If you’re a writer, one of the best places to be today would have been watching the Spiritual Writing panel at Portland’s unique Wordstock festival.  I’ve just finished moderating that panel.  The words of wisdom delivered by Publisher Cynthia Black, Editor Jenefer Angell and writer Jessica Maxwell cross genres.

In a challenged economy, demand for spiritual books is growing.  The trick for writers of spiritual work is to make their words universal, so readers have a solid take-away for their own lives.  The writer wants to have a great idea, and to know the intention of the work.

Cynthia and Jenefer emphasized time and again that the writer must be grounded.  It’s close to impossible to promote a book that an author credits God for writing.

As for finding an agent, Jessica said that her agent bailed on her after her adventure book — Roll Around Heaven — turned out to be about a spiritual adventure instead of about fly-fishing.  Then she heard the name “Rita” in her mind, and called this woman she used to know named Rita.  Who became her next agent.  The writing adventure usually has a few more hurdles than that.  That said, Cynthia said a writer doesn’t always need an agent.

Be sure, Cynthia said, that your work has passion, drive and clarity.  Which is perfect advice for every genre.

Cynthia, Jessica, Jenefer, and Diana