When I saw congrats and squee!s for Melanie at The Big Mama Blog burning up twitter yesterday, I scrambled to find out her news. After refreshing her crashed blog 47 times, I finally read that she recently signed a contract to write a book for Tyndale! And I quietly rejoiced with her in my heart because I know her journey was not quick and easy. I know the fear and the responsibility that come out of the shadows as soon as you sign your name on the line above the word author. I know the unexpected panic that seems to accompany a book contract, the kind you are completely unprepared for, tempting you to want to do anything but write that book.
Might I tread lightly into uncomfortable waters for a moment? Am I wrong to say that sometimes when a blogger announces they have an agent and are writing a book for a publisher and everything, am I wrong to say that sometimes it can bring a heavy cloud of discouragement? Because even though everyone knows that one person’s success doesn’t decrease anyone else’s chances, sometimes it feels that way.
And so we sit in a corner of scarcity, fearing our ideas will never be read, heard, seen, or appreciated. Three years ago when I was busy working on a book proposal, I was sure any real person in publishing would laugh at my ideas all the way back to their big city book office. Sometimes it was difficult to hear the success stories because I worried there were secrets I didn’t know. I worried my ideas were ridiculous, my writing was mediocre, and my desire to write would always only be a desire. Nothing more.
If publishing is something you are serious about, if writing has always been your thing, please don’t allow discouragement to derail you in your journey towards publication. Might I offer you some encouragement today in the form of words from a friend and writing mentor?
Mary DeMuth has written a fabulous 300 page book called The 11 Secrets of Getting Published. And she should know. She wrote in obscurity for ten years with no book and no recognition. Now, she’s the author of 12 books and counting. This girl knows some secrets. One of the things I love about Mary is that she is relatable, touch-able, personable and honest. (Okay that’s four things). She is a successful author who has translated her work into tips and keys for the rest of us. And then she put them all in an ebook for us to refer to as much as we want. There are no secrets with her.
11 people who need The 11 Secrets of Getting Published:
- a man or woman who wants to learn more about publishing or writing in general
- anyone who wants to clean up their writing, hone their skills, and better learn the craft
- anyone who needs encouragement on her journey towards publication
- a writer who wants to write a book proposal and wants someone to tell them what to do
- an author who is published and wants advice on marketing, career, and purpose
- a fearful writer who worries about both failure and success
- a non-fiction writer who wants tips and perspective
- a fiction writer who needs direction and motivation
- a writer who wants to learn more about the difference between self-publishing and traditional publishing
- a blogger who is curious about publishing and what it might mean
- anyone who has always wanted a writing mentor
“Did you know that George Clooney appeared in The Golden Girls’ episode, “To Catch a Neighbor” in 1987? He was one of the two police officers who stayed in the women’s home as protection. And now what’s he up to? Anything he wants. But George had to work. He had to pretend he was a young police man on The Golden Girls. He paid his dues.”
Mary DeMuth, 11 Secrets
The 11 Secrets of Getting Published is only $4.99. For the cost of a venti frappuccino you can have Mary’s hard earned wisdom and advice at your fingertips. And it won’t give you a stomachache or cellulite. You can have it delivered to your Kindle, Nook, or email as a simple PDF. Today, Mary is giving away 10 copies to 10 commenters on this post! Simply leave your answer to this question to enter:
If you could write about anything in the whole wide world, what would it be? Magical fiction? A blog about cooking? A rich and full memoir? Short stories? A book about the love of God? A column in a magazine? Pay no attention to that voice of reason. Just answer honestly in the comments. Ten winners will be notified Friday September 29. Go.
my dream is to write wonderful fiction for the tweens. what is out there now is such garbage and so dark. i know bc i was caught in its trap when i was that age.
I write a little on my blog…but if I dared to dream I’d love to write a book. I don’t know if that is what God has in store for me…but my journey through depression and finding hope on dark days are the places I’d like to write about if given the opportunity.
Candace, I think this sort of encouragement is very needed in the Christian literature. I hope you write what is on your heart.
Christena, thank you! I agree with you completely, being a Christian and struggling with depression can be a dark and lonley place. I couldn’t tell anyone for months…but God has taken me on quite the journey to authenticity and sharing with one another…it’s hard, but so worth it. It definitely needs to be talked about more!!
Candace, there is something I’d like you to remember about God, that helped me conquer the fears I had about writing and painting- He is the Great Creator and made us in His image/likeness – in that he made us to be creative, just like Him! If this doesn’t convince you that you have the right to write, the inner makings to do it, then remember too, that in our own small way we can bring glory to Him, ( even praise or a kind of worship), by such works as well.
I write for myself- but I feel He would support me in the efforts, because there’s nothing about portraying a human experience that should shame us, or Him. Rather, we bring something forth that enables others to see the world, their world, in a different way- and maybe with a little more light. We should all do as much as we can to shine lights in this world.
I also believe that God won’t always say “do this” or “don’t do that” in plain English. And we can’t always see an ‘open door’ right off. We find out sometimes what he’d like for us by pushing on those doors to see if they open. Believe me, writing IS pushing! If He implants in us such things as our dreams, our hopes, our desires AND the tools/talents to go that direction, isn’t that enough?
So… if you never get published, you can still share your work with others- self-publishing at the very least. There’s no reason not to sit down and give it a try. I wish you luck!
My dream is to write an encouraging book about God’s love, truth and promises using scripture and everyday life stories that everyone can relate to! Thanks for sharing this e-book!
I started a mystery years ago. I’d still love to write a mystery series. I’d also love to write a memoir.
A book of poems that anyone can understand, and that help them notice more beautiful details in the world.
I would love to finish the book I started writing. It’s a Christian romance novel, set in the 1920′s. I’ve tried to write before, even went to a Christian writers conference and had two publishers ask for my manuscript but after that I just froze. It is terrifying to me to actually finish it and send it off because, what if they hate it? I’d love to read this e-book. Hopefully it would boost my confidence and help me get moving in the right direction. Thanks for offering this giveaway!
Sarah, let’s encourage each other! I am still trying to finish one!
my heart is literally pounding as i write this comment. and now hands shaking on the keyboard. by commenting, in hopes to win a copy … it means it’s true. i want to write a book. and honestly, i’m not so sure it’s that i want to write a book … i mean, come on … WRITE a book!?! it’s more that i NEED to tell my story.
God’s given me a story. a dark, difficult story. a story that others walk, but hide. or walk … without Him.
but because of His promises, His mercy, His grace, His faithfulness … i’m walking it with Him. and i want others to as well. no one has to walk alone … we are not alone! we’re all one in Him. even in our dark, scary days … we are one in Him.
so there, i’ve said it. i’ve admitted it. i want nothing {but more importantly, i believe it’s what He wants me to to} more than to write a book that shares my story, and draws people to Him in the process.
Go for it!
Sounds intriguing – I would love to read it when its finished. I can definitely relate to the idea that writing a book doesn’t seem like the ‘save the world’ career everyone else has and yet it’s a gift…and a purpose, for whatever reason God deems for it. I just hope I can write it.
Seriously? Write it. Really. Just write it. Please. If God puts something that strong on your heart, write it.
I am dreaming of being an suthor…love blogging but not sure how to translate that into a book. I love how so many women – Emily you included – have found a platform to encourage others with the word of God….hoping some day I can do the same!
I would really love to write non-fiction for children – especially science and possibly a picture book that keeps haunting me. If ever I dare.
So many wonderful book ideas!! I’ll add mine to the mix and hope to win also
The Lord gave me a title and a tag one evening just before I went to bed about 6 months ago. I told Him “ooh… Good one. I’d read that… What? You want ME to write it??” And then I may have laughed. I’m not a writer, I said. And then he reminded me of a hearts desire I had as a little girl to write books. So then I cried. I had forgotten, but He hadn’t.
