Gennifer Albin: How I Write

I’m so excited to have Gennifer Albin, debut author of Crewel, here today for a “How I Write” feature! Thank you so much to Gennifer for participating!

Are you a planner (outline, etc.) or pantser?

I used to consider myself a pantser, but I’ve had to be more of a planner for the sequels. It’s easier to just sit down and write when it’s a fresh, new story. Now there are rules and plot threads and characters to outline. I think there are benefits to both approaches, and that nearly every writer utilizes both methods at some point.

Do you have any writing quirks?

I write better when I’m writing “with someone.” Whether I’m sprinting someone on twitter or at a coffee shop with a friend, I’m just more productive.

Where is your favorite place to write?

I write all over the place. I got through phases where I have to write at Starbucks or I have to write at home. Really it’s just a matter of where I can go and get in the mindset.

What tool(s) do you use to write? Microsoft Word, Pages, Scrivener, typewriter, pen and paper, and/or napkins/toilet paper?

Scrivener has become my new best friend. I didn’t use it for Crewel, but it’s been very helpful for the sequels. I also have about 50 notebooks I scribble random thoughts along with hotel notepads and post-its.

What are your thoughts on traditional publishing vs. self-publishing?
For this book traditional publishing was a great fit, but my best friend is self-publishing and I love watching his process. It’s amazing all the avenues writers have available to them now. I think we’re going to see less of a dichotomy between the two as more and more writers cross from one method to the other.

Have you participated in NaNoWriMo before? 

Crewel is a NaNo novel. It was my 2010 project, and I drafted the second book during NaNo 2011. I love the whole NaNo community and I can’t wait to participate in it this November.

Gennifer Albin’s Debut:

More “How I Write” Q&As!