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Dinah Laprairie

@dinahlaprairie.bsky.social
143 followers 170 following 159 posts

Book Coach & Editor • Reader • Optimistic Realist • Always Distracted by Delight & Discovery • 🇨🇦

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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 26/02/2026
Arts and culture are essential for healthy cities. #GreaterSudbury City Council made some changes this year to the funding of its grants program, and we’re crossing our fingers that funding remains at “healthy “ levels in 2026. www.thesudburystar.com/entertainmen...
thesudburystar.com
City of Greater Sudbury changes arts funding, sparking concern
State of the Arts: Sudbury Arts council says it hopes there will be no reduction in funds for the arts community.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 18/01/2026
I love everything @lmbayley.bsky.social writes. Always have! Especially love hearing her read her own work. 🙂
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 12/01/2026
Writing #nonfiction or #memoir and ready to get back to the work? The Return to Your Book Challenge is for you. 7 prompts, 2 weeks. Respond publicly, reflect privately, or simply read along. No check-ins, no pressure. Starts today! Join here ► www.skool.com/writing-what... #writingcommunity
Are your pencils sharpened? Looks like the ones sitting in this pencil cup are. And so am I. I'm Book Coach Dinah Laprairie and The Return to Your Book Challenge for nonfiction and memoir writers begins today, January 12, 2026.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 04/01/2026
January is loud: "Crush those goals, make big plans, make 2026 count!" But work, family, care, and responsibility are already back on my calendar. Are they on yours, too? That's why I opened Writing What’s Possible. A #nonfiction #writingcommunity for real life. ✨ www.skool.com/writing-what...
skool.com
Writing What’s Possible
For nonfiction and memoir writers creating books that matter. Write with care, explore craft, and make progress alongside others who get it.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 12/12/2025
Because we all need more books in our TBR pile… open.substack.com/pub/dinahlap...
open.substack.com
This week: The Top 3 Book Picks of 2025 from 10 Canadian Book Coaches
Today, in the first of three special issues this week, we share the favourite 2025 reads of Michelle Bish, Dinah Laprairie, and Nita Collins.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 27/11/2025
Ever get this close to finishing something and still hesitate? Wendy Schwartz did too. Her book was ready, but then...discomfort showed up. In my latest post, we talk about what helped her finally click “publish”—and what she learned along the way. dinahlaprairie.substack.com/p/an-optimis...
dinahlaprairie.substack.com
An Optimistic Pause: Lessons on Publishing from a First-Time Author
Clear-eyed insights from Wendy Schwartz on writing, waiting, and vulnerability.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 12/11/2025
So pleased to see this review of Liisa’s book as I scrolled! 👏 Her latest book, a work of fiction called Like Water for Weary Souls, was launched on Sunday. I’m immersed in it now! www.liisakovalabookcoach.com/likewaterfor...
liisakovalabookcoach.com
Like Water for Weary Souls | Liisa Kovala
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 12/11/2025
I love that people are being recognized for doing good.
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Reposted by Dinah Laprairie
AVK | Wide World of Batshit @avk.bsky.social · 12/11/2025
Crime: Man steals bus with passengers on board. Canadian Crime: He still makes the scheduled stops to let passengers on and off. Canadian Crime Bonus: He denies boarding to one passenger because his bus pass had expired. globalnews.ca/news/1152251...
globalnews.ca
Man arrested after Ontario transit bus stolen with passengers on board, police say | Globalnews.ca
Hamilton police say a suspect is facing charges after a transit bus was stolen with passengers on board when the driver had exited for a short break.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 03/11/2025
I'm presenting at The Empowered Author Summit. It starts Wednesday! 3 days of writing, publishing & promotion strategies. Free to attend: 📅 November 5–7, 2025 | 💻 Free & Online 👉 Register now: empoweredauthorsummit.heysummit.com?sc=cM7repaD&... #Writing #Selfpublishing #Author #Books
empoweredauthorsummit.heysummit.com