I’ve started writing it in a notebook… You know, a real one, not a computer, because mine is broken. And I’ve told a grand total of 4 people. Three weeks ago. I’m still struggling to put it out there here! It’s about taking to heart the names God calls us, to override the names we are called here on earth, by people, Satan and ourselves. Because His names are truth, and the others are lies. It’s been an incredible thing for my own self to study and discover as I go. God is so good.
Wow, you have an amazing voice. Keep writing and hopefully one day soon I’ll be able to buy a copy!
I would love to write a book about writing…but I would never dare because who wants to read a book about writing by someone who has never published a book?!
Love this post, Emily — totally relate to your honesty.
I love to write…I write a little blog about my family, but have always dreamed of doing more. I teach teenage girls about purity several times a year and have always dreamed of putting it in writing. Writing a book that warns young girls…that encourages them to guard their hearts….I just don’t know where to start:). Would love to win!!!!
My journey from loving myself to loving the poor. I like you a lot, Emily P. Freeman.
I bet she likes you too.
I do! I do like you a lot too!
I would finish the novel I began last November – Redeeming Silence
The love of God silences the voice of fear and shame in those that have been abused, redeeming them for His glory.
I’m constantly reading books and wishing I had written them. So, since I’ve lately been on a literary murder mystery kick, I’m dreaming of writing a mystery that celebrates hope and healing. I’ve also written a memoir, but that file has sat on my computer untouched for months. Perhaps it’s time to take another look at it but with Mary’s book in hand?
What a fun question! If I could write about anything in the whole wide world, I would write a non-fiction book about the pressure to be “perfect” and how we are only made perfect in Christ.
Oh, pick me! Pick me!
I’m working on a devotional book right now, so that’s what I’d do. Because I’m doing it.
I would write fiction. My books would be adventures for boys (or girls…) centered around ranch life in the high desert of New Mexico.
I would write a Bible study devotional. I really want to create something that encourages women to move beyond just a short story and a few verses and really challenges them to apply Scripture to their everyday lives. Maybe someday…
My journey from being a ‘good parent’ to being a parent that helps her children find true healing and hope.
This post is exactly what I needed! Thank you so much! As someone who is more of an accidental author than anything else, I often have a cloud of discouraging thoughts and I wonder if my work is good enough. Do I really want to wait ten years–could I endure ten years of rejection and disappointment for something that came along almost by accident?
I think, now that I’ve finally decided to heed the prodding of many people in my life and actually embrace writing, I want to write real stories about real people… stories that transcend good writing, but connect with the core of what it means to be human, highlighting how God works in and with us… stories that may not be unforgettable, but will challenge hearts and minds.
I’m just an ordinary Jamaican girl, and I wonder what I can do, but maybe that’s not the point. IF writing is what God wants to do through me, then I’m learning how to be available. Again, thank you soooooooooooooooooo much for this post!
God bless you richly.
I would write the story of my Grandmother’s life and her strength she had in God. She was thirty six years old and fighting breast cancer. She had five children ranging from the ages of 5-15 during her time of trial. During her fight with the cancer, my grandmother lost her breast as well as her muscle mass but in all of this, she never lost her faith in God. She still taught my Aunts, Uncle, and mother that no matter what God has in store for you, you never loose faith because God knows what he’s doing. I never met my grandmother. She died on Christmas Day five years before I was born. Her fight was short lived but her love for God will last a lifetime. She’s my hero.
I’ve dreamed about writing children’s books for a long while. Not that long ago my husband confided that he had the same dream. We’ve only just started (as in, it’s still mostly an idea that is only just finding itself sketched onto paper)… but I honestly have no idea where to go or what to do. This book sounds exactly like what we need.
I would actually *finish* writing a fairy tale begun five years ago.
Yes, finish it.
I want this. And if I don’t win it, I’m getting it anyway. What would I write? Well, what I wish I could write is a literary novel or various works of history but I don’t think either of those are in me. Instead, I have my own story. It is ugly and messy and only a few people even know about it. I’m a long way from the starting line of courage I’d need to write it. And honestly, it’s still being lived out in the trenches. But maybe one day….
I’ve been staring at this comment box for a while now, wondering just what to write. It’s funny, when you’ve been writing since second grade and you’re working toward a journalism degree, but then when someone reminds you of what you truly want to do, your mind goes blank.
My fiancé is in the military. I would love to write a non-fiction book that includes the stories of military families and things they’ve learned in this lifestyle, and then pair those stories with Bible verses and devotionals. It can seem so intimidating, so foreign – especially to a college student about to graduate, get married and move across the country without her friends or family. … I want other women to know that they are not alone, that there are other women who have done the same thing and who have wisdom and advice to impart, that no matter where they are, there is a God who is listening to them.
Life. I would write about the reality that is that we fight so hard to deny. Life is hard and sometimes the journey is long to understand hope and healing. We all want to be somewhere else instead of living where God means us to be. Here. Where he is. Now.
I would write a series of nonfiction/inspirational books for children explaining the diseases with which their friends and families may be suffering. It is so hard to have a loved one suffer a stroke, alzheimer’s, cancer or panic disorder (to name just a few) and there are very few resources written for children to help make sense of it all.
I own Mary’s book and it’s WONDERFUL!
I’m one that tends to get discouraged easily, my blog is still fairly new and I rarely get comments, so I often wonder if anyone is out there reading it. But I put blinders on and write anyway. It’s people like you Emily, that gives me the most encouragement to keep on going. So thank you for your kind words, always.
Thanks Lori. Keep plugging away. Be disciplined. It will pay off.
I write pretty much every day. But I’d love to figure out how to translate the cooking portion of my blog into a cookbook. I’ve always said I’d like to write a children’s book, and I have ideas that rattle around in my brain. I plan to do an ABC Farm Book with photography and text for my granddaughter due in January. How could that translate into a book with a wider audience? I’d love to read tips that might make my dreams a reality!
I have been working on a book manuscript for the past 4 years entitled My Walk with Eden (my blog is the same title). I have been so scared to publish it, even though I know God is guiding my pen. My grandfather was a writer, and I feel God wants me to continue his legacy through the written word. I could glean much from these “11 Secrets”!!
I’d like to write a novel.
The best thing to do is just sit down and write one. Then another one. Then another. You learn by doing it.
Wow. I’m blown away by the comments up there…in the best possible way!
I’ve always loved fiction. Early in my marriage I started not one, but two Christian fiction stories. My Hubby was so encouraging (still is) and heard the whispers of my heart even when I tried to ignore them. My insecurities were shouting over those whispers….
Well, it’s 11 years later and I just stumbled over those stories yesterday while decluttering our bedroom. This post is so timely! So, yes, I would love to read Mary’s e-book!
I would write to young women. I want to help them understand how to become a lady and a woman of virtue, not a woman of the world.
I’ve always known that I was destined to be a writer in some capacity. My grandmother was an English teacher and a writer, and she pushed me, at a young age, to discover my unique writing style. I finally started a blog that is truly providing me a forum to speak from my heart. As I write blog post after blog post, I only pause to think that this passion and this message could transform into a book some day. One that would describe unique, but typical, situations in life where individuals must choose to follow their heart — an not always the conventional thoughts of society or what they think other people might want.
I have pages and pages of ideas – and more that come every day!
I feel most drawn toward teen fiction novels at this time I think. But I have ideas for picture books and magazine articles also. I would love to write my memoir someday – maybe after I’ve lived a bit longer first
My approach is to start with baby steps – magazine articles, then someday to my books. Books has always been the ultimate goal, though. I love to write!
Thank you for this post!
My head is swimming. I feel a bit like that commercial where the asterisk follows people around. My story is following me around, I just have no idea what it is. I think this book, might inspire enough to let me see it!
Ah yes, the ghost that follows you! Pay attention!
I once had a college professor tell me, “You must be a science major”, to which I responded, “Yes, why?”
