Insights by Anne Adams on Jane Friedman
Everyone who knows anything about me knows there’s only one thing I like to do more than write – attend a writer’s conference! Along with the usual workshops, break-out groups, and panel sessions there are, of course, many opportunities for networking, purchasing your favorite author’s latest offering and submitting your own work for writing competitions. Sprinkle all of this activity with opportunities to meet literary agents
and publishers on an individual basis and you’ll understand why I call these venues “Playgrounds.” In my writer’s world, it just doesn’t get much better than this!
As an extra reward, at most writers’conferences, you’re likely to meet someone whom you know is genuinely sincere about what they have to offer. It’s “written all over them.” You may see it in their smile or posture; but, most of all, their attentiveness to your questions as a writer is what will really win you over. In return, you’ll vow that you’ll buy every book they write, read all of their published articles and follow their advice for as long as you participate in the creative art known as “writing.” In November, 2005 at the Florida Writers Association conference that someone for me was Jane Friedman. So far, I’ve kept my vow.
Many of you know Ms. Friedman through her responsibilities as a contributing editor to Writer’s Digest magazine. Others, through her entries on the WD blog, There Are No Rules. Still others, through her monthly contributory blog posts for Writer Unboxed or through her Writer’s Digest University online classes. And then there are those of you who have recently learned how to Write Your Novel in 30 Days – once again, thanks to Jane’s tutelage. Many would think that she’s all things to all writers – but, if she’s not, it’s not for lack of trying!
Taking her own advice, she also authored an e-book, The Future of Publishing, released it in a PDF format and at a most reasonable price. Her Twitter presence also has a great offering – Best Tweets for Writers Daily. A little over a week ago, Ms. Friedman was the keynote speaker at a recent Arkansas Writer’s Conference, and was appointed Arkansas Traveler & Ambassador of Good Will by Governor Mike Beebe - so I guess they spotted her as that someone, too.
And, all of this in addition to maintaining a full-time position as Assistant Professor of E-Media at the University of Cincinnati
Jane Friedman is what old-school writers call a “quick study.” But, the refreshing part is that she believes in sharing her knowledge - affordably. The event calendar on her website will attest to this. Her simple query of “Are you looking for an experienced writing instructor who knows the industry inside and out? I know what helps writers better than anyone—plus I’m friendly, flexible, and won’t break your budget.” is genuine. As a former officer of the FWA, I can attest to this: Jane believes in what she’s offering, and has her own views about what writers’ conferences can do for those who want to know more about flexing the muscles of their pens. When I asked her about this, like every good writer, her answer was succinct and to the point:
“As far as what writers can gain from conferences, two things: a) It shortens the learning curve in terms of both craft/technique and the business of publishing. I don't know of a better way to supercharge one's learning and progress; and, b) For those who are actively trying to get published, meeting with an agent or editor is invaluable in figuring out why your work might not yet be ready or marketable. Often rejections through the mail (or e-mail) never offer any valuable insights. But in-person critique appointments and pitch sessions often deliver immediate insights that can help you improve your work or change course in a productive way.” That’s good enough for me.
