Sunday, July 16, 2006
Hello everyone! If it’s the morning of July 17, many of you have just read my DearReader.com guest column. I’d like to extend a special thanks to Suzanne Beecher and the rest of the DearReader crew for giving me that opportunity.
Because I had so many things I wanted to talk about in that column, and so little space, I thought I’d open the discussion here on my journal and take questions on any subject, from anyone who is curious about me, my novel Bloodstone and how it came about, my writing process, the writing/publishing business these days, the price of tea in China…Pretty much anything you’d like to ask, I’m here to answer (well, except maybe that last one).
I’m sweetening the pot a bit too; anyone who asks a question here will be entered into a drawing to win some neat prizes, including a t-shirt, a Bloodstone book bag–and a signed copy of my brand new novel, The Reach. But this one has a twist: The Reach is so new, it hasn’t even been read by an editor yet.
That’s right: one winner will get a rare, personalized copy of the draft of a manuscript that at this point only a handful of people have ever seen.
So fire away! Ask questions using the comments field below. If you don’t see the comments field, click on the title of the post (above) or click here. I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
July 17th, 2006 at 2:34 am
My question for you is when did you decide to become a writer? Was it a childhood dream or did you decide later in life? Thank You.
Yours,
Patsy Goodman
July 17th, 2006 at 2:46 am
I have always been an avid reader and was extremely excited to find out about DearReader.com. I am just branching out into the writing field. My love is mystery but I do not really have anything concrete. Do you have any words of wisdom regarding how to start the process? Right now I am tapping into writers group (suggestion of Steve Berry) and am going to take a couple of writing workshops. I am one of those that tend to get “their ducks in a row” before actually taking the plunge. Thanks for your wonderful column. I look forward to checking out your website and books. Be blessed.
Dar
July 17th, 2006 at 3:21 am
Hi Nate! I enjoyed your “Dear Reader” column. I love to curl up with a great book. It is a passion being passed onto my children. I think one of my children’s memories will be all of our visits to libraries and bookstores!
My question(s) for you: What is the last book that you have read? Why did you choose it? What did you like about it and why?
Thanks!
Best,
Marie
July 17th, 2006 at 4:38 am
Nate, thank you for your dearreader.com e-mail today. I read Bloodstone, which was a total departure for me because of the book clubs. Anyway, I really wanted to thank you for what you wrote in this e-mail. I have recently instituted a new rule regarding online and tv time because I really missed reading and youre e-mail made me so happy that I had done this. I felt like I never had enough time, but really I was squandering my time on unimportant things that were not bringing me the same pleasure as reading always has. I am really so delighted as I remember the joy of reading for pleasure, not just for work. As Harper Lee wrote to Oprah (O Magazine, July 2006), I love the softness of the pages, as opposed to the coldness of electronics. Thank you for reminding me what I have been missing.
July 17th, 2006 at 5:06 am
Hi,
What do you find the most difficult thing about writing a novel, and what do you do to overcome it?
Thanks,
Cheryle
July 17th, 2006 at 5:15 am
What made you decide to write in the genre you have chosen, and what do you call it?
And, two, how did you find a publisher and/or agent?
July 17th, 2006 at 6:28 am
Hopefully, “Mail” meant “e-mail” and not my post office mail address.
: )
I’m in the US Air Force stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany (I’ve been here three years now and I have one more year left). So, being overseas, a lot of good books are not available to us. And I haven’t come across one of your either — but the niext time I go to the book store or the library, I’ll search for any of your books. (I usually scan around in the book store — my favorites are horror and mystery books and it usually doesn’t take long since there aren’t too many books like that…). So, if I couldn’t find it, is there a way I could buy on-line? (Amazon.com???). Or do you sell your books at your web site? I was hoping you do, so when I buy them from your site, you’d autograph them for me? Lol… Also, is there any way I could get an autographed picture??? Thank you very much!!!
Yoshiro Maya
July 17th, 2006 at 6:52 am
When you begin your book do you know from the beginning which way your characters are going to go and how they are going to get there?
