“Ask Jane” Shorts
One-to-three minute videos on critical writing questions that give you the answers you need quickly and let you get back to writing!
Where do I start when using symbolism in my stories?
In this video, we'll explore how to effectively use symbols in your writing—including where to start and a sure-fire approach to ensuring that your symbols or...
My publisher says I need blurbs. What is a blurb?
In this video, I discuss author blurbs—an essential tool in promoting your book and establishing reader expectations. Blurbs not only help convey the book's...
Is it okay to use more description in my story until the action starts
Books were once the average person’s gateway to worlds beyond their reach. However, today's reader is constantly immersed in a highly visual world, with an...
Is it better to use similes and metaphors when describing a character’s face and body?
This video explores whether similes and metaphors add interest and appeal to your writing or if you're better off sticking with straightforward descriptions....
How can I keep my red herrings unpredictable across a series of books?
In this video, I share my strategy for keeping red herrings fresh and avoiding predictable storylines across a series. It has worked wonders for me throughout...
How can I show my characters’ differences in perceptions or opinions using description?
n this video, I explore the power of perception and discuss how to use people's differing perceptions to raise the bar on your storytelling. Using an example...
Do the principles of writing descriptions in fiction apply to narrative nonfiction?
In this video, we tackle an interesting question: Do the principles of writing compelling descriptions in fiction translate well to writing narrative or...
What exercises can I use to improve my description writing skills?
Are you ready to enhance your description writing skills? In this video, I share two powerful exercises to help you breathe life into your scenes and...
Do certain genres require more description than others?
Ever wondered why some genres seem to demand a richer tapestry of details than others? In this video, I explore the necessity of description in genres like...
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