![\"Handy](\"https:\/\/www.rhondaparrish.com\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/image.png\")
<\/p>\n[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
…maybe it’s not fair to title this post ‘WiR Remix’ when I haven’t done a non-WiR version, but I liked how it sounded in my head LOL<\/p>\n
WiR stands for Writer in Residence. This year I have been lucky enough to fulfill that role for the Edmonton Public Library which has been an adventure and a half \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n
From the start I had compiled a document which I called my ‘Handy Dandy, Ever-Changing, Helpful Links’ document. I’ve been adding things to it as they became relevant to the clients I was meeting with and will continue to do so throughout the year so this probably isn’t its final form… but I think it’s likely close to it.<\/p>\n
I give a copy of this to everyone I meet with one-on-one and I thought, well, actually, it might be useful to people I don’t meet with too. So I’m happy to share the current iteration of my Handy Dandy, Ever-Changing, Helpful Links’ document.<\/p>\n
Many of these links are relevant mostly to Canadians, Albertans or Edmontonians but not all of them. I hope it’s helpful to someone.<\/p>\n
Also, if you see an obvious absence and know a way to fill it please let me know \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n
~*~<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Helpful Links” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text admin_label=”Safety” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Safety<\/strong><\/p>\n Writer Beware \u2013 https:\/\/writerbeware.blog\/<\/a><\/p>\n If something seems too good to be true it probably is. And even some things that seem to be on the up and up may be predatory. Writer Beware is a very good resource to help you avoid being scammed or taken advantage of.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Mechanics” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Mechanics<\/strong><\/p>\n Shunn Manuscript Format Guide \u2013 https:\/\/www.shunn.net\/format\/<\/a><\/p>\n Shunn manuscript format is what is generally considered the industry standard way of formatting. I recommend visiting this page in DuckDuckGo or some other, similar, browser that blocks tracking and ads. When I visited this in Chrome it had an offensive number of ads on.<\/p>\n Citation Help \u2013 https:\/\/pitt.libguides.com\/citationhelp<\/a><\/p>\n Screenplay Formatting \u2013 https:\/\/www.studiobinder.com\/blog\/brilliant-script-screenplay-format\/<\/a><\/p>\n They would definitely like to upsell you to buy their screenplay formatting software and I don\u2019t know anything about how good or worth your money that is, but I really loved how they break down how to format a screenplay on this free page here.<\/p>\n How Many Words Are In a Novel \u2013 Word Count by Genre & More \u2013 https:\/\/kindlepreneur.com\/how-many-words-in-a-novel\/<\/a><\/p>\n The Zombie Test (for passive writing) \u2013 https:\/\/tangledprosewritingthroughit.blogspot.com\/2025\/03\/the-by-zombies-test-how-to-spot-and-fix.html<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Networking” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Networking <\/strong><\/p>\n Networking can sound intimidating but it doesn\u2019t have to be \u2013 it just means meeting other people who work in your field \u2013 in this case, publishing.<\/p>\n Many people ask me about where to find or how to start a writing group. I have begun a pilot project where I take six of those people and work through the exercises in the Steering the Craft<\/em> book. Once we reach the end of the book I will step away from the group and leave them to figure out if they want to keep meeting as a critique group and how that works out.<\/p>\n If you would like to participate in the next such group please just drop me a line and let me know, I will add you to the list.<\/p>\n It is important to note that group will not begin to meet until January at which point I will no longer be the Writer in Residence (there will still be no charge for this, however).<\/p>\n Third Thursdays \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/events?q=third%20thursday<\/a><\/p>\n The third Thursday of every month, I am hosting a very casual in-person social event at the Stanley A. Milner library.<\/p>\n Virtual Write Ins \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/events?q=Virtual%20write%20in<\/a><\/p>\n Every other Saturday over Zoom, these are less social events and more a good way to block off a window of time for just writing, but there is a small social component as well.