Photo by me.In case you can't quite remember that poem ...
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
The Black Belt Approach to Writing a Pitch
On Saturday, I watched a Belt Test at my sons’ Tae Kwon Do studio. Students were asked to name the most important thing they’d learned in the past six months. For me, it is learning to write a pitch. I'm certainly not a Black Belt pitch writer, but at least I’m no longer stumbling aimlessly around the query letter mat.
1. Float like a butterfly. I started by writing the voiceover script for a book trailer. This exercise gave me one very good sentence, and it reminded me why I liked my WIP - which I'd mostly forgotten in the pitched battle of writing pitches.
2. Sting like a bee. I read Elana Johnson’s book, From the Query to the Call. Elana provides a simple formula and worksheets for pitch writing. Here are Casey McCormick’s review and Beth Revis’ author interview.
3. Don’t let your guard down. I checked my work by reading Mary Kole’s post on queries. Mary Kole is an associate agent at Andrea Brown Literary Agency.
4. Rest between sparring matches. I let the query letter sit. Usually, I like my pitches right after I write them, but the problems become obvious in a few hours.
1. Float like a butterfly. I started by writing the voiceover script for a book trailer. This exercise gave me one very good sentence, and it reminded me why I liked my WIP - which I'd mostly forgotten in the pitched battle of writing pitches.
2. Sting like a bee. I read Elana Johnson’s book, From the Query to the Call. Elana provides a simple formula and worksheets for pitch writing. Here are Casey McCormick’s review and Beth Revis’ author interview.
3. Don’t let your guard down. I checked my work by reading Mary Kole’s post on queries. Mary Kole is an associate agent at Andrea Brown Literary Agency.
4. Rest between sparring matches. I let the query letter sit. Usually, I like my pitches right after I write them, but the problems become obvious in a few hours.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Writing Advice
Lately I’ve been getting advice from Jeremy about my writing.
On revising CBL, he said, “Use foreshadowing and metaphor. If your readers are anything like my English teachers, they’ll jump off the roof and start square dancing.”
On writing a query letter, he said, “You gotta put in the shiny stuff.”
On revising CBL, he said, “Use foreshadowing and metaphor. If your readers are anything like my English teachers, they’ll jump off the roof and start square dancing.”
On writing a query letter, he said, “You gotta put in the shiny stuff.”
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Writing Exercise: Desire
A lot of writers hate writing exercises, so if you fall into that category, just click to the next blog in your Google reader. I find writing exercises most useful in the initial stages of writing because they help me get to know new characters. This is the exercise I brought to Write Night. We concentrated on first person point of view, although it would also work for third person narration.
1. Choose a character, and list his or her name, age, gender and time period. Also write something the character wants but does not or cannot have. Have your character describe what he or she wants. Include details and the reasons why your character wants it. Concentrate on voice.
2. Repeat with a different character who wants the same thing. Make sure the voice is different.
3. Write a scene in which the two characters interact about what they want. Choose one point of view, but make sure the personality of the other character shows.
1. Choose a character, and list his or her name, age, gender and time period. Also write something the character wants but does not or cannot have. Have your character describe what he or she wants. Include details and the reasons why your character wants it. Concentrate on voice.
2. Repeat with a different character who wants the same thing. Make sure the voice is different.
3. Write a scene in which the two characters interact about what they want. Choose one point of view, but make sure the personality of the other character shows.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Query Contest
Mary Kole, an associate agent at the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, is holding a query contest. The winner gets a 30 page critique. Click here for the details.
Thanks to Beth for the link.
Thanks to Beth for the link.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
You Ate What?
After Jeremy went out to dinner with some friends, he said, “The quesadilla was horrible. It was filled with vegetables like Brussels sprouts.”
Quesadillas with Brussels sprouts?
It’s an interesting theory.
Sam is taking Korean in college. For a homework assignment, he had to go to a Korean grocery and ask the proprietor a few questions in Korean. While he was there, he decided to stock his dorm room larder. He bought lots of goodies including …
squid jerky.
He says it’s good.
Quesadillas with Brussels sprouts?
It’s an interesting theory.
Sam is taking Korean in college. For a homework assignment, he had to go to a Korean grocery and ask the proprietor a few questions in Korean. While he was there, he decided to stock his dorm room larder. He bought lots of goodies including …
squid jerky.
He says it’s good.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Suffering for Your Art
The instrument in the photo is a Sousaphone. This member of the tuba family weighs 35 pounds and the large bell can act as a sail on windy days.As an ongoing service to other YA writers who may not have ready access to teenage conversations, and to assuage my eavesdropping guilt, I'll provide a transcript of a Sousaphone-related conversation.
Cast of Characters:
J = Jeremy of teen driving fame
S = female section leader of the tuba section
N = tall and skinny freshman Sousaphone player
Mr. ___ = band director
J: That wind was bad today. I was worried about N. I was worried about you too. I saw you moving.
S: I fell over once when I was a freshman.
J: You did?
S: Yeah. And people marched over me. Mr. ___ didn't notice and I had to yell so he'd stop the band. Then I couldn't get up because the Sousaphone was on top of me. Mr. ___ pulled me up, then I almost overbalanced and fell the other way, but he ran around and caught me.
J: That's terrible.
S: And when I got home my mom said, "Your pants are muddy. I'm mad at you." I can never tell if she means it.
Doesn't it seem a lot easier to be a writer?
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Fall Conference Report - Harold Underdown
Harold Underdown spoke about turning off the literary critics in our heads and focusing on the emotional impact of writing. The exercise is simple and tremendously powerful.
Read a few lines of writing.
Jot down what you are feeling.
Repeat with the next section of writing.
See how your emotions change.
This technique is terrific for revising your own work and for analyzing other people's writing. It's fun to do as a group because reactions vary so much.
