I'm going to go a little off topic today. I've been lecturing everyone about writing and part of me is stalling to avoid beginning my new project which I hope to finish by the end of the year. Anyway, excuse the sidebar, but I am a huge animal lover so this experience hit close to home.
While sitting on a grand jury today, we had a case concerning the theft of a pedigree dog. The prosecutor kept talking about the value of the dog in question...over $1000 in case you're curious. I asked if it isn't a crime if you steal a worthless dog. You guessed it. It's only a crime in the state of Ohio if the value of the dog is over $500.
How does one go about estimating the value of a beloved member of the family? You guessed it again. You must have a receipt. Can you believe that? Well, I was a little annoyed. I am all about animal rescue. After losing my beloved Reiley in 2004, I seriously considered paying big bucks for a full blooded Springer Spaniel with all the papers and pedigrees. Something Reiley didn't have. I bought him out of the paper for $50. His mother was a full-blooded Springer, but Daddy was a handsome stranger. I love everything about a Springer from the tip of their constantly wagging tail to those soulful spaniel eyes.
At the insistence of my sister, I looked into rescue dogs and reached the only conclusion that made sense. Why pay for a dog when there are so many wonderful ones awaiting adoption at my local shelter? Now I have two sweethearts I wouldn't trade for anything. My lab mix cost $100 in adoption fees and the Collie/terrier/who knows what all mix was free. She just showed up one day.
If they ever get nabbed, I guess I'll have to take the law into my own hands. While we are pursuing indictment for the person who nabbed the $1000 dog, I had to wonder how its owners let it get dog-napped TWICE. Irresponsible pet ownership is part of the problem.
So lock your loved ones up tonight, especially if you lost your receipt. Otherwise the cops won't even show up to talk to you.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Saturday, September 01, 2007
She said what?
The last few days I've been writing about making characters real for the reader. We discussed giving them flaws and personality quirks that readers can relate to. Now let's discuss the way your characters react to outside stimuli. You may think that's a given, but it's amazing how many books and screenplays are written that have characters behave ridiculously at inappropriate moments. I once read a book where the main character's parents are killed in an automobile accident. The character is discussing funeral arrangements with his sister and girlfriend. In the same conversation, he turns to his girlfriend and says, "Oh, and by the way, would you marry me?"
The girlfriend actually accepts.
Mysteries and suspense are notorious for making characters behave in stupid, reckless ways because the writer needs to put the hero or heroine in a dangerous situation. We've all watched movies where the heroine descends a dusty staircase into a moldy basement to find the fuse box during a power outage while thrumming, dreadful music plays in the background. Everyone in the theater begs her to go back upstairs. Everyone but her knows she will soon be pushing up daisies.
Don't resort to these tactics in your book. Lights do go out during thunderstorms while a killer lurks in the basement, but keep it real. If your heroine must trip over a dead body on her way down the stairs, don't let her bury the body in her azelea bushes because she is sure the police will never believe that she didn't kill the guy.
I mean, come on. If you stepped outside this afternoon and found a dead body on your front porch, would you call the cops? Or would you hide the body, sure the cops would put you in prison?
Do you live under a corrupt third world government that punishes the innocent? Neither do your characters.
If you are a convicted murderer, the dead man on your front porch may raise suspicions. But you're a soccer mom. Sure, you got into that trouble in college and your brother once ran a meth lab in Miami, but if you have nothing to hide in the untimely demise of the body on your porch, investigators will soon determine that.
While you're writing, put yourself in the situation with your character. When your mother-in-law gets in your face about all the mistakes you're making in raising her grandchildren, do you burst into show tunes? Your husband tells you he's leaving you to pursue his lifelong dream as center for the Seattle Sonics. Would you lambaste him because he forgot your anniversary?
Make your characters react the way you would react. Or at least the way you would react if you had the nerve to stand up to your sister-in-law who hasn't hosted Christmas dinner in ten years because she has a highly stressful job and all you do is stay home all day with three preschoolers.
Put her in her place. At least between the pages of your fiction.
The girlfriend actually accepts.
Mysteries and suspense are notorious for making characters behave in stupid, reckless ways because the writer needs to put the hero or heroine in a dangerous situation. We've all watched movies where the heroine descends a dusty staircase into a moldy basement to find the fuse box during a power outage while thrumming, dreadful music plays in the background. Everyone in the theater begs her to go back upstairs. Everyone but her knows she will soon be pushing up daisies.
Don't resort to these tactics in your book. Lights do go out during thunderstorms while a killer lurks in the basement, but keep it real. If your heroine must trip over a dead body on her way down the stairs, don't let her bury the body in her azelea bushes because she is sure the police will never believe that she didn't kill the guy.
I mean, come on. If you stepped outside this afternoon and found a dead body on your front porch, would you call the cops? Or would you hide the body, sure the cops would put you in prison?
Do you live under a corrupt third world government that punishes the innocent? Neither do your characters.
If you are a convicted murderer, the dead man on your front porch may raise suspicions. But you're a soccer mom. Sure, you got into that trouble in college and your brother once ran a meth lab in Miami, but if you have nothing to hide in the untimely demise of the body on your porch, investigators will soon determine that.
While you're writing, put yourself in the situation with your character. When your mother-in-law gets in your face about all the mistakes you're making in raising her grandchildren, do you burst into show tunes? Your husband tells you he's leaving you to pursue his lifelong dream as center for the Seattle Sonics. Would you lambaste him because he forgot your anniversary?
Make your characters react the way you would react. Or at least the way you would react if you had the nerve to stand up to your sister-in-law who hasn't hosted Christmas dinner in ten years because she has a highly stressful job and all you do is stay home all day with three preschoolers.
Put her in her place. At least between the pages of your fiction.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
More on Characterization
Yesterday I wrote about creating characters your readers will love...or hate. It really doesn't matter what brilliant storyline you've mapped out, if your readers don't give two hoots about who the conflict is happening to, they won't continue reading. What's a writer to do? Create memorable characters, that's what.
As writers we must keep in mind that each character must evoke a strong emotional response in the reader. Yesterday I wrote that characters must be flawed. We've all met someone who seems too good to be true. Even though common sense tells us this is imposssible, we can't help grinding our teeth at the perceived perfection in this person.
Now you probably think I'm incredibly petty, but come on. I know people, and I like to think I know a little something about human nature. When a woman is never seen in public with a hair out of place or a skuff on her shoe, her husband is incredibly successful and her children are potty trained by two and a half, and to top it all off she can eat what she wants and never gain weight...well, let me tell you, it's pretty easy to dislike this individual even though we know she probably doesn't clean behind her refrigerator either.
Okay, now that we've got that out of the way, I'll go back to the strong emotional response. As you read the above description about the perfect woman, didn't you dislike her just a teensy little bit. You can admit it. I won't tell anyone. If you're being honest, you experienced an emotional response to this woman even though she doesn't exist. Our characters must do the same to readers if we want them to keep reading.
The above forementioned woman could become the sister-in-law in your book who looks down her nose at your heroine. You can always reveal her flaws and insecurities later in the book if you're feeling guilty, but wouldn't she be a fun character to work with?
Or what about a mother-in-law or nosy neighbor? In nearly all my books I have a matronly character, typically an aunt or grandmother or mother, who annoys the socks off the heroine. This character is bossy and condescending and mean spirited. I don't include these characters simply because they are fun to write, which they certainly are.
They're even more fun to write than crazy people.
I include them for a very important reason. Most women can relate to this type of character. We have had a matronly figure in our lives who sometimes comes across as bossy and mean. Naturally I exaggerate these qualities for fiction's sake, but they always evoke a strong emotional response.
Did I mention I have fun doing it?
Have fun with your characters. Draw them so that readers can relate. Most importantly, make them real. A book critic once contacted me and said, "If I find out you had a perfectly normal childhood, I'll be terribly disappointed."
I figure I've done my job well.
As writers we must keep in mind that each character must evoke a strong emotional response in the reader. Yesterday I wrote that characters must be flawed. We've all met someone who seems too good to be true. Even though common sense tells us this is imposssible, we can't help grinding our teeth at the perceived perfection in this person.
Now you probably think I'm incredibly petty, but come on. I know people, and I like to think I know a little something about human nature. When a woman is never seen in public with a hair out of place or a skuff on her shoe, her husband is incredibly successful and her children are potty trained by two and a half, and to top it all off she can eat what she wants and never gain weight...well, let me tell you, it's pretty easy to dislike this individual even though we know she probably doesn't clean behind her refrigerator either.
Okay, now that we've got that out of the way, I'll go back to the strong emotional response. As you read the above description about the perfect woman, didn't you dislike her just a teensy little bit. You can admit it. I won't tell anyone. If you're being honest, you experienced an emotional response to this woman even though she doesn't exist. Our characters must do the same to readers if we want them to keep reading.
The above forementioned woman could become the sister-in-law in your book who looks down her nose at your heroine. You can always reveal her flaws and insecurities later in the book if you're feeling guilty, but wouldn't she be a fun character to work with?
Or what about a mother-in-law or nosy neighbor? In nearly all my books I have a matronly character, typically an aunt or grandmother or mother, who annoys the socks off the heroine. This character is bossy and condescending and mean spirited. I don't include these characters simply because they are fun to write, which they certainly are.
They're even more fun to write than crazy people.
I include them for a very important reason. Most women can relate to this type of character. We have had a matronly figure in our lives who sometimes comes across as bossy and mean. Naturally I exaggerate these qualities for fiction's sake, but they always evoke a strong emotional response.
Did I mention I have fun doing it?
Have fun with your characters. Draw them so that readers can relate. Most importantly, make them real. A book critic once contacted me and said, "If I find out you had a perfectly normal childhood, I'll be terribly disappointed."
I figure I've done my job well.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
What readers want
The last few days I have been talking about what editors and agents want when they look at your manuscript. Let's spend a little time talking about what a reader wants. I wrote down a fantastic quote that will make a great point here, but I was in such a hurry to get it all, I forgot to write who said it. Sorry about that but hopefully you'll still get something out of it.
"I write for the lady on the bus. She isn't my mother so she doesn't have to like what I write. She isn't my friend or my sister or my boss, so she is not obligated under any circumstances to like what I do."
Keeping that in mind, how can we please this reader?
The two questions you never want you reader to ask is:
1. Huh?
2. So what?
To avoid the first question, we must write clearly. I hate reading a book where I cannot see myself as the main character. Call me an egomaniac but I need to feel as if the story is happening to me. If I can't put myself into your setting and feel the wind in my hair and smell the coffee on the stove, I won't be satisfied with the story.
Another "Huh?" moment comes when you try to impress the reader with your brilliant prose. KISS. Keep it Simple Stupid. We know you're smart. You wrote a book, for crying out loud. Must you bore us by cramming your wit and brilliance down our throats. I'm not the dullest tack in the box, but I actually had to get a dictionary out to read the first page of a novel once. This novel wasn't one of the classics or an post-graduate thesis. It was just written by someone who had swallowed a Thesaurus and then vomited the words back onto the page. It didn't take me long to stop reading. I was exhausted and a little insulted. Just tell your story the way only you can.
The "So what?" question answers itself. Coming in at a close second to writing with a unique voice like we discussed yesterday, I believe the second most important ingredient in powerful storytelling is characterization. No matter how brilliant your storyline, if the reader doesn't care about who your conflict is happening to, she isn't going to make it to the end of the book. As writers we must create characters our readers love--or hate.
Create believable characters. People are flawed. No one is completely good or completely bad. Give your villian likable qualities--at least one. Make him be kind to animals or protective of his mother. Your heroine doesn't have to be five feet, seven inches with perfect teeth, flowing blond hair and an IQ of 140 for us to love her. In fact I hate her already.
Make her real. Maybe she can't digest dairy, the color red washes her out, or she thinks Michael Moore is insightful. Give her some flaws your reader can relate to. The reader must experience a strong emotional reaction to your characters and setting or we won't continue reading.
We will discuss strong emotional reactions more next time. Until then, keep writing.
Teresa
"I write for the lady on the bus. She isn't my mother so she doesn't have to like what I write. She isn't my friend or my sister or my boss, so she is not obligated under any circumstances to like what I do."
Keeping that in mind, how can we please this reader?
The two questions you never want you reader to ask is:
1. Huh?
2. So what?
To avoid the first question, we must write clearly. I hate reading a book where I cannot see myself as the main character. Call me an egomaniac but I need to feel as if the story is happening to me. If I can't put myself into your setting and feel the wind in my hair and smell the coffee on the stove, I won't be satisfied with the story.
Another "Huh?" moment comes when you try to impress the reader with your brilliant prose. KISS. Keep it Simple Stupid. We know you're smart. You wrote a book, for crying out loud. Must you bore us by cramming your wit and brilliance down our throats. I'm not the dullest tack in the box, but I actually had to get a dictionary out to read the first page of a novel once. This novel wasn't one of the classics or an post-graduate thesis. It was just written by someone who had swallowed a Thesaurus and then vomited the words back onto the page. It didn't take me long to stop reading. I was exhausted and a little insulted. Just tell your story the way only you can.
The "So what?" question answers itself. Coming in at a close second to writing with a unique voice like we discussed yesterday, I believe the second most important ingredient in powerful storytelling is characterization. No matter how brilliant your storyline, if the reader doesn't care about who your conflict is happening to, she isn't going to make it to the end of the book. As writers we must create characters our readers love--or hate.
Create believable characters. People are flawed. No one is completely good or completely bad. Give your villian likable qualities--at least one. Make him be kind to animals or protective of his mother. Your heroine doesn't have to be five feet, seven inches with perfect teeth, flowing blond hair and an IQ of 140 for us to love her. In fact I hate her already.
Make her real. Maybe she can't digest dairy, the color red washes her out, or she thinks Michael Moore is insightful. Give her some flaws your reader can relate to. The reader must experience a strong emotional reaction to your characters and setting or we won't continue reading.
We will discuss strong emotional reactions more next time. Until then, keep writing.
Teresa
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
What agents want.
Yesterday I talked about the decision all writers and professionals in the entertainment industry must eventually make. Do I need an agent and when should I look for one? Today I will talk about what agents look for when you decide to send in that genius of prose you've penned.
The one thing I kept hearing over and over again, whether from agent, editor, or publisher, was they were looking for writers who told their story with a unique voice.
