Tips to inspire you to write your first novel

Many of us dream of penning a bestseller, and with November officially classed as National Novel Writing Month, there’s no better time to have a go

National Novel Writing Month or ‘NaNoWriMo’ has been running since 1999, and last November an amazing 431,626 participants took on the challenge of writing 50,000 words. It’s proved a successful endeavour for many, with over 250 writers achieving traditional publication to date.

So, whether you use the motivation of signing up online for the free challenge or prefer to work to your own target, perhaps it’s time to give writing a try.

Why write?

Writing can be great for our emotional health, so even if you don’t fancy tackling a novel, why not try another form of writing, such as a personal journal or a true-life story? ‘There’s a freedom with writing in that you can confess your most intimate thoughts without fear of judgement,’ explains psychologist and author Dr Genevieve von Lob.

‘Writing also stimulates and sparks our creativity and helps us to look at situations in a new light. It can be a wonderful way of tapping into the more intuitive, creative side of ourselves and can help generate new or different ideas or perspectives.’

How to begin?

For those who may feel a little overwhelmed at the thought of writing thousands of words, author and writing coach Jacqui Lofthouse recommends a gentle start to the writing process. ‘Some writers prefer to have the whole plot mapped out from the beginning, but if you’re not one of those people who can visualise the whole book, it’s a good idea to start with small scenes,’ she says. ‘Perhaps you’ve overheard a great conversation on the train, or seen a picture in an art gallery that drew you in. Describe these moments, and you will find more ideas begin to flow. Always carry a notebook to jot them down!’

However, if you are someone who prefers to work from a more concrete plan, Elaine Everest, best-selling author of The Butlins Girls, finds starting small and building in detail a useful way of mapping out a new book. ‘I tend to write a one-page outline showing how my story starts and ends. This is for my use and can be changed as new ideas pop into my head,’ she explains. ‘Next, I expand this into chapters or scenes. After that, I flesh out my characters and undertake any research on settings and historical detail.’

‘Get yourself writing and don’t be afraid. And don’t think you need to get everything perfect the first time’

Is my writing any good?

Even established writers often suffer from self-doubt, so it’s only natural if you feel a little unsure about your first draft. Jacqui Lofthouse believes that, while producing good writing

is the eventual aim, being too hung up on quality from the outset could stifle the creative process. ‘Get yourself writing and don’t be afraid,’ she says. ‘And don’t think you need to get everything perfect the first time around. If we all obsessed about excellence, we’d never write anything!’

‘Once you get to 30 or 40 pages, you can pick it up, have a read and see what’s there,’ she says. ‘What do you like about it? What would you like if you were a reader? Then it’s time to redraft with these answers at the forefront of your mind.’

How do I edit?

Even the best authors need an editor. If you’re lucky enough to secure a publisher, this will often be done in-house. Those who are thinking of selfpublishing may wish to engage an independent editor, or if your book’s just for an audience of family and friends, perhaps ask someone close to you to read and give you advice.

Self-published author Christine Webber agrees, ‘It’s better to get your book independently edited,’ she says. ‘You are never going to be the best editor of your own work, no matter how good a writer you are. You miss things. Everyone does’

What about publication?

When seeking traditional publication, you first need to decide whether to seek representation from a literary agent. ‘There are some excellent traditional publishing houses who accept submissions from authors,’ explains Elaine Everest. ‘However, if you wish to use the services of an agent, look at the website and membership list for the Association of Authors’ Agents. Next, go to each agent’s website and read about the company. If you like what you

‘You are never going to be the best editor of your own work, no matter

how good a writer you are’

have read then go to its submission guidelines and follow them carefully.’

Time to pick up a pen?

So, whether you’ve always wanted to write a novel or have recently decided to have a go at fiction, why not take up the challenge this November?