<\/p>\n Find Your Writing Team \u2013 https:\/\/www.epl.ca\/blogs\/post\/find-your-writing-team\/<\/a><\/p>\n Short blog post by yours truly with some helpful links in it for starting to build your writing team.<\/p>\n Critique Groups \u2013 https:\/\/writersguild.ca\/resources\/critiquing-groups\/<\/a><\/p>\n This is a list of groups as posted on the Writers\u2019 Guild of Alberta website. Often critique groups also form out of writing workshops, social media, on Discord or anywhere that writers gather.<\/p>\n Edmonton Literary Ninjas \u2013 https:\/\/discord.gg\/pT53GMF<\/a><\/p>\n Formerly the Edmonton NaNoWriMo group, this group meets mostly online on Discord. Among other things they have regularly scheduled events and a channel for critique exchanges.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Finding Publishers” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Finding a Publisher<\/strong><\/p>\n One of the best places to find publishers to submit to is the library. Find a bunch of books that are similar to yours, open them up and see who published them. Then, armed with that list, hit up your favourite internet search engine to look up the publishers and seek their submission guidelines.<\/em><\/p>\n In addition, the following resources might be helpful:<\/p>\n The Grinder \u2013 https:\/\/thegrinder.diabolicalplots.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n Probably most useful for short fiction and poems, but I also use their submission tracking system rather than maintaining a spreadsheet of my own.<\/p>\n Manuscript WishList \u2013 https:\/\/www.manuscriptwishlist.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Querying” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Querying (Finding an Agent)<\/strong><\/p>\n A Beginner\u2019s Guide to Researching Agents \u2013 https:\/\/www.ericsmithrocks.com\/blog\/2020\/6\/23\/a-beginners-guide-to-researching-agents<\/a><\/p>\n Some of Eric\u2019s suggestions are going to get their own entries right below this, but his list is pretty comprehensive and detailed. Well worth a peek if you\u2019re just getting started at this.<\/p>\n Query Shark \u2013 https:\/\/queryshark.blogspot.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n Query Shark critiques query letters but you do not need to submit your own query letter to find this website useful. In much the same way that critiquing other people\u2019s work can help teach you about writing, reading critiques of other people\u2019s query letters can help teach you how to write a good query letter.<\/p>\n Query Tracker \u2013 https:\/\/querytracker.net\/<\/a><\/p>\n Find agents who will be a good match for your book and track your submissions all in one place. As with any database, it is important to use this as a jumping off point \u2013 put the agent\u2019s names into your favourite search engine, go to their website to make sure the guidelines on Query Tracker are up to date, check out the agent\u2019s social media to make sure they haven\u2019t posted anything reprehensible, that sort of thing.<\/p>\n The Complete Guide to Query Letters \u2013 https:\/\/janefriedman.com\/query-letters\/<\/a><\/p>\n Jane Friedman knows what she is talking about. While you are at her website learning about query letters, also take a look around at some of the other articles and resources there. You won\u2019t be sorry you did.<\/p>\n How to Write a Synopsis \u2013 https:\/\/jerichowriters.com\/how-to-write-a-novel-synopsis-with-an-example\/<\/a><\/p>\n Synopsis Example \u2013 https:\/\/www.queryletter.com\/post\/synopsis-example-tips<\/a><\/p>\n Manuscript WishList \u2013 https:\/\/www.manuscriptwishlist.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Writing for Children” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Writing for Children<\/strong><\/p>\n Formatting picture book submissions \u2013<\/p>\n https:\/\/blog.reedsy.com\/guide\/how-to-publish-a-childrens-book\/childrens-book-manuscript\/<\/a><\/p>\n https:\/\/www.book-editing.com\/format-picture-book-manuscript-publishers\/<\/a><\/p>\n These are primarily formatted in exactly the same way that other manuscripts are (standard format), with the exception of illustration notations. Here are two helpful links in regard to that:<\/p>\n What Makes a Picture Book Work \u2013 https:\/\/authorsguild.org\/resource\/what-makes-a-picture-book-work-with-vicky-weber\/<\/a><\/p>\n This is a really informative presentation about picture books \u2013 what makes them work, what doesn\u2019t \u2013 from someone who is actually actively \u2018in the trenches\u2019 and knows what she is talking about as both an agent and a picture book author.