To Kill a Mockingbird is the all-around best-written book of the 20th Century. It was my favorite novel to teach as a high school English teacher. The writing is precise and descriptive. It captures the essence of the South and its residents. The messages in this story are timely for today in the 21st Century.
A good title is short and snappy. It is also truthful. Readers don't like to be tricked so a good title hints at what the book is about. I like covers that are photographic and simple. A book's cover must move me emotionally if I am going to purchase it. My favorite cover is on my book Come for Coffee. Readers tell me it is warm and inviting--just what I wanted it to be!
Clarity, clarity, clarity. I hate to read "foggy" writing. We owe it to our readers to deliver messages and stories written in language that fully describes the scene or concept. I also think succinct writing is good. We writers often use too many words to convey our thoughts. We must not insult the reader by over-explaining.
