Random Ravings

Taking a Break

2009-10-04T20:12:00.002-05:00

I'm taking a break (as you can see) from blogging for a few weeks. I plan to be back on October 14 with Waiting On Wednesday ........ and a plan for NanoWriMo. I've had to let many things slide as there are just not enough hours in the day. However, I want to write. I need to write. So, I'm giving myself October to plan, plot, rearrange, etc. so that I'm ready to kick it into gear for November.

See you soon.

Waiting On Wednesday

2009-09-16T20:35:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Labor Day by Joyce Maynard

What I'm Working On: Finding time. It's there. I know it is. I just haven't found it yet.

Marathon Training: Love it. Love it. Love it. Plus, all my clothes are now too big. That's a nice by-product.

Waiting on: The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan; March 9th 2010 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Synopsis:

Gabry lives a quiet life. As safe a life as is possible in a town trapped between a forest and the ocean, in a world teeming with the dead, who constantly hunger for those still living. She’s content on her side of the Barrier, happy to let her friends dream of the Dark City up the coast while she watches from the top of her lighthouse. But there are threats the Barrier cannot hold back. Threats like the secrets Gabry’s mother thought she left behind when she escaped from the Sisterhood and the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Like the cult of religious zealots who worship the dead. Like the stranger from the forest who seems to know Gabry. And suddenly, everything is changing. One reckless moment, and half of Gabry’s generation is dead, the other half imprisoned. Now Gabry only knows one thing: she must face the forest of her mother’s past in order to save herself and the one she loves.

Why:

I have THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH on reserve at the library. I can't wait to read it, but maybe I'll wait until Carrie's new one comes out and have two in a row to read without the maddening wait for a sequel.

Waiting On Wednesday

2009-09-09T19:51:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Labor Day by Joyce Maynard and Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer

What I'm Working On: Writing. (What writing?)

Half Marathon Training: I did 5 miles on Saturday and it felt great!

Waiting On: Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger.

Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Group; September 29, 2009

Synopsis:
Six years after the phenomenal success of The Time Traveler's Wife, Audrey Niffenegger has returned with a spectacularly compelling and haunting second novel set in and around Highgate Cemetery in London.

When Elspeth Noblin dies of cancer, she leaves her London apartment to her twin nieces, Julia and Valentina. These two American girls never met their English aunt; they only knew that their mother, too, was a twin, and Elspeth her sister. Julia and Valentina are semi-normal American teenagers -- with seemingly little interest in college, finding jobs, or anything outside their cozy home in the suburbs of Chicago, and with an abnormally intense attachment to one another.

The girls move to Elspeth's flat, which borders Highgate Cemetery. They come to know the building's other residents. There is Martin, a brilliant and charming crossword puzzle setter suffering from crippling obsessive-compulsive disorder; Marjike, Martin's devoted but trapped wife; and Robert, Elspeth's elusive former lover, a scholar of the cemetery. As the girls become embroiled in the fraying lives of their aunt's neighbors, they also discover that much is still alive in Highgate, including -- perhaps -- their aunt, who can't seem to leave her old apartment and life behind.

Niffenegger weaves a captivating story in Her Fearful Symmetry: about love and identity, about secrets and sisterhood, and about the tenacity of life -- even after death.

Why:

I loved The Time Traveler's Wife and she got a HUGE advance for this, so why not!

1/2 Marathon

2009-09-07T19:52:00.006-05:00

What I'm Reading: Labor Day by Joyce Maynard and Joker One by Donovan Campbell

What I'm Working On: I think I just need to do a couple of short or new projects so that I can make myself sit down to the computer. Right now I have 0 time and 0 motivation. Maybe if I make it fun (something new), the 0 time will be less of an issue.

Half Marathon Training: Week 2! I love this stuff.

This is my schedule to prepare for my November 22 half marathon. I'm on week 2. Today, I did Monday's workout.

What do you think?

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-09-02T20:55:00.006-05:00

What I'm Reading: I'm trying to get into Joker One by Donovan Campbell. It's billed as a story of courage, leadership, and brotherhood and I thought it might be right for my fav high school, but if it doesn't pep up soon, I won't finish.

What I'm Working On: Hahahahahha

Half Marathon training: Week one of official training (after weeeeeks spent on the eliptical, bike, and treadmill. Day 2 of 5:15 am running went better than expected.

