Coffee & Critique Writers Group

Calling All Poets - Sage Books Poetry Open-Mic

2011-11-10T18:39:00.001-08:00

Last Wednesday, I went to the first ever open mic poetry night Sage Books in Frenchtown St. Charles. It was lovely. I did not know how much I missed poetry until I was surrounded by people who took such joy in sharing it.

When I was teaching, I could share my literary passions with my students. But life got busy after I changed jobs and I lost the connection, the time to live an examined life. Major bummer. But good news, poetry fans! You can get in touch with your inner poet at the next open mic at Sage Books on Wednesday, November 16th at 8 p.m.

Come and read, or just enjoy the poetry love in the air - the first and third Wednesday of every month. Hope to see you there....

P.S. - Originally I had posted it as 7 p.m., but it looks like they moved it to 8 p.m. Just FYI.

Cool Video Courtesy of Catherine, Caffeinated

2011-09-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

O.k. Kenon,

This is for you because at the moment, I don't have two brain cells to rub together to create something original. But the person who made this video sure does.

I found this over at Catherine, Caffeinated. She is a successful self-published author from Ireland who blogs her wisdom for the rest of us. I loved her book on working in the fantasy land that is Disney world, Mousetrapped. I recommend anyone who thinks of self-publishing check out her blog.

on

It makes me want to be an exchange student again.....

Writing Weekend: Final Results

2011-06-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

Total Weekend Wordcount: 6511 words

Not as much as I would like, but more than I had when I started. But that's about 1/10 of a book if you're shooting for 60,000 words. Not bad when you think of it that way. I set high goals so even if I fell short, I'd still have a pretty decent word count.

Onward and upward...

Writing Weekend Update: Saturday

2011-06-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

Revised Word goal: 5000
Current Word Count: 2,318

I find my writing day has had more ups and downs than the sand dunes on Bay Watch. It goes something like this:

Wake up
Realize I feel like I'm coming down with something but ignore it - no excuses
Feed the cats
Eat something
Avoid looking at my laptop several times
Turn on some classical music
Read a book to get inspired
Avoid looking at my laptop again
Accidentally look at my laptop and force myself to go over and get started
Struggle to write a few words
Consider putting the deathstar in the story somewhere
Avoid writers' block by surfing the internet
Realize I've already read everything at the usual websites I visit during last night's attempt to avoid writing
Struggle not to turn on the television for a quick "break"
Write a few words
Play fetch with the cat
Switch projects out of desperation
Write a few words and get on a roll
Stop to do a word count of my prodigious production and realize I've only written 500 words instead of 5,000
Despair that anyone will ever want to read anything I have written because it's boring and puerile
Admire a passage I wrote yesterday when I was still a writer, and the virus I'm getting had not destroyed the writing center of my brain
Cut my word goal for the day in half
Watch the cats sleep while they lay as close as they can get to me on the couch
Imagine a day when this might be my day job, and I get to watch them sleep as I write
Smile
Frown
Resent their peaceful napping as I despair that I will ever finish a project
Blog about my writing day
Look at the long evening ahead and resolve to do better
Procrastinate by adding bullets to this list

You can see how little actual writing has taken place. I did better last night than I have all day to day. Part of it is I'm still too controlling. I don't want to make a big draft mess I'll have to clean up later, so I have to plan what comes next. This makes writing a lot like constipation. Nothing comes of it.

I've decided it's time to make a mess, or there will be nothing to clean up. I'll let you know how it turns out :)

Weekend Writing Marathon: Friday Word Count

2011-06-24T22:35:00.000-07:00

Added another 1,258 words to my total for tonight. I was shooting for at least 2,000 total.
Current total: 2,643. Not bad for starting after work.

Tomorrow's goal: 10,000 words.

Weekend Writing Marathon

2011-06-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

The kids are gone for the next 5 days. There is no Memorial Day/Mother's day/Father's Day/Arbor Day/Family Birthday that I must attend this weekend. No! You may not come over. My lawn is mowed. My fridge is full. The cats have been fed and restrained with duct tape. Holy schmoley, Batman. I have no excuse not to get my wordy on. God help me.

I have schitzophrenically changed books again, done 1,436 words, and read wondertabulous blogs on self-publishing including this one that referred me to this absolutely scary, funny and incredamazing one who's title I cannot mention (mom, don't click on that one). It has me sinking to the depths of despair, down into the muddy muck of the river bed and digging my little toes in hard in fear that it might be me - jumping the gun. Diving in too soon. Oh wait. I have to actually finish the book first. What am I doing here talking to you people?

Random Crap I Write When I Can't Think of What Comes Next In My Book

2011-06-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

The good news is I'm making progress on my shitty first draft (6,524 words) The bad news is my brain often spins around like a hamster on a wheel, falls off the wheel, then staggers off to the left because his hamster sense of balance has been shot to hell.

I got this far in my romance story (my heroine has fallen down the stairs in the hero's family home and has a sprained ankle). Then the hamster wheel came out. I couldn't think of one more word to write. Thus, I produced what is below:

After she got dressed, Ellie wondered out to see if she could get a ride home. Bakery smells led her to the kitchen. Mrs. Giordano exclaimed when she saw her. “Ellie. How are you feeling. Do you need to sit down?” She pulled out a stool and helped Ellie arrange the crutches against the counter.

But no. She could not stay in the kitchen. Ellie was drawn by an irresistible compulsion to quest. She got up and ascended Mt. Doom on her crutches. But she couldn’t not bring herself to cast the graven crutch into the fiery molten lava. Then fairies stole it from her. Then she died. And I am glad. Die, Ellie, die.

The End

I hope it will be better tomorrow. Otherwise the deathstar comes out.

Romance and Paranormal Book Cover Designer for Ebooks - Hot Damn Designs

2011-05-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

So as I obsess over all things related to Kindle self-publishing, I've been looking at romance book cover designers. In my quest, I found Hot Damn Designs.

I am one of those people who admit to judging a book by its cover - meaning I will at least pick it up and read the description if the cover gets my attention. I've seen news stories that say you have less than 10 seconds to attract a buyers attention via book cover, but mainly I am basing it on my own experience shopping for books.

When I go buy a book on Kindle by an indie author, I consider the cover a sign of how much effort the author put into the book. A bad cover might equal badly edited book. Do I have any proof of this? Hell no. But I figure a few other people out there might think the way I do when selecting ebooks. When I finish my romance novel, I think Hot Damn Designs will be the place to go. I want my baby to look cool for the first day of school in the Kindle marketplace.

I am a fan of St. Louis author Angie Fox's Accidental Demon Slayer series - story and cover design. (You can read the first chapter here.) Hot Damn does her book covers and they look spiffy. The designer, Kimberly Killion, is also located near St. Louis which appeals to me since I live in the metro area. Why? Hell if I know. I love that I can talk to people everywhere in the world online, but there is just something about knowing the person you are doing business with is close by - even if you only communicate through email. It makes no sense, but there you have it.

She will also do a website design to match your book/genre, and I think her prices are pretty reasonable. You can read an interview she did with Novelists, Inc here. I don't know her, so I have no vested interest. But I know what I like...

My Cure for Insomnia

2011-04-22T16:55:00.000-07:00

I love this. It soothes my soul every time. Sleep well, everyone.

Kindle Publishing: Unexpected Pitfalls

2011-04-18T18:17:00.000-07:00

I have discovered that it is much more fun to read about authors who are selling lots of books on the Kindle, and imagine that I am them, than it is to write a novel of my own to put onto the Kindle. Don't let this happen to you...

Sigh. I am off to work, finally.

Let the Great Kindle Experiment Begin

2011-04-11T20:50:00.000-07:00

Of course, there is a catch to the great Kindle publishing frenzy (as I learned a the MWG conference). If you actually want to have a decent looking, marketable book, you will pay. A couple hundred for a cover design, a couple hundred to have your writing formatted for all the electronic venues, a buck twenty five for an ISBN number - x 2 if you have a print and electronic version.

It makes sense if you want to have a good quality book - it isn't free. Wasn't it pretty to think so. Now reality. So its time to save up and invest in my career. But like most authors, I have the writer's version of ADD. Which project to go with? I have just been to a writing conference, and now I'm looking at the smorgasboard of writing ideas that result from being around other creative people.

Decisions, decisions. I think it may be my zombie book. We'll see tomorrow, though. Night.

A Fascinating Discussion of Ebooks vs Paper

2011-03-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

Still looking at the ebook publishing concept and saw this thought-provoking discussion between J.A Konrath and Barry Eisler on how paper is on the way out and ebooks have already won the war. I am certainly disposed to drink the kool-aid, so someone please point out the flaws in this argument.

Okay. Truthfully I can see some flaws. Many people put there writing out there before it's fully cooked. I do think quality writing will rise to the top, but as time goes on, there will be more and more to sift through. I'm interested to see where the quality control will come from.

But they actually convinced me that I don't want a monolithic publisher in charge of my writing. It's like giving your kid to a babysitter with a hundred kids to look after and expecting yours to get the treatment he or she deserves. New authors are expected to care for and market their own books. A publisher just gets you bookstore distribution - and business isn't looking so hot for brick and mortar bookstores. And if it doesn't hit quickly, the publisher moves on and you are left crying in your beer. I think I'll go read some blogs against epublishing and see if they bring me back over from the dark side. You never know...

Make a Million Publishing Your Book on Kindle?

