April IWSG Post and my Long Blogging Break

 

I was on a long blogging break for several reasons. For one I had to finish writing my books, I had to do the first round of editing for my debut adult novel with the commissioning editor’s guidance, I had to write my columns, I was also travelling a lot for book promotions, I attended several literary festivals, I was one of the jury members of the prestigious Atta Galatta Bangalore Literature Children’s Book Prize, where I had to read 26 books (12 Middle Grade and 14 Picture Books).

With so much going on in life, blogging took a back seat. But I didn’t forget my blog buddies. You all were constantly on my mind.

I have loads of news to share with you all. Last year I participated in the Writing Competition organized by Children’s Book Trust of India. I won 3 prizes (two picture book prizes for different categories and one prize for a short story). I also signed several contracts for books which I have to finish by this year end.

So, my blogging will definitely not be regular. That’s making me feel sad.

I used to enjoy posting on the first Wednesday of every month for the IWSG post. IWSG (Insecure Writers Support Group) was started by Alex J Cavanaugh to provide support, encouragement and give a shout out to writers.

The awesome co-hosts for April 3 posting of the IWSG are Janet Alcorn, T. Powell Coltrin, Natalie Aguirre and Pat Garcia.

April 3 question – How long have you been blogging? (Or on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram?) What do you like about it and how has it changed?

I have been blogging for 14 years now. Initially I used to post twice a week, that’s 8 times a month. But slowly my blogging days started reducing, later I started posting just once a month for IWSG. Last year I took a ten-month long break as I was unable to juggle all my writing with my other responsibilities in life.

Though I have accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, I am notorious for irregular posting. I post only when I have some news to share and more often than not that’s new book news. No wonder my followers keep disappearing.

How have you all been?

 

 

 

 

 

On A Blogging Break for a few Months

 

Hi Everyone,

Due to the start of the editing process on my adult novel I will be going on a blogging break for a few months. I also have a few other books heading for publication this year.

 As the work load has become overwhelming, I feel I need to take a few steps back and take a break from several things which include blogging and freelance writing. I will also be taking a break from my column for a few months.

Till then stay safe, keep writing and loads of love.

Rachna

 

 

May IWSG Post and what Inspires me?

 Its horribly hot here in Bangalore. I think I will start melting soon. All I want to do is sit under the fan and read. Sadly, deadlines are staring at me from all sides.

The 30 days of April flew by with several rounds of edits for a new book, some short stories, my columns and research for another book. Before I realized it, we had stepped into May and into another IWSG. Started by author Alex J Cavanaugh, IWSG (Insecure Writers Support Group) is a buzzing group of global writers. Alex is a best-selling author, a musician and everyone’s favourite Santa, he is always trying to help writers.

The awesome co-hosts for the May 3 posting of the IWSG are Joylene Nowell Butler, Ronel Janse vanVuuren, Meka James, Victoria Marie Lees and M Louise Barbour!

May 3 question - When you are working on a story, what inspires you?

When I am working on a story, the story and the characters inspire me. At that time, I am obsessed with getting all the words out, into a word document. Once I get an idea, the characters start stalking me. They catch hold of me and start blabbering. They don’t leave me unless and until I tell their story. Once I get into the flow, then I just need to write that first draft. The faster I write that first draft, the better I feel.

What about you all? What inspires you when you are working on a story?