July 17th, 2006 at 6:52 am
I was lucky enough to win a copy of Bloodstone thanks to Dear Reader, and I am very happy to say I enjoyed the book a great deal.
Did real people inspire the characters Billy and Angel?
July 17th, 2006 at 7:06 am
When you sat down to write the The Reach, did you start with an outline first? If so, how detailed was your outline?
Thank you,
Rachiel Soliz
July 17th, 2006 at 7:48 am
I see you’ve read Tim Lebbon’s Dusk. It’s an amazing story. Have you been over to the Dusk website to read The Bajuman? If not why not? Check it out here.
www.noreela.com/
Could you please convince me to read Kindred Spirit while you’re at it?
Cheers!!
Terry
July 17th, 2006 at 8:27 am
Hi Nate!!
After reading your column this morning, I had to respond….I agree with your thinking on 24, though I must admit, coming into the new season late, it was hard to get into. I watch the past season’s re-runs.
And another point you brought up I can definitely agree with is how much thing have changed from when I was a kid. I used to love curling up with a book and spending an afternoon that way. It didn’t matter what the book was about..though I was later introduced to a favorite author of my aunt’s and began reading all those. It wasn’t until Suzanne’s bookclubs that I realized how sheltered I’d been as a reader. I know have children of my own and find it harder and harder to be able to sit and read the day away. Though I’ve been one of those “bad parents” who refuses to allow my sons to become TV/Video Game sponges and won’t buy a game system of any kind, I find it hard to get my oldest interested in reading. They do a lot of it in school, but due to some early hearing problems, he got behind developmentally and has struggled to catch up. The books were forced on him so much, it was like a punishment trying to get him to read even the assigned readings he brought home, much less anything on top of that. We’ve purchased him so many different books that we felt he’d love, but they sit unread and lose out to a game of ball with the neighborhood kids. How can I convince him that reading isn’t torture and get him interested in the love of reading that I felt as a kid??
Thanks very much for any suggestions you have!
–nichole
July 17th, 2006 at 10:53 am
After you unplugged the television, shut down your laptop and turned off the ringer on the phone …. What was your ‘favorite’ book that you chose to take to your easy chair? I can’t wait to find out!
Thanks,
Terry L.
July 17th, 2006 at 11:15 am
Dear Nate Kenyon,
I just read your bio and understand totally about writing EVERY DAY. I spent a year spinning my wheels on a book idea, then finally settled down and have written over 35,000 since April 12′06. What helped? Finding lots of people willing to receive my email accountability report. Each weekday after writing 500 words, I sent out the report and often they respond with encouraging comments. If any of your readers are interested in how the idea works (they’re welcome to use the idea for their own book writing!), they can see my reports and readers’ comments here: www.onyourwaytothetop.com/faq-2.htm. For those who do use the idea, invite me to be on your accountability mailing list.
July 17th, 2006 at 11:49 am
How do you choose the names for your characters? In all my years of reading fiction, I’ve always wondered how authors do it.
July 17th, 2006 at 11:55 am
I’m reading my 33rd book for this year.
I”ve read fiction,non fiction,religious,advice and always watch for a “new” author.
Hello Nate, I’m glad to learn about your books and will be reading one soon.
My question is this, do you think 33 books read since January 1 is enough to qualify me as an avid reader?
I tend to let chores go when I’m “into” a good book. Jay Davis
July 17th, 2006 at 12:03 pm
Hi Nate,
I just read your DearReader letter. Like you I had started to slow down on the number of books I read. After signing up to DearReader my list of books to read has grown and I am now finding time to read. Or I should say making time to read. I have not read your book, but it is now added to my list.
From time to time I think about what it would take to write a book. I have always been a reader. Most of the time, (with the exception of thinking I was to busy to read) I would have a book at work, one at home and one in my car, you never know when you find yourself in a Starbucks alone, a book makes good company. When my thoughts go to writing instead of reading, I never seem to be able to settle on a subject. So many things go through my mind. So, my question is: How do you make the choice of subject for a book?