The hard part is quieting that internal literary critic. In the first example Harold gave (The Children of Green Knowe by L.M. Boston), the scene opens with a boy riding a train by himself, and outside it's raining. My first reaction was: Oh no another sad scene in the rain. Tired metaphor. But when I forced the literary critic to sit down and shut up, I realized it wasn't a sad scene, and the rain was simply part of the setting.
Go ahead. Try it. And let me know how it works.
Read a few lines of writing.
Jot down what you are feeling.
Repeat with the next section of writing.
See how your emotions change.
This technique is terrific for revising your own work and for analyzing other people's writing. It's fun to do as a group because reactions vary so much.
The hard part is quieting that internal literary critic. In the first example Harold gave (The Children of Green Knowe by L.M. Boston), the scene opens with a boy riding a train by himself, and outside it's raining. My first reaction was: Oh no another sad scene in the rain. Tired metaphor. But when I forced the literary critic to sit down and shut up, I realized it wasn't a sad scene, and the rain was simply part of the setting.
Go ahead. Try it. And let me know how it works.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Fall Conference
Last week, I promised conference reports here on this blog. My brain (and my house) are still pretty cluttered, but I hope to distill a few drops of wisdom to present here in the next few days. Unfortunately, something seems to be wrong with my camera or my eyes because most of the pictures I took are out of focus.
The conference organizers did a marvelous job. I know how much effort goes into planning an event like this.
The conference organizers did a marvelous job. I know how much effort goes into planning an event like this.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Friday, October 2, 2009
SCBWI-Michigan Conference
Today I'm heading out for the SCBWI-MI fall conference. It's supposed to rain all weekend, but I'll be inside learning how to improve my craft, right? I plan to bring my camera and notebook, and with any luck, a few conference-related posts will appear here next week.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The Road Test
We showed up at the driving school with all the necessary paperwork. Then there were forms to sign. As Jeremy scrawled his name, the examiner said, “That says you won’t be alone in a car with a girl until you’re 30.” Jeremy was so nervous, he didn’t even look up.
The road test went pretty well, although I won’t dwell on that frightening left turn in front of an oncoming truck. We drove a long way on the highway, the one driving experience Jeremy has had little of. When we finally returned to the driving school, the examiner recited such a litany of “things you need to work on” that Jeremy and I both thought he failed.
But he passed.
Then the examiner said, “Mom, you did a good job.” I sat up straighter, thinking he was going to compliment my driving instruction. “You didn’t scream,” he said.
On the way home, Jeremy had to drive along a tricky stretch of roadway where two lanes suddenly become one.
Me: Let that trailer go ahead of you.
Jeremy: I just passed my driving test, so I must have some level of ability, but you’re going to baby me forever.
Me: I still baby Sam.
Jeremy: sigh
The road test went pretty well, although I won’t dwell on that frightening left turn in front of an oncoming truck. We drove a long way on the highway, the one driving experience Jeremy has had little of. When we finally returned to the driving school, the examiner recited such a litany of “things you need to work on” that Jeremy and I both thought he failed.
But he passed.
Then the examiner said, “Mom, you did a good job.” I sat up straighter, thinking he was going to compliment my driving instruction. “You didn’t scream,” he said.
On the way home, Jeremy had to drive along a tricky stretch of roadway where two lanes suddenly become one.
Me: Let that trailer go ahead of you.
Jeremy: I just passed my driving test, so I must have some level of ability, but you’re going to baby me forever.
Me: I still baby Sam.
Jeremy: sigh
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Looking Ahead
I'm squinting out at a busy week.
The SCBWI-Michigan conference begins on Friday, and I need to gather up odds and ends like driving instructions, a packed suitcase and snacks. The pitch session requires a printed copy of a manuscript. I'll also prepare a table of contents with brief notes about each chapter and page numbers. That way I can easily find whatever it is I'm supposed to be looking for in the printed copy.
I'm channeling my inner pachyderm for the first page session. Sometimes that forum gets brutal, because each panelist has a limited amount of time to say something meaningful about every manuscript. It's all meant to improve the manuscript, not crush the writer.
Jeremy takes his driving test on Wednesday.
A tuba audition will be added to the usual potpourri of music lessons, band rehearsals, homework and Tae Kwon Do.
At least I'm ready for next Sunday's nature post. Last night a raccoon came onto our deck and begged to be photographed. He even walked to the part of the deck that is lit by the outside light. Who knew my blog was so popular with wildlife?
The SCBWI-Michigan conference begins on Friday, and I need to gather up odds and ends like driving instructions, a packed suitcase and snacks. The pitch session requires a printed copy of a manuscript. I'll also prepare a table of contents with brief notes about each chapter and page numbers. That way I can easily find whatever it is I'm supposed to be looking for in the printed copy.
I'm channeling my inner pachyderm for the first page session. Sometimes that forum gets brutal, because each panelist has a limited amount of time to say something meaningful about every manuscript. It's all meant to improve the manuscript, not crush the writer.
Jeremy takes his driving test on Wednesday.
A tuba audition will be added to the usual potpourri of music lessons, band rehearsals, homework and Tae Kwon Do.
At least I'm ready for next Sunday's nature post. Last night a raccoon came onto our deck and begged to be photographed. He even walked to the part of the deck that is lit by the outside light. Who knew my blog was so popular with wildlife?
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Sunday
woodchuck
If you've been wondering how much wood ...
This woodchuck is quite shy and doesn't like to pose for the camera.Photos by me.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Oh, Now I Get It
So tell me, when you finally figure out what ails a writing project, do you:
1. bang your head against the monitor and grumble, "Why didn't I think of this sooner?"
2. put on your thinking cap and say, "Well of course that's the problem, but how do I implement the solution in my manuscript?
3. pull up your socks and get to work.
4. dance around the house shouting, "YES!"
This isn't a real poll, because all the steps are probably necessary.
I'm at step 1 and hoping to move to step 2 before the weekend is over.
1. bang your head against the monitor and grumble, "Why didn't I think of this sooner?"
