Kathryn Jankowski

Happy Trails

2011-12-01T10:28:00.001-08:00

I suppose it's never easy to end a blog, but the time feels right.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and shared your thoughts. That meant a lot to me.

As the song goes: Happy trails to you, until we meet again.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T15:01:00.001-08:00

Wishing you all the blessings
of the day. Enjoy!

And We're Off!

2011-11-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

With NaNo starting and a trip to the wine country and Thanksgiving, it's going to be a very busy month. Doubt I'll be visiting the web much.

So best wishes to all and I'll see you soon.

Cheers!

Once Upon A Time - Are You Hooked?

2011-10-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, the good stuff first. Robert Carlyle makes a great Rumpelstiltskin/Mr. Gold. The production values are fairly high with decent special effects. The basic plot—storybook characters cursed with amnesia, doomed to a life with no happy endings unless the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming frees them—is intriguing. And it's fun to catch the fairy tale allusions.

Yet the first episode wasn't as compelling as I'd hoped.

Perhaps it's because the back story that explained the curse was filled with hamming, overwrought acting, and weak characterizations. The way the Queen chewed the scenery, I'm surprised there was a shred of tapestry left in the castle. And, please, give me some chemistry between Snow White and her prince, not vapid arguments with dialogue like "I can't believe I'm having this conversation with you again." They're in a fairy tale, not the 21st century.

I liked the way characters were revamped when the story switched to modern times. Mr. Gold was particularly creepy as the man who "owns" Storybrooke, Maine, where the oblivious characters are trapped. Jiminy Cricket as a school counselor is a clever touch, almost too clever.

And the daughter who could be a savior? I get that she's hard-boiled (she escaped the Enchanted Forest before the Queen's curse took effect and her life in the real world was anything but charmed) and her transformation from skeptic to believer has potential. I just hope her character grows in a way that makes me want to care.

Right now, the boy she gave up for adoption has more appeal. He lives in Storybrooke, has grown up reading a book called Once Upon A Time, and believes his real mother is the town's only hope. A bit precocious, but his actions get the ball rolling.

I'm intrigued enough to want to see what happens next, but the acting definitely needs to get ramped up before I'll commit. How about you?

Love Your Body Day!

2011-10-19T17:18:00.000-07:00

It's impossible to avoid them. All those images of airbrushed models, impossibly thin, along with ads for products promising youth and beauty. Well, today I'm inviting you to help me celebrate Love Your Body Day; a day dedicated to accepting what nature gave you and loving it!

Whatever shape you're in, embrace it. There's a reason women's figures are referred to as apples, pears, and bananas. It's 'cause we're juicy and ripe and bursting with natural goodness. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Yes, it's hard to ignore marketing campaigns that urge us to bemoan what we've got and yearn for what we're not. Gone are the days when painters like Rubens celebrated the lushness of female flesh.

But think about what makes you special to family, friends, loved ones. Your looks? Thought not.

So get up and go to the mirror, give yourself a great big kiss, and then hug that wonderful blessing called YOU.

Repeat as needed. ;-)

For more information, go to: http://loveyourbody.nowfoundation.org/about.html

Win A Kindle at Reader Unboxed!

2011-10-18T15:34:00.000-07:00

The brand-spanking new Reader Unboxed, an offshoot of the popular Writer Unboxed, is giving away a Kindle!

Contest closes Sunday October 23 at midnight EST. Head on over and leave a comment. While you're there, check out all the nifty features the site offers. Looks like it'll be golden. Good luck!

http://www.readerunboxed.com/2011/10/wanna-win-a-kindle/

Let's Hear It for the Gals!

2011-10-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

"Because man and woman are the complement of one another, we need woman's thought in national affairs to make a safe and stable government." Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Here in California, we're celebrating the 100th anniversary of women getting the right to vote and I want to give a huge shout out to those brave souls who risked arrest and public censure to give women a voice.

It's easy to forget that so much of what we take for granted today is the direct result of struggles in years past. Consider, in particular, the freedom women writers enjoy. Our words appear in forums big and small, not just specialized publications. We're free to share opinions (political or not), give advice, entertain, critique, teach, persuade, provoke. Quite a difference from the corseted era, yes?

So when you sit down to type your next blog post, take a moment to thank those who paved the way for you to speak out. I think the suffragists would be pleased to see the communities we've created online and off.

NaNoWriMo: Do You Prep?

2011-10-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

Never thought I'd do it, but the time seems right. Still, I'm heeding advice to be prepared. Here's what I plan to have in place before November 1.

Stakes
- public (the big picture, social tragedy)
- private (needs, fears, dreams, duties)

Characters
- a larger-than-life, sympathetic main character
- a devious antagonist
- notes on strengths, weaknesses, self-regard
- a supporting cast that enlivens the story

Plot
- a beginning that sets up a mini-conflict
- small conflicts leading to the major event
- complications/obstacles
- a climax with emotional and action components
- a believable and satisfying resolution
- notes on where back story might be relevant
- notes on potential subplots

Setting
- sights, smells, tastes, sounds the MC will encounter
- psychological effect surroundings have on MC
- cultural nuances

Yikes, that's a lot! I'll confess, some of this is coming from "practice" novels now languishing in my files, but I'm eager to see how I can develop it.

Do you prep for NaNo? Or are you going to wing it?

When Voice Trumps All - The Night Circus

2011-09-28T16:20:00.000-07:00

Though it didn't sweep me away completely, THE NIGHT CIRCUS is a fabulous example of how an author's way with words can keep you intrigued even when you feel the pacing lags.

Morgenstern's writing is especially strong when it comes to imagery. At times, it's almost like reading a director's notes. Just one example:

"After the performance has concluded, the man in the grey suit navigates the crush of patrons in the lobby with ease. He slips through a curtained door leading to the backstage dressing rooms unnoticed. Stagehands and dressers never so much as glance at him. He raps on the door at the end of the hall with the silver tip of his cane."

Morgenstern also does a fabulous job of earning your empathy for characters, like Celia, the magician's daughter:

"Her father brings her everywhere while she is small, parading her like a well-loved small dog in expensive gowns, for his colleagues and acquaintances to fawn over in pubs after performances. When he decides she is too tall to be an adorable accessory, he begins abandoning her in dressing rooms or hotels."

Really, you can turn to just about any page in this book and the voice comes through so strong it nearly takes your breath away. A richly imagined circus, fleshed-out characters, scenes that touch all your senses, everything is imbued with Morgenstern's unique perspective.

Look no further if you want to know what agents mean when they're looking for "voice".

Have you read it yet?

Lips Touch Three Times

2011-09-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

This was my introduction to Laini Taylor and I'm hungering for more!

LIPS TOUCH is three stories loosely connected by the theme of once-in-a-lifetime kisses. Each section begins with a graphic overview of the tale (illustrations by Taylor's husband, Jim Di Bartolo) and then you get the text. Clever idea and it works well.

My favorite was "Goblin Fruit". Right away we're drawn into the life of a sixteen-year-old Kizzy, who bemoans her oddball family:

"They had no TV but knew hundreds of songs—all of them in a language that Kizzy's teachers had never even heard of —and they sat on rickety chairs in the yard and sang them together, their voices as plaintive as wolves', howling at the moon." [Actually, this sound like fun to me!]

As for Kizzy herself: "She daydreamed about having slim ankles like Jenny Glass instead of peasant ankles like the fetlocks of a draft horse. About smooth hair instead of coarse hair, sleek hips instead of belly dancer's hips. About a tinkling laugh, and a butterfly tattoo, and a boy who would tuck his hand into her back jeans pocket while they walked, and press her up against a fence to suck her lower lip like a globe of fruit."

Yeah, I'm hooked. She had me at hair and hips.

Kizzy's yearnings are like crack to goblins and next thing you know one of them shows up at her high school, transformed into a gorgeous boy intent on stealing her soul. Great setup, great tension, great climax.

"Spicy Little Curses Such as These" tells the story of Anamique, a girl in India who lives as a mute because her voice kills, literally, a curse placed on her by a malicious demon. A horrible dilemma made unbearable when a handsome soldier appears. I love the atmosphere Taylor creates, her sly take on the myth of Orpheus, and the wicked twist that leaves the demon a victim of his own curse.

The last story, "Hatchling", didn't enthrall me as much as the others, though Taylor's voice is so strong I had to keep reading to find out the truth about a girl whose left eye turns blue the morning she hears wolves in London.

If you haven't read this and you like your fantasy filled with wit and insight, give it a try!

Curse You, Roget!

2011-09-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

Just returned from a fabulous weekend in San Francisco. Saw the Picasso exhibit at the DeYoung and gleefully cheered on my homeboys as they beat the L.A. Dodgers, 8-1, on Sunday. Go Giants!

Now I'm back to working on another set of revisions for my MG fantasy, based on feedback from a couple of agents who asked for pages, kindly noted some strengths, but ultimately passed for somewhat similar reasons. *sigh* Wondering if this story will end up stashed away in the file cabinet. A practice book, if you will.

I reach for my battered copy of Roget's Thesaurus, seeking an alternative to "sat". It's not listed, but I notice "Satan". Hmmm. My old Catholic nemesis. Intrigued, I find synonyms for the devil (978. a maleficentspirit). A new one attracts my attention: Asmodeus. Loki (Norse myth).

So Jim Carrey was actuallypossessed by the devil in the movie, “The Mask”? And all this time I thought it was just a mischievous spirit. Interesting how they reworked the mythology. I open up a new tab, go to my Netflix account, and add the film to my queue so I can watch it again. Maybe I missedsomething the first time around.

Wait, I'm supposed to be writing! How did I end up searching for a movie?

Anything like this ever happen to you?

Why I Love The Hunger Games

2011-09-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

During my blogcation, I re-read the first book in Suzanne Collins' mega-selling trilogy and was impressed anew, especially since I approached it via the principles in WRITING THE BREAKOUT NOVEL by Donald Maass. (If you do not have this book, buy it now!).

Collins covers all the basics Maass discusses and does it so well you can't help but applaud her virtuosity. Even a rough overview shows Collins has a stellar grasp of what makes a novel work. Let's look at how she does it.

Premise
North America has been replaced by the nation of Panem, which keeps its twelve districts in line by forcing them to send children to participate in a fight to the death on live TV. A big idea that's absolutely chilling—talk about gut emotional appeal!

Stakes
When Katniss Everdeen volunteers to fight in her younger sister's place, she's putting family above personal safety. That's something any reader can relate to. And the personal stakes increase when the actual Games begin. But there are public stakes, as well. If Katniss wins, her district will be feted for an entire year, a huge honor where poverty is the norm.

Characters
Kat's decision to protect her sister immediately endears her to us. We want her to succeed, even as we know she can only do so by killing. Oh, the dilemma! The love triangle? Not as compelling (though I can see its appeal to younger readers), but Collins provides enough depth to Peeta and Gale to help us understand Kat's indecision. Minor characters are fleshed out with personality details that give each even the unlikeable ones substance and individuality.

Plot
Collins has four of the five basic elements:
1. a sympathetic protagonist, one known in detail (see above);
2. a complex conflict (physical, intellectual and emotional issues, all wonderfully intertwined);
3. complications (internal and external twists deepen the story);
4. a climax (Kat and Peeta defy expectations);
What's missing?
5. a resolution (yes, Kat returns home in triumph, but the story doesn't really end).

Theme
Where to start? Loyalty to family, staying true to yourself while engaged in a seemingly hopeless battle, trusting your instincts, etc. Questions about humanity, ruthless governments, and moral integrity abound. This isn't a read-it-and-forget-it story.

Broken down, it looks pretty straightforward. But it takes a writer of Collins' caliber to put all the pieces together in a way that keeps us glued to the story.

So what are we to take away from all this? If your story is coming back with comments concerning a lack of connection, pacing issues, or flat conflict, take a look at how one author met those challenges.

And get Maass' book! Your novel deserves his insights.

Help Save Rick Yancey's MONSTRUMOLOGIST

2011-08-14T19:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know I'm supposed to be off having fun in the sun, but I just heard about Simon & Schuster's decision to stop publishing THE MONSTRUMOLOGIST series by Rick Yancey.

His work isn't for the faint of heart, but he writes first-rate horror that will keep you riveted.

To help, check out the post at Stephanie Reads. You'll be entered in a contest to win a book from the series and doing your bit to support a fellow author: http://stephanieoakes.blogspot.com/2011/08/support-monstrumologist-giveaway.html

Thanks!

See you In September

2011-08-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

The dog days of August are here and I'm taking some long overdue R&R.