Not story. Not mechanics. Not characters. They want a unique voice. Not to say that characterization and story aren't important. They are. But you must have a unique voice that sets your story apart from all the thousands that will be published this year.
By now you are probably asking what exactly is a unique voice? Don't we already have that? Good question. And probably the hardest to answer. Voice is like beauty. Difficult to describe, but you know it when you see it.
There are only so many plotlines and combinations available to a storyteller. King Solomon said it centuries ago. There is nothing new under the sun. Every crime has been committed, every commandment broken, every dream fulfilled...or unfulfilled. Knowing that, how can you possibly write a story that has already been told to death, and still capture the attention of an agent?
That's where unique voice comes in. You must tell your story the way only you can tell it. Have you ever known someone who can tell a good joke? They are funny without even trying. Someone else will tell the same joke, and it bombs. You can fake smart or interesting or clever, but you can't fake funny.
To tell your story with a unique voice doesn't mean it has to be funny. It can be heart wrenching or soul searching or inspiring or tongue-in-cheek. That's for you to decide. What's important is that you make in unique. That's how your writing gets attention.
When I first started writing, I struggled with voice and style. I wasn't sure what either one was, and I certainly didn't know how to develop it. You can't really learn it out of a book. If you could, we would all be funny and charming and the life of the party.
My advice, since this blog post has to end eventually, is to start writing. Tell your story from your heart. Don't try to mimick a prolific writer's style. Tell it the way only you can. It's your story. Don't fake it. Maybe someday aspiring writers will be trying to mimick you.
Until tomorrow, have a wonderful and productive day.
The one thing I kept hearing over and over again, whether from agent, editor, or publisher, was they were looking for writers who told their story with a unique voice.
Not story. Not mechanics. Not characters. They want a unique voice. Not to say that characterization and story aren't important. They are. But you must have a unique voice that sets your story apart from all the thousands that will be published this year.
By now you are probably asking what exactly is a unique voice? Don't we already have that? Good question. And probably the hardest to answer. Voice is like beauty. Difficult to describe, but you know it when you see it.
There are only so many plotlines and combinations available to a storyteller. King Solomon said it centuries ago. There is nothing new under the sun. Every crime has been committed, every commandment broken, every dream fulfilled...or unfulfilled. Knowing that, how can you possibly write a story that has already been told to death, and still capture the attention of an agent?
That's where unique voice comes in. You must tell your story the way only you can tell it. Have you ever known someone who can tell a good joke? They are funny without even trying. Someone else will tell the same joke, and it bombs. You can fake smart or interesting or clever, but you can't fake funny.
To tell your story with a unique voice doesn't mean it has to be funny. It can be heart wrenching or soul searching or inspiring or tongue-in-cheek. That's for you to decide. What's important is that you make in unique. That's how your writing gets attention.
When I first started writing, I struggled with voice and style. I wasn't sure what either one was, and I certainly didn't know how to develop it. You can't really learn it out of a book. If you could, we would all be funny and charming and the life of the party.
My advice, since this blog post has to end eventually, is to start writing. Tell your story from your heart. Don't try to mimick a prolific writer's style. Tell it the way only you can. It's your story. Don't fake it. Maybe someday aspiring writers will be trying to mimick you.
Until tomorrow, have a wonderful and productive day.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Do you need an agent?
This week I will be recapping what I learned at the Columbus Writers' Conference in Columbus, OH which was held Aug 24-25th. First off, let me say I had a great time talking with people who also hear voices in their heads and aren't ashamed to admit it. If you have never been to this conference, you should take the time to attend. It's held late summer every year at the Fawcett Conference Center on the Ohio State University Campus. Easy to find and navigate. Hope to see you there next year.
That's enough of a plug. Now on to what I learned.
Most attendees come to a writers' conference to meet and pitch their ideas to editors and agents. Unless you have an "in" at a big New York City house--and face it who among us does--you can only get the attention of these people at a conference.
As soon as people find out you are a published author, their next question is almost invariably, "How did you find your agent?"
I didn't. I don't have one. It's not that I have anything against agents. I just happened to find a royalty publisher without the use of an agent, and have not seen a need to hire one since. My first class was held by a New York agent, Paige Wheeler. At the end of the class, I asked why a person who had been published without an agent would need one now.
She said a writer should never try to negotiate a contract without an agent. An agent acts as a buffer between the writer and publisher or the writer and editor if the writer ever disagrees with editing changes and is uncomfortable going directly to the editor. An agent can negotiate a bigger advance and handle movie deals, foreign rights, and all the other stuff that comes with getting your book onto the bookstore shelves.
I am currently working with a small press, TsabaHouse. I am completely comfortable directly contacting the people within the publishing house, including the editor if and when a problem arises. And yes, we have had some creative differences when it come to rewrites. I hired someone to go over my contract and explain what I didn't know, which was almost all of it.
Someone asked near the end of the conference if I had changed my mind about agents. I never had a problem with agents. For me, it's just that the need hasn't arisen at this time. If I ever decide to pitch a book to a publishing house who will not work with unagented authors, then yes, I will look for an agent. If I am ever approached by a movie company about one of my books or when I get too prolific and too busy traveling and writing that I can't handle the details of my career, I will gladly turn it all over to an agent.
If you want to approach publishers through an agent, then you should definitely find a good one. But I am living proof that an unagented author can find a royalty publisher. If you don't have an agent and you are satisfied working with a small press where you are a big fish in a small pond, don't despair. You can still find a publisher without an agent. That window is getting narrower all the time and will someday close completely. But it can still happen.
That's what makes this such an exciting business.
Until tomorrow,
Teresa
That's enough of a plug. Now on to what I learned.
Most attendees come to a writers' conference to meet and pitch their ideas to editors and agents. Unless you have an "in" at a big New York City house--and face it who among us does--you can only get the attention of these people at a conference.
As soon as people find out you are a published author, their next question is almost invariably, "How did you find your agent?"
I didn't. I don't have one. It's not that I have anything against agents. I just happened to find a royalty publisher without the use of an agent, and have not seen a need to hire one since. My first class was held by a New York agent, Paige Wheeler. At the end of the class, I asked why a person who had been published without an agent would need one now.
She said a writer should never try to negotiate a contract without an agent. An agent acts as a buffer between the writer and publisher or the writer and editor if the writer ever disagrees with editing changes and is uncomfortable going directly to the editor. An agent can negotiate a bigger advance and handle movie deals, foreign rights, and all the other stuff that comes with getting your book onto the bookstore shelves.
I am currently working with a small press, TsabaHouse. I am completely comfortable directly contacting the people within the publishing house, including the editor if and when a problem arises. And yes, we have had some creative differences when it come to rewrites. I hired someone to go over my contract and explain what I didn't know, which was almost all of it.
Someone asked near the end of the conference if I had changed my mind about agents. I never had a problem with agents. For me, it's just that the need hasn't arisen at this time. If I ever decide to pitch a book to a publishing house who will not work with unagented authors, then yes, I will look for an agent. If I am ever approached by a movie company about one of my books or when I get too prolific and too busy traveling and writing that I can't handle the details of my career, I will gladly turn it all over to an agent.
If you want to approach publishers through an agent, then you should definitely find a good one. But I am living proof that an unagented author can find a royalty publisher. If you don't have an agent and you are satisfied working with a small press where you are a big fish in a small pond, don't despair. You can still find a publisher without an agent. That window is getting narrower all the time and will someday close completely. But it can still happen.
That's what makes this such an exciting business.
Until tomorrow,
Teresa
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Columbus Writers' Conference
Got home yesterday from the Columbus Writers Conference in Columbus, OH. Lots of fun and plenty to learn close to home.
I sat down to lunch on Friday with a presenter from Erie, PA, who I didn't know was a presenter at the time. We were talking about writing (what else?) and I mentioned that I have been thinking of someday writing a book on (what else?) writing. I told him and everyone at the table how much I love to speak at workshops and libraries. I have a great time doing it and get lots of positive feedback. One thing led to another and he told me how to contact the coordinator about doing a workshop at the conference. If things work out, I may be a presenter at a future conference. I'll let you know how that goes.
Tomorrow, I'm beginning a series of the knowledge I brought home from the conference. Besides my cold, that is. At this moment I'm a little unsteady with cold medicine running through my veins.
Join me Monday for a recap of classes offered and what to expect at a writers conference.
Teresa
I sat down to lunch on Friday with a presenter from Erie, PA, who I didn't know was a presenter at the time. We were talking about writing (what else?) and I mentioned that I have been thinking of someday writing a book on (what else?) writing. I told him and everyone at the table how much I love to speak at workshops and libraries. I have a great time doing it and get lots of positive feedback. One thing led to another and he told me how to contact the coordinator about doing a workshop at the conference. If things work out, I may be a presenter at a future conference. I'll let you know how that goes.
Tomorrow, I'm beginning a series of the knowledge I brought home from the conference. Besides my cold, that is. At this moment I'm a little unsteady with cold medicine running through my veins.
Join me Monday for a recap of classes offered and what to expect at a writers conference.
Teresa
Thursday, August 23, 2007
You can write a novel!
Someone said the other day that he had given up the idea of tackling a novel. He just didn't have enough material for such an intimidating project. He preferred short stories. But alas, there isn't much market for those. Unless you are an established writer and publishers are clamoring for the notes you jot down on the back of a napkin, it isn't likely you'll publish a collection of short stories.
What to do?
The person went on to say he has written many humorous short stories and vignettes about a doctor who has a fascination for moose. (Or is it mooses?) While rereading them, he was laughing and getting all sorts of ideas for more stories. As soon as I read that I knew he had his novel. It was just disguised as a bunch of short stories.
These vignettes could become scenes and the backbone for a wonderful novel...or better yet, a series of novels. I started getting ideas for this dashing, single doctor in a small Canadian or Alaskan town myself. I made up the last part. I don't know anything about his character. But see how the mere suggestions sparks more and more ideas.
Don't be overwhelmed by the thought of a novel. People ask me all the time how I can come up with 100,000 words about any topic. Being long winded and a person who loves to know more and more about any subject, it isn't that hard. If you are a naturally nosy person who is always asking questions, you have a novel inside you.
Don't be afraid to let it out.
Let's pretend you have also written several short stories. They may be totally unrelated. Short stories are great practice for your novel. I suggest you start with them first. But anyway, read through those short stories. Is there one that stands out from the rest? Does it beg you to ask: What next? Who is this character? Can he carry a novel? Are the setting and minor characters interesting enough to warrant further investigation?
One of those short stories could be the beginning of your novel. Don't let the notion overwhelm you? Maybe there isn't a novel in you. But maybe, just maybe, and this is the exciting part, the next great novel is waiting just below your subconscious for a spark of an idea to release it into the world.
Go crazy!
What to do?
The person went on to say he has written many humorous short stories and vignettes about a doctor who has a fascination for moose. (Or is it mooses?) While rereading them, he was laughing and getting all sorts of ideas for more stories. As soon as I read that I knew he had his novel. It was just disguised as a bunch of short stories.
These vignettes could become scenes and the backbone for a wonderful novel...or better yet, a series of novels. I started getting ideas for this dashing, single doctor in a small Canadian or Alaskan town myself. I made up the last part. I don't know anything about his character. But see how the mere suggestions sparks more and more ideas.
Don't be overwhelmed by the thought of a novel. People ask me all the time how I can come up with 100,000 words about any topic. Being long winded and a person who loves to know more and more about any subject, it isn't that hard. If you are a naturally nosy person who is always asking questions, you have a novel inside you.
Don't be afraid to let it out.
Let's pretend you have also written several short stories. They may be totally unrelated. Short stories are great practice for your novel. I suggest you start with them first. But anyway, read through those short stories. Is there one that stands out from the rest? Does it beg you to ask: What next? Who is this character? Can he carry a novel? Are the setting and minor characters interesting enough to warrant further investigation?
One of those short stories could be the beginning of your novel. Don't let the notion overwhelm you? Maybe there isn't a novel in you. But maybe, just maybe, and this is the exciting part, the next great novel is waiting just below your subconscious for a spark of an idea to release it into the world.
Go crazy!
Monday, August 20, 2007
Getting ready for the Columbus Writers' Conference
Friday, August 24th, I am on my way to the Columbus Writers' Conference in Columbus, OH. This is my first big conference. To prepare I have immersed myself in middle grade fiction, something I hope to successfully write and publish someday soon. My dream is to write books like the ones I loved when I was a kid.
Well, almost like those books. You see, I grew up way, way back when the boys were still the heros of every story and the girls were nothing more than nosy sisters, distractions, or just plain nuisances. It annoyed the socks off me. I wanted to change the world. With very little help from me, the world has changed, and girls have progressed beyond nosy sisters and know-it-all's. I still want to write these stories---a whole series of them where the girl solves the mystery and takes care of herself.
I signed up late for the conference so I did not get an appointment with Stacey Barney, an editor at Putnam Books for Young Readers. Note to self: sign up early next time. But I want to be prepared in case an opportunity arises to tell someone about my middle-grade mystery.
Who am I kidding? It's a writers' conference. Everyone will be sharing stories, ideas, and inspiration at every turn.
The first lesson a writer learns is to know the market, so I'm reading the competition this week. A notable selection I just finished was The Wedding Planner's Daughter by Coleen Murtagh Paratore. What a lovely book! Much to my delight, I have discovered Willa, the heroine, is now the star of her own series. Even when the research is over, I want to find out what happens next. If you have a young lady in your life or just want to see how to write middle-grade fiction well, don't miss this book. It's a smart, funny treasure that reminds you how magical and terrible it is to be 12-years-old.
Well, almost like those books. You see, I grew up way, way back when the boys were still the heros of every story and the girls were nothing more than nosy sisters, distractions, or just plain nuisances. It annoyed the socks off me. I wanted to change the world. With very little help from me, the world has changed, and girls have progressed beyond nosy sisters and know-it-all's. I still want to write these stories---a whole series of them where the girl solves the mystery and takes care of herself.
I signed up late for the conference so I did not get an appointment with Stacey Barney, an editor at Putnam Books for Young Readers. Note to self: sign up early next time. But I want to be prepared in case an opportunity arises to tell someone about my middle-grade mystery.
Who am I kidding? It's a writers' conference. Everyone will be sharing stories, ideas, and inspiration at every turn.