<\/p>\n The Society of Children\u2019s Book Writers and Illustrators \u2013 https:\/\/www.scbwi.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n SCBWI offers information, connection, grants, podcasts and more. Many things require a paid membership to access, but it is still worth a look.<\/p>\n Canadian Society of Children\u2019s Authors, Illustrators and Performers \u2013 https:\/\/www.canscaip.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n CANSCAIP hosts conferences, competitions, blue pencil sessions, and has a membership level that is open to authors who have not yet been published.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Free Money” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Free Money for Published Authors<\/strong><\/p>\n There are ways to make money from your books that have nothing to do with selling them. Here are a couple:<\/em><\/p>\n Access Copyright \u2013 https:\/\/www.accesscopyright.ca\/<\/a><\/p>\n Access Copyright will pay you for any work you have that is copywritten and available in physical print. That may mean full books, or it may be that you sold one story to a print anthology. Both count. Go to the website to get all the details and register for free.<\/p>\n Public Lending Right Program \u2013 https:\/\/publiclendingright.ca<\/a><\/p>\n Here in Canada we are very lucky in that we can get paid just for having our books in libraries. The PLR program is a little bit more restrictive about what qualifies for payment, but it is still worth a look.<\/p>\n Capital City Press Collection \u2013 https:\/\/www.epl.ca\/capital-city-press\/collection\/<\/a><\/p>\n The EPL is committed to buying books by local authors for the library. These books are housed in a special collection just outside the doors of my office at the Stanley A. Milner Library downtown and also throughout the EPL system. Your book could be eligible for inclusion, check out the link above to find out and apply. I just applied for a new one of my books to be included and it took me a total of about three minutes.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Funding” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Funding and Money <\/strong><\/p>\n The above section was specifically for authors who are already published, this section is for everyone, published or otherwise. I could have put these links in several sections (not just the money one) because each website has lots of resources and information that goes above and beyond applying for grants.<\/em><\/p>\n Edmonton Arts Council \u2013 https:\/\/www.edmontonarts.ca\/calls-funding\/funding<\/a><\/p>\n Alberta Foundation for the Arts \u2013 https:\/\/www.affta.ab.ca\/funding\/find-funding<\/a><\/p>\n Canada Council \u2013 https:\/\/canadacouncil.ca\/funding\/grants\/explore-and-create<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Making It Fun” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Making it Fun<\/strong><\/p>\n 4TheWords \u2013 https:\/\/app.4thewords.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n Slay monsters by writing a minimum number of words within a time limit. Complete quests. Dress up a little avatar of yourself. It\u2019s a lot of fun. I have a paid account with them, but there is a free account as well.<\/p>\n Book Binding \u2013 https:\/\/www.epl.ca\/makerspace\/bookbinding\/<\/a><\/p>\n EPL has book binding machines that they will let you use \ud83d\ude42 I know, historically, it was nearly impossible to get into the classes required before you can bind a book but they are changing that up too. They are decreasing the number of required classes from four down to one, and once you\u2019ve learned how to do it, you can come in and make books during their regular book binding hours or during their fab lab hours which opens up options.<\/p>\n To be clear, this isn\u2019t a great option for any sort of mass production of your book, but it might make for a fun way to print up a copy to edit, or to give to friends. I am going to use it to make a special unique copy of my book to use as a reward on Kickstarter.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Generally Useful” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Generally Helpful<\/strong> (aka: I dunno how to classify)<\/p>\n LitFest \u2013 https:\/\/litfestalberta.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n A writer\u2019s festival dedicated to non-fiction<\/p>\n Compelling Research Presentations (also applies to other kinds of presentations) \u2013 https:\/\/youtu.be\/dRXSWUs7idg?si=JGBUpr3NAZtvHqNd<\/a> (courtesy of Megan Skrip<\/a>)<\/p>\n Edmonton Poetry Festival \u2013 https:\/\/edmontonpoetryfestival.