Christy's Creative Space

Inspired by books: Her own personal Narnia

2011-12-16T13:19:00.009-05:00

My 10 year old has been reading this book called "Mandy" by Julie Andrews Edwards. (Yes, that's the same as the Mary Poppins actress) It's about an orphan that finds an abandoned cottage and works to fix it up as her own little get-away haven.

We are lucky to have my parents nearby. They only live about 15 minutes away so the kids get to see them often. They have this fabulous yard, the kind that beggs for kids to be as they really are; adventurers, warriors, race car drivers, wizards and creators.

They have this plant in the yard (as seen in the picture) I don't know what it's called but they look like cat tails on steroids.

Since my daughter has been reading MANDY she has been taking care of this patch of vegetation and making it her own "Narnia" as she calls it.

She has woven mats out of blades from the plant.

she has even made some chairs (held together by tape) Don't they look like something straight out of Fairytopia?

The best part is that there is an open circle inside the plant. This is what she has REALLY been working on. It's her own fort. The place where she will put her chairs, mats and other decorations. She has spent hours on it already and she's still going strong.

But this is just the beginning! There are so many great books she has yet to discover. I can't wait to see what she'll come up with next.

It takes me back to my childhood. I loved making my own forts, hiding places and other worldly places.

What about you? Did you have your own world or . . . how were you inspired by books as a kid (or heck, even now?)

Encouragement for Writers: An Agent Success Story With Kathleen M. Reilly

2011-12-08T13:13:00.006-05:00

I'm happy to introduce yet another member of my critique group, Kathleen M. Reilly. who recently signed with Marcy Posner of Folio Literary Magangement.

Kate has graciously answered some of my questions about her journey to finding an agent.

But first, a little about Kate. She's one of the most dedicated, focused and hard-working writers that I know.

Kate's features appear in publications such as:

Parents
Better Homes & Gardens
Family Circle
American Baby
FamilyFun
Woman's Day
Ladies' Home Journal

She's also the author of eight books (two of which are those award-winners).

Prior to launching a successful freelance career, Kate edited telecommunications and veterinary medical newsletters, website copy, and technical documentation.

Kate develops, writes, edits, and designs a wide range of business materials, both in print and online, including brochures, newsletters, press releases, corporate identity pieces, marketing "give-aways," and website copy.

And now, (drum roll please) Kate's interview about how she found her agent:

What type of writing do you do and how long have you been writing?

I’m a freelancer, so most of my work is writing for magazines. I’ve been doing that for about nine years. A few years ago, I started writing non-fiction children’s books for Nomad Press, an indy publisher in Vermont. I’ve done about seven books for them now.

How long had you worked on the manuscript that landed your agent? How many revisions?
when did you seek an agent for the first time, and how/why did you know it was time to look for one?

At the beginning of 2011, I decided it was well past time for me to do what I’ve always wanted – write fiction! So, in January, I began tossing plot ideas around in my head. I started writing in earnest in February. I finished the first draft a couple months later (I write fast!), and I must have done about three major revisions. I started looking for an agent in August. I knew I was ready because I felt like I’d taken the revisions as far as I could go. I was ready for some input from someone who does fiction day in and day out – someone who really knew this side of the business well.

How did you find your agent and then come to the conclusion that she was “the one?”

I did a lot of research to find an agent. I ran searches on different “find an agent!” sites, putting in my key points – I needed someone who did middle grade, who was interested in “boy books,” and who took submissions via email! When this agent responded to my query, she was very polite, professional, and seemed genuinely excited about my manuscript. And when I found out we’d gone to the same university, I figured it was fate!

What encouragement given to you did you hold onto while you were searching for an agent?

As a freelancer, I’m used to rejection. It’s just part of the business. Nothing personal at all – there are so many variables that come into play. Do they already have something similar in the works? Does that particular editor just not like that particular spin on the idea? Is she just having a plain old bad day? Maybe they already ran a story too close to that topic. In any case, I didn’t take rejection hard when an agent said, “No, not for me.” I liked my story; I have a fantastic writing group who supported me; and I knew I’d eventually place it somewhere. Sometimes you just gotta kiss a lot of frogs!

What encouragement or advice do you have to give to those who are searching for an agent?

I regularly go mountain biking with my tween- and teen-aged sons. Trust me, you’ve gotta work hard to keep up with these guys! But it turns out, it’s actually pretty fun to really push myself. Same goes for the whole writing process and looking for an agent. Just like in mountain biking, you’ve got to expect some setbacks – and possibly even some wipeouts! Yeah, those pitfalls are more emotional than physical in the writing biz, but you’ve still got to pick yourself back up and keep pushing. Old advice, but it’s really the truth!

Thank you, Kate, for sharing your success story with us. You are an inspiration! All of a sudden I have the urge to go mountain biking. . . . .

"How to Milk a Dinocow" Book launch!

2011-11-23T12:50:00.006-05:00

Do you remember when we sent Critter around the world last year? Critter met all kinds of writers and illustrators and then was auctioned off for St. Jude.

Critter's mega-talented creator, Ian Sands, has his first humorous middle grade book coming out on December 10th.

If you're in the state of NC . . . .“How to Milk a DinoCow” will be released December 10, 2011. The publisher and the Halle Cultural Arts Center, located on Salem Street in downtown Apex, NC will be co-hosting the launch event which is open to the public. The event will take place from 3-5PM. But you can pre-order it here

Don't forget to become a fan on Facebook too!

Go on! Reserve your copy. You know you want to!

NaNo, words flow, go, go, go! How do you get the words out?

2011-11-09T09:38:00.005-05:00

click here to get your own Writertopia word counter!

I can't believe NaNo is going so well for me this year. I have three youngin's and a busy life. I didn't even know if I should tackle NaNo this year; 1) because my past NaNo stories have turned out to be junk 2) I didn't know if I had the time. I hate to start something and not finish it.

But then I decided to do it; 1) because a friend talked me into it 2) I had an idea to write the back story and character sketches of my book instead of the book itself 3) we all can find time to do the things that we WANT to do. I knew I could find the time if I really tried.

I encourage anyone who is thinking about NaNo to do NaNo on in the way that will best suite you and your goals. Who cares if you don't make it to the full 50K? Who cares if you are writing a book about your book? Who cares if you're just brainstorming nothing in particular? The point is setting your goals and working towards them.

Writing a book about back story and characters seems "weird" but it has been really helpful.
1) I'm gaining a better understanding of what motivates my characters and how they effect each other.
2) I'm seeing my characters in a more well-rounded way. They are becoming real to me and I think that will help my story when I start to really write about them.
3) I'm able to connect the dots with some questions I had in my mind but didn't know how to work them out.
4) My inner editor is completely shut off. None of this is meant to be cut and pasted into my novel, so I can type freely with little to no road blocks.

When I do find that my creative process is slowing down, I know it's time to stop. One of the best ways I find to let the words flow is to visualize the scenes or thoughts that I want to write about, like I'm watching a movie in my head, before I start to type. The clearer movie-like picture I have in my head, the easier it is to let the words pour out.

OK, I'm going to go now and try to plunk out another couple thousand words. That is, if I can keep the cat off my key-board. Shooooo Sammy, shoooooo!

What about you? What helps you get the words out when you're writing?

Encouragement for Writers: An Agent Success Story with Jenny Murray

2011-11-07T08:57:00.004-05:00

Visit Jenny Murray at www.jennymurray.net

I'm especially happy to bring you this week's ENCOURAGEMENT FOR WRITERS section because today's guest is one of my critique group buddies. Jenny Murray is a dedicated and talented writer that hasn't let our economy discourage her from writing a great book. Jenny recently signed with Danielle Chiotti at Upstart Crowe Agency. Her dedication to the craft of writing inspires me. Now you can read on and get inspired too!

What type of writing do you do and how long have you been writing?

I write novels for middle grade readers. I have been writing all of my life, though it’s only been since 2003 that I’ve been seriously working toward a goal of publication.

How long had you worked on the manuscript that landed your agent?

I started this project almost four years ago, and I worked on it exclusively for about a year and a half. Then I thought it was ready to go out into the world, and I started the submission process while beginning another project. It wasn’t ready, though. After receiving mixed feedback, I pulled it back out for another full revision. This latest revision took about six months.

How many revisions?

Nineteen and counting!

When did you seek an agent for the first time, and how/why did you know it was time to look for one?

I have to admit that I submitted this book too early. It wasn’t ready. I think I thought it was done because I wasn’t sure what else to do with it or where to get more feedback. Then I received a few personal rejections. They were gifts because they helped me see the hard work that still needed to be done. They gave me direction.

How did you find your agent and then come to the conclusion that she was the one?

My final path to representation did not follow the normal querying process. The first time I queried agents, I received several comments about the characters and setting of the novel. They both needed to be strengthened. I listened and took the comments to heart, working for a solid six months to bring the novel to its current form. I felt good about my work, but didn’t want to make the mistake of querying agents too soon again.

Luckily, the Carolinas SCBWI conference was just around the corner. I signed up for a critique, hoping to get some positive feedback, but also hoping to know if my changes were working. I was assigned an editor from a major publishing house for my individual critique session. She was wonderful, saying that she loved the pages and that I could say she was interested in the project in my queries to agents.

I talked with a few authors at the conference. They were tremendously helpful, and when I returned home I began my query process. While I was researching agents, Danielle Chiotti of Upstart Crow Literary contacted me. One of her clients, whom I had met at the conference, told her about my project. Danielle queried me asking to see my manuscript. Completely flattered, I sent it to her.

Within two weeks, I had two offers for representation. I spoke with both agents on the phone, and I was immediately drawn to Danielle’s professionalism and enthusiasm. I finalized my contract with Danielle one week later.

What encouragement given to you did you hold on to while you were searching for an agent?

I remember reading that even in this tough economic climate, there is, and always will be, a place for great books. This comment stuck with me as I worked on my book. I listened to feedback even when I wanted to ignore it and say I was done. It was a struggle and sometimes discouraging, but I always knew that I had to work to write the very best book I can write.

What encouragement or advice would you give others who are searching for an agent?

Keep writing. Revise, revise, and revise and then revise again. It’ll happen.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’m still revising! I’m working on Danielle’s editorial letter (seven, single spaced pages) and I am thrilled because her comments are spot-on and making me ask hard questions about my book. I still struggle with impatience, but I know, in the end, my book will be better for the work. And that’s the goal. I want to write the best book I can because what we do is too important to rush. We’re building the reading lives of young people. They deserve the very best books we can write.

Thank you for joining us and sharing your journey to representation, Jenny.

Making NaNo progress.

2011-11-04T11:38:00.001-04:00

I'm off to a good start. I've averaged a little over 2000 words per day. I'm not going to be able to do any typing on Saturday because I'll be out doing family stuff, but I'll be thinking and visualizing what I want to write next. That's one key that I've found to being able to type fast and furiously. If I have a movie-like idea in my head of what I'm going to type next, the words just flow.

I'm having tons of fun with this. I'm unlocking a lot of nuggets in my head and finding out a lot about my story that is falling into place. YaY!

More next week. I have to get ready for the weekend.

NaNo WriMo by Numbers

2011-10-31T12:01:00.004-04:00

NaNo is a pretty large monster of a word count to tackle. 50,o00 words in one month. I'm not even writing my actual book. I'm writing a book about my book. The back story and character sketches . . . if I get that far.

It helps me to break down those mongo-freaky numbers into smaller parts. Let's see . . .

There's 5 weeks in November. That = 10,000 words per week.

week 1 has 5 days = 2,000 words per day
Week 2-4 has 7 days =1428.57 words per day
Week 5 has 4 days = 2,500 words per day

OK. I think I can manage the daily word averages. All that will take is discipline to make useless time into writing time. (buh-bye facebook games)

This is what I need, though. I need to get back into a regular writing schedule. Dump my brain-numbing down time and make it productive again.

Let's see . . . what other numbers will this month of NaNo Wrimo hold?

at least . . . .
30+ cups of coffee
29 time of scolding myself for checking facebook
8 pens
7 pencils
26 sticky notes that I misplace
25 late nights
24 more times of scolding myself for checking facebook
3 scones
22 cups of tea
21 new songs on the i pod
10 crumpled pieces of loose leaf paper
50 times pushing my cat off my keyboard

and a partridge in a pear tree. . . . . (squawking at me for checking facebook)

But it's not really about the numbers . . . is it? It's about setting a goal and reaching it. It's about getting your backside nice and comfy in your seat of choice for the long-haul.

Even if you're not doing NaNo this month, what kind of goals do you have and how do you set yourself up to meet them?

Win an ARC

2011-10-19T11:30:00.002-04:00

Want to win an ARC of a book, MY VERY UNFAIRYTALE LIFE, that sounds like loads of fun and has an aWesomE cover as well? Of course you do!

go to Anna Staniszewski's blog to enter! Click here!

I'm gonna do it!

2011-10-17T11:04:00.003-04:00

OK. I'm in. At first I didn't think I'd do NaNo again. I've done it a couple of times and the novels I wrote ended up being junk. I did learn a lot, but it's a big goal in a short amount of time. I didn't know if it would be worth it.

I just signed up to take the Full Novel Course through the Institute of Children's Literature. I'm just getting started and I wasn't sure if I should put any more work on myself than I already have. I decided to approach this differently, though. This year, instead of writing my actual novel, I'm going to brainstorm the back story of my current book. That way I'm not working against the course that I'm taking. Instead, I'm supplementing it.

Plus, I need to get back into a regular writing routine. My discipline has gone astray over the past couple of years. It's time that I get serious again and get my butt back in the chair. NaNo is a great way to do it.

So, who else is in? I'm CEvers on the Nano web-site if you want to add me as a buddy. :0)

2011-09-19T13:19:00.002-04:00

Ahoy maties!

In honor of ye ol' Talk LIke a Pirate day, ye best be sheddin' yer land lubbin name and get yerself a name fittin' for a pirate at Ye ol' Pirate Name genera tor. ARRRRRRRRR!

My new pirate name be Burnin' Juliana Hawkins. What be yers?

click here or click ye above to go to the name generator.

Stairs to Nowhere

2011-08-31T16:19:00.004-04:00

I was recently walking in downtown Raleigh when I came across these stairs that lead to nowhere. I had to take a picture. I love the way a sight like this starts my creative story wheels a-turning. Let me count the possible ways to find a story behind this image . . .

Why was the entrance covered up? What are they hiding? Is it a porthole to another world? Maybe there's a secret code or trigger that opens up an unseen door. . . ..

Or maybe this image is a metaphor for something in your life. I've got to admit, right now I feel like those stairs leading to a brick wall represents my writing efforts. (not to mention other areas in my life.)

What about you? What thoughts or stories are brought to mind by this picture? I'm curious.

Play a game with your Characters

2011-04-20T10:47:00.003-04:00

The Best Day/ Worst Day Game

Character development doesn't have to be dull. Try playing a game with your characters. In John Green's "Finding Alaska" his characters play a game of "Best Day, Worst Day" where each character told the others their best and worst day. I found this interesting because the answers each character gave told the reader the experiences that made them tick, gave them their drive and direction in life.

So . . . I thought, that may be a good character development game. Then I started to wonder what other games might be fun to play while getting to know our characters. hmmmmmmmm

Trying someting new: Developing character voice

2011-04-11T10:21:00.003-04:00

Since I started this adventure in writing I learned pretty zippity-quick that in order to make it in this business, you have to have a strong voice. It took a while for me to get a grasp on "what" voice is. It's not the easiest to explain. However, KNOWING what voice is doesn't mean that it comes easy. I've finished my first Novel, UNSEEN, but I tried so hard to make sure all the words were perfect that I think the voice came across unnatural. I still love the story and will most likely go back to it one day and try to fix it. For now, I'm starting a new book. I'm aiming for a natural yet unique voice. So . . . before I begin the book, I've decided to get into my main characters head. I am starting a journal as if my main character were writing it. I'm hoping this will give me a good idea of who my character is, how she thinks, talks and even how the story will unfold. Usually I need an outline to write a book. But with this journal thing . . . I can just let the story take on a life of it's own. I'm hoping this journal will give me the structure for my outline. Who knows. It's worth a shot to try. That's part of the fun of writing . . . right?

So . . . what do you do to get to know your characters and develop their unique voice? I'd love to hear more ideas!

Part 2, The Psychology of Change: Developing Authentic Characters

2011-03-31T18:28:00.007-04:00

I'm tickled pink w/ purple polka dots over the responses of Part 1 of the Psychology of Change. I hope that this 2nd segment will be just as useful.

Part 1 dealt with how your character experiences a sense of loss in their life when change occurs and how your character responds to it. Even good change produces stress and a sense of loss. (ie: a new baby means a sense of identity loss, loss of territory or turf, loss of sleep etc.) Click here to read to Part 1 (Or you can just scroll down. Whatever. Take your pick.)

