We are excited to announce the winners of our second Tune-Up Day prizes!
But, before we do, we must slow down the pacing and increase the tension.
So…
(page turn)
here’s a quick-read crafty tip for you.
(page turn)
It amazes me how each manuscript demands a different approach to writing and revision. I’m working on a huge revision for an acquired…YES! ACQUIRED… YAYYYY… lyrical non-fiction PB manuscript. Here’s a peek behind my revision curtain at the steps I’ve taken so far for this manuscript.
I still have a LONG way to go.
Step One:
I printed the editorial letter and underlined the most salient suggestions. I color-coated my underlining so that I could hone in on: heart, editorial tasks, and research. I wanted to be sure I didn’t lose any of these components.

Sample of Editorial Letter Process
Step Two:
I wrote a to do list of CONCRETE next steps.

Concrete steps to help me organize my process.
Step Three:
I created a visual representation of the ways the focal point of the manuscript fits within the historical and social context of the nonfiction topic.

I created a visual representation:
Historical Context, Social Landscape,
and Focal Point
Step Four:
I created word banks for various aspects of the manuscript from which I can pull as I revise.

Word banks for setting, historical
context, social context,
and for the main character
Step Five:
I mapped out the spreads/different “sections” of the manuscript in thumbnails. Here is the first section.

This particular book will be 48 pages. This is the first of three sections.
Step Six:
I wrote the first “section’s” spreads on sticky notes so that I could move them around to see what might work best. I pasted the sticky notes onto a dry erase board so that I could see the progression of the arc.

Progression of the sections of the manuscript. Broken into spreads.
Jogging back and forth between the computer, pen and paper, and visual representations has helped me ensure that I stay true to the heart of this manuscript. I hope seeing a bit of my process helps you too.
And now for our winners:

Congratulations to all who participated in the Tune-Up Day. Your #ReVISIONweek Tune-Up Day host will reach out to you regarding your prize.
We look forward to our week-long challenge September 14-21st!
Feel. Write. Risk.
Lauren, Joana, Katie, Lynne, Michal, and Shannon