Yes, I have signed up for NaNoWriMo again this year and am looking forward to a whole month of writing and creating. Last year I managed around 23,000 words before another book took over and I abandoned my nightly creative free-for-all in favour of “purposeful” writing. Though I didn’t win NaNo, I did finish the book and had it published this spring. So, for me, a win.
This year, I have no books burning to be written, in fact, I don’t even have an idea for a story. I’m not an especially good “pantser,” so I’ll be spending the rest of October looking for characters, a setting, and 50,000-words-worth of conflict. When it comes to plotting, taking a look at the Hero’s Journey is definitely on my to-do list. I wrote a blog about it last year during the run-up to NaNo.
If you’re stuck for a story idea, too, I’ve been posting a series of writing prompts at http://wrightingwords.wordpress.com/writing-starters/ for other NaNo writers and anyone else who needs a creative boost.
What are you doing to get ready for NaNoWriMo? Are you a pantser or are you going to have a detailed plan for your novel before you begin? If you have any tips for success or sites to recommend to others taking on the challenge, please share.
If you sign up for NaNo and are looking for a writing buddy, I’m “wrightwriter” and I’d love the company.
Another brave soul has signed up. As busy as I always am during the month of November I know better than even consider it. I’m in awe of those who do.
Best of luck!
I will be shocked if I produce a winning 50,000 words, but any words right now are better than none. My creative status currently is zero. I’m spending lots of energy on marketing the book, and, as always, marking/editing other people’s writing. November I’ll be carving out some creative time for me. And, with some decent planning, supporting my writing with lots of left over Hallowe’en chocolate!