2. put on your thinking cap and say, "Well of course that's the problem, but how do I implement the solution in my manuscript?
3. pull up your socks and get to work.
4. dance around the house shouting, "YES!"
This isn't a real poll, because all the steps are probably necessary.
I'm at step 1 and hoping to move to step 2 before the weekend is over.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Obsession
Every time I read a book by Laurie Halse Anderson, I learn something important about writing. I recently finished Wintergirls, and it has me thinking about character obsession.
In Wintergirls, Lia’s obsession with weight loss almost results in her death, so I’m going to rate that a 10 on the obsession scale. She thinks constantly about food and counting calories. Her behavior (getting people to think she’s eating and gaining more than she actually is) mimics the mental obsession.
In some books, at least at the beginning, the protagonist’s life is Brownian motion. The main character is buffeted by whims of fate and doesn’t act to change that. I’d rate that a 1 on my obsession scale. The example that jumps to mind is Prom, also by Laurie Halse Anderson. When the novel starts, Ashley likes her boyfriend, her family and friends, but isn’t concerned about much else.
Wintergirls taught me to look at character growth in terms of obsession. I’m going to spend the next few days analyzing the protagonist in TAoCBS, ranking his mental and behavioral obsessions and calculating how they change.
In Wintergirls, Lia’s obsession with weight loss almost results in her death, so I’m going to rate that a 10 on the obsession scale. She thinks constantly about food and counting calories. Her behavior (getting people to think she’s eating and gaining more than she actually is) mimics the mental obsession.
In some books, at least at the beginning, the protagonist’s life is Brownian motion. The main character is buffeted by whims of fate and doesn’t act to change that. I’d rate that a 1 on my obsession scale. The example that jumps to mind is Prom, also by Laurie Halse Anderson. When the novel starts, Ashley likes her boyfriend, her family and friends, but isn’t concerned about much else.
Wintergirls taught me to look at character growth in terms of obsession. I’m going to spend the next few days analyzing the protagonist in TAoCBS, ranking his mental and behavioral obsessions and calculating how they change.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Literary Rambles
Today, I'm over at Literary Rambles. Casey McCormick used my entry for Research Tip Tuesday. Thanks, Casey.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Raptorex
60-70 million years before Tyrannosaurus rex dominated the dinosaur world, a smaller version of the famous and fearsome predator lived and hunted in what is now China. The newly discovered fossil resembles T. rex but is 1/100th the size (8 feet long and 175 pounds). Scientists named the dinosaur, Raptorex, the king of thieves. Raptorex shares many characteristics with its gigantic evolutionary cousin, such as huge jaws, well developed brain and olfactory center, powerful hind legs and tiny arms. These traits therefore developed before massive size.
The skeleton is nearly complete. Isn’t it beautiful?
Dr. Paul Serano discusses Raptorex and shares his ideas about the purpose of those tiny arms in this video.
References:
Science Express
New York Times
The Guardian
Not Exactly Rocket Science blog
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Magic and Gadgets
Recently, I’ve been on a spy kick. The Spy Goddess Series by Michael P. Spradlin involves elements of both fantasy and espionage, and it got me thinking about similarities between the two genres.
Fantasy and spy novels often involve an unlikely hero or heroine fighting Overwhelming Forces of Evil, and the hero or heroine gets help from magic or gadgets. Early in the novel, the protagonist has to learn how to use magic or get access to the gadgets. Things look good for a while, until the Overwhelming Forces of Evil use even better magic or gadgets. In the end, evil is conquered by the protagonist’s ingenuity rather than the magic or the gadgets.
How’s that for a simplistic genre analysis?
Fantasy and spy novels often involve an unlikely hero or heroine fighting Overwhelming Forces of Evil, and the hero or heroine gets help from magic or gadgets. Early in the novel, the protagonist has to learn how to use magic or get access to the gadgets. Things look good for a while, until the Overwhelming Forces of Evil use even better magic or gadgets. In the end, evil is conquered by the protagonist’s ingenuity rather than the magic or the gadgets.
How’s that for a simplistic genre analysis?
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Writing Exercise: Sins and Virtues
Last night, I brought the exercise to Write Night, and it didn’t work as well as I’d hoped. So, to make amends, I’m posting the new and improved version.
Step 1: Brainstorm words and phrases that apply to your current project. Consider setting, period, clothing, slang, food, entertainment, smells, tastes, textures, sounds and sights. Use anything that is characteristic of your Work In Progress. For a terrific example, see Angela Ackerman’s blog, The Bookshelf Muse
Write the words and phrases on small slips of paper.
Step 2: Write the Seven Deadly Sins* or the Seven Heavenly Virtues** on other slips of paper***. Last night, we wrote two scenes, one for Sins and one for Virtues.
Step 3: Each participant draws one of the Sins or Virtues and three of the phrases and writes a scene about the Sin or Virtue (without mentioning it) and using the three phrases.
Step 4: Participants read the scenes aloud and the others guess the Sin or Virtue.
*As a refresher, the Sins are Pride, Envy, Wrath, Sloth, Greed, Gluttony and Lust.
** The Virtues are Humility, Kindness, Patience, Diligence, Charity, Temperance and Chastity.
***Why the Sins and Virtues? No good reason. I was inspired by a humorous essay Sam wrote last year about how owning a car would help him indulge in the Seven Deadly Sins.
Step 1: Brainstorm words and phrases that apply to your current project. Consider setting, period, clothing, slang, food, entertainment, smells, tastes, textures, sounds and sights. Use anything that is characteristic of your Work In Progress. For a terrific example, see Angela Ackerman’s blog, The Bookshelf Muse
Write the words and phrases on small slips of paper.
Step 2: Write the Seven Deadly Sins* or the Seven Heavenly Virtues** on other slips of paper***. Last night, we wrote two scenes, one for Sins and one for Virtues.
Step 3: Each participant draws one of the Sins or Virtues and three of the phrases and writes a scene about the Sin or Virtue (without mentioning it) and using the three phrases.
