I love to write. I remember the third-grade teacher scolding me for having a messy desk. In response, I closed my Trapper Keeper. My great American novel would have to wait.

In sixth grade, I overheard another student receiving praise for her novel. I received no such feedback. Twenty-plus years later, I figured out why. Good stories are more than a collection of words or even ideas. So much goes into writing a great novel.

I’m not there yet, but I’m getting closer every day.