Giveaway Day 2: Running Lean by Diana L. Sharples

The winner of the copy of Running Lean by Diana L. Sharples is Lisa Canfield.

Congratulations, Lisa! Contact info@jillwilliamson.com to claim your prize!

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Jill here. 

To celebrate the coming holiday and vacation, we're hosting the 12 Giveaways of Christmas. That's 12 giveaways, 12 days in a row. 

Welcome to Day 2.

Each giveaway will run for 48 hours, so be sure and check back each day to see what giveaway is next and who the winners are.

Today, my friend Diana L. Sharples is giving away an autographed copy of her novel Running Lean. She also has some writing advice to share with you.

Advice for Teen Writers

by Diana L. Sharples

You’ve no doubt heard the old story about the tortoise and the hare. The hare thought he could win the race by running as fast as he could, and he was so far ahead of the tortoise that he felt he could take a break. While the hare was napping, the slow and steady tortoise made it to the finish line.

At times I’m reminded of this story when I see some people rush to publish their work, either by submitting it too early or by jumping into self-publishing. And many times the result is one rejection letter after another, or a book that cost a lot of money to produce but isn’t selling. So many teens have asked me, “How do I get published?” My heart goes out to them, because I understand that desire so well! But it’s really the wrong question. I feel a better question should be, “How do I hone my craft so my work is worthy of publication?”

That can be a slower, even harder road, but that tortoise pace may be what’s needed to win the race … because having patience and staying the course will make you a better writer, whether you choose to self publish or submit to a traditional publishing house. Stay the course, and learn to love the journey. You’ll be rewarded with a win in the end.


What fabulous advice! Thanks so much for that, Diana.

Like I said before, Diana is giving away an autographed copy of her book, Running Lean. USA entries only on this one, please. Here's a little bit about the story:

Equilibrium. That’s what Stacey and Calvin found in each other. He is as solid as his beloved vintage motorcycle and helps quiet the constant clamor in Stacey’s mind. She is a passionate, creative spirit—and a lifeline after Calvin’s soldier brother dies.

But lately the balance is off. Calvin’s grief is taking new forms. Voices of self-loathing are dominating Stacey’s life. When struggles with body image threaten her health, Calvin can’t bear to lose another person that he loves. Taking action may destroy their relationship, but the alternative could be much more costly.

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