The first lesson a writer learns is to know the market, so I'm reading the competition this week. A notable selection I just finished was The Wedding Planner's Daughter by Coleen Murtagh Paratore. What a lovely book! Much to my delight, I have discovered Willa, the heroine, is now the star of her own series. Even when the research is over, I want to find out what happens next. If you have a young lady in your life or just want to see how to write middle-grade fiction well, don't miss this book. It's a smart, funny treasure that reminds you how magical and terrible it is to be 12-years-old.
Monday, August 13, 2007
The Perfect Title
Some titles are perfect. They stay with us forever. We can remember when we watched the movie or read the book. Even if the plot eludes us over time, we always remember a great title. GONE WITH THE WIND. TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. THE YEARLING. Nothing else needs to be said.
I love titles taken from scripture like THE SUN ALSO RISES or from song titles or lyrics like LET ME CALL YOU SWEETHEART or STREAMS OF MERCY.
But how does a writer find the perfect title that teases the reader into picking up the book and not setting it down until they've reached the last page? What's the process?
Humorous titles are always a good bet. DEATH OF A GARAGE SALE NEWBIE by SHARON DUNN just begs to be read. Familiar titles like FOUR TO SCORE or LEAN MEAN THIRTEEN of the Stefanie Plum series by JANET EVONAVICH are impossible to mix up with anything else.
I am particularly fond of one word titles. ROBIN COOK is a master at these. Who could forget COMA or CRITICAL. This isn't always an accurate depiction of the storyline. I recently read SHOCK by Mr. COOK and the title had nothing to do with the book. It was a medical thriller as I'm sure you deduced. And it was shocking. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it to everyone. But I kept wondering when someone would go into SHOCK. It never came up. I was a tad disappointed in whoever named the book, but it was still fantastic.
I'm getting off track here. I'm supposed to be figuring out where great titles come from. You see, I just sent in my latest work to my publisher. This story will be included in a compilation with romance writer Molly Noble Bull. The stories share a common theme and will enhance one another. The only problem is, the title must do the same.
Everyone at TsabaHouse is brainstorming tonight to come up with ideas that let the reading public know what they're getting in two words of less. No easy feat. Especially when you have several creative people with their own ideas of the message to convey throwing their two cents in on the issue.
Hopefully this still untitled book will be available in a bookstore near you next summer. You are in for a treat, dear reader. Let's just hope by then we have settled on a suitable, and more importantly, a memorable title.
I'll keep you posted.
Teresa
I love titles taken from scripture like THE SUN ALSO RISES or from song titles or lyrics like LET ME CALL YOU SWEETHEART or STREAMS OF MERCY.
But how does a writer find the perfect title that teases the reader into picking up the book and not setting it down until they've reached the last page? What's the process?
Humorous titles are always a good bet. DEATH OF A GARAGE SALE NEWBIE by SHARON DUNN just begs to be read. Familiar titles like FOUR TO SCORE or LEAN MEAN THIRTEEN of the Stefanie Plum series by JANET EVONAVICH are impossible to mix up with anything else.
I am particularly fond of one word titles. ROBIN COOK is a master at these. Who could forget COMA or CRITICAL. This isn't always an accurate depiction of the storyline. I recently read SHOCK by Mr. COOK and the title had nothing to do with the book. It was a medical thriller as I'm sure you deduced. And it was shocking. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it to everyone. But I kept wondering when someone would go into SHOCK. It never came up. I was a tad disappointed in whoever named the book, but it was still fantastic.
I'm getting off track here. I'm supposed to be figuring out where great titles come from. You see, I just sent in my latest work to my publisher. This story will be included in a compilation with romance writer Molly Noble Bull. The stories share a common theme and will enhance one another. The only problem is, the title must do the same.
Everyone at TsabaHouse is brainstorming tonight to come up with ideas that let the reading public know what they're getting in two words of less. No easy feat. Especially when you have several creative people with their own ideas of the message to convey throwing their two cents in on the issue.
Hopefully this still untitled book will be available in a bookstore near you next summer. You are in for a treat, dear reader. Let's just hope by then we have settled on a suitable, and more importantly, a memorable title.
I'll keep you posted.
Teresa
Friday, August 10, 2007
Beginning a New Project
The only thing more exciting than putting my latest book in the mail, which I did Friday, is starting the next one. Exciting and terrifying all at the same time. So much so that I'm hesitant to open a new document. Nothing more intimidating than a blinking cursor.
But at this moment I am terribly psyched. The only thing stopping me from opening that document is the desire to tell you first what has me so anxious to get started. Last week in church I got my new book. Okay, not the whole book. That would be insane. People say that all the time. "God gave me this book to write."
Yes, God puts goals and missions and projects in our hearts, but there is still plenty of blood, sweat, and tears that go into getting that message onto the page. If you don't believe me, you've probably never written a book.
Our pastor told us to turn to the 41st Psalm. When I turned to the 41st one, I read a few verses backward into Psalm 40. And there it was in black and white. Psalm 40:10. "I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation."
I have been looking for a storyline for a character I created in Book 3 of my Jenna's Creek series. I wasn't sure if it was God speaking to me through the sermon or if it was just me not paying attention. Then the pastor said something else that confirmed that verse was for me. Mind you, our sermon was not on verse 10.
The message was on patience taken from verses 1-3 of Psalm 40. The pastor misspoke when he sent us to Psalm 41. But if he hadn't sent us to 41, I might not have read as far into 40 to get to verse 10.
Are you getting any of this? Can you see why I'm excited about starting this book! Verse 3 of Psalm 40 even reconfirms what I got from verse 10 and the pastor's comment that confirmed verse 10.
Just because I believe God has laid this in my heart, doesn't mean I think God will do all the work. Far from it. But God has given me a nugget tonight--a germ of an idea and something to build Book 4 & 5 of the series on. Yes, I actually got the last two books of the series out of Psalm 40.
Thank you, Lord for your faithfulness and the calling You have laid in my heart. Let me be worthy to bring it to fruition.
Now, to open that blank document.
Teresa
But at this moment I am terribly psyched. The only thing stopping me from opening that document is the desire to tell you first what has me so anxious to get started. Last week in church I got my new book. Okay, not the whole book. That would be insane. People say that all the time. "God gave me this book to write."
Yes, God puts goals and missions and projects in our hearts, but there is still plenty of blood, sweat, and tears that go into getting that message onto the page. If you don't believe me, you've probably never written a book.
Our pastor told us to turn to the 41st Psalm. When I turned to the 41st one, I read a few verses backward into Psalm 40. And there it was in black and white. Psalm 40:10. "I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation."
I have been looking for a storyline for a character I created in Book 3 of my Jenna's Creek series. I wasn't sure if it was God speaking to me through the sermon or if it was just me not paying attention. Then the pastor said something else that confirmed that verse was for me. Mind you, our sermon was not on verse 10.
The message was on patience taken from verses 1-3 of Psalm 40. The pastor misspoke when he sent us to Psalm 41. But if he hadn't sent us to 41, I might not have read as far into 40 to get to verse 10.
Are you getting any of this? Can you see why I'm excited about starting this book! Verse 3 of Psalm 40 even reconfirms what I got from verse 10 and the pastor's comment that confirmed verse 10.
Just because I believe God has laid this in my heart, doesn't mean I think God will do all the work. Far from it. But God has given me a nugget tonight--a germ of an idea and something to build Book 4 & 5 of the series on. Yes, I actually got the last two books of the series out of Psalm 40.
Thank you, Lord for your faithfulness and the calling You have laid in my heart. Let me be worthy to bring it to fruition.
Now, to open that blank document.
Teresa
Monday, August 06, 2007
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Today I am excited to interview writer Suzanne Woods Fisher.
Suzanne is a contributing editor for Christian Parenting Today magazine. Her work has appeared in Today’s Christian Woman, Worldwide Challenge, ParentLife, Marriage Partnership, among others. She’s also contributed to five non-fiction books, including Chicken Soup for the Soul and Cup of Comfort.
Suzanne’s debut novel, Copper Star, hit a bestseller list within a few weeks of release. It is a World War II love story based on true events. Louisa, a young Resistance Worker is smuggled out of Germany by theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and ends up in a dusty copper mining town in Arizona to wait out the war. Unable to leave her resistance skills behind, Louisa uncovers a mystery that leads right back to Germany.
The sequel to Copper Star has already been contracted and its film rights are under consideration by a major motion picture studio. Copper Star is available through Amazon, B&N.com, any major bookseller, and through Suzanne’s website at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.
Married with four children, Suzanne lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and tries to write as much as she can, in between caring for her dad with Alzheimer’s, who lives directly across the street (!) and a steady stream of puppies that she raises for Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Welcome, Suzanne. Thank you for joining me here at Joy in the Journey. Can you tell all of us how you got started? How mapped out is your storyline?
I start with an idea, but try to be open to changes as I research the era or discover new connections…so, I don’t have a story all buttoned up before I start. I used to think that it was necessary to have the entire story planned out before I could start to write fiction…and found that it was paralyzing! I didn’t even try! It’s much easier, at least for me, to just start with an idea, stay with it, be open to new ideas, twists and turns of the plot.
What have you found to be the biggest misconception about being an author?
I have found that promoting my books is half (maybe even more than half) of the work of being an author. Connecting with people is wonderful—I love that part. But I didn’t realize how much marketing belongs to the author—any author! (Well, maybe not J. K. Rowling.)
Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?
A little of both. I start with an idea of a character, and add to him/her some quirks from people I know who resemble him/her.
Out of all the characters that you've written, who is your favorite and why?
I really like my main character in Copper Star, Louisa, the young resistance worker smuggled out of Germany by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. She’s funny, determined, smart… and flawed. And she knows it! She has an ability not to take herself too seriously.
What would you want readers to take away from your books?
What a relationship with God looks like, inside out.
Look for Copper Star at a bookseller near you or online. Learn more about Suzanne and her writing at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
Suzanne is a contributing editor for Christian Parenting Today magazine. Her work has appeared in Today’s Christian Woman, Worldwide Challenge, ParentLife, Marriage Partnership, among others. She’s also contributed to five non-fiction books, including Chicken Soup for the Soul and Cup of Comfort.
Suzanne’s debut novel, Copper Star, hit a bestseller list within a few weeks of release. It is a World War II love story based on true events. Louisa, a young Resistance Worker is smuggled out of Germany by theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and ends up in a dusty copper mining town in Arizona to wait out the war. Unable to leave her resistance skills behind, Louisa uncovers a mystery that leads right back to Germany.
The sequel to Copper Star has already been contracted and its film rights are under consideration by a major motion picture studio. Copper Star is available through Amazon, B&N.com, any major bookseller, and through Suzanne’s website at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.
Married with four children, Suzanne lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and tries to write as much as she can, in between caring for her dad with Alzheimer’s, who lives directly across the street (!) and a steady stream of puppies that she raises for Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Welcome, Suzanne. Thank you for joining me here at Joy in the Journey. Can you tell all of us how you got started? How mapped out is your storyline?
I start with an idea, but try to be open to changes as I research the era or discover new connections…so, I don’t have a story all buttoned up before I start. I used to think that it was necessary to have the entire story planned out before I could start to write fiction…and found that it was paralyzing! I didn’t even try! It’s much easier, at least for me, to just start with an idea, stay with it, be open to new ideas, twists and turns of the plot.
What have you found to be the biggest misconception about being an author?
I have found that promoting my books is half (maybe even more than half) of the work of being an author. Connecting with people is wonderful—I love that part. But I didn’t realize how much marketing belongs to the author—any author! (Well, maybe not J. K. Rowling.)
Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?
A little of both. I start with an idea of a character, and add to him/her some quirks from people I know who resemble him/her.
Out of all the characters that you've written, who is your favorite and why?
I really like my main character in Copper Star, Louisa, the young resistance worker smuggled out of Germany by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. She’s funny, determined, smart… and flawed. And she knows it! She has an ability not to take herself too seriously.
What would you want readers to take away from your books?
What a relationship with God looks like, inside out.
Look for Copper Star at a bookseller near you or online. Learn more about Suzanne and her writing at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Taglines & other marketing stuff
I read an article the other day that said a small business, of which writing is one, should complete 3-5 tasks a day to bring visibility to the business. Some of the tasks could be big things like writing a newsletter that would take a whole day. Other tasks could be small, like updating an address book, making it possible to complete more than the suggested five tasks a day.
One of the tasks suggested was something I've been considering for a while now. A business needs a simple tagline to identify the product the business sells. Several years ago Karen Kingsbury trademarked her tagline of LIFE CHANGING FICTION. Simple yet brilliant. That got me thinking.
Before creating a tagline, I need to decide what I write. Karen writes fiction that has the power to change lives. Okay, what does my writing do that sets it apart from every other writer who claims to do the same?
If I were a butterfly perched on a shopper's shoulder when she entered a bookstore and that shopper picked up one of my books, what would I whisper in said shopper's ear? "Buy this book. It's awesome," sounds a little too obvious. Not to mention pushy and vague. I should give it a little more thought.
What do I want a reader to know about me????????? Not just about the book; she can read the back to find that out. What do I want her, or him, to know about me?
First off, dear reader, I'm not Karen Kingsbury. You might not have even heard of me. But if you'll only take the chance on the book in your hands, it's my belief and earnest hope, you'll come back for more.
You're right, you're right. Not a very catchy tagline. Let's try again.
What I really want you to know is that I strive to incorporate a little mystery, a little romance, and a little humor into each of my books. My desire is to touch your heart through fiction by putting you into a situation you can relate to.
There. That's better. Now you know a little more about the books Teresa Slack writes. But still not catchy as taglines go. Certainly not simple or easy to remember.
I have a few ideas. I've been jotting notes and studying other writers' taglines all weekend. I have a pretty good one in mind that I'll run past my publisher before the grand unveiling. It isn't as short as Ms. Kingsbury, but it says who I am. That's the whole point, isn't it? I can't sit on the shoulders of every shopper who enters every bookstore or library in the country. But I can try to let those shoppers know ahead of time who I am and what I believe my mission is for writing what I write.
Happy reading. Oh, and if you happen to find yourself in a bookstore or library in the near future and you pick up one of my books...Oh that's right, you already know what I'm going to say.
One of the tasks suggested was something I've been considering for a while now. A business needs a simple tagline to identify the product the business sells. Several years ago Karen Kingsbury trademarked her tagline of LIFE CHANGING FICTION. Simple yet brilliant. That got me thinking.
