region statistics - Thu Jan 10 00:19:26 2013
#participants | 100 |
mean | 46350.22 |
standard deviation | 32307.53 |
minimum | 0.00 |
maximum | 201228.00 |
median | 50413.50 |
50k on plan | 16670.00 |
Last updated: Thursday, 10-Jan-2013 00:19:27 PST
![My name is Amy. I'm writing Hidden. So far I am behind with Nano but plan on putting in some 4000 word days to catch up. I love Nov and Nano. It's a great way to get motivated and excited about writing. As for the ending... we will just have to wait and see. Jade is . . . changing. Amy33](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
Amy33Oswego, IL
joined October 28, 2011
7 posts
![Parent | Context I love the title! It's catchy! Anobi](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/94098/thumb.jpg?1320125765)
AnobiIllinois
joined October 22, 2010
45 posts
![Skintight Spacesuits is the story of Richard Clemens, one victim of a tyrannical regime who resorts to industrial espionage to prevent his oppressors from possessing a new weapon, a potential star killer . In so doing he finds himself in possession of something entirely new, something for which there is no known precedent. Richard must discover how to use this new technology, to save his own life, to govern himself with the use of it, for not only could he die, but he could ruin human civilization itself...for all time.Here are just some of the characters so far. There will be many more.Richard Clemens- Conflicted heroBetty Luminous - Heroine, A.I., namesake of former Star Lines cruise shipCaptain James- Former captain of the destroyed Star Lines cruise ship Betty Luminous, Knight of the First Order, Sole Proprietor of Star Lines LLC.Veronica Marbella- actress, adventurer, lover.The Science Directorate- bad guysThe Crown- a multi-solar system empire that exists inside the corona of a massive gaseous cloud of H2O.King Henry- The first monarch of The Crown to rule by heredity. Reputed to be the herald of a golden age.Franco DeJacimo- genius Solon the Black- Richards worst nightmare Antivard](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
AntivardNaperville, Illinois USA
joined October 30, 2012
1 posts
![1. Another romance... Caroline Goodell, a young woman in Victorian America, is suddenly widowed when her husband is reported lost at sea. Refusing to give up without a fight, Caroline books passage on the only ship that will take her: Her brother-in-law's. He may be a privateer and a blockade runner, but he's the only person who believes that her husband might still be alive.2. NOPE. It's a surprise, you'll have to read it. ;) Caroline finds many reasons to have her marriage annulled and she's quite happy with life at sea. 3. Just keep writing. Asreena](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
AsreenaChicago, IL
joined November 3, 2008
1 posts
![Parent | Context My title is (since I forgot to add it):The Life (both real and imagined) of Abigail Anne Mills(whew. that's a mouthful) CD0189](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/194415/thumb.jpg?1349764368)
CD0189Leander, TX
joined October 29, 2010
180 posts
![Parent | Context The Blue Fox by Carol Gaus1. Long long ago in a land far away, the people killed all the blue foxes. Our heroine inherits a cape made from the pelts of the last blue foxes that makes the wearer invisible at night to go about the countryside doing good. The local people think the Gods are against them but have really caused all their problems themselves.2. This is supposed to be a tongue in cheek fantasy novel. The heroine eventually passes on the cape and leaves with the love of her life to pioneer in another, hopefully less idiotic country.3. Like the cartoon of the the frog strangling the stork that is swallowing him, never, never, give up. Just keep writing. CJEGV](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
CJEGVElk Grove Village Illinois
joined November 2, 2010
29 posts
![1. Gambler Slim Holloway may use his gift of seeing what other people are holding as a foolproof way to win at cards, but he doesn't mean any harm by it. Unfortunately, other folks don't always see it that way, and when he runs afoul of a big man in a small town, his saviors turn out to be the denizens of a magical medicine show. He can only repay them by examining his behavior and becoming a better person.2. Everything will look darkest just before the dawn, but then Slim will come through.3. Like Tim said: Participate in write-ins and jabber chats so that you have the support and encouragement of your fellow writers working to help you achieve success. And if you let everybody know you're writing, you just might be embarrassed to admit later that you gave up. Cee-Bee](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/130927/thumb.jpg?1319027825)
Cee-BeeChicago Western Suburbs
joined September 30, 2010
42 posts
![The Olive-Lotus War : A re-envisioning of a story I wrote longer ago than I like to think about.1) Annoyed by centuries of being ignored, the ancient Gods leave Earth and human-kind. After meeting up who knows how many years later, the Egyptian and Grecian Gods decide to amuse themselves, they're going to create a shell of the world as they once knew it to control until they're tired of it: Or is it a shell? Cue ridiculous star crossed love story between an Egyptian High Priest and a Grecian General who may not even exist at all.2) Oh, there will be blood...And a joke ending before the real one that still makes me laugh harder than it should.3) Budget your time. If you know you have more time to write one day, get as much work as you can then. If you know you're going to be busy (You know, studying for finals...), plan ahead and build yourself a buffer for your word count if you can! CyndraShadix](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/220910/thumb.jpg?1351920690)
CyndraShadixNorth Central College <3
joined November 2, 2009
4 posts
!['It Wasn't Abandoned' 1) Five old friends reunite, renting a cabin. The webwork of relationships is complex and they manage. Meanwhile, the house consumes them one-by-one. 2) The hero burns the house down as he watches his best friend be sucked into the wood. 3) Don't waste time and creative energy talking about your story. Eddie Poe](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/1049179/thumb.jpg?1352773428)
Eddie PoeWheaton. IL
joined November 3, 2012
5 posts
![Parent | Context Untitled 1. Fanfiction based on the 1986 movie 'Labyrinth'. Sarah moved on with her life after her journey through the Labyrinth, until the zombie apocalypse started. Now she's struggling for survival with her little brother and torn between two terrifying worlds, the Underground with it's menacing Goblin King, and the aboveground that has been swallowed up by swarms of undead and other dark creatures. Will she choose to run away to her fantasy land or will she fight for what's left of the mortal world?2. Toby's gonna get bit, and sent to the Labyrinth in a last ditch attempt to save him. Sarah will discover the source of the undead menace, a plot to rule over all the realms, and she and Jareth will stop it...somehow. She may or may not go back underground with him afterword. Haven't decided.3. Join the chats and do those word wars! Talk with your writing buddies and encourage each other. Remember, it's only 1666 words a day. Get it out, even if it seems like gibberish. AND DON'T GO BACK AND REREAD AND EDIT! IT WILL BE YOUR DOWNFALL!!!!! Gaeliceyes](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/204843/thumb.jpg?1320116203)
GaeliceyesDowners Grove, IL
joined July 28, 2008
18 posts
![Parent | Context Hi! Tried before but it didn't post so sorry if I duplicate! Excited that Nov 1 is almost here. Life has been a great adventure as of late, and I look forward to stealing time to get my NaNo going again! I'm still debating on specifics of my writing for this year, but it will be about a bit of an adventure. My advice - have fun! This is a celebrated escape from reality, enjoy it! Make time to write and you'll get there. Lastly, DO NOT EDIT! Hope to see you all at a write-in! HarvestSparkle](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/371595/thumb.jpg?1322519541)
HarvestSparkleOutside of Chicago, IL, USA
joined October 9, 2011
24 posts
![My novel mimics real life.It's a about a Muslim family who has to move across The US to another State with their Jr High School aged daughter (and stepdaughter-blended family) It's about miscommunication, misunderstandings, secrets, sorrow, and joy.2. Thoughts on how it will end...hmmm I'm not sure yet. It could end up with a lesson, unsolved or with everyone figuring each other out and living in harmony but....I'm inclined to the unhappy ending as well.3. Advice for others...hmm none really this is my first time writing a novel. Especially writing on a time limit. I could use some advice myself HollyAGarza](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
HollyAGarzaCrest Hill/Joliet Illinois
joined November 1, 2012
1 posts
![Give a 1-3 sentence synopsis of your novel1. A young boy who committed suicide becomes a soul reaper, and soon the failings of death itself is falling upon his shoulders as two warring orders threaten to destroy themselves.2. Definitely going the forbidden romance route; I just can't help myself. Boy meets boy in other warring order, brings orders back together. Preferably with lots of blood shed and my concept of demons, which are superpowered entities that just destroy everything in their path, sort of like tornados.3. Write even when you don't want to. Write everywhere. Write always. Attend write-ins. Compete with others. Your word count goes up tremendously when you compete. J.A. Kosse](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
J.A. KosseDowner's Grove, IL
joined August 25, 2008
92 posts
![Parent | Context Being my first to participate in, let's see...1. Long-distance love is put to the test as a crushing government puts pressure on its citizens to conform to its ideals. Can those on the fridges of the struggle still find themselves in the middle? Can love endure despite tribulation?2. I don't have concrete thoughts on how I'd like it to end. I'm not wanting a dark ending, but at the same time, I think optimistic outlooks can be overrated.3. As this is my first, I don't know if I have any advice. I do plan to work on this daily and be as consistent as possible, though. JerenYun](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
JerenYunChicagoland, IL
joined November 1, 2011
5 posts
![1. Murder mystery/police procedural set here in Naperville. 2. How will it end. I have plotted it out through the end but things change as I write the scenes, so we shall see where the 'characters' take it.3. Advice. Write through to the end or you may never get there. JoeNaper](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
JoeNaperNaperville
joined November 16, 2012
1 posts
![I'm not *technically* part of this group because I'm in Iowa City (damn you college), but Naperville's still home for me and I would love to be included. I'm with you guys in spirit!The Pack - Juliette061. In which the world's deadliest pack of werewolves tries to stop a cure for werewolfism.2. Basically the pack gets a good moral kick in the butt and ends up doing the Right Thing; there's some romance too and (almost) everyone lives happily ever after.3. Write ins!!! Word-buddies, word-count contests, have fun with it. Even if you don't write much, write a little every day.I miss you guys agagd :C Juliette06](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
Juliette06Chicagoland, IL and Iowa now
joined September 25, 2010
13 posts
![Parent | Context Not to change the subject, but I tried to NaNo mail you and was told New Mexico Kid wasn't a valid address inside this website. My question is, how do I join these write ins at libraries and other venues if I don't own a laptop? I type fairly fast but write slowly on a legal pad with a pencil. There's no way I could put out 3,000 words that way. If I used a computer in the library, how would I transfer what I've written to what I already have written? Am I out of luck? I could use the company of other writers.I'll take a look back on this site for an answer, I guess.Thanks.Kumugirl Kumugirl](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
KumugirlFreezing in Illinois
joined November 1, 2012
3 posts
![Captain John Happish and his crew are the second group of humans to attempt to solar sail around the sun and back to Mecho Earth. What mysteries will they uncover? Will they meet new intelligent species? Will they find clues to the disappearance of the first group attempting the feat some 300 years previous? Most on board don't think they will or don't want to return to the dying planet Earth, which is only kept alive by the great atomic furnaces and stolen alien technology. Larry72367](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/4171/thumb.jpg?1352678306)
Larry72367Braidwood, Illinois
joined October 7, 2005
2 posts
![478. Now that's more like it. In on the :30~Lost: 06, 07, 08, 10, Camp '12 Won: '09, '11 Current: Percy Weasley and the Prefect's Burden LemonFairy](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/23275/thumb.png?1319678614)
LemonFairyChicago/Oberlin (OH)
joined October 25, 2006
113 posts
![Behind the Makeup - a scifi thriller... maybe?1. Axel came home to find his parents' house in total ruin and his sister dead, her murder set him on his life's course to becoming a geneticist and forensics scientist. In Behind the Makeup he searches for his sister's killer, twenty years later and discovers there was more to her murder than meets the eye. Now he just has to stop the murderer. 2. Axel is awesome and a smart guy. He puts two and two together and figures out the crimes. 3. To not self edit while writing, and once NaNo is over, allow yourself a break and then go back at your story in chunks (chapters) to edit. MMMoreau](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/240114/thumb.jpg?1320164837)
MMMoreauMidwest
joined October 3, 2011
2 posts
![Parent | Context Brian, this sounds like an interesting book! I hope you put some of your quirky humor into it--technical books with humor are always much more fun to read (e.g., Why's Poignant Guide To Ruby, which I recommend everyone read).And maybe you can put in a chase scene or two... :-) NewMexicoKid](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/14398/thumb.png?1318438027)
NewMexicoKidNaperville, Illinois, USA
joined October 31, 2003
904 posts
![1. A young woman is renovating her book store when she falls for the man doing construction on her store. She also falls for an author that she is bringing in for a signing. Unsure who to chose she dates them both as her book store progresses. 2. I'm not 100% sure how it will end but I do see it continuing to a second book. 3. I'm a first timer so I don't really have much advice. PBJ63010](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
PBJ63010IL
joined September 17, 2012
18 posts
![Okayyyy.....1.) A young Star princess goes on an adventure the day before her apprenticeship begins, only to discover her true heritage is not all the honor and glory she expected. She desperately fights this belief until she meets her father. Her mother's people have told her one version of her history, and her father tells her another. Which is real?2.) I kinda have a series planned out for this.......but this one ends with her leading a rebellion against her mother's people and being exiled to our earth-for the next book.3.) I tend to find inspiration in the oddest of places.......which means it pops up everywhere. Take into account your own life. Look at the things you do every day and wonder 'what would this character do? How can I relate the every day to the overall scheme of my story?' Because I know many writers who only look at the big picture. I'm one of those readers that wants to know the character as a person, not as an unreachable hero. Include the little details. It's worth it. My other favorite muse is music in all forms.-Jessi- Phoenixica24](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/1054887/thumb.jpe?1352342443)
Phoenixica24North Aurora, Illinois
joined November 4, 2012
32 posts
![Getting a late start this year, but hope the write-ins will help me catch up! This year's novel has a temporary title of 'Clark and Addison.'Clark's twin sister Addison, wakes up one day to find Clark's ghost in her Kitchen. He enlists her aid in solving his murder. Qberty](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/118341/thumb.png?1319218191)
QbertyNaperville, IL
joined November 4, 2010
41 posts
![1. Recently divorced, Tamsyn decides she needs to get away for awhile, to figure out what's next. She rents a cottage on the Scottish coast, planning to play tourist as well as focus on some creative endeavors. Until he shows up on her doorstep and throws a giant spanner into her plans. (in the past I've done paranormal/fantasy/scifi -- I've decided to completely change things up by doing romance this year)2. Not entirely sure how it will end -- vacillating between 'happily for now' and 'happily ever after'.3. a. The one year I actually won was the year I got most of it planned and plotted out before even beginning to write. Things did change during the course of the actual writing, but starting it out with some guidelines was very beneficial to me. b. Attend write-ins if at all possible -- it gets you away from home distractions and puts you in an environment where everyone is focusing on the same activity. (This year I'm hoping will be a little easier as I will only have 2 distractors at home for most of the month (2 kids) as hub has moved to Georgia for work and will only be here Thanksgiving week.) RobinM](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/188547/thumb.jpg?1320264961)
