The world is stuffed full of a wide rainbow of people, from all places, backgrounds, gender identities and sexualities, to name a few differences. As our fiction aims to represent the world around us so our characters need to represent that wide variety of people. For a long time, queer characters have been underrepresented inContinueContinue reading “Creating authentic queer characters”
Tag Archives: LGBTQ+
AI Tools in Editing: Why a Human is Best!
In this blog post, we consider why AI tools, despite their ability to understand some rules of grammar and syntax, fall short. We consider cultural landscapes, evolving language and emotional depths that define fiction, showcasing the indispensable role of human editors in crafting stories that not only adhere to grammatical conventions but also resonate authenticallyContinueContinue reading “AI Tools in Editing: Why a Human is Best!”
The Seven Basic (Queer) Plots
It is said that there are only seven basic plots for all stories. No matter how complex or involved the story seems to be, it can be placed into one of the seven different types of story. The seven basic plots are not genres but structures we can use to construct a story and toContinueContinue reading “The Seven Basic (Queer) Plots”
2024 Awareness Days
There are many LGBTQ+ awareness days throughout the year. These are days that bring particular attention to a group of people who share a common identity or experience.
Writing inclusive non-fiction books
LGBTQ+ inclusion is essential for creating a more welcoming society. Diversity in books, especially non-fiction books, embraces this diversity, makes it visible and can allow a platform for marginalised voices to be heard. My brand new guide is aimed at writers of non-fiction books who want to ensure that they are writing text and creatingContinueContinue reading “Writing inclusive non-fiction books”
The 2023 Polari Prize Winners
Polari is the UK’s leading live showcase for emerging and established LGBTQ+ literary talent. Who won the 2023 prizes? The Polari Prize is the UK’s only LGBTQ+ book prize. This year there are two prizes: for debut and non-debut books. The biannual Children’s / YA book prize returns next year. Founded in 2011, this yearContinueContinue reading “The 2023 Polari Prize Winners”
The Importance of Trans Characters
In recent literary trends, there’s a notable shift towards better representation of LGBTQ+ characters, including those who identify as transgender. This blog post looks at the importance of fostering inclusivity and providing a platform for authentic storytelling. Noteworthy Novels Have you read any novels with trans characters? Leave a comment below and I’ll add themContinueContinue reading “The Importance of Trans Characters”
The Essential Case for Hiring a Copyeditor for Your LGBTQ+ Self-Published Novel
Crafting a novel is an exhilarating journey, especially when it involves themes and stories from the LGBTQ+ spectrum. As you near the finish line, it’s crucial to understand that the final step, the polish, can significantly impact the reception and success of your book. Here’s why enlisting the expertise of a copyeditor is a game-changerContinueContinue reading “The Essential Case for Hiring a Copyeditor for Your LGBTQ+ Self-Published Novel”
US First Lady Comes Out Against Book Bans
In a powerful statement, Jill Biden, the First Lady of the United States, has publicly condemned the alarming rise of book bans targeting LGBTQ+ literature. This trend restricts access to important stories and information, denying individuals their right to read and explore diverse perspectives. Her firm stance highlights the urgent need for inclusivity and acceptanceContinueContinue reading “US First Lady Comes Out Against Book Bans”
Sensitivity without Stereotyping: Navigating LGBTQ+ Character Portrayals
In the ever-evolving world of literature, diversity and representation have become critical themes. Within this landscape, LGBTQ+ literature has made significant strides in sharing unique stories and experiences. Yet, despite the progress, there’s a persistent challenge that writers and editors must tackle: the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters without resorting to harmful stereotypes. In this blogContinueContinue reading “Sensitivity without Stereotyping: Navigating LGBTQ+ Character Portrayals”
