I started a new writing group on Linkedin.com early this year, called, "Write On, Networkers!" Our purpose is to create fun writing contests, encouraging writers to write and network.

We have over 300 members now and have run four contests and a few side games. I think the tandem ones are my favorite. The last was a 6 word tandem story, where everyone can add in a 6 word contribution to forward the story line. You can say a lot in 6 words!

The latest contest has no word limits (except for the word limitation of the comment box on linkedin). The theme is a holiday story (or an end of the year story). Each one is touching!

If you’re interested in joining our group, just visit linkedin and find our group and ask to join. We’d love to have you!

It is such a joy to write a novel when you really know your characters.  I find that when you have done all your research, they become friends, almost as if they are neighbors living across the street.

Have you ever tried simply setting up a scene and listening to your characters?

As a writer, I know I am on the right track when I put characters in a scene and they start "talking".  All I need to do is listen and type.  Sometimes they are too fast for me!

When it isn’t flowing like that, I know there is something not quite right about the scene, something that makes it unrealistic.  Sort of like if you put me in the middle of a baking contest or a quilting bee.  You’d find my conversation fairly non-existent.

Try it.  And let me know.  Set your friends at a dinner table and see what they say.  I can promise you, it is fun.

It seems to me that some writers try hard to impress their readers with language.  They use the biggest words they know.

Sometimes writers know the best word for the context and want to use it for good reason.  Finding one word to replace three is a good idea.

However, as a writer the first task is to make sure your work is understood.  If you use language which is not understood by the majority of the people who might read your piece, your work will go unread.

Always write for understanding amongst your readers.  Choose the words that communicate best.

It is the dream of every writer that their work will be read by many and appreciated.  This is attainable if you choose your words carefully.

It is a a wonderful feeling to inspire others to write.

This last year I hosted various writing contests for children and adults and was rewarded by their enthusiasm for writing.  The six word short story concept is a very good place to start.  I found that even 5 and 6 year olds can get behind this game.

My 6-year-old son came out with a few entries that I really enjoyed:

“When its dead, scientists find bones.”

Here he’s talking about his love of dinosaurs without ever using the word.

“The plant escaped from the tank.”

My love of sci-fi makes my imagination run wild with this one.

One of his friends, Dane Skolfield, won for his class with:

“Santa rides in bus, summer Christmas.”

There were three other entries by their classmates.  Impressive!