My Favourite Books on Writing and Creating
I’ve been trying to read more books that teach me about being a better writer and creative. I wanted to keep a list, so I can revisit their insights from time to time, and thought I’d put it here in case it was helpful for your own creative forays. I love the way these books…
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My ridiculously achievable writing habit
Have you ever set an ambitious goal? And then failed? My hand is in the air, waving wildly. That was me last year. My goal was so far beyond reasonable that I’m a little embarrassed to own up. But I will. Because it makes for entertaining reading at the very least! As many of you…
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Check out my book’s lovely cover
This is where I have the pleasure of revealing my book’s beautiful cover design. It is the result of much deliberation and creative brainstorming to envisage what visuals best represent the story, while also appealing to the right audience and catching the eyes of booksellers!
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I just signed a book deal!
It’s true! I have just signed a contract with publishing giant Penguin Random House that will see my debut novel released in mid-2023. This is where you can imagine me jumping around with the abandon of a three-year-old on her birthday. Squealing. Dancing. Hanging off people’s arms. I can’t begin to tell you how excited…
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On symbolism and reading books you don’t like
Do you pick up on symbolism in the books you read? Do they ping at you like little neon lights for the book’s themes, or do they bob past you innocuously, and only subtly and subconsciously exist? Or are you reading this thinking, Whaaaa??? There are themes in books? Haha! There’s no right or wrong…
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Dirt Healing
— a poem by Claire van Ryn for Australia Day. Speak, Dirt! Hold up your story! Dream-tell! Etch your wisdom through the soles of our feet, drawing up through bloodlines.
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I have an agent!
I’m absolutely delighted to share the news that I have just signed with an agent. Fiona Johnson from Beyond Words Literary Agency is representing me and my work to the publishing world.
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What’s the deal with writers’ retreats?
Perhaps you’ve heard me swoon about heading away on a writer’s retreat and wondered what that’s all about. Here’s why it’s a crucial part of my writerly life.
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Creating a book is teamwork
I could fill a room with the people who have helped me complete my book to where it is now. And I’ll fill another room with the people who see it to publication. When I started out on this writing-my-first-novel journey, I had in mind that it would essentially be a solitary exercise. Me and…
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The man with the fluted nose
—A short story by Claire van Ryn. “Happy friendversary!” is the pronouncement when I tap the little blue square with the white ‘F’ on my phone. I stir sugar into my Twinings. Tinkle-tinkle. Delightful sound. Stainless steel on Wedgewood.
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Claire van Ryn 