Step 4: Participants read the scenes aloud and the others guess the Sin or Virtue.
*As a refresher, the Sins are Pride, Envy, Wrath, Sloth, Greed, Gluttony and Lust.
** The Virtues are Humility, Kindness, Patience, Diligence, Charity, Temperance and Chastity.
***Why the Sins and Virtues? No good reason. I was inspired by a humorous essay Sam wrote last year about how owning a car would help him indulge in the Seven Deadly Sins.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Weekly Goals
1. Improve the parents in TAoCBS. Last night while reading, I realized the dad needs to show some weakness, indecision and regret. This morning while doing sit-ups, it occurred to me that the mom doesn’t get angry enough. If these problems don’t consume all of my writing time for the week, then …
2. Start a new revision of CBL with an eye to increasing the protagonist’s plausibility. In the mean time, maintain …
3. Parental involvement in 3 music lessons, 2 band practices (1 involves tuba transport), 1 choir parent meeting, 2 trips to Ann Arbor, and 1 trip to the Tae Kwon Do studio. Return 11 pairs of band pants that I washed after Friday’s football game and mail Sam his Black Belt which he accidentally left here. Which brings me to a partridge in a pear tree …
4. Photograph something other than an insect for my Sunday nature picture. I seem to be in a bug rut, and I hope to find a different subject this week. The wetland by Pet Smart often hosts water birds. Perhaps I’ll take a detour after dropping off the band pants …
2. Start a new revision of CBL with an eye to increasing the protagonist’s plausibility. In the mean time, maintain …
3. Parental involvement in 3 music lessons, 2 band practices (1 involves tuba transport), 1 choir parent meeting, 2 trips to Ann Arbor, and 1 trip to the Tae Kwon Do studio. Return 11 pairs of band pants that I washed after Friday’s football game and mail Sam his Black Belt which he accidentally left here. Which brings me to a partridge in a pear tree …
4. Photograph something other than an insect for my Sunday nature picture. I seem to be in a bug rut, and I hope to find a different subject this week. The wetland by Pet Smart often hosts water birds. Perhaps I’ll take a detour after dropping off the band pants …
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Forest of Hands and Teeth
The Forest of Hands and Teeth
by Carrie Ryan
Delacorte Press, 2009
I read few post-apocalyptic novels because they all:
1. are so bleak
2. involve a society consisting of two groups of people, those damaged by the apocalypse, and those who mysteriously escaped
3. depict the normal society as secretive, controlling and unconcerned with individual needs
4. portray the protagonist as a rebel against the controlling society.
The Forest of Hands and Teeth fits all these criteria, and yet the beautiful writing and compelling characters drew me into its bizarre world. I loved the way the protagonist got what she wanted before the end of the book, but didn’t appreciate it. Such a human reaction!
You can see the trailer here, and lots of other blogs must have described the plot, so I’ll provide a one-sentence summary. Zombies meet A Canticle for Leibowitz.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
Photographing the Loch Ness Monster
Yesterday while canoeing along the marshy edge of the lake, I spied a 2-foot long snapping turtle. At first, I thought it was a submerged log, but logs rarely paddle with webbed feet. I tried to photograph the turtle, but I had no lenses or filters, so the pictures show sunlight reflected on rippling water.
Sometimes revisions are like that. The monster is disguised as an innocuous floating log. Then it slithers away, while the writer attempts to turn the canoe and take out the camera at the same time. The writer tries several angles and approaches, but all she captures is glare.
Sometimes revisions are like that. The monster is disguised as an innocuous floating log. Then it slithers away, while the writer attempts to turn the canoe and take out the camera at the same time. The writer tries several angles and approaches, but all she captures is glare.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
If I'd Written the Scene ...
If I’d written the scene where the parents drop their son off at college, I would have included a few details to show the newness of it all, like without knowing the last four numbers of his social security number, the boy couldn’t unlock his room. I would have included a section where the two roommates meet and work together to arrange so-much-furniture in such-a-small-space, to foreshadow a peaceable co-existence. In the written version, the boys’ possessions could have provided clues to their personalities.
I would have drawn the parents, eager to help and loath to say goodbye, taking him out to buy books and an Ethernet cable, and then being frustrated when only one professor bothered to notify the bookstore about required texts. I would have had to decide if that was enough of a setback for one chapter or whether to include the bit about the Ethernet cable not working. Perhaps future plot twists would have determined which frustration to describe.
If I’d written the moment of goodbye, the mother would have hugged her son and been inwardly surprised to notice that her head rested on his chest, even though she saw him every day and knew he was tall. And of course, at the end of the hug, the boy would get suddenly busy, looking around for his flip flops. If I’d written that scene, the mother would have understood right away why the need to find flip flops was so urgent.
I would have drawn the parents, eager to help and loath to say goodbye, taking him out to buy books and an Ethernet cable, and then being frustrated when only one professor bothered to notify the bookstore about required texts. I would have had to decide if that was enough of a setback for one chapter or whether to include the bit about the Ethernet cable not working. Perhaps future plot twists would have determined which frustration to describe.
If I’d written the moment of goodbye, the mother would have hugged her son and been inwardly surprised to notice that her head rested on his chest, even though she saw him every day and knew he was tall. And of course, at the end of the hug, the boy would get suddenly busy, looking around for his flip flops. If I’d written that scene, the mother would have understood right away why the need to find flip flops was so urgent.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
I Won the Lottery!
Two lotteries, actually, but not the monetary kind, the SCBWI-MI conference kind. The first page of TAoCBS will be analyzed by the panel of experts, and I will be able to participate in Jennie Dunham's workshop on writing a pitch.
I've been to several first page panels over the years, and I know the comments tend to be absolutely honest. I'm channeling my inner pachyderm, and reminding myself that if my first page is not compelling, I need to know ASAP, so I can fix it.