Part 2 deals with outside influences and how they help or hurt your character as he/she deals with the change and sense of loss in their life.

Part 2
The Transition Phase

When a person makes a transition from an old way of life to something new there are outside influences as well as inner battles that shape how they respond to stress and move on.

Things that help a person move through the Transition Phase of "change"
1) Ceremony: Studies show that people tend to get over the stress of "change' in their life if they go through a ceremony, ritual or right of passage of some sort. ie: funerals help a person transition from dealing with a death and moving on with life. Weddings help people transition from a single life to married life. Journaling is a ritual that helps people sort out feelings. Burning pictures, throwing out items, writing letters (you know . . .that sort of stuff) are other types of rituals, ceremonies or rights of passage.

2) Venting: Transition is the time when a person just needs to vent, not be fixed. They needs someone to listen rather than someone to solve their problems.

3) Allowed to act out of character: This is a period of time where your character my act in ways that they normally wouldn't act.

4) People in transition need . . .
A. A positive reminder of why they are going through this change
B. A reminder of the big picture; what is at the end of the road of this transition
C. A plan of action
D. A role to play in their transition. They need to feel like they have some control by taking part in the events that will lead to their end fate.
E. Care
F. Concern

Now ask yourself . . .

1) What positive and healthy things, listed above, does your character do to help them through their transition? What areas are they lacking? (ie: Do they take part in a ceremony, ritual or right of passage that will help them move on, or do they try to ignore their feelings and end up feeling stuck? )

2) How do other characters help or hurt your character in their transition? Who gives your character the support they need? Who is a negative influence that makes it difficult for your character to make progress? Remember, even friends and loved ones can be a negative influence in your characters progress. It doesn't have to be the antagonist who creates all the tension. Even well-meaning people can flub-it-up for your character.

3) How do relationships change for your character during this time of transition? Does he/she gain or lose friends because of the change itself or your characters reaction to change? Does your character start to see a side of people that he/she has never noticed before?

4) What does your character realize about him/her self that they never realized about themselves before? Do they like themselves better or worse? How do they view themselves differently than before? (ie: do they find out that they have a deep inner strength than the realized or do they end up finding out that they are really more of a whiner when things get tough?)

5) Does your character feel like they have any control over their situation or feels like everything is out of control? Does he/she try to take control or does he/she feel hopeless?

Part 3 of the Psychology of Change is "Conclusion" This is simply where your character has found resolution in their circumstances and the "change" in their life is now the norm. They have found peace and acceptance of their circumstances. The end of the story is a new beginning for your character.

This is the Psychology of Change in a nutshell. I hope it helps you in your character development! I'd love to hear if it's useful.

The psychology of change: Developing authentic characters

2011-03-29T14:01:00.007-04:00

Last month I attended a business conference where I heard a session about the psychology of change as it relates to your business and employees. My hubby is the business end of our marriage so normally I take these opportunities to daydream and/or doodle. However, I noticed early on in the session that the psychology of change has three distinct part. I said to myself, "Self, this sounds like it follows the three part story model and can be applied to story/character development. Instead of daydreaming I pulled out my pen and surprised my husband by taking vigorous and detailed notes. (Sorry honey, I'm not going to run the business. My mind is on writing, as usual.)

So . . . I thought I'd share what I learned about the real life psychology of change and how it can be applied to our characters and help shape our stories.

The 3 parts are broken down into
Part 1: The Beginning is the End
Part 2: Transition
Part 3: Conclusion

Today's post is dedicated solely to Part 1: It deals with A. the change in your characters life, B. how it effects them and how they deal with it.

Part 1 The Beginning is the End:

The beginning of your story starts at a point of change for your character. This "change" is the end of "something" for your character. Even if the change is positive, like becoming more popular, moving into a new house, having a new family member or travel. All change produces stress and a sense of loss. Ask yourself, "How does this change effect my character. What have they lost as a result of this change?"

A: AREA'S WHERE CHARACTERS FEEL A SENSE OF LOSS AT THE ONSET OF CHANGE.
1) Territory: Does their change cause a sense of displacement in their turf or environment. (ie: does the new brother or sister make your character feel out of place in their own home? Do they have to move rooms? etc)

2) Relationships: How does this change in their life effect their relationships? ie: does their newfound popularity or starring role in the school play cause tension with your characters best friend?)

3) Meaning and purpose in life: Has this life-change caused your character's belief system or purpose in life to be thrown off kilter? Have they lost, in anyway, what gave them a reason for being?

4) Control: What has your character no longer have a hold on? money? health? safety? sleep? etc.

5) Future: How has this change caused your character uncertainty regarding their future?

6) Identity: How has this change caused your character to no longer be what they were before?

7) Structure: How does this change uproot your characters old routine?

B. Now that you've determined area's where your character is experiencing loss, ask yourself, "How does my character respond to their loss?
Do they . . . . .
1) try to restore what they lost? Are they trying to get back exactly what was lost? (ie: get back the same boyfriend)
2) try to replace what was lost? Are they wanting to gain back something similar in a new way? (ie: replace the old boyfriend with a new one)
3) try to redesign what was lost? (ie: develop a new plan. Do they really need a boyfriend? If not, what is their new pursuit?
4) relinquish what was lost? Your character gives up on replacing, restoring or redesigning and moves on to something new altogether.

The next post will be about Part 2, the Transition and what helps or hinders your characters transition.

Words of encouragement for authors and writers, from one of my favorite authors . . . Kathleen Duey

2011-03-03T22:41:00.008-05:00

This interview of Encouragement is especially meaningful to me because one of my favorite authors, Kathleen Duey, has given us her personal insights into handling discouragement as a writer. Kathleen is the author of over 70 b00ks for ages k-YA. This is a gal who has faced the dragons of defeat and fought them head on! She's my hero!!!!

Here, exclusively at Christy's Creative Space, she gives encouragement to writers both published and unpublished based on her years of experience. I hope you get as much out of her words of wisdom as I have. Since I've been researching Unicorns recently, I thought Kathleen would be a great person to interview since she has written a popular series about Unicorns, starting with "Moonsilver" which I will review in the near future.

1. Do you have a favorite saying, quote, or poem that inspires you during times of discouragement?
Quotes , wise sayings, and favorite poems make me smile, laugh, cry, and often touch me deeply, but they don’t help me write when I am discouraged. I have learned to go outside and do something physically exhausting instead of staring at the screen. I put a digital recorder in my pocket when I pick up my garden shovel because once I get out of my head and into my body, ideas always come, characters always talk, and when the chores are done (or sooner, if the ideas are breathless and urgent) I can always write. On bad weather days, I dance to loud music, indoors.

2. Do you have a story about discouragement in your own writing career?
It seems to me that discouragement is a common resting state for most writers. If we work hard, don’t quit, and get lucky, it alternates with wild and glorious writing-fever, joy when a book is acquired, praised…then we start over. Do I have a personal story of discouragement? No. I have a gazillion. So let’s talk about a story in progress:
One of my current works is the third version of something an editor I love is interested in. I was SO sure I had nailed it in both versions one and two. The editor was kind enough to give me some phone time. Talking to her, I finally realized that the parts of the project that tickled her were sidelights for me—and the core inspiration/heart of the thing for me was the “too introspective, less broad-appeal/less commercial” part for her. She wants MUCH more humor. She had said that very clearly, both times. I just wasn’t listening very well. Her last words (via an email) were: “Remember: have fun!”

So.
Start over………????
Day one: Loop tape in my head: Am I capable of writing the kind of humor she wants?
Day two: Loop tape in my head: Seriously. Am I capable of writing anything anyone would want?
Day three: I loved the original version, inspired by immigrant kids I know. That was the heart/mind grounding of the story. The spark. And it had a lot of humor in it. Or so I thought. Can I even TELL what’s funny?
Day four: Maybe the truth is I really can’t write humor very well.
Day five: Maybe the truth is I can’t write humor AT ALL.
Night five: Maybe I didn’t do my homework? Wouldn’t be the first time.
Day six: I reread several very funny books for the age group that have done well in the marketplace. I suddenly saw my revisions as the flimsy compromise/ hybrids/ they were. I had added token humor to please the editor, not the child-reader—or me.
Day seven: The discouragement began to lift because I had identified the problem. It was a HUGE one, but at least I saw it clearly. I used Amazon to read the available pages of a few dozen more best-selling funny books for the age group.
Day eight: I wrote a big, multi colored sticky note that summarized what I had learned: “Self-absorbed characters are usually funnier. If they aren’t inappropriately confident, kind of oblivious, and impervious to real growth, we can’t laugh without guilt.”
Day nine: I began to write down concepts for the next version.
Day ten: I began to hope that I really can nail it this time.
Day eleven onward: I am working on it as much as I can while writing another book. I THINK it is really funny now.

3) What words of encouragement do you have for people who have yet to publish their first manuscript?
Almost nothing is fun until you get good at it and that takes time. Writing is an art, like painting, like playing the violin. Expect a long learning curve and know that it is typical. We all struggle with the elements of writing. We all wrestle words into place, fight with a tough scene for days. We all stare at blank screens, blank paper, the blank face in the mirror and know, beyond all doubt, that we can’t write, then three days later we give ourselves goose bumps writing a scene that resonates in our hearts. Persistence and Patience are your best friends, talk to them often, stay in touch.

4) What words of encouragement do you have for those who are published yet are seeking further publication?
Every writer is seeking further publication, I think. I certainly am. Learning to deal with the gaps and occasional failures and the W. A. I. T. I. N. G…… is just part of the job description. I am not saying it’s easy, I’m saying it’s inescapable and that you will get better at it with practice. Try to always be expanding your skills, experimenting, fiddling with ideas and techniques.

For me, the very best cure for discouragement is to write, to re-discover the exhilaration and of the art and craft itself, to remember how wondrous it is to take thin air and weave a story from it. On my worst days I remind myself that I am part of an ancient, disorganized guild of artists, a scattered and various tribe of people who have always bared their hearts, and by doing so, bared everyone’s hearts. We do something basic, pivotal, essentially human, something that is both loved and needed by everyone. Most days, remembering that is enough to help me nudge discouragement aside and get back to work.

Thank you so much, Kathleen, for taking this time to give us words of encouragement. I love that you find inspiration in living life and dancing. It's also great to know that even the "GREATS" like you, question themselves. It give me hope! :0)

Where Have the Unicorns Gone?

2011-02-03T16:03:00.003-05:00

By Jane Yolen
Illustrated by Ruth Sanderson

If you're looking for a Unicorn PB, this is a great one. The words are seamlessly-dreamy and the illustrations . . . Gorgeous! There's a nice little surprise for the kids (and adults) at the end.

In the author's notes Jane quotes Leis Carroll in Through the Looking Glass, the Unicorn says to Alice, "If you believe in me, I'll believe in you. Is that a bargain?"

You've gotta check out this contest!

2011-02-02T18:45:00.002-05:00

Here's a great opportunity that you should check out. Fabutaunts, PJ Hoover and Jessica Lee Anderson are hosting a Query Critique Contest. You can enter on either of their blogs. Click on their names to go directly to each of their links.

It's a Mythtery! A study of Mythical Creatures and Legends: Unicorn!

2011-02-01T00:00:00.006-05:00

It's a Mythery!
UNICORN
A study of mythical creatures and legends.

(P.S. Please excuse the font and coloring below. I've lost some control over how this post looks and I'm having a hard time figuring out how to set it straight.)

It's February. The month of love and all things that make us googly eyed and hopeful. That's why, as a continuation of my study of mythical creatures and legends, I dedicate this month to the unicorn. Why? Because the Unicorn is one of the few creatures that symbolize goodness, purity and faithfulness. (See symbolism section below.)

(The Unicorn and the Lake), "The unicorn is the only fabulous beast that does not seem to have been conceived out of human fears. In even the earliest references he is fierce yet good, selfless yet solitary, but always mysteriously beautiful." ~Marianna Mayer

Contents:
1) Origins
2) Thoughts and Beliefs About Unicorns, Past and Present
3) Symbolism
4) Purposes and Abilities
5) Traits
6) The Unicorn in Midieval Times
7) Unicorns Around the World
8) Sources

Origins:
A unicorn (from the Latin word unus 'one' and cornu 'horn') described as having a long, straight horn extending from its forehead. The popular modern image of the unicorn is usually that of a horse with a horn. The traditional unicorn also has the beard of a billy goat, the tail of a lion, and cloven hooves.

Thoughts and Beliefs About Unicorns, Past and Present:

1) in 1663, at Unicorn Cave in the Harz Mountains in Germany, a large number of bones were found and reconstructed by the mayor of Magdeburg, Otto Von Guericke. This so-called unicorn had only two legs, and was later found to be constructed from the fossil bones of a wooly rinocerous and mammoth, with the horn of a narwhal. The skeleton was examined by Gottfried Leibniz, who had previously doubted the existence of the unicorn, but was convinced by it.

2) In an interview published in Die Ganze Woch magazine in December of 1991, the renowned Austrian naturalist Antal Festetics, a visiting professor at Gottingen University, made a startling claim. He recounted an incident which occurred while he was filming a wildlife documentary in the Harz Mountains. One night, he said, he was out on horseback in the neighborhood of the Einhornhohle with a video camera when, "Suddenly a unicorn came towards me at a gallop. There was a glow of light around the animal. My horse reared and almost threw me. Then, just as quickly, it was gone."The following April (1992) Festetics repeated his claim in a television interview. What is more, he claims he captured the encounter with the unicorn on video. Even though none of this footage was broadcast in his three-part documentary program, it is reportedly available for viewing in Gottingen.

How truthful is his claim? Who knows. Festetics neither staked his reputation on it nor admitted to having exercised poetic license. But who knows, maybe someone will will be inspired and write a great fiction book based on this info! :0)

3) Look up Evidence of Unicorns on You Tube and you'll find some footage claiming a Unicorn sighting. Some video's are apparently just for fun, but there are a few that seem to genuinely believe that they caught the real deal on camera.

4) There is a Face Book Fan Page called "I believe in Unicorns" They have a couple hundred members.

5) Many famous people have claimed to have encountered a Unicorn. Marco Polo (see below under "Unicorns in Midieval Times") Alexander the Great claimed to have ridden a unicorn into battle. Julius Caesar reported seeing a unicorn in the forests of Germany. A unicorn appeared to Confucius's mother, telling of the great Chinese philosopher's birth. It later appeared to Confucius, foretelling his death. A unicorn was supposed to live in the garden of Huang Di, the Yellow Emperor. He believed it meant his reign would be long and peaceful. In China the unicorn is seen as a good omen and will only appear to humans if it has important information. If the world is suffering difficult times, the unicorn will disappear.

Herodotus wrote about the "horned ass" of Africa in the 3rd century BC and around the same time, Ctesias, who was a Greek physician and historian, traveled to Persia where he heard tales of "the wild ass of India." This creature was supposed to as be as large as a horse with a white body, red head, blue eyes and a long white, black and red horn. Stories of this alicorn, as it is known, intrigued Ctesis. As a physician, the idea of an object that cured ills, prolonged life and protected a person from all poisons was remarkable. Aristotle heard of Ctesis's stories, and although he believed the unicorn to be a real animal, he did not believe its horn held any special powers.

6) Many scientists say that while there are one horned creatures that have been spotted and documented, they attribute these animals to be victims of genetic mutation, rather than an undiscovered species. ie: the one horned Italian deer found at a wildlife preserve in the town of Prato, outside of Florence.

7) Because Ctesias spoke of the unicorn in the court of Darius II, the King of Persia in 416 BC. Chinese writings date back to 2800 BC. The men of the ancient world believed in the existence of the unicorn, so the object of their searching was to find it, not to prove it existed. It wasn't until later in history that man began to doubt the unicorn's physical existence. In the ninth century,Margoulies wrote, "It is universally held that the unicorn is a supernatural being and of auspicious omen; so say the odes, the annals, the biographies of worthies, and other texts whose authority is unimpeachable.Even village women and children know the unicorn is a lucky sign. But this animal does not figure among the barnyard animals, it is not always easy to come across, it does not lend itself to zoological classification, nor isit like the horse or bull, the wolf or deer. In such circumstances we may be face to face with a unicorn and not know for sure that we are. We know a certain animal with a mane is a horse and that a certain animal with horns is a bull. We do not know what the unicorn looks like."

8) It is said that Pope Paul III paid 12,000 pieces of gold for the horn of a Unicorn and James I of England paid 10,000 pounds sterling for one. What they most likely had paid for was the tusk of a narwhal

Symbolism:
1) In Midieval lore the unicorn symbolized the incarnation of Christ (as in the Physiologous)
2) Death
3) Beguiled lovers
4) Some writers translate unicorn and virgin lore as allegory of the relationship between Christ Jesus and the Virgin Mary.
5) With the rise of humanism, the unicorn took on more secular meanings, emblematic of chaste love and faithful marriage.
6) Strength
7) Purity
8) Beauty

Traits:
1) Can only be captured by unfair means or by a maiden. In one of his notebooks Leonardo De Vinci wrote:

"The unicorn, through its intemperance and not knowing how to control itself, for the love it bears to fair maidens forgets its ferocity and wildness; and laying aside all fear it will go up to a seated damsel and go to sleep in her lap, and thus the hunters take it."