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n Stroll of Poets \u2013 https:\/\/www.strollofpoets.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n Alexandra Writers\u2019 Centre \u2013 https:\/\/www.alexandrawriters.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n Based out of Calgary the Alexandra Writers\u2019 Centre offers tons of different classes, workshops, events and write-ins, online and in-person. They also have a Writer in Residence program and offer personalized feedback through their Author Support Service. Some of these things have charges associated with them and some are free. Make sure to be aware which are which.<\/p>\n Metro Continuing Education \u2013 https:\/\/www.ed2go.com\/metro\/SearchResults.aspx?Sort=Relevance&MaxResultCount=10&CategoryID=1432<\/a><\/p>\n That link ought to take you directly to all the writing and editing courses Metro currently has on offer. Look up the instructors and read the details of each course carefully to be sure it\u2019s what you\u2019re looking for before you register.<\/p>\n Athabasca University \u2013 https:\/\/www.athabascau.ca\/<\/a><\/p>\n University of Alberta Faculty of Extension \u2013 https:\/\/www.ualberta.ca\/en\/continuing-education\/index.html<\/a><\/p>\n Writers\u2019 Guild of Alberta \u2013 https:\/\/writersguild.ca\/<\/a><\/p>\n The Writers\u2019 Guild offers a mentorship program, a manuscript reading service and several other helpful resources.<\/p>\n Removing Filter Words \u2013 https:\/\/rmfw.org\/filter-out-those-filter-words-in-your-writing\/<\/a><\/p>\n I frequently find myself trying to help people identify and remove filtering words from their work. This is a good article about what they are, why you don\u2019t want them and how to eliminate them.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HR” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Craft Books” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Craft Books I\u2019ve Enjoyed<\/strong><\/p>\n How To Write Best-Selling Fiction<\/em> by James Scott Bell \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/search?query=how%20to%20write%20best-selling%20fiction&searchType=smart<\/a><\/p>\n This book gets the distinction of being listed first solely because it\u2019s available not only as an audiobook or a DVD but also because each of the chapters is available as a streaming video (because it\u2019s more of a course than a book) which makes them extremely handy for when I want to share something specific with a writer I am working with. That also makes them extremely handy for you if you want to learn about one specific thing.<\/p>\n On Writing<\/em> by Stephen King \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/record\/S5C2524102<\/a><\/p>\n I re-read this book every few years. It\u2019s part memoir and part master class. Stephen and I disagree about some things (I\u2019m sure he\u2019d be positively devastated<\/em> to hear that) but I find his dedication and passion inspiring.<\/p>\n Steering the Craft<\/em> by Ursula K Le Guin \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/record\/S5C1517319<\/a><\/p>\n Not only does this book include lessons but it also comes with writing exercises to go with them.<\/p>\n Bird by Bird<\/em> by Annie Lamott \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/record\/S5C248191<\/a><\/p>\n Slow Productivity<\/em> by Cal Newport \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/record\/S5C2591920<\/a><\/p>\n Less about writing and more about productivity and avoiding burn out \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" …maybe it’s not fair to title this post ‘WiR Remix’ when I haven’t done a non-WiR version, but I liked how it sounded in my head LOL WiR stands for Writer in Residence. This year I have been lucky enough to fulfill that role for the Edmonton Public Library which has been an adventure and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" ...maybe it's not fair to title this post 'WiR Remix' when I haven't done a non-WiR version, but I liked how it sounded in my head LOL<\/p> WiR stands for Writer in Residence. This year I have been lucky enough to fulfill that role for the Edmonton Public Library which has been an adventure and a half :)<\/p> From the start I had compiled a document which I called my 'Handy Dandy, Ever-Changing, Helpful Links' document. I've been adding things to it as they became relevant to the clients I was meeting with and will continue to do so throughout the year so this probably isn't its final form... but I think it's likely close to it.