The Empowered Author Summit: Plan, Publish & Promote with Purpose
Three days. Dozens of publishing experts. One mission: To empower indie authors at every stage of...
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 17/10/2025
When your plans become a date on the calendar. Join me at: • Wordstock Sudbury Literary Festival (in 7 days!) • The Empowered Author Summit • Rekindle Creativity Women's Writing Retreat, Spring 2026 open.substack.com/pub/dinahlap...
open.substack.com
Planning for community: Will you join me?
Coming up: Wordstock Sudbury Literary Festival, The Empowered Writer Summit, and our next Rekindle Creativity writing retreat
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
Secret writers are everywhere, I’m learning. Today in my newsletter, I talk to my first book coaching client who took her writing out of her desk drawer and shared it. She transformed into a writer, and now and author. Tomorrow, a public reading. Secret's out! open.substack.com/pub/dinahlap...
open.substack.com
From Secret Draft to Published Book
My Conversation with Kim Sunderland, author of It's All Gonna Be Okay: From Mad & Sad to Calm & Confident
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 18/09/2025
Why yes, I did need a book about bison and activism this week.
The book cover of Conor Kerr’s novel Prairie Edge.
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Reposted by Dinah Laprairie
NPR @npr.org · 10/09/2025
Beverly Cleary's fictional third grader with an adopted dog named Ribsy made his debut in 1950. Cleary was praised for writing simple, humorous stories that kids wanted to read.
n.pr
Happy 75th birthday to Henry Huggins, Ramona Quimby's big-kid neighbor
Beverly Cleary's fictional third grader with an adopted dog named Ribsy made his debut in 1950. Cleary was praised for writing simple, humorous stories that kids wanted to read.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 06/08/2025
Today's writing tip: Guide Your Reader 1. Imagine your reader. Why do they need your book? 2. Plot your reader's transformation from cover to cover. What must they experience—and when? 3. On paper, list your chapters alongside the reader's transformation. What needs to change? #writingcommunity
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 03/08/2025
Craftsmanship is timeless. We unearthed this chair, estimated to be at least 110yo now, in the dusty basement of a used furniture store 25 years ago. It continues to please me to no end. Its partner sits in the dining room. We have no room for them, but I can’t part with them, either.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 01/08/2025
Current book club read: Gator Queen by Tara Lush. 🐊 I have a feeling our mystery club will like this one! We’ll find out next week. #BookSky #CozyMystery
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 30/07/2025
Your book is in conversation with the current moment. Take a moment to imagine that conversation. How does your book respond to the world right now? Use your insights to add purpose to your writing or inform your marketing. #writingcommunity #nonfiction #memoir Next coaching tip next Wednesday!
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 27/07/2025
This article delighted me to no end. There are over 100,000 Wikipedia editors! Just walking around among us! Gift link: www.theglobeandmail.com/gift/066ea50...
theglobeandmail.com
Wikipedia editors, the internet’s nerdy unsung heroes, keep the website one of the last best places online
Free of ads and profit-seeking corporate overlords, and maintained by dedicated volunteers, Wikipedia has consistently ranked as one of the top 10 most visited websites worldwide
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 26/07/2025
Gothic mansion or hidden library? How do I choose?!
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 25/07/2025
You can tell a Sudbury blueberry from the first taste. Nothing better! 🫐
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 23/07/2025
🍋Make lemonade while the sun shines? Yesterday I had 45 min for writing. I squeezed it in while I waited to pick up my daughter from class. ☑️Article: done. I had lemons so I squeezed them. Lemonade tastes best when fresh. I made hay. #WritingTips #WritingCommunity #Nonfiction #Memoir
In this graphic, we see a “laptop lawnchair” in the bottom corner, sitting on the grass. The yellows and greens suggest summer, and indeed it is. The text at the top says "Lawn Chair Coaching: Summertime writing tips." Credit goes to www.dinahlaprairie.com 

In the centre, we read the tip: "Sooner, not later. Don't wait for summer to 'slow down'—it won't. Today, look at your week ahead, and set aside intentional time for your book. A clear plan now creates room to write later."

This tip was brought to you by Dinah Laprairie, Book Coach and Editor. I support everyday experts who want to write nonfiction or memoir. Get in touch if you want to write a big-hearted, reader-centered book.
Only a few summer coaching spots left → https://bit.ly/summer-spark-plan
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 23/07/2025
Finally reading Demon Copperhead—and highlighting everywhere. In my margin notes: “Look at this analogy!” ”Verb tense shifts for tension” “Why am I so worried right now?” “Character development in a heartbeat” Barbara Kingsolver knocks it out of the park. This is why I read. #BookSky
Pictures here is an e-reader. On its screen is a fully highlighted page of text. The bottom the screen shows it is page 749 of 1609 from Demon Copperhead
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 21/07/2025
What does your book need right now? In my new video, I share 3 way writers can use book coaching to make real progress and start the momentum. Only *three spots left* for summer book coaching. DM or visit my site to apply → bit.ly/summer-spark... #writingcommunity #nonfiction #memoir
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Reposted by Dinah Laprairie
Manuscript Academy by #MSWL @manuscriptacademy.bsky.social · 17/07/2025
Are you looking for the perfect agent for your work? Wondering who’d love a project just like yours? Try our #MSWL search tips for Bluesky and find a fit without leaving the platform! youtu.be/LnZt1MCjKZE?...
youtu.be
How To Search #MSWL On Bluesky: Genre, Comps, Date, Keywords
YouTube video by The Manuscript Academy, LLC
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 16/07/2025
Today's tip: Imagine the person who is showing up for your book's message: Who are they? Try it! It makes you imagine your manuscript as a finished book. Need a place to imagine your reader? Try my workbook: bit.ly/7-Key-Questi... #writingcommunity #nonfiction #memoir
In this graphic, we see a “laptop lawnchair” in the bottom corner, sitting on the grass. The yellows and greens suggest summer, and indeed it is. The text at the top says Lawn Chair Coaching: Summertime writing tips. Credit goes to www.dinahlaprairie.com 
In the centre, we read the tip: "Invite Company: Imagine a real person—curious, confused, hopeful—reading your words. Picture that reader sitting beside you. What do you want to tell them?"
This tip was brought to you by Dinah Laprairie, Book Coach and Editor. I support everyday experts who want to write nonfiction or memoir. Get in touch if you want to write a big-hearted, reader-centered book.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 14/07/2025
One 2-day book coaching spot available for July 16 & 18. Need clarity, structure, or a plan that works for you? Let’s make meaningful progress on your book this week. DM for info or apply via my site. Link → bit.ly/summer-spark... #writingcommunity #nonfiction #summerwriting #memoir #bookcoaching
The sun shines down on summer grass, suggesting an energetic day with possibility. Above the grass: “The Summer Spark Writing Plan. Book coaching that fits into summer.” Then: “Available this week: July 16 & 18. Two full days to focus on your book. Apply today.”
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 11/07/2025
On the road this morning, so my reminder is a tad early: The Summer Spark Q&A is today at noon! If you have questions about summer book coaching, register now and join me at 12ET. Come tell me about your book. No pressure. Register → linktr.ee/dinahlaprairie #writingcommunity #memoir #nonfiction
In this illustration, it's a sunny day, and on the grass lies an open laptop and a glass of fresh lemonade. Above, we read these words: Your Book. This Summer. The Summer Spark Writing Plan. In One Hour, Live Q&A. July 11 at noon EST. Register for the Zoom link.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 08/07/2025
Writing nonfiction or memoir? I'll be on Zoom Friday to answer questions if you're curious about my Summer Spark book coaching. No pressure. Just come ask questions & see if we're a fit. Tell me about your Book Spark! Find the links here → linktr.ee/dinahlaprairie #writingcommunity #memoir
An illustrated sun shines down from the top of this image onto these words: "Your book. This summer. Book coaching that fits into summer. Live Q&A this Friday, July 11 at noon EST. Come find out more! Register for the Zoom link."
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 08/07/2025
Immensely enjoying McCall Smith’s loving humour & keen observations about being in relationship to others. 🍦I matched my current reads to ice cream flavours—because why not! Find out what flavour this book is here: dinahlaprairie.substack.com/167535442/ic... What flavour is your book? #BookSky
Book cover of Alexander McCall Smith’s The Perfect Passion Company. A raspberry red cover titled in yellow serif typeface. In the centre, a graphic illustration of an apple half in which we see the silhouettes of a man and woman (presumably). I am halfway through the book and don’t yet see the significance of this image. Nonetheless, it’s a lively, lovely colour and, matched with the size of the book, I enjoy holding it in my hands.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 07/07/2025
Today, I have a freebie for new nonfiction writers: From Here to There, a PDF worksheet to define your book's transformation. Try it, and if you like it, get in touch -- or book one of my summer coaching spots. Links here: linktr.ee/dinahlaprairie #writingcommunity #nonfiction #bookcoaching
In the center of the image, we see a laptop. On its screen, a writer is scribbling in a notebook in front of their computer, a coffee cup beside them. The text reads: "Free download for nonfiction writers. Coaching Exercise. Reveal your book's transformation. Take the first step to: Define your book's journey, Decide on your approach, Curate your content, See your expertise on the page."