RobinMIllinois
joined October 29, 2008
25 posts
![Back again for number nine.Like a Soldier in the Rain, this novel seems to be about life on a military base when there is no war to fight. In this instance, the base in on L59 a planet fifty light years from earth, but the situation is the same for a couple of entrepreneurial hard cases, non-commissioned officers who find they are stationed on an alien world that is drier than Georgia on Sunday morning; with nothing to trade, nothing to sell, and nothing to drink. For these enterprising soldier-businessmen, the solution is clear; in a civil war there is profit, and to the conqueror go the spoils. In this case a warehouse of grain, a pressure cooker, and a length of copper tubing.Good luck to all.Roger Roger Lubeck](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/6323/thumb.jpg?1318513298)
Roger LubeckSugar Grove, Illinois
joined November 23, 2004
8 posts
![I guess I do have some advice for everyone - save your work frequently and keep all four month old kittens away from your laptop! No harm done - except for a slight heart attack on my part! RoseCat](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
RoseCatPlainfield, IL
joined November 1, 2012
6 posts
![The graph seems to have caught a case of the wonk. It was displaying everyone earlier, now it's only displaying a few people! Sapphire](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/14598/thumb.png?1321772287)
SapphireDowners Grove, IL
joined October 28, 2003
119 posts
![Parent | Context Katherine and Sarah (writing student) are ridiculous. Ridiculous. Squiddish](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/66077/thumb.png?1318531502)
SquiddishChicago, Illinois
joined October 12, 2008
293 posts
![1. A toddler is kidnapped outside her home while in the care of her Mother.2. The toddler's traveling, control freak Father leads a dual life.3. What lies in store for this seeminly doomed family? I hope I find out soon!Best advice? I like to get ideas from 'trolling' websites, googling catch phrases, watching TV programs I don't typically watch, and asking people 'what would you do if...'. It's kind of fun research.I hope this is a good sign, I did 2012 words today! Maybe that will bring me luck, maybe it will bring everyone luck. I'm new to Nano, so I wasn't sure where to post this and figured this was as good of a place as any. Good luck to everyone!Suenor Suenor](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/881924/thumb.jpg?1351279156)
SuenorNaperville
joined October 9, 2012
6 posts
![Parent | Context Congratulations! TRRDEDEAN](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/19308/thumb.jpg?1320105167)
TRRDEDEANSandwich, IL
joined November 2, 2006
105 posts
![Parent | Context Brilliant. I love it. :DFigment: Twist, the dive-bombing leopard gecko ThePiratess](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/3804/thumb.jpg?1350232314)
ThePiratessWest Chicago, IL
joined October 9, 2005
239 posts
![1. In a world of heroes and villains, everyone is a player, but the game's a racket and the only real winner is the media. When professional Damsel in Distress Ashton Monroe decides to overthrow the system and become an unlicensed vigilante, she creates a ripple effect. After ten years in prison, villain Rapscallion becomes a major player again by learning all he can about the new system and uses it to his advantage. New heroine Sofia Ross-King grows tired of the image her agent has created for her as The Blonde Bombshell and tries to test the envelope a little. Reporter Sam Barnes wonders if the heroes are really as good as they appear on screen and starts to do a little digging.2. This novel is a continuation of my short story The Damsel. I previously didn't have any plans of writing more for Ashton, but the world I had created was too fun to keep me away. That said, I have no idea where this is going at the moment.3. Go to the write-ins! Write a little everyday, even if you can't write the full 1667. Encourage others! I made it my project to keep a few others encouraged last year and in doing so kept myself fired up to write more. TypesetJez](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/26315/thumb.png?1351298644)
TypesetJezSt. Charles, MO
joined October 15, 2006
62 posts
![1. Amnesiac werewolf named Cain finds himself learning the ropes from a sadistic woman, and getting reacquainted with his family while coping with becoming a supernatural being. 2. When he his family's estate is attacked by a rogue werewolf, he gets help from an unexpected place.3. If you get stuck, walk away for a day - turn it off and come back to it, even though you have a deadline too much plot obsessing can hinder your progress. YeungJeans](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/965331/thumb.png?1353105200)
YeungJeansNorthwest Illinois
joined October 27, 2012
24 posts
