Years ago, I submitted my first novel to a list of agents who specialized in my genre, sure they’d love my quirky clever book. I’d edited, re-edited, and run it by people I trusted–it was dressed for success. At that time, I didn’t realize that finding an agent was like putting a hood on a …
It’s become popular to continue a beloved series after the death of the author. Some work like Anne Hillerman who continues the Navajo Mystery series started by her father, Tony Hillerman. He was iconic for his descriptions of life and culture through the adventures of a detective on an Indian reservation. She continues that nicely …
When I teach professional development classes, by far the topic that surprises attendees the most is the legal use of online images. And they’re not alone. On my blog, in educator forums, and in the virtual meetings I moderate, there is much confusion about what can be grabbed for free from online sites and what …
For the next few months, weekly writing tips will include word choice suggestions. That includes: colorful and original descriptions pithy words and phrases picture nouns and action verbs writing that draws a reader in and addicts them to your voice I keep a collection of descriptions that have pulled me into the books. I’m fascinated how …
This is inspired by Jennifer Cohen over at Forbes who wrote a wonderful article on “5 Things Super Successful People Do Before 8am” (few of which I did, though I can claim #5). She includes chores like exercise, eat a healthy breakfast, map out the day–all great ideas, but not pithy enough for the average …
I have launched each of my books with a virtual book launch via my blog. I really have no success with any other social media. Last year, I tried a few new things and learned a little watching the launches of colleagues: I wanted to give back to those willing to support my writing. It … Continue reading
The A to Z Challenge asks bloggers to post 26 articles on a themed topic. It’s supposed to be every day except Sundays during the month of April but I find that too busy and decided to post mine ‘about’ once a month. Yes, it’ll take me a couple of years. Sigh. My topic, like the … Continue reading
This post is for Alex Cavanaugh’s Insecure Writers Support Group (click the link for details on what that means and how to join. You will also find a list of bloggers signed up to the challenge that are worth checking out. The first Wednesday of every month, we all post our thoughts, fears or words … Continue reading
Here are a few more Indies I enjoyed over the past few months: Spirit of the Shell Man–recommended for those who love quirky and intriguing mysteries 5 Mystic Keys–a simple guide to taking charge of your life and fixing personal problems –a note about my reviews: I only review books I enjoyed. I need to … Continue reading
I’m expanding my reading beyond Westerns, but they are still my comfort food. Here are a few more I enjoyed: Brannigan’s Land–justice in the old West Disturbing the Peace–Deputy US Marshall Halstead must face a crew of outlaws led by a man he thought he’d killed Axle Bust Creek–a Civil War vet ends up in … Continue reading
A lot of teacher-authors read my WordDreams blog. In this monthly column, I share the most popular post from the past month on my teacher education blog, Ask a Tech Teacher. This month I have two–both short! EdTech Review chronicles popular posts across the world on the impact of technology on education. Once a year, they … Continue reading
The A to Z Challenge asks bloggers to post 26 articles on a themed topic. It’s supposed to be every day except Sundays during the month of April but I find that too busy and decided to post mine ‘about’ once a month. Yes, it’ll take me a couple of years. Sigh. My topic, like the … Continue reading
Prehistoric fiction is a small niche. There aren’t a lot of novels in this genre so I cheer every time I find one I love, like this one: DEATH IN THE NEW LAND by Kaye George Amazon blurb Enga Dancing Flower and her tribe have reached a place they can stay in safety. Or have … Continue reading
This is a great collection of thrillers I received from the wonderful folks at NetGalley. I loved all of them: Murder at Black Oaks–an innocent man is on death row for 30 years and the prosecutor wants him freed The Last Orphan–one more person to help, but I’m not convinced it’s the last! The 6:20 … Continue reading
During my promo for my latest prehistoric fiction, Laws of Nature. one of my wonderful hosts posted this article I wrote about how I break up my day with a timeline. In case you missed it, here’s a revisit: *** I thought this was a good time to share how my writing day has changed … Continue reading
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