ARCHIVE FOR Katrin Schumann

By Katrin Schumann

Do you ever really struggle to find just the right book to fit your mood? When I’m deeply embroiled in my own writing, I get particularly fussy about my reading material. I want to be inspired and energized—I really don’t want to think: How the hell did THIS get published?

So when I find a book that grabs me and won’t let go, I’m filled with pure delight and gratitude

By Katrin Schumann

Let's say you're going to The Muse & The Marketplace in Boston (May 5 - 7), and you've taken the plunge and decided to sign up for the Manuscript Mart. You're going to meet with an agent or editor one on one to get an unvarnished, professional opinion of your work.

By Katrin Schumann

People tend to think writing is romantic, and they’re not entirely wrong. It’s romantic in the way that being obsessed with someone who kind of, basically, mostly loves you back can be romantic—it’s a compelling, desperate, all-encompassing, occasionally fabulous experience. It’s romantic like starving in a garret is romantic: you’re hungry (which sucks), but at least you’re doing something that feels meaningful.

By Katrin Schumann

All writers need readers for drafts of their work. It’s critical to understand whether your vision for the book has been realized, or whether you might be off the mark. You’re not looking for approval—you’re looking to understand whether your ideas are getting through to the reader or not. As writers, we are so close to our own work that it’s often hard for us to tell.

By Katrin Schumann

When we have time to write—hours upon hours of uninterrupted time—do we get more done? Are we happier? The answer may seem obvious, but think again. 

Books on productivity are big business. They tell us we need will power