![This year's novel is about a 30-ish widow who inherits a closed-down, dusty old chocolate shop from her great grandmother in Chicago. Stella, the main character, decides to make a go of the business. But once she opens up, weird things start happening...The novel will have an uplifting ending. The one I wrote last year was kind of dark, so this will be something different.This is my 4th time participating in NNWM. I attempted in 2009, then completed in 2010 and 2011. So hopefully this will be my third novel. :) Looking good so far after a productive first weekend.I like stories with strong central female characters who overcome obstacles and 'find themselves' in mid-life. My novels usually have a whisper of the paranormal - or the suggestion of something unreal. It's fun to push reality just a bit.Advice to new novelists: Use an outline. Try 15-20 bullet points that describe the story. Then write to the outline, but allow yourself freedom to roam during the process. As for discipline/scheduling, carve out 2-3 hours per day for writing. Get up early or stay up late if you have to. Do not burn any time editing. If you need to, make parenthetical notes to yourself in the manuscript like '(need to rework this paragraph later)' or '(check chronology)' if things aren't in order. The best part: it will feel AMAZING when you reach your goal! adavaughan](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/192090/thumb.jpg?1351785350)
adavaughannear Chicago, IL, USA
joined November 2, 2009
1 posts
![I have FINALLY moved from being in the red this entire time (starting 5 days late in this) to now being in the white, being only 600 words behind being in the green! My husband and I are on a road trip today, and I managed to crank out 4,200 words on the drive. Thank everyone for the posts I have red to keep me going in this. Just yesterday I was about to throw my computer against the wall, and the very next day I write over double what my goal was. Now I got over my hump, am in a deep valley, and know I will probably hit my mountain soon... well darn it, hopefully I can get over that one too! ashesonfire](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/1057818/thumb.jpg?1352477123)
ashesonfireJoliet, Illinois
joined November 4, 2012
13 posts
![The novel I am on is actually the second in a trilogy. The story picks off where 'Beginning of the End, Book 1 in The 12th Dimension, leaves off. Check out the book on Amazon after you finish writing all your novels and winning here in November!The book centers around Zedra, an emotionless boy who grew up believing 'you must be more brutal than your enemies if want to survive', and who is more than capable in acting out that mantra; Felan, a brilliant young genius who's Grandfather was framed for treason and put to death leaving her an orphan and filled with a burning desire for revenge; Megan, the once leader of an orphanage of over 20,000 kids who escaped and is now on the run, living with homeless people and even an assassin all in an effort to find Zedra, the boy she fell madly in love with; and Dr. Flint, the head of medical technology for the Empire who is faced with a horrifying truth. The technology developed which allows man to manipulate common devices with his thoughts alone, and is on the verge of even altering the laws of physics is causing illness to spread throughout all humans in the Empire. The disease is unlike any known and is spreading exponentially and he must find a cure without alerting the public to the horror that could befall them all. With scientists in all fields helping he must complete this cure in two years before the disease and certain mass hysteria which would come with it wiped out 500 billion lives. Follow Zedra and Megan and Felan and Dr. Flint as they all strive to achieve their goals as the Empire begins to collapse all around them.2. Felan is the greatest theoretical physicist left in the Empire after her Grandfather was murdered and she discovers the reason for the illness. But Dr. Flint has lost hope as the insanity and madness overwhelm his team and nearly every colony and planet within the Empire far more quickly than he planned. People must abandon technology, sending their lifestyle back centuries while having to fight off the sick and insane even as they too lose their minds. Felan must perform the most radical manipulations ever done in order to save them all. For the illness is nothing simple, but in fact the result of the very fabric of the universe becoming distorted and slowly collapsing. But I won't tell you why its collapsing or even what she has to do. After all there will be a third book and I can't spoil all the fun ;)3. The biggest tip is to never, NEVER, no matter how much your inner editor tells you to, no matter how much that sentence or piece of dialog bothers you; do not use your up arrow on the keyboard. That's right, it's that simple. Always progress. If you are moving down the page you will eventually WIN, you will finish 50,000 words and more. Put a piece of tape on the up arrow and NEVER touch it. Not until December. brosenb2](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
brosenb2Carol Stream
joined November 3, 2012
1 posts
![Parent | Context So I sat down and started Nano officially today and already caught up; that's apparently at least how much I already had just swimming around my head of thoughts on game development and downloadable media, just itching to come out. Didn't even require much structure, just had to open the floodgate. By the way, for the first time in six years I'm not technically doing a novel; still a book, but not a novel.I'm still not sure there's enough thoughts on these topics in me to reach 50k easily, but I can think of enough subjects already to get me to 30k at least pretty easily.A lot of what I covered today was a rough overview of the process of creating the game from start to finish on the publisher's side. There's some information on this out on the internet or in books, but there's several things I've picked up that I doubt those other book covers, because the ones I've skimmed have been mostly clinical, trying to be a 'one size fits all', and I'm speaking from my personal experiences, over several companies and numerous projects, where many different approaches have been tried, but no 'formula for success' has emerged; just a bunch of things to look out or consider when deciding what to do with a given decision on your project.And I haven't even gotten into the 'So you want to get into the game industry and/or make a game? Here's some advice' part yet.How will it end? There's a book on game design by Chris Crawford where in the second half he goes through his projects one by one and reflects on some of the decisions he made when making those games. I thought it was very valuable and interesting to read and will try doing the same to see what useful ideas might be generated by that reflection.Advice to others: If there's something you've done a lot in your life, maybe try incorporating that into your novel. It might be a lot easier for you to write, and you probably have some insights that other people either don't know or haven't shared with the public. cableshaft](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/1910/thumb.jpg?1320121145)