Each participant in the pitch workshop is supposed to bring a completed manuscript, and I'm not sure which novel to bring. I'll probably present this conundrum as a discussion question at Saturday's critique group.
I've been to several first page panels over the years, and I know the comments tend to be absolutely honest. I'm channeling my inner pachyderm, and reminding myself that if my first page is not compelling, I need to know ASAP, so I can fix it.
Each participant in the pitch workshop is supposed to bring a completed manuscript, and I'm not sure which novel to bring. I'll probably present this conundrum as a discussion question at Saturday's critique group.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Hodgepodge
Summer:
We had about one week of summer this year. The cool, wet weather made it seem like I was on vacation in the Pacific Northwest - except the trees are different.
School is starting way too soon.
Family:
Next week my older son goes to college. I'm proud, excited, sad and scared.
(My writer friends are scribbling "show don't tell" in the margin, but that will have to wait for later posts.)
My younger son had his first highway driving experience. Not all the bad things that happened were his fault.
Writing:
I'm reading through TAoCBS, and the pacing is too fast at the beginning.
I signed up for the SCBWI-MI fall conference in hopes of getting chosen for the first page analysis or the pitch workshop. I've heard the number of entrants in these lotteries reached record highs, so it all depends on luck or statistics.
I also applied for a Highlights Founders Workshop on writing YA novels. I'll let you know if I'm accepted.
We had about one week of summer this year. The cool, wet weather made it seem like I was on vacation in the Pacific Northwest - except the trees are different.
School is starting way too soon.
Family:
Next week my older son goes to college. I'm proud, excited, sad and scared.
(My writer friends are scribbling "show don't tell" in the margin, but that will have to wait for later posts.)
My younger son had his first highway driving experience. Not all the bad things that happened were his fault.
Writing:
I'm reading through TAoCBS, and the pacing is too fast at the beginning.
I signed up for the SCBWI-MI fall conference in hopes of getting chosen for the first page analysis or the pitch workshop. I've heard the number of entrants in these lotteries reached record highs, so it all depends on luck or statistics.
I also applied for a Highlights Founders Workshop on writing YA novels. I'll let you know if I'm accepted.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Parallel Parking
The Michigan road test includes parallel parking, so a few days ago I gave Jeremy his first lesson. He did pretty well, partly because I drew him an diagram and said, “Make the car do this.” He practiced a few times and then …
Me: Are you ready to go home now?
Jeremy: I have the wheel, and you can’t stop me.
Me: Are you ready to go home now?
Jeremy: I have the wheel, and you can’t stop me.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Getting Closer - Progress Report
I haven't posted much about writing or revising lately, but I am working. Usually when I have a novel ready for critique, I get two or three people to read it, but nearly everyone in my critique group wanted to read TAoCBS. So, I've been pondering and balancing the disparate comments of six highly intelligent individuals. Trust me, it's not easy. The comments are all good, but they don't all mesh, and in the end it has to be my novel.
Revising is a long and arduous process, so I'm taking it in small chunks. At the end of each day, the manuscript should be better than the day before, or at least my ideas about it should have progressed.
I'll keep you posted.
Revising is a long and arduous process, so I'm taking it in small chunks. At the end of each day, the manuscript should be better than the day before, or at least my ideas about it should have progressed.
I'll keep you posted.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Friday, August 21, 2009
An Equal and Opposite Reaction
The light changed to yellow, and Jeremy stopped the car.
Jeremy: I didn’t block the crosswalk, and I didn’t slam on the brakes.
Me:
Jeremy: But your head hit the headrest.
Me: I didn’t say anything.
Jeremy: Actions speak louder than words.
Jeremy: I didn’t block the crosswalk, and I didn’t slam on the brakes.
Me:
Jeremy: But your head hit the headrest.
Me: I didn’t say anything.
Jeremy: Actions speak louder than words.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Brainstorming vs. Head Banging
My revisions are stuck have been stuck in the sludge. A scene in Chapter 12 needs a major alteration, and this change will affect scenes in several later chapters. Every time I think of a way to fix A, I see what will happen to B and realize that what must happen to C won’t work.
I’ve been banging my head against the monitor instead of brainstorming.
Yesterday, I compiled a list of who, what, why, where and how questions pertaining to the sequence of plot events. I started typing answers. When I ran into problems, I added additional questions. If the problems persisted, I started a new set of answers at one of the previous questions, and color coded the solution threads to keep them straight.
The result? I have a plan. I still have to write it, and sure, it might not work, but at least I’ve escaped the sludge in Chapter 12.
I’ve been banging my head against the monitor instead of brainstorming.
Yesterday, I compiled a list of who, what, why, where and how questions pertaining to the sequence of plot events. I started typing answers. When I ran into problems, I added additional questions. If the problems persisted, I started a new set of answers at one of the previous questions, and color coded the solution threads to keep them straight.
The result? I have a plan. I still have to write it, and sure, it might not work, but at least I’ve escaped the sludge in Chapter 12.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Kreativ Blogger Award
Casey McCormick of the wonderful Literary Rambles blog nominated my blog for the Kreativ Blogger Award.WOW! I’m so jazzed. So, I’m supposed to list my seven favorite things and nominate my seven favorite blogs.
Seven favorite things, in no particular order:
1. Laughing with my family. They are a hilarious bunch.
2. Bodysurfing. Unfortunately for this one, I live in Michigan, and no, you can’t ride the waves on the Great Lakes.
3. My writing group, aka The World’s Greatest Critique Group, is a constant source of intelligence, inspiration, fun and friendship.
4. Solving a creative problem (in writing, photography, parenting or life).
5. A glass of red wine enjoyed with people I love.
6. Nature. Pretty much any ecosystem will do.
7. Daring to dream.
Listing seven blogs is a harder task. One of my faves seems to be on sabbatical, another is brand new, and the ones I read most often are written by agents or editors who might not want to take time to play this game. I managed to come up with five. My favorite blogs, again in no particular order:
1. Jacqui’s Room. The entire world should enjoy life as much as Jacqui Robbins. I tip my hat to Tink and Captain Destructo.
