2009 marks the 11th year of fast-paced noveling known as National Novel Writing Month. NaNoWriMo has a long and, ahem, storied history of producing everything from terrible purple prose to polished, published novels. As of last year, over 30 NaNoWriMo authors had taken their November novels from chaos to published books. We here at The Editorial Department believe in the talent of NaNo authors, and the potential of NaNo novels, and would like to help you make your rough novel-in-a-month into a polished, potentially publishable gem.

Throughout the month of November, we'll share our editors' best tips and tricks, helpful links from around the web, and inspiration and encouragement from the seasoned NaNoWriMo authors among our staff and clients. Kristi Jenkins (midwinter on the NaNo boards), a 7-year NaNo veteran and 6-year Municipal Liaison, is here to answer your NaNoWriMo questions and to show you how The Editorial Department's services can transform your novel. Follow her on the Just Keep Typing blog, or on our Facebook page, and share your NaNo experiences (or brag about your soaring word count - because even veterans need a kick of inspiration).

When November winds down, we'll switch our focus to completing drafts and taking your manuscript to the next level. Whether you chose to self-publish or seek traditional agenting and publication, we're here for you. Get the ball rolling with a 10-page manuscript evaluation today, or let our staff get to work on your last NaNo novel while you prepare for this year. Here's to hyper-caffeination and frenetic noveling!

* * * * *

Want professional feedback on your manuscript and a way to help NaNoWriMo at the same time? We have a special deal for NaNoWriMo authors! From now until December 31st, 2009, purchase our $35 Manuscript Critique and we will donate $5 to NaNoWriMo.

Also, as NaNoWriMo winds down, we have an incredible new special to announce. This is for ALL NaNoWriMo participants, whether you reached 50,000 words or not. The special is also good for any NaNoWriMo work - it's not limited to this year's story. With this special, we will:

-Review up to five pages of plot synopsis or summary (polish your pitch!)

-Review the first 25 pages of your manuscript text

You will receive a written summary of your editor's reaction to your work, and will also receive a half-hour consultation with your editor by telephone. This package, availble now through December 31st, 2009, is only $100.

(Please let us know your NaNoWriMo screen name in the comments box so we can verify you're a participant).

* * * * *

Tips, inspiration, and other helpful resources:

October Between the Lines e-zine: The NaNoWriMo Issue

Renni Browne on Characters and making them real

A review of RoughDraft writing software (for PC)

Author and writing instructor, Janet Burroway

Don't let implausibility derail your writing

* * * * *

Writing and grammar books we love:

Chris Baty's excellent No Plot, No Problem: A Low-Stress, High-Velocity Guide to Writing a Novel in 30 Days, the ultimate guide to writing a NaNo novel.

Self Editing for Fiction Writers, co-authored by Editorial Department founder, Renni Browne

On Writing, Stephen King's memoir of a writing life, and an all-around great book on craft and process.

The Deluxe Transitive Vampire: A Handbook of Grammar for the Innocent, the Eager and the Doomed. An unconventional grammar book that instructs and entertains.