WRITING HERO: Kristen Lamb

For a long time now, Becca and I have wanted a way to acknowledge the people who have helped us develop into stronger writers and who add to the writing community as a whole. As a feature here at The Bookshelf Muse, I will give some well-deserved shout outs to those who really make an impact...people who truly are Writing Heroes.

It is my pleasure to announce this month's hero: KRISTEN LAMB.

I realize that for most of you, Kristen needs no introduction. Her passion for helping writers is legendary, her ability to navigate the expansive landscape of Social Media is unparallelled, and her vision for a better world for all Creatives is truly one-of-a-kind. Refreshingly honest, Kristen doesn't shy away from being the voice we all need to hear--the one that encourages us to be the very best version of ourselves.

Kristen's books, Are You There Blog? It's Me, Writer and We Are Not Alone: The Writer's Guide to Social Media have helped thousands upon thousands of writers! Her blog is a treasure trove of wit and meaty wisdom about writing, social media and the publishing arena. She's also the creator of the #MyWANA hashtag on Twitter, which allows thousands of writers a way to engage, make friends and offer support in an otherwise vast and sometimes intimidating social network.  This year, her central support concept of We Are Not Alone transformed into WANA International and its sister social site WANA Tribe, which together have become a hub for all Creatives to learn, grow, collaborate and become empowered.

Francis the WANA Mascot

One thing I love about Kristen is that she thinks BIG. Not  big like The World's Biggest Bacon Explosion, or The World's Biggest Bacon Double Cheeseburger, although those are baconliciously awesome in their own right. No, Kristen studies the wide screen version of how people and technology meet, and instead of getting bogged down in doing what has always been done, she looks for the fork in the road that can take things to an alternative future--a better one. I've often called her a visionary, and I think this fits the bill. While others in Kristen's position might be content to simply focus on writers and how they can navigate the Indiana Jones' route to the holy publishing Grail, she also takes on the industry, supplying solutions to bring about big changes. I think that's pretty cool.

In truth, I could find another million reasons why Kristen is a heroic advocate for writers, but I think you get the point. If you see her at a conference, introduce yourself! If you are hungry for insight and new ideas, swing past her blog and check out her books. If you want to learn and grow and find a tribe, you'll discover that at WANA International. But most of all, find her doing what she does best on social networks--tweeting, FBing and Google plussing. You'll learn a lot, and have fun doing it.

Thank you Kristen, for being one of my WRITING HEROES. You inspire me!

To pay it forward, I will give a 1000-word critique to Kristen. She can then choose to keep it for herself or offer it as a giveaway on her blog! As a resident writing hero, she will also have a permanent link in our header.

So tell me Musers...do you know Kristen Lamb? Has she helped you or your writing in some way? Please tell us in the comments and help celebrate this amazing WRITING HERO! 

~   ~   ~   ~

****PSST! Also, if you would like to find out more about how to show your character's HIDDEN EMOTION, come visit me at Strands of a Pattern!