He went on to explain to me how my writing was factual and dry. It lacked character and life but did a phenomenal job of stating the facts and the rhyme and reason behind everything. He gave me a “B” out of shear sympathy that I was a biology major stuck in a writing intensive class titled “Johanian Literature”.
Ever since I have wanted to prove him wrong–to show myself that I can write with color and flair and emotion…but what would I write about? What has color, flair, emotion? Well, I have 4 kiddos, my husband is a youth pastor, I am a very relational female who loves to invest in relationships and relationships as we know are messy
and I live my life on a day to day basis relying 150% on the grace of my Father and crying out each day for the manna that I need just for that day. Just for that day.
I would love to write a book about that. My story combined and intertwined with the GRACE and SOVEREIGNTY of our GOD and how that has shaped my approach to marriage, motherhood, and “manna-living”
You are a blessing for getting my wheels turning! But it also does stir up that fear of failure and the hesitation that for me comes with not wanting to try something and fail. To my knees I go….
each time you write a post about exploring art, writing…i feel this huge push to go. for. it.
at this point i would write anything i could. but i think my writing leans towards the memoir-ish.
I love fiction, esp Romantic suspense. I adore quirky characters and exploring new towns.
I would write a Christian novel…a non-romance one…the one I’ve had in my head for probably 15 years and been too afraid to try.
my dream is to create personalized fairytales/children’s stories about each of my girls’ childhoods from the time they were each born until they “leave the nest”. and then to have those stories illustrated and bound and give them as gifts when they are married or have their first child.
What do I want to write? I want to write that rich, full memoir in hopes that it will encourage other women toward Christ. I also want to write multiple women’s fiction novels that touch on different women’s issues and bring them some nugget of hope or wisdom.
Mary is an incredible author, and I love reading her books!
Thank you, Alycia!
*Because even though everyone knows that one person’s success doesn’t decrease anyone else’s chances, sometimes it feels that way.*
Thank you for writing those words. As I read your blog and the comments above, I understand that I am not alone in my fear and trepidation. Why are we so afraid of what God has so plainly written on our hearts?
I want to write Bible studies that help women love God’s word. I don’t want them to just read a verse and fill in the blank but to understand how it is living and active and applicable to their lives.
First, I would like to say thank you for writig your book. It has been VERY good for me in VERY hard ways. I will admit that yesterday I almost threw it on the floor for being so convicting. I am trying to read it slowly enough to digest it and apply it. Thank you for following through on what God has called you to.
As the wife of a youth pastor, I wish I could write something that would truely portray to young girls that it WILL get better, that it IS a good thing to be who you truly are, and that God IS working things out for good. I wish I could help them see the goodness and love that God has for them now and in the future. I wish I could show them how much perfect intrinsic value they have just as they are so that they could grow up with a better outlook than I and so many others have.
Blessings.
I so relate to this. I’m one of those authors with a long apprenticeship. It’ll be fourteen years, eleven manuscripts, and over for hundred rejections by the time I see my book on the shelves next year. Honestly, I’m glad I started the process pre-blogosphere. As wonderful as the bonds I’ve created have been, I think hearing others’ good news on a regular basis and in such a constant way would have been soul crushing for me. I’m thankful for the years I plugged away without the chatter, finding my voice and learning to persevere.
I have two books mulling around in my mind, both nonfiction. The first would be for teens who have been sexually abused and need to know that there is redemption.
I’m still waiting on clarity for the other. Several ideas with the same theme, that I’m praying for God to mesh together for me.
And don’t put me in the drawing. The book looked so good that I’ve already downloaded to my kindle. Just wanted to thank her for writing it. Please tell her that her response of obedience to Him on this book is already being used in MY life.
Blessings.
Thanks for downloading it, Barb. And that is a VERY important subject to write about.
if i could write about anything in the whole, wide world what would it be? that’s just it, i dunno exactly. i would like to write something that builds up, something that shines Light and bears Truth…. something that matters to an audience of One, yet is enjoyed by others…. that’s a lot to hope for, isn’t it? when i take all that & try to pare it down to one thing in particular my mind is here, there, and everywhere… perhaps in time – in His good time (:
Well, I would write about two women named Lainey and Sheila.
I don’t consider myself a writer, never have. But I am a teacher, which is somewhat a kin to a writer, no? Just read LL Barkat’s Rumors of Water. Read it in one sitting and now want to read it again. I feel the tug to write, something just not sure what.
Would love to glean insight from Mary’s book as well. Thanks for sharing!
Emily, I found your blog from Sandys (the RE). I wanted to check out what you were about to follow your 31 day series, but I did not expect to find such an encouraging post. Wow! I have never heard of your friend Mary and I cannot wait to check out her writing. Thanks for sharing. I would love it if you took the time to check out my 31 days of Meals 4 Sharing. Thanks and Many Blessings!
Nice to meet you, Sheila.
I would write devotions. Plain and simple. I’d take all those things God shows me in my quiet time, the stuff that deals with the ordinary and the everyday, the stuff that ministers most to me personally, and I’d write that for others.
If I could write anything, I would write fantasy books for children and young adults. I want to write books that are going to catch a generation up into the love of their Creator. I want the message to be subtle yet pungunt so that anyone can enjoy my work. I want my writing to glorify God.
I’d write a book for women, exploring the connection between femininity and worship, how our bodies count, and are valued by God. I dream of researching and compiling an accessible, inspirational book for women that walks with them toward a point of feeling comfortable in their own skin.
Oh NO! 51 comments already? Okay, I will not be discouraged, I’ll be (in)couraged! I would love to read how Mary suggests accomplishing publication. I think I’ll order a copy for myself and to share with others.
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If I could write anything, I would get a contract for my homeschool organizing book! My daughter keeps trying to get me to write fiction, but I just don’t have that kind of imagination (or time). I have Mary’s Non-Fiction Proposal book/template and I’m convinced that it helped me to land an agent. Now I’m at the discouraged-because-no-publishers-have-bitten-yet stage, and I would love to read Mary’s latest advice and encouragement.
That is so cool to hear, Bethany! You go, girl!
I would write Bible Studies teaching women the great Truths of the Bible. My desire is along thier journey they would be empowered and learn the skills/strategies to study the Bible personally and not have to feel like they needed a “Bible Study” to feast on God’s Word.
That sounds wonderful, Emily! Do it!
Oh, oh, oh. I would write about real life, what I’ve learned from it. There is power in words, real words from living a real life unedited. You know, it would include the good, the bad and the ugly. People know truth when they hear it. Truth teaches minds, touches hearts and elevates spirits. That is the kind of book I’d write, the kind that makes it’s mark on a heart and leaves the mind in a better place.
I’d write to be heard, I’m not sure about what. I just want to make a difference. I’m down on blogging right now, it seems no one reads it. But I know I have wisdom and humor to share.
Amazing, encouraging, inspiring post!
I think I would probably write something along the lines of what I already write – Christian romance with a divine touch…God always seems to place an angel somewhere in my books. I want to always include some central “message” (without preaching it, of course) that uplifts, encourages, and assures the reader that there IS hope, and that God IS real, while entertaining them with a romance carried out on this side of the bedroom door.
So, I am one of those wannabe, dream-tucked-behind-closed-doors kind of writers because while I LOVE to write, the fear of putting something out there that might be crazy just scares me to death!
What would I write about? Loaded question! My heart busts at the seams some nights with ideas, while other nights I scratch my head at those same ideas and wonder why I thought they were good in the first place. 
I’ve been praying that God would lead me to the topic(s) that I am specifically to write about. I’m new to blogging, so that has given me a taste. I have a passion for seeing people experience God’s love and grace in a way they never have before. I just want to write what’s on His heart….that’s pretty broad, I know! I’m still trying to figure it out, and where I fall into the mix.