cableshaftNaperville, IL
joined October 21, 2005
53 posts
![1. The story of a family with three daughters in rural New York, and what happens after the oldest daughter disappears.2. It will have an ending. Whether it's considered happy or sad is something else.3. Don't have children. (The last time I finished 50,000 words was the year before my son was born.) calliaume](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
calliaumeNaperville, Illinois
joined October 19, 2006
1 posts
![1. Elaine did not expect music college to be easy, but she was not anticipating any problems other then grades, love, jobs post-degree, and explaining to her parents how her rent money may or may not have been spent on whiskey. When she and her friends discover the pit in the large concert hall of her school descends into a special level of hell led by Schoenberg for musicians who play scales out of tune and concert attendees who clap between movements, they have to figure out a way to prevent Schoenberg from breaking out and taking over Chicago.2. There is an epic battle between two major concert halls on Michigan ave- one performing Beethoven 9th symphony and one performing a new opera by dead Schoenberg. The magic behind music explodes and only on performance can ring clear. Elaine and her friends learn about themselves and their place in the world.3. Write. Schedule your time and make sure you have time to write. Shower when you have writers block. catatone1](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/43867/thumb.jpg?1319086799)
catatone1Illinois
joined October 2, 2007
57 posts
![Pretty sure I'm not going to make it to 50,000 this year but that's ok. I'm just adding to my first NaNoWriMo book written two years ago. I decided not to tackle a new book as I'm finally getting paid to write for an online website and most of my writing time is going to that. Good luck to all the newbies! NaNoWriMo was such a life-changing experience for me. I hope it is for you too!!! ctnigg](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
ctniggNaperville, Illinois
joined October 16, 2010
7 posts
![Parent | Context I just started my novel King of Exiles today (I was away in Boston from the 1st to the 6th and had no computer at the time).1. In an alternate 18th century North America a shy son of a local aristocrat finds himself taken as a hostage by the Roman Imperial government to guarantee the loyalty of his upwardly mobile father. Forced to live in a city of exiles in the heart of a depopulated and backward region of Greece, he slowly comes to accept his lot and the loss of his family and home.2. In the end he becomes King of Exiles, an annual post held by senior members of the community, and fakes his own death to escape into the world and perhaps to return.3. This is my first NaNo and I wish I had begun on time instead of a little late like this. I intend to press onward and see this through to the end of the month, and hopefully beyond. domitius](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
domitiusNorth Aurora, Illinois
joined October 15, 2012
4 posts
![1. 'Imprint': Mira is a lost soul in a world where everything is mapped out for your life's Cycle. As she digs deeper into her own path, she discovers that other around her feel out of sync too. Mira and friends risk it all to find out who they're destined to be and how they can reclaim their own lives.2. Mira finds out she is destined to bring down the corrupt system that has been falsifying people's Blueprints for their own power and gain. 3. Write. And write again. And again. Even if you think it's crap or it's not going to make the final cut, just write. Get the whole picture out onto paper and decide after NaNo where to trim away the excess. Even if what you're writing doesn't make the final cut, you'll get to know your characters and their motivations better. emmeinde](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/238624/thumb.jpg?1351745139)
emmeindeElk Grove Village, IL
joined October 17, 2010
58 posts
![1. a boy loses his mother and his family is not able to deal with it. He runs to the library to read to escape in books and finds himself in a secret library that houses the stories of everyone, and is given the opportunity to bring his mother back to life, but to do it he will have to help evil.2.In the end Seth (the main character) will do what his mother would be proud of and stand up to evil and not help it,3. Take 5-10 minutes a day to plan what you will write that day. It helps the words to flow if you know the path you need to take for that session. It is time invested not wasted. fdahlman](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/167188/thumb.png?1350392868)
fdahlmanLombard, Illinois
joined October 19, 2008
4 posts
![Parent | Context 1. This will be book 7 in a series of time travel novels involving a team of Travelers now led by Ruthie McDonald Terwilliger. She and her daughter, Miranda Han, are trying to defeat the Family, their descendants from the future who use their abilities to rule the world centuries from now.2. Hell if I know.3. Don't give up if you fall behind. I was thousands of words behind schedule last year and I still was able to make the final push in the last week and top 50,000. horatio](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/21822/thumb.jpg?1320189993)