2) able to converse with humans but in a strange telepathic way that has no need for words. Their audible voice is rarely heard and then only as a cry of rage when driven beyond endurance, a scream so dreadful that often it is enough in itself to destroy the sanity of an aggressor.

3) Unicorns are not easily provoked but they guard their lives and independence fiercely and would sooner die than submit to the indignity of capture. Usually they are of a placid, gently disposition and the natural friend of most other creatures.

4) Although friendly towards other animals, the Unicorn is solitary by inclination, particularly keeping away from its own kind except after mating, when couples live together in tenderness while rearing their young.

5) Jewish legend says they can kill an elephant

6) How can you tell if you have a real unicorn horn or an imposter? Place the horn in a vessel of any sort of material you like, and with it three or four large and live scorpions, keeping the vessel covered. If you find four hours later that the scorpions are dead or almost lifeless, the horn is a good one.

The Unicorn in Midieval Times:
1) The royal throne of Denmark was said to be made of "unicorn horns" – Most likely narwhal tusks. The same material was used for ceremonial cups because the unicorn's horn continued to be believed to neutralize poison, following classical authors.

The unicorn, tamable only by a virgin woman, was well established in medieval lore by the time Marco Polo described them as:

scarcely smaller than elephants. They have the hair of a buffalo and feet like an elephant's. They have a single large black horn in the middle of the forehead... They have a head like a wild boar's… They spend their time by preference wallowing in mud and slime. They are very ugly brutes to look at. They are not at all such as we describe them when we relate that they let themselves be captured by virgins, but clean contrary to our notions.

It is clear that Marco Polo was describing a rhinoceros. In Germany, since the 16th century, Einhorn ("one-horn") has become a descriptor of the various species of rhinoceros.

2) Ancient Norwegians were said to believe the narwhal to have affirmed the existence of the unicorn. The unicorn horn was believed to stem from the narwhal tooth, which grows outward and projects from its upper jaw.

3) It was popular belief, in the seventeenth century, perpetuated by Sir Thomas Browne in his Pseudodoxia Epidemica, unicorn horns could neutralize poisons. Those who feared poisoning sometimes drank from goblets made of "unicorn horn". "Unicorn" products such as milk and hide were sold at exuberant prices because of their alleged aphrodisiac qualities.

Unicorns Around the World:

C o m ahueto mythological bull-unicorn)
Indrik (Russian folklore)
Monoceros (Constellation and Medieval Bestiary)
Okapi (a real animal often called the "African unicorn")
Qilin (a unicorn-like creature in Chinese mythology)
Shadhavar (a unicorn-like creature in Persian folklore)

Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unicorn#Alleged
http://www.universalleonardo.org/work.php?id=438
http://www.unicornlady.net/legends/evidence.html
http://peperonity.com/go/sites/mview/enchanted/12456050
http://www.allaboutunicorns.com/what.php
http://home.swipnet.se/~w-59099/maskrosbarnen/Unicorn/Unicorn.htm
"Giants, Monsters and Dragns, An Encyclopedia of Folklore, Legend and Myth" by Carol Rose
The Complete Encyclopedia of Mythology

It's a Mythtery! A study of Mythical Creatures and Legends: Genie/Djinni

2011-01-21T02:01:00.002-05:00

photo from Download-Free-Pictures.com

IT'S A MYTHTERY!
A Study of Mythological Creatures and Legends
Genie/Djinn

Welcome to another new segment of my blog. I've currently been doing a truck load of research on genies for my current WIP, so I thought it would be fun to share what I know, as well as research other mythical creatures throughout the year. I hate to horde all this genie knowledge and keep it to myself. There's plenty to go around for everyone! Who knows, if it works out well I may keep it as a staple here at Christy's Creative Space. We'll see how it goes. Let me know what you think. Are there any Mythical creatures or Characters that you would like to see researched in the future?

Contents:
1)Modern day thoughts regarding Genies (truth is stranger than fiction)
2)Writers Toolbox; Association and symbolism
3)History
-origins
-traits
4)Six different levels or tribes of Djinni
5)Strengths
6)Weakness
7)Major Legends
8)Books about or containing djinn
9)Sources

Modern day thoughts regarding Genies: (truth is stranger than fiction)
While the majority don't believe in the existence of Genies, there are some who still believe they can be contacted and summoned. Below are some modern day examples:

1) People sell Djinn on e-bay. Most of them come as residents in jewelry and other trinkets.

2) There are You-tube video's claiming to have recorded genies.

3) A Saudi Lawyer wanted to have a Djinn testify in court. http://www.emirates247.com/news/region/lawyer-wants-jinn-to-testify-in-court-2010-10-23-1.307686

4) A college student has a scare when a friend conjures up a Djinn http://paranormal.about.com/od/demonsandexorcism/a/aa112105.htm

5)In 1998, Pakistani nuclear scientist Sultan Bashiruddin Mahmood proposed in a Wall Street Journal interview that jinn could be tapped to solve the energy crisis. "I think that if we develop our souls, we can develop communication with them. ... Every new idea has its opponents, but there is no reason for this controversy over Islam and science because there is no conflict between Islam and science." (Wikipedia)

6) When a Djinn dies, its soul infuses the area of its death. If this can be somehow harvested, it can be used to create magic of great curative properties. It is said that such magic can raise the dead, greatly extend life, and bestow great powers. (http://legendsguide.com/793/legend-of-the-different-types-of-djinn/)

7) There are web-sites that sell the secrets to summoning an rituals so that you can have your very own Genie who can give you winning lottery numbers, dig treasure, and aid you in teleportation and grant any wish in the blink of an eye. (for a price, of course) Since I don't personally endorse rituals such as this I'm not going to provide any links. But, as a writer, I find this fact fascinating for its fictional possibilities so I thought I'd mention it anyway.

Writers toolbox: Association/Symbolism
Forms:
-smoke
-fire
-animals (especially birds, dogs, camels, worms, porpoise, horse)
-guide
-preditor
-spirit
-cyclones/dust clouds
-protector

Slavery:
-bonds/shackles
-jars
-lamps
-magicians
-spells/summoning
-jewelry
-dolls
-heirlooms
-traps
-use of intelligence and cunning in order to escape bondage
-Anger (loathes anyone who enslaves them)
-killer (will destroy master if he finds a way to escape from his bond)
-treasure finder
-builder
-wish granter
-transporter
-pain (being summoned is painful)

Power:
-flight
-grants masters bidding
-shape-shifting
-invisibility
-ability to travel to different realms as well as anywhere in the universe
-has free will (ability to choose good or evil)
-Can be summoned and bonded by use of the djinn's giving name along with a summoning spell.

Let's take a look at Genie history:
Djinn, Djinni, Jinn, Genii, Jinniyah. Jinn is the female singular form; Djinni being the male plural and Jinniyah, or Jineeyah, being the female plural form.

Origin: These supernatural beings have been a fundamental element of the magical and popular magnitude of the Islamic religion. Pre-Islamic society thought them to be nature spirits who could drive a man to insanity. Jinniyah that take the shape of a beautiful woman and seduces men are called succubi (sincular: succubus) , especially monks and men of religious stature, and usually kills the men at a later time. The male counterpart to the succubi is the incubus.

-The root of the original root of jinn is said to come from the Semitic root "JNN" which refers to hidden or concealed. The word genie in English is derived from Latin genius, which meant guardian spirit.

Traits:
-Super-human beings made of fire and flames, capable of taking on a variety of forms.
-They are considered to be spirits, but lower in form than an angel.
-They can be good or evil.
-Believed to be made of smokeless fire by The Creator himself.
-Sometimes able to take control of a persons body.
-When the Djinn are not walking the deserts looking for those they can prey on, they are thought to live in mythical mountains that are believed to encircle the earth. In Islam this mythical range is known as the Kaf and here they stay along with other mystical supernatural demons and beings.
-Possesses free will
-Can fly
-Generally despise masters who bind them into slavery and are eager to destroy that master at the first slip up that will release them from their bonds or will seek to use their Master's words against them if possible.
-Sly and cunning
-some said that if a person refused to believe in Islam that they would become a demon or a Djinn.

Different Levels of Djinni: There are believed to be 4-6 different tribes/types of Djinn:
1)the True Djinn: mostly stayed neutral; is the largest, and therefore most influential tribe out of all six of them. They are closely related to the Efreeti tribe. Most of the True Djinn have now taken up sides of the Great War among the tribes, but the neutral ones are feral; attacking everything in sight, and people assume that they are evil. Within the True Djinn tribe, there are Aku Djinn, who were fierce and flesh hungry; Emberwilde Djinn, who ruled the fire plane; Ernham Djinn, the hunters that use their powers to make more of a chase for themselves in the forested areas; Juzam Djinn, the second most powerful Djinn, often rebelling against their masters (Sahirs), making it difficult to own or control one; Kookus Djinn, which the goblins of Jamuraan Mountains took it upon themselves to contain them and give them the unfortunate name that is pronounced "cook-us"; Ravnican Djinn, which were considered too dangerous to exist by the Guildpact, and the ones that were still alive at the decamillenium were forced into labor in the polar regions; and lastly there's the Serendib Djinn, extremely powerful, smart and strong, with the ability to grant wishes.
2)Djann: followed the path of truth, the second most common and second most dangerous of Djinn tribes. Known mostly as Fire Djinn, they embrace light more than any other tribe, but they are not constant friends with man. They normally defend those they find pure. Constant enemies of the Efretis, Nekrataals, and Ghuls. They normally hide in the desert in oasis's, and because of this, they were the first Djinn to make contact with humans. Caravan travelers tend to respect these Djinn since they may reveal or hide an oasis to the ones they deem worthy or unworthy. They often appear as white camels or soldiers, and usually disappear into sand cyclones. Because of their desert dwelling habits and avoiding cities, this puts them into contact with the Ghul Djinn tribe.
3)Efreet (Ifrit): chose to declare war on light. was mainly in charge. inherently evil and declared war on the Djann. Known mostly as Fire Djinn, they have been evil since ancient days and war against the Light tribes. Some of the Djinn in the Efreet tribe are Ifh-biff Efreeti, capricious and not quite as strong as their fellow Efreeti, can still unleash a vicious windstorm on an opponent; Junn Efreeti, the worst of their kind - they incite madness in their victims or control the weak by locking eyes with them; Serendib Efreeti, profane, cunning, and enjoying suffering; and the Wildfire Efreeti, main servants to the Emberwilde Djinn.
4)Nekrataal: chose to declare war on light. The longest living Djinn tribe. Mainly live in marshy regions and bring plague and despair to everything they touch. They are more known to appear as beautiful men and women, although they have been told to show as black camels. As they are the weakest of all Djinn, they resort to manipulation and trickery to reach their goals. Later on, in stories told in books, they became referred to as "human assassin", with a bug on their shoulder being the manifestation of the Nekrataal.
5)Marid: chose to declare war on light. the oldest, wisest, and most powerful tribe were allowed to choose as they saw fit; most of them tended to side with the Djann on their path of truth. The most respected Djinn tribe Perhaps because of their age, they are like ancients compared to the rest. Their numbers are few and scattered, but they are the most powerful of all the Djinn. They master weather, wind, and water, and because of this they tend to live near the coasts and appear in great waterspouts. Many Marids have ascended the mortal plane, choosing not to get involved with the Great War between the Djinn. Marids usually appear in the form of an old man, porpoise, or horse, to lead travelers to safer courses.
6) Ghul: chose to declare war on light. inherently evil and declared war on the Djann.
(three of these types can be found in the book The Arabian Nights). Within in the six tribes, they battle good and evil among themselves, much like humans do. The lowest order of the tribes falls to the Ghuls, who feed off of power from the dead. Despite being intelligent, they follow their feral instincts and act like animals when looking for food. They will commonly disguise themselves as pilgrims, and will attack random people if not shown proper hospitality. It's said that if you offer a Ghul salt, it will refuse to harm the giver and his household. Ghuls will fight each other for food, and it's not unheard of if they dig up a grave to desecrate the dead if food is scarce. Powerful Ghuls can take the form of vultures and follow lesser Ghuls into battlefields with dying and wounded soldiers. To pass through the desert with no trouble from Ghuls, it is suggested that you carry iron with you.

Their strengths:
-Can become invisible or take on the form of any animal or human.
-Some can travel between the human realm and the realm where angels reside.
-Can fly
-Can be invisible to humans

Their weaknesses:
-Sensitive to silver which can burn their flesh and possibly cause death.
-Can be tricked or coerced into having their powers weakened or preventing them from doing harm to a human.
-Can be bound into slavery by humans.
-Some are sensitive to iron.
-Their given birth name allows them to be summoned and

Major legends and Mythys:
1) It is told that King Solomon controlled many Djinn with a special ring. With the power of his ring he used the Djinn to build the Temple of Jerusalem as well as other splendid buildings and gardens.

2) The Djinn's powers were consistently fading away due to the constant warring between the tribes; King Suleiman decided to put an end to it. He took this chance to bind the spirits to his command. As he rose through the ranks of power, it is said he used a serpent staff, a cauldron, and a ring to capture seventy Djinn. The most powerful of all the ones enslaved was the True Djinn Shamir, who eventually took the form of a
meager worm.

3) Aladdin. Need I say more?

Books about or containing genies:
The Bartimaus Trilogy by Johnathan Stroud
The Genie Scheme by Kimberly K. Jones
The Arabian Nights
Delcare by Tim Powers is a spy story mixed with a djinn twist
The Sandman Collection: Fables and Reflections by Neil Gaiman (often refers to djinn)
American Gods by Neil Gaiman has an ifrit taxi driver
The Complete Encyclopedia of Mythology

Sources:
http://www.helium.com/items/1614661-the-history-of-djinn-folklore
http://www.helium.com/items/1303531-history-of-genies
http://www.helium.com/items/1400853-mythology-djinn
http://mythicalbeasties.blogspot.com/2008/09/d-for-djinn.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jinn
http://www.balashon.com/2007/02/genie.html
http://legendsguide.com/793/legend-of-the-different-types-of-djinn/

If any genie loving experts out there are reading this blog and you feel like I'm missing info or have something that needs to be corrected, please send me a message and let me know. I don't presume this to be a perfect document. I'm happy to update.

Book Review: Undercover by Beth Kephart

2011-01-17T09:03:00.002-05:00

UNDERCOVER by Beth Kephart
A review from a writers perspective

Imagine words pirouetting in a perfectly choreographed line straight into the depth of your soul. Along the way their magic softens calluses and sets free the hidden and the buried things that you've justified into darkness yet have managed to take root in your very core. The words breeze by, stir up the muck and set them free. This phenomenon may result in tears, relief, latent therapy or just made you take time to stop and think, but they've done some good none-the-less, in one way or another. That's what lyrical language does for me. That's what this book did. Beautifully written.

Why I picked it up? I went to flashlightworthy.com and looked for reading suggestions. The description and the mention of "lyrical language" caught my eye.

The Story: The story in itself is simple: Girl (Elisa) with low self esteem and a crumbling home life likes boy. Boy dates another girl. What sets this book apart from other books with a similar story line is the materials with which it is woven into an intricate and thoughtful design. Kephart created a modern day, teen Cyrano De Bergerac (Elisa) and adorned her with a unique perspective on life and a love for skating that helps her step out of her shell so she can face her troubles with confidence and realize the beauty within herself.

The Characters: Most of the characters are well-rounded and well-done. The only Character that I think could have been more developed was Lila, the girlfriend of our main characters love interest. Lila's character is flat and since we know so little about what fuels her over-dramatic outbursts towards Elisa, it makes Lila's character and her excessive actions feel a bit forced.

The Voice: The things that make up the voice of this book: The lyrical language (of course) Even though this is a lyrical book Kephart is still able to maintain an authentic teen mindset and thought process, Elisa's unique perspective and contemplation about the world around her, strong use of symbolism with a statue, a lake and the change of seasons.

The Underlying Theme: What is going on beneath this regular girl with regular problems? She is learning to not give into her troubles and let them keep her from having what she wants just because she has always believed that she didn't deserve them.

I believe that the best of the best of the books out there have a sentence or a paragraph (usually found somewhere in the last quarter of the book that states or gives clue to the underlying theme of the book. Since it is written so well, I want to share this paragraph where I found (what I believe to be) the underlying theme.