<\/p> I give a copy of this to everyone I meet with one-on-one and I thought, well, actually, it might be useful to people I don't meet with too. So I'm happy to share the current iteration of my Handy Dandy, Ever-Changing, Helpful Links' document.<\/p> I hope it's helpful to someone.<\/p> Also, if you see an obvious absence and know a way to fill it please let me know :)<\/p> ~*~<\/p> Helpful Links<\/strong><\/p> Safety<\/strong><\/p> Writer Beware \u2013 https:\/\/writerbeware.blog\/<\/a><\/p> If something seems too good to be true it probably is. And even some things that seem to be on the up and up may be predatory. Writer Beware is a very good resource to help you avoid being scammed or taken advantage of.<\/p> \u00a0<\/p> Mechanics<\/strong><\/p> Shunn Manuscript Format Guide \u2013 https:\/\/www.shunn.net\/format\/<\/a><\/p> Shunn manuscript format is what is generally considered the industry standard way of formatting. I recommend visiting this page in DuckDuckGo or some other, similar, browser that blocks tracking and ads. When I visited this in Chrome it had an offensive number of ads on.<\/p> Citation Help \u2013 https:\/\/pitt.libguides.com\/citationhelp<\/a><\/p> Screenplay Formatting \u2013 https:\/\/www.studiobinder.com\/blog\/brilliant-script-screenplay-format\/<\/a><\/p> They would definitely like to upsell you to buy their screenplay formatting software and I don\u2019t know anything about how good or worth your money that is, but I really loved how they break down how to format a screenplay on this free page here.<\/p> How Many Words Are In a Novel \u2013 Word Count by Genre & More \u2013 https:\/\/kindlepreneur.com\/how-many-words-in-a-novel\/<\/a><\/p> The Zombie Test (for passive writing) \u2013 https:\/\/tangledprosewritingthroughit.blogspot.com\/2025\/03\/the-by-zombies-test-how-to-spot-and-fix.html<\/a><\/p> \u00a0<\/strong><\/p> Networking <\/strong><\/p> Networking can sound intimidating but it doesn\u2019t have to be \u2013 it just means meeting other people who work in your field \u2013 in this case, publishing.<\/p> Many people ask me about where to find or how to start a writing group. I have begun a pilot project where I take six of those people and work through the exercises in the Steering the Craft<\/em> book. Once we reach the end of the book I will step away from the group and leave them to figure out if they want to keep meeting as a critique group and how that works out.<\/p> If you would like to participate in the next such group please just drop me a line and let me know, I will add you to the list.<\/p> It is important to note that group will not begin to meet until January at which point I will no longer be the Writer in Residence (there will still be no charge for this, however).<\/p> \u00a0<\/p> Third Thursdays \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/events?q=third%20thursday<\/a><\/p> The third Thursday of every month, I am hosting a very casual in-person social event at the Stanley A. Milner library.<\/p> Virtual Write Ins \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/events?q=Virtual%20write%20in<\/a><\/p> Every other Saturday over Zoom, these are less social events and more a good way to block off a window of time for just writing, but there is a small social component as well.<\/p> Find Your Writing Team \u2013 https:\/\/www.epl.ca\/blogs\/post\/find-your-writing-team\/<\/a><\/p> Short blog post by yours truly with some helpful links in it for starting to build your writing team.<\/p> Critique Groups \u2013 https:\/\/writersguild.ca\/resources\/critiquing-groups\/<\/a><\/p> This is a list of groups as posted on the Writers\u2019 Guild of Alberta website. Often critique groups also form out of writing workshops, social media, on Discord or anywhere that writers gather.<\/p> Edmonton Literary Ninjas \u2013 https:\/\/discord.gg\/pT53GMF<\/a><\/p> Formerly the Edmonton NaNoWriMo group, this group meets mostly online on Discord. Among other things they have regularly scheduled events and a channel for critique exchanges.<\/p> \u00a0<\/p> Finding a Publisher<\/strong><\/p> One of the best places to find publishers to submit to is the library. Find a bunch of books that are similar to yours, open them up and see who published them. Then, armed with that list, hit up your favourite internet search engine to look up the publishers and seek their submission guidelines.