Thank you for the feedback Sandra

I do agree, Lori, but I’ll add that I don’t recommend always reading with intention.

There’s reading just for the sake of reading, and there’s reading as research, which is what you’re referring to. For example, I write nonfiction but if I wanted to switch to fiction, I would, as you’ve suggested, start taking notes on most novels that I read to find commonalities, structures that I like, and so on. I’d use that to help shape any novel I’d write.

But if there’s always intention behind my reading, it starts to become work. So I’m good with reading for pleasure, too, and along the way, maybe improving my spelling, grammar, and vocabulary simply because of what I see on the page. (Maybe.)

Sandy

I agree that writers need to read. But I think your point about writers getting feedback on *their* writing is even more important. I also think that if you really want to learn from the books you read there needs to be an intention.

I’m writing a memoir right now and I’m reading other memoirs. I’m also taking notes on the authors structure their books. What are the scenes that are common to all the memoirs that I know I’ll need to include? How do authors split their books into chapters and parts? What do they include and what do they leave out?

You can read a lot of stories, but I think you need personal feedback on your writing and reflection and analysis of other people’s writing to truly learn the craft. Do you agree?

Anikka, as long as you’re reading, you’re covered!

As for hashtags and emojis, I suppose it depends what you’re writing and your target audience.

Sandy

I felt this was a great topic as I can say I am 1 of those writers who loves to write but terrible at reading books… but enjoy reading the newspaper or magazines.

I don’t know if this is of the norm as someone who has been writing in Diaries for the last 17yrs and now creating my 1st book ‘memoir’ style.

Question to all:
Do you think it’s a bad idea to include #hashtags or emojis into a book or keep it simple, to the norm with words only?

Thank you in advance.☺️

I hope you’ll come back, Johnson.

Sandy

Butt in chair is a good start, Sharon! Thanks!

Sandy

This doesn’t surprise me, Vicki. How interesting that writing can be therapeutic for you. Why’s that, do you think?

Sandy

Do it and do it daily, is great advice and comes from many successful authors. I am a believer.