2011-03-17T19:28:00.000-07:00

So has anyone read Nathan Bransford's blog on the self-published Kindle millionaires? Its awfully tempting to go straight to making books available on Kindle. I am not expecting to be an Amanda Hocking or J.A. Konrath. They are making hundreds of thousands at this, but hey, some extra money would be nice. Or let's face it, any at all.

Hocking had shopped her book to agents unsuccessfully. She just wanted to make some extra cash for a trip she was going on. Now she is making major bucks selling books for .99 cents. The low price point makes sense. I would take a chance on a book that is well reviewed by book bloggers for a mere buck. The soda machine at work costs more... Some books are 2.99, but that still means I can get 2 for the usual price of one. That's hours more of reading enjoyment. A whole series of 6 could be $6 bucks and on my Kindle forever (sniff, or they could have been if my Kindle hadn't been stolen from my house a few weeks ago).

I will certainly be buying more self-pubbed books if I ever save up enough to get another Kindle.

The lower ereader prices (many ereaders have dropped to around $100, and it's just $139 for the new 3G-less Kindle) mean more readers. But more authors will be trying to publish this way, which means your writing will have to shine if want to rise to the top of the .99 cent offerings.

But I am quitting my 2nd job in order to write more, and it has me seriously thinking about publishing on the Kindle. I am finally at a point when I can dedicate myself to my writing.

I don't think everyone will do this. Both Hocking and J.A. Konrath are prolific writers and marketers. Most of us still have the simple butt-in-chair problem that keeps us from getting anywhere. But I have friends who have terrific books ready to go. And with some monetary motivation and that dastardly immediate gratification, I could certainly be seduced...

Many writers have a vision for their book, and it doesn't always survive the traditional publishing submission process. Agents and editors often dictate changes according to a formula, and sometimes they are all too right. But let's face it, they don't always know what will make books sell. As Amanda Hocking points out, none of us really do. But at least with Kindle publishing, that much-loved book gets a chance to breath free air. For better or worse. Hmmmmm. So if sharing your writing is important to you, the money might be nice, but it's secondary to just being heard.

Something to think about.

Christmas Food Court Flash Mob, Hallelujah Chorus - Must See!

2010-12-06T22:02:00.000-08:00

Nano Continues

2010-11-05T21:06:00.000-07:00

Nano Word Count for today: 1721
Total Word Count: around 5300 (I'm actually cheating and adding to a novel I already started at about 6700 words.

I remember this being easier last time. Course my brain was younger and time dulls the memory of profound pain. That's it. I'm out of words for today.

Sleep well Nanoers. We'll do it all again tomorrow.

NanoWriMo Continues and Harlequin Looks for New Writers

2010-11-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

Word Count today: 1409. I'm working my way up. Let's hope I can catch up some this weekend.

Sioux? Sanders? Mary? How's it going?

Has anyone managed to check out Harlequins "So You Think You Can Write?" They are looking for new voices and this week-long workshop is free to anyone who wants to learn about the genre. It ends tomorrow, but it's still an awsome opportunity for aspiring romance novelists. Many of this week's discussions are archived if you're interested.

NanoWriMo Oh No!

2010-11-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

This has been the worst week ever to start NanoWrimo. But I'm doing it. Alas, tonight I will only have 200 words done for today, but it is more than I had yesterday. I did plan out some future scenes while my students were doing research in the library.

Fie and a curse upon two classes in one week, a car with a naughty check engine light, a backed up bathroom floor drain and sundry madness.

Nano Total so Far: 3300

Send some good vibrations my way people; I'm going to need it.

2010-09-14T06:28:00.001-07:00

Writing Real Characters: Pretend Your Character Has Been Taken Hostage

2010-09-12T19:32:00.000-07:00

Some of the stories I like best have vivid, memorable characters:

Sookie Stackhouse - a small town southern barmaid who happens to read people's minds and date vampires

Elizabeth Bennet - a woman in a man's world who refuses to marry for money, likes long rambles in the woods and sarcastic skewering of self-important people, and has embarrassing parents and immature siblings

Harry Potter - an orphaned wizard boy who defeated The Dark Lord Voldemort before he could even walk

Mary Shannon - a federal marshal who's gambling-addicted father abandoned the family when she was a child

Sheldon Cooper - a theoretical physicist with OCD tendencies that border on the psychotic, a rabid love of comic books and a mother who believes Jesus saves

And I want to write characters people will care about. So I'm going to pretend they've been taken hostage. They have two minutes to make themselves human to the kidnapper so he won't blow their brains out.

So what would you tell someone to save your life, to make you a person to him or her? Not your job or level of education.

Maybe that you grew up in a small town and every summer went to the Tasty Freeze for frozen chocolate-covered bananas. You bite your nails when you're nervous. You have divorced parents who scarred you for life and you weigh 30 pounds too much. You are addicted to roller derby or European rugby. You are still afraid of the monsters in your closet and mainline sweet tea for breakfast.

Your dreams, hopes, fears and quirks are what make you an individual - a character. So once I figure those out, I might have a shot at writing a character worth reading about.

Missouri Writers' Guild Flash Fiction Contest

2010-08-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

MISSOURI WRITERS’ GUILD – FLASH FICTION CONTEST

Flash Fiction – Get to the point in 500 words or less. Subject is open, but no gore or pornography.
Deadline for entry—submissions must be postmarked no later than September 30, 2010.

3. Entry fee: $10 for non-members, $8 for members (make sure your dues are current.) Maximum of three entries per person.

4. Checks payable to: Missouri Writers’ Guild.

5. Prizes: 1^st place - $100, 2^nd place - $50, 3^rd place - $25. Three honorable mentions will receive certificates.

6. Short stories must be in English, unpublished at the time of submission, and original work of the contestant.

7. Contestants retain all rights to their stories. Standard manuscript format: 8 1/2 x 11 paper, typed and double-spaced on one side of the paper, pages numbered, title of entry on every page, 12 point Times New Roman. Paper clip pages together. Contestants name or other identifying information should not appear anywhere on manuscript.

8. Attach a separate cover sheet and include: story title, contestant’s name, address, e-mail, phone number, and MWG chapter name (if applicable). Do NOT send by certified mail!

9. Mail entry fee and two copies of each entry, flat, not folded, by September 30 (postmark) to:

Tricia L. Sanders
Missouri Writers’ Guild – Flash Fiction Contest
90 Westwood Trails
Foristell, MO 63348

10. Stories exceeding word limit, not having adequate postage, or not adhering to contest guidelines will be disqualified and entry fee will not be returned. Decision of judge is final. Not responsible for lost or misdirected entries. Stories will not be returned. For a list of winners, visit our website in late October 2010: www.missouriwritersguild.org Certificates and prizes will be mailed by the end of October.

You Can't Make These People Up

2010-06-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

So. My car grunted and expired battery-wise on Sunday. Which was really nice of it cause it wasn't after work some dark scary night. I thought I lucked out as far as you can when you're car won't go.

Until I met tow truck man. Kudos to me for having AAA. No cookie for them because they let this guy out to associate with people.

He arrives right before the tornado from OZ is about to strike a glancing blow on my hometown. The whole day has been a moisty hot mess, and it decides to storm in the 10 minutes I'm having my car towed.

Tow truck man is not happy. He has apparently been rained on several times in other municipalities and is not chipper to participate once again in said drenching. He tells me so.

Did I mention Wal Mart's Auto Shop closes in a mere 45 minutes? We are only 5 minutes away, so this does not seem insurmountable. I hope. Tow truck man tells me to get in the truck and loads my car up. He is able to run to the vehicle just as the heavens open, avoiding the rain. I, on the other hand, would not have minded being rained on because I'd been trying to jump my car in 90 degree Missouri humidity. Little Orphan Annie has nothing on the frizz developing in my hair.

It is 1.3 miles to Wal Mart. I know because the internet told me when I searched for the auto body hours. It is a long 1.3 miles. Tow truck man is complaining about everything from his boss to the stupid people on the road who don't turn their lights on when it's raining. In fact, he is so incensed by the latter that he rolls down his window to yell at the people who are lightless. Several times. It seems they can't hear him through the window that is up to block out the rain storm. Finally he gets their attention. "Turn on your lights! It's the law!"

"Morons," he says in a companionable aside to me. I make no sudden movements and make sure my seatbelt is fastened. It's the law.

We arrive at Wal Mart scant minutes later where tow truck man insists he will not be unhooking my car until the deluge has stopped. Since I was not jumping up and down and insisting he suffer the hurricane, I am puzzled by his firmness on the matter. He continues to discuss with himself how abused he's been.

Now we are sitting just feet from the bay doors of salvation inside the auto shop as I cower against the truck door. Tow truck man calls in to report on this little debacle. A lengthy description of how hard it's storming is relayed to his unlucky dispatcher. I do a reverse rain chant mentally and 5 minutes later the rain stops and the sun comes out. I'm free!

I make a break for the auto shop office, tow truck man off-loads my car and drives away without looking back. I am unsurprised and grateful at this turn of events. That. Was awesome.

Tow truck man is so in my next book.

I'll Be Bok

2010-05-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been posting. The good news is it's because I just got a new full-time job (Yeah, financial solvency!) as a technical writer. Ask me about springs for your truck suspension. I dare you.

(We now pause for a moment as the author does something she likes to call "the benefits dance" as she rejoices in her healthcare and 401K opportunities. (It's two steps to the right, two steps to the left and a fist pump if you're interested).