<\/p> In addition, the following resources might be helpful:<\/p> The Grinder \u2013 https:\/\/thegrinder.diabolicalplots.com\/<\/a><\/p> Probably most useful for short fiction and poems, but I also use their submission tracking system rather than maintaining a spreadsheet of my own.<\/p> Writer\u2019s Digest \u2013 https:\/\/epl.bibliocommons.com\/v2\/search?query=writer%27s%20digest&searchType=smart<\/a><\/p> Writer\u2019s Digest is a magazine which is available from the library, so you don\u2019t need to subscribe. They also put out annual \u2018Writer\u2019s Market\u2019 books. Do not trust that the information about publishers that you see in these books is current \u2013 you should always verify it on the publisher\u2019s website \u2013 but it\u2019s a great place to get information about the practicalities about submitting and see a whole list of potential publishers. That makes it a good jumping off point.<\/p> Manuscript WishList \u2013 https:\/\/www.manuscriptwishlist.com\/<\/a><\/p> \u00a0<\/p> Querying (Finding an Agent)<\/strong><\/p> A Beginner\u2019s Guide to Researching Agents \u2013 https:\/\/www.ericsmithrocks.com\/blog\/2020\/6\/23\/a-beginners-guide-to-researching-agents<\/a><\/p> Some of Eric\u2019s suggestions are going to get their own entries right below this, but his list is pretty comprehensive and detailed. Well worth a peek if you\u2019re just getting started at this.<\/p> Query Shark \u2013 https:\/\/queryshark.blogspot.com\/<\/a><\/p> Query Shark critiques query letters but you do not need to submit your own query letter to find this website useful. In much the same way that critiquing other people\u2019s work can help teach you about writing, reading critiques of other people\u2019s query letters can help teach you how to write a good query letter.<\/p> Query Tracker \u2013 https:\/\/querytracker.net\/<\/a><\/p> Find agents who will be a good match for your book and track your submissions all in one place. As with any database, it is important to use this as a jumping off point \u2013 put the agent\u2019s names into your favourite search engine, go to their website to make sure the guidelines on Query Tracker are up to date, check out the agent\u2019s social media to make sure they haven\u2019t posted anything reprehensible, that sort of thing.<\/p> The Complete Guide to Query Letters \u2013 https:\/\/janefriedman.com\/query-letters\/<\/a><\/p> Jane Friedman knows what she is talking about. While you are at her website learning about query letters, also take a look around at some of the other articles and resources there. You won\u2019t be sorry you did.<\/p> How to Write a Synopsis \u2013 https:\/\/jerichowriters.com\/how-to-write-a-novel-synopsis-with-an-example\/<\/a><\/p> Synopsis Example \u2013 https:\/\/www.queryletter.com\/post\/synopsis-example-tips<\/a><\/p> Manuscript WishList \u2013 https:\/\/www.manuscriptwishlist.com\/<\/a><\/p> \u00a0<\/p> Writing for Children<\/strong><\/p> Formatting picture book submissions \u2013<\/p> https:\/\/blog.reedsy.com\/guide\/how-to-publish-a-childrens-book\/childrens-book-manuscript\/<\/a><\/p> https:\/\/www.book-editing.com\/format-picture-book-manuscript-publishers\/<\/a><\/p> These are primarily formatted in exactly the same way that other manuscripts are (standard format), with the exception of illustration notations. Here are two helpful links in regard to that:<\/p> What Makes a Picture Book Work \u2013 https:\/\/authorsguild.org\/resource\/what-makes-a-picture-book-work-with-vicky-weber\/<\/a><\/p> This is a really informative presentation about picture books \u2013 what makes them work, what doesn\u2019t \u2013 from someone who is actually actively \u2018in the trenches\u2019 and knows what she is talking about as both an agent and a picture book author.<\/p> The Society of Children\u2019s Book Writers and Illustrators \u2013 https:\/\/www.scbwi.org\/<\/a><\/p> SCBWI offers information, connection, grants, podcasts and more. Many things require a paid membership to access, but it is still worth a look.<\/p> Canadian Society of Children\u2019s Authors, Illustrators and Performers \u2013 https:\/\/www.canscaip.org\/<\/a><\/p> CANSCAIP hosts conferences, competitions, blue pencil sessions, and has a membership level that is open to authors who have not yet been published.<\/p> \u00a0<\/strong><\/p> Free Money for Published Authors<\/strong><\/p> There are ways to make money from your books that have nothing to do with selling them. Here are a couple:<\/p> Access Copyright \u2013 https:\/\/www.accesscopyright.ca\/<\/a><\/p> Access Copyright will pay you for any work you have that is copywritten and available in physical print. That may mean full books, or it may be that you sold one story to a print anthology. Both count. Go to the website to get all the details and register for free.