'm off to get some work done now. It's been that kind of day. #toomuchtodo #notenoughtime #goodnightall #seeyounextweek #MGlitchat -10:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

RichardNewsome #mglitchat Late into this! I draft in pencil in a notebook to deliberately slow the thought process and get as much down on paper first up. -10:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis Thanks, @kurtisscaletta! Appreciate your time and wisdom tonight. (Folks, take his online MG course. Good stuff!!!) #mglitchat -10:09 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KateMilford Heading back to the copyedits. This was fun, everyone!! Thank you! #mglitchat -10:10 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis @KateMilford Thank you! Safe travels tomorrow. Thanks for taking time out for us tonight!! #mglitchat -10:11 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis Thanks @jennreese for your time tonight! Hopefully you'll join us for future chats!! @JoWhittemore #mglitchat -10:11 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

KDuBayGillis And last thanks goes to @JoWhittemore for doing a fab job hosting and keeping our chat on track with smiles and sweetness. #mglitchat -10:12 PM Feb 2nd, 2012

LeslieEDaniels @RA_Rob_Costello Hey Rob, look at this discussion #mglitchat, interesting -10:12 PM Feb 2nd, 2012