Thank you for your time,
Teri Haire
July 17th, 2006 at 12:15 pm
Thanks to all for their comments and questions so far. Some great ones here. I will be posting answers shortly. For those who haven’t posted yet, it’s not too late!
Best,
Nate
July 17th, 2006 at 12:16 pm
My husband and I are avid readers and that’s what brought us together. Commulatively, we read about 3-4 books a month on just about any subject. He likes suspense, drama, sci fi, and I’ve always leaned toward business books and mystery.
I think the DearReader column is a great way to get people back into reading books and not just their e-mail. I look forward to Suzanne’s AuthorBuzz section every week just to check out what’s new and to get some ideas on what to read next.
My question to you is: At what point in your life did you become passionate about books? And at what point did your passion turn into writing?
July 17th, 2006 at 12:27 pm
I am curious about the dollars and cents aspect of being a writer. What do you claim for tax purposes? Can you write off books, travel, fees, etc. used for research purposes (or at least a portion of that)? How much would you say it costs you to write a book in terms of supplies, research, travel, etc.? Is there a book or four that you read, web sites you consulted, or classes you took to help you get those details settled, or was it trial and error, mentors, and tax consultants?
July 17th, 2006 at 12:36 pm
This is so cool - to be able to write to an actual writer!!! Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work!
July 17th, 2006 at 12:42 pm
Nate-
I am not exactly sure how to pose my “question”. I have been kicking around the same book idea since I was in the 8th grade, which is a long time even though I am only 24. Of course, the characters have developed and the plot has progressed as I have matured, but the basic concept is still there. I love to read and to write and I feel obligated to put this “never-ending story” to paper but I have one problem (this is where you come in). I can get the plot and the characters out, the skin and bones if you will, but my problem is the in-between stuff. The extra stuff that makes a book flow, that keeps you reading. So, I guess my question is, how do you get the filler that makes a short story into a novel?
July 17th, 2006 at 12:43 pm
Does your environment influence your writing process?
July 17th, 2006 at 12:48 pm
How much reading do you to to inspire your writing.
July 17th, 2006 at 12:50 pm
I admire your creativity and writing skills. To be able to concentrate and put your thoughts in a coherent manner takes a great deal of imagination and perseverance. Did you always have this ability or was it acquired over time.
July 17th, 2006 at 12:52 pm
Writing is a wonderful profession but do you have to travel and meet with agents etc. or can you work alone.
July 17th, 2006 at 1:02 pm
I so relate to your letter regarding people need to read more & not lose that great feeling you get when you’re in the middle of a good book, have to put it down & then are so excited to pick it back up again.
By the way, what book did you read when you shut off the phone ringer & turned off your laptop?
July 17th, 2006 at 1:11 pm
Hi, I just wanted to say that I was so intrigued by the type of books you wrote, that I have them on order at my local bookstore and library now. Every now and then I need a departure from the romance novels I love to read. Thanks for giving me something new to read! My question for you sir, is how would you suggest a budding writer to delegate time to write? I ask because as a mother of three, I’m also a part-time student at the local university and the hubby is currently pursuing his Ph.D and it’s so hard to just jump into my writing when I’ve got our boys all over me. Anyway, thanks for taking time to read my comment. I can’t wait to start on Bloodstone when I get it. Take care.
Anna Davis
July 17th, 2006 at 1:12 pm
Good Morning Mr. Kenyon;
I am an avid horror reader and I have added yourself to my list of favorite authors alongside Barker and Shirley.
I, myself have been writing horror for a few years now and though the thought of getting published is a distant one, I would like to have my work critiqued one day.
My question to you is two-fold;
How long had you been writing before you were published?
At what point in your writing career did you believe that your writing could stand out against other writers of the same genre?