Part 2 chapter 18
setting: Elisa is contemplating her honors English class study of Cyrano De Bergerac as he cares for Roxanne after the death of Christian, yet he never tells her the truth of his love and his letters, that the words that made her fall in love with Christian were really his words and his sentiments.
". . . . But what does he do, for fourteen years? He attends to Roxanne's fantasy. 'It is written/ that I should build for others and be forgotten . . .' he says. 'I stand below in dark--'tis all my story--/while others climb to snatch the kiss of glory.'
Here's what I think, when I think about it more: beauty is a cruel deception, true. But the greatest tragedy of all is letting invisibility win. It's choosing to give up the thing you want because you think you don't deserve it."

On a scale from 1-5 I give this book a 4. It's a great read and a ton of literary jewels for a writer to uncover and put in their little literary box of treasures.

What you may not know about me . . .

2011-01-16T21:23:00.004-05:00

Thanks to Katrina Lantz for giving this blog award to me.

Since I'm a very obedient person and adhere to all rules (a-hem) I will do what all who post this award must do; Post 15 things that you probably don't know about me.

1) I study 2 disciplines of martial arts; Taekwondo and Hapkido

2) I don't mind going to the movies by myself. I actually kind of like it when I feel like a need an "escape"

3) I have broken both of my legs and both of my arms, but not at the same time. This last broken ankle was the clincher. I'd really like to stop breaking bones now.

4) In 7th grade, my English teacher accused me of plagiarizing a poem that I had written for an assignment. (It was called Lead Foot Granny) I was so embarrassed that I didn't keep it. In hindsight, I wish I had.

5) When I was 16 I got to travel through France for a month with my French group.

6) My husband and I only knew each other for one week before we started talking about getting married. I was only 21 when we got married. The odds were against us, but we'll be celebrating year 18 this May.

7) I had some unusual pets as a kid such as; a turtle, an iguana and hermit crabs

8) I love turkey bologna.

9) My favorite Starbucks drink is a skinny vanilla latte.

10) I was hit by a car when I was 5 years old (see #3) with a broken arm, leg and my face split open, I was lucky I survived.

11) I was a gymnast and a figure skater when I was younger

12) I went to the same church with Clay Aiken a year before he went on American Idol. My jaw dropped the first time I heard him sing a solo from the stage.

13) I once went to a hard-core biker wedding. I went dressed in shorts and still felt over dressed.

14) I once had a friend who had a guinea pig that would do back flips after it ate broccoli.

15) I have a tattoo.

Now I'm supposed to tag people. The rules say it should be 15 people, but honestly by this point it's hard to find bloggers who haven't already had this award given to them. I'll just tag some people and not worry about how many it ends up being. I mean, there aren't any blogging award police out there, is there?

I am tagging:

Kelly Pollark, Rena Jones, Angela Ackerman, Bish Denham, MG Higgins, Cynthia Chapman Willis. Also, if I didn't post your name but you want to participate then consider yourself tagged!

Beth Revis Gives Encouragement to Writers

2011-01-11T09:18:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday
Across the Universe!

That's right. Today is the long anticipated birth of Beth Revis' brain child, ACROSS THE UNIVERSE

Congratulations Beth! I know the world is going to go gaga over your book.

I also thought this would be a good opportunity to start a new segment on my blog called "Encouragement for Writers from Authors, Editors and Agents." Who better to be my first Encouragement Interview than Beth!

So, Thank you Beth for sharing some words of encouragement for writers on your very special day.

Beth, Do you have a favorite saying, quote or poem that inspires you during times of discouragement?
I love Winston Churchill's quote: "Never never never never never give up."

Do you have a brief story about discouragement in your own writing career that you would like to share with us?
The truth of the matter is that I was rejected for ten years before I got a single acceptance. That sucked. There's no other way to put it. I was ready to give up, and very nearly did, but decided to give it one last shot...and that ended up being ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, the book that changed everything.

What words of encouragement do you have for people who have yet to publish their fist manuscript?
Keep writing. By this, I mean: write each novel like it's The One--revise it, edit it, work on it, and submit it--but if it doesn't work out, write the next novel. Don't let yourself stagnate. Keep writing.

What words of encouragement do you have for those who are published yet are seeking further publication?
Keep writing. The same principle applies to the published author as to the unpublished one. Keep working, keep striving, and never never never never never give up.

Anything else to add?
If you haven't read it, check out Paolo Coelho's novel, THE ALCHEMIST. It's a wonderful book about seeking and striving towards your dreams, and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to try to become something more.

Thanks for your encouraging words, Beth. You are an inspiration! Also, thanks for rec. the Alchemist. I'll have to check that out, but before I do, I HAVE to read Across the Universe first! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy.

I give a whole new meaning to "breaking a resolution"

2011-01-03T13:29:00.003-05:00

It's only the 3rd of January and I've already broke my resolution. Literally.

OK, so it's not necessarily a resolution for the new year. I have an ongoing resolution to work on my health and fitness goals. It's pretty much a staple in my life. January just seems like a good time to renew that commitment. So . . . this morning I wake up at around 5:00. I'm feeling energetic and peppy, so I decide to take the dogs for a walk before waking the kids up for school. I bundle up. Walk out the door, walk down the driveway, slip on ice at the end of the driveway and break my ankle. I had to crawl up the drive and up the stairs to wake up my hubby to take me to the emergency room. To make a long story short, I have to have surgery on my ankle in the morning to have a metal plate put on my bone.

So, my new New Years resolution is to not take the dogs for a walk early in the morning. Nothing good happens that early in the morning. Sleep in people! It's the safest thing to do.

I'll be off my feet for about 6-8 weeks, so it looks like I'll have more time to dedicate to my writing. I'm thinking about doing a NaNo Break-mo. I've started an idea for a new book, so maybe it'll be fun to see what I can do with that for the next 6-8 weeks and an ample supply of pain killer.

On a more positive note, here's a link to my article that was published in the 2011 Charlotte Parent Baby Guide. Click here to see it.

Psssst!!! Come a little closer. I have a secret to share.

2010-12-29T09:51:00.007-05:00

the Genie Scheme by Kimberly K. Jones

a review from a writers perspective

Do you ever have things magically disapper? Socks, toys, jewelry, books? Psst . . . . ! Come a little closer. I've got a secret to share with you.

I've done a little research on this "disappearing epidemic" and I found some interesting intel. The answer to this phenomenon? Genies. Yep. That's right.

I learned this info from Janna, a teen who feel like she lives in poverty because her mom drives an old car and they have to shop at second hand stores, showed a random act of kindness to a bag lady. Turns out this wasn't your run-of-the-mill bag lady. Nope! She was a Genie. Apparently when you show kindness to a Genie, this binds them to you as their master.

Janna was finally able to have everything she had ever dreamed about. Unfortunately, she learned very quickly that genies don't just *poof* things out of thin air. Anything that they give to you has to *poof* out of the possession of someone or someplace else. Janna learns that there are consequences to our greed and materialization of our wishes.

So . . . all those socks that you've lost, they've gone to some poor sap that needs to learn how to make better wishes. Missing books? Gone to some lucky reader who has a magical-endless supply of reading material.

Story: The Genie Scheme is a cute and humorous story best suited for the tween reader. I think an older teen audience would think the moral of the story might be too preachy.

Chracterization: The main character has realistic problems and realistic reactions to them, her character was written well. The genie is funny and likeable. I love the Genie!
The only downside to the characterization is that the "bad guys" fall flat. There seems to be little (if any) redeemable qualities in the antagonists making their personalities unrealistic. Also, there seems to be a blanket idea that all "rich" people are self serving and bad.

Voice: Each character had their own distinctive, consistent and believable voice. Great job on voice!

Overall this is a cute, fast and fun read. And with all our hopes and dreams building up in anticipation of the New Year, this is a good book to remind us to "be careful what you wish for because you just might get it!"

That lead me to ask . . . what do you wish for 2011 to bring?

Critter's new mom just started a blog!

2010-12-23T13:50:00.002-05:00

Critter's new adopted mom has set up a new blog in honor of Critter's arrival. Please stop by her blog and welcome Sherri Carpenter and Critter to the blogosphere! http://followsherriandcritter.blogspot.com/

Critter is up for auction!

2010-12-13T12:19:00.003-05:00

Click here to go directly to Critter's auction on e-bay!

It has been 15 month, and the time has finally come for Critter's auction! Along with Critter in all his autographed glory, I also made a nice little 20 page scrapbook documenting his travels. you can see the details of the scrapbook by clicking here http://www5.snapfish.com/snapfish/projectshareewelcome/l=2376313028/p=345131292260621756/g=1555904028/cobrandOid=1000/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/otsc=SYE/otsi=SPBKlink/

this is a picture of what artist,Robert Bateman wrote on Critter's backside.

Are you just finding out about Critter right now? Who is Critter?
Good question.

For over 14 months Critter has traveled the world visiting talented writers, artists, and authors: while exploring their world. Christy Evers sent out Critter after an interactive art project, directed by the cutting edge artist, Ian Sands.

Critter has visited (and was signed) by PJ Hoover (author of the Forgotten Worlds trilogy) and the Texas Sweethearts, in Texas. Beth Revis in North Carolina (whose debut novel, Across the Universe, coming out in January 2011, is expected to be a HUGE success!). Christina Farley in Korea, New England with Nandini Bajpai, Illinois with Kelly Polark, (who is frequented in Highlights magazine), MG Higgins in California, Rena Jones (author of multiple picture books) in Montana, Cynthia Leitich Smith (NY Times best-selling author) in Texas, Bish Denham in the Virgin Islands, Jacqui Robbins (author of “The New Kid and Me”, and “Two of a Kind”) in Michigan, Tina Ferraro, (author of “How to Hook a Hottie, Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Prom Dress, and The ABC’s of Kissing Boys) in California, Cynthia Chapman Willis, (Picture book author of “Dog Gone” and “Buck Fever”) in New Jersey, Jill S. Alexander, (YA author of “The Sweetheart of Prosper County”) in Texas, Ellen Oh in Virginia, Alberta, Canada with Angela Ackerman (the blog-genius behind the “Writing Thesaurus”. The World-famous artist, Robert Bateman, also signed Critter (on his backside) as an honorary host.

Critter’s Travels have caused him to be beaten around the edges and cracked just a bit, but I think that adds to his charm . . . scarred like a foam-board Indian Jones (for St. Jude) or something like that. It hasn’t taken away from the integrity of the signatures, though. He has traveled the globe in 14 months. He looks pretty good (for being handled by the U.S. post office) The signatures of fabulous people (in addition to his worthy cause) well makes up for his worn edges. Upon his return trip to me he was cracked a bit, but it was easily repaired with super glue.

The winning bidder will receive THE autographed (by the notable people mentioned above) Critter as well as a 20-page scrapbook documenting his travels.

He will be shipped in the flag-case, as shown in the picture, along with the 20 page scrapbook (designed by Snapfish).

You can view Critter's travels on the sidebar of my blog at http://ChristysCreativeSpace.blogspot.com

%100 of the winning bid will go to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

What is Critterpalooza?

2010-11-20T10:39:00.002-05:00

Hey look! It's me! They interviewed me over at Operation Awesome (isn't that a fabulous name for a blog?)

Get the inside scoop about how Critter started traveling around the world.

Also, there is still time to enter Critterpalooza for a chance to win one of the 17 amazing prizes that include but are not limited to books, critiques, skype chats, gift certificates and more! Go to the Bookshelf Muse and enter while you still can!

Critterpalloza = lots of prizes!!! share the wealth!

2010-11-18T07:48:00.000-05:00

Kidlit Critterpalooza!

by Angela Ackerman (The Bookshelf Muse)

For over a year now, CRITTER, the creation of artist Ian Sands, has been travelling the world, meeting talented writers and authors and exploring where they live. At each stop he learns more and more about KIDLIT and the importance of literacy and creativity. This journey was the brainchild of Christy Evers, (Thats me! Thanks Angela!) who got her hands on Critter after an interactive art project of Ian’s, where 500 Critters were hidden all over her city for people to find.

Critter has visited PJ Hoover (and the Texas Sweethearts!) in Texas, Beth Revis in North Carolina, Christina Farley in Korea, New England with Nandini Bajpai, Illinois with Kelly Polark, MG Higgins in California, Rena Jones in Montana, Cynthia Leitich Smith in Texas, Bish Denham in the Virgin Islands, Jacqui Robbins in Michigan, Tina Ferraro in California, Cynthia Chapman Willis in New Jersey, Jill S. Alexander in Texas, Ellen Oh in Virginia and is now in Alberta, Canada with Angela Ackerman.

Critter has been to college, rock concerts, national landmarks, a palace, attended his first SCBWI conference, walked among giant redwoods, and met the world famous artist, Robert Bateman. Now that his journey is coming to a close, it’s CRITTER’S hope that you will help him celebrate over at The Bookshelf Muse. His new hosts, together with old hosts, have teamed up to create the Kidlit-inspired event, Critterpalooza! and you’re invited.

There are many AMAZING prizes to be won, all in the spirit of helping Critter celebrate the wonderful creativity & support within out KIDLIT community, and to also raise awareness for his charity, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

If you would like to donate a few dollars to Critter’s charity, just click on the "I (heart) St. Jude" button (above)! Children’s lives are saved every day thanks to the support of people like you.

Took my kids to an art exhibit, gave them markers and . . . . .

2010-11-15T18:05:00.011-05:00

So . . . I took my kids to an art exhibit, put markers in their hands and then told them to draw on the exhibit pieces.

But don't worry. That's what we were supposed to do. :0D Did I have you worried? Remember Critter's creator, Ian Sands? He has an interactive art exhibit up at the Halle Cultural Arts Center in downtown Apex, NC. It's brilliant. The kids didn't want to leave. Ian has found a way to involve the art patrons in a new way. It's fun-tab-ulous.

Just in case you can't read the sign, it says, "This exhibit contains many interactive pieces. Loosen up and enjoy yourself."

Speaking of Critter, You need to pop on over to Angela's blog. She has more great photo's of Critter in Canada. Now, here's an interesting tid-bit of info. In the picture below, Angela took Critter to see Robert Bateman (not Batman) a world-famous artist. As it turns out, Robert Bateman was a huge influence on Ian Sands in his high school years. Ian told me that some of the sketches that he used to get into art school were his Batemen-influenced sketchtes. Neat how things come around, huh? It makes you think that maybe there is some sort of order to this cRaZy world, huh? Not only did Critter get his picture taken w/ Mr. Bateman but he also signed him as an honorary Critter host. ~squeal!~

But seriously, you need to go to Angela's blog to read the whole story. You can either click on the picture or click here to beam yourself over to her blogship.

Jedi Master Kitty says "Go ahead, haz a sip!"

2010-11-11T10:24:00.004-05:00

Today's inspiration comes from Jedi Master Kitty and Thomas Edison. Jedi Master Kitty wants to get you into shape! He doesn't want you to simply have a sip of success. He wants you to BE a SIP.

What is a SIP?

I'm glad you asked.

S uccess
I n
P rogress

Thomas Edison said, "Many of life's failures are men who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."

Jedi Master Kitty is training me to be a SIP and not give into discouragement. Who want's to be a SIP too?

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some training to do with one tough Jedi Master.

I hate it when my antiques hurl me into the space/time continuum . . .

2010-11-08T11:38:00.007-05:00

Depressed teen, Martin Conway didn't like it much either. Martin lives in the shadows of an alcoholic father, an overcritical mother and an over-achieving sister. What makes is worse is that everyone hopes that he will measure up to his namesake; a WWII hero of a Grandfather. But Martin can't measure up. He makes poor grades in school, has few friends and when he is picked on by a group of boys at school, he ends up suspended for something that he didn't do. It turns out that he has more in common with his alcoholic father and his mentally ill uncle more than his grandfather.

Everything changes when his mystical grandmother dies and leaves him her antique radio from the 1940's. As he falls asleep to the radio static, he is transported back in time to WWII Where a a boy named Jimmy is pleading for his help, although he's not exactly sure what he needs Martin to do. . . . yet.

This book was a pleasant surprise. I picked it up at the library on a whim. I luv, luv, luv it when that happens!

Book characterization: I like how the characters in this book are believable. They are all flawed yet have their own endearing traits. This book gently explores alcoholism, depression and mental illness in a positive way. I would recommend this book for children facing such issues.

Voice: I think the main characters voice was a little weak. He used several words that I wouldn't expect a teenage boy to use. However that didn't take away (much) of my enjoyment of the voice. I cared about the character and his circumstances. I loved the voice of the WWII boy, Jimmy. I felt like I got a good sense of who he was and his perspective.

The underlying drive of the book: I think this is what sets this book apart from other time-travel/historical fiction books. The underlying question asks, "What do you think makes one man a disgrace and another one a hero?" The story explores how some of those who have been deemed "great" may not be as wonderful as we would like to think. Likewise, those who we tend to look down our noses at may actually be the ones who come through for us in the end.