At the very bottom, in small text, we read: "The Summer Spark Writing Plan is open now. Apply for a coaching spot."
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The Globe and Mail @theglobeandmail.com · 05/07/2025
theglobeandmail.com
Dictionary of Canadianisms offers more homegrown slang, from give’r to gong show
Third edition includes popular homegrown Canadian slang such as bunny hug and depanneur, along with plenty of surprises
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 03/07/2025
I've been sharing writing tips and my summer coaching program, but I figured I should introduce myself properly! Always happy to chat about books! (Enthusiastically, too!) Tell me what you're working on this summer. I'll cheer you on.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 02/07/2025
Reading makes you a better writer. This summer, find a book in your genre that readers love. What did the author well? → Hi there! Each Wednesday this summer, I’m sharing a new writing tip. Tell me: What's your best advice? #writingcommunity #nonfiction #booksky #memoir
In this graphic, we see an illustrated “laptop lawnchair” in the bottom corner, sitting in the grass. The yellows and greens of the image suggest summer, and indeed it is. 

The text at the top says Lawn Chair Coaching: Summertime writing tips. Credit goes to www.dinahlaprairie.com 

In the centre, we read the tip: Read to Write Better. ÈRead one book in your genre this summer as a writer. What did the author do wellÉ What would you change? Your own book will thank you. (Bonus points if you read on the beach.)

This tip was brought to you by Dinah Laprairie, Book Coach and Editor. I support everyday experts who want to write nonfiction or memoir. Get in touch if you want to write a big-hearted, reader-centered book.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 27/06/2025
Beautiful rain today in Sudbury.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 27/06/2025
This week, I was joined by book coach Kim Reynolds, and we rounded up 6 books for Canadian readers. I have to say, they’re perfect for summer above the 49th. What’s on your summer reading list? open.substack.com/pub/dinahlap...
open.substack.com
Canada Day Special: Our Top 3 Book Picks for Canadian Readers
Book Coach Kim Reynolds joins me in naming our top books | PLUS: My summer coaching intensives are open ... apply now
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 26/06/2025
Your book outline gives you direction. Think of it as a trail map and go explore. 🧭 This summer, I’m book coaching from my lawn chair. Each Wednesday, I share a new writing tip. I have 7 summer coaching spots open now. Find out more here → lnkd.in/gT-R4J5G #writingcommunity #bookcoaching
In this illustration, a “laptop lawn chair” is standing in the grass. The text reads: “Lawn Chair Coaching: Summer Writing Tips. www.dinahlaprairie.com.” The tip: “Outline without Overwhelm: Think of your outline as a trail map, not a contract. It guides your direction but leaves room for discovery along the way.”
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
The light has shifted. There’s more air, more time, more you. Today, I opened 7 summer coaching spots. Rediscover your book & why it lights you up. ✨ A short-term, high-impact spark to start writing again. 📝 Learn more: bit.ly/summer-spark... #writingcommunity #nonfiction #memoir #bookcoaching
A bright, illustrated sun shines its rays down on this text:
The Summer Spark Writing Plan
Write the book that lights you up
This image accompanies a post about Dinah Laprairie's new book coaching program for summer 2025. Details at this link: https://bit.ly/summer-spark-plan
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
Sometimes it’s worth it to get up before everyone else. …Actually, it always is.
Photograph: We see panes windows in front of us. The right hand window is wide open. Beyond the window are large maples, silhouetted against a sunrise.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 22/06/2025
In summer, the pace shifts. There’s more joy in the air, and more space to think, reflect, and reconnect. ✨ Tuesday, I’m announcing my summer coaching program for writers who want to use this brief season to dig in and write. 7 dates only. #WritingCommunity #BookCoaching #Nonfiction #Memoir
In this illustration, the hot sun of summer is beating down on these words: "Open the Window. Let the breeze in." Below: "What still wants to be written?" At the bottom of the image is an illustration of a book, lying open, with cheery summer flowers growing out of its pages. 
This post introduces the summer offer from nonfiction and memoir book coach Dinah Laprairie. If you have a book idea that needs attention, follow Dinah here for more details. Or, visit bit.ly/summer-spark-plan
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 18/06/2025
In summer, my sunporch becomes my workspace. I scribble & read, watch birds, sip iced tea. In the sunbeams I give my ideas and my mind room to breathe. I have summer book coaching spots just for this season. More details soon, but ask for a sneak peek. #writingcommunity #nonfiction #memoir
At the top of the image is the sun, shining its rays on these words: Sit and dream and write and think. It's summer. Below, we see a book lying open. Out of its pages grow summery, cheery flowers.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 18/06/2025
Before you write a word, open your notebook and answer this: What promise is my book making to the reader? ♦ Hi, I’m Dinah, book coach for everyday experts writing nonfiction or memoir. Each Wednesday this summer, I’m sharing a new writing tip. What's yours? #booksky #nonfiction #writingcommunity
In this graphic, we see a “laptop lawnchair” in the bottom corner, sitting on the grass. The yellows and greens in the image suggest summer, and indeed it is. The text at the top says Lawn Chair Coaching: Summertime writing tips. Credit shown as www.dinahlaprairie.com 

