Book writing advice sought

bambihunter

As some of you might know, I've had a lot of back problems resulting in 2 back surgeries and most likely a third one soon. I've had to close my computer service business because of it and I've been soul searching to try to figure out what I am going to do with my life. In schoool (both high school and college) I've written both fiction and research papers that got high acclaim by my instructors. I think there might be some possibilities for me to write books since it would go well with my now limited physically abilities.

If I recall there are several members here that have been published. Any suggestions, tips, or anything else pertaining to it would be greatly appreciated.

FreudianSlippers

If you want to get rich from writing, write the sort of thing that's read by people who move their lips when they're reading to themselves.[}:)]

---

Jacqueline
www.gratuitouslylongdomainname.com

"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants and the creed of slaves." -- William Pitt (1783)

bigdaddyjunior

I will tell you that if you wish to make money at it, children's books are the easiest to get published and can be cranked out rapidly. An illustrator is a must unless you are artistic as well. You'd probably be surprized at the number of children's authors that are big scary men writng under an assumed feminine identity.

Big Daddy my heros have always been cowboys,they still are it seems

SilverBox

Its not all that easy to break into that field BDJ. My sister tried for awhile with not much luck.

thunderbolt

Go to a library or bookstore and get a current copy of Writer's Market. It lists hundreds of markets for freelance writers.

daddo

Perhaps your first book should be titled "Computer servicing".[^]

bambihunter

No, I'm not wanting to do this to get rich. However, any additional income would be welcome. I just need some sort of mental stimulation (to go along with the other stimulation) [:0] while I'm fighting my back troubles.
I have thought about kids books, I'm not sure I can write "down" to that level. I don't mean that to sound arrogant, but I was the baby of the family, and my wife and I don't have any kids.
Daddo, I have thought about computer books and that may be a viable choice. However, I'm more of a "hands-on" guy - especially when it comes to my chosen profession (computers).
Thunderbolt, I'll check out that book if they have it. I was going to go to the library tonight but instead bought The Simpson's DVD so I'll watch it instead - hmmm, learn or watch cartoons... [:D]

bigdaddyjunior

Silverbox, I do hope she continues to try. Ofcourse the type of drivel they are trying to force my kids to read has titles like; My Two Moms, Dad and Uncle Bob etc..

Big Daddy my heros have always been cowboys,they still are it seems

kissgoodnight

Most junior colleges offer classes in the personal enrichment area. In Tulsa there are even published authors teaching these classes. The class is non-credit, mainly for adults, and can cover all manner of the writing field. Many other classes are offered in these same classes, flyfishing, painting, the art of giftwrapping, Tai Chi, self defense, backpacking, yoga, and dance of all kinds. On writing there is, Want to Be a Writer, Heat Up Your Writing, Creative Writing, Development of The Novel, 17 Ways to Make A Living Writing, Writing The Short Story, and the list goes on.
OK, I cheated I was looking in the Tulsa Community College schedule for the fall. But you get the idea. These classes cost about $25 to $75 per course and meet once a week.

bambihunter

I never thought about looking at the JuCo. I have one class I need to take there anyway. I'll look it up too.
Thanks guys, it'll at least give me somewhere to start.

nitrouz

Write a book about how the world will be effected when the oil runs out..Let's say China, Russia, Iran, all the bad guys are hovering over their stash of oil and eye balling the U.S. and it's reserves..the oil wells in the States that haven't been tapped yet.

World War III

Make sure you put in there California fell quickly and suffered harshly because the people were unarmed.

Maybe get a movie deal and make millions.



"He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one."
- Jesus Christ in Luke 22:36

Nomad00

My mom wrote/co-wrote 2 books, and writes monthly for a national magazine (no not dear Abby [:D]). She does consulting, judging, seminars, etc. Her advice is to just do something you like and/or good at and build from there. Maybe open a simulated Bambihunting camp where people can hone their shooting skills[;)][:o)][:D]. Seriously, maybe you could write a book on the daily struggles of dealing with back pain/surgeries...possible exercises, stretches, best sleeping position, etc. While this makes no money, online gaming is a fun way to spend idle time at home. There's a game for everyone out there. GL!

420

rcdis

Try writing about something you enjoy, it would require some research but there could be a market for books on guns. There are many out there but could be room for some more. You might do something on the gun collections at some of the museums, like the Kit Carson in Toas.