See you in September. Or will I? ;-)

Six Ways to Beat BIC Flab

2011-07-26T17:33:00.000-07:00

You've heard the mantra. Hunker down and write the story. Great advice except while you're exercising those little grey cells the rest of you is going slack.

Think not? Flick under your arm. Must be jelly 'cause jam don't shake.

I've learned a few tricks to fight the jiggles, top and bottom. See if any of them work for you.

1. Buy a balance ball and use it as a chair. Works the core while you sit. Open up those thighs. Tighten those buns. Squeeze and bounce.

2. When you're stuck or need a few minutes to reflect, pick up a latex resistance band and stretch: side-to-side, front to back, top-down.

3. Take water breaks. In the kitchen, do push ups against the counter and then shake out your arms and body. Indulge your inner wet dog.

4. Keep small weights nearby. Strengthen biceps and triceps while checking email.

5. Breathe, deeply. Muscles need oxygen.

6. Every page or so, get up and swivel your hips to a sultry song. Imagine Daniel Craig is watching. ;-)

Timeless Tales: The Witch of Blackbird Pond

2011-07-20T09:26:00.000-07:00

With basics taking up a larger portion of income, buying newbooks isn’t always feasible. You can request them at libraries, but theirbudgets are shrinking, too. What’s a reader to do? Easy. Enjoy the classics!

The Witch of BlackbirdPond by Elizabeth George Speare (1959 Newbery Award Winner)

Don’t be fooled by the title. While Speareaddresses 17^th century witch hysteria, this book is basically thestory of a free-spirited girl from Barbados struggling against the constraintsof a Puritan community and finding love.

We meet sixteen-year-old Katherine (Kit) Tyler on a boatnear the Eastern seaboard, a “plain girl with a beautiful smile” talking withNat, the shipmaster’s son—wiry and good-looking, of course. Newly orphaned Kit isthe daughter of a Caribbean plantation owner who’s grown up with personalslaves and arrives unprepared for the hardscrabble life of her aunt’shousehold. Exhausted and furious at being forced to work, Kit thinks she’sfound a way out when a rich merchant’s son comes courting and starts building amansion for her.

But Kit isn’t destined to be a docile companion. Shescandalizes adults with her opinions—young ladies do not talk about politics in 1687—and wreaks havoc at her cousin’sschool with unscripted lessons. Despondentand desperate, Kit finds unexpected relief in the meadows near Blackbird Pond,where she meets and befriends an old woman:

“All at once, with aninstinctive quickening of her senses, Kit knew that she was not alone, thatsomeone was very close. She started up. Only a few feet away a woman wassitting watching her, a very old woman with short-cropped white hair and faded,almost colorless eyes set deep in an incredibly wrinkled face. As Kit stared ather she spoke in a rusty murmuring voice:

“Thee did well, child,to come to the Meadow. There is always a cure here when the heart is troubled.”

When her relationship with the widow Hannah Tupper leads toaccusations of witchcraft and a trial, Kit learns she isn’t as alone as she thought.

I like Kit’s feistiness, though her superior attitude put me off at times. Kneeling beside her cousin Judith to pickonions, Kit scorns the “work that a high-class slave in Barbados would rebelat”. By book’s end, however, she's grown to appreciate her new world, especially since it includes a budding romance with Nat.

Looking for Inspiration

2011-07-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

There's an interesting post about writers who use different types of imagery to inspire their work over at The Enchanted Inkpot.

I've blogged before about totems scattered around my desk and home. I also rely on visuals. While researching Slavic mythology for my current WIP, I looked for pictures of the thunder god, Perun, a main character in my story. Here's one:

Now imagine you're Nadya, a sixteen-year-old descendant of the mermaid goddess Jurata, living a cloistered life by the Baltic Sea. You unwittingly summon Perun. He insists you're Jurata reborn—killed at his hands after she spurned him to love a human—and claims you for his queen.

When you marry, he'll make you immortal. You'll fly above storms in his chariot and accept the adulation of worshipers at his temple. When his temper erupts, your siren's voice will calm his rages.

The catch: leave and he'll wipe out your family. Hmm, eternity with a hotheaded killer. Not exactly the kind of relationship your average girl dreams of in this or any other world.

But Nadya isn't your average girl. ;-)

Where do you find inspiration?

Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret

2011-07-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

I'm updating my home library with some classics and, of course, had to add at least one Judy Blume favorite.

Published more than 40 years ago, Blume's exploration of tween angst still rings true. Yes, parts of it are dated — can't imagine anyone relating to a square dance these days — but Blume captures the desperation of every girl who feels she's not normal. Stuffing bras, anyone? :)

It brought back memories of the day my mother made me tell my father that I was now a woman. Talk about humiliating!

And that film we all had to see? Who can forget learning that your reproductive system looks like a ram's head?

Have to admire Blume for writing a book that addresses tween angst and choosing a religion, though I feel that particular aspect was less well developed. For someone working on a school project about faith, Margaret's investigations felt shallow, just attending Mass and temple a few times and deciding she didn't feel God's presence.

Even so, it's a brave concept and Blume has taken a lot of heat for it, earning a spot on the ALA's top 100 challenged books. Understandable, given that religion is one of the most heated topics in any decade, but banning a book because it talks about breasts and menstruation? Ridiculous.

Have you read it?

Are Violent Videos Free Speech?

2011-06-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

I’m appalled at the Supreme Court’s ruling* that extremely violent videos are entitled to First Amendment protection. Oy! Can you hear our Founding Fathers writhing in their graves?

Writing for the majority, Justice Antonin Scalia claims a state's right to protect minors, “does not include a free-floating power to restrict the ideas to which children may be exposed.” We’re not talking about exposure, ladies and gentlemen; we’re talking about active participation.

Case in point: Postal 2, in which players can hit a woman in the face with the shovel, then decapitate and bludgeon her as she’s bleeding. Games like this one invite children to kill, maim, dismember, and sexually assault. Just how does this fall under the guise of free speech?

I don’t buy the Court’s insistence that America “has no tradition of specially restricting children’s access to depictions of violence.” No tradition? What do you call movie ratings? Even the video industry has its own rating system.

The Court conveniently rejects research showing that minors are influenced by what they see. Obviously none of the jurors has every worked in a public school. A half-dozen of my primary students were once caught dry humping each other in the boys’ bathroom. Where did they get the idea? From watching Brian (the dog) in Family Guy. Not influenced? Get real.

Don’t misunderstand me. I’m a journalist and fervent supporter of the First Amendment. Its guarantees allow me to express this dissenting opinion. In fact, as Scalia himself acknowledges, "The Free Speech Clause exists principally to protect discourse on public matters . . ."

So how do violent video games merit protection under that clause? We're not talking about speech or the press. We're talking about a medium that didn't even exist in the 1700s. Even Justice Alito, who concurred with the majority, warns about jumping to "the conclusion that new technology is fundamentally the same as some older thing with which we are familiar".

This ruling went far beyond what the writers of the Constitution ever intended. Kudos to Justices Thomas and Breyer for disagreeing, particularly since Breyer acknowledged the relevance of studies concluding that psychological harm results from playing such games.

Your thoughts?

*You can read the ruling at http://www.supremecourt.gov; go to the far right for "Recent Decisions" and click on 6/27/11 - Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Assn.

How Writing is Like Bananagrams

2011-06-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

The more I write, the more I filter experiences through a writer’s lens. It’s a blessing and a curse.

Take Bananagrams, my new favorite game. You start with 21 tiles and build connecting words, like Scrabble. Everyone plays at the same time so it’s quick, like Boggle. Serious fun.

The best part—or worst, depending on how far behind you are—is that you can demolish your creation and start from scratch. So what goes through my mind as I do exactly this?

Hey, this is like writing. If something isn’t working, I can toss it and try a new approach.

Meanwhile, my opponent triumphs. Like I said, a blessing and a curse. ;-)

Ever find yourself in similar situations?

Trust Your Gut

2011-06-14T17:12:00.000-07:00

So a while back I share the beginning chapters of a story with a couple other writers. Their feedback: add a romantic interest. It isn't enough that the main character agrees to wed a tempestuous god to save her family. She needs to leave a boy behind. Amps up the conflict.

Being a novice writer full of insecurities, I ignore my instincts and insert a third major character into my WIP. But new readers ask why he's barely mentioned.

Then it hits me. This guy isn't fleshed out because he doesn't fit the story I want to write.

It's funny how it all comes down to trusting your gut.

I wonder how many other writers have ever changed a story based on feedback and then returned to their original version. Have you?

Dream Agents

2011-06-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Laughran had a thoughtful post recently about querying favorite agents first or second.

Can't argue with her response: it's rude and unprofessional to query agents if you don't really want to work with them. Can you imagine the reverse? An agent asks for a full and then passes because she only agreed to read your work until the "dream" novel she'd been hoping for arrived. Ouch!

Sure, it's scary when you go to QueryTracker.net and run a search that shows 35 agents rep the kind of book you've written. Only thirty-five! Pretty slim pickings, especially when you've read stories of writers sending out 50, 70, 90+ queries. And that list is bound to shrink after you research via Literary Rambles or Google or AgentQuery.

No matter how big or small the list, it's important to remember you're looking for a connection, someone who will champion your work. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, cross off the name and move on to the next one.

So, yes, establish a hierarchy, but be honest about what you truly want from an agent. It's okay to dream of landing a top dealmaker (per Publishers Marketplace), or someone who reps your favorite author, or what you consider the most prestigious agency. But don't let those dreams blind you to possibilities elsewhere.

What do you think? Is it better to cast a wide net and hope you'll snare an agent or narrow your choices?

Resources:
Query Tracker: http://querytracker.net
Literary Rambles: http://caseylmccormick.blogspot.com
AgentQuery: http://www.agentquery.com
Publishers Marketplace: http://www.publishersmarketplace.com

Why Personalize a Query?

2011-05-31T13:42:00.000-07:00

I recently put my query up for dissection at an online forum and highly recommend it. Those extra sets of eyes can truly help you identify the core of your story. My first query was unfocused, the revised version much cleaner thanks to the feedback I received.

But a couple of comments touched on the issue of including why I had chosen a particular agent, suggesting that it was unnecessary unless I had a referral or an invitation to query. Their argument? You don't need to personalize; agents know you're contacting them because they represent the kind of books you write.

I disagree. As I research agents for my MG fantasy adventure, the overriding conclusion I've reached is that they appreciate a personal touch.

Imagine looking at thousands and thousands of queries, each following a set format. Sure, it's the story that makes the difference, but there's room your letter to briefly indicate why you chose an agent, so why not add it?

Come on, this is the person who's going to manage your writing career! Don't they deserve to know that you cared enough at the outset to learn something special about them? It doesn't have to be much, maybe a particular book they represent or an online interview you found especially informative.

Call it flattery, call it sucking up if you will, but we all respond to kind words. And if you want a professional relationship based on respect, to my mind there's no better way to start than by acknowledging the person you're contacting is an individual and not just a name on a list.

What do you think?

Is It Spring Yet?

2011-05-24T19:06:00.000-07:00

The jasmine is blooming. Sheer heaven.

The roses are blood-red and fragrant.

I'm ready to query again. Hurray!

That means I'll be knee-deep in agent research, so not much else to say except enjoy the coming holiday weekend and be sure to take a moment to remember those who gave their all to protect what they loved.

Where Have All the Strong Girls Gone?

2011-05-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

A study of children's literature from 1900-2000 reveals what savvy readers have known for some time: there aren't many positive female characters in kid lit (we're talking about stories for young readers, 4-8 years old). The result, according to the study's authors: "The disproportionate numbers of males in central roles may encourage children to accept the invisibility of women and girls and to believe they are less important than men and boys".

Do you agree? Can you prove them wrong?

Classic stories with brave and clever girls do exist—Jane Yolen has a great collection—but they tend to revolve around older characters (Island of the Blue Dolphins, The Witch of Blackbird Pond, The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, etc.).

So where are all the strong girls for beginning readers? With rare exceptions, you won't find them in traditional fairy and folk tales, what with wicked witches and damsels in distress waiting for knights in shining armor. You can search online and come up with a few lists, but the pickings are slim in classic picture books.

Has it changed in the twenty-first century? Doesn't look like it. You'll still find the majority of feisty females in MG and YA lit. At the younger end of the reading spectrum, there's Ladybug Girl, who makes her own fun; Fancy Nancy, who likes to dress up; Olivia, an energetic piglet; and Dora the Explorer, a cartoon character.

There must be more. What have I missed? What would you recommend?