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely
Stephen Lambert
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
July 17th, 2006 at 1:15 pm
Thanks so much for your Dear reader. As a mother of 2 I require the kids to read everday. I grew up reading and loved to escape with a great book. But I have not been reading any over the last 8 months due to a car wreck and the pain in my neck if I hold it still too long. But I am going to get back in the habit this week. There is nothing greater than a quiet house with everyone curled up with a book. And we always have great discussions after because both kids want to tell me about their book.
Thank you,
Tammy
July 17th, 2006 at 1:26 pm
I just read your Dear Reader column. I have one simple question for you. How do you keep your ideas fresh and different from what is already out there. Many times I sit down to think about things to write and all I come up with is ideas I’ve already seen on television or read in books.
July 17th, 2006 at 1:38 pm
I really enjoyed you “Dear Reader” email this morning. It made me smile because we just had rain this weekend after going without for a month at least. Sitting in my living room, I was thinking this is what I wish for on those rainy days that I have to leave for work. Finely I can actually sit with a good book and read while listen to the rain falling outside my window.
I really don’t have a question for you, but I would like to tell you how much I envy you for your talent….Thank you for writing for us. Judy
July 17th, 2006 at 1:55 pm
Just thought I’d pass along a different viewpoint (regarding curling up with a good book): I am an audio book reader — exclusively (although I do read “Dear Reader” samples each week day on my computer the old-fashioned way). Don’t know if it’s because I’m now old, or what, but I have so much trouble staying awake if I’m on my bed reading (which is where I always used to read) but now with my old & faithful Walkman (I still prefer cassettes over CD’s as the player for cd’s is EVER so much heavier than my Walkman) I can “read” a book anywhere — I have my earbuds in my ears in my photo for my State of Florida identification card (I’m a non-driver); I listen while doing laundry, cooking/baking/all manner of kitchen duties; and, best of all, I have my teeny ear buds in when I go to bed — so I just get to have some fabulous reader read to me before sleep — and if I have to get up during the night, no problem getting back to sleep, I simply re-wind the tape and the ever-patient reader begins again…
So, dear author, when you make an audio book deal, make sure you get one of the excellent readers out there to “do” your book! Some of us will be eagerly waiting…
Thanks for listening & writing,
Jean Colson
July 17th, 2006 at 2:07 pm
Good Morning
I just read your DearReader e-mail. I’m sorry to say I’m not familiar with your work but I have a trip to the library planned for today so I’ll certainly see whats available. I’m retired so I have much more time for books and I agree there is nothing better than a “GOOD” book.
Merrilee
July 17th, 2006 at 2:12 pm
Hello, Nate!
Thank you for your enthusiastic inspiration to write. I recently retired from stacks of paper grading. Now it’s my turn to write lengthier selections than time allowed during my teaching career.
My questions:
Does your writing often go in a direction not anticipated in pre-planning?
Do you include many personal experiences in building plot or developing character?
July 17th, 2006 at 2:43 pm
I got this info for the price of tea in China from google (sorry, I just couldn’t resist:) Tea bags (pack 25) CNY14.80/US$1.85/GBP£1.00/EUR€1.45
On to my question. Is there a time of day you get the most writing done, such as early morning or late evening? In other words, do you have a time of day at which you tend to get the most inspiration for your writing? I have five children and am thrilled they seem to have inherited my love of reading. There is just nothing like enjoying a good book. I have the opposite problem you do. I find I have to sometimes leave my books at work in order to get things done at home, because they are just too much of a temptation!
Katherine
Indiana
July 17th, 2006 at 2:54 pm
I just retired after working for 20 years at the University of California. I am 53 and want to remain intellectually active. I have always wanted to write a book. But I am afraid that I have to admit that my motivation for writing is to make money. I am an immigrant from Hong Kong and I have lots and lots of personal stories to tell as an immigrant growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area. Question: Is it honorable to write a book based on real life experiences and yet fictionalize it by changing some aspects of the story? For example, I once worked for a United States Senator in Washington D.C. Can I write about that experience, telling the story “factually”, but changing the real name of the Senator to Senator John Smith? Also, I have lots of personal growing up stories that I beleive will find a wide audience. Yet, I do not want my readers to know that those stories are about me. So I plan to write in a third person voice and ascribe those stories to a fictional character. Is this an honorable way to write? In other words, I won’t have to create a story. All I will do is just write my life story. Yet I want to fictionalize it because I want to stay anonymous.