On a scale of 1 LUV to 5 LUVS, I rate it 4Luvs! <3 <3 <3 <3

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go find an old radio and see where (and when) it will take me.

Do you NaNo? Mini NaNo? PBWriMO? . . . . plus see critter trying on costumes

2010-11-03T13:46:00.006-04:00

I did NaNo WriMo (for those of you not familiar with the term NaNo WriMo stands for National Novel Writing month) about two years ago. It was fun, but the story ended up being a flop. That was a huge disappointment. I may try it again another year. For now, I'm just trying to figure out how to fit "writing" into my schedule. I miss it. It's my "ME" time. My "therapy" time. My FuN time. Plus, I HAVE to write. If I get out of story writing for too long it makes me feel all wOnKy and causes me to type too many capital letters.

So . . . instead of diving into writing a whole new novel this November, I decided to set a goal that was more doable for my current situation. I'm taking 2 hours 3 mornings a week where I wrap myself up in my cozy local coffee shop while the kids are at school in order to dedicate time to finish my current novel. Hopefully it will become a habit and I can keep it up beyond November.

I only have about 5 more chapters left in my current novel, but it feels like much more. Wish me luck in trying to tackle that goal and being able to stay true to my scheduled writing times. It has felt so good to get out and write (and drink coffee) again.

So, how about you? Are you doing NaNo or another variation of it? Or, has the craziness inspired you to set another type of goal?

Don't forget to become a fan of Critter on
FaceBook by clicking here
and then hit the "become a fan" button

In other Critter news, you HAVE to HAVE to HAVE to read Angela's blog re: Critter's Halloween. He got to try on all kinds of costumes. It's Adora-sterical! (I just made that word up. I think I like it.)

Critter has made it to his last destination!

2010-10-28T15:15:00.002-04:00

Critter has made it to Canada with Angela Ackerman over at The Bookshelf Muse. This is the grand finale of his world-wide tour before he is auctioned off for St. Jude. I understand that Angela has lots of fabu-tastic stuff in store for him. Why don't you go on over to to her blog and see how Critter adjusted to Canadian life in the Ackerman home. He's very sociable. He seems to make friends wherever he goes.

And the Winner is . . . .

2010-10-26T23:42:00.003-04:00

The winner of the Sweetheart of Prosper County is . . . . .

Carol Baldwin!!!!

Congrats Carol!

Contact me at ChristyEvers (at) att (dot) net , with your snail mail address.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Also . . . . You need to clickity-click your way over to Ellen Oh's blog so you can see what Critter has been up to. He been getting into trouble with his new friend, Zombie Buddy.

Greetings: coming out of my world of ChAoS for a book give away

2010-10-20T09:39:00.004-04:00

Hello! From my world of chaos to yours. I'm coming out of hiding for a long overdue post and book giveaway. Critter has recently been to visit Jill S. Alexander in Texas. You may remember my post about Jill and our serendipitous first meeting. You can visit Jill's blog to read about his visit by clicking HERE.

In honor of Jill's Critter Hosting awesomeness I'm giving away a signed copy of her fabulous book THE SWEETHEART OF PROSEPER COUNTY. It has heart, humor and a strong character voice.

Let me tell you. . . this book is a gem. I stayed up late; laughing, crying . . . copying down snippets of her writing in my little "favorite-quote-collection-book." Most books I read will only have one or two quotes that I decide to write in my little collection book. Jill's book took up 3 pages! Her writing is just that good!

Let me give you an example: Here's a brilliant passage where the main character is describing the town Mayor. It's brilliant because she describes him by describing the people around him. You get a sense of who he is by learning about his relationships with others.

"In addition to his swanky ride, Mayor Nesmith had a money-blowing wife, four whiney rugrats, and the hots for my momma. She avoided him like poison ivy."

Let me say it again . . . Brilliant. And entertaining to boot!

You have to read the book! I believe it so much that I bought 2 copies. One for me and one for a lucky winner.

Leave a comment below for a chance to win. You can gain extra entry points for commenting on Jill's blog, linking this contest to your blog, twitter, facebook or any other sort of social media and becoming (or being) a fan of Critter on Facebook. It will be a big help if you tell me, in the comments, which of these things you have done.

The winner will be announced on Tuesday. Good luck!

Mockingjay Winners!!!!

2010-09-07T21:12:00.002-04:00

A great big, huge THNX to everyone who commented and sperad the word about Critter. I wish I had more books to give away to show my appreciation.

Since I only have two . . . it's time to announce the lucky winners.

Copy #1 goes to WordwrangerNC (Donna)

AND

Copy #2 goes to Llehn

You can contact me at ChristyEvers (at) att (dot) net with your snail mail address.

Congratulations!

2, Yes. TWO!!! Mockingjay copies giveaway!!!!

2010-09-03T00:40:00.010-04:00

Critter at the Heart and Soul Ball, SCBWI LA

OK, I know Critter has had the majority of my blog time. But it's well deserved, don't cha think?

For those of you just tuning in . . . Critter is the bad-butt (family friendly word choice aptly chosen) flat-Stanley of children's literature blogs. He has been traveling since the fall of 2009 and is currently on his final leg of his travels. When his travels are complete, he will be auctioned off for the children of St. Jude.

Just an FYI, St. Jude runs on an operating budge of 1.5 million dollars a day, funded mostly by donations. ~gasp~ Yep. Makes me feel guilty ordering my daily Starbucks. I'm hoping Critter will be able to make a good dent in at least one day of operations. I need you to help me.

So . . . I figure . . . even if you don't have a ton of money to bid on such a fabulous piece of art, we are in a era of Twitter, Face book and blogs. If you help me get the word out re: Critter and his cause perhaps we, together, can find the people/groups who have the available funds and big-heartedness to make a generous donation to Critter's cause.

So . . . please, if you've got the time please follow Critter on his destination and let others know about his cause well. You can also leave comments on the blogs of people who are hosting Critter to show your support.

Currently Critter is with Cynthia Chapman Willlis in NJ.
Next he will visit Jill S. Alexander in Texas
From there he will go to Ellen Oh in DC
The Grand Finale will be in good ol' Canada with Angela Ackerman.
(insert Rocky theme song here) then the auction.

I want to thank everyone who has supported Critter thus far. Be sure to visit my side bar to see where Critter has been in the last year. Not to mention his brilliant creator, Ian Sands and his interview with the Texas Sweethearts.

You can also become a fan of Critter on Facebook by clicking here and then clicking on the "become a fan" button.

Kids lit peopel RaWk!!!!!!

Critter says he loves you! He thinks that you're all RaWk Stars.

In order to show my appreciation for those willing to help me get the word out, I'm holding a giveaway for 2 . . . that's right TWO copies of the last book of The Hunger Games Trilogy. The recently released Mockingjay.

I will give away two copies to two people who will comment on Cynthis'a blog re: Critter, blog, tweet, face book, be a fan on face book, or use any other social media to promote Critter. You have my permission to use info or pictures on my blog to explain critter's purpose.

you gain 1 entry for each attempt you make to promote critter, so please make sure to mention them all. I want you to get all the credit that you deserve, so in the comments, let me know how you helped me promote Critter.

You have until Tuesday Sept. 7th to comment. I will announce the 2 winners on Wed. Sept 8th

Also, please leave an e-mail or a way that I can contact you.

Andy, Annie and tomatoes

2010-08-29T07:17:00.004-04:00

This was my clock. OK. Maybe not the EXACT clock. But this was my clock when I was 4 years old, maybe younger. Now someone is selling it for a ton of $$$ on e-bay. Anyway . . . when the alarm went off it said, "Andy, Andy, please wake up, it's time to start our day." (or something like that.) If there's any more to it, I don't remember.

I remember this clock because my mom was at work and my dad and brother were outside shoveling the Chicago snow. I was in the house all by myself. Sure. My dad and brother were technically "there" but in a 4 year old mind, I was in the house . . . ALONE!!!!! I remember grabbing this clock and a few tomatoes from the refrigerator and hiding under my bed.

Cartoons had taught me well. The clock told me when mom should be home. The tomatoes were to throw at an intruder. I was set!!!

I love this memory! I'm even contemplating buying this stupid clock!

Can anyone else remember their irrational childhood moments? I'd love to hear them!

A Critter-inspired Giveaway!

2010-08-27T10:28:00.004-04:00

This has been a fun blog week! Fist it started out by lil ol' me winning an ARC giveaway on PJ Hoover's blog for the book "Girl Parts" YaY! I love winning books.

And starting today . . . . Author Tina Ferraro is offering a Critter-inspired giveaway!!!

Tina is the author of "Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Prom Dress," "How to Hook a Hottie," and "ABC's of Kissing Boys" Not to mention, she's also a sweet-cutie-patootie as well.

Go on over to Tina's blog to show some luv for Tina, Critter and St. Jude, and win a chance for a free book or a 1st chapter critique from a fabulous author on top of it all!

Don't forget to become of Critter on Facebook! Click here to go to his FB fan page.

whooo hoooo!

2010-08-21T00:16:00.005-04:00

Critter and I met up with Jacqui Robbins at SCBWI LA. Here's Jacqui giving Critter some luv!

Critter has been to visit Jacqui Robbins in MI. She's starting to post about some of the Critter mayhem in her house. Plus, she called me a "cool person." I think I love Jacqui. (In a totally non-weird way, of course.) I tend to favor people who call me "cool"

anyway, Click here to see what Critter and Jacqui have been up to.

And while your waiting for Jacqui's posts, you might like to know that Critter is on his way to visit YA author, Tina Ferraro. I hear she's taking him to Vegas. whooo hooooo!

You never know who you'll meet. More SCBWI LA

2010-08-13T06:03:00.004-04:00

Remember my crazy-canceled/delayed flight from DFW to LAX? ( previous post) Well . . . there's more.

You see, at first, when I got on the original (canceled flight) I was supposed to have a window seat. I ADORE window seats (despite the bathroom dilemma) I like the view and I like having a surface to lay my head and snooze. What can I say? A moving plane is like a rocking cradle to me.

Anyway . . .

I approached my coveted window seat. I saw a man, a woman then and baby. A cute, friggin' baby sucking on a pacifier (in my seat). uggggghhhhh!!!!

"Would you mind switching seats with me?" said the man.

Crap! Now I'll be sitting in the Hell-of-all-middle-seats! "Of course. It's no problem." If only I was the angel in my thoughts like I was the angel of my words.

I would've been a heartless soul to refuse. I couldn't. The angel of words won. The angel of thoughts repeatedly stabbed the back of my eyeballs.

So. I settled in between a nice woman and a young lad several rows back. (in the middle seat)

I blew up my inflatable travel pillow. Adjusted my i-pod. (in the middle seat) Did I mention middle seat?

The nice woman next to me snapped her head in my general direction and said, "Stop it!"

Stop it?

OK. So, I wondered if maybe Critter was up to some of his Critter-tricks. He's a bit ornery, you know.

But then she says (in the most adorable Texas twang) "I'm so sorry, hon. I'm not talkin' to you. My son is traveling with me and he's pokin' me from behind."

awwwwww! She was so adorable! I wanted to pinch her cheeks! But I didn't. I have some self control, don't cha'know.

"That's funny stuff." I replied. Truly relieved that I wasn't sitting next to a stuffity'uppity window-seater, and thankful for the comedy relief. I liked this woman from the very start.

But then, the flight was canceled.

We reboarded 3 (or more) hours later.

I sat next to the nice lady with the Texas Twang once more. But that was OK, because I already liked her.

We giggled at the loud-mouth braggard sitting in the row in front of us. What can I say? We were loopy from the plane delays and flight changes. We must've been easily amused.

I liked her, even though I didn't know her. We talked, but about nothing in particular. Simply pleasant company.

Fast forward to the hotel. . . .

I'm standing in line to check into my room for the SCBWI LA conference and who do I see? It's the nice lady with the twang from the plane.

"Oh!" She said, "If I had known you were coming here, you could've shared a cab with me and my son!"

Nice! Such a nice lady. Wow! We were at the same conference. How amazing. What a small world.

Fast forward once more to the next morning:
. . . I'm sitting in the opening session of the conference. The faculty of SCBWI is introducing themselves on stage.

Who do I see introduce herself as one of the faculty authors? You guessed it!!!! The nice lady with the twang, the one who sat next to me on the plane and whispered "stop it!" in my general direction (although not directed to me)

We spoke several times throughout the conference. Her name is Jill S. Alexander (BTW) She's sweet as pie. I swear, children's literature people are the nicest people on the whole entire earth!

Consequently, I bought her book, The Sweetheart of Prospect County, and I read it in 2 nights. That's a big deal, seeing that I read it during the conference. They keep you going at conferences like this, so it was no easy feat to stay up in order to read a book. However, I read Jill's book. I laughed. I cried. I stayed up way later than I should have. As a matter of fact, I bought a book for myself and I bought an extra to use as a book giveaway, here! On my blog! Might I dub Jill as the Sweetheart of Children's Literature? She deserves it!

Prepare for a book giveaway! Not today, but in the near future.

Not only has Jill agreed to do a future interview, but she will also be a Critter host as well. Stay tuned.

More to come.

Here's a picture of Jill, Critter and her debut novel, The Sweetheart of Prospect county.

I'll blog more about the book, but for now, I have to marvel at our unique meeting. How often does that happen?

I'll tell ya . . . it made the flight delay well-worth it. If you're ever going to get stranded in an airport, Jill is the lady to get stranded with! :0)

The way things work out sometimes . . . it's amazing!

Critter saves the flight from DFW to LA!: The great SCBWI, LA adventure

2010-08-08T01:12:00.003-04:00

Our flight was early. Critter is coffee-mad. Can you imagine drinking a cup full of coffee that is 98% of your height? But critter did it. And it paid off. (Critter likes mocha) We had no idea what was about to challenge Critter's energy level.

Our connection in Dallas was delayed as a result of mechanical difficulties. Annoying and yet, I prefer delays over crashing. Crazy. I know. I'm weird that way.

Three hours, two cups of coffee, 8 1/4 cranky employees, two tram rides and three gate changes later . . . we were on our way to LA. Seriously . . . picture 150 people being herded through an airport, parting escalators Exodus-like, complaining that our time was being inconvenienced as opposed to risking our lives in a plane crash.

You might think people would be cranky during a circumstance such as that. No need to worry. Critter saved the day. He pulled his guitar out of his backpack and led the entire flight in rounds of campfire songs and bad 80's ballads and supervised line-dances.

Everyone agreed. It was the best flight they had ever taken. Some airline employees were ready to quit their jobs and join a circus. But Critter's enthusiasm reminded them of what was really important in life and dubbed it as the best work-day EVER!!!!

Yay, Critter saved the day!

Foam board is truly amazing. Isn't it?

Critter was pretty tuckered out after all of that rabble-rousing. He needed to kick back when we finally checked in. Here's a picture of Critter chillin' with his i-pod. (He likes Toby Mac)

This is Critter chillin' on our balcony.

You can become a fan of Critter on Facebook by clicking here

More Critter in LA stories to come . . . .

Critter's last days in the Virgin Islands

2010-07-21T08:08:00.004-04:00

Bish has posted pictures of Critter's last days in the Virgin Islands. Go on over to her blog and check him out by clicking here! He even got to drive a boat!

I had Bish send Critter back to me because I'm taking him to SCBWI LA next week to be my date. (shhhh! don't tell my husband.) More updates to come!

Ella's Tiger Tots Tournament 2010

2010-07-18T05:39:00.000-04:00

What summer activities inspire your imagination? I'm having the bestest summer!!!! Part 1

2010-07-18T02:03:00.013-04:00

What inspires your imagination on summer vacation?

OK, I've had 3 young children in my life for 8 years now. It's great, it's wonderful. I love being a mom. But it can also mean no time for breaks. Vacations and holidays are more work than usual. Full time moms don't get vacations. They just get more work. At least when they kids are in school, I can have a few hours to get things done around the house. When they're home . . . that just means more messes are being made for me to clean up. I can't keep up. I love being a mom. I hate the whirlwind housekeeping. I love spending time with the kids, but I hate how responsibility to do what I'm "supposed to do," gets in the way of enjoying of motherhood.

So, in the past years, summer vacation wasn't exactly a vacation for good ol' worn-out mom.

HOWEVER! This year is so much different. The kids are more independent, not as whiny, which means we can go more places and actually enjoy them (mostly) tantrum free!!!!!

So far, this has been the most enjoyable summer that I've had in a long, long while. I must add, since this is a writing blog, writing IS related to my bestest summer in a long long time. You see, I find that my creativity is spurred by new experiences along with being able to mentally digest them. I've been able to do that this summer. whoooo hoooooo! New things! Time to think! *insert happy giggles here*

There's stories, stories everywhere! I've done and seen several things this summer that have inspired my imagination. I'm sharing them here because I know my dear, sweet blogger friends will understand. You guys are great!!!!

