In fiction, plot is defined as the series of events (action) that make up a story. Most plots follow a structure known as Freytag’s triangle, which has five basic elements: Exposition/Introduction Inciting Incident Rising Action Climax Denouement...

Urban fiction, also known as street lit, hip-hop lit, gansta lit, or ghetto lit, tells the story of life in the inner-city, generally with a gritty, dark tone. The plot shines a light on the harsh realities of life in the city, including hard subjects...

One of the most essential tools for marketing your book is a one-sheet (also known as a sell-sheet). It exemplifies professionalism and gives a potential publisher, agent, or member of the media a polished summary of what you and your book are all about...

While many just write query letters, there's a whole other option that very few know about called the proposal package. Learn how Derek created a proposal package that got his book into a bidding war between Penguin, Random House, and Holt/Macmillan...

People respond to stories. Compelling stories of real life experiences impact audiences and readers in ways no other words can. You may want to write a book about an important episode of your life. You may want your fiction to reflect your own experiences...

Do you feel like you can never find the time to write? Have you been chipping away at the same manuscript forever without much progress? Wrangling a fickle muse to meet a deadline—or just to get rid of that looming blank page—is a life-skill for everyone...

Endorsements are blurbs from experts or other authors that lend credibility to your work, and are an important book marketing asset. How do you get great endorsements for your book? In this session, book strategist Cathy Fyock shares her tips and ideas...

Authors are always looking for new ways to increase the chances of readers finding their book online. Most people start small, relying on word of mouth and self-promotion, but where do you start when the time comes to tackle the massive marketplace that...

You're speaking for a conference, book signing, or other event. How do you sell more books? In this session, led by Cathy Fyock, coauthor of The Speaker Author, you'll learn more about: • How to pre-sell books before you speak • How to maximize interest...

How-to books continue to be a popular category in non-fiction, as reader enthusiasm for self-learning and self-improvement grows. Authors of how-to books have the unique opportunity to provide ongoing learning by taking their written knowledge and content...