An Interview with Lynda Young
What's your writing advice/top tip for writers?
Normally my top tip would be, “Just write!” I say it often because it’s so important to
spend the time actually writing rather than dreaming of one day writing, or
spending all your time and effort on courses, seminars, and help books.
But today, I have a new top tip that is equally important:
Read! And not only read, but read the genre you want to write. I’m truly astounded
how many times I come across writers who don’t read. They think it takes time
away from their writing, or they simply aren’t interested. There are so many
benefits to reading, I couldn’t possibly list them all here. One of the major
benefits is learning what works for your market. While “How to Write” books
and courses are helpful, there is no substitute to reading the real deal.
For my 365-day devotional, Cling to God, I read so many devotionals and inspirational
books. I worked out what I liked best, what I didn’t like as much, what left me
feeling encouraged and stronger in my faith, and I applied everything I learned
to my own book. In other words, I wrote the book I wanted to read, one that also
fit within reader expectations.
Where do you find inspiration?
Each morning I read a few verses of the Bible, contemplate on the words, and
occasionally jot down inspired thoughts in a journal. This is how Cling to God started.
I hadn’t decided one day to write a book of devotionals. The idea evolved after filling
the journal. There was enough there to share with others. I began reading them
out during Bible study and as devotionals before church meetings. That’s when
the idea grew into a book.
But of course, ultimately, my inspiration came from God.
Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what music inspires you?
Silence is preferable but not always possible. When I need an escape from noise,
I’ll listen to instrumental music. I can’t write if there are lyrics. The words distract
too much. The kind of beat varies depending on mood. I love anything that tugs
on the emotions. Epic sounds with swelling crescendos are great, or deep drums.
Usually something modern. If I’m after something softer, then flutes work a
treat or something tribal. As I said, mood has a lot to do with it.
Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa?
While I love the smell of coffee, I don’t drink it. When I’m trying to steer clear of sugar,
I’ll have a herbal tea, a green tea, or a genmaicha (a Japanese rice tea).
Otherwise, it’s hot cocoa all the way. The richer the better. No cream or
marshmallows. Just a mug of dark chocolate yum.
What is the current book you are promoting?
Cling to God: 365-Day Devotional. This special book is a year-long journey with
inspirational messages and uplifting scripture to help you spend time with God
each day. It includes short Bible-based teachings that will encourage and refresh.
It is faith building and thought-provoking with reassuring reminders of God’s love.
A great companion for individual worship or for group Bible study.
The perfect gift book or personal keepsake that will be cherished for years to come.
365 days of inspiration and Bible wisdom to lighten your heart.
365 devotions to bring you peace in uncertain times.
365 ways to Cling to God.
Start each morning with Cling to God to brighten your day and draw closer to God.
Thank you for stopping by, Lynda. I agree, we all need to read and write. :)
Have you picked up your copy of Cling to God yet?
I recommend it.
I purchased extra copies to give to family for Christmas.
In addition to this interview, I have a fall sale going on. Details are here:
