Author name: Vivian Hartwell

girl reading a children's book on her bed

Why the Scholastic Book Club Matters for Aspiring Authors

Aspiring children’s book authors today have more publishing options than ever—Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, even viral exposure on BookTok. But one of the most influential platforms in the children’s book world has been quietly shaping young readers for over 75 years: the Scholastic Book Club. This program has been a trusted source for parents, teachers, and […]

The Shire

J.R.R. Tolkien Books Every Aspiring Author Should Study

Writing a novel from scratch takes more than creativity. You need structure, vision, and a deep understanding of storytelling. If you’re serious about becoming a published author, especially in fantasy fiction, studying J.R.R. Tolkien books is one of the smartest investments you can make in your craft. Tolkien wasn’t just a professor of language and

writing a query letter to a literary agent

How to Write a Query Letter for a Literary Agent (With Examples & Tips)

Selling your manuscript starts long before your book lands in a bookstore. It starts with a single page: your query letter. In fact, many agents decide whether to read your manuscript based solely on your query. If your pitch doesn’t land, your book never gets a chance. I know that sounds harsh, but it’s the

reader holding up a book

How to Create a Book Imprint for Self-Publishing in 2025

One of the questions I get asked a lot is, “Should I create my own book imprint?” The short answer is yes, especially if you’re in this for the long game. Creating a book imprint for self-publishing isn’t just about making your work look more professional. It also helps you establish a publishing identity that

woman reading a Harry Potter book

Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing: Pros and Cons in 2025

Your manuscript is nearly done, and you’re can’t wait to finally share it with the world. But now you’re facing the big question: should you publish it yourself or try your luck with a traditional publisher? It’s the classic crossroads every author eventually reaches. And in 2025, choosing between self-publishing and traditional publishing is both

characters in a typewriter

Ideal Word Count for Novels, Nonfiction, and Self-Publishing

One of the most common questions writers ask is: How long should my book be? Knowing the standard word and page counts for your book type can save you from a lot of rewriting, rejections, and confused readers. Word count can directly affect how your book is received. If a manuscript is too long or

Father and daughter reading a children's picture book in a makeshift tent in the house

How to Write a Children’s Picture Book? | A Complete Guide

Writing a picture book isn’t like writing a novel, a short story, or even a chapter book. It’s more like writing poetry, designing a stage play, and solving a puzzle all at once. In just a few hundred carefully chosen words, you have to tell a story that’s emotionally engaging, rhythmically satisfying, and visually dynamic.

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