horatioBolingbrook, IL
joined October 30, 2006
4 posts
![1. The former protagonist of a post-apocalyptic young adult novel is forced to reconcile the two halves of her life when a particularly bad winter (punctuated by zombie werewolf attacks) puts her old family and her new one in uncomfortably close quarters.2. Amber makes peace with her past and the choices she didn't make; probably more than one person is eaten by zombie werewolves.3. @nanowordsprints and leftover Halloween candy. Word sprint, piece of candy. Repeat until 50,000 words and diet completely ruined. (Don't worry, it's the holiday season anyway.) jen.e.moore](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/232236/thumb.png?1351043345)
jen.e.mooreNaperville, IL
joined September 30, 2011
16 posts
![Hey all.1. My story is a detective novel set in Chicago. I am going to attempt to write a loose imitation of Robert B. Parker, at least as far as voice goes.2. I think I know how my novel is going to end, although I am not sure if I can make it work, or the specifics of it.3. I have no idea- this is my first time!Good luck all! mikemankoff](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
mikemankoffRomeoville, Il
joined December 8, 2011
4 posts
![Parent | Context A Dreary Whimsy 1) A teenage ghost (Iker) reminisces about his friendship with a quirky young artist, who is sent to live with her dysfunctional family, who she's never meet before. 2) My main character goes through trial and tribulations, but in the end, the outcome is positive, but not a happily ever after ending. Her best friend dies trying to protect her. 3) Keep writing and listen to the voices inside your head - it's usually the dialogue that the character's want you to write down. mochomito](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/933676/thumb.jpg?1351570812)
mochomitoChicago
joined October 21, 2012
16 posts
![The Lilith ResetIgnored by mainstream science as an insignificant risk, the Sonic Comet subjects Earth to 30 days of vibrations deadly to the brain cells of primates. Unless you are under ground or underwater for the entire time your brain is microwaved from the slightest exposure.Predicted 25 years before its arrival by a young graduate student from a second tier college in the Midwest, the Sonic Comet hypothesis is dismissed by all except a Department of Defense planning group. They use their meager funding to develop a plan to insure the survival of the American experiment by getting Breeding Age Females on-board US Navy submarines and in US Air Force Missle Silos under the guise of equal rights. They succeed with only a few years to spare. Right Wing politicians rail against the move in public but are supportive in private because they fear a renewed superpower conflict with China. The Re-population Plan is imbedded deep within post-nuke protocols, to be revealed only after the Extinction Level Event occurs via a 'dead man' switch at the Pentagon.Less than 1/4 of 1% of the world population survives the comet's passage. Eighteen US Navy submarines and eight US Air Force silos find themselves alone on the Continent. Or are they? Less than 160 American women must decide if and how they can re-populate the nation. All my books have happy endings; I expect this one will close on the 100th Anniversary of Death DayThe best advice I can give is to keep writing. If you write yourself into a corner switch viewpoints for a chapter until you figure a way out or over the corner. mongrelvw](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
mongrelvwWinfield Illinois
joined October 12, 2008
3 posts
![Hi everyone. I know I'm late adding myself to the regional graph, but better late than never, right?1. My novel is a YA book. Adam, a bullied, closeted gay teen on the verge of suicide is 'rescued' by Angel, a slightly older boy with a vastly different background, who self-appoints himself Adam's protector. Adam and Angel overcome obstacles build a close friendship that verges on love without ever quite crossing the line, even in secret. Then the confused and frustrated Adam meets another boy who’s interested in more than friendship and has to make difficult choices that may impact more than just his relationship with Angel.2. The book will have a happy ending. Adam will reconcile his conflicting priorities and will finally stop hiding who he is. He will leave the restrictive and confining atmosphere of his family home to live openly with the boy he loves. 3. Meet up with people at write-ins so that November doesn't turn into a very solitary month. (Unfortunately, due to lack of time, I have been very bad at following this piece of my own advice.) Find as many writing buddies as possible, preferably ones who write faster than you and keep pushing you towards the goal!As of this morning I've fallen a little behind on my word count, and with the holiday ahead I'm terrified that this year I won't make it over the finish line, so wish me luck! Happy writing!Liz nowhereliz](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
nowherelizNW Chicago Suburbs
joined October 11, 2010
2 posts
![A widowed confederate soldier in post civil war tennessee is faced with rebuilding his life, his land, and is unexpectedly put in charge of his young niece that he never knew existed.The unlikely pair head west to find the girl's mother. Not sure if they will succeed yet.Reach your 1,667 words/day no matter how hard it is. Some days will be easier than others. Dont' worry if you don't know where your story is going, and don't worry if the story takes you away from your 'plan'. Some of the best things happen when you go in unexpected directions. pmbutler](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/85940/thumb.jpg?1349208400)
