5 answers
Cam
Student
Virginia Beach, Virginia
1
Question
Asked
428 views
How can I become an author?
I'd really like to create books, but I don't know where to start. And as a 14 year old with no money, It's been hard to find a way to make some cash. I want to find the best way to write and publish books. Can you help me out?
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5 answers
Karina B
Educator
85
Answers
India
Updated
Karina’s Answer
Hi,
One can become an author by self-publishing and for that, Notion Press (https://notionpress.com/) is an option that can be explored.
Hope this helps.
One can become an author by self-publishing and for that, Notion Press (https://notionpress.com/) is an option that can be explored.
Hope this helps.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4698
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Cam,
How to Become an Author as a 14-Year-Old with No Money
Becoming an author at a young age like 14 is an admirable goal, and it’s definitely achievable with dedication and the right approach. Here are some steps you can take to start your journey towards becoming an author even without much money:
1. Develop Your Writing Skills: The first step to becoming an author is honing your writing skills. Practice writing regularly, experiment with different styles and genres, and seek feedback from teachers, peers, or online writing communities. You can also consider taking free online writing courses or workshops to improve your craft.
2. Start Writing: Begin by writing short stories, poems, or even a novel if you have a story idea in mind. Set aside dedicated time each day to write, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Remember, the more you write, the better you’ll become.
3. Utilize Online Platforms: There are several online platforms where you can share your writing for free and gain exposure. Websites like Wattpad, Medium, or even starting a blog can help you showcase your work to a wider audience.
4. Enter Writing Contests: Look for writing contests that are open to young writers like yourself. Participating in contests not only gives you a chance to win prizes but also provides valuable experience and feedback on your writing.
5. Self-Publish Your Work: Self-publishing has become increasingly popular and accessible with platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Smashwords. These platforms allow you to publish your work as e-books at little to no cost.
6. Seek Mentorship: Consider reaching out to established authors or joining writing groups in your community or online. Mentorship can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights into the publishing industry.
7. Explore Scholarships and Grants: There are organizations that offer scholarships or grants specifically for young writers looking to pursue their passion for writing. Research these opportunities and apply for any that align with your goals.
Remember that becoming an author is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and continuous learning. Keep refining your craft, seeking opportunities to grow as a writer, and never give up on your dream of creating books.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Writer’s Digest: A reputable source for writers of all levels offering advice on writing techniques, publishing tips, industry news, and resources for aspiring authors.
The Write Life: An authoritative website providing practical advice on freelance writing, blogging, self-publishing, marketing strategies for writers, and tips on building a successful writing career.
Poets & Writers: A trusted resource for poets and creative writers offering information on literary magazines, writing contests, grants for writers, literary agents directory, and tools for professional development in the field of writing.
These sources were consulted to provide accurate and reliable information on how young aspiring authors can kickstart their writing careers effectively even without significant financial resources.
God Bless You, Richly, JC.
How to Become an Author as a 14-Year-Old with No Money
Becoming an author at a young age like 14 is an admirable goal, and it’s definitely achievable with dedication and the right approach. Here are some steps you can take to start your journey towards becoming an author even without much money:
1. Develop Your Writing Skills: The first step to becoming an author is honing your writing skills. Practice writing regularly, experiment with different styles and genres, and seek feedback from teachers, peers, or online writing communities. You can also consider taking free online writing courses or workshops to improve your craft.
2. Start Writing: Begin by writing short stories, poems, or even a novel if you have a story idea in mind. Set aside dedicated time each day to write, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Remember, the more you write, the better you’ll become.
3. Utilize Online Platforms: There are several online platforms where you can share your writing for free and gain exposure. Websites like Wattpad, Medium, or even starting a blog can help you showcase your work to a wider audience.
4. Enter Writing Contests: Look for writing contests that are open to young writers like yourself. Participating in contests not only gives you a chance to win prizes but also provides valuable experience and feedback on your writing.
5. Self-Publish Your Work: Self-publishing has become increasingly popular and accessible with platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Smashwords. These platforms allow you to publish your work as e-books at little to no cost.
6. Seek Mentorship: Consider reaching out to established authors or joining writing groups in your community or online. Mentorship can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights into the publishing industry.
7. Explore Scholarships and Grants: There are organizations that offer scholarships or grants specifically for young writers looking to pursue their passion for writing. Research these opportunities and apply for any that align with your goals.