To read the article, go to: http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/may/06/gender-imbalance-children-s-literature To read the full study by Janice McCabe, et al, go to: http://gas.sagepub.com/content/25/2

Books cited: Joan Aiken, The Wolves of Willoughby Chase; Avi, The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle; Beverly Cleary, Ramona Quinby; Jacky David, Ladybug Girl; Ian Falconer, Olivia; Jane O'Connor, Fancy Nancy; Scott O'Dell, Island of the Blue Dolphins; Elizabeth George Speare, The Witch of Blackbird Pond; Patricia Wrede, The Enchanted Forest Chronicles (love these!); Jane Yolen, Not One Damsel in Distress.

How to Strike it Rich

2011-05-10T12:41:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about the challenges early miners faced during the Gold Rush. Armed with nothing but pans, they sloshed and swirled in bitterly cold rivers, seeking all that glittered.

It's a lot like writing a book.

-You stake a claim to a story and work it alone. Sure, critique partners or groups help, but you're the one who has to get down and dirty.

-You bring patience and determination to your quest. How many times have you read that the difference between published and unpublished writers is their ability to stick with something they started?

-You slog through the muddy waters of revision and editing again and again, sifting through grit and grime to find the words that shine.

-You gnash teeth and pull hair when it looks like all you've got is Fool's Gold, but you never stop trying.

Because you know there's treasure waiting to be found.

Aliens Sighted in Mexico!

2011-05-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

The Olmec exhibit at San Francisco's De Young Museum was lauded for the enormous heads transported from Mexico, but I found the smaller figurines much more interesting (details on this group below).

Given that the giant carvings are relatively realistic, the wild heads on these guys intrigued me. Are they aliens or the mad imaginings of some ancient shaman on peyote?

In any event, it's a great photo for a story prompt!

Offering 4 (group of standing figures and celts), Mexico, Tabasco, La Venta, 900–400 BC, Jadeite, serpentine, and an atypical stone (possibly granite). Sixteen figurines, height: 6–7 7/8 in.; six celts, height: 9 3/8–10 in. Museo Nacional de Antropologia, Mexico City. Photo: Consejo Nacional para la Cultura y las Artes–Instituto Nacional de Antropologia e Historia–Mexico–Javier Hinojosa

What Would You Do to Sell A Book?

2011-04-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

"60 Minutes" recently ran a piece on Greg Mortenson, best-selling author of Three Cups of Tea, the story of his failed attempt to climb K2 and subsequent encounters with a tribe that nursed him back to health when he got lost during the descent. Mortenson later created the Central Asia Institute (CAI), which claims to have built 140 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Now it appears that the original tale may be false and people who have donated money to the CAI are questioning whether it's being used for Mortenson's personal benefit.

You can read the full story and decide for yourself (link below). In the meantime, let's talk about an author's obligation to readers.

With fiction, you can build as wild and improbable a story as you want. Non-fiction readers expect the truth. Sure, some artistic license is expected; no one wants a dull recitation of facts. Just don't lie to us.

Maybe you're shrugging. So what if he fudged the facts? His intent was good. Why should we care that he may have embellished the most dramatic parts of his books? The CAI has helped hundreds of children, particularly girls, get an education in a war-ravaged area. Surely that counts for something.

Except for the allegations that he spends more CAI money on book tours than schools.

Other writers have fabricated stories. Other charitable founders have used contributions for personal gain. Why get upset?

Because we deserve better. Because the minute we lower our standards and absolve non-fiction authors of any moral or ethical obligation to tell the truth, we invite abuse. If we don't insist on credibility, who will?
_____

You can get the full CBS story here: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/04/15/60minutes/main20054397.shtml

Why Ebooks are Bad for the Planet

2011-04-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

Over at Publisher's Weekly, Bill Henderson wrote an interesting post about e-books and the misconception that they're better ecologically than paper books. To wit :

Here's what an e-reader is: a battery-operated slab, about a pound, one-half inch thick, perhaps with an aluminum border, rubberized back, plastic, metal, silicon, a bit of gold, plus rare metals such as columbite-tantalite (Google it) ripped from the earth, often in war-torn Africa. To make one e-reader requires 33 pounds of minerals, plus 79 gallons of water to refine the minerals and produce the battery and printed writing. The production of other e-reading devices such as cellphones, iPads, and whatever new gizmo will pop up in the years ahead is similar. "The adverse health impacts [on the general public] from making one e-reader are estimated to be 70 times greater than those for making a single book," says the [New York] Times.

Ouch! By comparison:

Here's what it takes to make a book, which, if it is any good, will be shared by many readers and preserved and appreciated in personal, public, and university libraries that survive the gigantic digital book burning: recycled paper, a dash of minerals, and two gallons of water. Batteries not necessary. If trees are harvested, they can be replanted.

Sounds better, but Henderson doesn't provide statistics as to whether the harvested trees are replanted, and if so, how long it takes for them to grow before they're cut down again.

Sounds like you're damned if you do and you're damned if you don't, doesn't it? Still, I think Henderson makes a good point, especially given the tech industry's constant push to get you to buy the newest products and simply toss the old (which, even if recycled, can end up being burned down for the metal components).

What do you think?

For the full article, go to: http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/columns-and-blogs/soapbox/article/46793-books-without-batteries-the-negative-impacts-of-technology.html

More Musings on Success

2011-04-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

A J Hartley over at the Magical Words has a great post on goals, success, and lessons learned during his writing career. Definitely worth a read.

More Musings on Success

Wh-wh-wh-what?

2011-04-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Pop Quiz:

You place your protagonist in a frightening situation. Does s/he:
a. scream/shriek/squeal
b. faint
c. stutter
d. forge ahead, heart quaking, knees shaking, etc.
e. turn tail and run

If you answered (c), ask yourself why.

Think about it. Ever stutter when you're afraid? Know anyone who does?

A true stutterer will stumble over many words, not just the first one in a sentence. There's debate over how much is psychological and how much is physiological, but everyone agrees it's a verbal handicap.

I'm not saying characters can't have weaknesses, but if you're going to deprive a character of a clear and strong voice, make sure there's a reason. Give us a bit of backstory, some context that explains why this person stammers (a traumatic event, a parent who insisted on perfect diction at all times, etc.). Be creative, don't settle for a tiresome cliche.

Better yet, show us your protagonist's unique reaction to a fearful situation. Find the words to make us feel their anxiety. Your writing will shine and your readers will thank you for delicious thrills.

How to Critique

2011-04-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

A potential crit partner returned my chapters with comments about the story itself, which I appreciated, and lots of line edits, which I didn't. IMO, when another author rewrites your words, they've gone too far.

So how do you approach a critique? A few guidelines come to mind:

RESPECT the author. The purpose of a critique is general feedback, not editing. Note what you like and what gave you pause as far as plot, characters, and setting. If you see grammar and punctuation errors, point them out and move on.

Some responders claim they don't know how to tell the author what's wrong with a given section, so they just write it out for them. Seriously? If you don't know how to phrase your concerns, it's time to Google "constructive criticism" and learn the basics.

RESTRAIN yourself (see above). It's not your story; don't presume to fix it. Yes, you need to address areas that concern you ("I'm confused here" or "Not sure if this is the best way to transition" or "I didn't connect with this character", etc.). Leave it at that. Let the author consider your comments and choose whether to act on them or not.

REMEMBER, unless a specific request has been made for editorial feedback, all anyone wants is your opinion. Share what worked, what didn't, and let it go.

What's your take on this?

Where I've Been

2011-03-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

In Apple Store Hell, that's where!

My advice: if your Apple computer needs repair, find an Apple Care Certified Technician.

The Mac "geniuses" at the Apple Store returned my iBook as broken as when I left it with them. I was going to try a technician, but couldn't find a window to travel, what with all the storms. Plus, according to Apple forums, I was lucky to get six good years out of my laptop, which apparently was a problem-prone cheap model designed to compete with PCs.

In the meantime, I tried to do web stuff via a friend's PC but I used my Apple keyboard shortcuts and he wound up with a mysterious file that needed scanning and removal. So I was limited to checking email.

The Apple Store was able to do was save my files to an external hard drive, but I'll need to spend some time transferring and updating my work to the newest version of Word.

The upside? Got lots and lots of writing done. :)

Looking forward to reconnecting as soon as I get things squared away on my new computer. Cheers!

How to Write a Synopsis

2011-03-01T12:27:00.000-08:00

Part of the SCBWI grant process involves submitting a synopsis. *heart begins to flutter* Although I'm allowed up to 750 words, according to
SCBWI the professional norm is one page, 250 words, double-spaced.

Wait. 250 words? Double-spaced? The synopsis I wrote for the San Francisco Writers’ Conference was 584 words, single-spaced! *palms begin to sweat*

So how do you cut a synopsis in half and still maintain the essence of the story? Start with the basics—beginning, middle, end—and go from there. Sounds easy, doesn’t it? The hard part is avoiding the temptation to include too many details.

My SFWC synopsis clearly tries to squeeze in as much of the action as possible. But you don’t need a blow-by-blow account of the narrative. You need to pull back and look at the big picture.

Begin by identifying the core issue. You can do that by using the Somebody-Wanted-But-So approach:

1. Somebody (a character)

2. Wants (has a goal)

3. But (something stands in the way/conflict)

4. So (s/he tries to overcome it)

Since a synopsis must include the ending, add:

5. How the conflict is resolved.

Bare bones, absolutely, but it covers all the necessary story elements. From here, it’s a matter of fleshing out the plot without drowning in minutiae.

Following these rough guidelines, I’ve reduced my synopsis to 321 words. *rewards self with chocolate* However, I’ve got less than two weeks to whittle it down to 250. *red wine goes well with chocolate, doesn't it?*
Must. Be. Merciless.

What's the shortest synopsis you've ever written?

Links related to this post:
SCBWI Grants: http://kjankowski.blogspot.com/2011/01/scbwi-awards-and-grants.html
SWBS approach: http://kjankowski.blogspot.com/2010/09/somebody-wants-but-so.html

How to Save Your Writing

2011-02-22T15:33:00.000-08:00

I'd love to be brave, like Cynthia Leitich Smith, write a first draft, get to know my characters and story, then delete it. But I'm a pack rat when it comes to my work. Nothing goes away for good.

For each story, I create a file named EXCISIONS, and fill it as I revise successive drafts. Maybe it's backstory waiting for the appropriate placement. A scene that doesn’t quite advance the plot. Stilted dialogue. Tangents—oh, yes, lots of those!

I may never use any of it, but I feel better knowing it’s there. Just in case.

Since it's so easy to save things digitally, why not, if for no other reason than to show how much you’ve grown as a writer? Those reminders are priceless when you’re feeling low. And they'll come in handy when you've been invited to speak at schools and conferences (dream big!) about your writing process.

What about you? Do you have a special place for your deathless prose?

Great News!

2011-02-15T11:15:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling very lucky these days, for two reasons:

First, I entered Shelli's pitch contest at Market My Words. While I didn't make her list of winners, I did get an email from an agent inviting me to send her my query and the first 5 pages of my book
when it's "ready to go".

Exciting? You bet, especially since this agency is closed to
unsolicited queries.

What makes it even sweeter is that I also entered Brenda Drake's first line contest and won a query critique from the amazing Weronika Janczuk at the D4EO Literary Agency. How cool is that?

Moral of the story: don't be afraid to put yourself out there.

Or, as I like to say: Leap, and the net will appear!

A Video for Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T15:24:00.000-08:00

Show this to your partner before you go out dancing tonight!

First Line Blogfest Entry

2011-02-07T13:54:00.000-08:00

Today and tomorrow, participants in Brenda Drake's It Was A Dark and Stormy Blogfest will be sharing their first lines. Here's mine:

Name: Kathryn Jankowski
Title: WORSE THAN WICKED
Genre: MG fantasy adventure

Any other morning, one of the scavengers sifting through the white sands of Palanga would have found the jewel first, but today Roze arrived at the beach before dawn.

So, what do you think?

Win A Critique from Weronika

2011-02-03T12:10:00.000-08:00

I've always wondered why "It was a dark and stormy night" has such a bad rep, since it's how Madeline L'Engle begins her classic, A WRINKLE IN TIME.

Be that as it may, it's also the title of a first-line contest over at Brenda Drake's blog. The amazing Weronika Janczuk of D4EO Literary Agency will choose three winners for critiques ranging from 50 pages to your query. Nice!

For details, go to
Brenda Drake Writes

Good luck!

Pay It Forward Contest

2011-02-01T11:34:00.000-08:00

MG/YA writer and marketer Shelli Johannes-Wells is offering a referral to her agent, Alyssa Eisner Henkin (Trident Media Group), in a Pay It Forward contest on her blog, Market My Words.