The not-exactly-bad news is I still have the two part-time teaching jobs I was surviving on. So. I'm working to finish up classes by next week, and then I'll be down to two jobs and back to posting. Thanks to all the new followers who've joined in the last several weeks in spite of my abandonment.

As the Arnold would say, "I'll be bok."

The Missouri Writers Guild Conference 2010

2010-04-05T12:34:00.000-07:00

The Missouri Writers Guild Conference will be in Chesterfield, Mo this year on April 16-18, 2010. I'm hoping to attend if I can get the funds together this year. You can download the registration form and even pay by paypal.

Lots of interesting speakers, agents, and editors to check out, including Wash U creative writing teacher, Catherine Rankovic, who writes Mental Health for Writers. I could use some of that, God knows.

The following literary agents will also be at the conference:

Kristin Nelson, Nelson Literary Agency, Denver, Colorado (I love her blog, Pubrants)
Nelson Literary Agency represents fiction for adult, young adult and middle grade books. We work with literary and commercial fiction. For nonfiction, we are only interested in memoir.

We are currently seeking:

Literary (with a commercial bent)

Commercial mainstream

Women's fiction

Chick lit (all types including paranormal, mystery, young adult etc.)

Romance (all types for single title except inspirational)

Science Fiction

Fantasy

Young Adult

Middle Grade

Memoir
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Joanna Stampfel-Volpe, Agent. Nancy Coffey Literary and Media Representation.

Joanna is looking for children's chapter books to upper YA (non-fiction, contemporary, humor, historical and fantasy *fantasy/sci-fi needs to really stand out, unique), adult romance (historical, paranormal, contemporary), fantasy (urban fantasy, steampunk, unique), up-market fiction (women's, commercial, dark, literary, horror, speculative fic), narrative non-fiction (pop culture, environmental, foodie).

She is NOT interested in mysteries, legal thrillers, corporate thrillers, cookbooks, academic nonfiction, epic fantasy for adults, hi-science fiction, poetry, collections/short stories, screenplays

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Suzie Townsend, Junior Agent; Peter Rubie Agency

Suzie Townsend is a Junior Agent and Peter Rubie's assistant and is just starting to take on clients. She will be actively building her list in April 2010 during the conference. She's a former high school English teacher who likes character-driven YA and adult fantasy, science fiction, paranormal and romance. She gravitates toward strong female protagonists, complex plot lines with underlying political, moral, or philosophical issues, and stories which break out of the typical tropes of their genre, like Jacqueline Carey’s Kushiel series. For non-fiction, she is primarily interested in narrative non-fiction and true crime.

Family Circle Fiction Writing Contest 2010

2010-03-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

It's time, once again, for the Family Circle Fiction Writing Contest.

Entries are being accepted now through September 8, 2010. Submit a fiction story, 2500 word maximum.
It must be unpublished, and you cannot have received a prize or award for it. No foul language, porn, or ritual animal sacrifice. (Go figure, it's Family Circle, people).

Check out the previous year's winners for more info on what they are looking for.

I think they own the story if it wins, so be aware.

St. Louis Writers Guild March 2010 Events

2010-03-02T11:44:00.000-08:00

Check out this great schedule of March meetings and workshops from the St. Louis Writers Guild.

Saturday, March 6, 10 a.m. - Noon
"See my Byline: Writing for Newspapers and Magazines" Workshop by Margo Dill

Tuesday, March 9, 7-9 p.m.

Open-Mic Night

Thursday, March 18, 7-8 p.m.
"I'm Pretty Good, So Why Haven't I Been Published," Lecture by Claire Applewhite

Tuesday, March 16, 8-10 p.m.
Loud Mouth Open Mic Night (This one is rated R, folks)

For the Guys Who Write YA

2010-02-11T18:43:00.000-08:00

A heads up from young adult agent Kristin Nelson. Her agency's list is short on male clients who write for young adults, and they're looking for more guys to rep. So run your stuff through your critique group and shine it until it squeaks; then submit for your chance. Don't waste an engraved invitation, people.

Open-Mic Coffeehouse Next Week at St. Charles Community College

2010-02-08T17:46:00.000-08:00

The next open-mic coffee house for St. Charles Community College will be Thursday, February 18, 2010.

One of these days I'm actually going to make it to one of these. And read something. Out loud.

LaChance Publishing Seeking Stories

2010-01-30T12:21:00.000-08:00

LaChance publishing is a non-fiction publisher that publishes books about health topics and fitness. Their "Voices Of" series of anthologies is seeking 500-3,000 word personal essays on the following topics:

Alzheimer’s Disease
Anorexia/Bulimia
Breast Cancer
Depression
Epilepsy

They are also seeking stories about dogs who've made a difference in people's lives. From the website:

MORE Good Dogs Doing Good

"Following on the success of Good Dogs Doing Good, we’re planning a second volume of uplifting, true stories of dogs that have transformed people’s lives.

What we need: True stories of literary merit that show the real, positive and transformative impact a dog has had in your life or the lives of your family or loved ones. For example, has a dog aided you through an illness or given you new insights on yourself or your life? Good Dogs Doing Good itself is the best reference. Your story should be 500-3,000 words.

What we do NOT need: Stories that focus primarily on a dog’s adorable characteristics."

There is no information listed on payment.

Mid Rivers Review Seeking Submissions

2010-01-27T10:32:00.000-08:00

The Mid Rivers Review, the literary magazine of St. Charles Community College, is open for submissions through January 31, 2010. So if you have something you've been meaning to send out, here is a place for it.

Check out their submissions guidelines and excerpts from past journals. The poetry is quiet good. I especially like Heather Treseler's Atomic Chicken Dance. Besides poetry, they also accept short fiction, non-fiction essays, photographs, and art work.

Friday Fun: Bo's Cafe Life

2010-01-22T21:08:00.000-08:00

Check out Bo's Cafe Life by Wayne E. Pollard, a comic strip about aspiring writer and cafe addict, Bo. Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird is one of my favorite writing books, and he's doing a series of strips about it this week. So if you're a fan like I am, check them out.

This one about query letters made me grin.

Middle Grade Books Giveaway

2010-01-19T15:48:00.000-08:00

Margo Dill's blog, Read These Books and Use Them, is giving away three middle grade books by Clara Gillow Clark. Just stop by and leave on comment on her contest blog post by 8 p.m. CST on January 21 for your chance to win.

Book Giveaway at Becky Povich's Blog

2010-01-17T12:03:00.000-08:00

Writer Becky Povich is giving away a book this week on her blog. Just leave a comment about a book you discovered by accident that turned out to be a hidden gem. The contest deadline is Saturday, January 23 at midnight CST.

I'll be trolling it for books to read, especially series. Don't you adore it when you love the first book in a series and then find out it already has about 5 or 6 currently published. A delicious banquet then lies ahead. Ummmm.

New Market - Mom Magazine

2010-01-15T18:45:00.000-08:00

From the editor's of Pregnancy and Hot Mom's Club comes Mom magazine.

Here's some info on the launch of this new magazine that's focused on mothers rather than just on their progeny problems. Mom magazine is here.

Round Up of Cool Blog Posts This Week

2010-01-15T18:30:00.000-08:00

Here are some of this week's neat blog posts from the universe in which I read blogs.

Kristin Nelson's Example Novel Query Letters:
Megan Crewe's Query Letter
Gail Carrigar's Query Letter Part I
Gail Carrigar's Query Letter Part II

Donna's Book Pub - Flash Fiction Contest Info

A Peaceful Sunday Afternoon at a Teaching Life - Put one of those in my virtual shopping bag, please.

Here's hoping we all have a great weekend.

Agent Nathan Bransford's Blog Contest

2010-01-04T18:52:00.000-08:00

Here is great brain exercise for the new year. Enter literary agent Nathan Bransford's The Secret Year Teen Diary Extravaganza. Write a diary entry a la teenage angst (not to exceed 500 words), and you may be a winner. You have until 4:00 PM Pacific Time on Wednesday January 6th.

From the website: The GRAND PRIZE ULTIMATE WINNER of the THE SECRET YEAR Teen Diary Writing Contest Extravaganza will win:

- A signed copy of THE SECRET YEAR (pending winner's proximity to the US of A)
- Their choice of a query critique, partial critique, or 10 minute phone conversation/consultation/dish session
- The pride of knowing OMG you are like the greatest writer for teens ever.

Runners up may get a critique as well.

Chase The Dream Romance Novel/Novella Contest

2010-01-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

The annual Chase The Dream Romance Novella Contest is up and running for the new year. Romance authors Rachelle Chase and Leigh Michaels sponsor the contest and ask for the first 1000 words of your romance novel/novella.

Entries are judged weekly, some receive mini critiques, and many are reviewed by agents. You can see a complete list of rules and the Q&A on their website for more information.

It has lots of great feedback about romance writing, regardless of whether you win or not.

Good luck to everyone.

Food Porn 1: Hot Chocolate

2009-12-16T21:30:00.000-08:00

Photo by Pocheco Creative Commons

I adore food. It has been my friend, my entertainment, my everything. This is why I am fat. But I'm tired of being fat, ergo the liquid diet I am starting on January 5th. Yes, I am a cliche, a New Year dieter. Get over it.