Here we go! But this is just one summer-fun-thing. More is to come.

The lighthouse in the background is on Cape Look Out, NC. My oldest daughter learned about the lighthouses in NC ( our home state) in school this past year, so we surprised her by taking her to see her favorite. (she hugged us when she realized where we were! Good parent points acquired.) It's a remote island. Hardly anything is there. Just a light house, keepers quarters that doubles as a museum and walkways to allow visitors to walk among the island w/o disturbing it's natural surroundings. There are no restaurants, no shops. Only park rangers and visitors who come by boat. Guests are told to collect their own trash, since there is no trash pick up. Boaters anchor on the sound side of the island. There were at least a dozen private boats idle on the waters when we arrived.

Our ferry captain instructed us to remove our shoes in order to disembark in the 5 inches of water to get to shore. It depends on who you are. Maybe that sounds like a nightmare to some. To me . . . it was awesome!!!! I love getting away from the tourism, the cookie cutter money pits. Something more natural. Give me sand in my toes, even in my hair! Let me not care if I have make up on! yippeeeeee! FREEEEEEEEDOM!!!!!!!

Anyway . . . the picture above is my youngest daughter holding a conch shell that I found while swimming off the coast of Cape Lookout. I've never found a complete shell of this size anywhere! EVER! I was so excited! Once I found it, it was like a drug. I was determined to go back in the water and find at least 2 others (so each kid could have one) Unfortunately, after thinking I found another shell, only to have it pinch me on my little toe (it was really a crab) Owie! I kept searching. But when the rip tide started to pull me in, plus time for the ferry back to the mainland grew closer . . . I had to concede. One shell was all I could have (for now) But I was happy. Mark this as a highlight of my trip. But one day I'm going back to Cape Lookout, just so I can find more conch shells. :0) No kidding. You have no idea how many shells I collected as a kid. None even close to the size of this mack-daddy! I want (need) to go back. Large shells will be mine! Mine I say! Mwa-haaaa-haaaa-haaa-haaa!

This is my family standing in front of the "ferry" that we took to Cape Lookout. Can a 13 passenger boat really be called a ferry? I'm thinking it should really be called a "cash cow"

See the horses in the background? Those are wild horses on Shackleford Island. Those are Spanish horses whose ancestors were shipwrecked in the 1500's and have survived on the island ever since. Our Ferry captain, Captain Calico Jack, made sure to drive us close to the horses before taking us to shore on Cape Lookout. Thank You Calico Jack. Thank you for not just being concerned about time and schedules. Thank you for diverting from your route so we could have a memory! I've never seen wild horses in their element before. What a story! Surviving remnants from a shipwreck in the 1500's. How have the horses been able to survive? What happened to the people who were transporting them? Stories . . . stories . . . everywhere. I want to know! I guess I'll have to go back for research sometime too. Not just conch shells.

There's been so much, this summer. But it's too much to share in one blog.

Thanks for reading about one of my great summer memories. Now let me hear about yours.

I want to know. What summer activities have inspired your imagination? Past or present.

Picture of Critter are up!

2010-06-30T12:29:00.001-04:00

Bish just put up picture of Critter on her blog! Go check'em out and be sure to leave a reply to let her know that you stopped by! Just click here.

What do you say to an agent or editor when you don't have credentials?

2010-06-27T02:48:00.004-04:00

First of all . . . we must have our priorities. Critter is in the Virgin Islands. He's traveling for the sake of St. Jude, so please follow him during his travels and let others know about Critter's cause. He'll be auctioned for St. Jude when his adventures are complete. Did you know that St. Jude operates mostly on donations alone. And that their DAILY operating costs are 1.5 million dollars per day!!!!! Yowza Yikesers!!!! So . . . spread the word about Critter and his cause so that we may be more likely to reach those who have the heart plus the resources to help the children of St. Jude.

In other writerly news . . . this is an awesome blog re: what to include in a query if you lack credentials. http://askaliteraryagent.blogspot.com/

Critter is this weeks Featured Sweetheart!

2010-06-02T11:34:00.004-04:00

Critter was interviews by authors PJ Hoover, Jo Whittemore and Jessica Lee Anderson on the Texas Sweethearts blog. Go, Critter, Go!

He was also featured over at Cynsations, on Cynthia Leitich Smith's blog.

In other news, I haven't been blogging much or visiting blogs much for a really really good reason. I've had a request for a full manuscript and I've been working hard at tightening it up once more before sending it out. Wish me luck! :0)

Doing the Happy Dance!

2010-05-10T13:06:00.002-04:00

I will temporarily cease doing my happy, arm-waving, boo-tay-shaking dance (the kind that would embarrass my kids) so that I may share my exciting news.

For Mother's Day, My hubby told me that I was going to SCBWI LA summer conference. ~squee!~
I must confess, I hadn't asked to go. Quite honestly I never thought that I could justify the expense when I didn't have a published book yet.

But do you want to know what my darling man said to me? (this is more a gift than the conference expenses.)

He said that I am talented and as long as I'm persistent, I will be published. He said that I needed to live as if I were already published. Not just with consistent writing times, but by going to conferences and doing things that I would do if I were already published. I must add, that my hubby doesn't let go of family $$$$ easily unless it's justified. It took him 3 years to decide if it was worth the money to buy an ipod. True story. So, if he didn't really believe in me, he wouldn't so easily send me out to LA for 5 days.

I gotta say, it feels good to have someone believe in me that much.

Consequently, I also feel more motivated to keep going, because I don't want to disappoint. :0)

Give me a holla if you're going to be there. We'll have to meet up and have coffee and chat.

Now, if you will excuse me I have more bootie-shaking-happy-dancing to do. Oh, and I have more writing to do too. :0D

Jennifer Rees, editor at Scholastic, talks about "Voice"

2010-04-27T14:15:00.013-04:00

SCBWI Chapel Hill Writing Retrea

Numero uno: Jennifer Rees is an top-notch, classy editor.

Numero two-ish: Jennifer Rees is cute as a button . . . isn't she?

Numero Three-o: She also has an AWESOME pair of boots! The girl has it ALL! Brains. Style. Cutie-pie-ness . . . is there anything more?

Editors and agents stress the importance of "voice" in a manuscript. Writers strive to find their "voice" and yet there are no easy definitions for this monster they call VOICE. I love listening to different professionals in the industry share their thoughts on what "Voice" is. After years of listening and digesting this info, I think I'm finally starting to catch on. No. I don't have a clear and easy definition. However, I will share the basic 10 points that Ms. Rees mentioned as being the elements that influence your voice.

1) Character
2) Manner of Expression
3) Narrator
4) Dialogue
5) Setting
6) Perspective
7) Tone
8) Genre
9) You
10) Story

In attempt to digest the things Ms. Rees said about each of the 10 elements, I came home and tried to find a small section of a book that I thought embodied all 10 elements. It's not that easy to do. There are some books that are easy to hear voice. Books like Savvy and Dovey Coe. I wanted to find a section that wasn't quite as colloquial. One where the voice doesn't come from accent or regional flare. Finally, I settled on The Hunger Games. I thought it fitting since Ms. Rees was the editor for this book. Here's a short scene that I love and see as including all of the above influences.

This is a scene from Chapter 5 when Katnis first meets with her prep team for her makeover.

Venia and Octavia, a plump woman whose entire body has been dyed a pale shade of pea green, rub me down with a lotion that stings but then soothes my raw skin. Then they pull me from the table, removing the thin robe I've been allowed to wear off and on. I stand there, completely naked, as the three circle me, wielding tweezers to remove any last bits of hair. I know I should be embarrassed, but they're so unlike people that I'm no more self-conscious than if a trio of oddly colored birds were pecking around my feet.

The three step back and admire their work. "Excellent! You almost look like a human being now!" Says
Flavius and they all laugh.

I force my lips up into a smile to show how grateful I am. "Thank you," I say sweetly. "We don't have much cause to look nice in District Twelve."

This wins them over completely. "Of course, you don't you poor darling!" Says Octavia clasping her hands together in distress for me.

"But don't worry," says Venia. "By the time Cinna is through with you, you're going to be absolutely gorgeous!"

"We promise! You know, now that we've gotten ride of all the hair and filthy, you're not horrible at all!" Says Flavius encouragingly. "Let's call Cinna!"

They dart out of the room. It's hard to hate my prep team. They're such total idiots, Ad yet, in an odd way I know that they're sincerely trying to help me.

So, How does this one section envelope all 10 elements?

First I see how the Characters, their perspectives of each other, the manner in which they speak, their actions, the setting the tone they use w/ one another . . . it all blends together making this scene vivid in my minds eye. The tension. The contrast of how each side sees the other as barely being human at all. We are in the narrators head, so we know what she is thinking, however, we don't have to be in the Prep teams thoughts to get an idea of how they think and feel. Their actions and dialogue are clear. Though we see human flaws in each of the characters we also see glimpses of good intentions.

Second, the genre and Suzanne Collins unique story line and her story telling skills all add to the flavor of the voice.

So, make a mental note: editors don't see voice as simply being an accent. That may be only one part of your voice, if it fits the story.

INSIDER INFO ALERT!!!!: Ms. Rees shared a little info about the earlier MS of The Hunger Games. She said that at first the story was written in past tense. However, that didn't seem to work. It tended to cut down on the tension which is so crucial to the story line. So, Ms. Collins rewrote the story in present tense and Voila! That goes to show . . . don't be afraid to rewrite in a different tense. You never know what will work best until you try.

If you have anything to add to share how you view the "voice" in this section, I'd love to hear it. I'd also love to hear any insights on what you think about "voice" outside of this section as well. It's a wild beast to master!

REfreshed, REfueled, REtreated!

2010-04-21T23:23:00.003-04:00

Uh-huh, oh yeah! That's right! I'm a new girl now. My writing confidence has been lower than a tick on the belly of a worm. But this weekend . . . Well, let's just say that I'm still flying high from being refreshed and refueled. It also doesn't hurt that Jennifer Rees, (the editor of The Hunger Games) critiqued my work and had very nice things to say about it. Things that will keep me going for quite some time.

The guest speakers in attendance were: Jennifer Rees from scholastic, Bruce Hale, Author of the Chet Gecko series among other books, and Stacy Cantor from Walker books.

It was an amazing retreat, restful and yet productive. Pure nerve-soothing, confidence-boosting fabulousness.

As I digest the things that I learned, I'll post about them here. So many great things. Enough to possibly give me blogging material for the rest of the year! In addition to Critter postings, of course.

Critter in his element!

2010-04-19T00:47:00.004-04:00

I'm so stoked! Rena took Critter on an awesome outting!

Check it out at Rena's blog.

YaY, Critter!

Creative summer challenge: Embrace your inner Zonkey

2010-04-14T14:46:00.005-04:00

Here's my challenge to you for the summer. Just m@ke art! You gotta check out Zonkey Street.com. It's a site, developed by Critter's creator, Ian Sands. His philosophy is that art is for everyone and need not be only the stuff you see hanging in a gallery. Art should be fun and enjoyed by all.

Here's the way Ian describes it:

"What is Zonkey Art?

Zonkey Art is any art that is public, collaborative and interactive.

Public: Art can be for everybody, not limited to a few people who enter the doors of a gallery. Zonkey art is accessible to anyone.

Collaborative: An artist doesn't have to work alone. Art can be created in pairs, or by small teams or even in large groups.

Interactive: Art doesn't have to be static. Anyone who comes in contact with Zonkey art should be able to add, subtract, move, share, comment, give, take, build, destroy, help, arrange or interact in some way.

Art for Everyone
By Anyone

Have you gotten involved? Create Zonkey Art and post it on
The Art of Zonkey Street Facebook Page!

So . . . you should do this! It's fun! And for writers, it can boost your creativity and help you find your muse. Check out Zonkey Street.com for idea's. (Critter is one of the featured Zonkey projects on the web-site!) But feel free to create your own idea.

Come on! I'm a Zonkey, he's a Zonkey . . . wouldn't you like to be a Zonkey too?

Winner! Winner!

2010-04-07T09:40:00.003-04:00

And now, the lucky winners (insert drum roll, disco ball and yodeling monkey here.)

The winner of 10 Ways to Make my Sister Disappear is

Linda Anderson!

The winner of Prada and Prejudice is

Cassandra!

Congratulations. I will contact you via the e-mail addresses that you gave on the entry form.

Yay!!!

It's a 2 book giveaway!

2010-04-01T14:41:00.005-04:00

I'm Spring-giddy. The trees are budding, the air is warm, Critter is gaining lots of friends on Facebook and I feeling like giving books away. I have this mental image of me in a white cotton dress, skipping through the forest with a basket full of . . . not flower petals . . . . BOOKS! As I whistle a tune I toss books in the air for all those around me to enjoy.

Back to reality. I'm in my office wearing yoga pants and a t-shirt, I'm sitting on a bed (yes, I have a bed in my office instead of a desk. Gotta problem with that?) and I have a blog instead of a basket. This is as close as it gets.

The books in my spring basket:

Prada and Prejudice, by Mandy Hubbard and Ten Ways to Make My Sister Disappear, by Norma Fox Mazer, were both part of the book pack that I won from Christina Farley. I hate to just let a couple good books collect dust on my shelf, so I'm sharing the love with you.

I'll choose a random winner Next week on Wed. So be sure to come back and see if you are one of the two winners.

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Critter's Big Announcement, revealed!

2010-03-24T11:30:00.003-04:00

Critter feels that it is now time to reveal his purpose in life. He doesn't want to return to NC to sit at my desk. He's experienced too much. Met so many great people and done so many fabulous things. His little painted eyes have been opened to the perils of this world and he wants to give a little something back. He has decided that after his 18th visit, he will return to NC as planned, but instead of being my desk mascot, he'd rather be auctioned off and the entire winning bid will go to the children at St. Jude.

And that's not all. Critter now has a fanpage on facebook! Please join his fanpage and cheer Critter along.

A little background info re: Critter:

Critter fancies himself to be the mascot of Children's Lit Bloggers. He has visited several Children's authors, illustrators and writers such as: (also listed on my sidebar)

Texas with author PJ Hoover
NC with debut novelist Beth Revis
South Korea with writer Christian Farley
New England with writer Nandini Bajpai
Chicago with writer Kelly Pollark
California with illustrator MG Higgins
Montana with PB author, Rena Jones

Critter has 8 more visits to go. When he returns to me, he will be auctioned off. The full amount of the highest bid will be donated to St. Jude.

I estimate that Critter will return in the Fall of 2010. Until then, we need to get as many people aware of Critter and his cause for St. Jude. The only way to do that is to get as many people to follow Critter's adventures as possible.

Here's how you can help:

1) Follow Critter's Adventures and blog, tweet or FB about Critter.

2) Offer your blog to host a Critter visit.

3) Suggest this fan page to your friends.

shhhhh! This post is top secret! Read at your own peril!

2010-03-17T19:17:00.002-04:00

Listen very carefully. This is important. The world as you know it could be at stake depending on how you answer these questions.
1) Do you think that having a talent for breaking things could quite possibly be the best talent ever known to man?

2) Would you risk your life to rescue a bag of sand?

3) Do you think a sword is more high-tech than a gun?

If you answered "NO" to any or all of these questions, I have bad news for you. You are under the control of the Evil Librarians. If you want to know the truth about how your world is under the control of the Evil Librarians, then you must read the memoirs of Alcatraz Smedry. This information is only available because his story is being published as fiction under the title Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians. Alcatraz has been forced to use the pseudonym Brandon Sanderson.

Hurry, read the book before the Evil Librarians discover what this book is REALLY about and all the copies will be pulled off the shelves and destroyed! Hurry! Before it's too late.

The Adventures of Critter Continue (insert dramatic music here)

2010-03-15T12:40:00.003-04:00

Critter is going to the Land of Critters to visit the Queen of Critters. Who is that and where is that? You ask. Why. . . None other than Montana to visit the home and blog of Rena Jones the author of Lemur Troops and Critter groups.

Critter is going to have sooooo much fun!

Thanks again to MG for being a fabulous Critter host.

It's time for Critter to move on.

2010-03-11T12:01:00.003-05:00

It is now time for Critter to find a new home. Go on over to MG Higgins blog to have a chance for Critter to visit. You. There are still 8 more slots open for Critter's adventures. I can't wait to see where he goes next! :0)

P.S. Today is MG's Birthday, and Critter made her a cake. Isn't he a sweetie? Be sure to give her some B-day wishes.

Critters, Critters everywhere!

In other Critter news, Rena Jones is hosting a book give away on her blog for her book Lemur Troops & Critter Groups. Check out her blog and see how you can win a copy.

Critter's last CA adventure!

2010-03-09T12:44:00.002-05:00

MG Higgins showed Critter a great time in CA. You need to stop by MG's blog to see all of the pictures and hear about their adventures together. Also, MG will post details about how to enter yourself to be Critters next destination host. He still has several stops left! Go Critter Go!