2. Jumping the Candlestick. Debbie Diesen's blog provides a dose of intelligence and humor. Check out Michigander Monday and Poetry Friday.
3. Ellie McDoodle. Ruth McNally Barshaw doesn’t post frequently, but her blog sparkles with her warmth, creativity and wonderful illustrations.
4. Life on the Bookshelf. Boni Ashburn provides great updates on what’s cool in picture books.
5. Sarah Miller: reading, writing and musing. Sarah writes awesome book reviews, and her blog is where I find much of my "to read" list.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Music Animation Machine
I recently discovered this YouTube rendition of Clair de Lune. What a marvelous way to introduce intervals and rhythm to beginning music students.
Here are links for Music Animation Machine and the composer, Claude Debussy.
Here are links for Music Animation Machine and the composer, Claude Debussy.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Stone Age Rock and Roll
No one knows when prehistoric people started making and using complex musical instruments. The August 6, 2009 issue of Nature reports the discovery of bone and ivory flutes dating from 35,000 years ago. The flutes were found in caves in southwestern Germany.
The bone flute (picture) was made from the radius of a griffon vulture. Bird bones are hollow, which makes them ideal for flute construction. The flute had five finger holes, and was marked with fine evenly-placed scratches near the finger holes. The scratches may have been used to measure the location of the holes for tone calibration. Anthropologists believe the two V-shaped notches in one end of the flute served as a mouthpiece.
Fragments of two ivory flutes were also unearthed. An ivory flute was more difficult to make than a bone flute. First the mammoth tusk was shaped to the rough form of a flute. Next, the tusk was split longitudinally so the inside could be hollowed out. Finger holes were drilled, and the two halves were cemented together with air-tight seals.
It's hard to guess what the earliest music sounded like, but it probably wasn't like this.
Conard, N.J., Malina, M. and Munzel, S.C., New Flutes Document the Earliest Musical Tradition in Southwestern Germany, Nature, 460:737-740 (2009).
The bone flute (picture) was made from the radius of a griffon vulture. Bird bones are hollow, which makes them ideal for flute construction. The flute had five finger holes, and was marked with fine evenly-placed scratches near the finger holes. The scratches may have been used to measure the location of the holes for tone calibration. Anthropologists believe the two V-shaped notches in one end of the flute served as a mouthpiece.
Fragments of two ivory flutes were also unearthed. An ivory flute was more difficult to make than a bone flute. First the mammoth tusk was shaped to the rough form of a flute. Next, the tusk was split longitudinally so the inside could be hollowed out. Finger holes were drilled, and the two halves were cemented together with air-tight seals.
It's hard to guess what the earliest music sounded like, but it probably wasn't like this.
Conard, N.J., Malina, M. and Munzel, S.C., New Flutes Document the Earliest Musical Tradition in Southwestern Germany, Nature, 460:737-740 (2009).
Friday, August 14, 2009
Two Unrelated Conversations
Me: Steer away from those mailboxes.
Jeremy: Aww. They're friendly.
Me: Until you hit them.
Now you might think that friendly-until-you-hit-them is one of those universal truths, but it isn't.
Yesterday I received an email from a member of my sons' Tae Kwon Do studio about an upcoming event. When I replied, I identified myself as the mother of Sam and Jeremy because my last name is different from theirs. The gentleman wrote back, "I'm very familiar with your sons. Sam has kicked me in the head a few times." He meant it as a compliment.
There's also friendly-even-after-you-hit-them.
Jeremy: Aww. They're friendly.
Me: Until you hit them.
Now you might think that friendly-until-you-hit-them is one of those universal truths, but it isn't.
Yesterday I received an email from a member of my sons' Tae Kwon Do studio about an upcoming event. When I replied, I identified myself as the mother of Sam and Jeremy because my last name is different from theirs. The gentleman wrote back, "I'm very familiar with your sons. Sam has kicked me in the head a few times." He meant it as a compliment.
There's also friendly-even-after-you-hit-them.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
A Little More on Teen Driving
As an ongoing service to YA writers who may not have the opportunity to teach a teen to drive, I offer yet another car conversation.
Me: Slow down for that turn.
(Jeremy reduces his speed, executes the corner beautifully, but hits one of Michigan's ubiquitous potholes.)
Jeremy: See what happened?
Me: You were supposed to slow down and miss the pothole.
Jeremy: I'm not that much of a ninja.
Me: Slow down for that turn.
(Jeremy reduces his speed, executes the corner beautifully, but hits one of Michigan's ubiquitous potholes.)
Jeremy: See what happened?
Me: You were supposed to slow down and miss the pothole.
Jeremy: I'm not that much of a ninja.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Band Camp
Last Friday, I volunteered at Band Camp and found myself immersed in a teenage world that is different from the one my kids display at home. I observed teen fashion trends and learned about the intricacies of pocket texting (sending text messages from a phone that is hidden in a pocket). I watched freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors interact. I listened to the way kids spoke to their parents, teachers and mentors. Some students loved Band Camp while others were clearly suffering. Band Camp was a kaleidoscope of experiences, but two points stand out in my recollections.
1. The protagonist of my Work-In-Progress would fit right in at Band Camp.
2. Hope is the great motivator.
1. The protagonist of my Work-In-Progress would fit right in at Band Camp.
2. Hope is the great motivator.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Things I Should Have Realized a Long Time Ago - Part 6
This evening, while waiting in line at a small local grocery store, I overheard a conversation between a box boy and a box girl. The box boy was wearing a rubber wristband that said Prom 2009. The box girl looked to be about the same age.
Box boy: Why does your mom want you to have blond hair?
Box girl: She wanted me to have highlights for my senior portrait. And she said my roots were showing.
Box boy: It must be difficult to maintain it, with all those different colors.