Part of the contest involves recognizing someone who helped you in your writing journey. I'd like to thank Margaret Speaker Yuan, the SCBWI Regional Adviser for the San Francisco North & East Bay areas.

Margaret coordinated a writing retreat at a seminary when I was just beginning to write fiction. I'd paid for a critique at a local SCBWI conference and been told my story didn't really start until page 10—oy! I needed some uninterrupted writing time to compose a new beginning. Margaret's support and kind words for my efforts gave me a shot of confidence at just the right time.

If you're in Northern California and ever have a chance to work with Margaret, grab it! She's a treasure.

For details on Shelli's contest, head over to her blog at http://faeriality.blogspot.com/2011/01/need-agent-pay-it-forward-contest.html. Good luck!

FREE EDIT - A DEAREDITOR.COM GIVEAWAY!

2011-01-30T18:36:00.000-08:00

There's still time to win a full manuscript edit from Deborah Halverson, author of Writing Young Adult Fiction for Dummies, but you need to act fast: the deadline is midnight, PST, January 31.

Details are on Halverson's website at http://dear-editor.com/2011/01/19/newsflash-a-deareditor-com-giveaway-a-free-yamg-edit/.

Stop by and congratulate her, then enter the drawing. Good luck!

SCBWI Awards and Grants

2011-01-25T17:34:00.000-08:00

If you're a member of SCBWI, don't forget to check out its annual awards and grants.

The new Crystal Kite Member Choice Awards are given for best book chosen by members of each SCBWI Regional Division. For this year's award, any first-run book published during the 2010 calendar year is eligible.
     Deadline to submit: January 31.
     Details: http://www.scbwi.org/Pages.aspx/Crystal-Kite-Member-Choice-Awards.

The Work-in-Progress Grants cover several categories:
- General WIP Grant (I'm going for this one)
- Contemporary Novel Grant (prose, poetry, any genre)
- Non-fiction Research Grant (bios, memoirs, other non-fiction)
- Multi-cultural Grant (works from an ethic perspective)
- Barbara Karlin Grant (unpublished picture book writers)
- Don Freeman Grant (unpublished picture book illustrators)
   Grant amounts: $2,500 for winners (1 per category); $500 for runners-up (7 per category)
     Deadline: Must be postmarked no earlier than Feb. 15 and received by March 15.
     Details: http://www.scbwi.org/Pages.aspx/WIP-Grant(1)

The Martha Weston Grant is given to any published author who wants to try a different children's genre (say, switching from picture books to young adult or vice versa).
     Grant amount: $1,500
     Deadline: Must be postmarked no earlier than May 1 and received by June 10.
   Details: http://www.scbwi.org/Pages.aspx/Martha-Weston-Grant

There's lots of competition for these prizes, and word is that editors take notice (past winners include Jay Asher and Lisa Yee). Wouldn't it be great to include one of these in the "BIO" section of your query letter?

Go ahead, enter. This just might be your year. Good luck!

What A Book is Worth

2011-01-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

Just returned from San Francisco, where I saw Van Gogh's Starry Night Over the Rhone, part of a show of post-Impressionist masterpieces from the Musee D'Orsay in Paris. I've never seen a painting so alive. Even though you could get fairly close and study the brushwork—particularly how color was applied to show light reflected on the water—when you stepped away the river actually shimmered. Gorgeous.

Of course, the discussion at dinner included a lively debate about what gives art its value. Critics derided the Impressionist movement itself until the work began to sell and then—wonder of wonders—suddenly the artists were welcomed at the Paris Salon with open arms. We were blind but now we see! What mastery! What genius!

Writers face the same issues, I think, especially women. To cite just one example, in high school I took an elective class on Black Literature. Not a lady in sight. I didn't discover Zora Neale Hurston until years later and was stunned to learn she was a co-founder of the Harlem Renaissance that I supposedly studied as a junior. Her masterpiece, THEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD, is a stunning read, yet it wasn't until Oprah brought that book to her audience that Neale Hurston began to receive the acclaim she richly deserves (although the less said about the messy made-for-TV version, the better).

What do you think? Is commercial success the defining factor that makes any art valuable? Or do you need the blessings of the critical elite?

Can Witches Be Good?

2011-01-11T16:06:00.000-08:00

Angela Ackerman ran another of her terrific thesauruses, this one covering symbols considered evil (link below). Witches, of course, made the list. Because when you think of them, they're always nasty, right?

We all know the classic witches. The snaggle-toothed crone offering Snow White deadly fruit. The green-skinned hag coveting Dorothy’s ruby slippers. The withered beldam fattening up the children who nibbled at her house. Nothing nice about ‘em.

I don't have a problem with the label. It's a stereotype, sure, but therein lies the challenge. A well-crafted villainess is a delight to read; the trick is to give readers a flesh-and-blood character, one neither wholly bad nor absolutely pure. Something in-between Glinda’s saccharine sweetness and Elphaba’s deviltry. A few authors who have already done so:

Donna Jo Napoli tweaks one witch’s image in THE MAGIC CIRCLE. In this compassionate retelling of Hansel and Gretel’s tale, we meet the “Ugly One”, a devoted mother who loses her healing powers and battles demons that demand she eat flesh. Her resolve holds until two lovely, delicious children arrive at her candy-strewn cottage. It isn't Gretel’s ingenuity that saves the day, but the old woman's decision to sacrifice herself rather than give in to fiendish urges. A nice twist.

I know of only a couple other books that strive to show witches in a sympathetic light, including Gregory Maguire’s WICKED, which I’ve put off reading. Why? Because I saw a bit of the play on a TV show and thought it was ridiculous, some song about the Elphaba (the future Wicked Witch of the West) wanting to be popular. No, no, no. This is magical land of Oz we’re talking about, not high school.

It appears the newest remake is FAIREST OF ALL by Serena Valentino. Love the cover. Can’t wait to read it. I was terrified of the warty-nosed witch from Disney’s movie, and literally thought my 9-year-old heart would burst when I was on the Snow White ride at Disneyland and it broke down just as the black-cloaked cackler thrust a poisoned apple in my direction.

Of course, there’s a cultural bias against women who exert their prowess, particularly those who attune themselves to nature. Condemning them as consorts of the devil is an easy way to mask fear and ignorance. So, while a few books may attempt to mitigate the damage, I doubt there will ever be a time when we don’t associate witches with evil. The connection is too ingrained in our collective unconscious.

What do you think?

http://thebookshelfmuse.blogspot.com/2011/01/symbolism-thesaurus-entry-evil.html

A New Beginning

2011-01-04T14:22:00.000-08:00

I started this blog because I wanted to be part of a larger writing community. I'm delighted at the online friends I've made. Still, it's been a struggle to find my blogging voice.

There's plenty of advice for bloggers, but how do you choose? Some say, "It's not about you". Really? Then why do personal posts on popular blogs get the most comments? Or, "Be sure you're providing a service". Okay, except every aspect of writing has been analyzed six ways from Sunday and I'm not sure I have anything fresh to add.

So, if it's not about me and it's not about the writing process, what then? What's my niche? How can I distinguish myself from millions of other bloggers? (I freely admit my ego craves recognition.) My interests are vast, but issues and topics relating to women and girls have always been front and center.

Don't know exactly where this will lead, but I suspect there will be posts about how girls are portrayed in books, memorable female characters, literary role models, writing for girls, perhaps a regular feature highlighting "women who dare", or my picks for winners and losers in fiction. In any event, I'll do my best to keep it relevant and, I hope, provocative.

Here's to a year of lively discussions!

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

To everyone near and far, however you celebrate the season, best wishes for you and yours.

I'm taking a blog vacation until after New Year's. See you in 2011.

Cheers!

Give a Kid a Book – For Free!

2010-12-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

With wallets stretched thin these days, it’s harder to find money for charities. But there’s a way to help underprivileged children around the world get free books, and it doesn’t cost a dime.

Go to The Literacy Site (link below) and click on the button. How easy is that? ;-)

As long as you're there, go ahead and click the other tabs to assist agencies working on behalf of rescued animals, the rainforest, breast cancer, children's health, and hunger.

I’ve got the site embedded in my Bookmarks toolbar as a reminder to visit daily. It literally takes only a minute and you'll be helping some worthy causes.

Thanks, and please, spread the word!

The Literacy Site

Books for Writers - Part II

2010-12-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

Last week, we looked at a few good books for the general writer. Today, I'm sharing some titles that will enhance any fantasy writer's collection.

In WRITING MAGIC, Gail Carson Levine, the best-selling author of “Ella Enchanted”, takes you through the process of writing a book and shares some of her secrets. Filled with writing prompts and examples. Easy and fun to read, though I’ll admit to skipping the exercises. ;-)

Jane Yolen has been likened to a modern Hans Christian Andersen. She’s prolific, witty, and credited with the infamous phrase, "Butt in Chair". TOUCH MAGIC is her collection of essays about fantasy, faerie, and folklore in children’s literature. A book as entertaining and provocative as the writer herself.

If you’re looking for mythic structure, Christopher Vogler's your man. He guides you step-by-step through the stages of a hero’s journey. Surprisingly, the journey crosses genres: Westerns, mysteries, sci-fi, thrillers, drama, romance, horror, even comedy. Buy THE WRITER’S JOURNEY and read it with a pack of Post-Its handy. You’ll need them.

For a scholarly look at fairy tales, pick up a copy of FROM THE BEAST TO THE BLONDE. Martina Warner offers intriguing new interpretations of old tales. She’s an academic, so her work isn’t for the faint of heart. But a good teacher expects her students to work hard, doesn’t she? I first learned about FTBTTB at the SurLaLune blogsite. Go visit!

Do you have any recommendations?

Books for Writers - Part I

2010-11-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

Every writer deserves at least one new book about the craft for the holidays. This week, I'm offering a few suggestions for books about writing and publishing in general. Next week I'll share books geared toward the fantasy writer.

Editor Betsy Lerner brings an insider's perspective on what makes writers tick and then shows us how a publishing house really works. If you write, you want this book.
PART I deals with the writing psyche. Witty, insightful, and illuminating, sometimes painfully so.
PART II covers the publication process, from the time you get an agent to the day your book comes into the world. Straightforward and sobering.

You're probably wondering how this book ended up on a fantasy writer's shelf. Easy. Beinhart's no-nonsense advice crosses genres and covers everything from scene construction to narrative drive to the four methods of creating characters. Filled with examples from well-known mysteries. A must-have if you write whodunits, and an excellent resource for everyone else.

Written in the late '30s and still timely. Brenda Ueland, an author knighted by the king of Norway, believes everyone is talented, original, and has something important to say. I especially like Chapter X: Why Women who do too much housework should neglect it for their writing. Done!

I bought this book directly from the authors after their lively presentation at a local SCBWI conference. Literary agent Arielle Eckstut and her co-author/husband, writer David Henry Sterry, have compiled an entertaining, comprehensive overview of how to become a successfully published author. One of the few books I've read that deals with the hard facts of contracts and royalties, as well as the reality of book launches and what it takes to keep a book "alive". Definitely worth adding to your collection.

NOTE: Per Mr. Sterry (see comments), there's a new, updated version of this above book, renamed THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO GETTING YOUR BOOK PUBLISHED. Check it out!

And last, but not least, two others I've mentioned in previous posts:
SELF-EDITING FOR FICTION WRITERS
by Renni Browne & Dave King
THE SCENE BOOK
by Sandra Scofield

Get Ready to Loosen Those Belts

2010-11-23T14:07:00.000-08:00

May your turkeys be moist, your dressings savory, and your pies sweet. Safe journeys to anyone who's traveling.

Until next week, cheers!

The Forest for the Trees

2010-11-16T12:56:00.000-08:00

There's so much to like about this book, from editor/agent Betsy Lerner's wit to her generosity in pulling back the curtains on how publishing works. What I like best is her thoughts on what makes a writer.

There's the love-hate relationship with writing itself, the agony of self-doubt, the burning desire to put your story out there, the discipline. The need for solitude in a society that mistrusts loners. An ego big enough to pursue your dreams and strong enough to battle the demons that will rise to thwart you. And they will rise, oh, how they'll rise!

Frankly, the part about ego caught me by surprise. I thought anyone plagued by feelings of notworthiness (is there such a word?) lacked self-esteem. But that's exactly what keeps us going. We're convinced our stories need to be told, that no one else can tell them the way we can. We brave the blank screen, we never give up. And perseverance, in Lerner's opinion, is the best predictor of success.