Love your book, by the way! Thank you for doing this giveaway
You are very smile-y!
i love your encouraging words… for other authors
your little bits of wisdom. i think you are very kind to share!!
I actually wrote a paragraph when I was about 15 about what I’d write in a book if given the chance. Some of the ideas were “a collection of short stories… mainly [about] life, love, relationships and their problems, and work”. I could also write a memoir because my life so far is Oprah-worthy. Or a biography about my mother (age 91) and her fantastic life.
I have two children’s books written for my grandkids I’d love to actually publish!
Great article! And Mary is a great speaker as well.
ah shucks.
I would write to encourage women, to help them be free to be themselves, so that they & the world wouldn’t miss out on
what they have. I am still learning this myself!!
I would write a book that increases awareness of domestic violence enough to make a difference. A book that would open eyes and motivate victims to get out and be safe. Especially when children are involved.
Actually, I’m writing that book now, so my real hope is that it gets published and people read it!
Although I have tracked down many of my former classmates, friends, neighbors from the past, my greatest joy would be to write about repentance, forgiveness and grace concerning the years that I was away from the Lord and fighting my calling. If I could reach the people still alive, I believe it would Glorify the Lord! So many people do not understand true repentance and what that means…not a legalistic of following rules, but a journey to find out what God really desires.
I really really want to write a memoir! And I really really want to have the time and space to write it in!!
In deepest recesses of my heart, my secret writing dream is to write a fictin book that reveals the hope of redemption and restoration. There I said it. eek
I like that!
I write short stories, and have a YA Novel waiting: do I seek an agent or send directly to a publisher? Waiting for clarity, for courage, for perhaps a bolt of light from heaven to illuminate the path? Your words, Emily, and this chance to win Mary’s book (I hope!) help to give me the courage and confidence to move forward. To not keep the book hiding in the file drawer. I want to encourage young women to live their lives with courage and confidence. Hmm, looks like I need it more myself. But, isn’t that a big part of what writing is?
An agent first. Then the agent shops it to publishers.
Maureen, there are a number of great agent and author blogs for the children’s market that will give you some direction. Agent Mary Kole has a popular one called Kitlit.com. It’s a great place to start.
I have wanted to write the great American novel since I was 13. However, blog posts about my family and my daily life seem to be all I can churn out. I’m not giving up on my dream though.
I would need to have some writing lessons to begin the journey. I would love to write a blog, but have not a clue what would be of interest to blog about…..there are so many excellent blogs out there now. HELP!!!!
I want to write/illustrate a childrens book about adoption. I made one that had touch and feely parts like a baby/ board book for our little Grace. We were able to send it to her in Ecuador months before we were able to travel- everyone that sees it falls in love. (I cant believe I posted this)
I am getting this book if I don’t end up winning it. My mother has been writing a book of encouragment for parents who have a Special Needs child. A sort of “real-life stories about my brother combined with scripture and words of healing for parents”…book. It’s still very much an open-ended piece and I’ve been trying to help her edit, or guide her…prompting her to dig deep, even thought it hurts. Because it does. But that’s what connects, the real stuff. This book looks like an amazing tool to help her and give her more resolve to finish. Thank you for highlighting it!
oops, I mean my brother – her son. : )
If I could write about anything in the whole wide world, I’d tell people my story: about the rape and abuse, about hiding away from God, how He wooed me back to Him, the long and painful healing journey, rebuilding, the difficulties in the midst of the blessing of “happily ever after” – all of it. That’s what I would write.
This is an important thing to write about it. You’ll find healing; then others will.
I am actually in the midst of writing my first book on what I believe the Lord has put on my heart. I am writing a book on healing and hope. It is the true story of my life dealing with mental breakdowns, lengthy hospitalization, phobias, depression, anxiety and suicide attempts. It shows a broken life that has no hope, until one day in midlife when I experienced the fullness of God’s grace and mercy.
I continue to battle the self doubts and inabilities that face me often. I choose to believe in the Lord’s words to me when I believe, for whatever purpose, he told me to write this book. He continues to write the pages for me and as I write, I continue to heal. The Lord is good!
I would love to win Mary’s book, but if I don’t, to those who do, put it to good use. Read it and act on the pages you have read. The Lord wants you to speak. God bless.
I always thought I wanted to write and illustrate children’s books. I wanted to show how God is in the everyday things, and in the not-so-everyday things. As I grow, I think about my life story with all the twists and turns and wonder if that is something I should be putting to paper to show God’s grace and so much more. . .
“If you could write about anything in the whole wide world, what would it be?”
…. And there’s my problem. There’s SO MUCH I want to write about, it’s overwhelming and I end up writing nothing at all. I started college with the intent of becoming writer, than the real world slapped me in the face. So I fled into the clenches of a practical, well-paying career which has completely zapped my inner-author.
Healthy families. What disfunction does to you and how to let God change your patterns and teach you to functionally parent with love, grace, and faith.
If I could write anything – if I had the talent and the ideas and the determination to write any genre – I would write everything. I would blog and I would contribute articles to magazines. I would write Christian chick lit and mysteries and epic adventures for the young adult world. I would write books about life as a woman of God. I would write memoirs and historical fiction. And in my free time – ha! – I would write (and film) a fun show for the Travel Channel. If only I could write anything…!
I have been mulling over a “mom” book for several years and just now I feel God opening the floodgates. And it’s terrifying and exciting and overwhelming and (fill in the blank) all at the same time. My particular book would focus on every mom being in the midst of God’s presence every moment of everyday … if only our eyes were open. I am compiling my own essays that direct my readers to see the ordinary mommy-motions of each day as sacred.
I have always had a dream about writing about my experience with mental illness. I would tell about how I struggled with knowing I was living a lie, a lie that evolved from being in a relationship with a man who was a sex addict. From his addiction, we lived on the surface, wore masks and pretended to be just fine. How similar this was to my growing up years of having two alcoholic parents. I was also molested by two boys from my neighborhood. No one would believe me. My own illness came as I began to challenge the lies and masks. The vacillation between truth and lies became too much for me to handle. The stress basically broke my mind. Yet, I wasn’t finished yet as Jesus became my Savior. Ever since that day, maybe ten years ago, when I heard Pachelbel Canon for the first time. I envisioned Jesus and I waltzing on the beach. That day, I realized His love for me, and we began a slow healing journey. It definitely isn’t finished yet, but there is progress. There is hope.
This story needs to be told.
I love Mary DeMuth! And Emily, your “Good Girl” video is EXCELLENT. Can’t wait to read your book! I’m writing a Bible Study about grace for women right now, and am devouring everything even remotely addressing the theme. To be entered to win one of Mary’s books, “If I could write anything, I’d write a book that would help free women from the issues that hold them back.”
You are way too fun! Love you Kathy!
I would write about obedience. As a parent of five (four teenagers) I’ve learned so much about what it really means to obey a loving God and why obedience is so important.
Oh my, I would write a memoir about growing up as a PK (preacher’s kid) and forgiveness, a novel loosely based on how I met my husband (a la Pioneer Woman), a fashion for dummies book, and a book about marriage. But if I win this giveaway, I will give it to one of my best friends. She has written a stellar novel, but is doubting herself and fearing rejection and failure, and just doesn’t know where to start. She would LOVE this book!
The story of this life and how God’s faithfulness has been unending and never failing, how no matter the situation, no matter the brokenness, HE is the lifter of my head, the One who has kept me, pulled me up, pushed me forward…the Constant goodness, the Constant Light in all the darkness.
I want to finish some of the children’s books I’ve started, and write many more.
If I could write a book about anything… I would write one about the story that’s been put in my mind and on my heart for several years now about a repentant husband finding forgiveness, freedom, salvation and healing in the restoration of his marriage and redemption of his soul.
