March | 2008 | Cathy C. Hall Writes

It’s no secret that I’m always looking for a deal. And if I can find a deal that also includes my favorite writing genre, then I think that’s worth a Woohoo!

Sorry to spring this contest on you so late in the month, but you only need to write fifty charming children’s lit words. Check out this month’s writer’s contest over at SCBWI here. Even if you miss the March 31st deadline, it’s no big deal. Soon enough, another fun contest will come along. All you have to do is remember to check the site regularly.

Then maybe, one of these fine days, you’ll win that free membership in the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Gee, you can save a Fortune. Or at least seventy bucks.

That’s worth a Woohoo, right?

I am a sucker for anything free. And if the freebie happens to be writing-related, well then, sign me up! So writing-related websites, and their newsletters, and occasional magazines suck me in every single day. It’s like the call of the Sirens. I can’t resist.

So what? you ask. Aren’t you learning something writer-ly? Oftentimes, yes. But I’m also spending my time reading about writing rather than actually writing. That is what we call a Detour on the Road to Publication.

So, little grasshopper, when writing time is precious, don’t spend it all reading about how to become a great writer. Take time every day to write. And if you have time left over, then check out those newsletters, websites and magazines. And don’t forget blogs. (Now there’s something I totally cannot resist. Especially if it’s mine!)