Whatever the catalyst (anger, pain, joy, curiosity, payback, obsession) writing is a way we prove ourselves to the world. Remember that mousy girl who hid in the back row at school? The one who blended with the walls in a crowd? Under that shy exterior, a writer lurked, watching and waiting. Now she's ready to share her stories.

So, how's your writing ego these days?

What Genre Chose You?

2010-11-09T11:10:00.000-08:00

“Most writers have very little choice in what they write about. What is in evidence over and over again is a certain set of obsessions, a certain vocabulary, a way of approaching the page.”
Betsy Lerner, THE FOREST FOR THE TREES

I’ve been reading Lerner’s marvelous book, which looks at the makeup of writers before delving into what actually goes on in publishing. Time after time, she astounds me with her insights, particularly when she addresses why writers write.

But it was the above claim that got me thinking about my genre in a new way. Did I really choose to write fantasy, or was it inevitable?

I’ve always been drawn to books that deal with the magical, the fantastic, the supernatural. You might say it’s an escape, but isn’t all literature just that, something that draws us out of the ordinary world into one the author creates?

When I decided to switch from journalism to fiction, it just seemed natural to write fantasy. Lerner puts it this way: “ . . . a writer gravitates toward a certain form or genre because, like a well-made jacket, it suits him.”

I love the analogy to tailoring. We start out with raw words, patch them together into designs best suited to our tale, fiddle around with alterations until we have a custom fit (call it voice, if you will), and –voila!–a book is born.

So, tell me, did you choose the genre or did the genre choose you?

Life is Sweet!

2010-11-02T11:29:00.000-07:00

THEY DID IT!!

WOO HOO!!

(Good thing I bought an extra bag of throat lozenges!)

Little Witch

2010-10-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

You’d think someone who awaited Nancy Drew sequels with a fervor matched by Harry Potter fans would have kept them all, but only one childhood book survived my many moves and purges: LITTLE WITCH, the story of Minx, a witch's daughter who learns that love can change your life.

Like Minx, I wondered if I’d been born into the wrong family, although my parents insisted that distinction belonged to a sibling. I didn’t believe there was a beautiful fairy waiting to claim me (sorry for the spoiler), but Minx’s courage and happy ending gave me hope there were better days ahead.

I doubt my torn and taped Scholastic paperback would sell for $59, a price I found online. Then again, it’s one of those keepsakes whose value can’t be measured in dollars and cents.

What childhood books hold special memories for you?

What Fools These Writers Be!

2010-10-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

Haven't consulted the Tarot in months, so when The Fool appeared you can imagine my dismay, especially since I pulled the card the day after posting my first 250 words online.

As it turns out, the meaning of this card is totally in sync with writing.

How?

Writers undertake life-changing journeys.

We may be unaware of all the hardships in store, but we accept whatever comes our way (sometimes with grace, sometimes not).

We'll take risks, even if it means venturing into the unknown.

We're on a path to mastery.

If that makes me a fool, then I'll gladly answer to the name.

----------------

Mega thanks to everyone who stopped by and commented on my blogfest entry. I so appreciate your feedback!

I know this post is brief, but the Giants are playing in just a couple of hours and I need to work on my WIP before the couch claims me.

The First 250 Words Blogfest

2010-10-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

Since signing up for Elle's blogfest, I won a first-page critique from The Bookshelf Muse and joined Critique Circle, so what you're reading is new and based on their feedback. It's still very raw, but I'd appreciate your honest thoughts. (The blogfest doesn't officially start until tomorrow, but I'm off to the Wine Country for the weekend, so I'm posting early.)

Worse Than Wicked [upper MG fantasy]

Any other morning, one of the scavengers sifting though the white sands of Palanga would have found the amber first, but today Roza arrived at the beach before dawn. She spread a blanket for her dog, Bo, and ordered him to stand guard, knowing full well he’d chase waves and roll in seaweed the moment her back was turned. Breathing deep, she dove into the chill waters and headed for the jagged rocks at the entrance to Palanga’s cove. An hour later she stood dripping by her kelp-covered dog, no closer to solving the problem that made sleep impossible whenever the harvest moon shone full.

“We might as well stay here, Bo,” she said. “I’ll bet Mama and Papa won’t even notice we’re gone. They’ll be too busy getting ready to visit Her Royal Snootiness.”

She yanked a comb through tangled black curls. No matter how hard she pleaded, her parents sailed alone to dine with Syrene, Mermaid Queen of the Baltic Seas. Roza tried everything to get on board: tears, tantrums, refusing to eat or speak. Nothing worked. She couldn’t bear to watch them leave without her again, waving goodbye as magic currents pulled her father’s fishing boat out to the ocean, to the royal palace hidden within enchanted mists.

She kicked the wet sand and shrieked as her toe struck stone. Muttering a curse she’d learned at the wharf, she reached down into the gritty muck and pulled out a tangerine jewel as big as a duck's egg.

Thanks for reading and having a wonderful weekend!

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

2010-10-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

You know how it is. Writing transports you to another place, you lose track of what's going on in the real world. Yesterday, there was a fire at the local airport, about a mile away. I'd opened all the windows early in the day, then retreated to my den to write, loaded my CD player, and turned on my essential oil diffuser (rosemary oil sharpens the mind, they say).

When I emerged from the imaginary world of my MG fantasy, the sun was hidden behind a cloud of foul smoke and my house reeked. I closed windows, turned on ceiling and exhaust fans, rubbed mentholatum under my nose, but the damage was done. Had to stay up late to let in fresh air and got up early to rinse off my poor, wind-whipped, dusty plants. Fortunately, there's a fair breeze today so the odor should be completely gone by nightfall.

Lesson learned? Butt-in-chair is well and good, but life needs your attention, too.

In other news: I usually post on Tuesdays only, but this week I'm participating in my first blogfest, hosted by Elle Strauss (scroll down right side for info). I'll be putting up my first 250 words on Friday. Hope you have a chance to stop by and share your thoughts.

Somebody Out There Likes Me!

2010-10-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

I recently received The Versatile Blogger and One Lovely Blog awards from Catherine A. Winn at The Writing Room. Thanks, Catherine!

By now, I'm sure you all know the rules that come with blog awards: thank and link back to the giver, share a few things about yourself, pass it on (up to 15 times), and notify those you've awarded. Here we go!

About me:
1.   I spent my 26th birthday drinking Polish vodka on a train headed for Athens, complete with boisterous Greeks and their animals.
2.   When I win at card or board games, I do a victory chicken dance around the table.
3.   One of my jobs during college was working as a custodian at a downtown park across from a city’s sole porn theater, and, yes, I was approached and solicited by a few who thought my Parks and Rec uniform was a costume.
4.   My father's family is Polish, my mother's, Latina. A journalism professor once suggested I highlight my ethnicity by hyphenating my name to Jankowski-Gonzales. Try saying that three times fast!
5.   I'm a Gemini, which means (if you believe in astrology) that I'm easily distracted and . . . oooh, look, something shiny!

Now for some bloggers I think you'd like:
Book Aunt: children's book reviews by author Kate Coombs.
Stroppy Author's Guide to Publishing: UK author Anne Rooney features an ongoing series of posts on how to read and understand a publishing contract.
Jacket Knack: for those who love book covers and design.
The Gypsy's Guide: a vagabond's delight, with a special emphasis on Italy, hosted by Angela Nickerson.

Thanks again to Catherine for the awards!

Somebody-Wants-But-So

2010-09-28T12:33:00.000-07:00

There are lots of good posts about goals, motivation, and conflict, including an excellent one on today's Adventures in Children's Publishing blog.

As much as I enjoy discovering these ideas, my fallback is a strategy I used in the classroom during reading instruction: Somebody-Wanted-But-So (SWBS)*. In my version, the goal is present tense:
           1. Somebody (a character)
           2. Wants (has a goal)
           3. But (something stands in the way)
           4. So (s/he tries to overcome it)

It's simple, succinct, and flexible; you can apply it to an entire book, or break it down by chapter and/or scene. When applied to each character, it helps summarize the overall conflicts within a story.

Take the Big Bad Wolf. He wants to eat the Little Pigs, but they won't let him in, so he blows down their houses and gobbles them up. When he can't level the brick house, he tries to sneak in via the chimney, only to fall into a vat of boiling water.

Why does he fail? Because the smartest of the pigs has his own SWBS: he wants to thrive in a hostile world, so he builds a secure house, but when the wolf finds another way in, the pig figures out a way to thwart him.

THE WIZARD OF OZ is a great example as well. The characters are memorable not just for their personalities, but because each one has a clearly defined SWBS.

For my own story, I used this approach from page one. My MC wants to meet the Mermaid Queen, but her parents refuse to bring her along on their monthly visits, so she devises a plan to sneak aboard their boat with the help of a dazzling jewel, a scheme that backfires in ways she never imagined.

So there you have it: goal, motivation, conflict, and resolution, all in an easy-to-use formula.

Sound good?

*This strategy is attributed to MacOn, Bewell & Vogt, 1991. For a template of SWBS, go to
http://wvde.state.wv.us/strategybank/Somebody-Wanted-But-So.html and click on the chart link.

Mea Culpa, Mea Culpa, Mea Maxima Culpa

2010-09-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

(All you sinners out there know what that means.)

I’ve been terrible about responding in a timely manner to people who’ve tagged me, so today I begin to make amends.

But first, I want to alert you all to a fabulous 1,000-follower contest over at Angela Ackerman’s blog, The Bookshelf Muse. If you haven’t seen Angela’s wonderful thesauruses, get thee hence! While you’re there, sign up for a chance to win critiques or a three-month mentorship. Good luck!

The most marvelous VR Barkowski tagged me with "5 Questions". My answers:

Question 1 - Where were you five years ago?
1. Teaching second grade.
2. Hiking in Maui (spring).
3. Wondering what possessed me to buy an accordion (summer).
4. Recovering from a car accident caused by a woman talking on her cell phone (fall).
5. Contemplating early retirement so I could focus on writing.

Question 2 - Where would you like to be in five years?
1. Living closer to my hometown, San Francisco.
2. Agented and successfully published.
3. Improving with each book I write.
4. A better musician.
5. Swimming with the manatees.

Question 3 - What's on your to-do list today?
1. Revising my MG fantasy.
2. Blogging.
3. Exercise (balance ball and yoga, most likely).
4. Reading more of Catching Fire.
5. Refilling the bird feeder and birdbath.

Question 4 - What snacks do you enjoy?
1. Nachos.
2. Dark chocolate.
3. Organic apples with white cheddar cheese and Ak Mak crackers.
4. Walnuts.
5. Peanut butter on saltines.

Question 5 - What five things would you do if you were a billionaire?
1. Buy a huge parcel of land, build a good-sized main house and lots of cottages, then invite writers for all-expenses-paid retreats (transportation, bed, board, and stipend included).
2. Hire personal trainers and masseuses for myself and my friends.
3. Employ a driver to shuttle me everywhere.
4. Travel first class or bypass the airlines altogether with my own jet.
5. Start a college scholarship for deserving students.

Now it’s time to pass the tag along on to five bloggers I think you might enjoy:
1.    Catherine A. Winn
2.    Rahma Krambo
3.    Icy Sedgwick
4.    Rachna Chhabria
5.    Gretchen McNeil

And thanks again to VR, whose blog is always worth a visit.

We Are the Message Bearers

2010-09-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

I don't usually write about politics, but a recent visit to the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. reminded me how easy it is to manipulate public opinion with carefully chosen words and images.

I was in town when the Museum featured an exhibit dedicated to Nazi propaganda. Hitler owned every media outlet and had a huge bureaucracy devoted solely to communications: publishing, airwaves, and film. He commissioned children's literature to demonize the enemy. Every household was given a radio so no one would miss his speeches. His newsreels flooded movie houses. In other words, he totally controlled the message.

Imagine how he would have used the social media available now. Scary.

Why should we care? Because we are today's message bearers, especially when it comes to writing for children:

- When we create characters and pit them against every imaginable foe, we encourage triumph over adversity.
- When we bring diverse cultures to life, we remind readers how much they have in common with others around the globe.
- When we breathe life into women and men seeking justice, we reveal a world where even the downtrodden have champions.
- When we craft stories that help children and young adults navigate various stages of life, we offer hope.

And in doing so, we take a stand against the small minds that would divide us.

A Few Good Books

2010-08-24T09:01:00.000-07:00

While I decide which book(s) to bring on vacation, here are some quick reviews of recent reads:

Clare B. Dunkle – THE HOLLOW KINGDOM
I rarely finish a book and then read it again immediately, but Dunkle totally swept me up in her tale of a goblin king and his reluctant human bride. If you never thought a goblin could entice you, then meet Marak, a roguish, manipulative sovereign who rules a richly imagined underground world. I guarantee you’ll be rooting for him long before the book’s end.

