L.M. Preston is a YA author with a few published works under her belt and another one, Bandits, set to be released in June 2011. However, writing isn’t the only publishing related work she does. She also considers herself a seasoned writer’s advocate. Not sure what that is? Want to know what inspired her to become one? You’re in luck because she answers all these questions and more on YABookShelf.com today.
Now, without further ado, here is her guest post:
I can’t help myself, I’m an insatiable cheerleader. As a writer, one takes many hits to their self-esteem, art, and sometimes ego. But for some reason we are gluttons for punishment. Becoming a writer’s advocate, aka: cheerleader, supporter, encourager and defender happened strictly by accident. However, if you are a writer, or someone who seeks to become one – find your own cheerleader. Trust me, it will be the greatest lift you need in this difficult journey from creating a draft to chipping away at your masterpiece.
How Did It All Start?
When I first started writing I sought out online communities to support me. I had finished a full manuscript that was … in bad shape I must say, but I thought I was ready for the next step. I started submitting some samples of my work and let me tell you – if I didn’t have tough skin, I would have folded. People on some forums can be sooooooo mean, unsupportive and will rip you (yes, you personally), and your work to shreds. I didn’t give up though; I know my story had great potential. Luckily, I stumbled on a place called Absolute Write. Although, there were some meanies there too, but there were many more supportive writers who encouraged me, gave positive and useful feedback on my work, as well as great advice.
The Light Bulb
Even though Absolute Write was great, I was a YA writer and wanted – no needed – a focus on the type of writing I did. Also, I really desired a more supportive place to hang out. a place where, quite frankly, someone would help me instead of ripping my work to shreds. By chance, I happen to be on Twitter and found this hashtag for yalitchat. Shortly after Georgia McBride took it offline to YA Lit Chat Ning and writers of like minds helped Georgia build a highly supportive and enriching place to hang out.
It was in this environment that I got the thirst to help other writers grow in a supportive environment – some place that wouldn’t tear them down, but would help them create their own masterpiece. I joined the Moderators on the YALit chat site. Thereafter, I got involved in a local writing community, and I became the coordinator for the Editor and Agent recruitment for our conferences. Then I headed up writing internship recruitment, where I was able to be a personal motivator to young writers graduating from college.
Let’s just say – it was the most rewarding, amazing thing I’ve ever done. In doing so, I’ve mentored over five authors, two of which are now published.
How Can You Be An Advocate?
Get involved. Support new writers. Join an organization that has the same purpose and start one of the most rewarding gifts of being a writer – the gift to be able to enlighten and improve another person’s journey, the journey that can make or break a person more deeply than anything else. Being a writer can do that when you get feedback from some beta readers, when your work is rejected over and over by lit agents or publishers. With a mind for blazing your own path, anyone whether a writer or not, can reach the stars with a cheerleader behind them.