Parameters of the YA Novel: Is Bridge of Clay Still YA?
Bridge of Clay and YA Novels What are the parameters of the YA novel? Is Markus Zusak’s Bridge of Clay still YA? I asked myself this as I read this gorgeous novel. If you’re writing a novel that focuses on … Continued
Hope in the Mail: Writing Advice for Young Writers
Wendelin Van Draanen, author of Hope in the Mail: Reflections on Writing and Life, wrote one of my favorite YA novels, The Running Dream. (I wrote a review of The Running Dream here. Check it out–and check out the book!) … Continued
New Year’s Resolutions: More Everyday Inspiration
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly I found more everyday inspiration to help you stick to your New Year’s Resolutions. If you’ve lost inspiration to follow through, take a minute here. Last week I had some fun with products … Continued
New Year’s Resolutions: Still Inspired?
People don’t need to impress themselves. And how can they conquer and seize the day when what they really need is a nap and some vapor rub?
Inlandia Journal Live Today—Fall 2019
I hope you have the opportunity to peruse the work of these wonderful authors and artists.
Bunk, Hoaxes and Cultural Appropriation: Lessons for the Writer
When I realized the length of Kevin Young’s Bunk: The Rise of Hoaxes, Humbug, Plagiarists, Phonies, Post-Facts and Fake News, I decided I’d listen to it on audiobook. I’d read a positive review of it in the LA Times and … Continued
The Business of Writing: Jane Friedman, Kristen Lamb
In order to make connections with readers, a writer today needs to do a lot more than get an agent to believe in her work and pitch it to publishers.
Ignite Your Creative Process with Author Advice Books
I broke my toe recently and didn’t feel much like walking for a few days. To avoid wasting the down time, I decided to read several books I’d seen recommended for writers (some specifically for fiction writers) in a variety … Continued
Writing Prompts from Rebecca Solnit’s Writing
Much of what she discusses is kindling for your own writing, including journaling. Her reflections on the current state of the country, as well as on ways to be in the face of so much negative news are both idea igniters.
Book Letters — David Stone
I was the lucky recipient of this beautiful block print. The process of making the print is interesting. I thought creatives might enjoy the photos of the process (follow the link)—and perhaps even give it a try. I wanted to … Continued