I would write the book that God has laid upon me, which is cross-genre and completely unreasonable. I don’t know how He expects me to be both intuitive and rational at the same time, which this book would require, but I do know that He only asks of me what He knows I can actually accomplish, if I do it with Him. He is asking me to trust, trust, and trust some more. And I realize I need to obey, obey, and obey.
There is joy in obedience. Write that story.
If I could write a book about anything, I would write about joy in the midst of suffering.
I want to write about women in the church, but that seems maybe a little too deep, and a little too personal. But I’d love to.
If I could write anything I would write my story, a story of grace and struggles and sometimes just the average woman trying to survive as a mother, daughter, wife and friend. I would want it to showcase how my generation is not a lazy generation, and that we don’t know everything, we certainly do know a lot more than people give us credit for!
My dream is to write a book on my experiences with depression, anxiety, suicide and child loss. This has been living on my heart for ten years now but has never actually made its way onto paper! I would belove the “fearful of rejection” type
Emily, I was just on the phone with someone from our ministry that I have been mentoring and seeking to convey and inspire her in the beauty of blogging and how it develops writing and encourages us in the community in this sphere you just can’t find most anywhere else! I mentioned your blog for her to check out and how I love you! and how you encourage us to dream and to not listen to all of those cynical and discouraging voices {many just in ourselves} and create a community here just like that and here we are! Perfectly showing this…this post.
I am hoping to get my feet wet with the book I’d love to write in the 31 day series for October. It would be about seeking the heart of God and learning to receive and live His heart in this world and what it is to live that fire {fanning the flame] day in and day out…weaving in my own story and what it has meant to step out and trust Him in many ways–through my mom’s cancer journey and my own journey to being called to live overseas as a missionary…
Blessings, everyone, and may all of our journeys lead us deeper into His heart:}
I would write a fiction story that would (D.V.) encourage others to follow hard after God and keep their eyes fixed on Him… or a nonfiction book, to the same end.
Chapter novels for kids. It’s been my dream since I was a kid myself, because that literature changed me. But also magazine columns, and memoisr, and nonfiction about movies and books and culture. I love all these things.
Memoisr. A new genre I just invented. {oof}
That’s too funny.
I’ve had this tucked away in my Kindle wishlist. I guess I needed the reminder to get it. I am making my second attempt at writing my story. The first attempt didn’t make a dent in the Women of Faith 2010 Writing Contest, but I didn’t let that discourage me. I found my purpose and started again.
Keep at it.
Hmmm…I would write a book about creative ways to help your kids see the beauty (and God) in the everyday…to slow down and notice.
I would never consider myself a writer. But I have been putting posts on Facebook for sometime now and I have been told by others that I have a gift. I still find that very hard to believe. Anyway, I like Mary have suffered from the abuse of others in my lifetime and would love to share how God has set me free and what the journey to that recovery has been like. I just haven’t felt Facebook to be the correct platform for pouring out all of my guts so to speak. I just want to honor God in all that I do and I know that he uses these things (which we deem as horrible) as tools in our life to make us stronger and ultimately they can be used for his Glory ~
1. children’s picture books, 2. children’s literature that could also serve as a parallel to Christianity and the Bible, basically a new sort of “Narnia” and 3. adolescent literature that is clean, witty, encouraging, down-in-your-bones REAL … and doesn’t involve vampires. Seems hard to come by these days.
This book looks great!
I would write about building a real – and a really fulfilling – life. I would write about freedom and success and satisfaction, even when they initially come packaged as failure. I would write about how to make my experiences align with my dreams and how that makes the world a better place.
My personal journey with Christ… how He redeemed the messed up me
How He placed His HOPE within my hopelessness!
I would write the story God wants me to. So far, He’s let on that it’s about Him being the “lifter of our heads”. That he will withhold the Thing we’ve always sought until we realize that He is the one person who can meet our deepest needs. He allows our heads to fall in despair so that He can lift them, lock eyes with us, and begin to teach us to really live.
I would love to write a fiction novel but never seem able to get very far. Most of what I write are more devotional type writings. I have written some short stories for children but are not published. I know desire can be different than what comes out. I just write and write and if I feel like sharing it I share it on facebook and people comment on it that it helped them. I would really like to write a myriad of things but for now I write whatever comes out of my heart.
This would be a gift for my son. He is 16, very talented and has written 2 fantasy fiction novels but he has no idea how to go about getting published. God has given him many gifts and my prayer is that he learns to use them to glorify God!
He should look into Marcher Lord Press. They publish that kind of fiction.
Wow. This blog post could not be better timed for me. I had just started taking notes for a book I want to write on fear, when Angie Smith’s “What Women Fear” came on the scene. I was so discouraged that I stopped taking notes and set my ideas aside. I bought Angie’s book and am going to read it… and I know she has a different story and a different style from mine, but it is still slightly discouraging. This post is making me start to rethink putting away my ideas. Thank you!
I would write a book of encouragement for women, moms specifically, who live with the feeling that they aren’t enough… offering hope from God’s word about how He feels about them and loves them!
I think someday I’d love to write a memoir, but I don’t quite feel like I’m far enough down the road God is taking me to do that yet. I always find this to be a little more rare, but I love to write non-fiction. I LOVE the research process! My background is political science, history and law and I always think that the deep background and context for important figures, moments and decisions in our history are just as interesting as the actual events themselves (and sometimes much MORE interesting). I think as time passes, we lose the context. We lose the understanding of everything that was swirling around in the world, shaping that decision or that person. I’d like to capture some of that
Yeah, it took me until my forties until I felt I could write my memoir. Here it is if you’re interested: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042P5IKQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwrelevantpr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=B0042P5IKQ
It’s called Thin Places.
I would write about God’s faithfulness. His relentless pursuit of us!
I would love to write a book on how we can experience God’s Calming Presence in the chaos, noisy, stormy, beautiful thing we call life. My husband and I have also talked (dreamed) of writing a book on living a Godly marriage.
My Dad has always been my biggest inspiration in life. He has an amazing testimony that needs to be shared. We begged him to write it and he started writing his story about 15 years ago. Five pages is all that we have. Now he has alzheimers.
My prayer and desire is to write my dad’s story. I have two older sisters who also feel compelled to write it and I am praying about how the three of us could write it based on our own personalities and “take” on things (The Poisonwood Bible comes to mind!)
Emily- I’m currently reading your book. Thank you for writing- for fighting through the discouragement and faithfully sharing your heart. So many have already been blessed by it!
Has your dad written it down?
So many book ideas swirl in my head. I write them down on post-its, envelopes, scraps of paper, then keep telling myself that one day there will be a season for writing them once my son is grown. The big one for these past few years is a book about my journey through breast cancer at the age of 30. I want to tell about God’s goodness through what otherwise would have been the worst time of my life, and I want to help ease the fears of other young women with this diagnosis to encourage them along that difficult path.
Emily, you have been such an encouragement to me in the last several weeks. I’m grateful for you.
I am a pastor’s wife, and I love writing my blog, knowing that women are reading it and being encouraged. I don’t have many readers, but I want to honor the ones that I have (got that from you). I want to encourage women to love Jesus, to love the Gospel of grace and to love the Church. However it happens. I just want to become a better writer and see how the Lord might be glorified.
Thanks for sharing with us!
Hi Emily… and Mary,
First off, Emily, I love how you said that Mary’s book, unlike a frappucion, would not give us a stomach ache or cellulite! So true.
I would love to write a book and be published. I am a perfectionist at heart who is anything but perfect. I started a blog one year ago and am in the midst of transitioning to another that I feel may better suit my voice.
The book idea:
Writing about persecuted Christians, people in the American church, and how the two are of One Body and therefore one cause. We are soldiers in a spiritual battle and we have fellow POWs who need us to work towards their rescue. Similarly we have unreached people groups desperately in need of spiritual cover.
Thanks for the book recommendation. You are a blessing.
Brooke
Great idea!
