Writing to trends: don’t do it!
From the number of “How To Write A Bestseller” books and articles and webapages out there, it’s clear that this seems to be the Holy Grail for many writers. And of course it’s understandable — most authors want their books to sell well.
Judging from bookstore shelves, one hot trend in YA lit right now is vampire romance, inspired by the bestselling Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer. But does that mean hopeful writers should jump on the vampire bandwagon in hopes of increasing their chances of publishing success?
Not a good idea, according to one children’s book editor:
…Generally speaking, since trends are usually over in less than two years, and it usually takes publishers two years to publish a book, chances are that any trend you see in the marketplace right now is, in publishing, already rotting in its grave. With a stake in its heart.
Write what you want to write, and write it well.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I love that cartoon, Debbie. So much my sense of humor. Man, it takes me so long to write a book, I couldn’t imagine trying to chase a trend!
The genie is cute! You are so right. Trends come and go but good writing lasts.
I think one more vampire or one more fairy might put me over the edge, so if this trend is passing I have to say I’m pleased. That’s not to say I dislike the fantasy genre; I’m just a little tired of it at the moment and in need of some reality.