WAITING ON: LEAVING CAROLINA by Tamara Leigh
September 15, 2009 by Random House

SYNOPSIS: Piper Wick left her hometown of Pickwick, North Carolina, twelve years ago, shook the dust off her feet, ditched her drawl and her family name, and made a new life for herself as a high-powered public relations consultant in LA. She’s even “engaged to be engaged” to the picture-perfect U.S. Congressman Grant Spangler.Now all of Piper’s hard-won happiness is threatened by a reclusive uncle’s bout of conscience. In the wake of a health scare, Uncle Obadiah Pickwick has decided to change his will, leaving money to make amends for four generations’ worth of family misdeeds. But that will reveal all the Pickwicks’ secrets, including Piper’s. Though Piper arrives in Pickwick primed for battle, she is unprepared for Uncle Obe’s rugged, blue-eyed gardener. So just who is Axel Smith? Why does he think making amends is more than just making restitution? And why, oh why, can’t she stay on task? With the Lord’s help, Piper is about to discover that although good PR might smooth things over, only the truth will set her free.

WHY:
This sounds like the type of feel good story I've been looking for. (And needing.)

Not so good

2009-08-31T19:56:00.001-05:00

I'm not doing so good with the blog posts this month. It's been very busy. Next month I'll do better. I fell short by 2 blog posts this month in getting in my bare minimum. But September is just 3 hours away. I will do better.

Better training for my 1/2 marathon.
Better writing -- what's that book I'm working on again?
Better blogging.

Until September!

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-08-26T19:49:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: Just finishing up My Sisters Keeper by Jodi Piccoult

What I'm Working On: Keeping one nostril above water -- not always successfully.

What I'm Waiting on: HUSH, HUSH by Becca Fitzpatrick

October 13th 2009 by Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

Synopsis: For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch came along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment. But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure who to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel. For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.

Why: Do I really need a reason?

Waiting On Wednesday

2009-08-19T19:41:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: Farewell, My Subaru: An Epic Adventure in Local Living by Doug Fine

What I'm Working On: Nothing today. I spent the day with a brave soul from Darfur. I'm taking a break and giving thanks for the life I have and praying for those who see know end to suffering.

Waiting on: STRENGTH IN WHAT REMAINS by Tracy Kidder

August 25th 2009 by Random House

Synopsis:

The Pulitzer Prize–winning author of the modern classics Mountains Beyond Mountains and The Soul of a New Machine returns with the extraordinary true story of a young man and his will to survive.

In this remarkable book, New York Times bestselling author Tracy Kidder once again delivers the masterful story of a hero for these modern times.

Deo grew up in the mountains of Burundi, and survived a civil war and genocide before seeking a new life in America. In New York City he lived homeless in Central Park before finding his way to Columbia University. But Deo’s story really begins with his will to turn his life into something truly remarkable; he returns to his native country to help people there, as well as people in the United States.

An extraordinary writer, Kidder has the remarkable ability to show us what it means to be fully human, and to tell the unadorned story of a life based on hope. Riveting and inspiring, this may be his most magnificent work to date. Strength in What Remains is a testament to the power of will and friendship, and of the endurance of the soul.

Why:

I loved Tracy Kidder's biography of Dr. Paul Farmer (Mountains Beyond Mountains). I admire Dr. Paul Farmer immensely, and Tracy's book told a beautiful story. I hope his new book is just as good.

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-08-12T21:32:00.001-05:00

What I’m Reading: The Places in Between by Rory Stewart

What I’m Working On: Keeping a nostril above water

WAITING ON: FALLEN by Lauren Kate
December 8, 2009 from Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Synopsis:
Seventeen-Year-Old Luce is a new student at Sword & Cross, an unwelcoming boarding/reform school in Savannah, Georgia. Luce’s boyfriend died under suspicious circumstances, and now she carries the guilt over his death with her as she navigates the unfriendly halls at Sword & Cross, where every student seems to have an unpleasant—even evil—history.It’s only when she sees Daniel, a gorgeous fellow student, that Luce feels there’s a reason to be here—though she doesn’t know what it is. And Daniel’s frosty cold demeanor toward her? It’s really a protective device that he’s used again . . . and again. For Daniel is a fallen angel, doomed to fall in love with the same girl every 17 years . . . and watch her die. And Luce is a fellow immortal, cursed to be reincarnated again and again as a mortal girl who has no idea of who she really is.