Before creating a tagline, I need to decide what I write. Karen writes fiction that has the power to change lives. Okay, what does my writing do that sets it apart from every other writer who claims to do the same?
If I were a butterfly perched on a shopper's shoulder when she entered a bookstore and that shopper picked up one of my books, what would I whisper in said shopper's ear? "Buy this book. It's awesome," sounds a little too obvious. Not to mention pushy and vague. I should give it a little more thought.
What do I want a reader to know about me????????? Not just about the book; she can read the back to find that out. What do I want her, or him, to know about me?
First off, dear reader, I'm not Karen Kingsbury. You might not have even heard of me. But if you'll only take the chance on the book in your hands, it's my belief and earnest hope, you'll come back for more.
You're right, you're right. Not a very catchy tagline. Let's try again.
What I really want you to know is that I strive to incorporate a little mystery, a little romance, and a little humor into each of my books. My desire is to touch your heart through fiction by putting you into a situation you can relate to.
There. That's better. Now you know a little more about the books Teresa Slack writes. But still not catchy as taglines go. Certainly not simple or easy to remember.
I have a few ideas. I've been jotting notes and studying other writers' taglines all weekend. I have a pretty good one in mind that I'll run past my publisher before the grand unveiling. It isn't as short as Ms. Kingsbury, but it says who I am. That's the whole point, isn't it? I can't sit on the shoulders of every shopper who enters every bookstore or library in the country. But I can try to let those shoppers know ahead of time who I am and what I believe my mission is for writing what I write.
Happy reading. Oh, and if you happen to find yourself in a bookstore or library in the near future and you pick up one of my books...Oh that's right, you already know what I'm going to say.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Flannery O'Conner
Well, I'm off to Atlanta this week for the International Christian Retail Show. After the convention we are taking a detour into Tennessee for some much needed R&R. What better place to do it in!
While I'm gone, I thought you might enjoy this piece on Flannery O'Conner, courtesy of Chuck Colson. I hope to run into him at the show. If I do I'll tell him you said hi. See you on the 16th.
The Fiction of Flannery O'Connor
For 20 years the letters sat in sealed boxes in a library at Emory University. But in mid-May, the seals were broken. Lovers of great fiction are now reading hundreds of private letters penned by the celebrated Christian writer, Flannery O’Connor.
O’Connor wrote the letters to her friend, Elizabeth Hester, who donated the letters to Emory on condition they remain closed to the public—until now.
The correspondence sheds light on the private musings of a writer whose novels and short stories provide one of the undisputed bright spots in twentieth-century fiction.
Flannery O’Connor was born in 1924, in Savannah, Georgia. After spending two years at the famous Iowa Writers Workshop, she returned to Georgia, where she wrote short stories and raised peacocks. Although she died young—at age 39—she produced some of the most powerful fiction with Christian themes ever written.
O’Connor represents the tail end of the Southern Literary Renaissance that included William Faulkner, Katherine Anne Porter, and Robert Penn Warren. But she differed from them in that she was, above all, a Christian writer. According to critic Dorothy Walters, O’Connor’s “bizarre narratives of absurdly comic Southerners are governed by the stern purity of a rigidly Christian view.”
O’Connor knew her Christian faith was an anomaly in a world grown complacent, materialistic, and secular. So to reach the prosperous, comfortable folk who made up the bulk of her readers, O’Connor used jarring, comic situations and grotesque, unsophisticated characters. She intended to shock her readers out of their entrenched complacency, especially in matters of faith.
The genius of O’Connor was that she could portray religion in an up-close and unfiltered way she knew many readers would find uncomfortable. For example, in her novel, The Violent Bear It Away, a sophisticated schoolteacher named Rayber dismisses faith as irrational. But then he stumbles upon a little girl evangelist. Her sermon on God’s love hits him like a punch in the stomach. “Do you know who Jesus is?” the little girl asks. “Jesus is the Word of God and Jesus is love. The Word of God is love and do you know what love is, you people? If you don’t know what love is you won’t know Jesus when He comes. You won’t be ready.”
Well, you won’t find that kind of talk in many other 20th-century novels. O’Connor knew her audience would identify with the schoolteacher and would be as disturbed and affected as he was by the powerful words coming from the mouth of an innocent little girl.
Much of O’Connor’s fiction had this effect on its readers as it has had on me. There is something in her writing that haunts the reader so that he cannot easily dismiss it.
You may not have a chance to visit Emory University and read Flannery O’Connor’s private correspondence. But if you’ve never read O’Connor’s fiction, tuck one of her novels or books of short stories into your beach bag this summer. And then, the next time you encounter a sophisticated, modern secularist—one who sneers at religious faith—ask him if he’s read any Flannery O’Connor.
Her writing just might be the instrument God uses to open his or her eyes to the truth.
Today's BreakPoint Offer
Check out the 2007 Summer Reading List from Chuck Colson and The Point bloggers.
For Further Reading and Information
Flannery O’Connor, The Habit of Being: Letters of Flannery O’Connor (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1988).
Flannery O’Connor, The Violent Bear It Away (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1960).
Dorie Turner, “O’Connor Letters Draw Biographers, Fans,” Associated Press, 5 June 2007.
Paul Gray, “Letters Off Flannery O’Connor,” Time, 5 March 1979.
Lawrence Downs, “In Search of Flannery O’Connor,” New York Times, 4 February 2007.
Eric Knickerbocker, “Flannery O’Connor: Heaven Suffereth Violence,” Mr. Renaissance, 20 April 2002.
Katherine Lundquist, “A Proper Scaring,” GodSpy, 25 September 2006.
Kim Moreland, “The Mystery of Being,” The Point, 13 June 2007.
Breakpoint Commentary No. 981010, “A Good Book Is Hard to Find: The Fiction of Flannery.”
Breakpoint Commentary No. 060427, “Modern-Day Renaissance: The Resurgence of Christian Fiction.”
Breakpoint Commentary No. 011219, “More Christians Reading Fiction: Becoming Better Readers.”
While I'm gone, I thought you might enjoy this piece on Flannery O'Conner, courtesy of Chuck Colson. I hope to run into him at the show. If I do I'll tell him you said hi. See you on the 16th.
The Fiction of Flannery O'Connor
For 20 years the letters sat in sealed boxes in a library at Emory University. But in mid-May, the seals were broken. Lovers of great fiction are now reading hundreds of private letters penned by the celebrated Christian writer, Flannery O’Connor.
O’Connor wrote the letters to her friend, Elizabeth Hester, who donated the letters to Emory on condition they remain closed to the public—until now.
The correspondence sheds light on the private musings of a writer whose novels and short stories provide one of the undisputed bright spots in twentieth-century fiction.
Flannery O’Connor was born in 1924, in Savannah, Georgia. After spending two years at the famous Iowa Writers Workshop, she returned to Georgia, where she wrote short stories and raised peacocks. Although she died young—at age 39—she produced some of the most powerful fiction with Christian themes ever written.
O’Connor represents the tail end of the Southern Literary Renaissance that included William Faulkner, Katherine Anne Porter, and Robert Penn Warren. But she differed from them in that she was, above all, a Christian writer. According to critic Dorothy Walters, O’Connor’s “bizarre narratives of absurdly comic Southerners are governed by the stern purity of a rigidly Christian view.”
O’Connor knew her Christian faith was an anomaly in a world grown complacent, materialistic, and secular. So to reach the prosperous, comfortable folk who made up the bulk of her readers, O’Connor used jarring, comic situations and grotesque, unsophisticated characters. She intended to shock her readers out of their entrenched complacency, especially in matters of faith.
The genius of O’Connor was that she could portray religion in an up-close and unfiltered way she knew many readers would find uncomfortable. For example, in her novel, The Violent Bear It Away, a sophisticated schoolteacher named Rayber dismisses faith as irrational. But then he stumbles upon a little girl evangelist. Her sermon on God’s love hits him like a punch in the stomach. “Do you know who Jesus is?” the little girl asks. “Jesus is the Word of God and Jesus is love. The Word of God is love and do you know what love is, you people? If you don’t know what love is you won’t know Jesus when He comes. You won’t be ready.”
Well, you won’t find that kind of talk in many other 20th-century novels. O’Connor knew her audience would identify with the schoolteacher and would be as disturbed and affected as he was by the powerful words coming from the mouth of an innocent little girl.
Much of O’Connor’s fiction had this effect on its readers as it has had on me. There is something in her writing that haunts the reader so that he cannot easily dismiss it.
You may not have a chance to visit Emory University and read Flannery O’Connor’s private correspondence. But if you’ve never read O’Connor’s fiction, tuck one of her novels or books of short stories into your beach bag this summer. And then, the next time you encounter a sophisticated, modern secularist—one who sneers at religious faith—ask him if he’s read any Flannery O’Connor.
Her writing just might be the instrument God uses to open his or her eyes to the truth.
Today's BreakPoint Offer
Check out the 2007 Summer Reading List from Chuck Colson and The Point bloggers.
For Further Reading and Information
Flannery O’Connor, The Habit of Being: Letters of Flannery O’Connor (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1988).
Flannery O’Connor, The Violent Bear It Away (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1960).
Dorie Turner, “O’Connor Letters Draw Biographers, Fans,” Associated Press, 5 June 2007.
Paul Gray, “Letters Off Flannery O’Connor,” Time, 5 March 1979.
Lawrence Downs, “In Search of Flannery O’Connor,” New York Times, 4 February 2007.
Eric Knickerbocker, “Flannery O’Connor: Heaven Suffereth Violence,” Mr. Renaissance, 20 April 2002.
Katherine Lundquist, “A Proper Scaring,” GodSpy, 25 September 2006.
Kim Moreland, “The Mystery of Being,” The Point, 13 June 2007.
Breakpoint Commentary No. 981010, “A Good Book Is Hard to Find: The Fiction of Flannery.”
Breakpoint Commentary No. 060427, “Modern-Day Renaissance: The Resurgence of Christian Fiction.”
Breakpoint Commentary No. 011219, “More Christians Reading Fiction: Becoming Better Readers.”
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Cutting off the Inner Critic
I asked my friend and co-collaborator of a romance anthology, Molly Noble Bull, if she would like to critique my short romance. She said she would be delighted, but warned me that she takes her editing role very seriously and can come across rather tough if the situation warrants. I assured her I didn't expect anything less.
As a writer, I am my own worst critic. While I am working on a book, I hate it and am sure my editor and publisher will too. Only after I finish the book and the last of the last rewrites, can I step back and say, "Wow! I don't even remember writing this. It's actually pretty good."
Sadly, this carries over into my personal reading. Even when reading for entertainment, I have a hard time removing my editor's cap. I find myself thinking, "I wouldn't have used that phrase." "That character would never react that way." "Why does the writer have to tell me what the heroine is wearing in every scene? I don't care." "I saw that plot twist coming a mile away." And on and on and on.
I have a friend who tells me I took all the romance out of writing for her. Before she met me, she used to dream of writing a novel. She pictured herself sequestered in a mountain retreat, plucking away at an old manual typewriter while birds twittered in the trees above a babbling brook. She thought writing was the most magical, romantic career in the world. HA!!!!!! Boy, has she changed her tune. After listening to me vent and whine for the last ten years, she realizes life is no Murder She Wrote and most of us aren't Jessica Fletcher.
She doesn't even read the way she used to. Because of me, she is always picking apart the books she reads, ever the critic. I took one of her favorite pasttimes and sapped all the joy out of it.
Oh, to be a writer. Or the friend of a writer. It's not nearly as alluring as it appears on TV.
As a writer, I am my own worst critic. While I am working on a book, I hate it and am sure my editor and publisher will too. Only after I finish the book and the last of the last rewrites, can I step back and say, "Wow! I don't even remember writing this. It's actually pretty good."
Sadly, this carries over into my personal reading. Even when reading for entertainment, I have a hard time removing my editor's cap. I find myself thinking, "I wouldn't have used that phrase." "That character would never react that way." "Why does the writer have to tell me what the heroine is wearing in every scene? I don't care." "I saw that plot twist coming a mile away." And on and on and on.
I have a friend who tells me I took all the romance out of writing for her. Before she met me, she used to dream of writing a novel. She pictured herself sequestered in a mountain retreat, plucking away at an old manual typewriter while birds twittered in the trees above a babbling brook. She thought writing was the most magical, romantic career in the world. HA!!!!!! Boy, has she changed her tune. After listening to me vent and whine for the last ten years, she realizes life is no Murder She Wrote and most of us aren't Jessica Fletcher.
She doesn't even read the way she used to. Because of me, she is always picking apart the books she reads, ever the critic. I took one of her favorite pasttimes and sapped all the joy out of it.
Oh, to be a writer. Or the friend of a writer. It's not nearly as alluring as it appears on TV.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Evan Almighty
I was prepared to be offended when I went to see Evan Almighty last Friday. I was prepared for a cheap remake of the less than memorable Bruce Almighty film starring Jim Carey. I was ready for crude, sophomoric humor centered around bodily functions, spoofs, and obnoxious sexual gags. But my husband really wanted to see this movie, we had free passes, and I can't pass up a five-gallon bucket of popcorn and a bottomless Pepsi.
Instead I was blissfully surprised. Steve Correll played the part of Evan Baxter in much the same way he plays the loveable dork, Michael Scott on The Office. Fans of the show will see similarities. Whether a fan of Steve Correll's work or not, Evan Almighty is a lighthearted movie you can take the kids to with no fear of offensive language, semi-nudity, or crass humor you'll need to explain on the way home. On the contrary, this movie may open conversations about the similarites of the real Noah's Ark story, obedience, faith, and other matters we'd like to explore with our children, but sometimes find difficult.
Don't expect enlightenment or a necessarily brilliant plot. Many plot points you'll see coming a mile away. Don't overthink things. Just relax and have fun. This is a great family film and the best time I've had at the theater in a long time.
P.S. The popcorn was divine.
Teresa
Instead I was blissfully surprised. Steve Correll played the part of Evan Baxter in much the same way he plays the loveable dork, Michael Scott on The Office. Fans of the show will see similarities. Whether a fan of Steve Correll's work or not, Evan Almighty is a lighthearted movie you can take the kids to with no fear of offensive language, semi-nudity, or crass humor you'll need to explain on the way home. On the contrary, this movie may open conversations about the similarites of the real Noah's Ark story, obedience, faith, and other matters we'd like to explore with our children, but sometimes find difficult.
