The Daily Port of Call: January 28, 2014

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In today’s Daily Port of Call, discover five differences between professional and amateur novelists, the most important thing for aspiring writers to know, and five lies you tell yourself about writing.

From author Charles Finch, five differences between professional and amateur novelists.

Powells Books sponsors the Tenth Annual Tournament of Books. You can participate in the pre-tournament Zombie Poll.

Watch excerpts from an interview with John Updike on writing, including the most important thing for aspiring writers to know.

Writing tips from 2014 Newbery Award winning author Kate DiCamillo.

Here are five lies you might tell yourself about writing. We would add a sixth: There isn’t enough time. We’ve got you covered here.

Literary friendships run deep.