Emily,
thanks for your giveaway. And by the way thanks for your book! I am crawling through it, I have to grab my journal every few pages! It is chock full of thinking. When I am done I will do an Amazon review.
My writing – I have published a non-fiction book (The Artistic Mother) with a non-fiction publisher and have just completed a novel which is based on the book of Ruth. My question is what next? Non-fiction and fiction are completely different bags. Do I keep editing, try to get an agent, start the next book in the trilogy I have dreamed up? So I would love this ebook to get some insights. If I don’t win it I will get it anyhow, as you so rightly pointed out it is the cost of a coffee! I love your clear perspective on things!!
There is hope. I write both nonfiction and fiction. (6 fiction, 6 nonfiction).
Thank you for all you do to encourage others, Emily. I really appreciate it. I just read Melanie’s news on her blog and I put my head down on my desk and cried the ugly cry. She articulated the very things I have silently struggled with regarding writing: avoiding it, fearing it, wrestling with God over what He has called me to do, guilt over not using my gifts to the best of my ability. I can also relate to feeling a bit of the discouragement you mentioned in this post. I am not commenting to enter the contest as I have already downloaded Mary’s book to my Kindle. I have heard such wonderful things about her from other writers who have attended conferences with her. Looking forward to reading it.
Hi Emily,
The story I would love to write is a fairytale about a young girl who is powerful, magical and exceptionally loved, and left in the care of a family that is not her own. She is raised by a complicated woman who struggles with jealousy and hatred of the young girl, but still does her best to do right because the woman knows she has to answer for the well-being of the child at some point.
The young girl has to go through many different life lessons, some of them tragic, before discovering who she was born to be and who she is.
It sounds simple, but it is a fairytale for adults. I want women to see themselves in the tale and the love of God as well.
Anyway, silly as it sounds, it’s my idea.
Wind Firedancing
Hi,
I attend a conference a few weekends ago and was thoroughly encouraged by the Memoir Writing class by Mary. It was just what I needed to push me over the hump of doubt. Thank you, Mary for your courage and honesty.
I am currently working on a memoir. Sharing my story will hopefully free others from their family baggage. We are more than the family we were born into….God makes goodness from evil….He shines light into the darkness…. that is my story.
So glad you enjoyed the class!
Emily- I came here to say that I got my book today!! Your book. So thank you first of all, for walking this road.
If I were to right, it would be about being thankful in the journey God has you on. That is what I already write about but I dream of sharing it with others.
I want to write children’s books — picture books. Good ones.
There a couple of things: I would love to write a series of books for girls living out loud for God in jr. high or high school. OR a book for college aged girls with an emphasis on allowing grace to become their motivation for serving and ministering for the Lord. Maybe both? Right now I just want to discipline myself in writing for my blog. I feel like if I can do this then I can think about a book as a next step.
Thank you for this give away- and always your words of encouragement. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. I love your blog!!! (and book so far, I need to finish it quickly before the end of Oct.)
Oh Emily,
it cracks me up that ‘magical fiction’ was the first thing on your list when you said, don’t listen to the voice of reason. I have a good half hour to myself and what do I find myself doing? Reading blogs and commenting to win books (WHICH I REALLY REALLY WANT TO TO WIN) instead of writing. Ha!
Thanks for this post!
I would write about courage…
I’m amazed at you awesome people! May God invigorate each of your stories and words! If I could jump up and down and holler a cheer, I would!
I know, right? I feel the same way. This comment box today is thrilling to me!
These folks need to hang out together for a super fun party!
Your question made me cry! Anything in the whole wide world?!? (perhaps that means I should write, yes?)
I’d write about my (ongoing) adoption experience, about its ups and downs and how God has met me at every step.
I would love love LOVE to write a cookbook! I’ve been dreaming about it actually.
I would write about a few things. One the invisible baggage we all seem to carry with us, two about listening to your husband, even when he says no, and lastly I would write about my time growing up in a small town, about the God filled church on a gravel road that I grew up in and the people who made a difference in this girls life. I’m getting ready to start blogging for 31 days in the hopes of starting this writing journey! Love your blog….just got your book today! Yeah!
I am three thousand words short of the first draft of my first book. I plan to finish it by the end of September. It is about fat loss, I myself am on the way to losing nine stone, and I have kept it off. My next book will be fiction, possibly a children’s story about a spotty dog. Have a great day. Nics
I would write a cookbook with stories about food, faith, and my family.
Yum.
If I could write about anything I would write a book to women that encourages them right where they are. I have had to live through some difficult circumstances from an alcoholic father, to an abortion at 16, a rocky marriage, and an adoption of two girls that has not turned out anything like I imagined. My book would be for any woman struggling to deal when their expectations and their reality collides. In that collision we can become bitter or fall deeper into God’s beautiful grace. He makes all things new and He redeems everything we just need to figure out where He is working and go with Him there.
A travel memoir, a book about how mothers lean in their faith when walking through grief, fiction on the same subject.
Two things: a novel (I have two 3/4 finished WIPs and am longing to finish them both) and a column on home decor.
Thanks for hosting this wonderful giveaway, Emily, and thank you Mary for sharing your insights.
I have wanted to write a book for several years now. I would love to write a book about How to have a Godly marriage or about How to raise yor children to be Christ like. Then there is the doubt it will ever happen. I keep telling myself if it is Gods will it will happen. May God bless you in all you do. With love, Shawnia. Phil.4:13
I really hope to have my work published one day! I’d like to write a novel based on the story of David. I’d like to write a book about how to fight depression with the armor of God. I’d like to publish a book of short stories and a book of poems. For now I just have my notebook and my blog, but with all of my heart I hope my writing reaches more and more people as I continue to work at it.
I would write about the wisdom my dad has shared with myself and our family over the years. There’s much emotion tied up in that, yet I’d love to make it practical while sharing my heart and his wisdom.
I want to write a nonfiction book about God’s supernatural peace – that it is so real and so attainable. I know because I’ve experienced it, and I want everyone else to experience it too!
Thank you, Emily, for your authenticity, too! You and Mary make the Christian writing world a true community!
Brenda
First of all, thank you for the prayer in the email you sent me to announce this giveaway. My writings would be Christian fiction based on personal experiences. There are plenty stories difficult in nature and of hard times, that God’s intervention answered through miracles and Holy help. I have started writing the story of one of my adopted children who was rebellious and hard to handle while she gave birth to three babies before she was 19; was involved in drugs, was pimped and lost. It is my desire to show how God works in our lives and gives us strength to make it through.
Thank you for asking the question and for the opportunity to win this wonderful book.
Friend in Christ,
Barb Shelton
Arlington, TX
I have been writing a book about the power of God. All of us have it , most never tap into that power. It is a key to living victoriously. I need to get your book. I am doing the Bible study A Confident Heart right now.
God bless.Lorie
I’m not planning to write a book, but if I was going to, I would write people’s everyday lives, those things that get overlooked as normal and common and not worth writing about. I’d write about soccer practice and grocery shopping and lost library books and how God shows up in those moments of time that seem so mundane that we look right past them. Everyone has a story and each one is worth telling.
…how to drink the cup we are given, even if it is bitter. How sometimes we are asked to put the greatest things on the sacrificial altar. Sometimes we get to keep them, but other He asks for us to live without them.
Sometimes I feel like everyone wants to write a book…. and that’s so depressing to me. SO discouraging. This post was air. Breath. In slowly, invigorating, and out, the deep exhale of peace. If I could write a book, I’d write about my grandma. She lived the most amazing life, it seems it has to be fiction, but it is real. She is real. I’d write about my heartache, and God’s faithfulness despite abuse and neglect and divorce. I’d write about the bible, bringing it alive to woman. I’d write on abuse and Christianity and cultures and what it is like heading to South Africa as a young single woman and starting a school in the middle of nowhere… I’d write about so many things I can’t narrow it down!