As a result I've been saying goodbye to all my favorite foods before I spend six months sucking sustenance through a straw and never consuming most of them again. I am not pigging out or overeating; I am just saying goodbye to some friends who've gotten me through, while killing me slowly, of course. I usually avoid these foods at all costs. Seeking them out is a strange, but freeing experience.

My food porn is not everyone's. I like a lot of foodie politically incorrect stuff like boxed mac n cheese. But it's my farewell party. Enter at your own risk, but feel free to argue with me in the comments if you just can't stand my version of gustatory gusto.

My friend Lisa calls this fat girl porn. So don't read this if you're on a diet as I wouldn't want to be responsible for the consequences.

Lately I am on a hot chocolate retrospective. It must be made with milk, people, not water. But other than that, I'm not much of a purist about stirring up cocoa on the stove. Instant works perfectly, especally with the addition of lots of real whipped cream. It's like drinking liquid silk. Chocolate flavored.

Perfect hot chocolate sleeps beneath a layer of cream, so every time I tip my unapolgetically Christmassy mug, steaming cocoa lava sneaks out from under the sweet, sweet cream, stinging my tongue while the top layer soothes with coolness. Hot and cold, chocolate and vanilla, darkness and light. It pleasures you with warmth: hands, lips, teeth, tongue. Sex, in a cup.

The smell of the steam is every snow day you ever had as a kid, warm clothes fresh from the dryer, fuzzy socks when your feet are cold.

I drink it halfway down till the foam is gone, and then I go to the fridge for more whipped sin. It's the only way to be sure I get the optimum experience all the way through. I sip it without guilt, without apology, without all the hangups I've had my whole life about any fattening food. Then I look at the chocolate sludge left in the bottom and smile...

Skirt Magazine Seeking Essays for 2010

2009-12-14T20:59:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone is having a great holiday season; here's a little something to think of for the new year.

Skirt has posted their list of essay themes for 2010.
Submit your essay on the first of the month before the one you're aiming for. So if you want it to go in February's "I Heart...." issue, submit by January 1.

Check their contributor's guidelines for details, and then read "The 1 Second Rule" to get a feel for their style.

Harlequin Under Fire For New Self-Publishing and Critique Services

2009-11-20T18:58:00.000-08:00

Harlequin first announced a new ebooks division called Carina Press, and now they've started a self-publishing arm and a critque service that leaves a bit of a bad taste considering all the aspiring authors court them. Read about it and their revoked RWA status at Agent Kristen Nelson's blog.

St. Charles Community College Coffeehouse Open-Mic

2009-11-05T11:12:00.000-08:00

Friday, November 13 is the next Coffeehouse Open-Mic Night at St. Charles Community College.

I am hoping to make this one, so say hello if you come. But all the white chocolate chip macadamia nut cookies are mine! Hands off!

Moving Day!

2009-10-14T14:35:00.001-07:00

Okay, actually that was yesterday. Holy cheerios, it's been a long haul, but I am finally in the process of moving into my new home.

So please excuse me from blogging for the rest of the week, and posts may be sporadic after that. I hope to have at least one a week, but we shall have to see how well my new internet hook up works :) Thanks to everyone who's been rooting me on in the great house search. I'm home.

Samhain Seeks Angels and Demons Romance Stories

2009-10-12T06:03:00.000-07:00

Inkyblots reports that Samhain is looking for a few good Angel/Demon Romance stories. The deadline is November 1st and stories should be 20,000 to 30,000 words.

Alimentum: Literary Magazine About Food

2009-10-09T06:09:00.000-07:00

As we head into the great season of eating, I thought I'd feature a lit mag dedicated to gustatory delights and frights, Alimentum. They publish food-related fiction, creative non-fiction, and poetry. Right now they are hosting a poetry contest.

Deadline: December 1, 2009

Prize: $500 and publication

Entry Fee: $15 (Includes one year subscription)

Submissions: Via Snailmail Only

Alimentum

P.O. Box 210028

Nashville, TN 37221

Here are some menupoems they have online.

I could wax poetic about food, no problem. Now where is that verse I wrote about bread?

Borders Open-Door Poetry Video Series Writing Advice

2009-10-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

If you haven't seen Borders Open Door Poetry Series, check it out. The music combined with poets reading their work is balm for the soul. They are on episode seven, so if you have seen it, but haven't checked back, there are new clips.

In this latest episode, Patricia Smith also gives writing advice about the most valuble tool a writer has in this short clip. Check out her poem "Spinning Till You Get Dizzy." Beware. You may get stuck there for awhile. It's like potato chips; you can't eat just one.

Change in Meeting Site for Coffee and Critique - Rendezvous Cafe

2009-09-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

From Donna:

Hi Everyone,

First, I apologize to everyone who did not get the word last week that we were trying a new place or whose names I left of the e-mail about the meeting change, especially Doyle and Darrell (I'm not sure about your spelling) who showed up at Barnes and Noble.

Tomorrow we are again going to meet at the Rendezvous Cafe on Main Street in O'Fallon from 10 am to noon.

If you plan to read, please bring at least 10 copies--no more than 5 pages, double-spaced.

If I've forgotten to include anyone, please send to them.

Thanks. Hope to see you tomorrow.

Donna

http://donnasbookpub.blogspot.com/

Open-Mic Coffeehouse This Week

2009-09-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

St. Charles Community College is hosting their first open-mic coffeehouse of the Fall semester this Thursday, September 24, 2009. Come by and share your work (3-5 minutes worth) or just sit back and soak up the inspiration. Bonus - free coffee and cookies. This event is free and open to the public.

The SCC Coffeehouse meets from 7-9 p.m. in the auditorium of the Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building.

Don't Forget the Writer Mama Book Giveaway Going on Now

2009-09-17T06:44:00.000-07:00

Christina Katz is still distributing free books over at the Writer Mama blog with her Back-to-School Giveaways. Pop over and leave your comment of at least 50 words on the question of the day, and you're eligible to win.

Today's book is Chapter by Chapter: Discover the Dedication and Focus You Need to Write the Book of Your Dreams by Heather Sellers.

As the McMann would say, you can't win if you don't enter...

Glimmer Train Contest for Unfinished Stories: Best Start Fiction Contest

2009-09-10T16:35:00.000-07:00

If you're like me, finishing a short story can seem an almost insurmountable challenge. The pressure to get it all done perfectly can be paralyzing. But Glimmer Train has a contest for the story stuck among us.

Their Best Start Fiction Contest asks for an excerpt from your story. It doesn't have to be a finished work! Send in the part you have perfected. I have no more excuses. Damn you, Glimmer Train.

This is an outstanding literary magazine, and if you're a short story writer, I heartily recommend you subscribe to see the great work out there today. I'm off to renew mine.

Contest Deadlines are Midnight Pacific Time:
1st Contest Period: September 1 - September 30
Next Contest Period: December 1 - December 31

Length: 1,000 words maximum

Reading Fee: $10 per story

Prize: $50 for the best 50 story excerpts

From the website:
"Best Start is meant to encourage new writers to tackle that story!
This category is different from our others in that the piece should be an engaging and coherent narrative, but it does not need to be a complete story; it needs to be an important part of a story in progress. You could think of it as a writing sample, but we hope you'll feel free to reach a bit. Maybe you're experimenting with a new voice, developing a character, working on clarity in a complex bit of plot or trying to make your dialogue believable and significant. You could be playing with point of view, working to build tension, or looking for a satisfying ending. Or you might be two pages into something brand new.

What we want is to read is an engaging slice of a story you're excited about writing.
All pieces should be original fiction and not have appeared in a print publication.
No fiction for children, please.
It's fine to submit more than one piece."

Start your submission here.

Dirt is Good For You Now Available on Amazon

2009-09-08T21:49:00.000-07:00

Yeah! Dirt is Good For You, the book with my essay in it, is now available for order on Amazon.com.

Here's to "bad parents" everywhere.

Children's Writing Workshop from WOW: Women on Writing

2009-09-07T19:13:00.000-07:00

Here's an online workshop opportunity from WOW Women on Writing taught by my writer pal Margo Dill.

WRITING FOR CHILDREN: Everything You Need to Know About Short Stories, Articles, and Fillers by Margo L. Dill

START DATE: Wednesday, September 30, 2009

DURATION: 7 weeks

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This class will teach the basics of writing for children’s magazines, crafting short stories, nonfiction articles, poetry, and fillers. The student will come away with a short story and cover letter, nonfiction query letter, and a filler or poem. She will also have a list of potential markets, fitting her manuscripts. The instructor will also share an organizational tool for submissions and information on finding other children’s writers and networking.

COST: $200

Not a children's writer? They also have a ton of other online workshops to choose from including fiction and magazine writing classes. Scroll down to see the choices.

Researchers Say Zombies Would be Tough Opponents

2009-09-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

Some of you have read my WIP and know I have a thing for zombie lore, so this story made me grin. Some Canadian researchers have studied how a zombie infestations should be fought. Get out your bats and shotguns ladies and gentlemen, or we are all doomed.

I recommend you prepare here.

The Kind of Year It's Been

2009-09-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

I have of late--but wherefore I know not--lost all my mirth, forgone all
custom of exercises; and indeed it goes so heavily
with my disposition that this goodly frame, the
earth, seems to me a sterile promontory, this most
excellent canopy, the air, look you, this brave
o'erhanging firmament, this majestical roof fretted
with golden fire, why, it appears no other thing to
me than a foul and pestilent congregation of vapours.

Like Hamlet, I am whiner.

