Jill Darling, a writer from Warren Center, Pennsylvania, is one of a dozen writers featured in a newly released book by Dr. Michael Ray Smith, a journalism professor and Mass Communication Chair at Campbell University, North Carolina.  In the book, FeatureWriting.Net, Darling gives tips for readers based on a piece that was published in a local newspaper, which is also included.

 Three years ago, Darling attended the Montrose Christian Writers' Conference, in Montrose, Pennsylvania., and took a series of journalism classes conducted by Smith. 

 "I gleaned from Smith's expertise when he conducted classes at the conference and it's great to finally have all of his helpful tips contained in one volume," Darling said. "I've freelanced for newspapers and magazines such as Country Extra, Pennsylvania Magazine and Grit and Smith's advice, particularly the importance of deriving quotes from different sources, has enhanced the quality of my pieces." 

 As a seasoned reporter himself, Smith takes the reader on the insider beat as if he were putting his arm around you, coaching you every step of way, according to Darling. His teaching gift is evident as he offers his own reporting secrets in colorful detail about what works and what doesn't, she adds.

 He delves into the nuts and bolts of feature writing: selling the story, interviewing, using the Internet for research and mastering the lead. As an award-winning photojournalist, he explains how to take quality photographs that enhance stories and double paychecks. Smith hammers out numerous timeless feature article ideas using a SHOP format: Selection, History, Observation and Perspective. These proven techniques get his journalism students bylines in newspapers and magazines long before graduation, Darling noted.

 "FeatureWriting.Net is a must-have handbook for both new and experienced writers from journalism students, freelance writers, and anyone interested in penning feature articles," Darling said.  She believes that skillful writers using Smith's techniques will get bylines-"guaranteed!"

 For information about Dr. Michael Ray Smith and his book go to www.featurewriting.net or purchase the book at www.Amazon.com.