My dream would be to write christian fiction for teens. Be it girls or boys, I want to write about the different difficulties and struggles that each of us have to go through and I want to write for them so that they can have an understanding that they are not alone, and God is always there.
I’m not really sure what I’d write about…but I’m told that you should write what you know.
I’m pretty sure that once I get going (and I will), my writing will take the form of fiction and will be partially autobiographical. But it’s hard to write *honestly* about family and difficulties and pain resulting, when family is still here in the present and so precious. Putting pen to paper about the joy and good family times might be easy, but then there is the pain.
Anyway, I would be honored to win the book by Mary DeMuth. A friend recently recommended her writing to me! Otherwise, maybe this is just a little nudge by God to have me buy the book and start writing. I’ll take that as a *yes*!
I’m thinking about write a book. Is something I want to do, like a way to say something about God’s plan for us.
That’s all.
Juliana
My dream book would be part memoir, part Biblical life application about having faith when hope is scarce.
Although I have a variety of fiction projects started and never finished, and I’m focused on organizing my thoughts for a bible study/journaling method thing, my dream is to write poetry.
Emily, thanks for your post today. I had a tearful day and your words about how the success of another writer somehow feels like it diminishes yours was like holding a flashlight on why I felt emotional. Carefully crafted honest words like a soothing balm to this heart. Thanks for your words and for the resource!
I would write the story God had laid on my heart…. My experience with unexpected blessings
I started writing a book a few years ago… it is just started, nothing more. But there is a longing in my heart to write some fiction mixed with real life experience. Included in that would be what I see as a necessary element of need in the church today. That need would be more genuine kindness and less criticism of one another. I have written one page articles that have made people cry and they asked for copies. Also sent in an article to a newspaper once to see if they deemed it publishable and they loved it.
I struggle with doubt and am not self assured at all but I know deep down, I have something worthy to say.
I know I could definitely benefit form Mary’s book as I have no blogging experience and very little knowledge on how to go about getting started.
I would write a book of short stories, retakes on Bible story favorites.
I would write stories about love & lives, of God, of people. Stories that inspire, stories that bless people.
I would love to write about stewardship&advocacy, things I firmly believe God calls us to do-be it for throw-away pets, stopping dog-fighting, supporting spay/neuter, becoming a “no-kill nation”. These are His creatures and are treated like used paper plates. And they are filling the landfills, too. There are so many resources and people dont seek them out, much less use them. And another passion is elder-advocacy, and that would take a page…let’s just say a social worker who helped me keep the folks at home as long as possible was in a horrible accident,and due to confidentiality issues I didnt know what happened and she couldnt get in touch with me. After her hospital discharge&return to work she did call, and as she floated in&out of consciousness early on,all she could think of was how I advocated for Mom&Dad,and how she wanted me to do that for her while unable to fend for herself. I would have loved to repay her that way for all her support. It broke my heart that she felt so alone. -s-
I would write about my life in Alaska.
Wow, so neat. I love hearing about everyone’s passions and book ideas. I would love to share (in book form) about God’s love and mercy in my life and how he shows up in unlikely ways and uses all parts of our stories- beauty and pain, broken and whole, loss and life. Thanks for this giveaway. I’m writing this book down…a must read:).
I tip-toed into the writing waters by starting a blog this year (huge emphasis on tip-toed). If I could write anything, I’d love to have my own newspaper column or perhaps a book exploring doubt in the life of a Jesus follower.
I am writing a book about ‘Hope’. Something every human being at one time in their life will pursue; some with great urgency, others through agonizing struggles. I, myself feel blessed to have endured many trials with Jesus by my side. it is through these dark valleys I found the light of Jesus’ healing touch. I am using my time to pen experiences that have molded my life into a tool and testimony that others will be convinced Jesus loves them, He cared for the, He died for them and will comfort them in every restless storm they encounter. It is truly through Jesus I am alive today to share with others what he so graciously did for me, and will do for them.
I think if I could write about anything, I’d write about faith. The posts I write about faith are some of the favorites of all the ones I’ve written.
So many of the comments resonate within my heart. I started writing creatively this spring. I went back to college and was comfortable writing papers – no personal risk there! I finally started to feel I was able to express myself. I think for me personally I had to come to a point where I was not such a people-pleaser. I was afraid to write honestly ~ what if people did not like what I had to say? Living through a rough few years has opened my eyes to the foolishness of my fears and to the time that they were stealing. The e-book sounds great. If I do not win I will be purchasing a copy. Thanks for sharing it!
Hmmm, I’ve already written some reflections on the meaning of motherhood in a blog series called “With Child.” I’d really like to expand it and make it a fuller and richer. Haven’t quite figured out how, though.
I would LOVE to write about my family in the form of children’s books. So many stories in here! So little time to pen them. Would love to have a copy of the book! Thanks for the opportunity!
I feel as though I have so much to share and I just want to be heard. I have a blog about vintage and I love trying to live with a little bit of wisdom from the past. But I also have a personal blog about the trials of adoption and how it takes work. I try to encourage those who do not have the adoption love story, but instead are helping their child cope with a tragic past. There is so much, and I want to express it all!
My dream is to share my personal experience of years of infertility, failed adoptions and how I maintained my faith in God through it, persevered and witness the ultimate victory when we were blessed through the gift of adoption and then a miraculous pregnancy. A story I could of never imagined and an ending that only God could put together.
Years of life that were captured through journaling and a heart who wants to share with others.
-Colleen G.
Colleen, your story sounds amazing! I would love to read it when you write it.
We’ve talked about this before … daughter-in-law/mother-in-law relationships. It’s a burden of mine.
I’d finish writing the book I’ve started about showing people how to respond properly to hurt and rejection as a Christian. Every heart experiences these issues, even without major abuse. They are found in our everyday lives. We need to live free.
Children’s books <:)
Two things: I would write encouragement to parents and I would write my memoir. God is so good through it all. Now, about that fear piece. . . .
I would write a book — memoir style with some really big life lessons God has been teaching me through miscarriage and raising two little boys.
i dream of writing a memoir-type book all about the ways God orchestrated beauty out of the ashes throughout my life.
and oh my word…. i can’t wait to read the words in your book!!!
I’d love to write a book from inside my autistic son’s head – write about the world the way he sees it, feel the frustration, misunderstandings – and receive God’s answers to his questions based on love and truth. Every night he asks me if he’ll be autistic for the rest of his life. Every night I say “yes, it’s likely – but you can still do great things!” If only he could see himself through God’s eyes………….
Cindy — from a middle school librarian (retired!) … Have you read the book titled The Curious Incident of a Dog in the Nighttime?
http://www.amazon.com/Curious-Incident-Night-Time-Today-Show/dp/0385512104
Our nephew has Asperger’s, and after reading this novel I felt that I understood him much more than I ever had. When I read your post about what you’d write, I thought of this book and wanted to recommend it to you. Because of the point of view, by the time I was really into the story, it felt as if I were the one with autism. It is not a “Christian” book, but I believe God used it in my life. (so beware the language if you do decide to try it!)
Vicki
Hi Emily,
I totally related to your words in the first half of this post. Four and a half years ago, when my daughter was three months old, I got a book contract. My first response was euphoria: Oh thank you, God, I get to write a book!!! My next was panic: Oh dear God, I have to write a book!
With four children now, I don’t have nearly as much time as I’d like to write. If I did/when I do, I’d like to return to the young adult novel I’ve been working on off and on for the past eight years. I’d also like to write another non-fiction book (or two).
Mary is one of my role models in this regard, as she’s a successful writer who writes both fiction and non-fiction, despite the warnings of most agents/editors/writing blogs about crossing genres. (You go, girl!)
Thanks for hosting this giveaway.
Warmly,
Kimberlee Conway Ireton
maybe a collection of christian homebirth stories? just my thoughts on all things childbirth and pregnancy—from a spirit filled christian perspective.