Remember that becoming an author is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and continuous learning. Keep refining your craft, seeking opportunities to grow as a writer, and never give up on your dream of creating books.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Writer’s Digest: A reputable source for writers of all levels offering advice on writing techniques, publishing tips, industry news, and resources for aspiring authors.
The Write Life: An authoritative website providing practical advice on freelance writing, blogging, self-publishing, marketing strategies for writers, and tips on building a successful writing career.
Poets & Writers: A trusted resource for poets and creative writers offering information on literary magazines, writing contests, grants for writers, literary agents directory, and tools for professional development in the field of writing.
These sources were consulted to provide accurate and reliable information on how young aspiring authors can kickstart their writing careers effectively even without significant financial resources.
God Bless You, Richly, JC.
Denise A White
Write, Facilitate also a Retired Mathematics Educator
7
Answers
Hugo, Minnesota
Updated
Denise A’s Answer
Write all you can. Write about the stars, a girl, a lizard; write about all you notice. Don’t worry let your mind tell you what to write. And journal, everyday, some of the best books have come out of journals. Look at photos, quotes, and artistic for inspiration. If you can’t find any just writ nonsense for ten minutes.
Next find a class on poetry, mystery,novel, or non-fiction writing and take it. Grow you community.
Denise A recommends the following next steps:
Bill Louis
Security Information Architect
6
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
Bill’s Answer
Cam,
There are many online writing tutorials and sites for people to upload their short stories.
I would suggest that your first step might be to work on your writing skills with online creative writing courses and like minded people in writting groups.
These days desktop publishing makes getting your work out there, do a desktop publishing search.
Keep your creativity flowing and great authors never give up.
Best of luck,
Bill
There are many online writing tutorials and sites for people to upload their short stories.
I would suggest that your first step might be to work on your writing skills with online creative writing courses and like minded people in writting groups.
These days desktop publishing makes getting your work out there, do a desktop publishing search.
Keep your creativity flowing and great authors never give up.
Best of luck,
Bill
T.J. Worthy
Mentor
203
Answers
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Updated
T.J.’s Answer
Hello Cam!
There are free ways to get started with writing books.
Use Google Docs, an another app, or a notebook to write your ideas.
Since you're just starting, write down any idea that comes to mind. You can always flesh it out later.
Also, you should read books! Books can help you understand storytelling, pacing, and formatting words to engage people.
You can get books for free at your local library. Read genres that you enjoy.
Another small tip is you can take notes while reading. Noting what works well in a story is another way to learn writing.
To publish books, you *may* need some money in the future. Many authors have to purchase materials to self-publish. So, as a new author, you may need to promote the book by yourself.
You can publish a book for free with a traditional publisher, but getting that is very competitive and may cost you things outside of money.
See this link to learn more | https://selfpublishing.com/cost-to-publish/
A way to prepare for this is to get a part-time job and save money.
Here are some resources for you to learn more about writing and publishing:
1. Guide: 10 Steps To Writing a Novel or Short Story - https://www.onbookstreet.com/blog/how-to-write-a-book
2. A Pinterest board with over 600 resources & tips! - https://www.pinterest.com/emmallewis/writing-a-book/
Sending you encouragement as you start your journey to authorship :)
There are free ways to get started with writing books.
Use Google Docs, an another app, or a notebook to write your ideas.
Since you're just starting, write down any idea that comes to mind. You can always flesh it out later.
Also, you should read books! Books can help you understand storytelling, pacing, and formatting words to engage people.
You can get books for free at your local library. Read genres that you enjoy.
Another small tip is you can take notes while reading. Noting what works well in a story is another way to learn writing.
To publish books, you *may* need some money in the future. Many authors have to purchase materials to self-publish. So, as a new author, you may need to promote the book by yourself.
You can publish a book for free with a traditional publisher, but getting that is very competitive and may cost you things outside of money.
See this link to learn more | https://selfpublishing.com/cost-to-publish/
A way to prepare for this is to get a part-time job and save money.
Here are some resources for you to learn more about writing and publishing:
1. Guide: 10 Steps To Writing a Novel or Short Story - https://www.onbookstreet.com/blog/how-to-write-a-book
2. A Pinterest board with over 600 resources & tips! - https://www.pinterest.com/emmallewis/writing-a-book/
Sending you encouragement as you start your journey to authorship :)