Don't expect enlightenment or a necessarily brilliant plot. Many plot points you'll see coming a mile away. Don't overthink things. Just relax and have fun. This is a great family film and the best time I've had at the theater in a long time.
P.S. The popcorn was divine.
Teresa
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Blog Tour
From May 15th-June 15 was the blog tour in honor of the release of my latest book Evidence of Grace. Thanks to everyone who was kind enough to host me on their blogs. I encourage you to follow the links in the right hand column to check out these wonderful writers. As far as I'm concerned a blog tour is the way to go. Gas is hovering at $3 a gallon in southern Ohio as we speak. Who knows what it will be the next time I'm at the pumps. Everyone is talking about cutting corners in other places because we can't do without the gas. We need it. They have it, so they can charge whatever they please.
In place of actually getting behind the wheel of my minivan and driving somewhere, I have been able to make myself more visible with a blog tour.
Janet Evanovich, author of the Stephanie Plum mystery series says building a web fan base helped her go from virtual obscurity to best selling author. Her first Stephanie Plum mystery had a print run of 13,000. The print run for her latest, Lean Mean Thirteen is 1.5 million. Wow! A writer's dream.
But this success doesn't come easily or quickly. It takes a lot of work. Work I'm ashamed to say I haven't invested in marketing. My favorite venue to promote books is libraries. My least favorite are bookstores. Alas, marketing is a necessary evil. The world wide web is more accommodating to my introspective nature. But it's still a long road ahead and lots of blood, sweat, and tears.
Everyone knows there's safety in numbers. Have you heard what Publishers Weekly had to say about the Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy Tour? Four Christian fantasy writers will kick off a tour the Eastern United States following the Intl' Christian Retailers Show in Atlanta in July. A book tour like that would be fun. You'd have a shoulder to cry on if no one showed up and someone with whom to celebrate when the crowds couldn't fit through the doors.
Thanks again to everyone who participated in my blog tour. Hope to see you in the stores soon.
Teresa
Friday, June 08, 2007
Welcome Karen H. Phillips
Please join me in welcoming Karen H. Phillips to Joy in the Journey as she discusses the excitement and anxiety that is par for the course for anyone embarking on a writing career. At the end of this post, you will find information on how to contact her. Enjoy her contribution to my blog. Karen, let me be the first to say congratulations on surviving your first year in this crazy, wonderful business.
Empty Nest, New Calling
by Karen H. Phillips
I needed a new calling. A former teacher, a homemaker, and a stay-at-home mom/homeschool teacher, by the fall of 2006, I tired of remodeling and decluttering after the kids left for college. God must have something more in store for me.
Dedicating time to prayer, Bible study, and an intriguing book—Whistle While You Work: Heeding Your Life’s Calling—I found myself drawn to writing. I searched for information about writing in bookstores and online.
When you seek, indeed, you find what you’re looking for. I discovered the Fellowship of Christian Writers online. Moderators and members alike welcomed me warmly, and I learned from them the first day I joined. I soon followed FCWers in posting weekly writing goals.
The first of its kind, a writers’ conference cropped up in my area. I attended, and it affirmed my belief: God had called me to write. Spirit-Led Writer’s Lisa Crayton gave me my first paid opportunity to write when she published online my review of that same conference.
I lapped up every writing-related experience, including visiting a college about an hour and a half’s drive to hear Sena Jeter Naslund, author of Ahab’s Wife, speak at a small college. I’ll never forget talking to her afterwards. I said, “I’m a late bloomer. I just began writing recently.”
She said, “No. You have to look at it like this: You’ve had all these wonderful life experiences. Now you’re ready to write about them.”
A few months later, I came out of the internet closet and joined the local writers guild. Recently established as a nonprofit organization, the guild elected me as a board member at my first meeting. What a learning experience, to set policy and serve other writers by molding the guild into what the members want and need!
Even better, the feedback from the guild’s nonfiction group improved my essay for The Writers View Two’s Mount Hermon contest—to the point that I received a scholarship to attend. At Mount Hermon Christian Writers’ Conference, two editors critiqued a piece for me, providing insight on revising my work to fit periodicals’ needs. I connected with online friends and met new writing buddies, finding invaluable mutual support in this network.
My attendance at Cecil Murphey’s mentoring clinic, an intensive workshop in which the participants met one-on-one with Cec to revise and refine our work in progress, preceded my sending the article for the Mount Hermon critiques, an example of God’s perfect timing.
My clips file still takes up little space, but the idea and submission files bulge! If new friends and learning could add to my clips, I’d need a new file cabinet. I thank the Lord and all those who’ve helped and encouraged me through my first writing year. Right now, right here, I’m exactly where I ought to be.
Karen H. Phillips began writing for publication in March 2006. Her husband and two grown children stand behind her writing habit, especially when they browse the refrigerator near her kitchen writing desk.
Read Karen’s blogs at:
http://sky-highview.blogspot.com/ http://blog.myspace.com/writethetruth http://www.shoutlife.com/karenhphillips
Empty Nest, New Calling
by Karen H. Phillips
I needed a new calling. A former teacher, a homemaker, and a stay-at-home mom/homeschool teacher, by the fall of 2006, I tired of remodeling and decluttering after the kids left for college. God must have something more in store for me.
Dedicating time to prayer, Bible study, and an intriguing book—Whistle While You Work: Heeding Your Life’s Calling—I found myself drawn to writing. I searched for information about writing in bookstores and online.
When you seek, indeed, you find what you’re looking for. I discovered the Fellowship of Christian Writers online. Moderators and members alike welcomed me warmly, and I learned from them the first day I joined. I soon followed FCWers in posting weekly writing goals.
The first of its kind, a writers’ conference cropped up in my area. I attended, and it affirmed my belief: God had called me to write. Spirit-Led Writer’s Lisa Crayton gave me my first paid opportunity to write when she published online my review of that same conference.
I lapped up every writing-related experience, including visiting a college about an hour and a half’s drive to hear Sena Jeter Naslund, author of Ahab’s Wife, speak at a small college. I’ll never forget talking to her afterwards. I said, “I’m a late bloomer. I just began writing recently.”
She said, “No. You have to look at it like this: You’ve had all these wonderful life experiences. Now you’re ready to write about them.”
A few months later, I came out of the internet closet and joined the local writers guild. Recently established as a nonprofit organization, the guild elected me as a board member at my first meeting. What a learning experience, to set policy and serve other writers by molding the guild into what the members want and need!
Even better, the feedback from the guild’s nonfiction group improved my essay for The Writers View Two’s Mount Hermon contest—to the point that I received a scholarship to attend. At Mount Hermon Christian Writers’ Conference, two editors critiqued a piece for me, providing insight on revising my work to fit periodicals’ needs. I connected with online friends and met new writing buddies, finding invaluable mutual support in this network.
My attendance at Cecil Murphey’s mentoring clinic, an intensive workshop in which the participants met one-on-one with Cec to revise and refine our work in progress, preceded my sending the article for the Mount Hermon critiques, an example of God’s perfect timing.
My clips file still takes up little space, but the idea and submission files bulge! If new friends and learning could add to my clips, I’d need a new file cabinet. I thank the Lord and all those who’ve helped and encouraged me through my first writing year. Right now, right here, I’m exactly where I ought to be.
Karen H. Phillips began writing for publication in March 2006. Her husband and two grown children stand behind her writing habit, especially when they browse the refrigerator near her kitchen writing desk.
Read Karen’s blogs at:
http://sky-highview.blogspot.com/ http://blog.myspace.com/writethetruth http://www.shoutlife.com/karenhphillips
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
What's New
I hope everyone has been following along on my blog tour that has been going on all over the web since May 14th. I've been to some exciting and friendly places. It's not too late to join in the fun. Tomorrow I will be visiting my friend Margaret Daley. My next stop is Friday where I will check in with writers Angela Benson and Carole Browne. Stop by and see what's up.
Best of all on Friday, one week before the release of Evidence of Grace, Book 3 in my Jenna's Creek Series, we will be joined by my friend and fellow writer Karen Phillips. She will be guest blogging right here at Joy in the Journey. Stop in and see what Karen has to say. I'm sure we will be encouraged, enlightened and entertained.
It's not too late to vote for Evidence of Grace over at the ACFW book club for their July Book of the Month selection. You must be a member of the group, but that's easy enough if you have an email account. Just getting the book nominated was a great honor. Winning Book of the Month will be icing on the cake. Especially since July is my birth month. What a wonderful present. Thanks to all who have already voted.
Be sure to stop in on Friday and make Karen feel welcome. Have a great rest of the week.
Teresa
Best of all on Friday, one week before the release of Evidence of Grace, Book 3 in my Jenna's Creek Series, we will be joined by my friend and fellow writer Karen Phillips. She will be guest blogging right here at Joy in the Journey. Stop in and see what Karen has to say. I'm sure we will be encouraged, enlightened and entertained.
It's not too late to vote for Evidence of Grace over at the ACFW book club for their July Book of the Month selection. You must be a member of the group, but that's easy enough if you have an email account. Just getting the book nominated was a great honor. Winning Book of the Month will be icing on the cake. Especially since July is my birth month. What a wonderful present. Thanks to all who have already voted.
Be sure to stop in on Friday and make Karen feel welcome. Have a great rest of the week.
Teresa
Monday, May 28, 2007
What I learned this weekend
If you've heard me talk at length before you may have heard me say I get more story ideas over Memorial Day weekend than the entire rest of the year. Attribute it to my morbid curiosity if you will, but I love visiting cemeteries. The older, the better. Between my husband, my father-in-law, and me, we travel to several cemeteries in rural southern Ohio to visit the graves of some of the more important people in our lives who have gone on.
Warranting a visit on Memorial Day weekend is quite an honor I suppose. It isn't possible to visit every departed loved one. Some graves are too far away and the trip isn't feasible. Or there just isn't enough hours in the day. So we visit grandparents, my husband's mother, a brother and sister who died in infancy, my nephew who died when he was seven, a beloved uncle, and various great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and those whose relationship to us we aren't exactly sure of.
Some of the graves I visit year after year belong to people who aren't related to me and who died before I was ever born. Certain headstones prick my curiosity and won't let me be. Today I read a marker belonging to a baby who was laid to rest next to his parents. He was born on his parents' first anniversary in 1957 and died three months later. His parents went on to have 3 more children. Another infant was born and died on May 31, 1897. His young mother joined him in death two weeks later. Another baby died on her first birthday in 1901, which also happened to be Christmas Eve.
None of these stories are unique. With the help of modern medicine, it is a rarity for a couple in America to lose a child in the first few years of life. But not in 1901 or even in 1957. Many mothers knew what it was like to bury a child she loved and nurtured in her womb for nine months. Sadly, the next morning she had to get up and cook breakfast, milk the cows, gather the eggs, and finish a hundred other chores just like any other morning. She didn't have the luxury of microwave meals to tide the rest of the family over until she was able to rise out of her bed and drawing her remaining children to her bosom.
As a writer, I think on these things and wonder how these young women and families survived the hardships that were everyday occurrences for them. I wish I could document every story for they deserve to be told. Memorial Day is a time to remember our fallen heroes and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we might enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted.
But I can't help remembering the everyday heroes who put their staggering pain aside for the best interests of their families. I don't know if I could've been as strong as these hardy women, and the men too, who got up the next morning and went on with their lives after the ultimate loss. They didn't have therapists and books and hardship leave from work. Life went on and so did they.
If not for the grace of God...
Wishing each of you a blessed and prosperous week.
Teresa
Friday, May 25, 2007
Welcome to author Toni V. Lee
In case you haven't discovered it yet, a great place to meet and network with Christians authors, artists, and just plain wonderful people is Shoutlife. Shoutlife is a fun place for those who have felt out of place or overwhelmed on other online communities. Shoutlife is also where I met Christian author Toni V. Lee. (pictured at left) Today we are going to discuss Toni's latest book, Expectations, and get to know Toni a little better. First read the review for Expectations and then join me in welcoming Toni to Joy in the Journey.Expectations is a romantic comedy-drama about a woman who prays for a husband and receives more than one unexpected answer.When Michael Greer barges into Daria Simpson’s home to avoid a belligerent ex-girlfriend, Daria is not impressed. Then Michael renews his relationship with Christ and begins attending her church. Suddenly, the atmosphere becomes electric, and despite her best intentions, Daria can’t get her mind off that man. Soon they’re having monster alerts that have nothing to do with ogres or dragons. Hilarious encounters, eccentric aunties, and a persistent ex-girlfriend give them plenty of action, but nothing prepares them for the arrival of a secret baby who reveals an awful secret.
Will Michael walk away and fulfill Daria’s fearful expectations, or will their attraction mature into a godly love that lasts a lifetime?
A fresh look at the struggle for pre-marital purity and the power of forgiveness can be found in Expections, the latest work by Toni V. Lee. Using recognizable characters,
situations, and comedy, this novel addresses the impact of self-discovery, physical intimacy, and spiritual renewal on the Christian single man and woman.
Will Michael walk away and fulfill Daria’s fearful expectations, or will their attraction mature into a godly love that lasts a lifetime?
A fresh look at the struggle for pre-marital purity and the power of forgiveness can be found in Expections, the latest work by Toni V. Lee. Using recognizable characters,
situations, and comedy, this novel addresses the impact of self-discovery, physical intimacy, and spiritual renewal on the Christian single man and woman.
Good evening, Toni. Sorry for the delay in having you on the Joy in the Journey, but I know it will be worth the wait. Can you tell everyone a little about yourself?
I’m a former Sunday school teacher who loves to curl up with a good romance novel.
I’m committed to communicating the message of Christ through my novels and plays;
hence my motto: Spreading Truth through Fiction.
Just prior to my work on Expectations, I published my first play, The Crown
Mystery.
I have a BSBA degree from the University of Central Florida and live in Central Florida with my family. I’m a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Association, and I’m a member of the leadership team of the CIC (Complete in Christ) Singles’ Ministry of my church.
Spreading truth through fiction. That's what it's all about. What can you tell us about your book?
Expectations is a romantic comedy-drama about a woman who prays for a husband and receives more than one unexpected answer.
The novel takes you on a roller coaster ride of laughter, drama, self-discovery, spiritual renewal, and love.
