Once upon a time I had the good fortune to learn my craft from the
inimitable award-winning author Richard Peck, a true Best Man if ever
there was one.
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The result?
My stories, no matter the format, now organically end happily ever after.
I gladly pass along Mr. Peck’s keen eye-opening words so your
Beginnings and Endings do what they must:
“On your first page is the last, on your last page the first.”
Stuck on your ending as you finalize your revision? Revisit your
beginning.
Unsure of your beginning? Reread your ending.
And, reread books, especially picture books, to see the truth of Richard
Peck’s advice.
If you’re unfamiliar with Richard Peck, or even if you’re not, take a
moment to read this glorious tribute, then seek his published work.
His contributions to children’s literature are note-worthy.
SCBWI offers his brilliant Master Class on Writing the Novel for
Young Readers in the current Summer Spectacular Bookstore.
And, for pure Show, Don’t Tell, read Matthew Winner’s post on First
Page/Last Page connections. The examples underscore Richard Peck’s
advice.
Thanks to Molly Hogan for hosting Poetry Friday today at
Molly’s August 7 post addressed gratitude.
I remain forever grateful to Richard Peck for all he taught me –
in person and through his books, about writing and Life.
Happy writing!
Esther Hershenhorn
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5 comments:
Love simple advice that's actually genius. Thanks for the tip, the book and the link to the tribute. What an amazing author. Well done.
Thank you, Linda!
I'm so glad you found this post helpful!
And Kudos to you for your interview of your mother! :)
I'll be applying this to all of my stories. Thanks.
When I saw the photo, I knew it would be your post. I always remember these, and other wise words...At least as I remember them...Something like "if you are going to write what you know, make it turn out better." All of this advice informs my stories. Thank you for this lovely reminder!
Great advice I need to be reminded of! I'm going to look at my current picture book manuscript and see if I've done this...and if not, consider how do do it. What a fun assignment!
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