Donald Maass – THE FIRE IN FICTION
Literary agent Maass believes every novel can be inspired and his book offers techniques to fire up yours. Maass offers succinct examples from general fiction, followed by exercises that bring a fresh perspective to any WIP. Highly recommended.

Brian Jacques – REDWALL
Normally, I’m a bit ho-hum about stories with talking animals–although I'm definitely looking forward to Hilary Wagner's Nightshade City in October–but this clever tale of mice defending their abbey against a ruthless rat and his army hooked me with lively characters (good and evil) and a grand adventure.

Won't have a chance to post again until I get back. See you in a few weeks!

Have Notebook, Will Travel

2010-08-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Many writers take their laptops everywhere, even on vacation, but some of us like to travel light (says she who crams clothes into suitcases, but it's all about layers, isn't it?). In preparation for a wedding back East, I decided against trying to fit my iBook into carryon luggage and opted instead to work on a hard copy.

Normally, I don't print until a draft is finished, but since I'm done revising the first 50-odd pages of my MG fantasy, it seemed like a good time to look at them off-screen. So, I'll be mailing the ms. to my destination–a house with no computer access, by the way–along with red pens, Post-Its, and a notebook for comments and the inevitable rewrites.

How about you? Do you write when you travel?

BTW: If you missed last week's incredible WriteOnCon, check out Marissa's daily roundup over at Adventures in Children's Publishing:
Day 1: http://childrenspublishing.blogspot.com/2010/08/conference-round-up-writeoncon-day-1.html
Day 2: http://childrenspublishing.blogspot.com/2010/08/conference-round-up-writeoncon-day-2.html
Day 3: http://childrenspublishing.blogspot.com/2010/08/conference-round-up-writeoncon-day-3.html

Write On!

2010-08-09T10:48:00.000-07:00

I'm posting a day early this week to remind everyone about the fabulous FREE online conference for children's writers, WriteOnCon, which begins tomorrow. If you haven't signed up, get a move on!

For the full schedule, go here: http://writeoncon.com/about/schedule.

See you there!

Questioning the Author

2010-08-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

While teaching, I used a wonderful resource (see below) to help students connect with text. Basically, you ask questions about an author's purpose to increase your understanding of story structure.

And it dawned on me recently: what a great way to look at our own writing! We want readers to actively engage with our stories, don't we? So, I took a few of the book's Queries (interesting choice of words, no?) and modified them for writers. Hope you find them useful.

- What's the basic story you're telling? (Think of your pitch here.)

- Is everything in the text relevant to this story? (Don't create drama just for its own sake; if it doesn't further the narrative, out it goes.)

- Do your scenes present POVs the reader can easily follow? (Zoom in and zoom out, as needed.)

- Does the story flow, or is it bogged down in certain areas? (If you stop, your reader will, too. Guaranteed.)

- Are you using age-appropriate language? (Tricky–you don't want to "dumb down" your story.)

- Is the plot clear? (Confusion and ambiguity can kill a reader's enthusiasm for your story.)

- How have you revealed your characters? (Actions vs. description.)

- If you asked readers to explain the meaning of a scene or chapter, or even the entire work, would their responses match your intent? (One of many reasons to be thankful for critique partners.)

What do you think? Did any of these help?

QUESTIONING THE AUTHOR by Isabel L. Beck, Margaret G. McKeown, Rebecca L. Hamilton,Linda Kucan.

Should You Blog?

2010-07-27T11:33:00.000-07:00

Agent Mary Kole recently posted about whether unpublished writers need to blog and came up with a number of reasons why they shouldn't, including a lack of valuable content. The one positive? "They foster community among other unpublished writers."

Isn't that reason enough?

Writing is a lonely profession and a blog is one way to reach out to other authors, unpublished and published. It's the connection that counts, the ability to offer support as we all journey to–and through–publication. There's nothing like a few words from a cyber-friend to brighten your day.

Another reason to blog is discipline. I rarely finish long, rambling posts, simply because there isn't time. In that respect, I feel like an agent. Hook me fast, or I'm outta here!

As for valuable content, well, that's purely subjective. Some readers look for a personal slant. Others want writing and publishing advice, or suggestions for books to buy. I don't particularly care for cat news, but even Kole admits her feline posts generated enormous interest. Different strokes for different folks.

Finally, the online community is full of generous souls. Take the free upcoming WriteOn conference (see countdown calendar on side), assembled by a group of writers and bloggers as a means of giving back. Authors, agents, editors, publishers, all are participating on a volunteer basis. Talk about fellowship!

So don't worry about followers or comments. Join the party, enjoy the camaraderie, and count your blessings when kindred spirits find you.

Mary Kole's post:
h ttp://kidlit.com/2010/07/21/should-unpublished-writers-blog

Roget and Me

2010-07-20T13:21:00.000-07:00

In my search for the just the right word, I often turn to Roget’s Thesaurus, which is a great resource but has the potential to distract me. For example:

Look up “sat”. See “Satan” at top of page. Find synonyms and antonyms for “the devil”. Notice "Beelzebub".

Am reminded of the Washington Post's Mensa Invitational reworking of the word and search old emails until I find it: Beelzebug (n.): Satan in the form of a mosquito, that gets into your bedroom at three in the morning and cannot be cast out.

Re-read the rest (**see below) and have a good laugh. Return to thesaurus. See Loki under subheading “fallen angels”. Hey, wasn’t that the spirit that possessed Jim Carrey in “The Mask”?

By now, I’ve forgotten why I opened Roget’s in the first place. And I wonder why my word count for the day is so low!

**The Washington Post's Mensa Invitational asks readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting, or changing of one letter, and supply a new definition. The 2005 winners were:

*Cashtration: The act of buying a house, which renders the subject financially impotent for an indefinite period.

*Ignoranus: A person who's both stupid and a butthead.

*Intaxication: Euphoria at getting a tax refund, which lasts until you realize it was your money to start with.

*Reintarnation: Coming back to life as a hillbilly.

*Bozone: The substance surrounding stupid people that stops bright ideas from penetrating.

*Caterpallor: The color you turn after finding half a worm in the fruit you're eating.

*Giraffiti: Vandalism spray-painted very, very high.

*Sarchasm: The gulf between the author of sarcastic wit and the person who doesn't get it.

*Inoculatte: To take coffee intravenously when you are running late.

*Hipatitis: Terminal coolness.

*Osteopornosis: A degenerate disease (This one got extra credit.)

*Karmageddon: It's like, when everybody is sending off all these really bad vibes, right? And then, like, the Earth explodes and it's like, a serious bummer.

*Decafalon: The grueling event of getting through the day consuming only things that are good for you.

*Glibido: All talk and no action.

*Dopeler effect: The tendency of stupid ideas to seem smarter when they come at you rapidly.

*Arachnoleptic fit: The frantic dance performed just after you've accidentally walked through a spider web.

The Pile Diminishes

2010-07-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hot summer days, perfect for lolling about with cool drinks and catching up on books in my pile. Here's what I've read recently:

Neil Gaiman – The Graveyard Book. One of the creepiest beginnings of any story I've read (that's meant as a compliment, by the way). Rather dark for a kid's book, and I believe Gaiman once said he didn't intend it as one. The tale of a boy raised by ghouls in a graveyard, loosely based on Kipling's "The Jungle Book". Not as terrifying overall as the jacket blurb claims, but certainly worth your time.

Noel Langley – The Land of Green Ginger. I came to this book via a recommendation from Gaiman (one of his interviews, I think). The original story has been around since 1937. This version comes from the man who wrote the screenplay for The Wizard of Oz. You could go crazy counting all the adverbs and dialogue tags, but the writing is witty and engaging. If you like flying carpets, floating gardens, genies, and Asian intrigue, this book is a treasure.

Diana Wynne Jones – Castle in the Air. A follow-up of sorts to "Howl's Moving Castle", this tale follows a merchant who buys a rug with an attitude, falls in love with a princess, and rescues her from a wicked djinn. A good book to curl up with on a lazy afternoon.

Christopher Vogler – The Writer’s Journey. A book about mythic structure discussed in a previous post (6/15). This fabulous resource belongs in every writer's bookcase.

Robin McKinley – The Hero and the Crown. Often mentioned by Kristin Cashore ("Graceling") as a major influence. The story of a scorned princess thought to be powerless who discovers otherwise and finds herself torn between love and duty. I knew McKinley from a fairy-tale retelling ("Beauty"), and this book definitely lived up to my high expectations.

Kate DiCamillo – The Mysterious Journey of Edward Tulane. I know, I know, I idolize DiCamillo. I held off on this one, though, thinking the story of a haughty china rabbit wouldn't hold my interest. Should have known better. I devoured it in one setting and closed the book with tears in my eyes.

Familiar with any of these?

To Self-Publish Or Not?

2010-07-06T16:24:00.000-07:00

I won't cover the pros and cons of self-publishing here. They've been addressed in great detail elsewhere and are easily researched. For me, the question is moot: I could have done it for free . . . and didn't.

All winners of the San Francisco Writers Conference's contests receive a complimentary iUniverse package, good for six months. Mine was a $1600 deal and I let it expire.

Why? Because, fair or unfair, there’s still a stigma attached to self-publishing.

Yeah, I know, a handful of self-pubbed authors have succeeded big time, but they’re hardly the norm. Christopher Paolini’s parents subsidized his book and tour; Brunonia Barry spent $50,000 to print and promote hers.

Are you kidding? If I had 50 grand to spare, I'd spend every summer at an Italian villa, personal chef and driver included.

I’m not knocking anyone who goes this route, and I'll always appreciate being given the opportunity, but, frankly, I want mainstream recognition. I'll do whatever it takes in terms of marketing as long as my book comes out through a traditional publisher, big or small.

So I'll take my chances dealing with agents and editors. If nothing comes of that and I still feel my story is worthy, I'll consider the option of an e-book (although I suppose some would call that self-publishing). But I can't imagine a situation where I'd shell out money to see my work in print.

How about you? Would you ever pay to be published?

Whatchamacallit

2010-06-29T14:19:00.000-07:00

A couple of interesting posts about titles this month (links below) reminded me how important it is to choose the right title for your book, something I learned the hard way.

Although my query indicated the plot involved a quest, I called my book "The Mermaid's Daughter", not realizing it would lead agents to think the story was about mermaids and nothing else. In fact, one agent rejected me in four minutes: "Sorry, I already have a mermaid book. Best of luck!"

Aargh!

So what do I call my new and improved version? Apparently titles that follow the format "The Somebody's Something" are less well-received than others. Sure, there are dozens of examples that contradict this, such as "The Time Traveler's Wife", but as a debut fiction author, I want my work to stand out from the crowd.

For now, the working title is "Zakret", the tree of power my main character seeks. I think it adds a bit of mystique that goes well with the story's adventure.

How about you? How do you decide on your book's title? Ever started with one and changed it?

Dystel & Goderich Literary Management's post: http://dglm.blogspot.com/2010/06/what-to-title-your-book.html
Pimp My Novel's post: http://pimpmynovel.blogspot.com/2010/06/rose-by-any-other-name.html

Synchronicity

2010-06-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

Carl Jung described synchronicity as “meaningful coincidence”. Two events occur and you may not see the connection until later. I'm pretty sure that happened to me this past week.

While reading Vogler’s book on mythic structure (see previous post), I kept thinking about my first story, the one shelved after querying about a dozen agents. Too few, you say? Perhaps, but upon close inspection it was clear the writing needed work, lots of work.

Even so, I always believed the tale itself had a solid foundation: a girl on a quest to retrieve an ancient power stolen from the sea.

Quest? Did someone say “quest”? What every hero undertakes?

Fingers crossed, I made a list of Vogler's 12 stages of the Hero's Journey to see if they matched elements from my book.

Eccola!

Not only does my story cover every stage, but there's also a healthy batch of archetypes (a term also coined by Jung). All I need to do is find the proper words to captivate my readers. Easy, right? ;-)

I didn’t know that buying this book would bring me back to a story waiting to be rewritten, but that's what happened. Synchronicity in action!

How about you? Ever realize that two things you thought unconnected were actually linked?

Mythic Structure – A Tool for all Writers

2010-06-15T12:44:00.000-07:00

Don’t let the title fool you. Mythic structure works for all genres, not just fantasy.

My crit partner recommended this book, which I bought and then set aside, thinking it applied solely to “quest” stories. Was I ever wrong!