Using recognizable characters, situations, and comedic views of dramatic events, Expectations addresses the crippling effects of unforgiveness and the struggles involved in Christian dating and remaining pure before God.
What messages do you hope readers will gain from your novel?
My novel has many interrelated messages. I would like readers to gain the following from Expectations:
We have expectations, but God has a plan.
The truth that God loves them and is concerned about every facet of their lives.
Sometimes the answer we expect from God is not the answer we receive, but it will be the right answer for us. The timing of that answer will be perfect.
Unforgiveness is a destructive force.
Time for us here on earth is finite. Don’t put off having an honest and intimate relationship with Christ until tomorrow, because tomorrow may never come.
It’s important to stay pure before God in thought and deed.
What specific feature of the book will cause informed readers, who may already own other books on this subject, to spend money and time to read this book?
The novel takes you through a gamut of feelings. The characters and situations are recognizable and real.
The reader will care about the characters and become involved with them and their situation.
When writing Expectations, I tried very hard to make the characters real and believable, so that readers would identify with and relate to them. So far, reader feedback has been awesome.
What quotes from Expectations do you think emphasize your main messages?
“Lord, why is it taking You so long to send me a man? I’m trying to wait patiently and contentedly for You to send me somebody, but it’s just taking sooooooo long.” – Daria’s—the heroine—lament.
“Y’all be careful, you hear. Flesh is a mess when you don’t keep it in check.” - Aunt Euvinia speaking to Michael and Daria.
“Unforgiveness is like a slow poison. It spreads through you, corroding and contaminating your soul, leaving bitterness and hatred in its wake.” - Pastor Wicham.
Your reader feedback has been encouraging, what responses have given you the most encouragement?
I’m delighted and humbled by all of the responses I’ve received. They are generally “A good read. I couldn’t put it down.”, “The story is so real! Did it really happen?”, “I was there in every scene with the characters.”, and “When will the sequel be available?”
I’ve also received great responses from an unexpected source—middle and high school teenagers. They were not my targeted audience, but they really love the book and are being blessed by it. Well...we have expectations, but God has a plan.
Needless to say, a whole lot of encouragement can be found in the responses I’ve received.
Tell us what we have to look forward to in the future. What new projects are you working on?
I am currently working on my second novel, Even Then (working title). It contains some of the lovable and hilarious characters from Expectations. Even Then is a romantic comedy-drama about two women whose hearts are sent into a tailspin when they’re broadsided by the love of men they thought they knew very well.
If you like Aunt Lenore and Aunt Euvinia in Expectations, you’re going to love ‘em in Even Then.
Who are the Aunties?
Lenore is that elderly Christian who sees everything, especially when you’d rather she didn’t. She readily imparts wisdom and threats with an even hand to keep those she cares about in line.
Euvinia is quick to laugh and full of fun. She’ll joke with you and deliver wisdom all at the same time. You’ve got to love her.
You know these ladies. Both of them will get in your business and in your face without a qualm...all in the name of love.
Where can I find Expectations?
Expectations is available at...
www.tonivlee.com
On-line bookstores (amazon.com, target.com, christianbook.com, etc.)
1-877-421-READ (7323)
www.pleasantwordbooks.com
Local bookstores (If you don't see it on the shelf, ask for it.)
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Raising Godly Children
Scripture Reading: II Chronicles 22:1-9 (NKJV)
II Chronicles 22:2-3
Ahaziah was forty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem one year… He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab, for his mother advised him to do wickedly.
It’s an Old Testament story of one of those minor kings whose names I can never remember. In this instance, one line jumped out at me. His mother advised him to do wickedly. Hmmm. The story of King Ahaziah is one of treason, murder, and genocide. To think he listened to his mother!
Sometimes we think our kids don’t listen to a word we say. Especially that teenager who hasn't come out of his room in two years. But how often have we heard them repeat something we wish we hadn’t said? Often we don’t realize what great influencers we are of our children. They walk like we do, talk like we do. They even root for the same team at a ball game.
We all want our children to be happy and healthy; to grow into honorable young men and women. We would never advise them to do wickedly. But what about our actions? Do they observe us practicing patience and humility? Or do they see us yelling at the driver in the next car, complaining about last Sunday’s sermon, dishonoring our own parents?
Ahaziah’s mother’s fate was death by the sword. Our consequences can be just as deadly if we fail to raise our children in the ways of the Lord. As mothers, we have been given the most frustrating, aggravating, lowest paid job ever created. But it is also the most fulfilling. We are the greatest influencers our children will ever have. Let us take that responsibility seriously.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Keep me mindful of my influence over my child. Let my advice be directed by Your word. Amen
Additional Reading: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
II Chronicles 22:2-3
Ahaziah was forty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem one year… He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab, for his mother advised him to do wickedly.
It’s an Old Testament story of one of those minor kings whose names I can never remember. In this instance, one line jumped out at me. His mother advised him to do wickedly. Hmmm. The story of King Ahaziah is one of treason, murder, and genocide. To think he listened to his mother!
Sometimes we think our kids don’t listen to a word we say. Especially that teenager who hasn't come out of his room in two years. But how often have we heard them repeat something we wish we hadn’t said? Often we don’t realize what great influencers we are of our children. They walk like we do, talk like we do. They even root for the same team at a ball game.
We all want our children to be happy and healthy; to grow into honorable young men and women. We would never advise them to do wickedly. But what about our actions? Do they observe us practicing patience and humility? Or do they see us yelling at the driver in the next car, complaining about last Sunday’s sermon, dishonoring our own parents?
Ahaziah’s mother’s fate was death by the sword. Our consequences can be just as deadly if we fail to raise our children in the ways of the Lord. As mothers, we have been given the most frustrating, aggravating, lowest paid job ever created. But it is also the most fulfilling. We are the greatest influencers our children will ever have. Let us take that responsibility seriously.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Keep me mindful of my influence over my child. Let my advice be directed by Your word. Amen
Additional Reading: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Creativity in the Garden
This time of year, it's hard to stay inside and get any real work done when the sunshine is beckoning outside. Last week I made my first trip to a gardening center and spent more money than I intended on annuals and hanging baskets. It takes a stronger woman than me to resist the colors and smells of wet earth and possibilities of what my garden and front porch can look like with a minimal amount of tender loving care.I spent too much money, bought more flowers than I have room for and came home and got creative. This is my favorite time of year even though I don't have as much money or time and desire to do to my yard and flowerbeds what my father does in his.
I like to think part of my creative bent came from him. As far as I know, he's never strung a word picture together in his head or penned a song or even wrote a love letter. His creativity is in the garden. People stop to admire his handiwork all summer long. He is considered an expert on anything green. They ask for advice and the names of some of the more exotic plants growing in his flower beds. Most importantly, they marvel at how much an old man who can't walk without the aid of a cane and a scooter has accomplished.
Since becoming published in 2004 I suddenly became an expert on writing. My creative outlet has always been through my pen. People now seek my advice on everything from inspiration to sentence structure to finding a publisher. I've never exactly been the person people turn to for advice. The retiring second of four girls, people tended to forget I existed among the melee that was my house. Expecting them to turn to me for advice and hang on my every word is still new to me.
Regardless of the attention and praise my work has received, I still prefer the creative side of writing. If I had my druthers, I would make very few public appearances. Alas, that's not the way of the writing business anymore. Marketing is paramount. A writer approached me the other day about adding a 3-D interactive community to their website to encourage reader participation and build a buzz about the books. It's the way of the future. Creativity is only a small part of the business writers are now expected to be expert in.
Where will it end? When will we have time to do what we want to do, which is to create? When will we be able to step away from the computer and get back outside with nature to rejuvenate our spirits? I don't know if any writer will ever have the optimal work balance. I know I haven't found it. But I'm searching. For now, the sun is shining, the mild morning temperatures promise an afternoon of sunshine and warm breezes later. I think I'll go outside and enjoy the day the Lord has created.
Have a great one!
Monday, May 07, 2007
Organizing a Blog Tour
With gas prices sitting at well over three dollars a gallon nationwide and no relief in sight since summer's coming and the oil companies have us by the throat, we writers have to do whatever we can to promote our books. What better way than a blog tour from the comfort of our homes.June 1st will see the release of my new book, Evidence of Grace, the third installment of my Jenna's Creek Series. Monday, May 14th marks the beginning of a month long blog tour. I highly recommend blog tours for any writer wanting to attract attention for an upcoming release or event. I know, you may argue that no one really reads blogs and how lucrative can a blog tour be? Well, if you've ever embarked on a book tour into actual brick and mortar bookstores, you probably know these don't have much of an impact on book sales either.
The last one I had in Cincinnati, Ohio was as dismal an affair as you can imagine. People are not impressed with meeting an author in a bookstore anymore. Unless you are a celebrity. After I got home from my signing where no one came into the store to see me and I didn't sell a single book, I read in the newspaper that James Belushi was doing a book signing in a nearby store and Tom Brokaw was in another. I totally agree with you that neither Jim Belushi or Tom Brokaw are authors and probably didn't write a word in their books, but they are celebrities and I'm not. I was also heartened to learn that even higher list authors from the big New York City publishing houses have little more luck than me at book signings.
I'm not saying I'm through wasting my time with bookstore signings; it's a necessary evil in this business. But why not try something much easier, cheaper, and easier on my ego? I notified a few writer friends, posted a plea for participants on a few writing sites I belong to and organized a blog tour. It may not garner a flood of sales. But my name might end up in a few places where it had been before.
According to my publisher, my lackluster attention to my blogs has already had a positive affect on sales. A blog tour can only improve that. The best part is, I don't have to put gas in my car. I don't even have to get dressed if I don't want to. Don't worry, I will.
Look for me next Monday at the kick-off of my tour when I will be the guest of Molly Noble Bull on her blog. I am looking forward to the whole process. I can't wait to meet you there.
Have a blessed and prosperous Monday.
Teresa
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Hate Crimes Law
Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't the term Hate Crime redundant? Or are they all someday going to be categorized as: Greed Crime, Lust Crime, Self-involved Crime, Rage Crime, etc. Come on, America, wake up. There are real issues out there that are being ignored so a chosen few can have their voice.
Please read and know that Big Brother is watching you.
The Thought Police
By Chuck Colson5/1/2007
What the Hate Crimes Law Would Do
In George Orwell’s classic novel 1984, the government Thought Police constantly spies on citizens to make sure they are not thinking rebellious thoughts. Thought crimes are severely punished by Big Brother.
1984 was intended as a warning against totalitarian governments that enslave and control their citizens. Never have we needed this warning more urgently than now, because America’s Thought Police are knocking on your door.
Last week the House Judiciary Committee, egged on by radical homosexual groups, passed what can only be called a Thought Crimes bill. It’s called the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act. But this bill is not about hate. It’s not even about crime. It’s about outlawing peaceful speech—speech that asserts that homosexual behavior is morally wrong.
Some say we need this law to prevent attacks on homosexuals. But we already have laws against assaults on people and property. Moreover, according to the FBI, crimes against homosexuals in the United States have dropped dramatically in recent years. In 2005, out of 863,000 cases of aggravated assault, just 177 cases were crimes of bias against homosexuals—far less than even 1 percent.
Another problem is that in places where hate crimes laws have been passed, hate crimes have been defined to include verbal attacks—and even peaceful speech. The Thought Police have already prosecuted Christians under hate crimes laws in England, Sweden, Canada, and even in some places in the United States.
If this dangerous law passes, pastors who preach sermons giving the biblical view of homosexuality could be prosecuted. Christian businessmen who refuse to print pro-gay literature could be prosecuted. Groups like Exodus International, which offer therapy to those with unwanted same-sex attraction, could be shut down.
In classic 1984 fashion, peaceful speech will be redefined as a violent attack worthy of punishment.
This is the unspoken goal of activist groups. We know this because during the debate over the bill last week, Congressman Mike Pence (R) of Indiana offered a Freedom of Religion amendment to this hate crimes bill. It asked that nothing in this law limit the religious freedom of any person or group under the Constitution. The committee refused to adopt it. It also refused to adopt amendments protecting other groups from hate crimes—like members of the military, who are often targets of verbal attacks and spitting. They also shot down amendments that would protect the homeless and senior citizens, also often targeted by criminals. Nothing doing, the committee said—the only group they wanted to protect: homosexuals.
Clearly, the intent of this law is not to prevent crime, but to shut down freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of thought. Its passage would strike at the very heart of our democracy.
The full Congress may vote on this bill as early as this week. Unless you want Big Brother telling you what to say, what to think, and what to believe, I urge you to contact your congressman immediately, urging him or her to vote against this bill. If you visit the BreakPoint website, you’ll find more information about this radical law.
If we do nothing, 1984 will no longer be fiction, and Big Brother will be watching you and me—ready to punish the “wrong” thoughts.
.American Family Association – Tupelo, MS 38803
www.afa.net
Please read and know that Big Brother is watching you.
The Thought Police
By Chuck Colson5/1/2007
What the Hate Crimes Law Would Do
In George Orwell’s classic novel 1984, the government Thought Police constantly spies on citizens to make sure they are not thinking rebellious thoughts. Thought crimes are severely punished by Big Brother.
1984 was intended as a warning against totalitarian governments that enslave and control their citizens. Never have we needed this warning more urgently than now, because America’s Thought Police are knocking on your door.
Last week the House Judiciary Committee, egged on by radical homosexual groups, passed what can only be called a Thought Crimes bill. It’s called the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act. But this bill is not about hate. It’s not even about crime. It’s about outlawing peaceful speech—speech that asserts that homosexual behavior is morally wrong.
Some say we need this law to prevent attacks on homosexuals. But we already have laws against assaults on people and property. Moreover, according to the FBI, crimes against homosexuals in the United States have dropped dramatically in recent years. In 2005, out of 863,000 cases of aggravated assault, just 177 cases were crimes of bias against homosexuals—far less than even 1 percent.
Another problem is that in places where hate crimes laws have been passed, hate crimes have been defined to include verbal attacks—and even peaceful speech. The Thought Police have already prosecuted Christians under hate crimes laws in England, Sweden, Canada, and even in some places in the United States.
If this dangerous law passes, pastors who preach sermons giving the biblical view of homosexuality could be prosecuted. Christian businessmen who refuse to print pro-gay literature could be prosecuted. Groups like Exodus International, which offer therapy to those with unwanted same-sex attraction, could be shut down.