Critter is Livin' the life in CA!

2010-03-04T22:37:00.003-05:00

He saw the coast, visited the site of a Jurassic Park stampede. Has an awesome valise!
MG Higgins has been showing Critter a the good life in CA!

Please keep following Critter and let his travels be known, because it's in the works that he'll be traveling for a good cause. The more people know about him, the more valuable he'll be for his end purpose.

Go Critter Go! Even though you're a tad bit precocious.

Dear blog comment-spammers

2010-02-23T15:41:00.002-05:00

Dear blog comment-spammers,

You have forced me to have to screen all replies before they are posted. (thumbs in my ears, fingers wiggling and tongue out blowing a big fat raspberry at you!)

My apologies to all my blog buddies that don't need screening.

Critter is going to California!

2010-02-18T11:15:00.003-05:00

It looks like Critter is on his way to sunny California. I wish I could go with him! He'll visit with MG Higgins! I can't wait to see what they'll be up to! :0)

Will you be the next host for Critter?

2010-02-18T00:18:00.007-05:00

It's time for Critter to move from Illinois to somewhere new. Critter has all kinds of interests. Rural farms, City life . . . he loves it all! United States, International . . . All he really wants is for someone to want him, take pictures and blog. (he's a bit co-dependant. Love is all he needs. He's a Beatles fan. What can I say). He will love anywhere that he can travel. Vistit Kelly's blog, where Critter rocked back stage with a band, went sledding and fate saved him from hungry dinosaurs and Critter eating spiders by the skin of his fangs!

We're also working a possible humanitarian efforts for Critter upon his return. If this works out . . . we'll need the help of every possible Children's lit bloggers that we can whip up.

For now; blog, twitter and facebook about Critter's travels. Eventually, he'll be up to a greater good (possibly auctioned for) Saint Jude, Haiti, homeless?. The more that know about him, the better. We just have to work it out the final details.

More to come!

My article in the Carolina Parent Baby Guide. YaY!

2010-02-08T21:03:00.003-05:00

Hey look! Click here to view my article in the 2010 Carolina Parent Baby Guide, Baby Basics on a Budget. You'll have to flip over to page 17, I'm not able to link the article directly.

And the winner is . . . . . (plus a Critter siting!)

2010-02-04T14:25:00.003-05:00

First, it's time to announce the winner of the book giveaway. And the winner of I'd Tell You That I Love You but Then I'd Have to Kill you by Ally Carter is . . . .

Bish!

Please send me an e-mail and give me your snail mail info. Congratulations!

Critter has been rockin' the house with Kelly in Illinios. By the looks of this picture, it seems as if he's getting some back stage privileges. Lucky Critter! Stop by Kelly's blog and say "HI!" Keep an eye out for the other adventures that he'll take with Kelly and sign up to be Critters next host when it's time for him to move on.

Rock on Critter!!!!

It's time for a Book Giveaway!

2010-02-01T10:48:00.002-05:00

Last month I entered a book give away over at the generous Christina Farley's blog. This wasn't just an ordinary book giveaway. It was a MEGA book giveaway. I didn't just win A book. I won a pack of books! ~it still makes me giddy. Squeal!~

So, when I received the package, I did what I always do when I have a stack of books and am not sure which to read first. I played the role of editor/agent and gave them all the "First Page" test. I read the first page of each book and the one that intrigued me the most, would be the winner. I was surprised at which one tickled me fancy the most. I was surprised because the cover threw me off. The cover made me think that this was just another snotty prep-school story. It's not! And yet, it's the perfect cover because the story takes place at the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women. To everyone else, it looks like a regular snotty prep school.
But the students know that there's nothing regular about a school where you can get extra credit for mixing lethal poison concoctions, vending machines pop open to reveal secret passageways and Covert Operations is a standard class. Cammie Morgan is a student at a secret spy school. But when she goes into town and falls head over heals for a normal guy who things she's just a regular girl. Cammie can't let him know the truth about her, however, she finds that it's much easier to be a spy than to pretend to be a normal girl.

This was such a fun book! Told in a first person, witty voice. The first page wasn't misleading, the rest of the book did not disappoint.

And now . . . It's time to share the wealth. Now that I've finished this book, I'm passing it onto one of my lucky readers. Simply leave a reply in the comments section. For additional chances to win, let me know if you tweet, blog or facebook about this contest. (you get an entry for each one). Also, if you become a follower of this blog or are already a follower of this blog, you will gain another entry in the contest.

Please leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of I'D TELL YOU I LOVE YOU, BUT THEN I'D HAVE TO KILL YOU.

I'll draw the name of a winner on Thursday. :0)

Critter has found his Lucky Valentine in Illinois!!!

2010-01-26T13:36:00.005-05:00

I'm an Illinois girl born and bred, not to mentioin, Kelly has been following Critter and Cheering him on since the very beginning, so I'm thrilled that Kelly and her family will get to be Critter's sweet Valentine. :0) Knowing Kelly, there may even be some sort of a concert involved. He may also return with his toe nails painted black. :0)

Don't give up on a Critter visit. He still has 9 more locations to visit before he returns to me. I'd love for him to visit places like Australia, Montana, Michigan, California, the Virgin Islands, heck, Anywhere! I love seeing where all the bloggers are from and where they take Critter.

And a great big THANKS once again to Nandini, for being such a fabulous host for Critter!

Critter Traveling for a Cause?

But here's something I would like some feedback on. You see, Critter has had tons of fun on his journey, and yet his eyes have been opened as well. He's become a more aware and enlightened Critter. At first, Critter expected to return to me from his journey, only to reture as my office mascot. However, since the Haiti disaster, he has realized that perhaps his travels might be put to a better use. He's wondering if, perhaps, when he returns to me, that I should auction him off to give to a charity to be determined (such as Haiti relief, or whatever might be more pressing at the time.) His travels could be like an awareness campaign and then when he returns, I can auction him off and the highest bid would be made to the American Red Cross or some other reputable institution for whatever cause we decide on.

I've never done anything like this before. It may take Critter a year to return, so there's time to decide. I would need help from all my blogger and Childrens Lit. friend to spread the word about Critter and his humanitarian efforts and build up awareness for potential bidders. What do you think? Any thoughts, ideas? advice?

Critter is Looking for his Sweet Valentine

2010-01-23T21:59:00.003-05:00

Will you be Critter's Valentine? Nandini is taking requests for a Critter visit. Be sure to hurry on over because the drawing will be on Tuesday January 26th. (the day after my birthday. If you'd like to send a cake, please send via e-mail. I have a cyber cake'o bake'o-maker, so I'll receive said spoils in tact, minus all calories.)

So, what are you waiting for? Go to Nandini's blog and sign up. I'd love to see where Critter will go next!!!!!

Critter at the ALA midwinter conference

2010-01-16T21:44:00.004-05:00

From what I undertand, THE Marissa Doyle is holding Critter. Swoon Seriously, Author-struck is way better than Star-struck. . . because authors are WAY MORE AWESOME!

Critter is living the writers life. Going places, meeting other writers and authors . . . .I hope that when he returns to me, he'll share all of his fabulous stories and inspire me to write some amazing stories!

Check out Nandini's blog to see more pictures.

Also, lets not forget Critter's creator, Ian Sands and his art students. If it weren't for them I wouldn't have been inspired by their interactive art projects and there wouldn't be a Critter traveling through blogland. :0)

A great start to a new year of reading . . . . and a Critter update

2010-01-10T19:10:00.006-05:00

sooo . . . .some things in this year have started off a little grumble-fuzzley, but my year of reading has started off GREAT!!!!!

See. That's what I love about books and reading. Other things can be going all wonky in your life, but you can pick up a good book and "voila!" You've got something good to hang onto and even be happy about. Aren't books wonderful?

Anyway, the year starts by lil' ol' me winning a pack of books from Christina Farley's mega-generous book giveaway. Yeah! And to celebrate her generosity, I plan on giving away the books that I receive once I have finished them, so stay tuned. You may still get to share in the book give-away luv too.

Then . . . The first book that I completed in 2010 was "The Lightening Thief" by Rick Riordan. Wow! What a fun book. I could tell he had fun creating it. What a fun way to play with Greek Mythology!!!! When I finished this book it made me think about how thoughts and well-placed words are like an elaborate Tinker-Toy set or Leggo's or something like that. Mr. Riordan had all these Mythological creatures to play with, and he brought them into the modern world and took all those parts to create something fun and new. "The Lightening Thief" isn't just a book. It is Rick Riordan's playground and he's letting us play along too. So much fun!

The second book that I read was a debut novel by Pam Bachorz, titled "Candor" It came out in late 2009 and I would say this is a book to put high on your To-Be-Read-Pile.

If I were to describe this YA novel in 4 words it would be: "Stepford Wives meets Pleasantville"

A grieved father created a picture-perfect town where all kids mysteriously begin to change their rebellious ways soon after their arrival. He has no idea that his only living son knows the truth; the people of Candor are being brainwashed by hidden messages. The founder's son has created a way to avoid the messages that seek to dominate his mind and he has made it his business to help the newcomers escape before it's too late. But when Nia, the most recent newcomer to Candor, arrives, he can't decide if he should help her escape because if she leaves, that would mean losing her forever. He's living a fine line between deceit and truth.

I finished this book in less than 24 hours. It's a flashlight-worthy page-turner. on a scale from 1-5 I would give it a 4. The only reason I wouldn't give it a 5 is because I wasn't fully satisfied withe the ending. I would have liked a little more resolution regarding Nia. I won't explain anymore, because I don't want to spoil any of the book for you. This book is best read without knowing the spoilers.

Way to go Pam Bachorz, for a fabulous debut novel. And thanks for a great read!

And . . . for even more exciting news, there has been a Critter siting. He is now in New England where he has hung on a Christmas tree, played in the snow and it has been discovered that he curiously looks like the Avatar charaters as well as Indian Na'vi art. hmmmmm . . . . is Critter a mystical creature as well?

You must visit Nandini's blog to see what Critter is up to. Be sure to leave Nandini a message and say "Hello!"

Isn't it sweet how Critter brings folks together. I'm feeling all warm and mushy inside.

What defines your year?

2009-12-30T22:09:00.003-05:00

My life goes beyond writing and reading . . . but since this is a writing/reading/creativity blog, I'm going to define my reading life by authors. Sound weird? It might. I read a lot of books and I've noticed a trend. In 2007 I read Lois Lowery for the first time (as an adult) and I gobbled up all her books that year. In 2008 I devoured all of Eva Ibbotsons books. In 2009, I discovered Neal Shusterman for the very first time and read every book that I could get my hands on that he had written. There may be a couple more that I need to read, but I've read pert' near all ov'em!

It makes me wonder what author I'll discover or rediscover in 2010. Any suggestions? I'm up for it!

Consequently, I didn't reach the "50 books in a year" challenge, but I had fun trying. :0)

Also, I want to appologize for not being more involved w/ my blog friends at the end of this year. Along w/ my kids going all all different directions since school started and my current writing rut, I've had less time for blog interaction. I'm going to go visit blogs right now to make up for it.

Happy New Year, and Happy reading!

Books, books and more books! Here's a link to a giveaway!

2009-12-25T23:46:00.002-05:00

OK, not only was Christina Farley an awesome host for Critter, but she's also a very generous gal. She's hosting a massive book giveaway. Go to her blog NOW to enter! Clickety-click right here!

I'm drooling all over this giveaway! Wowza!

Critter's new Destination!

2009-12-22T11:17:00.004-05:00

YaY! Christina Farley has chosen a new destination for Critter. He's going to visit Nandini in New England!

Stay posted for Critter's new adventures in New England.

Would you like Critter to come visit you?

2009-12-14T14:12:00.002-05:00

It's time for Critter to leave Korea. Would you like him to come visit you? Christina Farley will be choosing a new location for Critter on Wed. so head on over to her blog, leave a message and maybe Critter will come to visit you next!

Good luck!

Critter is in Korea!!!!

2009-12-11T12:24:00.003-05:00

I'm so dang giddy! Critter is in Korea with Christina Farley and he's being treated like royalty. They made him a little outfit, took him shopping and he went to visit a historic Palace in Seoul. Is it normal to feel jealous of a piece of painted foam board? This is one lucky piece of art.

YOuv'e got to check out Christina's posts!

Also, don't forget to check out Critter's creator, Ian Sands.

ohhhhhh! BOOK GIVE-A-WAY!!!! YaY~

2009-12-05T23:43:00.002-05:00

For a great book giveaway, check out Tabitha's blog right here!

You gotta luv people who give away books! you go girl!

Give the gift of Telekinesis at Christmas this year. Really!

2009-11-18T14:48:00.005-05:00

immage from www.hammacher.com

I'm not kidding. There is a telekinetic obstacle course for sale Click here to watch the video.

This may be the coolest gift EVER! I'm amazed. Gosh~ what's next? I'll be the first in line for a telekinetic vacuum and mop! Or . . . even better yet, a telekinetic Litter-box cleaner!

2009-11-12T23:17:00.000-05:00

Starbucks and disgruntled dogs . . . Crazy momma say wha??

2009-10-26T22:30:00.005-04:00

I interrupt this writerly rut for a creative moment: (dot, dot, dot, dot-de-dot, dot, dot.)

I normally go to the gym for an hour, after I drop the kids off at school. Today, however, was a perfect fall day. Sun: warm, but not hot, the leaves drifting aslant in the wind, at my favorite park. A prefect calm lake surrounded by calico leaves, dancing in the sky as well as dotting the path.

I passed up my usual water bottle for a Starbucks Vanilla Latte. Walking around a calm lake on a perfect autumn day . . . sipping my favorite latte . . . bliss! A surreal moment. A time to remember that life can be beautiful, despite the destruction all around us.

On to my point . . .

I was walking behind a woman who was walking a pure white yorkie. A beautiful dog. So cute. But he was looking at me, standing on his hind legs like a mini grizzly bear, and making a . . . I don't know what kind of sound. Half growl/ have whine. I'm not sure. I looked behind me, thinking another dog-walking person was behind me, attracting the attention of this yorkie. There was no one. Just me. The yorkie, hind-legging and unknown-noise-making at me. But why? I was just walking. Other dogs walked by the Yorkie. He just sniffed . . . and walked by. Regular dog stuff.

So, then the dog walker stepped by the wayside so that I could pass. As I did, she said (in th most fabulous British accent.), "It's the coffee cup."

All I could respond was, "Oh, is that what it was?" And laughed.

I wish I could have asked more. Why the coffee cup? But that would have been cruel to keep the dog in his over-active/alert state. So I moved on. Leaving me to ponder why a dog would care about a coffee cup. Was he angered? Amused? I had no idea. I spent the rest of my 2 mile hike wondering about the psyche of this dog. What caused him to react to my coffee cup?

If you know a reasonable answer.. . . I'd love to know. I'm perplexed.

However .. . I"m a writer at heart and I'd love to hear some creative answers. Why would a dog react to a coffee cup in such an animated way?

Had he once tasted the spilled spoils at a local Starbucks hangout . . . only to become addicted?

Was he raised in a poor litter . . . where they only chewed empty coffee cups instead of bones?

Does a coffee cup resemble an alien space phone and he's dying to call back to his canine race?

Are there zones in this park where animals go wonky when they enter it, leaving them crazed and delirious?

You tell me. Real life, or pure imagination. . . . what could cause a dog to act this way?

hmmmm . . . . . .

Critter is going to Korea!!! Plus, a Shout out for PJ!

2009-10-20T23:09:00.003-04:00

I've got to give a bug "hurrah" to Beth Revis. When I started this Critter in Blogland thing, I had small hopes that Critter would go international. If he did, I thought the furthest would be Canada. But Beth is willing to flip the bill for Critter's trip to to Korea. Gam-sa Ham-nee-da, Beth. That will be Critter's new way of saying "Thank-you" when he gets home from his oversea's travels. This is so cool! His host is Korea is Christina Farley. I can't wait to see where he'll get to go!

I also want to give a great big shout out to PJ Hoover. Her latest book, The Navel of The World, is now out! Go out and buy a copy! I'm sure you'll be glad you did. I can't wait to get mine!

It's time for Critter to find a new vacation spot

2009-10-06T10:39:00.001-04:00

Head on over to Beth's blog. See some great pictures of Critter at the Biltmore Castle and tell Beth where you would take Critter if he came to see you.

Critter Siting!

2009-09-27T13:56:00.003-04:00

There's some great pictures of Critter over at Beth blog! You've got to go see what he's been up to!

And the Winners are . . . . .

2009-09-23T21:08:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to 3 lucky winners!

The winner for th copy of The Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Promdress is . . . . . Solvang Sherrie!

The winner of the 1st copy of The ABC's of Kissing Boys is . . . . Terry Lynn Johnson!!!