In the centre, we read the tip: Every book makes a promise. What transformation or insight will your reader walk away with? Define this early—it’ll shape everything that follows.

This tip was brought to you by Dinah Laprairie, Book Coach and Editor. I support everyday experts who want to write nonfiction or memoir. Get in touch if you want to write a big-hearted, reader-centered book.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 17/06/2025
A new Readability Review is up. This time I review On Tyranny (Graphic Edition). The interaction of Krug's art + Snyder's text challenged me to think + rethink—and reminded me why I coach writers to write asking "Why now?" 📖 open.substack.com/pub/dinahlap... #BookCoaching #Booksky #BookReview
In this graphic, we see the cover of the book "On Tyranny", the graphic edition by Timothy Snyder and illustrator Nora Krug. Beside the book cover, we see a small illustrated bird pointing its beak towards the text and we read "Readability Review No. 9. Engaging with books, from first glance to final page." We also read: "The Book Case: Books for Readers. www.dinahlaprairie.com" This image promotes a new book review by Dinah Laprairie, book coach and editor, in her newsletter The Book Case.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 11/06/2025
Reader-centered writing starts with a shift in perspective. What does your ideal reader want as they enter your book, and what do they need at that moment? Begin there. ♦ This summer, I’m sharing a new summertime writing tip each Wednesday. Questions? Reach out! #writingcommunity #bookcoaching
In this graphic, we see a “laptop lawnchair” in the bottom corner, sitting on the grass. The yellows and greens suggest summer, and indeed it is. The text at the top says Lawn Chair Coaching: Summertime writing tips. Credit goes to www.dinahlaprairie.com

In the centre, we read the tip: “A great book starts with one question: What does my reader need to understand first?” Start there, and you message will land where it matters.

This tip was brought to you by Dinah Laprairie, Book Coach and Editor. Get in touch if you want to ask about book coaching.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 10/06/2025
AI is a hot topic in writing circles, and I’m weary. Every day, I have to ask: Am I for or against? And then, the noise. So much fear. I created a worksheet for writers who want to make a values-based decision on AI use. Guided prompts, no judgement. bit.ly/reflection-s... #writingcommunity
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 04/06/2025
Writers: You don’t have to be fully ready to begin. ________________ This summer, I’m book coaching from my lawn chair. Each Wednesday, I’m sharing a new summertime writing tip. Here's this week's tip: Start Before You're Ready #writingcommunity #nonfiction #member #fiction
In this graphic, we see a “laptop lawnchair” in the bottom corner, sitting on the grass. The yellows and greens suggest summer, and indeed it is. The text at the top says Lawn Chair Coaching: Summertime writing tips. Credit goes to www.dinahlaprairie.com 

In the centre, we read the tip: Clarity comes from action. You don’t have to figure everything out before writing. Start sketching scenes, arguments, or anecdotes. Start messy. What’s a lazy summer afternoon for, after all?

This tip was brought to you by Dinah Laprairie, Book Coach and Editor. Get in touch if you want to ask about book coaching.
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 04/06/2025
The Stranger Diaries by Elly Griffiths is compulsive reading. Late last night, I forced myself to put down this book and turn off the bedside lamp. I didn’t want to be the last one awake in the house thinking about murdery things…
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Dinah Laprairie @dinahlaprairie.bsky.social · 29/05/2025
Find out more about book coaching in Part 2 of #EditorsWeekly. I’m so pleased to be included here with three other coaches. If you want to know more about book coaching, just ask!
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