In classic 1984 fashion, peaceful speech will be redefined as a violent attack worthy of punishment.
This is the unspoken goal of activist groups. We know this because during the debate over the bill last week, Congressman Mike Pence (R) of Indiana offered a Freedom of Religion amendment to this hate crimes bill. It asked that nothing in this law limit the religious freedom of any person or group under the Constitution. The committee refused to adopt it. It also refused to adopt amendments protecting other groups from hate crimes—like members of the military, who are often targets of verbal attacks and spitting. They also shot down amendments that would protect the homeless and senior citizens, also often targeted by criminals. Nothing doing, the committee said—the only group they wanted to protect: homosexuals.
Clearly, the intent of this law is not to prevent crime, but to shut down freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of thought. Its passage would strike at the very heart of our democracy.
The full Congress may vote on this bill as early as this week. Unless you want Big Brother telling you what to say, what to think, and what to believe, I urge you to contact your congressman immediately, urging him or her to vote against this bill. If you visit the BreakPoint website, you’ll find more information about this radical law.
If we do nothing, 1984 will no longer be fiction, and Big Brother will be watching you and me—ready to punish the “wrong” thoughts.
.American Family Association – Tupelo, MS 38803
www.afa.net
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Are you smarter than my son?
This morning, my son Randy was a guest on Cincinnati Radio WEBN's new morning segment, Are You Smarter than Wild Man Walker. Working off the popularity of FOX's game show, Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader, WEBN was smart enough to give Randy the opportunity to be their first contestant. It didn't hurt that Randy has been emailing them and challenging Wild Man to a sports trivia face-off for several weeks. Even though Randy missed 3 first grade level questions, he managed to beat Wild Man in a nail biter of a competition by knowing that Canada is the second largest country in land mass. Whew! All those student loans and grants are finally paying off.
Randy is a student at the Ohio Center for Broadcasting in Cincinnati and an intern at Clear Channel Radio. He absolutely loved the experience. He said everything right, avoiding the rookie "Umm's" and "Er's" that make TV and radio interviewers cringe. The hosts of the show had a great time teasing him about attending three different colleges. One told him that didn't mean he was smart, just that 3 schools had kicked him out.
But Randy handled himself with humor and aplomb. Nothing rattles him. I have known he was meant for great things since he was two years old and would stand in front of the TV and mimic the weatherman, complete with hand gestures and cold fronts.
He told me after the broadcast he is now sure this is what he wants to do with his life. Who would've thought a child of mine would want to sit behind a mike and talk for a living? You go, Randy. Your mother is very proud of you.
Randy is a student at the Ohio Center for Broadcasting in Cincinnati and an intern at Clear Channel Radio. He absolutely loved the experience. He said everything right, avoiding the rookie "Umm's" and "Er's" that make TV and radio interviewers cringe. The hosts of the show had a great time teasing him about attending three different colleges. One told him that didn't mean he was smart, just that 3 schools had kicked him out.
But Randy handled himself with humor and aplomb. Nothing rattles him. I have known he was meant for great things since he was two years old and would stand in front of the TV and mimic the weatherman, complete with hand gestures and cold fronts.
He told me after the broadcast he is now sure this is what he wants to do with his life. Who would've thought a child of mine would want to sit behind a mike and talk for a living? You go, Randy. Your mother is very proud of you.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Congratulations to the winners
Congratulations to Nancy Mleczko of Turners Falls, MA and Toni Holt of Waverly, Ohio. They are the winners of my “Be the First to Read Evidence of Grace” contest. Each winner will receive an autograph advance review copies of Evidence of Grace, the third in my Jenna’s Creek series. Thank you, ladies, for posting your reviews. These reviews really help build a buzz about upcoming books. For those of you who did not win, don’t despair, I will be hosting more contests in the future. Feel free to continue to post reviews for any of my books.
I am beginning a blog tour May 14th in honor of the official release of Evidence of Grace on June 1st. If you would like to interview me on your blog, please contact me at teresa@teresaslack.com or teresaslackfanforum@yahoo.com for details. Don't worry, blog tours are quick and painless...and lots of fun. If anyone has ideas for future contests, promotions, or surveys, please don’t keep them to yourself. Thanks to all for your participation.
Teresa
Friday, April 20, 2007
Chasing Squirrels
Behind our house is a few hundred acres of state owned property. That means I have miles of hiking trails at my disposal. It is a rural area, and I have never run into another person while up there. But I do run into wildlife.
The other day while hiking with my dog Molly, she spotted a squirrel and took off after it like her tail was on fire. She laid her ears back, lowered her body to the ground, and was digging up dirt as she flew down the trail. She wanted that squirrel so badly she could taste it. Literally, I'm sure.
I couldn't help but notice the difference in the way Molly pursued the squirrel and the way she goes after a deer. We often see whitetail deer in the woods too. I try to spot them before Molly has the chance to scare them away so I can observe their majesty and beauty. I'm fortunate to catch a glimpse before they bound over the ridgeline. As soon as Molly spots one, the chase is on. But there is a hesitancy in her stride. She doesn't lower herself to the ground. She doesn't run so fast it looks like her feet are missing the ground. She's curious, but you can tell she's wondering what in the world she'd do with the thing if she caught it.
Sometimes I wonder if we do the same thing with our writing. We say we're going to write the next great American novel. We'll do whatever it takes to finish that project and see it on the bookstore shelf. We attend conferences and read the right books and groan in indignation when a celebrity or ex-president's wife signs a multi-million dollar book deal.
But are we like Molly chasing the deer? We say we want it, but we aren't really willing to put our chests to the ground and paw up earth the way we do when we're chasing the squirrel.
You see, the squirrel isn't a threat. We're confident of our abilities should we catch the squirrel. We can handle an overgrown rat. But a deer, well that's different. We're not big enough to hold onto it on our own. We need help. So we begin our pursuit, but hold back. Even while we're running, we wonder if we've bitten off more than we can chew.
Writing is harder than it looks. It's not as romantic as we've come to believe. It's like any other job. It's hard work. It takes blood and sweat and a strong constitution to stand against the frustration and rejection. That's why you probably know someone who's talked about the same book idea for years but hasn't written the first word.
How much do you want it? Molly thinks she wants that deer when she sets off down the hill after it, but even she knows she's outmatched. She'll put forth a half-hearted attempt every time because she's a herding dog and it's in her nature to chase whatever runs from her.
It's in our nature to want affirmation. We want the pat on the back, the accolades, the respect of our peers, the right to say we've done something that most others only dream about. But are we willing to get down in the dirt and go after it? Only you know how badly you want to catch the illusive dream of writing a novel or seeing your name in a national magazine's byline.
Don't be afraid to chase your dreams. Don't let your dreams be stopped by the fear of what happens should you catch them. Pretend it's only a squirrel you're chasing and see how far it takes you.
The other day while hiking with my dog Molly, she spotted a squirrel and took off after it like her tail was on fire. She laid her ears back, lowered her body to the ground, and was digging up dirt as she flew down the trail. She wanted that squirrel so badly she could taste it. Literally, I'm sure.
I couldn't help but notice the difference in the way Molly pursued the squirrel and the way she goes after a deer. We often see whitetail deer in the woods too. I try to spot them before Molly has the chance to scare them away so I can observe their majesty and beauty. I'm fortunate to catch a glimpse before they bound over the ridgeline. As soon as Molly spots one, the chase is on. But there is a hesitancy in her stride. She doesn't lower herself to the ground. She doesn't run so fast it looks like her feet are missing the ground. She's curious, but you can tell she's wondering what in the world she'd do with the thing if she caught it.
Sometimes I wonder if we do the same thing with our writing. We say we're going to write the next great American novel. We'll do whatever it takes to finish that project and see it on the bookstore shelf. We attend conferences and read the right books and groan in indignation when a celebrity or ex-president's wife signs a multi-million dollar book deal.
But are we like Molly chasing the deer? We say we want it, but we aren't really willing to put our chests to the ground and paw up earth the way we do when we're chasing the squirrel.
You see, the squirrel isn't a threat. We're confident of our abilities should we catch the squirrel. We can handle an overgrown rat. But a deer, well that's different. We're not big enough to hold onto it on our own. We need help. So we begin our pursuit, but hold back. Even while we're running, we wonder if we've bitten off more than we can chew.
Writing is harder than it looks. It's not as romantic as we've come to believe. It's like any other job. It's hard work. It takes blood and sweat and a strong constitution to stand against the frustration and rejection. That's why you probably know someone who's talked about the same book idea for years but hasn't written the first word.
How much do you want it? Molly thinks she wants that deer when she sets off down the hill after it, but even she knows she's outmatched. She'll put forth a half-hearted attempt every time because she's a herding dog and it's in her nature to chase whatever runs from her.
It's in our nature to want affirmation. We want the pat on the back, the accolades, the respect of our peers, the right to say we've done something that most others only dream about. But are we willing to get down in the dirt and go after it? Only you know how badly you want to catch the illusive dream of writing a novel or seeing your name in a national magazine's byline.
Don't be afraid to chase your dreams. Don't let your dreams be stopped by the fear of what happens should you catch them. Pretend it's only a squirrel you're chasing and see how far it takes you.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Virginia Massacre
One can't begin to imagine the terror of walking into a classroom and being forced to stand against a wall...The agony and chaotic thoughts raging through your mind as you think of parents and friends and loved ones and worry about how much they will worry about you until they know you're safe...Or not.
I don't even know what I'm thinking right now so I don't know what to write. To think that I make my living with my pen, yet at this moment I can't form a cognizant thought. The only thing I am certain of at this moment is God is still on the throne and He is still in control.
At this time of disbelief, shock, anger, frustration, betrayal, fear, and desolation, let us call on Jesus. My prayers go out to every student, parent, friend, professor, and staff member of every campus in this country. Please know that God in here in our midst, in our sorrow. May you be comforted in this time of grief.
I don't even know what I'm thinking right now so I don't know what to write. To think that I make my living with my pen, yet at this moment I can't form a cognizant thought. The only thing I am certain of at this moment is God is still on the throne and He is still in control.
At this time of disbelief, shock, anger, frustration, betrayal, fear, and desolation, let us call on Jesus. My prayers go out to every student, parent, friend, professor, and staff member of every campus in this country. Please know that God in here in our midst, in our sorrow. May you be comforted in this time of grief.
Monday, April 09, 2007
25th High School Reunion
I received an invitation to my high school reunion last week. Egads! How did this happen? Is it possible that 25 years have passed since I walked across the stage in my cap and gown?
Apparently yes, since these people remember me and request the pleasure of my company at a celebration of the event this June. Even though I haven't earned a million dollars or been awarded a professional sports contract--as if anyone ever thought I would--or an Academy Award or a Nobel prize, I did get a few books published. You gotta admit that's cool and they'll all think so. So I should leave the festivities with my vanity intact, but that still begs the question--what happened to the last 25 years?
Most of the time, high school seems to have happened to someone else. Because of family issues and normal teenage angst, it isn't a period in my life I dwell on. I'd rather think on the last few years when I've become reasonably financially sound, accepting of my body, family nose, and bad teeth, confident enough to speak in front of people, and confident that I might actually have something worth hearing. But when I receive an invitation to a high school reunion, I can't help but remember, if only for a moment, those days as if they were yesterday.
It wasn't all bad. Anyone remember the movie Carrie? Of course you do. My son tells people who weren't fortunate enough to have been there, I looked like Sissy Spacek, just before those evil kids dropped a bucket of blood on her. Real eye candy. Sadly his description isn't too far off the mark. I was equally as popular.
For unpopular, unlovely, debilitatingly shy kids like me, a high school reunion is almost vindication. "See, I didn't turn out half bad. I finally learned what to do with this head of thick blonde hair and my voice doesn't quake in terror if I don't know the answer to your dumb question." Things couldn't have gotten any worse. If you haven't attended a high school reunion, don't pass up the opportunity to go, even if you've gained 50 pounds and lost all your hair. Believe me, no one will care. They'll love you anyway. I was surprised by the fun I had at my 20th. The popularity divisions had broken down over the years and become obsolete. It didn't matter if you were rich in high school, shy, athletic, preppy, or punk. Or whether we were putting our own kids into college or diapers, we were all the same. An aging group of small town kids who spent one night out of 25 years remembering the good times and intentionally ignoring the bad.
But I still haven't answered my question of where the last 25 years went.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Blog tour for Larkspur Dreams
I am pleased and excited to participate in a blog tour of Anita Higman and Janice Thompson who are celebrating the release of their book, Larkspur Dreams. Enjoy the interview and anyone who comments to this blog will be entered in a drawing to win a copy of the book. Now I'll turn the stage over to Anita and Janice.Thanks, Teresa, for inviting me (Anita Higman) and Janice Thompson to your blog. We’re excited about a novel we’ve written together.
Your Heartsong is entitled, Larkspur Dreams. What’s the theme of your novel?
Anita: Letting God grow us beyond ourselves.
Janice: Opposites not only attract; God often uses our “polar opposite” to complete/fulfill us.
Anita, you and Janice coauthored Larkspur Dreams. How do writers go about coauthoring?
Anita: There are a number of ways to coauthor a novel. One writer can do the research and the other writer can actually write the story. Or coauthors can each choose a character and write from that character’s POV. In the three books we’re writing together, I guess you could say I’m writing the body and wings of the stories, and Janice is helping to make them fly. She has a quite a gift for critiquing.
Janice: Working with Anita is a breeze because she conceives and fully plots the stories then lets me add my thoughts/tidbits to give them flavor. She is so quirky and fun to work with, and I am very proud of the stories we have co-produced. I especially loved the character of Larkspur because I see so much of myself in her.
Were there times when it was hard to work together?
Anita: No hard times. Janice Thompson is a gentle dove of a woman. She is not only talented, but easy to work with. There were a few times in one of the novels that I found myself writing in a way that strayed from the general concept of a Heartsong romance. Janice made some good suggestions, which steered me in the right direction.
Janice: I can honestly say that I’ve never worked with anyone who was so willing to accept critique and/or take suggestions as Anita. She is a precious friend and collaborative partner. I already knew she was talented (even before we began this project) but had no idea how gracious she would be. Since I’ve written for the Heartsong line for years, I was able to “teach her the ropes” (as it were) and she was a ready learner! That’s not to say she hasn’t taught me a thing or two. I’ve learned much from her throughout this process, particularly as it applies to romantic tension. She’s far better at that than I am, and I’m happy to admit it.
