Book Description

Section I"Getting Started in the Magazine Market"In the first part of this book, I'll show you how you can start writing for magazines. I'll answer questions, such as: "How can I make my time count?" "How can I use writing to inform, educate, inspire and entertain readers?" "How and where can I find ideas?" "What are some common hindrances to writing?" "How can I use my God-given creativity to generate article ideas?" "Can I use my 'reason to write' as a ministry?" These ideas work for me. They'll work for you, also. Personally, I've published over 4,000 magazine articles and worked with hundreds of editors.Section II"The Magazine Market-Tools of the Trade"In the second section of this book, I'll focus on over 3,500 secular and 1,200 Christian markets that need writers to fill their pages. New markets appear each year and many companies are going to online publications. I will discuss, "Exploring the Christian and secular market, explain common symbols and basic information." "What are the steps to publishing in these markets?" "Do photos make a difference in obtaining a contract?" "Query letters: catching an editor's attention." Let me help you learn the basics of writing for magazines and realize the passion of putting words on paper while getting paid.Section III"How to Identify Your Audience"In the third section of this book, I'll share two critical points for being published. Knowing the audience/reader of each magazine and understanding the focus of each publication makes a difference in receiving a rejection letter or a contract. Learn how to: "Recognize the social, educational, and economic level of the audience." "What information can a writer learn from the articles, advertisements, and photos about the magazine?" "Article titles that sell." And, "Writing tips that bring success." Let me share my love for writing and introduce you to a career that can change your life!Section IV"Knowing the Magazine"Section IV, includes a vital part of successful writing-to-publish. Knowing the magazine for which you write is vital to receiving a contract. With many magazines online, it's easy to research back copies in the archives. Check the table of contents. If a topic has been used in the last several years, the editor will not use it again. However, be creative and suggest a different slant. Some editors say they do not repeat a topic within 10 years; other 6. Check to be sure. Look at the format, photos, sidebars, question and answer articles. Use these as guidelines to write your own article. As an added bonus, I have included enrichment activities you can do at home or with a writing friend. Practice these activities and develop your skills as a writer. The book also has pages to write down your thoughts and ideas. I believe that writing is a gift given by God. He gives us this talent and it's up to us to learn the mechanics of putting words on paper. A Bible verse that has given me hope is Isaiah 40:31: "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."