The Ethics of Ghostwriting: Does It Matter Who Actually Wrote a Book?

By Randy Alcorn February 3, 2020

Years ago, I wrote a critique of the practice of ghostwriting in Christian publishing, which put me in multiple difficult discussions with publishers and ghostwriters alike. I also joined several dozen other Christian writers in signing a letter to our publishers expressing our ethical objections to ghostwriting.

What About Capitalizing Pronouns Referring to God?

By Randy Alcorn April 26, 2019

I’ve been asked by readers over the years, “Why don’t you capitalize the pronouns referring to God in your books?”

How I Appeared to Plagiarize C. S. Lewis, and What Pascal Never Said

By Randy Alcorn December 17, 2018

Plagiarism is definitely a problem—sadly, even within parts of the Christian community. However, the talk about the serious sin of plagiarism has helped cultivate a suspicion that’s sometimes unhealthy. The following incident illustrates how easily an unintentional mistake can happen in the process of writing a book.

What About Authors Using Pen Names?

By Randy Alcorn May 28, 2018

Over the years I’ve been asked my opinion about authors using pen names. My concern would be in two areas: intent and effect. 

A Challenge for American Believers to Remember and Write for the Rest of the World, Too

By Randy Alcorn March 9, 2018

We don’t have to feel badly about writing specifically to people who live in places and situations similar to us, but there is power in focusing on God’s Word and writing about how it applies to our lives, regardless of where and how we live.

My Writing Process, Advice for Aspiring Authors, and Answers to Other Questions about Writing

By Randy Alcorn January 15, 2018

If God’s Word is daily at home in your heart and mind, your writing will take on a perspective, and an air of solidity and permanence it won’t have otherwise. 

When It Is and Isn’t Plagiarism

By Randy Alcorn September 19, 2016

From time to time, I’m reminded of how common it is for people to believe a writer or speaker stole his or her material. Sometimes material is indeed used word for word without crediting the source, and this is unethical. But other times, people assume an idea or material has been stolen when it isn't the case.

When Is a Book Really Finished Being Written?

By Randy Alcorn April 1, 2016

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned over the years about writing (and rewriting) is that it’s hard work. It’s energizing and draining, something I love to do and hate to do, something that’s never done because I can always continue to improve on it, but eventually I have to turn it in. 

Why I Write Big, Small and Medium-sized Books

By Randy Alcorn November 23, 2015

Why write different sized books on one subject? Because they’re designed to reach different audiences with varying interests and preferences. It’s my joy and privilege to write different books on different subjects for different people, meeting different needs.

The Life-Long Process of Mastering Your Writing Skills

By Randy Alcorn August 7, 2015

Anything that’s easy to read is usually hard to write. What’s easy to write is hard to read. I heard one author say, “Writing is like giving birth to barbed wire.” Writing is 5% inspiration and 95% perspiration.