Read on Twitter
#WriteTip / #QueryTip / #RevisionTip
From an agent's perspective, a high word count can be a red flag that the project is early and in need of revision.
For that reason, if your word count is high, I strongly recommend revising before submitting.
But all is not lost...!
1/
From an agent's perspective, a high word count can be a red flag that the project is early and in need of revision.
For that reason, if your word count is high, I strongly recommend revising before submitting.
But all is not lost...!
1/
I promise, via focused revision, it won't be difficult to streamline the word count--and your story will benefit as a result. I have helped many clients slice away words to reveal their story. It's a little like gardening...
2/
2/
In early drafts, you are writing for story, and it's okay to write a lot in the process. You are probably repeating yourself as you search for the best way to convey feelings and actions, describe the world, etc.
(This is true for picture books as well as novels)
3/
(This is true for picture books as well as novels)
3/
Later, in revision, you can take a look at the draft to discern what you want to keep and to let go. Of course, whatever you let go can be saved in a separate folder, in case you decide you want to work it back into the narrative again.
4/
4/
The task might feel daunting at first, but as you learn more about your process (and writing tics--we all have them), you can develop targeted revision passes to quickly discern what to trim.
5/
5/
The same process of discernment can work for plot threads and backstory. If your readers find the story too complicated or overly complex, try removing a storyline (or more) to save for later. You might discover you have material for multiple books.
Best of luck! #amrevising
Best of luck! #amrevising