pmbutlerNaperville, IL
joined September 1, 2010
14 posts
![BarnYard Heroes VI: A Pig's Tale1) As the BarnYard Heroes go their separate ways, the pig finds work as a double agent infiltrating a crime syndicate which has taken over the continent of Africa. Is ruling the newly formed United States of Africa enough for Emperor Dan Vincent or will his lust for power only be satisfied by lording over the entire world? The pig will need to rely on his detective skills instead of his super strength if he is to discover the Emperor’s true intentions and save the world from certain doom.2) I'm not entirely sure how the novel will end, but that's the beauty of NanoWriMo. We'll see where the story leads me.3) While you're busy with the month's other commitments, like driving to work or doing the dishes, think about the next scene you plan to write. Plot it out in your head, so when you have the time to write you'll have a good idea of what to write. And try to write at least a little bit every day. Even just a couple hundred words helps to keep you on track. samcadams](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/151845/thumb.jpg?1351829469)
samcadamsLombard, IL
joined October 7, 2009
5 posts
![1) Two members of a paranormal investigation team have conflicts, probably fall in love at some point, discover an actual mystery and have their respective skepticism and strong beliefs challenged.2) How will it end? I think there's a fair chance not all the members of the team survive this month.3) Consider the daily 1667 a minimum goal and sneak in extra words the way you sneak in extra dollars to your savings account so it builds up faster than you even realize! sari_anne](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/196784/thumb.jpg?1319951079)
sari_anneAurora
joined October 27, 2009
14 posts
![Parent | Context I'm in Texas and they let me hang around here. Make it your home region, and I'll never tell! LOL scrapacat](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/98099/thumb.jpg?1320802597)
scrapacatLongview, Texas
joined November 1, 2010
79 posts
![1. Gillian takes a new job in a new city. She is desperately trying to keep her life organized but as she learns the stories of the people around her, she realizes it is her own story that she is trying to avoid. Attempting to make new friends through a creative writing class at a local college, she is finally forced to face the real story she has to tell: her own.2. Gillian has been running from the truth that her fiance is dead but will manage to find that love is still open to her.3. Best advice: Don't stop writing when you have run out of a train of thought. Rather stop when you are in the middle of something. That way, when you come back to it, you are excited to jump back in and get going. I found that advice from Roald Dahl. skowar](http://d3bhawflmd1fic.cloudfront.net/r-d6c41966/images/avatars/missing_thumb.png?1357776855)
skowarSurrey, England
joined October 2, 2008
9 posts
![Parent | Context I have totally been using your method. A nice pile of candy wrappers after 2000 words. I have 4 kids and have been trying to filch candy evenly and so far no one has noticed. I wonder how long I can keep this up. tireddadx3](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/43426/thumb.jpg?1318363758)
tireddadx3Sugar Grove, Illinois
joined September 17, 2008
24 posts
![1. My story is about atonement, acceptance and redemption. My main character is responsible for the death of his sister’s fiancé and putting her in a wheelchair after a one car drunk driving accident. He spends the length of the story trying to win his sister’s forgiveness through acts of atonement (which don’t work). 2. The ending will have something to do with internal acceptance in the face of never receiving his sisters acceptance. That and a gentle April shower of puppies and daisies if I can’t get the internal acceptance to work. 3. Set daily goals. Listen to your characters and for me - I have to unplug from the normal day in, day out distractions and be selfish with my time! tomster](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/37754/thumb.jpg?1320096116)
tomsterArlington Heights, IL
joined October 4, 2007
8 posts
![Dawns of Destiny1. When a daring young thief named Gavin tries to steal a top-secret new technology, he trades places with a mysterious young girl from another world and sets in motion an ages-old prophecy heralding the rise of a champion destined to save the human race. But no one, not even the promised champion herself, is prepared for what will be required of her along the way.2. Our unnamed champion--named Elexa--will discover more about her true power and learn that it is, in fact, within her ability to control. Gavin will learn he cannot escape the path of his own destiny--that of a champion to another world.3. Best advice. I don't really have any. Just write, then write some more. Forget about eating, sleeping, the outside world, your loved ones. At least for the month of November. :) waking521](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/985587/thumb.jpg?1351629759)
waking521Roselle, IL
joined October 30, 2012
14 posts
![1. A team of former sidekicks/superheroes get back together to fight something. I still have a few more hours to figure out the rest.2. No clue. Probably somebody dies.3. Don't wait until the last minute to outline your story. :P Also, go to write-ins, write every day, and make sure your family/friends know you are trying to write a novel in a month so they know you don't have as much time to hang out as you usually do. ziplizard](http://files.nanowrimo.org/avatars/166931/thumb.jpg?1318357041)
ziplizardWheaton, Illinois
joined October 26, 2009
67 posts
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