I'm Writing A Novel

As a follow-up to my last post, I sent my story, grimacing all the way. Re-reading it 15 years later, I found flaws and holes. I questioned every incomplete scene. I winced at the painfully cliche language and at the improbability of the talking camel. Yes, there is a talking camel in it. Correction. There was a talking camel in it. I don't think I'll include him in my new rendition of the story.
She was good to me, this author, and highlighted the parts that I could use as stepping stones to building a "compelling novel." So here I go. I have set a timeline that I think is reasonable. This summer I am going to do as much research as I can to build credibility with my reader (pre/early teens). That's my first step. I have very little idea of how to do this!
I am doing it. I'm writing a novel, for heaven's sake. And it's about damn time.