Writer Mama Giveaways Start Tuesday

2009-08-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

I am afraid this post will be brief. I've been a bit under the weather with the nasty bug that's been going around.

But I wanted to remind everyone that Christina Katz Annual Back-to-School Book Giveaways are coming. Starting Tuesday, September 1, 2009 she will be giving away a ton of great books, mostly on writing. You can find the list on her blog. I've won before and so can you. Just stop by an leave a comment on each day's post for your chance to win.

Think Outside the Bridge?

2009-08-27T06:11:00.000-07:00

As an aspiring writer, I spend mega amounts of time reading about the right way to create novels, essays, and query letters. What should the exact word count be on that young adult novel? What kind of font should I use to submit my manuscript?

Then someone sent me a picture of this spectacular water bridge, (scroll down a bit to see it) and I laughed with the sheer joy of seeing something so creative. I mean, when you think of building materials for a bridge, water isn't generally numero uno on the list. Sometimes I forget that breaking-the-rules creative part in striving to do things the "correct" way.

Cool bridge.

Win a Restaurant in Essay Contest

2009-08-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Ever dream of owning your own restaurant? Kyle Caballero is offering the public the chance to win his in an essay contest.

For the $200 entry fee you get to explain in 250 words why you should own a restaurant. The winner gets Caballero's Landeck Tavern in Landeck, OH. They will start accepting entries on Monday, August 24, 2009.

The deadline is October 31, 2009 and the contest will be judged by "an independent group of journalists." You can check out more about it on his website winmyrestaurant.com. The winner will be informed on November 25, 2009. Be sure to read the official rules if you're interested.

Christian Romance Publisher Seeking Submissions

2009-08-20T05:14:00.000-07:00

ChristianWriters.com reports that publisher Torn Veil Books is seeking christian romance submissions.

Looks like a new company, so you might want to do some research or wait to see what they first publish. They do clearly outline their royalty structure.

Dirt is Good For You

2009-08-17T05:22:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce my Babble.com essay "Straight to the Bottle" will be available in a collection of parenting essays called Dirt is Good for You starting September 9. It's available for preorder on Amazon.com right now if you want to check it out.

If you ever felt like you screwed up with your kids, this book is a great little guilt-reliever. If you've never felt that way, well this book will horrify your socks off and you shouldn't read it. It's a collection of the popular "Bad Parent" columns Babble.com has published over the last few years.

Do You Really Want to Be in A Critique Group? Really?

2009-08-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

It's critique week! Seeing lots of great posts around the blogosphere on critique groups and here is another over at Warriorwriter's Blog about what how a serious writer conducts themselves at critique vs the accolade-gathering, I'm-not-really-here-to-crit-anyone else writer.

I love the analogy with Ramsey's Kitchen Nightmares show. I haven't seen it, but now I must watch some episodes.

How to Give and Take Critiques

2009-08-10T07:31:00.000-07:00

Sunrise by Tricia Grissom

Good morning.

Check out this excellent guest post from Rick Daley over on Nathan Bransford's blog about the do's and don'ts of critiques. Love the sandwich approach.

How to Write When you Despair of Being a Writer

2009-08-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

Write like you are an adolescent and the words burn you like acid, the fumes rising out of you the only way to stave off anger and despair and the angst of growing into yourself.

Write like you are a woman with breast cancer who survived. So the woman with a lump the next month or the next year or next decade knows that you lived, that you breathe and go on and she will too.

Write like they’ve dropped you in a deep, dark hole and your words are the only light rising out of it, the only breath that might set you free. Write like your countrymen have no voice and yours are the only words floating up to heaven that tell they are tortured and raped and buried in the deep places of the earth. Write so your political leaders will scream and call for your blood, so they label you a traitor and hunt you.

Write like you are a young mother with postpartum depression, and the way your doctors tried to cure you almost drove you mad. Write so they will see it and change how they treat other women.

Write like you are founding a country based on equality, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and you want others to know about it. Write so its citizens will fight for it and cling to its ideals in good times and bad.

Write like the President will see it. Like he will change environmental policy forever because of the words you create, the urgency. Write what you learned about history so he can design his government in the best way.

Write so that you can show how all men are created equal, and women too. Write so they can see you are smart and strong, not less because you are a slave, or a woman, or a jew or a white man who doesn’t get it. Write because it is a weapon and a benediction, because it will end a war and bind up a nation’s wounds.

Write so you can tell us how it was in the camps, in the attic, in the small quiet spaces no one sees but you.

Write so we can see each other for the first time and for the thousandth. Show us we are not alone. Write because the words are so powerful they burst from your skin like ripe fruit. Like yours is the last pen in the world, with the last bit of ink, and generations to come will see your words and do better.

Breastfeeding Essay Contest for Illinois and Missouri Moms

2009-07-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

St. John's Mercy is celebrating World Breastfeeding Week with an essay contest. I'm going to editorialize here and say my experience with breastfeeding is probably not what they are looking for, and women shouldn't feel guilty if breastfeeding didn't work out for them. Oh, and don't forget to read the rules. Essays shouldn't be longer than 300 words and the contest is only open to moms in Illinois and Missouri (see the list of eligible counties in the official rules.

From the website:
How does it work?

Mothers and mothers-to-be submit essays on the topic, "What breastfeeding means to me”.

Can I still play if the contest has already started?
Yes. Submissions will be taken from July 23 to August 7. Finalists will be chosen on August 10. Voting for the finalists is open from August 11 – 21.

Are there prizes?
Yes. The essay writer with the most votes will receive her choice of either a Medela Pump ‘n Style Advanced electric breast pump (value $289) from St. John’s Mercy Pharmacy or a family portrait package (value $200), courtesy of Bella Baby Photography.

First runner up receives either a breast pump or portrait package.

Second runner up receives a one hour lactation consultation (value $45) with a certified St. John’s Mercy lactation consultant.

Third runner up receives a nursing camisole (value $40) courtesy of 9 Months in Style boutique.

Date/Times
All times are in Central Time

Call for Submissions: Superhero Poetry

2009-07-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

Superheros by Falashad

Catrambo reports a superhero anthology is seeking poetry exploring our love of all those who have secret bases and terrific tights. No info on compensation, but it sounds like a fun theme.

Saturday Writers Workshop and Writing Contest 2009

2009-07-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday Writers is holding its annual fall workshop in October 2009 and hosting a writing contest open to workshop attendees. You can register online and pay with paypal, or print your application and send it in.

For Early Bird registration by October 1, 2009
SW members: $50
MWG chapter members and OWL Members: $60
Non-members: $75
Student (with valid I.D.) $50
At Door: $75

Writing Contest
Entry Type: Short story, Essay, Non-fiction article up to 3000 words
Entry fee: $5
Prizes: First Place $100
Second Place $35
Third Place $15
Deadline: October 1, 2009
Rule: Open only to workshop participants, work may have been previously published

Workshop Details
From the website:
"October 24 - "Vision, Voice and Viewpoint." Acclaimed writer Pat Carr will headline our annual workshop.

Pat Carr’s twelve books of fiction include The Women in the Mirror, winner of the Iowa Short Fiction Award, If We Must Die, in the 2003 PEN book awards, and The Death of a Confederate Colonel, published by the University of Arkansas Press. Her more than one hundred short stories have been published in such notable publications as... Southern Review, Yale Review, Best American Short Stories...

ForeWord magazine named Pat Carr's, The Death of a Confederate Colonel, one of the top university press books of 2008, praising Carr's economic narrative as being precise and dramatic.

Regina Williams, publisher and editor of Storyteller Magazine, will also give a presentation about writing for Storyteller. During the workshop, Regina will take pitches from attendees.

Regina Williams, editor of Storyteller Magazine will speak in the morning about how to submit your short story, essay or poem to any magazine or anthology. She’ll tell you what to include in your query, and what to avoid. Regina will also be taking pitches throughout the day.

This will be a hands-on workshop, limited to the first 50 people. A workbook will be provided so bring nothing but a sharpened pencil and your enthusiasm. (Lunch on your own.)"

New Coffee and Critique Schedule - Days Only

2009-07-19T18:53:00.001-07:00

"Clock" by Darren Hester

The Coffee and Critique Writers Group has gone to daytime meetings only. Unfortunately the evening group gave up the ghost. So no more trying to remember whether it's a day meeting or evening meeting this week. All meetings will be during the day from 10:00 a.m. to noon, every Tuesday at Barnes and Noble Bookstore in St. Peters, MO.

I will actually be there Tuesday for the first time in a long while, so I'm looking forward to getting back into critique. Hope to see you there.

If you're interested in trying out the group, check out this blog entry on our basic format.

Harlequin Romance Writing Contest 2009

2009-07-16T07:55:00.000-07:00

Jennifer AILee of the Las Vegas Writing Examiner has info on a romance writing contest for Harlequin. Submit your first chapter (5000 words or less) and a two-page synposis aimed at the Harlequin Presents or Modern Heat lines for a chance to win.

Deadline: November 2, 2009
Entry fee: None
First Prize: A Mills and Boon editor for a year
Two Runners-up: Critique of chapter and editorial consultation

As always, check the fine print before entering.