Box girl: (shrugs)
Okay, if I put this conversation in a manuscript, my critique group would never believe a boy would be so interested in a girl's hair color. [I never discuss my hair color with my husband or teenage sons.]
I guess, if a boy is really interested in a girl, he'll talk about anything.
Box boy: Why does your mom want you to have blond hair?
Box girl: She wanted me to have highlights for my senior portrait. And she said my roots were showing.
Box boy: It must be difficult to maintain it, with all those different colors.
Box girl: (shrugs)
Okay, if I put this conversation in a manuscript, my critique group would never believe a boy would be so interested in a girl's hair color. [I never discuss my hair color with my husband or teenage sons.]
I guess, if a boy is really interested in a girl, he'll talk about anything.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Back in Michigan
I forgot to bring the camera on an evening walk out to Picnic Point so I couldn't photograph the full moon over the Capitol dome. It was a magical evening with moonlight reflected on Lake Mendota, and fireflies zooming around us.
I saw old friends, colleagues and mentors.
I still can't explain why I am a former scientist. (See sidebar bio.)
Madison seems to be experiencing an economic boom. The recession is much more obvious in Michigan.
I saw old friends, colleagues and mentors.
I still can't explain why I am a former scientist. (See sidebar bio.)
Madison seems to be experiencing an economic boom. The recession is much more obvious in Michigan.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Monday, August 3, 2009
Greetings From Mad City
You know you're in Wisconsin when the rest stops have signs that say Cheese Gifts. So far, mostly I've visited with old friends and eaten too much. We stopped by the Henry Vilas Park Zoo this morning, but the flamingos and the rhinos weren't quite awake.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Lazy Person's Reading Group - August Update
Hmmm. I guess I've been lazy since my July update.
10. A book that pertains to a skill you do not, and never will have.
Another Day in the Frontal Lobe: A Brain Surgeon Exposes Life on the Inside by Katrina Firlik. Don't read this book when you have a headache, especially if you have a tendency to self-diagnose. Sections of this book were fascinating, but other passages, I just skimmed. The most important take-home message is WEAR A SEAT BELT.
8. A book that has recently received rave reviews. Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy by Ally Carter. This is the second book in the Gallagher Girl series, and again the voice and the rising tension combine to make an enjoyable read. This time around, I could see some of the plot twists coming.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Young Folk BookFest
This year's Great Lakes Folk Festival at Michigan State University will also feature the Young Folk BookFest. Several terrific Michigan authors and illustrators will speak (schedule here), and the "Michigan Reads!" winner will be announced.
This all takes place on August 8 & 9 at the Young Folk BookFest tent, located on Abbot Road at Albert Avenue in East Lansing, MI.
Not only that, they used a picture of Science is Golden on the poster.
This all takes place on August 8 & 9 at the Young Folk BookFest tent, located on Abbot Road at Albert Avenue in East Lansing, MI.
Not only that, they used a picture of Science is Golden on the poster.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Wonderful Writing Retreat
The World's Greatest Critique group spent last weekend on a writing retreat at Topliff's Tara B&B. In the picture, the gentleman holding the llama (Gus Pacho) is Don Topliff who with his wife, Sheryl, run the bed and breakfast and raise llamas. The other people in the picture are Buffy Silverman, Tim Bogar, Lori Van Hoesen, Debbie Diesen, me, Kay Grimnes, and Ruth McNally Barshaw. Next year's photo will also include Amy Huntley and April Young.
They had a baby llama named Fergie who had an itch when I snapped that photo.
The moth is a "bird poop moth" also known as a beautiful wood nymph or pearly wood nymph. How's that for mimicry? Tim identified the moth and provided the link.
I spent the weekend among great friends and shared much laughter and a little wine.
I made some progress revising TAoCBS and figured out how much more there is to do.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
My Poll
What do you do when you're sick of your work-in-progress?
Thanks to everyone who voted in my poll. I received a variety of answers, probably because different problems require different solutions. My approach was to persevere with CBL and finish the stylistic changes, then put it aside for a few days. During that time, I got a great idea, for one scene at least.
Today I leave on a writing retreat. I hope to tweak the beginning of CBL before I leave, then focus on TAoCBS while I'm away. I have the comments of three critique group members to ponder.
I scheduled this week's Sunday picture to appear, and I hope it will. Blogger can be willful. By the way, Jeremy calls my Sunday series "naturey things".
And speaking of Blogger's willfulness, I could not move the poll to the post column. Not to be thwarted, I copied it into PowerPoint, saved it as a JPEG then imported it as a picture. Thus, the resolution is terrible. I'm sure someone will tell me a better way to do this.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tomorrow
Tomorrow, the World's Greatest Critique Group leaves for a writing retreat. A couple members won't be able to attend this year, and I miss them already. We'll be joined by a talented writer who isn't in our group. I am looking forward to tackling the many problems in TAoCBS.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
My Father's Secret War
My Father's Secret War
a memoir
by Lucinda Franks
Hyperion Books, 2007
I added this book to my Lazy Person's Reading Group list because I thought it would complement the other spy books I've been reading. I learned much about covert operations during World War II, but for me, the important lesson involved character development.
Lucinda Frank's father, Thomas Franks, was a spy for the US Navy during WWII, a fact not known to his family or friends. Like many soldiers returning from WWII, Tom Franks hoped to forget the atrocities he'd witnessed and refused to speak of them. In addition, he'd been ordered to secrecy. His daughter, Lucinda Franks, a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, wheedled parts of the story out of him, battling his reticence and age-related memory loss.
I was taken by this quote that ends a description of a family Thanksgiving dinner.
"Chatter and clatter and wine corks popping and everything is normal except that the quiet, unassuming gentleman pushing in the chairs of the women has taught people to kill in cold blood."
Many characters harbor secrets, and how they choose to conceal them provides a goldmine for writers.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
My First Poll
This blog doesn't have many readers. I appreciate each and every one of you MORE THAN YOU KNOW.