I've read Joseph Campbell and know about the Hero's Journey, but Vogler's approach is geared exclusively toward writers. He explores each of the Journey's stages and gives examples from memorable books and movies in a surprising range of genres. It’s truly a format anyone can adopt.

Vogler’s scope can't be addressed in one blog post, but I think you’d be surprised at how easily stories fit this structure. Does your main character have a goal that involves stepping outside a comfort zone, challenging norms, righting wrongs? Bingo! There’s your Call to Adventure.

Having trouble figuring out a character's purpose? Check out the Archetypes and you'll find a wealth of choices, each with its own psychological and dramatic function. How cool is that?

This is a hefty volume (nearly 400 pages) and I’m only a quarter of the way through, but already I’m approaching my work with a new perspective.

I think you will, too.

Talismans, anyone?

2010-06-08T13:02:00.000-07:00

Webster’s defines talisman as “an object held to act as a charm to avert evil or bring good fortune”.

I grew up with talismans, mostly religious, rosary beads and such. Now that I write fantasy, I have a few around my computer. They serve as potent reminders that supernatural elements are integral to my stories. And if they bring me luck, well, I won’t say no. ;-)

The first two are rattles, good for shaking when my mind is stuck. One comes from Yosemite, brown and round and open-mouthed, ready to whisper words of encouragement. Another was forged from a Gerber baby spoon. How clever is that? Helps me focus on my young audience.

The other three are power stones I bought in Maui. The dragon, my Chinese astrological sign as well, symbolizes wisdom and nobility. The hummingbird stands for joy, miracles, and beauty. The seahorse brings confidence and grace. All qualities I’d like my work to reflect.

How about you? Got any lucky charms?

It’s the Writing, My Dears

2010-06-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

Literary agent Mary Kole at kidlit.com (link below) recently wrote about the perception that agents aren’t interested in manuscripts from writers who’ve never been published.

I didn’t know such a myth existed, especially one so clearly at odds with reality. Sure, some agents only take referrals, but if you read agent blogs you know they’re always looking for a good story.

Then again, it’s easier to claim agents are biased than to take a hard look at your writing. Because that’s what agents are looking for: great writing. And sometimes we send them a story that isn’t our best.

I’ve done it, though it pains me to say so. Queried with my very first piece of fiction, certain representation was a phone call away. I actually believed that as long as agents and editors were going to ask for revisions no matter what, it was okay to send them work that, while not perfect, was good enough.

*knocks head against wall*

I got a couple of full requests, some positive feedback, but no takers, and finally realized a strong story doesn't trump weak writing. What I've learned since about the craft of fiction is humbling, and only increases my appreciation for the agents who read my earlier work and passed on their best regards.

Don't know how long it will take until I resume querying. One story's in first draft mode, one's in revisions. But I'm determined to never again submit a story before it's ready.

http://kidlit.com/2010/05/07

Full Moon Madness

2010-05-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

In my footloose and fancy-free days, I called many places home. One of my favorites was a rural housing complex of small cottages and four-plexes formerly used for migrant workers. On full moon nights, the ladies would gather libations, tromp up the hill, and dance.

Now I’m in the outer suburban flatlands and my friends are far-flung but the silver orb still beckons. Even if I’ve retired for the evening, when the moonlight reaches my bedroom window I can’t help but rise up and greet it.

In a previous post about The Moon in Tarot decks, I mentioned how it can represent obstacles. But it can also bring inspiration.

Perhaps that’s why I was up last night, before the moon was truly full. I’ve had a case of the blahs these past few days. Maybe it’s just the rain and wind and pollen keeping me inside. Whatever the cause, I found some comfort sitting in my patio room, letting the moonbeams bathe me.

Which makes me wonder. Webster’s Dictionary defines lunacy as “intermittent insanity once believed to be related to the phases of the moon.”

Hmmm. Well, you know what Aristotle said: all writers are a little crazy.

Critiques

2010-05-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

I didn't have critique partners for my first book (which might explain why it's on the back burner awaiting serious revisions) and wondered if I'd find one for my current WIP. Happily, I've connected with a fellow writer who gets my story and can point out its flaws in a truly helpful manner. Huzzah!

I especially like working with her because she’s read Browne & King (see 4/10 post) and can bring up issues they address in their book on self-editing. So when she says to pay attention to narrative distance, I know just what she means.

One of her comments made me laugh out loud. My protagonist has a powerful voice, and the use and abuse of that power is central to the story. But in a scene that should ripple with tension, where any sane girl would be scared speechless, she calls out a warning. Oh dear, the enemy approaches. Whatever shall I do? I know. I’ll burst into song!

I still want to have this character sound the alarm, but I’ll need to rework the scene so it doesn’t come off like a bad Monty Python skit. Meanwhile, I'm grateful for the feedback only another writer can provide. Funny, isn't it, how you can see the gaps in someone else's story and breeze right over them in your own?

Page-a-Day Challenge

2010-05-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

For the next month, I'll be part of the writing challenge hosted by Weronika Janczuk. About 40 of us have pledged to write and fine-tune one page per day–no more, no less. I love this!

I've never been a fan of word count goals, never seen the point of rushing a story based on the assumption you can fix the weak spots in future drafts. Why not slow down and make your work as strong as possible the first time around?

For me, the challenge is a win-win situation. With Scofield's primer about scenes and Browne & King's self-editing book. I can write a page, analyze it, and improve it. *knocks on wood* What's not to like?

Thanks to Weronika for putting it all together.

In the Middle

2010-05-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

I’ve finished Part One of my WIP, set the stage for the meat of the story; or, as some call it, the dreaded middle, the place where even the pros have problems.

This time around I’m actually looking forward to writing Part Two. Ha! What’s that old saying, fools rush in where angels fear to tread?

Part of my enthusiasm comes from reading THE SCENE BOOK, by Sandra Scofield. I appreciate guidelines and Scofield has helped me identify the elements of an effective scene: event and emotion, function, structure, pulse. Powerful stuff to keep in mind before, during, and after writing.

So, armed with Scofield’s basics, self-editing techniques from Browne and King (see 4-20 post), and a general outline, I'm feeling more confident about the chapters to come.

How about you? Do you approach the middle with glee? Fear and loathing? A sigh of resignation?

Theory/Schmeory

2010-05-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

There's no shortage of theories about writing. Take the one that says you need to write a million words before you’re any good. At 1,000 words a day, every day, you'll need almost three uninterrupted years to reach the million-word mark (2.70 years to be exact).

Woe to those of us who write less.

I'd like to propose another theory: Ignore everything that suggests you’re not good enough until ________ [fill in the blank]. Just write. You’ll get better. Stick with it, get honest feedback, and your writing will improve.

Don't believe me? Find something you wrote a year ago and compare it with what you wrote today.

Told you so.

Jeanne DuPrau at SCBWI

2010-04-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

The Northern California SCBWI Spring Conference last Saturday had many fine speakers, including Jeanne DuPrau, best-selling author of The City of Ember and its three companion books. If you're not familiar with Ember, it's the post-apocalyptic story of two children who discover a way out of their underground city. It's science fiction, mystery, and adventure combined for a most enjoyable read.

In a session on plot, DuPrau spoke of spending 10 years on Ember, with countless reworkings of the first chapter. [5/3/10 NOTE: Ack! I heard "10 years" sitting in the back of a room with no microphone. According to her blog, DuPrau spent two years writing Ember. Next time, I'll sit up front!] Although she knew the beginning and ending, she had problems with the middle. Doesn't it make you feel better knowing even successful writers have these issues?

When revising Ember, DuPrau said her concerns fell into several basic categories: characters who spent too much time thinking, worrying, or being afraid; passive characters; too much description and explanation; not enough action/events happening too slowly; inner v. outer obstacles. Sound familiar?

One tip DuPrau mentioned as helpful when she was feeling stuck was asking specific questions. "What's going to happen next?" is too general. "How can A get to B without C seeing?" and its variants speak directly to the plot points you're trying to resolve.

Finally, DuPrau noted that even when an author knows the ending, you have to make it "organic, but surprising". Piece of cake, right?

So the next time you're feeling vexed, just remember, you're in good company.

A Carbon-Neutral Blog

2010-04-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

I don't usually post more than once a week, but the most marvelous VR Barkowski wrote today about a wonderful program that will help reforest areas decimated by northern California fires.

I've put up the button and hope you'll join me. Just click on the green leaf and you'll be taken to the site of Make It Green (Mach's Grun), which is partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation for this project. Step-by-step instructions make it easy.

What a great way to celebrate Earth Day. Thanks, VR!

Self-Editing for Fiction Writers

2010-04-20T11:28:00.000-07:00

A member of my local SCBWI group suggested buying this book and I’m glad she did. (Thanks, Rahma!)

There’s a lot to like. I found the chapter on Point of View especially helpful. In my first book (shelved for the time being), I had a tendency to jump around heads during a scene instead of focusing on a single viewpoint and letting other characters reveal themselves through action and dialogue.

Before reading Browne and King, I didn't consider using POV for descriptive passages. Because I write in the third person, I assumed my descriptions would be rather distant and factual, maybe spiced up with some poetic imagery. Now I’m learning the importance of letting readers experience settings and action through the perspective of the characters. Even more significant, these observations will ring most true when they're written in the language the characters themselves would use. Eureka!

I realize this marks me as a novice, but we all have to start somewhere. Wherever you are in your writer’s journey, I heartily suggest consulting this book. I think you’ll find it immensely rewarding.

The Writer's Journey

2010-04-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

“Every protagonist embarks on a journey that sends her both externally and internally into, as yet, undiscovered places. A writer does, too." - Martha Alderson

Don't you just love this? It’s almost Zen. When you set pen to paper, you also become the lead character in the ongoing tale of a writer’s life. You're on a voyage of discovery.

Like your characters, you'll run into obstacles. Writing is work, hard work. It's not for the faint of heart. It's a craft, and like any craft it takes practice, practice, practice. You have to keep going, even when you don't feel like it. (Especially when you don't feel like it.) You have to stay with it, even when the words you write are so far removed from the story in your head you suspect major brain damage. Even when you're convinced a roomful of monkeys could produce a story better than yours.

Need a break? Take it. Go back and look at some of your earlier work and congratulate yourself on how far you've progressed.

But don't stop. Trust that the path you're following will lead you to all the right places.

http://plotwhisperer.blogspot.com/2010/04/stamina-for-writers.html

First Pages

2010-04-06T12:50:00.000-07:00

We all know the importance of first pages. I've read of published writers reworking those crucial paragraphs up to 50 times! The local SCBWI Spring Conference will feature oral critiques of first pages and I'm definitely submitting mine.

Since I'm required to follow SCBWI guidelines (see below for link), my text starts about 3/4 of the way down the page. That's not much room, but if I want to hook my reader, I need a strong beginning.

I think this works, but I'd appreciate your feedback. This is intended for a tween/YA audience:

Nadya paced the shore, mindful of her last-minute talk with Sister Dain. Yes, she understood the importance of this day. Yes, she’d return to the Order as soon as the gem appeared. No, she wouldn’t linger to swim with the dolphins, a pledge she made with fingers crossed behind her back. Surely a girl’s first jewel deserved a small indulgence.

Waves lapped at her toes, leaving foamy swirls. She scanned the sky and waited for the day to peak. After sixteen years of training, she knew the routine well. No food or drink the night before. Wear white to blend in with the sand. Track the sun to capture the exact moment of midsummer magic. Stand tall. Ready? Now summon the amber with your song.

What do you think?

http://www.scbwi.org/Resources/Documents/04_FromKeyboardtoPrinted09.pdf

Branded

2010-03-30T11:39:00.000-07:00

During last October's Muse Online Conference, I won Karina Fabian's "Marketing Basics" course, but only recently hunkered down for the lessons. Of course, one of the issues she addresses is platform. Ugh.

I've always associated platform with expertise. Since I'm more of a know-it-mostly type, how do I brand myself? According to Fabian, I need to determine what makes my work unique.

Now, I know many writers bemoan the limitations of being relegated to a niche, and I believe their concerns are valid, but these days you have to be willing–at least in the beginning–to let yourself be labeled.

While it's easy enough to say I write fantasy, it's hardly distinctive. So, piggy-backing off Fabian's capsule platforms (e.g., J.A. Konrath writes murder mysteries named after bar drinks), I came up with this blurb: Kathryn Jankowski writes children's fiction based on Slavic folklore.

I'm not sure this is exactly how I want to word it. Perhaps "featuring elements of" rather than "based on"? Or "mythology" instead of "folklore"? "YA and MG fantasy" instead of "children's fiction" (although I think the latter is less restrictive)? In any event, it's a start and gives me news ideas for outreach.

