The Publishing and Novel Writing Seminar
was a great success.

Publishing
&
Novel Writing
Seminar

Twenty-eight participants enjoyed talks from Keith Rideout of Adviser Graphics and Rob Gilgan, winner in the annual NaNoWriMo contest. Keith spoke about publishing during the morning session, a great sandwich and soup spread was provided by Richelle's Kitchen & Catering over the lunch hour, and Rob spoke about writing in the afternoon.

Sid Opening Seminar

Setting up for the Seminar, there's a time out for a group photo.

Here's Bruce

Introducing Keith Rideout

Several of Keith's main points:
- you don't have to be from California, the cutting edge of change. Local authors (Kerry Wood, Sigmund Brouwer, and more) have done very well
- ask yourself why you are writing. If it's to sell your work, learn about your market and find out how to reach it. One suggestion - Write one sentence to explain why someone should buy your book
- be aware of: libel, copyright and also be aware of trends in writing, opportunities to conspire for exposure, training opportunities, available software.
- a lover of quotes, one Keith offered was from Winston Churchill, "If you're going through hell, keep going."

Lunch in the Lunchroom
Kinda takes you back.


Mr. Rob Gilgan on Writing

Several of Rob's main points:
- NaNoWriMo stands for National Novel Writing Month, held every November, where authors are challenged to write a 50 000 word novel in one month (see www.nanowrimo.org)
- Rob has been a "winner" (someone who completes the NaNoWriMo challenge) and has posted his two novels on his website - http://www.gilgan.com/
- he suggests you should write about what you know
- a tremendous boost for a writer is to have a friend with whom to share your writing BUT the friend needs to be skillful, patient and honest.

Eastview Middle School kindly donated the use of their library and gathering area for the event.