Writing coach clients ask me all the time if it’s better to write longhand or type. I answer yes. And I advise those who don’t ask that question to try both. I know from my own work that writing longhand brings different results than typing. When I’m stuck and can’t seem to make any writing… Continue Reading
Lessons from My Dogs: Creative Exploration
“I’m looking for an over-sized mellow cocker spaniel,” I told the breeder. “We have just the puppy,” she answered. “He’s 30% larger than his siblings. His nickname is The Philosopher. He just sits back and watches everything before deciding whether he wants to engage.” I named my chunky baby black English Cocker Spaniel Hoover–officially Hoover… Continue Reading
Hebrew Mamita
The power of words. The power of poetry. They come together in Vanessa Hidary’s signature piece “Hebrew Mamita.” Does this piece move you to make your own heartfelt statement? I hope so. Let me know how it goes. Here’s to finding the strength to write about what’s really important and the courage to share it.… Continue Reading
Word Play — Apostrophes
If apostrophes could have babies, I would say that there’s an apostrophe population explosion going on. I would also say that the parents of these baby apostrophes are letting their offspring roam around way too freely, because they’re increasingly getting into places they don’t belong. What am I talking about? Sometimes I wonder, but in… Continue Reading
Grammar Outs: Nadia G’s Bitchin’ Kitchen
True confessions time. I love watching cooking shows. And Nadia G’s Bitchin’ Kitchen is one of my favorites. Something about a hysterically funny, mouthy Italian from New Jersey who cooks in stripper heels as pointed as her wit just works for me. Who else would do a show called “Break-up Brunches? or post food porn… Continue Reading
Self-Publishing Success! Publisher Picks Up Writing Coach Client’s Book
When I first reviewed Rick Gilbert’s material, I pointed out that his working manuscript lacked a cohesive argument. The information he presented needed to: Build on–instead of repeat–itself. Always point back to the reader in terms of relevance. I ended my memo by saying that after reading all his pages, I was itching to re-think… Continue Reading
Raise Money for your Idea Through Book Crowdfunding
Self-publishing used to be reserved for those who could afford to pay tens of thousands of dollars since they had to pony up for big print runs. Print on demand (POD) has helped level the playing field since you no longer have to invest in inventory, but there are still plenty of expenses affiliated with… Continue Reading
Schooner Zodiac Sailing Adventure Provides Life Perspective
I missed posting last Friday, I’m happy to say because I was sailing aboard the Schooner Zodiac in a part of the world I’ve wanted to visit for at least 20 years. I had been feeling stuck, sucked into the daily rhythms of life and work to the point that I had started to bore… Continue Reading
Define Your Audience
Who are you writing for? If you don’t define your audience, it’s hard to actually know how to reach them. I can guess what you’re thinking. This all sounds obvious, doesn’t it? So here’s the catch. When I ask prospective book authors or bloggers about their audience, the answer I get most frequently is “everyone”… Continue Reading
OSU-Cascade’s New Low-Residency Creative Writing MFA Program
After a long gestation period and guidance from people like the wonderful and wonderfully talented writer Ellie Waterston, OSU-Cascade’s new Low-Residency Creative Writing MFA Program is now a go. You can find information about the program online at www.osucascades.edu/academics/mfa and about the core faculty in fiction and poetry at http://www.osucascades.edu/academics/mfa/faculty Applications for the initial residency… Continue Reading
Literary Agent:
Ted Weinstein
Ted Weinstein Literary Management
Mechanics’ Library Building
57 Post Street, Suite 512
San Francisco, CA 94104
tw@twliterary.com
www.twliterary.com