Why:
I’m too tired from working and ½ marathon training to do more than list 3 reasons.
1) The cover. Very, very nice. I often buy books just for the cover.
2) Very interesting premise. I like to read books that make me say, “Gee, I wish I’d come up with that idea.”
3) Seriously, could this possibly end happily? I want to read to find out.

Booking Through Thursday

2009-08-06T20:34:00.001-05:00

What I'm Reading: Santa Olivia by Jacqueline Carey

What I'm Working On: Not passing out from all the work at the bill-paying job.

Via Jill at Breaking the Spine, I found Booking Through Thursday. Very cool. Check it out. It's self-explanatory.

Here's this Thursday's question:
What’s the most serious book you’ve read recently?(I figure it’s easier than asking your most serious boook ever, because, well, it’s recent!)

Probably The Translator by Daoud Hari. I read it several months ago, but stories of Darfur have a way of staying with you. Everyone should read it.

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-08-05T20:27:00.000-05:00

What I’m Reading: Santa Olivia by Jacqueline Carey

What I’m Working On: The bill-paying job.

WAITING ON WEDNESDAY:
GOING BOVINE by Libba Bray
September 22nd 2009 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Synopsis:
Can Cameron find what he’s looking for?

All 16-year-old Cameron wants is to get through high school—and life in general—with a minimum of effort. It’s not a lot to ask. But that’s before he’s given some bad news: he’s sick and he’s going to die. Which totally sucks. Hope arrives in the winged form of Dulcie, a loopy punk angel/possible hallucination with a bad sugar habit. She tells Cam there is a cure—if he’s willing to go in search of it. With the help of a death-obsessed, video-gaming dwarf and a yard gnome, Cam sets off on the mother of all road trips through a twisted America into the heart of what matters most.

Why:
A Great and Terrible Beauty and the rest of the Gemma Doyle series are among my favorite books. I love Libba’s voice. Reason enough.

A Thursday Thirteen

2009-07-30T20:45:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: Santa Olivia by Jacqueline Carey and The Devil's Company by David Liss

What I'm Working On: Rewriting chapter 2 for the 1000th time. Still.

I've been reading How to Read Literature Like a Professor in addition to the books above. I've read ALOT of the book he discusses in there, but a few I've missed. And those few also made me think about others I'd read. And missed. So, I thought I'd list 13 books I've never read but really feel I ought to based on all those 100 best and such lists. What haven't you read, but feel you ought to?

1. One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest - Ken Kesey
3. Go Tell It on the Mountain - James Baldwin
4. Slaughterhouse Five - Kurt Vonnegut
5. Wide Sargasso Sea - Jean Rhys
6. Northanger Abbey - Jane Austin
7. The Age of Innocence - Edith Wharton
8. A Passage to India - E.M. Forster
9. The French Lieutenant's Woman - John Fowles
10. The Road - Cormac McCarthy
11. Les Miserables - Victor Hugo
12. The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath
13. Siddharta - Hermann Hesse

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-07-29T19:51:00.004-05:00

What I'm Reading: Santa Olivia by Jacqueline Carey and The Devil's Company by David Liss

What I'm Working On: Rewriting chapter 2 for the 1000th time.

WAITING ON:

INTERTWINED by Gena Showalter,

Harlequine Teen, August 25th.

Synopsis:

Like most teens, Aden Stone has friends.
They just happen to be the four human souls living inside him. One can time travel; one can raise the dead; one can foretell the future; one can possess another human.

Lately, however, they’ve been causing him all kinds of trouble, playing mind games with our young hero.

Just when Aden thinks peace of mind will never be his, he meets Mary, an outgoing spirit who is his opposite in every way. And, incredibly, she is capable of quieting the voices. Theirs becomes an inexplicable bond of friendship – one to be tested by a werewolf shape-shifter and an irresistible vampire princess.

All four of these characters, their fates intertwined, will enter a dark underworld of intrigue and danger. But not all of them will emerge alive.

