Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer: How to Win Top Writing Assignments | Date: 28 April 2011, 05:40
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Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer: How to Win Top Writing Assignments
By Jenna Glatzer
* Publisher: Nomad Press
* Number Of Pages: 176
* Publication Date: 2004-05-01
* ISBN-10 / ASIN: 097220265X
* ISBN-13 / EAN: 9780972202657
Product Description:
Step-by-step instructions on how writers can earn top dollar writing for magazines are provided in this book. Secrets are revealed about what the high-paying magazines really want, how to build relationships with editors, how to ascertain which sections of a magazine are open to freelancers, what kinds of stories are in demand, what to do if a deadbeat publisher doesn't pay up, how to market reprints, and how to become an expert in one's chosen writing field. Basic terms like query clips, and source sheet are defined for beginning writers, and tips on everything from coming up with an idea to pitching a syndicated column are also included. Writers learn about the little-known sources top freelancers use to find new stories and experts. In addition, they learn how to get their first paying assignments even if they have no prior clips, how to negotiate for better pay, how to find high-paying magazines that aren't swamped with queries, and how to worm their way into editors' inboxes even if their e-mail addresses aren't publicized.
Summary: Jammed with practical, useful information
Rating: 5
This book is a must-read for anyone considering freelancing, whether as a career or for extra income. The writing is direct and conversational and, mercifully, we are spared unneeded chapters on "how to write," which often clutter books of this nature. Instead, you will learn the ins and outs of the business, the pitfalls, and the rookie mistakes that can make a newcomer appear unprofessional. Like any good book on writing, serious writers will benefit from reading it, even those whose interests lie elsewhere. The edition I read is a few years old, so I'm not sure if the sidebars on good websites have ever been updated.
Summary: This book got me my first paid assignment!
Rating: 5
I practically hyperventilated with happiness while devouring the pages of Jenna Glatzer's 'Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer', which I stumbled upon on amazon.com while ordering the 2009 Writer's Market. Her book was exactly what I wanted and needed. By the second chapter I thought "Wow- I've already gotten my money's worth." I laughed out loud when she wrote "Writers can go from thinking they are the greatest writer who ever lived to worrying they're illiterate tree stumps, in the course of five minutes."
She starts out by informing us that her freelance writing bought her a house on a lake, a boat, a car, and interesting, expensive gifts for her boyfriend. Isn't that what we all want?
It is full of useful information and websites, such as how/why to get a business license and where to find quotes. Two highlights of the book for me are:
1. Her actual examples of successful query letters that resulted in paid writing assignments
2. Her encouragement. She wrote something like "You don't have to be the world's best writer to succeed in this business, just a resourceful one with fresh and interesting ideas to pitch." What freedom to think that I don't have to be a Hemingway or Fitzgerald in order to be "a writer." In my working life I'd cranked out some pretty good correspondence, communications, and grants, all spelled and punctuated correctly. I've subscribed to scores of magazines and know I can write like them. I've been complimented on my thank you notes over the years, so I know I am "good enough" to write, and this statement unleashed me to take a stab at freelancing. I like writing and have lots of ideas to share!
I read and highlighted Jenna's book, followed its advice. and shot off some query letters. Yesterday I opened a random email, and it was from an editor who wrote:
"We like your idea very much. We would like to use it as an evergreen piece and want 1200 words at 50 cents a word."
It's just like Jenna said! I got a paid assignment! Because I read the book, I knew what "evergreen" meant, and could calmly and professionally write back that I'd look forward to receiving the contract.
Unknown to the editor, my eyes grew wide with disbelief when I read her words, and I then collapsed on my keyboard and wept heaving tears of joy.
Thank you Jenna!
Summary: The Best Freelance Book Ever
Rating: 5
I refer to this book on almost a daily basis. Jenna helps you develop article ideas through interesting exercises that use the things you know to get you started. The chapter I enjoyed the most was Chapter 4 Study Your Market. Here Jenna teaches you how to research a magazine to find out if they accept freelance articles and in what sections of the magazine they publish them. She also discusses how to find the name of the editor you need. From article ideas, to copyright laws Jenna covers most everything in this handy book. There are also many website, book and organization resources listed throughout these pages. I suggest every freelance writer own a copy of this book, it is helpful for beginners as well as experienced freelancers.
Summary: Great How-To!
Rating: 5
This book is right on the money! I've sold two articles since I bought the book a month ago.
I've been writing for eight years without a real focus. This book gave me a clear direction to follow.
Thank you, Jenna.
*I wish the book had an index and sample invoice...
Summary: Refreshing!
Rating: 5
Excellent book by an excellent author. This one covered everything that I have always thought missing in other, similar, books. Jenna is informative, without giving you too much and putting you on overload. This book is written to those who obviously have NOT gotten a writing career off the ground and she covers everything from that ground up... and she does it without jargon, without talking over your head, or down to the lowly masses below. Every concept introduced is defined AND you learn why it is important and when and how it will effect you. The exercises are not just exercises - they are geared toward putting you on-track to that desired writing career. If you have any desire to become an article/feature writer, I suggest this book become a part of your learning curve!
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