Honestly? I want to write things that bring women closer to the heart of God. I want to write blog posts and magazine articles and books that will break lies, stir hope, and lead women to a deeper understanding of the amazing love of God. Sounds all hokey and gooey.
But I mean every word. God has done so much in my life. His love is so tender. So precious. So freeing. And as one who has spent far too much of her life as a punching bag for the enemy, I want others to know about the One who is the lifter of heads. The One who touches the untouchable and loves the seemingly unlovable. I want to be an instrument of hope, because that is what He has restored to me. That and so much more.
Phew. I’m glad I finally got that typed out! I’ve been staring at this blank comment box for a while. Putting your heart out there makes a gal feel a little seasick.
But all of that big ol’ paragraph up above…that is what I really want to write.
I have a hard time talking about my “dreams”, because the word itself intimates something unattainable, but I’ve always had the desire to be a serious writer. The well-written word can touch hearts and change lives, and that would have to be incredibly rewarding. I would love to receive a copy of this book. A little “how to” advice never hurts. I just finished your Grace for the Good Girl, Emily, and it was wonderful and inspiring. Your talent and heart is something you were destined to share. God bless.
My love of Children makes me want to write Christian Children’s books. I was a single Mom with four children for nine years until my second marriage.
I recently graduated from a correspondance school for writing for Children’s Magazines. I have submitted some stories but have no confidence in myself. Bible stories that I grew up with in my Baptist faith, would make excellent stories by using characters and expanding my own ideas.
I had an adult Christian novel, self published, last year but did not know how to go about choosing a good company and I lost money.
I enjoyed the other posts and the blog of Emily Freeman. This would be a good addition to anyone’s library.
You’ve hit the nail on the head with this post, Emily! As an aspiring author (or at least a writer who feels God wants her to be an author), I can attest to the twinge of fear and regret when I hear of another who signed a book deal. Fear and regret that I may never actually succeed … that perhaps that person took my spot. I was too slow at writing or marketing or had a poor book idea. However, then I remind myself that if God is behind it, it will happen … in His timing! With that in mind, I can cheer those who have had the courage to follow their calling and reached the grace point of a published book!
I’ve written two children’s picture books and I don’t know what my next step is. This would help, I’m sure. By the way. this post was beautifully written. have you been inside my heart and brain?
I’d write words that encourage people to keep their focus on Jesus. I’d be able to give relevant examples that explain some key Bible verses.
I’m a new blogger and I write about food, rhythm and memory, so a cookbook seems logical. But what I really want to say to the world is that “you are enough.” I would write about my own journey of disatisfaction in self, jobs, food, money, relationships, about knowing what ‘enough’ is, and about what it means to be truly, deeply satisfied in Christ.
I don’t have a blog…I don’t have time, or seem to not anyway. Working two jobs will do that to you. I’ve been writing on and off for 10 years and have yet to write a novel that’s worth reading. I have about 15 stories in my head, with 5 on the way and have only finished writing the first draft of my first idea…from 10 years ago. If I could write anything in the whole wide world, it would have to be the stories God has imprinted on my soul. Stories of passion and of power; stories of tragedy, of mystery and sadness; stories that tell the truth and the journey; and stories that speak from the heart of everyone who longs for something more.
…sounds nice…
persevering through marriage and discovering how the marriage process can be a spiritually refining process. Marriage seems to bring out hidden places of fear and doubt that we didn’t know we have. It can be a beautiful journey toward rediscovering how complete we are in the Lord, not in our spouses. And when we discover this, and truly believe it, and live it – well marriage becomes what God intended it to be. It really is a a one-flesh united in the heavenly realms mysteriously beautiful thing.
If I could write anything in the whole wide world (with the assumption that I’d also have fiction-writing-super-powers), I’d write a novel with the narrative depth of Wallace Stegner and the universal appeal of The Help and the redemptive hope that shows up like a slow burn throughout the works of Wendell Berry. Also, Oprah would come back on television just to promote it, and they’d make a movie about it, and Florence + the Machines would write a song just to go with the movie.
But, seeing as I don’t have fiction-writing-super-powers or even barely-mediocre-powers, I think I’ll probably continue writing short articles for magazines, try my hand at a short story or two, and stay open to wherever God leads.
I’m probably too late, but I’ll add my two cents anyway.
If I could write anything it would be women’s fiction. My whole life I have enjoyed books. Books have been an important part of my life and I want to do that for others. But right now all I have is rough ideas.
Goodness, this is a tough question! I’d write about living in the overflow of Christ in me or perhaps a memoir of sorts on life lessons I learned from my family.
I love this post! And I would love to read Mary’s ebook. Most likely my book would be about embracing all of life with chronicles of homeschooling our seven, gardening, & homemade goodness while learning to rest in God’s goodness & grace.
i might be too late for the giveaway, but i have always wanted to write a book. WHAT i’ve wanted to write about has changed over the years, but i think more than anything i’d like to write a book for women on disappointment. i think that has been the overarching theme of my life for the past few years, the thing God is teaching me the most about, and i only know how to write what i know. i’d love the book – thanks for the giveaway!!
a book of adoption essays….
..and I would love to read it!
I’d write a devotional for moms like me
I’d love to write stories about my relatives! There are some characters in my family, and there are fascinating stories back in the family lore. I’ve also had some neighbors I’d like to write about–also characters!
But since there are always difficulties with writing about your family and friends…I’d like to write fictional novels someday, and use them as ideas for characters. I’d like to tell their stories from the inside out, with a healthy dose of my imagination to fill in their interior worlds.
I’m still waiting for the right season, the right timing, for beginning my first novel. It’s truly not procrastination–I could have jumped into this years ago if it weren’t for God making it so darned clear He had other things in mind for me to do first. (Like have and raise six kids.) But with my youngest now school age…I think my time is getting closer.
~Jeanne
When I got married I lacked complete and total intuition about cooking/baking. It’s been almost four years of the kitchen and I doing battle and we are becoming friends through all the messes, thwarts, and increasing successes. I would love to write a combination memoir/cookbook to encourage women who feel like they will never be able to cook well. My goal is to be a fantastic cook by the time I’m 40. I still have 15 years of practice left…good things take time…so does delicious food.
oh how I would love this book. If i could write anything it would be a book about the freeing beauty of simplicity in motherhood.
I have been a long time real estate educator and never thought I would say this until today…I want to write a book. There I said it…now to do it!
My dream is to write a book about the journey of our family during the last year of life of my brother’s 26-year-old wife, to market it to those who don’t know God, and for God to use me to make her death beautiful by bringing thousands to Him through her life and death. Now how’s that for something that could only come about through God’s power!!
I would and do write about anything and everything…to me that could be a book. Who knows what the title would be? I do think that I have something to say, although it might not be one coherent book. As with my art, I often start a project and somewhere down the line, I discover that one has become two. So I go back and wrap up the first project and have the little seedling of a second project to go back to when the first one is done.
I’m still figuring out who I am and what I love and why…maybe that is all that this writing is and all that the book would need to be.
I don’t think I’ve ever really let myself dream quite far enough to think about what kind of book I’d like to write, but writing is what I love to do. And for now, writing about the story of God pursuing His people has been my joy.
My dream book to write would be about how God’s love brought me through the dark valley after my son died by suicide.
Mary’s book sounds really good and so does Grace for the Good Girl!
This IS a nice place to rest.
a super fiction novel. the kind you can’t put down!
~and one where the heroine wouldn’t miss the deadline for the giveaway.
emily~ heard this song after reading this post earlier.
it reminded me of the message here.
thought you’d enjoy it. http://youtu.be/UBaB8Bl_1-Q
I’d love to finish my novel. It’s about a girl who must make a choice between two that will engrain her life in a path forever.
Love reading your blog!