An Interview With Christina Katz of Get Known Before the Book Deal

2009-07-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

An Interview with Christina Katz

Author of Get Known Before the Book Deal, Use Your Personal Strengths to Grow an Author Platform & Writer Mama, How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids

Christina Katz is the author of Get Known Before the Book Deal, Use Your Personal Strengths to Grow an Author Platform (Writer’s Digest Books). She started her platform “for fun” seven years ago and ended up on “Good Morning America.” Christina teaches e-courses on platform development and writing nonfiction for publication. Her students are published in national magazines and land agents and book deals. Christina has been encouraging reluctant platform builders via her e-zines for five years, has written hundreds of articles for national, regional, and online publications, and is a monthly columnist for the Willamette Writer. A popular speaker at writing conferences, writing programs, libraries, and bookstores, she hosts the Northwest Author Series in Wilsonville, Oregon. She is also the author of Writer Mama, How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids (Writer’s Digest Books).

Q: What is a platform?

CK: Long story short: Your platform communicates your expertise to others, and it works all the time so you don’t have to. Your platform includes your Web presence, any public speaking you do, the classes you teach, the media contacts you’ve established, the articles you’ve published, and any other means you currently have for making your name and your future books known to a viable readership. If others already recognize your expertise on a given topic or for a specific audience or both, then that is your platform.

A platform-strong writer is a writer with influence. Get Known explains in plain English, without buzzwords, how any writer can stand out from the crowd of other writers and get the book deal. The book clears an easy-to-follow path through a formerly confusing forest of ideas so any writer can do the necessary platform development they need to do.

Q: Why is platform development important for writers today?

CK: Learning about and working on a solid platform plan gives writers an edge. Agents and editors have known this for years and have been looking for platform-strong writers and getting them book deals. But from the writer’s point-of-view, there has not been enough information on platform development to help unprepared writers put their best platform forward.

Now suddenly, there is a flood of information on platform, not all necessarily comprehensive, useful or well organized for folks who don’t have a platform yet. Writers can promote themselves in a gradual, grounded manner without feeling like they are selling out. I do it, I teach other writers to do it, I write about it on an ongoing basis, and I encourage all writers to heed the trend. And hopefully, I communicate how in a practical, step-by-step manner that can serve any writer. Because ultimately, before you actively begin promoting yourself, platform development is an inside job requiring concentration, thoughtfulness and a consideration of personal values.

Q: How did you come to write Get Known Before the Book Deal?

CK: I already had a lot of momentum going when I got the deal for a very specific audience. I wrote a column on the topic for the Willamette Writer’s newsletter. Then I started speaking on platform. When I gave my presentation, “Get Known Before the Book Deal,” at the Writer’s Digest/BEA Writer’s Conference in May 2007, Phil Sexton, one of my publisher’s sales guys, saw it and suggested making the concept into a book. Coincidentally, I was trying to come up with an idea for my second book at that time and had just struck out with what I thought were my three best ideas. My editor, Jane Friedman agreed with Phil. That was two votes from people sitting on the pub board. They converted the others with the help of my proposal, and Get Known got the green light.

Q: Why was a book on platform development needed?

CK: Writers often underestimate how important platform is and they often don’t leverage the platform they already have enough. At every conference I presented, I took polls and found that about 50 percent of attendees expressed a desire for a clearer understanding of platform. Some were completely in the dark about it, even though they were attending a conference in hopes of landing a book deal. Since book deals are granted based largely on the impressiveness of a writer’s platform, I noticed a communication gap that needed to be addressed.

My intention was that Get Known would be the book every writer would want to read before attending a writer’s conference, and that it would increase any writer’s chances of landing a book deal whether they pitched in-person or by query. As I wrote the book, I saw online how this type of information was being offered as “insider secrets” at outrageous prices. No one should have to pay thousands of dollars for the information they can find in my book for the price of a paperback! Seriously. You can even ask your library to order it and read it for free.

Q: What is the key idea behind Get Known Before the Book Deal?

CK: Getting known doesn’t take a lot of money, but it does take an in-depth understanding of platform, and then the investment of time, skills and consistent effort to build one. Marketing experience and technological expertise are also not necessary. I show how to avoid the biggest time and money-waster, which is not understanding who your platform is for and why – and hopefully save writers from the confusion and inertia that can result from either information overload or not taking the big picture into account before they jump into writing for traditional publication.

Often writers with weak platforms are over-confident that they can impress agents and editors, while others with decent platforms are under-confident or aren’t stressing their platform-strength enough. Writers have to wear so many hats these days, we can use all the help we can get. Platform development is a muscle, and the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Anyone can do it, but most don’t or won’t because they either don’t understand what is being asked for, or they haven’t overcome their own resistance to the idea. Get Known offers a concrete plan that can help any writer make gains in the rapidly changing and increasingly competitive publishing landscape.

Q: What is the structure of the book and why did you choose it?

CK: Writer Mama was written in small, easy-to-digest chunks so busy new moms could stick it in a diaper bag and read it in the nooks and crannies of the day. Get Known is a bit more prosaic, especially in the early chapters. Most of the platform books already out there were only for authors, not writers or aspiring authors. To make platform evolution easy to comprehend, I had to dial the concepts back to the beginning and talk about what it’s like to try and find your place in the world as an author way before you’ve signed a contract, even before you’ve written a book proposal. No one had done that before in a book for writers. I felt writers needed a context in which to chart a course towards platform development that would not be completely overwhelming.

Introducing platform concepts to writers gives them the key information they need to succeed at pitching an agent either via query or in-person, making this a good book for a writer to read before writing a book proposal. Get Known has three sections: section one is mostly stories and cautionary tales, section two has a lot of to-do lists any writer should be able to use, and section three is how to articulate your platform clearly and concisely so you won’t waste a single minute wondering if you are on the right track.

Q: At the front of Get Known, you discuss four phases of the authoring process. What are they?

CK: First comes the platform development and building phase. Second comes the book proposal development phase (or if you are writing fiction, the book-writing phase). Third, comes the actual writing of the book (for fiction writers this is likely the re-writing of the book). And finally, once the book is published, comes the book marketing and promoting phase.

Many first-time authors scramble once they get a book deal if they haven’t done a thorough job on the platform development phase. Writers who already have a platform have influence with a fan base, and they can leverage that influence no matter what kind of book they write. Writing a book is a lot easier if you are not struggling to find readers for the book at the same time. Again, agents and editors have known this for a long time.
Q: What are some common platform mistakes writers make?

CK: Here are a few:

• They don’t spend time clarifying who they are to others.
• They don’t zoom in specifically on what they offer.
• They confuse socializing with platform development.
• They think about themselves too much and their audience not enough.
• They don’t precisely articulate all they offer so others get it immediately.
• They don’t create a plan before they jump online.
• They undervalue the platform they already have.
• They are overconfident and think they have a solid platform when they have only made a beginning.
• They become exhausted from trying to figure out platform as they go.
• They pay for “insider secrets” instead of trusting their own instincts.
• They blog like crazy for six months and then look at their bank accounts and abandon the process as going nowhere.

I’ll stop there. Suffice it to say that many writers promise publishers they have the ability to make readers seek out and purchase their book. But when it comes time to demonstrate this ability, they can’t deliver.

My mission is to empower writers to be 100 percent responsible for their writing career success and stop looking to others to do their promotional work for them. Get Known shows writers of every stripe how to become the writer who can not only land a book deal, but also influence future readers to plunk down ten or twenty bucks to purchase their book. It all starts with a little preparation and planning. The rest unfolds from there.

Q: Couldn’t any author have written this book? Why you?

CK: I have built a career over the past decade empowering writers. I’ve developed and built my own platform as a writing-for-traditional-publication specialist, and I’ve worked with others as a writing and platform-development instructor. Many of the people I’ve been working with are landing book deals and while the other hundred-or-so writers I work with a year are developing their skills, I notice patterns of behavior—what leads to success, where writers get stuck, and how I can be helpful in these rapidly changing times in the industry.

I’ve witnessed too many writers, who were off to a great start, hopping online and quickly becoming very lost. I started to write about platform in Writer Mama, How To Raise A Writing Career Alongside Your Kids, but I quickly noticed that more details on platform development were desperately needed. My platform is based on helping others. I have a vested interest in seeing the people I work with—and those who read my book—succeed. Writers are my tribe.

Alice Muschany's Opinion Shaper Column "Whiplash, Anyone?"

2009-07-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Coffee and Critiquer Alice Muschany who has just become an opinion shaper columnist for the Suburban Journals. Her first column, "Whiplash, Anyone?" describes her adventures at a theme park with the grandkids. Very funny stuff. So for some Friday Fun, check it out.

Alice is also having a book signing Saturday, July 18 at the Rendevouz Cafe and Wine Bar in O'Fallon, MO. She will be signing A Cup of Comfort for Breast Cancer Survivors which includes her touching essay "Hidden Treasures." So stop in and say hello. The sandwiches are awesome. I recommend "The Frenchman." Mmmmmm.

Esquire Writing Contest

2009-07-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

Mental Health for Writers has a great post on an Esquire writing contest. You can win $2500 for your fiction story. And no entry fee. The deadline is August 1, 2009.

Samhain Publisher Seeks Angel and Demon Stories

2009-07-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

The Shepherds and Angels by Aussiegall

Nice Mommy-Evil Editor reports that romance E publisher Samhain is seeking submissions about Angels and Demons for a Spring anthology.

Length: 20,000-30,000 words plus synopsis and query letter

Deadline: November 1

According to her blog "Submissions and questions can be directed to Angela James at editor@samhainpublishing.com. Please put Angels and Demons Anthology in the subject line."