If you had to sum up your platform in one sentence, what would you write?

One or the Other?

2010-03-23T12:34:00.000-07:00

When I realized my first work of fiction was really three stories in one and muddled because of that, I put it aside, vowed to fix it later, and started writing another book linked conceptually to the first one. I'm a couple of months into my new story, and while I like the direction it's taking, my output has slowed considerably, perhaps because I'm exerting extra care to ensure every chapter, every scene, every sentence moves the central narrative forward.

I keep thinking about that first story. It needs some serious tweaking, but it's done! As a Gemini, you'd think I could easily flit back and forth between two story lines, but there's a nagging voice inside that says stick with this new book until the draft is finished and then go back to the other. Another voice says fix the first one and then continue with the second. I'm feeling slightly crazed because I don't want to end up with a stack of stories in different stages of development.

How about you? Do you work on more than one story at a time? How do you manage it?

Reading Challenge - January & February

2010-03-15T18:51:00.000-07:00

While I haven't officially joined the 12 x 12 Reading Challenge, I have been keeping track of books read so far this year. Here are some I've enjoyed:

January Reads
Zoli
Colum McCann based this intriguing, often heart-rending story on the life of the Gypsy poet, Papusza.
The Magician's Elephant
Kate DiCamillo is a master of scenes and seamless storytelling. She weaves the story of an orphan searching for his sister with a magician who conjures an elephant and makes you believe anything is possible.
The Silver Phoenix
Cindy Pon's imaginative and engaging debut involves an Asian heroine with magical powers who battles demons and sorcerers while on a quest to free her captive father.

February Reads
The Prydain Chronicles (5-book series)
Lloyd Alexander's classic set from the '60s suffers from some stereotypical female characterizations, but on the whole this is well worth a read to see how a good series jells.
Lankhmar, Book One
Laughed out loud at some of Fritz Lieber's "sexy" dialogue. Overall, it's an enjoyable swords and sorcery tale about a prince who joins up with an apprentice magician.
Wicked Lovely
I'm not a huge fan of Faerie, but Melissa Marr has a fresh take that kept my interest. Will be checking library for sequels.

How Do You Draft?

2010-03-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

We all know that agents and editors want our manuscripts double-spaced, and that's how I've always written my drafts. Just recently, however, I decided to switch to single spacing. What a difference!

Sometimes it seems like I lose the thread of a scene or chapter as I go through screen after screen. By keeping the text single-spaced I have a much better sense of flow. Since I'm obsessed with moving the story forward, this is incredibly helpful.

An added bonus is that the onscreen page now looks more like an actual printed page. Call me crazy, but that's huge for my motivation. Look at this; it's really a book!

How about you? How do you draft?

Do You Draw?

2010-03-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

Like artists, writers begin with a blank palette. Using black words against a white background, we create colorful visions in our reader’s mind. I’m sure some authors do it all in their heads, but I need visuals. Not just story boards and plot trackers. Real pictures. Which can be a problem when you’re writing a fantasy.

The solution? Draw it myself. Towns, rooms, statues, forests, roads, societies secluded behind stone walls, even characters. I’m not claiming any talent here. My sketch of a Baltic Sea god was declared a cross between Sarah Jessica Parker and Poseidon. Not exactly the effect I’d hope for.

Drawing lets me step back from a blinking screen and view my story from a different perspective. It helps me fine tune scenes and double-check the logic of my imaginings. (Even fantasies need to be based in reality.)

How about you? Do you ever draw during the writing process?

Going Once, Going Twice

2010-02-26T12:27:00.000-08:00

My Newberry book winner, Lynnette Labelle, hasn't claimed her prize.
Lynette, where are you?
If I don't hear from you by Sunday, Feb. 28, I'll do another drawing.

Newberry Giveaway Winner!

2010-02-23T10:54:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who participated in the WHEN YOU REACH ME giveaway, especially those who posted info about the contest on their blogs. The winner is:

Lynnette Labelle!

Congratulations, Lynnette! Please email your address to kej35@hotmail.com. Hope you enjoy the book.

Grammar v. Creativity - False Foes?

2010-02-17T12:12:00.000-08:00

As a former teacher, I have strong feelings about how writing is taught. I’ve seen the pendulum swing from “free” writing (creativity trumps all) back to strict formalized instruction and I can tell you, extremes don’t work. You can't write anything without the creative urge, but unless you understand how language works, you won’t get far.

Grammar is the foundation of good writing. Knowing the basics of written language frees you to create. Dancers begin with rudimentary steps. Singers begin with scales. Writers begin with grammar. In order to communicate effectively, you need to understand how language works.

Creativity and grammar are not mutually exclusive; they are, in fact, complementary. Together, they build sentences that soar, paragraphs that flow, stories that captivate, create meaning where none existed before.

You can be the most creative writer on earth, but if a reader stumbles through your work, as far as I’m concerned, you need to go back and bone up on the basics.

Thanks to Eileen Astels for beginning the conversation. Nothing like a spirited discussion to keep things lively, I say.

What do you say?

Newberry Book Giveaway

2010-02-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

As mentioned in an earlier post, I’m celebrating a renewed focus for my book with my first-ever contest. Also, I won two books last year, The Swan Thieves at Misfit Salon, and The Sisters Grimm at Wonders and Marvels, so it’s time to pay it forward.

Part of me wishes I didn’t have this book to give away. Our last local bookstore closed mid-January and I was sorry to see it go. Happily, the inventory went on sale and I was able to snag some books at bargain prices. I knew Rebecca Stead’s WHEN YOU REACH ME was up for the Newberry Medal, and had read some glowing reviews, so I picked up a copy and kept my fingers crossed.

Now you have the opportunity to win Rebecca’s book! Brand new! Hardcover!

The giveaway is open to followers only. Just click on the “Follow” button and you’re entered. (Yes, I know your Google reader is bloated–mine, too–but I typically don’t post more than once a week, so I promise you won’t be overwhelmed.)

Comments will be assigned points as follows:
- become a follower (1 entry)
- already be a follower (5 entries)
- post about the giveaway on your blog (please put link with your comment) (5 entries)

Contest ends Feb. 22, 9:00 PST. Winner will be chosen via the random number generator at psychicscience.org. No, it’s not spooky; it’s free and doesn’t require your email address.

So tell me, how goes your writing?

Day 33 & Giveaway Preview

2010-02-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

I decided at the beginning of 2010 (see Jan. 1 post) to follow a Yoga principle and set the tone for the year by focusing on my writing for the first 32 days. I can hardly believe it’s time to recoup! Some random thoughts on the month:

1. The Internet is easier to ignore than I expected.

2. I actually wrote 1,000 new words some days. Watch out, Stephen King!

3. Steven Halpern’s “Spectrum Suite” made great background music.

4. It's been amazing run, but I'll happily reclaim my weekends.

I met my goal of 50,000 words (my first version was 27,000). That’s the low end of fantasy and YA, although it works for tweens, that nebulous category of readers aged 13-16. So, my second draft is finished . . . and I'll be tossing most of it.

After a spirited discussion with my companion, I realized the powerful premise of my beginning got buried under elements I thought would appeal to young readers. In other words, I'd written a story, but not my story. The funny thing is that my original notes all center around a girl and her magic jewel, yet somehow I got carried away with mermaids and Gypsies and shape-shifting tricksters.

You hear it from agents everywhere. Write your story. According to Natalie Bahm, this was brought up time and time again at the New York SCBWI conference. Guess I needed to discover it for myself.

I suspect the trickster will be staying, but the mermaids and Gypsies deserve their own stories; they'll be filed for future development. Meanwhile, Nadya and her amber await. Let the adventure begin!

P.S. To celebrate my epiphany, I’ll be giving away a copy of this year’s Newberry Medal winner, Rebecca Stead’s WHEN YOU REACH ME. Details to follow.

Readability

2010-01-11T16:53:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about getting together with other writers is the tips and tricks we share. At a recent SCBWI meeting*, I learned about an application in Microsoft Word that scores the readability of your writing.

How cool is that? And it’s so simple. When you run a Spelling and Grammar check, click on Options> Grammar>Readability Statistics. When the spell-check is done, you’ll see a balloon with word counts, averages, and readability numbers. It even counts passive sentences!

Just for fun, I ran this blog post. Grade level = 6.3; Flesch Reading Ease = 70.1 (higher scores mean easier reading). Next, I put the first chapter of my book through the application and came out with a grade level of 3.6 and reading ease of 84.5. Are those good scores for a fantasy?

Well, the good folks at Amazon have provided the means to compare our works with some of the greats. Just find the book, scroll down to “Inside This Book” and click on Text Stats. Same thing, different format.

I looked up “The Changeling Sea”, one of my favorite books by Patricia McKilip. The results? A 4.5 grade level and 81.4 readability score. “The Arkadians” by Lloyd Alexander checks in with 5.7 and 73.3. So it looks like my book is easier to read and requires less education. Hmmmm. I wonder if that’s because I spent so many years working with struggling readers.

Unfortunately, this feature isn’t available for most new books – and, surprisingly, none of the Harry Potter books has it - but there’s bound to be something in your genre that will work.

Give it a try. What did you learn about your writing?

*Thank you, Rahma!

The First 32 Days

2010-01-01T17:12:00.000-08:00

In Ann Patchett’s recent column in the Washington Post, she mentions a yoga concept that states whatever a person does with thoughtful consistency for the first 32 days of the year sets the course for the entire year.

What it boils down to is this: the more you focus on your work, the more you accomplish. Hardly a novel concept, but life’s obligations – little and big, chosen or imposed – can make it seem like you haven’t a moment to spare, let alone unbroken hours. Patchett’s solution? Treat writing like a job.

Again, this isn’t a unique idea, but as the new decade begins, I want to approach my work like a professional. I left teaching to pursue my craft, but in some ways my writing has been haphazard. Oh, I know not every author writes every day, and I actually feel my story benefits if I take a break now and then. But if I’m serious about writing as a career, I can’t let myself get distracted.

So, as of today, WRITING comes first (that includes composing, revising, and research).

Not clicking through the blogosphere.
Not checking email.
Not even (be still, my heart) the New York Times Crossword Puzzle.

I’m going to shoot for the full-blown, 32-day trial, which means I'll emerge from my den on Groundhog Day. Will I see my shadow and burrow back for six more weeks, or will my work be a harbinger of spring?

One day down, 31 to go.

Anyone willing to try with me?

2010 or Bust!

2009-12-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

This has been a breakout year for me in terms of writing. I won an award for my first work of fiction, started a blog, and have a manuscript nearly ready for beta readers. (Volunteers gladly accepted; must like fantasy.)

Writing, of course, takes precedence in my 2010 resolutions. But we don't live by words alone, so I’m setting other goals as well. None involve abstaining from pleasures, guilty or otherwise. How will the chocolate industry thrive if we swear off our daily indulgence?

My goals:

1. Treat writing as a job (more on that tomorrow).

2. Take a daily walk or bike ride.

3. Practice the accordion at least 30 minutes each night until I can play songs at a tempo other than a dirge.

4. Savor dark chocolate every day, stopping at - or before - “Serving Size” (so far so good with my Christmas box of See’s).

5. Read books twice: first as a reader, then as a writer (although it seems the more my writing develops, the more attention I pay to craft during the first read).

6. Attend the summer SCBWI conference in Los Angeles.

Do any of these mesh with yours?

Wishing you a very happy New Year. I’ll be at home celebrating with my partner, watching “Casablanca” and drinking Asti Spumante. Salute!

Venetian Journal Giveaway

2009-12-29T10:08:00.000-08:00

No, I didn't go to Venice *sigh* but Angela over at The Gypsy's Guide did and she's giving away this lovely handmade journal from the city of gondolas. Hop on over and enter!

Heifer Pledge

2009-12-28T09:34:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to all who stopped by to help with my Heifer pledge last week. Your comments helped raise $100 for this wonderful organization.

Heifer Help

2009-12-23T11:15:00.000-08:00

I've been inspired by agent Nathan Bransford's post to make a per-comment pledge to Heifer International, a wonderful organization that helps fight hunger by giving animals to people and training them to become self-sufficient.

Over the years, we've given ducks, chicks, rabbits, honeybees, even shares of llamas and water buffalos for Christmas presents. It's a great way to observe the holidays and feel like you're doing something meaningful.

So, for every comment, I'll donate $1.00 to Heifer, up to a total of $100.00. Comment period ends as of midnight, Dec. 25.

Suggestions for comments: What would you like to find in your stocking or under the tree this year? What was the best Christmas present you've received or given?

Happy Holidays, everyone!