July 17th, 2006 at 3:03 pm
I have so many questions. I notice that some authors are great at dialog and some are fabulous when it comes to descriptions of places or emotions. What type of writing comes easiest for you? What comes most difficult? Do your characters always do what you think they’ll do when you start a book or do the characters you create sometimes have a mind of their own and cause the story to change? How long did it take from the time you decided you wanted to be published until your first manuscript was accepted?
I’m not a writer and have no plans to become one. I do love to read, however.
Thank you for writing and thans for letting me ask questions.
July 17th, 2006 at 3:05 pm
Nate ..
I enjoyed your DearReader guest column today. I, too, am an avid reader … I confess that I even read at the stoplights, and sometimes find myself hoping I’ll get stuck waiting for a train to go by so I can finish the chapter.
An aside to Tammy who had the car accident … I find that using one of those travel pillows (you know a firm half-donut) when I’m in my easy chair helps to support my neck and lets me read a little longer.
My question … think of Ray Bradbury’s “Farhenheit 451″ … if you had to memorize one book (not your own), which would it be?
Tessa
July 17th, 2006 at 3:09 pm
Does the process of writing get easier the more you write? Is it a matter of disciplining yourself to write something everyday or do you find yourself able to easily shift into the “creative zone” to write?
July 17th, 2006 at 3:22 pm
My ultimate dream is to become an author of children’s books. I entered a contest and was told that i have the potential, but the cost for the course is very expensive. do you have any other suggestions? Marge Reinard
July 17th, 2006 at 3:35 pm
Good morning Nate,
I really enjoy your patience to take these questions. This is really something to be able to ask an author questions.
So Nate, how did you find publishers to send your script to, and how many did it take before it was accepted and published?
Thanks for all your answers. m
July 17th, 2006 at 3:39 pm
Was delighted to see your DearReader column. I agree sometimes that reading is becoming a lost art, but it amazes me to see the number of other communters who read on the train. Most of the time I have a book with me and many of the friends I have made in my daily trek also read. When I have some work to do, I put on my headset and do a book on tape. So I think books will remain a mainstay for many.
I do have a question — do you journal to keep track of thoughts or ideas you want to save for a book?
July 17th, 2006 at 4:12 pm
I had asked in an email the following question but got a msg. that “my comment did not match the site” or something like that.
My question was:
Do you get your ideas for novels from your own life, the experiences of others, or just from your own imagination?
July 17th, 2006 at 4:18 pm
Hi Nate, My question is: Do you do a lot of research before you write your novels or do you rely on your current knowledge and experience? And how accurate do you feel a work of fiction should be?
Thank you.
July 17th, 2006 at 4:42 pm
My question has essentially been asked already, but here it is again. I actually have several book ideas that are well developed and I’m well in to writing two of them. But my question is how do you really get a book to flow. I know my stories and my characters better than I know myself, but I’m not sure if my readers will feel the same way and I’m not sure if they will even be interested enough to keep reading. How do you get a story to flow and develop while still keeping readers interested?
July 17th, 2006 at 5:32 pm
When did you want to become a writer?
July 17th, 2006 at 5:34 pm
Good Morning,
I enjoyed your column and would love to win an original manuscript. I agree with you that technology is pulling us away from books. I try to read especially in the summer on the beach and on the breaks from work. I’m a teacher of deaf children. Many really struggle with reading and end up not liking it. Lately, I’ve used graphic novels and they love to get into the story. Somehow seeing these kids struggle to read makes me appreciate all the nuances of language that we fortify through reading.
Have a good day,
Anne
July 17th, 2006 at 6:39 pm
Hi,
I first wrote a novel when I was fifteen and decided recently that I would like to try to publish the book. This is because many people have encouraged me to do so, espeically since it has been five years and I am going to college to become a writer. However, I have no idea what to expect or what to do in regards to trying to publish a novel.