Lit Agent Seeks Romantic Suspense Stories

2009-07-02T08:44:00.000-07:00

Agent in the Middle reports that fellow lit agent Sandy Lu is looking for romantic suspense stories. Her email is Sandy at lperkinsagency dot com.

Coffee and Critique Schedule for July 2009

2009-06-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

Reflections in a Coffee Cup by Gunjan Karun

Coffee and Critique Schedule for July:

July 7 & 21 - 10 a.m. till noon

July 14 & 28 - 6:30 till 8:30 p.m.

Thanks to Donna for sending out the schedule.

Real Simple Life Lessons Contest

2009-06-26T09:30:00.001-07:00

Creative Writing Contests reports that Real Simple Magazine is sponsoring their Second-

Annual Life Lessons Essay Contest.

Write a 1500 word essay about a moment that made you realize you were a grownup, and submit it by September 7, 2009. The winning entry will be published in the magazine in 2010

The winner also gets round-trip tickets for two to New York City, hotel accommodations for two nights, Broadway play tickets, a lunch with Real Simple editors, and a $3000 prize.

Check out last year's winner, A Witness to Grace, for inspiration.

NPRs Three Minute Fiction Contest

2009-06-24T21:28:00.000-07:00

NPR wants your flash fiction. Submit your 500-600 word story, and it may be read on the air by James Wood, literary critic for The New Yorker and author of the book How Fiction Works. You have until July 18th to submit.

Check the guidelines for more information and to listen to Wood read an example called "For Sixty Cents" by Lydia Davis. And don't forget to read the fine print.

Twitter Book Pitch Contest at BookEnds Literary Agency

2009-06-23T09:32:00.000-07:00

Inkygirl reports that agents Jessica Faust and Kim Lionetti at the BookEnds Literary Agency are having a twitter book pitch contest. Just twitter your pitch (140 characters or less) when they say go. Be sure to read the rules because they will be opening and closing submissions during what they call "Twitch Week," as tweeting during a non submission period won't count. So check out twitter if you aren't already a member.

Two winning authors will get a critique of their synopses and first three chapters. Let the tweeting begin.

"Down Home" by Tricia Sanders at Sasee

2009-06-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

Harvey House, Kansas City Union Station

Woohoo and Congrats to my critique friend Tricia Sanders who has her essay "Down Home" published in print and online for Sasee magazine.

I had the pleasure of reading it in its formative stages, and I love seeing it published. If you're nostalgic for the soft summer days of your childhood, this essay will take you there. Have a Grape Nehi, settle back, and go "Down Home."

Another Freebie From Publishers Lunch T.V.

2009-06-19T09:18:00.000-07:00

More free video of BEA 2009 from Publishers Marketplace. For a short time you can watch the ABA Keynote session from BEA with bookseller Roxanne Coady and authors Sherman Alexie, Jon Meacham, James Patterson, and Lisa Scottoline as they discuss the book biz. Scroll down a bit to see the video

Saturday Writers June Meeting

2009-06-18T16:26:00.000-07:00

From the Saturday Writers Website:

June 27 - "Getting Paid to Tell the Truth" - Local newspaper columnist and non-fiction writer Shelly Schneider and husband-and-wife writers Dianna and Don Graveman will participate in a panel discussion and share what they've learned about writing and publishing non-fiction.

Shelly Schneider spent much of her life trying to find a painless method for removing her foot from her mouth. She’s matured, a little, thanks to her husband, Jim, and their three children: Christopher, Michael and Samantha. She is an award-winning columnist for Community News (www.mycnews.com) and alter ego to Sarcastic Woman. Shelly is a lifetime fan of most sports and an 18-year fan of classic and muscle cars. When she’s not doing that other stuff, she tries to keep track of her daily points allowance, because hey, if you bite it, you write it!

Dianna Graveman is an editor for Liguori Publications. She holds an MFA in writing and a bachelor's degree in education and has taught most grades from Kindergarten through college. Her writing has been published in the U.S. and U.K. and has been recognized by the Missouri Writers Guild, Saturday Writers, Whispering Prairie Press, Women on Writing, ByLine Magazine, Erma Bombeck Writing Competition, and Catholic Press Association of the U.S. and Canada. She is a St. Louis Writers Guild "member of distinction," where she served on the organization's board of directors in 2008-2009.

Don Graveman is a historian and freelance photographer, as well as an account manager for Butler Communications in O’Fallon, Missouri . The recipient of a variety of sales awards, Don’s business travels regularly take him across a multi-state territory, mostly in the American West. Don holds a degree in economics from the University of Missouri in Columbia.

Don and Dianna are co-authors of the recently-released pictorial history, St. Charles: Les Petites Cotes, which was published as part of Arcadia Publishing's national "Images of America" series. They are currently under contract with Arcadia to develop three additional books for release in 2010.

Women Baby Boomers Writing Contest

2009-06-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

From the Press Release

“Boomer Women Speak – How My Life Changed in One Moment” Writing Contest
Towson, MD
Monday, June 15, 2009

The National Association of Baby Boomer Women, http://www.nabbw.com/ and www.BoomerWomenSpeak.com are excited to sponsor a new writing contest, Boomer Women Speak - How my Life Changed in One Moment. Win $100.00 cash and FREE Membership, or Membership Renewal, with the NABBW!

The National Association of Baby Boomer Women (http://www.nabbw.com/) and http://www.boomerwomenspeak.com/, has opened entries to all baby boomer women for a new writing contest; "Boomer Women Speak – How my Life Changed in One Moment" This contest offers women an opportunity to write their personal stories about entering midlife and beyond.

According to Sue William Silverman, author of "Fearless Confessions: A Writer's Guide to Memoir," everyone has a story to tell. The NABBW and Silverman want to hear yours. Dotsie Bregel, founder and CEO of the National Association of Baby Boomer Women, says, "We want to encourage baby boomer women everywhere to enter this contest and share their own life-changing moment. As baby boomers, most of us have reached a cornerstone in our lives where we spend time reflecting on the past. In retrospect, we realize there were moments or events that shaped us, that helped mold our mind, body, and spirit. These life-altering moments made us the women we are today. That's one reason we knew this contest will speak to all baby boomer women.

Bregel continues with, "Everyone's path in life is so different; and by sharing our stories, big or small, we bind ourselves to one another, and continue to empower the women who read them. We want you to give us, in 500 words or less, your moment in time; your turning point, that new beginning, or even an ending. Fill it with all of the emotions at this crucial junction of your life. It's your turn ladies to write a short scene depicting where the event happen; who you were with; and how it impacted the larger story of your life"

"By entering Boomer Women Speak - How my Life Changed in One Moment, we believe our mission of educating, empowering, and enlightening baby boomer women will be echoed and held strong. We've already discovered what an exciting time this is in our lives; now here's the opportunity to write about it; to expand upon the past and how it shaped your future--that one moment--and you were changed forever. That's what we want to read about"

Bregel expects the NABBW contest to stir up a wide range of emotions and anticipates receiving entries from baby boomer women from one end of the globe to the other. All boomer-age (born 1946-1964) women are invited to submit their essay to Dotsie Bregel at contest@nabbw.com, with Fearless Confessions in the subject line. Entries must be 500 words or less, emailed in the body of the email, (no attachments, please) by the August 31st, 2009 deadline. Contestants should include the author's name, email address, and short bio (75 words or less).

There will be three winners chosen for the Boomer Women Speak – How my Life Changed in One Moment contest. The Grand Prize winner will receive $100 and a free membership (or free renewal of their membership) in the National Association of Baby Boomer Women. Second place will receive an autographed copy of "Fearless Confessions," plus a copy of Sue William Silverman's two memoirs. And the third place winner will be awarded an autographed copy of "Fearless Confessions"

Additionally, the winning story will appear in the "Our Voices" section at BoomerWomenSpeak, an affiliate Web site of the NABBW. To learn more about this contest and to read the full guidelines, visit the NABBW contest page. About Dotsie Bregel, founder of the National Association of Baby Boomer Women Since launching NABBW in 2005, and Boomer Women Speak in 2002, Dotsie Bregel has become the expert journalists seek on Boomer women's issues.

Bregel has been mentioned in Time magazine, LA Times, AARP Bulletin and dozens of newspapers, plus radio and television shows including CBS The Early Show with Dave Price.

About the National Association of Baby Boomer Women

The NABBW offers a hearty membership package, an electronic Resource Library devoted to empowering and educating women worldwide, pertinent teleseminars, a warm panel of experts, and many other benefits. Join the NABBW now and be embraced by the only association devoted to addressing topics concerning 38 million of the healthiest, wealthiest and best educated women to ever hit midlife. The NABBW empowers Boomer women to explore their passions and live life to the fullest. Visit their sister site, BoomerWomenSpeak.com where you'll find wise, warm, and witty women engaged in over 60 forums 24/7.

Nathan Bransford's Writing Advice Database

2009-06-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Literary Agent Nathan Bransford has an awesome blog entry complete with links to his past writing advice for every stage in the writing process, from "Before You Start" to "Staying Sane During the Writing/Publishing Process." Check out his Writing Advice Database.

Publishers Lunch TV

2009-06-11T13:19:00.000-07:00

Publisher's Lunch is offering a free viewing of the CEO Roundtable at BEA 09 featuring Tina Brown, Brian Murray, Carolyn Reidy, John Sargent, David Steinberger. They discuss the latest in the publishing biz, including ebooks. It's free today only if you want to check it out.