<\/p> Public Lending Right Program \u2013 https:\/\/publiclendingright.ca<\/a><\/p> Here in Canada we are very lucky in that we can get paid just for having our books in libraries. The PLR program is a little bit more restrictive about what qualifies for payment, but it is still worth a look.<\/p> Capital City Press Collection \u2013 https:\/\/www.epl.ca\/capital-city-press\/collection\/<\/a><\/p> The EPL is committed to buying books by local authors for the library. These books are housed in a special collection just outside the doors of my office at the Stanley A. Milner Library downtown and also throughout the EPL system. Your book could be eligible for inclusion, check out the link above to find out and apply. I just applied for a new one of my books to be included and it took me a total of about three minutes.<\/p> \u00a0<\/strong><\/p> Funding and Money <\/strong><\/p> The above section was specifically for authors who are already published, this section is for everyone, published or otherwise. I could have put these links in several sections \u2013 not just the money one \u2013 so if you check it out for funding take a peek at the rest of the websites too.<\/p> Edmonton Arts Council \u2013 https:\/\/www.edmontonarts.ca\/calls-funding\/funding<\/a><\/p> Alberta Foundation for the Arts \u2013 https:\/\/www.affta.ab.ca\/funding\/find-funding<\/a><\/p> Canada Council \u2013 https:\/\/canadacouncil.ca\/funding\/grants\/explore-and-create<\/a><\/p> \u00a0<\/p> Making it Fun<\/strong><\/p> 4TheWords \u2013 https:\/\/app.4thewords.com\/<\/a><\/p> Slay monsters by writing a minimum number of words within a time limit. Complete quests. Dress up a little avatar of yourself. It\u2019s a lot of fun. I have a paid account with them, but there is a free account as well.<\/p> Book Binding \u2013 https:\/\/www.epl.ca\/makerspace\/bookbinding\/<\/a><\/p> EPL has book binding machines that they will let you use :) I know, historically, it was nearly impossible to get into the classes required before you can bind a book but they are changing that up too. They are decreasing the number of required classes from four down to one, and once you\u2019ve learned how to do it, you can come in and make books during their regular book binding hours or during their fab lab hours which opens up options.<\/p> To be clear, this isn\u2019t a great option for any sort of mass production of your book, but it might make for a fun way to print up a copy to edit, or to give to friends. I am going to use it to make a special unique copy of my book to use as a reward on Kickstarter.<\/p> \u00a0<\/strong><\/p> Generally Helpful<\/strong> (aka: I dunno how to classify)<\/p> LitFest \u2013 https:\/\/litfestalberta.org\/<\/a><\/p> A writer\u2019s festival dedicated to non-fiction<\/p> Compelling Research Presentations (also applies to other kinds of presentations) \u2013 https:\/\/youtu.be\/dRXSWUs7idg?si=JGBUpr3NAZtvHqNd<\/a> (courtesy of Megan Skrip<\/a>)<\/p> Edmonton Poetry Festival \u2013 https:\/\/edmontonpoetryfestival.com\/<\/a><\/p> Stroll of Poets \u2013 https:\/\/www.strollofpoets.com\/<\/a><\/p> Alexandra Writers\u2019 Centre \u2013 https:\/\/www.alexandrawriters.org\/<\/a><\/p> Based out of Calgary the Alexandra Writers\u2019 Centre offers tons of different classes, workshops, events and write-ins, online and in-person. They also have a Writer in Residence program and offer personalized feedback through their Author Support Service. Some of these things have charges associated with them and some are free. Make sure to be aware which are which.<\/p> Metro Continuing Education \u2013 https:\/\/www.ed2go.com\/metro\/SearchResults.aspx?Sort=Relevance&MaxResultCount=10&CategoryID=1432<\/a><\/p> That link ought to take you directly to all the writing and editing courses Metro currently has on offer. Look up the instructors and read the details of each course carefully to be sure it\u2019s what you\u2019re looking for before you register.<\/p> Athabasca University \u2013 https:\/\/www.athabascau.ca\/<\/a><\/p> University of Alberta Faculty of Extension \u2013 https:\/\/www.ualberta.ca\/en\/continuing-education\/index.html<\/a><\/p> Writers\u2019 Guild of Alberta \u2013 https:\/\/writersguild.ca\/<\/a><\/p> The Writers\u2019 Guild offers a mentorship program, a manuscript reading service and several other helpful resources.<\/p> Removing Filter Words \u2013 https:\/\/rmfw.org\/filter-out-those-filter-words-in-your-writing\/<\/a><\/p>
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