Other writers have suggested looking through the Writer’s Market, but this still does not help. I did recently try and see if an agency would be interested, but they eventually said in order to continue with them, I would have to find and pay for an editor myself.
Since I am in college and unable to work because of disabilities, I had to stop.
Can you tell me what to expect and maybe how you were finally able to be publish? I would love to share my novel with people because I am hoping it is something they will be interested in.
Thank you,
Amanda
July 17th, 2006 at 6:46 pm
I don’t have a question just a comment. I really enjoyed your introduction this morning at dearreader.com. You mentioned that your book was or is going to be featured. I don’t read at the horror club so I missed it but did read the excerpts from your website. I’m not a writer, I don’t even aspire to be but I LOVE to read. Stephen King is also one of my favorites and one of the first authors I began reading for pleasure. I just wanted to let you know that you have a new fan. I can’t wait to get my hands on Bloodstone to finish it.
July 17th, 2006 at 7:53 pm
my question is do you personally know some one who is schezo? not sure how to spell it. my cousin who is my age was diagnosed 20 years ago. the hearing voices, i guess is common knowledge
July 17th, 2006 at 7:56 pm
i forgot to ask—when will this book– Bloodstone–be coming out in audio?
July 17th, 2006 at 8:01 pm
Hi!
I am an avid reader!!! I listen to books as well as read them. I have a book with me everywhere I go. My question is: Do the books you read influence the story you are writing? How do you stay focused?
Happy reading!!!
Giane
July 17th, 2006 at 8:52 pm
Do you start with a plot in mind, or do you allow the story to unfold as you write it? Do you think one way is preferable to the other and why?
July 17th, 2006 at 8:56 pm
Do your ideas for novels come from your own experiences, those of other people, or just from your imagination?
July 17th, 2006 at 10:18 pm
Hello Nate
Thank you for your outstanding column today & for offering to answer questions. After reading through the questions, I have one more for you. Has your successes changed your life in the ways you thought it would? Does your success allow more choices and options to pursue your passions in life? I love your writing & express my thanks for your talents. Reading your books almost takes me out of my body for a brief vacation while being lost in the words.
July 17th, 2006 at 10:31 pm
Dear Nate,
I enjoyed reading what you wrote today.
I have a 12 yr. old son who does not enjoy reading like I do.Any suggestions.This is not something new,he has never really cared to read anything other than assigned work from school.Thank you and keep up the good work.
July 17th, 2006 at 11:28 pm
Wow, I don’t even know where to begin after reading all of the above questions and comments! I first read your column this morning early but didn’t have time to post anything until now. I have to admit that I do remember receiving Bloodstone as the book of the week from Suzanne’s e-mails but didn’t take the time to read that one. I will definitely read it now!
I love to read and a few years ago took an on-line creative writing course. However, I have trouble getting motivated and finding the time in the day to sit down and continue writing. It is very difficult for me to keep from putting it off and letting other things take priority. I also feel that I’m not “qualified” as I don’t have a writing background. I get discouraged when I hear how difficult it is to get something published and then wonder if it is worth all of the effort, or whether I should just be content to love to read. I really struggle when I do write. I guess my question would be how do you keep from getting discouraged and “hang in there” not knowing if you’re good enough?
Thank you very much for giving us readers this forum and ability to contact you!
July 17th, 2006 at 11:35 pm
Hi! First of all let me say thanks for reminding me that I too use to love to read (life sometimes gets in the way), and I just need to get back to it! Now for a question, I think there is a book swimming around in my head (or maybe its just those voices again), and I am not sure how to go about getting it out and on paper,,, any suggestions?? I really enjoyed your dear reader column!
Thanks and Have A Great Day!!
Rhonda Catrett
July 18th, 2006 at 2:02 am
Congrats on your maiden novel!!! How long was this time in coming from when you first concieved the idea for the book? What’s it like to have crossed this milestone?