Why did you choose to be a writer?
Anita: Ever since I was a little girl, I had this need to express myself in some sort of artistic medium. I’ve tried a number of things: piano, painting, decorating, and acting. But I’ve never been very good at any these endeavors, except writing. I guess really then—writing chose me.
Janice: Like Anita, I’ve always been artistic. As a youngster, I sang, danced and played the piano. I was also very involved in theater as a young person. I’ve been writing since childhood. I wrote my first novella in 6th grade, then went on to write musical comedies for the stage before turning to books in the mid-90’s. Like Anita, I can truly say that I didn’t choose writing; it chose me. Or, perhaps I should say that God chose it for me, as a gift.
How would you describe the characters in Larkspur Dreams?
Anita: Lark and Everett are total opposites. Lark is a sanguine and a free-spirit who loves people and loves being alive. Everett is a cautious guy who enjoys numbers more than people. I love throwing characters together who’ll stir up trouble just by being in the same room.
Janice: As mentioned above, I really related to Larkspur on many levels. She’s as fun-loving and free-spirited as they come. All artsy types will agree! To give her a love interest like Everett (ironically, my grandfather’s name) was terrific because we really got to explore the “opposites attract” principle. It worked like a charm!
Did you both enjoy working with these characters? Why?
Anita: Many of my characters are bits of me. Lark is only a small part of me. I’m more of a melancholy/choleric, and Lark is really a true sanguine with a little bit of phlegmatic thrown in. She is the life of the party, and everybody loves being around her. I enjoyed writing about Lark, because I am a Lark-wannabe. Aren’t we all?
Janice: Will I embarrass myself too much if I say that I enjoy being the life of the party, like Larkspur? I do! I’m a real people person, and I thrive on the affections of the people God has placed in my life. Consequently, I really loved this character. As for Everett. . . I had to “grasp” the concept that someone could actually “be” like that. He seemed foreign to me! But, of course, he was Lark’s perfect/ideal man!
How long have you been writing?
Anita: I’ve been writing for twenty-two years. It’s been a long journey, a hard journey at times, but I’m glad I didn’t get off the train. During those many years, I had a variety of books published, mostly nonfiction, but the passion for writing novels never left me. When I first started this whole process, my kids were little. It became difficult to sit down and concentrate on writing, but I did find bits of time. Also, kids go to bed earlier than adults, so I used that block of time to write rather than watch television. Now, empty nest is around the corner, so soon I’ll have even more time to write.
Janice: I’ve been writing professionally since the 90’s. As mentioned earlier, I wrote musical comedies for the stage. (I was a drama director at a Christian school of the arts for several years.) My first “published” works were magazine articles, then I sold my first novel (Duty to Die) in 2000. Since then, I’ve written/published over 20 books, in nearly every genre: historical fiction, contemporary inspirational romance, cozy mystery, non-fiction devotional, and Christian living.
When did you have your first success as a writer?
Anita: After several years of writing, I had some gradual success—books for children, books of one-act plays, and nonfiction for women. These successes were enough to keep me going toward my ultimate goal, which was to write novels.
Janice: This may sound a bit silly, but my first real writing “success” happened my senior year in high school, when I was chosen to help write the senior production. I had a blast, and the scene I crafted (a 1930’s/Busby Berkeley-esque “The Show Must Go On” scene) was a huge success. I can’t tell you what fun I had, or how great it felt for people to respond as they did.
Do you have any special methods of getting into the writing zone, such as favorite scents, music, or certain foods?
Anita: Sometimes I go to a local French café, order coffee and scrambled eggs, and then write a rough chapter. The noise, music, and bustle energizes me creatively.
Janice: An "ideal" writing situation for me would involve someplace like Starbucks (or otherwise) with a cup of my favorite hot beverage in my hand (to be discussed below). Ironically, when I'm at home, I can't stand having music going. I find it terribly distracting... something about the "beat" drives me nutty. Having the television on is okay, but it's often muted. Crazy, I know. I'm a fanatic about my Diet Dr. Pepper and several flavors of hot tea. I particularly love Earl Grey and Chai Latte, among others. And I'm nuts about hot chocolate in the wintertime. I'm also crazy about my puppies. I have two red mini-dachshunds named Sasha and Copper. They usually settle in next to me on the sofa, Sasha on my right, Copper on my left. When we're all in place (with a cup of tea or a Diet Dr. Pepper on the end table, depending on the season) I'm ready to begin. Of course, I usually have to weed through several emails (clearing a path) before I can actually start writing. Whew! Sounds like quite a process, doesn't it?! It's a wonder I get anything done at all!
What is your best advice for aspiring writers?
Anita: If you feel called to write, don’t let people discourage you. I’m sure they don’t realize the impact of their words, but negative remarks can undermine our courage and joy. Comments similar to: “Maybe you weren’t really meant to be published.” Or, “Are you making any money at this yet?” Perhaps you’ve heard, “Why can’t you write like my favorite author?” Honestly, I could go on and on here. Writing is a great and honorable profession—one that can challenge, inspire, and change people’s lives. If you love words and love arranging them into stories, then don’t let the battering influence of dispiriting comments shatter your dream. Keep pressing on!
Janice: I often say this to young/new writers: Learn the craft, but don’t necessarily write what the publishers/agents/houses tell you to write. Trends change. Stick with the stories God places on your heart and if He intends them to be published, He will find the right publishing house in the right time.
What are your writing plans for the future?
Anita: I’d love to write romantic suspense. I’m also interested in fantasy.
Janice: I’m open to whatever God wants (and I really mean that). If He shifts me in a new direction (women’s fiction, for example) I’m following His lead! If He asks me to lay the writing down for a season in order to accomplish a different task, I’m open to that, too.
We’d love for you to visit our websites at http://www.anitahigman.com/ and http://www.janiceathompson.com/. If you’re interested in our Heartsong novel, Larkspur Dreams, it can be ordered online right now through Barbour Publishing at http://www.barbourbooks.com/book/detail/larkspur-dreams-h-s-734/
Thanks for inviting us to your blog. It’s been fun!
Your Heartsong is entitled, Larkspur Dreams. What’s the theme of your novel?
Anita: Letting God grow us beyond ourselves.
Janice: Opposites not only attract; God often uses our “polar opposite” to complete/fulfill us.
Anita, you and Janice coauthored Larkspur Dreams. How do writers go about coauthoring?
Anita: There are a number of ways to coauthor a novel. One writer can do the research and the other writer can actually write the story. Or coauthors can each choose a character and write from that character’s POV. In the three books we’re writing together, I guess you could say I’m writing the body and wings of the stories, and Janice is helping to make them fly. She has a quite a gift for critiquing.
Janice: Working with Anita is a breeze because she conceives and fully plots the stories then lets me add my thoughts/tidbits to give them flavor. She is so quirky and fun to work with, and I am very proud of the stories we have co-produced. I especially loved the character of Larkspur because I see so much of myself in her.
Were there times when it was hard to work together?
Anita: No hard times. Janice Thompson is a gentle dove of a woman. She is not only talented, but easy to work with. There were a few times in one of the novels that I found myself writing in a way that strayed from the general concept of a Heartsong romance. Janice made some good suggestions, which steered me in the right direction.
Janice: I can honestly say that I’ve never worked with anyone who was so willing to accept critique and/or take suggestions as Anita. She is a precious friend and collaborative partner. I already knew she was talented (even before we began this project) but had no idea how gracious she would be. Since I’ve written for the Heartsong line for years, I was able to “teach her the ropes” (as it were) and she was a ready learner! That’s not to say she hasn’t taught me a thing or two. I’ve learned much from her throughout this process, particularly as it applies to romantic tension. She’s far better at that than I am, and I’m happy to admit it.
Why did you choose to be a writer?
Anita: Ever since I was a little girl, I had this need to express myself in some sort of artistic medium. I’ve tried a number of things: piano, painting, decorating, and acting. But I’ve never been very good at any these endeavors, except writing. I guess really then—writing chose me.
Janice: Like Anita, I’ve always been artistic. As a youngster, I sang, danced and played the piano. I was also very involved in theater as a young person. I’ve been writing since childhood. I wrote my first novella in 6th grade, then went on to write musical comedies for the stage before turning to books in the mid-90’s. Like Anita, I can truly say that I didn’t choose writing; it chose me. Or, perhaps I should say that God chose it for me, as a gift.
How would you describe the characters in Larkspur Dreams?
Anita: Lark and Everett are total opposites. Lark is a sanguine and a free-spirit who loves people and loves being alive. Everett is a cautious guy who enjoys numbers more than people. I love throwing characters together who’ll stir up trouble just by being in the same room.
Janice: As mentioned above, I really related to Larkspur on many levels. She’s as fun-loving and free-spirited as they come. All artsy types will agree! To give her a love interest like Everett (ironically, my grandfather’s name) was terrific because we really got to explore the “opposites attract” principle. It worked like a charm!
Did you both enjoy working with these characters? Why?
Anita: Many of my characters are bits of me. Lark is only a small part of me. I’m more of a melancholy/choleric, and Lark is really a true sanguine with a little bit of phlegmatic thrown in. She is the life of the party, and everybody loves being around her. I enjoyed writing about Lark, because I am a Lark-wannabe. Aren’t we all?
Janice: Will I embarrass myself too much if I say that I enjoy being the life of the party, like Larkspur? I do! I’m a real people person, and I thrive on the affections of the people God has placed in my life. Consequently, I really loved this character. As for Everett. . . I had to “grasp” the concept that someone could actually “be” like that. He seemed foreign to me! But, of course, he was Lark’s perfect/ideal man!
How long have you been writing?
Anita: I’ve been writing for twenty-two years. It’s been a long journey, a hard journey at times, but I’m glad I didn’t get off the train. During those many years, I had a variety of books published, mostly nonfiction, but the passion for writing novels never left me. When I first started this whole process, my kids were little. It became difficult to sit down and concentrate on writing, but I did find bits of time. Also, kids go to bed earlier than adults, so I used that block of time to write rather than watch television. Now, empty nest is around the corner, so soon I’ll have even more time to write.
Janice: I’ve been writing professionally since the 90’s. As mentioned earlier, I wrote musical comedies for the stage. (I was a drama director at a Christian school of the arts for several years.) My first “published” works were magazine articles, then I sold my first novel (Duty to Die) in 2000. Since then, I’ve written/published over 20 books, in nearly every genre: historical fiction, contemporary inspirational romance, cozy mystery, non-fiction devotional, and Christian living.
When did you have your first success as a writer?
Anita: After several years of writing, I had some gradual success—books for children, books of one-act plays, and nonfiction for women. These successes were enough to keep me going toward my ultimate goal, which was to write novels.
Janice: This may sound a bit silly, but my first real writing “success” happened my senior year in high school, when I was chosen to help write the senior production. I had a blast, and the scene I crafted (a 1930’s/Busby Berkeley-esque “The Show Must Go On” scene) was a huge success. I can’t tell you what fun I had, or how great it felt for people to respond as they did.
Do you have any special methods of getting into the writing zone, such as favorite scents, music, or certain foods?
Anita: Sometimes I go to a local French café, order coffee and scrambled eggs, and then write a rough chapter. The noise, music, and bustle energizes me creatively.
Janice: An "ideal" writing situation for me would involve someplace like Starbucks (or otherwise) with a cup of my favorite hot beverage in my hand (to be discussed below). Ironically, when I'm at home, I can't stand having music going. I find it terribly distracting... something about the "beat" drives me nutty. Having the television on is okay, but it's often muted. Crazy, I know. I'm a fanatic about my Diet Dr. Pepper and several flavors of hot tea. I particularly love Earl Grey and Chai Latte, among others. And I'm nuts about hot chocolate in the wintertime. I'm also crazy about my puppies. I have two red mini-dachshunds named Sasha and Copper. They usually settle in next to me on the sofa, Sasha on my right, Copper on my left. When we're all in place (with a cup of tea or a Diet Dr. Pepper on the end table, depending on the season) I'm ready to begin. Of course, I usually have to weed through several emails (clearing a path) before I can actually start writing. Whew! Sounds like quite a process, doesn't it?! It's a wonder I get anything done at all!
What is your best advice for aspiring writers?
Anita: If you feel called to write, don’t let people discourage you. I’m sure they don’t realize the impact of their words, but negative remarks can undermine our courage and joy. Comments similar to: “Maybe you weren’t really meant to be published.” Or, “Are you making any money at this yet?” Perhaps you’ve heard, “Why can’t you write like my favorite author?” Honestly, I could go on and on here. Writing is a great and honorable profession—one that can challenge, inspire, and change people’s lives. If you love words and love arranging them into stories, then don’t let the battering influence of dispiriting comments shatter your dream. Keep pressing on!
Janice: I often say this to young/new writers: Learn the craft, but don’t necessarily write what the publishers/agents/houses tell you to write. Trends change. Stick with the stories God places on your heart and if He intends them to be published, He will find the right publishing house in the right time.
What are your writing plans for the future?
Anita: I’d love to write romantic suspense. I’m also interested in fantasy.
Janice: I’m open to whatever God wants (and I really mean that). If He shifts me in a new direction (women’s fiction, for example) I’m following His lead! If He asks me to lay the writing down for a season in order to accomplish a different task, I’m open to that, too.
We’d love for you to visit our websites at http://www.anitahigman.com/ and http://www.janiceathompson.com/. If you’re interested in our Heartsong novel, Larkspur Dreams, it can be ordered online right now through Barbour Publishing at http://www.barbourbooks.com/book/detail/larkspur-dreams-h-s-734/
Thanks for inviting us to your blog. It’s been fun!
Award-winning author, Anita Higman, has nineteen books published (several coauthored) for adults and children. She has been honored as a Barnes & Noble “Author of the Month” for Houston. Anita has a B.A. degree, combining speech communication, psychology, and art. She’d love for you to visit her website at http://www.anitahigman.com/. Janice Thompson is a Christian author of over a dozen books - everything from inspirational romances to historical novels, to non-fiction books. She lives in the Houston area with her family and two very mischievous dachshunds. She’d be happy for you to visit her website at http://www.janicethompson.com/.
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