So here’s the thought process: A friend recommended I change the name “Maisie” of Maisie’s List to something a little easier on the ear. Viewing a list of popular names around 1980, when the character was born, I came across “Christy.” I have a friend named Christy whom I love a lot, and who serves…
I always worry that my novels are too short. Soul Lost is my longest at 81,000 words, but Megan is much shorter, only 47,000. A book that has not yet seen the light of day, The People of the Green Hills, is more epic in my mind, but on paper it is only 67,000 words.…
One of the things I love about my sons as adults is that they are now the teachers, and I truly enjoy learning from them. Currently my younger son is teaching me about alternative rock, and I’m loving it. Context: I’m working on a new book with a working title of “Maisie’s List.” The protagonist is…
I saw Beauty and the Beast yesterday, and–Wow!–I love it. I have to say that as immersed as I was in the story, periodically I was reminded of Harry Potter, and I wondered if Emma Watson noticed the similarities as she was making the movie. The castle (particularly the castle. Didn’t it look like Hogwarts?), the…
Joy is to fun what the deep sea is to a puddle. It’s a feeling inside that can hardly be contained. ― Terry Pratchett, A Hat Full of Sky Joy! That overwhelming happiness that makes you feel like your skin cannot contain your spirit. That word you cannot write without an exclamation point. What a…
I am editing Soul Lost for the umpteenth time, trying to finally–three years, for God’s sake–get the print version published. I have discovered a new characteristic that I had not previously uncovered in my quest for self-awareness. Whereas I lack an attention to detail in nearly all things, when it comes to editing I am…
But at my back I always hear/Time’s winged chariot hurrying near–Andrew Marvel (1621-1678) Before you think this post is going to be a downer, let me assure you it is quite the opposite. Allow me to explain… First of all, the poem. Notice the poet’s dates. 1621-1678. This is a long time ago. How long? Shakespeare…