Critique Group Contest

2009-06-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Writer Lynnette Labelle over at Chitterbox Chit Chat is hosting a writing contest for romance authors who are seeking a critique group.

The prize is membership in their online critique group, and three writers will be chosen based on the writing sample and a questionnaire that ensures compatibility with the group members.

You must commit to critique at least one chapter per week if you join. Tomorrow is the last day to submit entries, so check it out.

Quotes: Writers on Writing

2009-06-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

Here's a little something to reflect upon on, writer friends.

Tennessee Williams Writing Contest

2009-06-03T11:45:00.001-07:00

The Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival Fiction Writing Contest is now open for submissions.

Entry fee: $20
Length: Short fiction up to 7,000 words
Prize: $1,500 and VIP Festival Pass, publication, and airfare/accomodations for the festival
Deadline: November 15, 2009

Check the website for more details.

Romance Novel Sales Continue to Rise

2009-05-30T06:59:00.000-07:00

Check out this article on Msn.com about why romance novels are good therapy in today's economy. A bright spot indeed. (The lady they interview is from Festus, MO).

St. Charles County Book Fair Starts Tomorrow

2009-05-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

My writer friend Tricia Sanders reminded me that tomorrow starts the book bonanza known as the St. Charles Friends of the Library Book Fair. It costs $5 for admission on Friday, but Saturday and Sunday are free. Bring a bag to fill on Sunday because books are $5 per bag the last day.

Non-profits and schools can get free books the last day: ***Non Profits and Schools are invited to come in at 2:00pm on Sunday and get as many books that they can handle for FREE!! Contact Lynn Reichmuth at 636-441-2300 ext 1596 for more information

Event Sponsor:
St. Charles County Library District

When:
Fri, May 29, 2009
Sat, May 30, 2009
Sun, May 31, 2009

Mark your calendars for the 2009 Friends Book Fair! It will be held at the St. Charles Convention Center - One Convention Center Plaza in St. Charles. Over 250,000 books, records, sets & magazines are available for purchase. Admission for Friday only - $5 or get in Free with a Friends membership (paid by May 27) - Children under 12 free. For more information, call (636) 441-2300.

(Most items offered at these prices.)
Paperbacks-50 cents -- Oversize paperbacks-$1.00 -- Hardbacks-$2.00 -- Magazines-10 cents
Children's & Teen books -- 25 cents
250,000+ books, records, sets & magazines including sets of National Geographic to sell!
Customers may pay using Mastercard or Visa (minumum charge amount $10.00), checks or cash.

Saturday Writers Meeting May 30

2009-05-27T21:37:00.001-07:00

The deadline for submissions has passed, but I learn a tremendous amount by listening to the critques and hearing the work read aloud.

From the Website:

When: May 30, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Saturday Writers presents, "The First 300." Ladies and Gentlemen, start up your writing engines!!!!!

According to most editors and agents, a writer has to capture their attention right away-in the first paragraph or the first page-but for sure by the first 300 words. Members of Saturday Writers submitted their fiction, non-fiction, or essays, up to 300 words (double spaced) which will be read during the May meeting and critiqued by a panel of editors. And, you don't have to submit anything to attend the meeting. Everyone is welcome to attend!!!

Where: St. Peters Community and Arts Center
1035 St. Peters Howell Road (just off of Mid Rivers Mall Drive), St. Peters, MO. Phone 636-397-6903 for directions.

Coffee and Critique June Schedule 2009

2009-05-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

From Donna: Here's the schedule for this month for Coffee and Critique:

Jun 2 and 16 - 10:00 a.m. till noon
June 9 and 23 - 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m.

June 30 - Fifth Tuesday--we will talk about if we will meet

Ebook Readers and The Evolution of Ebooks

2009-05-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

Check out the great video over at AbsoluteWrite that's a panel discussion on ebooks from O'Reilly 2009 Tools of Change for Publishing featuring Harlequin ebook rep Malle Vallik, Samhain editor Angela James, Booksquare's Kassia Krozser and Smart Bitch Sarah Wendell.

It discusses ebook devices, ebook consumers (ladies, that's us), and what they want from an ebook in the future. They whip out more ebook electronics than a 21st century O.K. Corral, so if you've kicked around buying an ebook reader, this is a nice way to get opinions from some avid readers on which ones work best.

Industry Trends Blog from Writer's Digest Editor Jane Friedman

2009-05-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

There Are No Rules, Jane Friedman's blog, has a nice wrap up of the Penwriters Conference that includes a section on industry trends in fiction (scroll down to see it). Agents are saying "Yes" to romance, dark stories, and the inspirational. "Noish" to mysteries and young adult.

She also has an insightful article on "Writers and Recession" that discusses not only how the economic downturn is affecting writers, but how the publishing industry itself is changing - and there's no going back to the days of print only, newspapers and hard copies. Good scouts should get prepared, boys and girls.

Is Your Blog Kindle-Worthy? Amazon Thinks So.

2009-05-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

Publisher's Weekly is reporting that now anyone can sell their blog through Amazon's Kindle just by signing up. Amazon will keep 70% of any revenue from subscribers, and the rest goes to you. It says most blog subscriptions run about $.99 to $1.99 per month, with the price determined by Amazon. So your blog is sent wirelessly to the Kindle of anyone who subscribes.

Read the Washington Post article for more details.

The article also mentions a Instapaper, which let's you save web pages for later reading. It looks kinda cool, so you may want to check it out if you're like me and always forget where you left that great article you were meaning to read, or the piece of research you want to examine in-depth later.

Sorry about the no pictures. My computer doesn't seem to be recognizing jpeg files at the moment. Sigh. *Shakes clueless nontechy head*

Upcoming Contest Deadlines From Poets and Writers

2009-05-12T23:21:00.000-07:00

Check out some of the upcoming writing contest deadlines at Poets and Writers website, including Boulevard and River Styx's poetry contests.

Friday Fun: Editing Letter

2009-05-08T05:15:00.000-07:00

Found this link on Editorial Ass's blog. Thanks, moonrat. It's a nice flashback to the 80s along with writer humor.

Workshop: Ozark Writers and Illustrators for Children

2009-05-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

Ozark Writers and Illustrators for Children is hosting a one day workshop on July 11, 2009. You can print the brochure and send it in to register. It's only $40 if you sign up early, and it includes lunch.

The workshop will be held at the Lebanon-Laclede County library in Lebanon, MO. Speakers include J.B. Cheaney, Vicki Grove, and Louise Jackson.

Samhain Publishing Seeks Space Opera Romance Novellas

2009-05-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

The Fifth Element

The Galaxy Express reports that Samhain Publishing is calling for Space Opera Romance stories to be published in 2010.

The novellas should be 25,000 - 30,000 words and submissions are due by August 10, 2009.

I say its time to pop in The Fifth Element, Serenity, and Star Wars and then let them stew for 24 hours until a story develops. Yeah. It could be one messed up Space Opera by then. Fun!

New Literary Journals at Poets and Writers Magazine

2009-04-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

Poets and Writers has added 16 new literary magazines to their listings.

You can check out their literary magazine database to find the right publication for your poem, essay, or short story.

The database lists the journals genres, submission periods, and how they accept submissions, so go find your baby a home today.

Two Writing Contests: Flash Fiction and Mark Twain

2009-04-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

Donna over at Donnas Book Pub (forgive my apostrophe drought, my son hooked a gaming keyboard into my computer and it wont. type. apostrophes. Arrrrg) has two great contest announcements, one for WOWs Flash Fiction and another for a Mark Twain homage.

They both have May 31st deadlines.

Query On.

Summer Non-Fiction Class at UMSL

2009-04-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

From Catherine Rankovic:

Dear Writers:
I will be teaching the graduate Creative Nonfiction Workshop at UMSL this summer. For Metro-area residents the cost is just under $900. You do not have to be in their MFA program to enroll, simply write well enough to take a graduate course (3 credits) and be a good critic. Provide me with a writing sample first; then you receive a consent number to register online at http://www.umsl.edu/.

Mary Troy, UMSL's Creative Writing Program director, wrote me:

"In fact, if you know of people who may want to work with you but who are not students here, please encourage them to sign up this way, to get a consent number from me. I have some to give out still, though it is way too early to tell if the class will fill or not. It seems to be moving fine, with already 7 in it."

The course number is English 5140. It meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings, June 15-August 8, 6:00-8:30 p.m. It will have 2 textbooks. Thank you very much. Please pass the word and my email address, clrankov@juno.com, to anyone you think may be interested.

Catherine Rankovic

Redbook Silver Lining Writing Contest

2009-04-17T06:03:00.000-07:00

Heard about this from Patsy Bell. Thanks for the heads up, Patsy.

Redbook is sponsoring a Silver Lining Writing Contest in conjunction with the Cup of Comfort Series. You could win $1000 and publication in Redbook for your best story about overcoming an obstacle or hardship. Essays should be between 1000-2000 words. Submit them to the Cup of Comfort website by May 15, 2009 for your chance to win. And, as always, be sure to read the fine print.

I Am Dead Yet

2009-04-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

This blog has nothing on it today because I'm crabby and sick until further notice. And stop reading so loud. And no, there is no picture.

April Coffee and Critique Meeting Schedule

2009-04-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

April

7th & 21st - 10 till noon

14th & 28th - 6:30 till 8:30