The Constant Art of Being a Writer

The Fiction Writer's Guide to Creative Success

From that first story idea to publication and beyond, being a novelist is an evolving process. The Constant Art of Being a Writer helps you discover the mindset and skills you need to confidently approach each aspect of writing and publishing.

Award-winning novelist and short story writer N.M. Kelby explores core fiction writing techniques like idea generation, outlining, character development, and the use of black comedic moments and magic realism, as well as essential business-related topics like getting an agent, self-promotion, crafting a bestseller, the ins and outs of a successful author tour, and much more.

With lively instruction, innovative writing tips, and original exercises, The Constant Art of Being a Writer is a guide you can count on every step of the way.N.M. Kelby is the author of the recently released Murder at the Bad Girl's Bar and Grill (Shaye Areheart/ Random House), Whale Season (Shaye Areheart/ Random House), Theater of the Stars (Theia/Hyperion), and In the Company of Angels (Theia/Hyperion). Named "Outstanding Southern Artist" by The Southern Arts Federation, her work has been translated into several languages and offered by The Literary Guild, Doubleday Book Club, and Quality Paperback Book Club. Her short stories have appeared in many publications including One Story and Zoetrope. Her story "Jubilation, Florida" was selected for National Public Radio's Selected Shorts, and later recorded by actress Joanne Woodward for the NPR CD Travel Tales, and included in New Stories from the South: Best of 2006 (Algonquin Books). She is working on the film version of Whale Season with actor/singer Dwight Yoakam. She lives in Sarasota, Florida, and her Web site is www.nmkelby.com