And the 2nd copy of The ABC's of Kissing Boys goes to . . . . Janelle!!!!

YaY!

Congratulations folks! Just e-mail me at christyevers (at) ATT (dot) net with your mailing address.

Thanks for playing along everyone! I hope to have another give away soon.

Author, Tina Ferraro Talks about "Voice": Plus, a 3 book giveaway!

2009-09-21T08:38:00.004-04:00

Today's Special guest blogger is Tina Ferraro. Not only is she talented at creating a strong character "voice", she's also generous. When I told her that I was going to give away a copy of The ABC's of Kissing Boys along with her interview, she offered to give away two books as well; another copy of The ABC's of Kissing Boys and one copy of The Top Ten Uses for an Unworn Promdress. So, if you leave a comment below there will be 3 winners drawn on Wednesday. You can also have extra chances to win if you post this giveaway on your blog, Twitter or Facebook and if you follow this blog. You receive an extra entry for each thing that you do. Make sure you let me know in the comments so that I can give you the correct amount of chances to win in my tupper-ware-bowl of winningness.

The thing that I love so much about Tina's characters is that they are relatable, strong and funny. So, I asked Tina a few questions about "Voice." Here's what she has to say:

1) How do you define "voice"?

Well, let me start by saying I often have two streams of thought running in my head. What I say and what I think. For instance, a lady is holding up the supermarket line, trying to find all her coupons. She turns and apologizes. I would smile and say, "No problem, I love using coupons, too," while I am thinking, "Lady, for crying out loud, get organized! I've been standing here for so long I think I celebrated a birthday."

Voice, to me, is what I'd think--not what I'd say. Doesn't have to be funny, but it generally hits higher highs and lower lows than a person's normal life.

2) How and why is "voice" crucial in a manuscript?

I think it's make-or-break critical to have voice. For instance, anyone could tell the story of a southern plantation on the verge of the Civil War, but only Margaret Mitchell delivered Scarlett O'Hara and her "fiddle-de-de" that was at once irritating and oddly endearing.

3) What have you done that has attributed to your strong sense of voice? (Classes? Advice? Workshops, etc.)

The most important thing that I found in establishing voice is letting go of my natural inhibitions. When I was writing TOP TEN USES FOR AN UNWORN PROM DRESS and got to the first scene where Nicolette was dancing alone in her bedroom in her dress, I was so embarrassed for us (Nic and me) that I about dove under the desk. I felt like I'd just exposed our rawest side to the world. Later, I got more compliments on that scene than any other.

4) When writing The ABC's of Kissing Boys, how were you able to maintain a consistent voice through out the entire book?

Well, whenever I felt unsure of the story or voice (which was often), I went back and re-read earlier scenes. Then I then grabbed Parker's hand and we jumped back in...

5) What advice would you give to aspiring authors so that they can improve their literary voice?

Take a good look at yourself and see what pushes your buttons, what is going to take you and your readers to entertaining places. While you don't have to write your life (I surely don't), try to twist fiction with fantasy. For instance, in THE ABC'S OF KISSING BOYS, Parker worried that she was a bad kisser...and while it's been a long time since I've had that concern, I continue to be a queen of performance doubt, so I could easily relate to that fear.

6) What is your favorite "voice" book(s)?

Oh, so many! But here's few that I recently read include THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIAN by Sherman Alexie, GOOD ENOUGH by Paula Yoo, and SOPHOMORE UNDERCOVER by Ben Esch.

Thank you, Tina, for thoughts on VOICE!

Now, go ahead and
*leave a comment
*tweet this contest
*mention this contest on your blog and/or Facebook
*Become a follower of this blog.

And then I'll choose 3 winners on Wednesday.
Thanks for stopping by.

Something Fabtabulous Planned for Monday!!!!

2009-09-18T22:55:00.003-04:00

Just want to give you a heads up for what is coming up on Monday. I don't want you to miss it. I'm going to post an interview with Author, Tina Ferraro and what she has to say about what literary "voice" is and its importance in a manuscript.

But that's not all. There's going to be a 3 book giveaway for those of you who leave a comment. That right! count'em 1 . . . 2 . . . 3!

So that improves your chances of winning.
Be sure to come back on Monday!

Critter has Castles and Mountains in his future

2009-09-13T22:17:00.003-04:00

Critter update: Critter is on his way to the Carolina mountains with Beth Revis, where he has a good chance of seeing Biltmore Estates. I can't wait to hear more. Here's a link to Beth's blog so you can see for yourself. Go Critter go!

Hurry over to PJ's Blog. Critter is going someplace new!

2009-09-09T14:03:00.004-04:00

PJ's blog is calling for all those who would like Critter to come visit them. Go see PJ and leave her a comment for a chance for Critter to come visit you! Critter has all sorts of great offers so far. People want to take him to Castles, Space Needles, Mylie Cyris concerts, airplane rides, woodland hikes, and costco! This is one luck critter!

Don't forget to check out critters creator and artistic genius extrodinaire, Ian Sands.

Critter Update and some great reading

2009-09-07T21:37:00.005-04:00

Critter is having some great fun in Texas. He even got to cozy up next to a copy of Catching Fire before I did. Check out PJ Hoover's blog to see what Critter is up to. Also, it looks like Critter will start looking for a new place to visit this Wednesday, so be sure to visit PJ's blog for a chance to have Critter come visit you.

Please take note that on my side bar I'm going to follow Critter's blog locations as he travels.

I was so jealous of Critter and his elbow rubbings with Catching Fire, that I had to go out and get my own copy. And let me tell you, it's a fabulous sequal to The Hunger Games. If you haven't read it yet, you should.

I've been on a great reading kick. Some other good book's I've read are:
The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
~ it's a charming book and way better than the movie

Dreadlocks by Neal Shusterman
~ a dark fusion of Goldie Locks and the 3 bears and Greek Mythology. Sounds strange? yes. But Neal makes it work. A very clever and enjoyable read. Also a short, easy read.

When You Reach me by Rebecca Stead
This is a sci-fi book, but it doesn't feel like it until the end. I think this time-travel book, in the tradition of A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'Engle, will touch lovers of all genre's, not just sci-fi fans. This is also a short and easy read.

Currently, I'm reading Sacred Scars by Kathleen Duey, the sequel to Skin Hunger. I just started it today. It's a thick book, and may take me longer to read, but I'm already hooked!

Hope you had a great Labor Day! Happy Reading!

Critter's first visit in Blogland will be with . . . . .

2009-08-26T09:43:00.003-04:00

Critter is very excited. He's packed his bag and is ready for his Blogland adventure.

All the entries are in my handy-dandy tupperware bowl of winningness and Critter is about to milk his pants from the the excitement. (If you haven't noticed, this critter is part cow.)

And the first person Critter will come to visit is . . . . .

PJ HOOVER!!!!

YaY PJ! Critter will be able to enjoy Texas w/o the fear of too much perspiration. :0)

But don't worry folks. There are 14 more places that Critter will get to visit, so you still have 14 more chances to win a visit by following him on his journey I will post links to the places that Critter is going so you'll be able to have another chance on the other blogs. PJ's blog is PJhoover.blogspot.com. Check out her blog and watch for Critter to show up! :0)

Critter's Adventure in Blogland starts with YOU!

2009-08-23T15:57:00.006-04:00

OK. It's time to unleash my desire to bring interactive art to Blogland. I have acquired one of Ian Sands famous Critters and the Critter is ready to go on his Blogland adventure. This is how it will work. I must add that this lightweight foam Critter is an actual piece of art. It is a miniature version of what you might see at Ian's exhibits or on his Etsy shop

1) Those who want to participate can leave a comment in the comments section to have a chance to have Critter come to visit you. You may also increase your number of entries by following my blog, mentioning this contest on your blog, twitter, Facebook or any other social networking place. You may also gain another entry by commenting about the kind of adventure that Critter may have if he comes to visit you.

2) This Wed. I will draw the name of the lucky person who gets to have Critter come for a visit. I will get your mailing address from you and will send Critter to your house.

3) When you get Critter in the mail, write your name and City location.

4) Now you get to Send Critter someplace else. Host a contest for Critter on your blog and then send Critter to the winner from your blog. (the critter is made of a light weight foam board, so it should not be too expensive to mail.)

5) I will track Critter's location so we can see where he has been and where he will be going.

There are 16 name spaces on Critter. My name is on the #1 spot. So, Critter gets to go to 15 other places. The last person will send Critter back to me. This is a trial run. If people like it, maybe we can do it again some other time.

So. Are you in? Please make sure that you are willing to keep Critter going on his adventure if you sign up for this. If you don't follow through, you'll break Critter's heart (and ruin the fun for the rest of us.)

On your mark, get set . . . . leave a comment! Be sure to tell me in the comments if you mention this contest anywhere else so that I can put and extra entry in the bowl for each extra thing that you do.

The Lost Critter Project

2009-08-18T13:40:00.006-04:00

photo borrowed from the Ian's Blog

If you're in Downtown Apex NC this week, you can hunt for critters made by artist, Ian Sands and his crew of High school Students. Yes, this art teach actually inspires kids to volunteer for projects over the summer. (you can read the article by clicking here.)

They made 500 foam board critters, each hidden around town and carrying instructions regarding which Downtown business the critter should be returned. When returned, the founder is rewarded with a sucker, a kit-kat or various other treats. This is an interactive public art project intended to promote local business.

Isn't that the most creative and fun thing you've ever heard of?!?

Anyway, since Ian is a friend and Critique buddy of mine, I have an idea to bring this interactive art to our blogs. I have to work out the details, but keep your eyes peeled. I'm thinking of calling it "Critter Around the World" or "Critter's Adventure in Blogland" or something like that. (much akin to a Flat Stanley kind of thing) I would need you blog owners to participate, or it wouldn't be any good.

Details to come. . . .

Random title and plot generators

2009-08-13T10:01:00.002-04:00

OK, here's a couple things for fun. Who knows, you might even get something good out of it.

First is the random title generator. When I tried it there were some rediculous titles (obviously) but there were actually a few that I liked too. One was "Waves in the Ashes" If you go to the link, let me know what good titles came up for you.

Here's the link to the Random Title Generator

The random plot generator is hillarious. I'd be surprised if you get a really good idea out of this one, but who knows, perhaps this could be good for a creative writing exercise or just something to get your creative juices flowing.

Here's the link to the Random Plot Generator

Enjoy! :0)

A peek into an editor's day

2009-08-11T10:59:00.004-04:00

Wow! I can't believe how long it has been since my last post. But you know how things get sometimes. Busy, busy, busy. The kids are back in school, which means I'm actually able to be more productive which means less computer/blogging time.

However, I came across a great blog that is maintained by seven Children's book professionals. The latest post is about what goes on in a editor's day. Don't we all wonder why it take so long for them to get back to us? Don't we wonder why a submission or a query must be perfect and why it must stand out from all the other submissions? Read this and you'll understand much better. Wow! I got tired just reading it.

http://bluerosegirls.blogspot.com/2009/08/day-in-life-of-editor.html

I've also added this blog to my side bar. FYI :0)

Have a great day!

beach books and getting conference ready

2009-07-29T21:50:00.003-04:00

I'm back from the beach.

I read the main chunk of The Forrest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan while sitting on a beach chair by the ocean. Which is super cool, because a major thru-line is this book is the main characters desire to see the ocean. It's a driving motivational force for Mary and it makes it extra cool to read about Mary's burning desire to see the ocean. It makes you feel like you're really waiting for her on the other side, pulling her along in her quest. Because of this I nominate this book as the #1 best beach read of the year.

The other book I read was Red Riders Hood by Neal Shusterman. Yes. Another Shusterman book. I'm determined to read all his books. He's a brilliant story teller. Red Riders Hood is a dark Urban twist on the Little Red Riding Hood tale. As usual, Shusterman is clever, creative and pulls off a story that not every author could. It's a fun read!

I've been home for a few days, but I haven't blogged because, in addition to house and family stuff, I've been getting my critiques prepared to send out for the SCBWI Carolina's Fall Conference in Sept. I'm sending out two critiques this year. The deadline to get them in is the 31st, so I had to finish them up and send them out today so I could meet the deadline.

I miss the beach, but it's good to be back too. Now I have to go catch up on everyone elses blogs and see what ya'll have been up to.

Beach Reading

2009-07-16T11:26:00.004-04:00

I'm leaving for the beach on Sunday, so I was hoping to find a book that I could read that would suck me in. I wasn't sure what to get.

I've been wanting to read The Forrest of Hands and Teeth, but my Library didn't have it yet. I had asked if they had it a couple of months ago and they didn't. So, when I saw this sitting out on the display shelf yesterday, I audibly ~gasped~ and did a head dive for the shelf, (the kind like tennis or volley ball players will do to make a good save) and snatched up the book before anyone else could. (not that there was anyone w/i 10 feet of me, but a girl can not be too careful you know.)

So, now I have a good beach read for my vacation. The only problem is that I'll be gone for a week and I'll probably finish this in one day (2 days tops.) Anyone have any page-turners to recommend for additional beach reading? My book list is on the side bar of this blog if you want to see what I've recently read.

Dimly Enlightened.

2009-07-10T10:48:00.009-04:00

Today's blog is brought to you by The Training Institute for Flying Squirels

picture borrowed from www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/broughttolife/people/josephlister.aspx

Between the research I'm doing for my current WIP and my wonderful antique Children's Literature Text book, I've been thinking a lot about the past, the present and how generations change, how thinking and idea's morph over time.

Each generation thinks they have an enlightened view of the world. Each era has it's own sense of superiority.

It makes me wonder what we hold or reject in society today. What do we believe to be true, or how do we see ourselves as "enlightened" only generations from now we will be proven wrong?

For example: In my research of Medical History past, I've found that doctors were skeptical of the use of antiseptic. Here's a blurb from the Book "The Writer's Guide to Everyday Life in the 1800's" by Marc McCutcheon. (a google search will also provide similar info)

This section of the book comes from a glossary of terms re: Health, Medicine and Hygiene in the 1800's:

carbolic spray: an antiseptic spray strongly recommended by Lister to disinfect operating rooms of germs but used only by a handful of surgeons even as late as the 1870's. Pysicians were ignorant of the importance of cleanliness for most of the century. Antiseptic practices were not widely adopted until the 1880's and consequently cases of septicemia were common.

Her's a bit from Samuel Gross, Professor of Surgery, Philadelphia, in a medical review:
"Little if any faith is placed by any enlightened surgeon on this side of the Atlantic in the so-called carbolic acid treatment of Professor Lister."

Does that hit you like it hits me? Kind of makes you wonder. . . . huh?
What thoughts or people are though of in a negative way that will one day be praised? What of these do we see as good, that will go on to be thought of as "bad?" What is absurd now that will be commonplace in the future? what is common now that will be absurd in the future? hmmmmm . . . . Dang. My thinker is set in overdrive.

Will Diet Coke one day be found to be as destructive to our health as smoking (I hope not.)?

Will the key to good health be found in chocolate?

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop?

A fly on the wall in the slush pile: Thoughts from agent, Elana Roth

2009-07-09T10:32:00.007-04:00

Have you ever wished you could be a fly on the wall as a editor or agent goes through their query stash? Just to get a glimpse into what they are thinking . . . now that would be good info to possess. If only I had enough of this inside info I could be like . . . like a writing Jedi; enlightened, wise, and my likeness could be cloned into a pointy-eared action figure.

One nice thing about twitter is that you can "follow" agents and editors without looking like cRaZeD stalker. Sometimes you get a glimpse into what they are looking for or other nuggets of info that might make you a better writer or query-ster or you can get a better idea of what is going on in the world of publishing.

Yesterday Elana Roth, Agent at Caren Johnson Literary Agency, tweeted some of her "realizations" about her thoughts as she went through her query stash. I found them interesting, so I thought you might too. I've quoted a few of them, but you can head on over to the agency blog where she compiled her entire list. Click-ity, click right here to swoosh on over to Elana's post.

A few of Elana's Query Realization "Tweets"

Slush Realization #1: I guess I'm just not a fan of non-human characters and narrators.
Slush Realization #2: I really hate e-stationery.
Slush Realization #3: If you hire someone to query on your behalf (don't), wouldn't you want them to have read my submission guidelines?
Slush Realization #4: Sometimes people make up things so strange that classifying them as "fantasy" still doesn't help me understand them.
Slush Realization #5: Apparently just saying "no thanks" can equal feeding the trolls. A rejection letter does not a dialogue opener make.
Slush Realization #9: If an email doesn't LOOK cleanly formatted, I tend to think words-on-a-page might not be your thing.

A big thanks to Elana for allowing me to quote and link her tweets!

2009-07-07T14:06:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Jacqui Robbins for the release of her new Picture Book. Available in stores and online today!

YaY Jacqui! *\o/*