Inspirational fiction is one of the fastest growing genres out there. If you’re a person of faith and feel led to write for the Christian market, you can win over an encouraging fan base and establish yourself for a long, healthy career. But, how does one go about adding inspirational elements? Do you just throw in a few prayers, or is there something more?
There are many thoughts on what Christian writing should be. Overall, the job of the inspirational writer is to present a good story, written from a Christian worldview. The story doesn’t have to be overtly Christian. There doesn’t even have to be a salvation scene. Basically, you ease your reader toward Christ by showing “gentle growth” in the lives of your characters.
The reader can’t feel manipulated by your story.
This would defeat the point, after all. The goal of inspirational fiction is not to preach and though there should be a clear take-away, the message usually doesn’t come across in an over-the-top sort of way. You certainly don’t want to alienate the reader.
You do want to follow the mandate found in the gospel of Matthew (to go into all the world and preach the gospel) but you need to do so in a way that will capture the heart of the reader. Don’t speak “Christianese.” Watch out for Christian clichés, verbiage only used in Christian circles.
Tips for targeting the inspirational market:
Read great Christian books. Get to know the CBA (Christian Bookseller’s Association) by gleaning from those who are already published. What genres are selling best? If you’re not sure, ask your local Christian bookstore owner. He will happily point you toward Christian bestsellers.
Ask yourself, “Why do I write?” or, if you’re not writing yet, “Why do I want to write?” and begin to pray about whether the Lord is asking you to seek publication. If so, begin to “stir up” the gifts He’s placed in you!
Join a local critique group made up of people who write for the inspirational market. Join a national organization like ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). www.americanchristianfictionwriters.com
Go to a conference where inspirational fiction is taught:
Suggested: American Christian Fiction Writers Conference/Nashville (Info at: www.americanchristianfictionwriters.com)
Suggested: Colorado Christian Writers Conference/Estes Park (Info at: www.writehisanswer.com)
Read Marlene Bagnull’s book Write His Answer (www.writehisanswer.com)
