Stephen King tells it like it is

[Blindogg]

I just read this article (it took me slightly more than ten minutes) and it is fantastic - and for those of you who are offended by Tony's constant barrage of comments about writing skills - you probably shouldn't read it. Actually - you should...because it's written by one of the most credible sources you'll find...

http://mikeshea.net/Everything_You_Need_to_Kn.html

[Tony Walker]

Yes, I've read King's book on writing, and it was the only one I've seen that offers sensible advice.

[Steve Cross]

This is so true. I had written a picture book and thought I might like to submit it somewhere. It was over 1,500 words. The market I wanted was looking for no more than 750. Ruthlessly, I sliced and diced. Got it down to 745. I submitted it. I'm still waiting to hear about it. It's amazing how we fall in love with our own words, no matter how bloated they are.

[Randi Kreger]

Personally, what has made me a successful writer, understanding that I have the general talent and education for it, was two things:

1. Having a string of jobs that made me write *constantly*. I worked in marketing and public relations and wrote press releases and newsltter articles and annual reports etc. etc. etc. I was forced by job descrptions to churn it out constantly.

2. I am a constant reader. I never stop. I read everything.