I have hesitated to post a poll because it would be embarrassing if no one voted. Please enter your choices. Someone? Anyone?
The astute reader will have divined that I am sick of CBL. I started CBL a long, long time ago. I've done lots of other things while writing it. I cared for an elderly mother, wrote another YA novel (TAoCBS), saw one son into high school and the other one out of high school. Recently, I had sort of a revision request for CBL, so I need to love this manuscript again and love it quickly.
I have hesitated to post a poll because it would be embarrassing if no one voted. Please enter your choices. Someone? Anyone?
The astute reader will have divined that I am sick of CBL. I started CBL a long, long time ago. I've done lots of other things while writing it. I cared for an elderly mother, wrote another YA novel (TAoCBS), saw one son into high school and the other one out of high school. Recently, I had sort of a revision request for CBL, so I need to love this manuscript again and love it quickly.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Overheard #65
"There are two reasons for doing pushups. They make your arms stronger, and they give you a chance to think about what you did wrong."
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
Mutterings of a Madwoman
TAoCBS is off at summer camp, visiting the homes of my critique group members. Yesterday I had a hilarious conversation with a young man who had seen the manuscript on his mother's desk and was intrigued by the title. He will be in 5th grade next year, and his mother and I agree that TAoCBS (a younger YA novel) is a tad old for him. Just try to talk an articulate, persuasive and intellectual kid out of reading a book. I dare you. My efforts failed so dismally that I'm almost tempted to try this reverse psychology in my next query letter.
I have embarked on an in-depth revision of CBL, focusing on writing style. It's slow going. I've been reading each chapter out loud to check flow and pacing. My sons' friends must hear me mumbling in the bedroom and think I'm wacko.
I have embarked on an in-depth revision of CBL, focusing on writing style. It's slow going. I've been reading each chapter out loud to check flow and pacing. My sons' friends must hear me mumbling in the bedroom and think I'm wacko.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Dryad
This fellow graces a yard near the local library. I currently have a few stumps and logs at my disposal. I were so inclined, I could create an entire population of these creatures.
Or not.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Freshmen Orientation
thirteen years ago
the boy in red shorts
turned back, eyes wide,
before the Kindergarten bus
today he strode away,
long-fingered hand
raised in casual farewell,
looking ahead
the boy in red shorts
turned back, eyes wide,
before the Kindergarten bus
today he strode away,
long-fingered hand
raised in casual farewell,
looking ahead
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
Background Noise
Several years ago, our neighbors had a sweet, but lonely dog who barked constantly. During that time, canine characters appeared unplanned and unexpected in my manuscripts.
This morning I wondered if music could have a similar subliminal effect. Could serene background music produce a flowing writing style? Would staccato marches inspire short snappy sentences? What about dynamics, piano vs. fortissimo? Of course the results would be skewed if the writer knew of the experiment, so I started to design a double-blind study.
Then I realized I should get back to my revisions. In silence.
This morning I wondered if music could have a similar subliminal effect. Could serene background music produce a flowing writing style? Would staccato marches inspire short snappy sentences? What about dynamics, piano vs. fortissimo? Of course the results would be skewed if the writer knew of the experiment, so I started to design a double-blind study.
Then I realized I should get back to my revisions. In silence.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Lazy Person's Reading Group - July Update
It’s the beginning of July, and here’s an update on my Lazy Person’s Reading Group list.
So far, I’ve finished three books. I don’t usually review books on my blog because many other blogs do that so well, but here are my impressions.
1. A book of fiction you've been looking forward to reading. The Grail Quest series by Bernard Cornwell. (The Archer's Tale, Vagabond, and Heretic). Okay, that's three books, but I am looking forward to them.
Although this novel is not my favorite of the Bernard Cornwell books, I learned a tremendous amount about the beginning of the Hundred Years War, including the capture of La Roche-Derrien, the battle of Crécy and the destruction of Caen.
8. A book that has recently received rave reviews. I'd Tell You I Love You But Then I'd Have To Kill You by Ally Carter. I see this mentioned everywhere.
This is a fun read about a spy-training academy for that masquerades as an exclusive girls’ boarding school. Carter lures the reader with an intriguing voice then cranks up the tension bit by bit.
11. A book recommended by your hairdresser or barber. Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. The woman who cuts my hair says this is great.
If you’ve ever dreamed of running away with the circus, read this book. I enjoyed the way the novel shifted between the story of a prohibition-era circus and the current life of the protagonist in an assisted living facility. (Some of the nursing home scenes hit close to home.) I’m not a fan of starting a book at the climax then going back to tell the story, but I’ll forgive that technique this time.
So far, I’ve finished three books. I don’t usually review books on my blog because many other blogs do that so well, but here are my impressions.
1. A book of fiction you've been looking forward to reading. The Grail Quest series by Bernard Cornwell. (The Archer's Tale, Vagabond, and Heretic). Okay, that's three books, but I am looking forward to them.
Although this novel is not my favorite of the Bernard Cornwell books, I learned a tremendous amount about the beginning of the Hundred Years War, including the capture of La Roche-Derrien, the battle of Crécy and the destruction of Caen.
8. A book that has recently received rave reviews. I'd Tell You I Love You But Then I'd Have To Kill You by Ally Carter. I see this mentioned everywhere.
This is a fun read about a spy-training academy for that masquerades as an exclusive girls’ boarding school. Carter lures the reader with an intriguing voice then cranks up the tension bit by bit.
11. A book recommended by your hairdresser or barber. Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. The woman who cuts my hair says this is great.
If you’ve ever dreamed of running away with the circus, read this book. I enjoyed the way the novel shifted between the story of a prohibition-era circus and the current life of the protagonist in an assisted living facility. (Some of the nursing home scenes hit close to home.) I’m not a fan of starting a book at the climax then going back to tell the story, but I’ll forgive that technique this time.
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