So a big piece of the writing process/getting published and that is being able to identify comparable titles and work to your own. It shows not only what style your writing is, but the audience it might appeal to. And further, shows you are well read and understand the market.
However, I have the hardest time with this part of the process. I have read, but not as much in recent years and when I do read, I stick to my favorite authors. I need to read more. I need to make that time to do this for not only my own advancement of “wannabe” career but because I truly enjoy reading.
As a kid, I read every book I could get my hands on, almost literally. My mom took us to the public library all the time, but more often during the summer. It was a great, free activity that kept us busy.
One summer, I got my picture in our small town newspaper for completing my reading list, possibly for reading the most books for my age group?? I honestly can’t remember exactly. I do remember that I received a stuff Curious George doll. I loved him.
However, though I have a past of reading, I went back to college in the Fall of 2002 and graduated in Feb 2007. During that period of time, I did zero reading for pleasure as I was a working mom for the first year, stay at home mom for the middle and then a single mom for the last year or so. I had a full plate so when I wasn’t working, taking care of young kids or doing school work, I was sleeping.
After I finished school, I was a single mom and working a stressful, high demand job. It was a lot… but I did start reading again and was back to everything I could get my hands on.
In 2016, I started my journey to become a writer by writing Mandy’s Story (may or may not be the final name). I tried to read but I found I couldn’t enjoy the books as much. I found I was analyzing the writing of it more than enjoying the story which made me sad.
All that to say, I haven’t read a whole lot in the last several years and I need to kick it up. It will only help me in advancing my own career and give me back a hobby that I once enjoyed so very much.
I may end up writing a part two on this topic because I have more to say about it, but for now thanks for the support.