Why:

First, I'm really interested in what Harlequin is publishing in their teen line. I love YA and I'd like to write YA (when I get Slayer the hell done). Harlequin Teen is a new market. Let's see what they have. Plus, I'd like to give Gena Showalter another chance. I read one of her romances and liked it less than I'd hoped. I want to like her YA.

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-07-22T14:19:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Devil's Company by David Liss and The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

What I'm Working On: Nothing. I'm in Texas visiting family.

Waiting On: FLAT BELLY DIET COOKBOOK BY LIZ VACCARIELLO, by Rodale Press, Pub. Date: August 18, 2009

Synopsis:

Drawing on the latest findings from weight-loss science, Prevention, America’s most trusted healthy living magazine, created the breakthrough Flat Belly Diet! The diet that everyone is talking about, this is the only eating plan that integrates monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) into every meal to help women banish those stubborn—and dangerous—extra pounds in the tummy region. This follow-up cookbook puts the eating plan into action, as readers learn how to cook for better health and a slimmer waist, while losing up to 15 pounds in 32 days.

In the Flat Belly Diet! Cookbook readers will find:
1) more than 200 great-tasting new recipes for foods they'll love—like Rigatoni with Meat Sauce, Walnut-Crusted Chicken Breasts, Mexican Stuffed Peppers, and Ginger Macadamia Nut Cheesecake
2) a 4-day jumpstart phase to keep them motivated with quick, noticeable results—losing up to 7 pounds and up to 5 inches from their waist in just 96 hours—with no exercise required
3) a totally flexible program (with mix-and-match meal plans) that allows readers to pick and choose the foods they like and eat them when they want to

Everyone knows that excess belly fat doesn’t just look bad—it’s bad for you.

This cookbook gives readers fatblasting power to trim their tummies—and food so good they’ll want to eat this way for life.

Why?
Seriously?

M

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-07-15T21:08:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Devil's Company by David Liss and The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

What I'm Working On: Nothing much tonight. A last minute crisis at the bill paying job had be working late -- about 2 hours.

WAITING ON: IN THE PRESIDENT'S SECRET SERVICE: Behind the Scenes with Agents in the Line of Fire and the Presidents They Protect

Crown Publishing Group, August 4, 2009

Synopsis:

Never before has a journalist penetrated the wall of secrecy that surrounds the U.S. Secret Service, that elite corps of agents who pledge to take a bullet to protect the president and his family. After conducting exclusive interviews with more than one hundred current and former Secret Service agents, bestselling author and award-winning reporter Ronald Kessler reveals their secrets for the first time.

Secret Service agents, acting as human surveillance cameras, observe everything that goes on behind the scenes in the president’s inner circle. Kessler reveals what they have seen, providing startling, previously untold stories about the presidents, from John F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson to George W. Bush and Barack Obama, as well as about their families, Cabinet officers, and White House aides.

Kessler portrays the dangers that agents face and how they carry out their missions–from how they are trained to how they spot and assess potential threats. With fly-on-the-wall perspective, he captures the drama and tension that characterize agents’ lives.

In this headline-grabbing book, Kessler discloses assassination attempts that have never before been revealed. He shares inside accounts of past assaults that have put the Secret Service to the test, including a heroic gun battle that took down the would-be assassins of Harry S. Truman, the devastating day that John F. Kennedy was killed in Dallas, and the swift actions that saved Ronald Reagan after he was shot.

While Secret Service agents are brave and dedicated, Kessler exposes how Secret Service management in recent years has betrayed its mission by cutting corners, risking theassassination of President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, and their families. Given the lax standards, “It’s a miracle we have not had a successful assassination,” a current agent says.

Since an assassination jeopardizes democracy itself, few agencies are as important as the Secret Service–nor is any other subject as tantalizing as the inner sanctum of the White House. Only tight-lipped Secret Service agents know the real story, and Ronald Kessler is the only journalist to have won their trust.

Why:

I might, maybe, but I'm not saying for sure, have a family member who is a secret service agent. Frankly, I want to read this to see how much they've left out. The secret service does alot more than put on neutral suits and run beside the president in parades. I might also buy one for the family member, who may or may not be able to authenticate or expose as a sham, this new novel.

Another Summer Reading Sunday Seven

2009-07-12T21:01:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Devil's Company by David Liss

What I'm Working On: Kevin -- hero, villian, enigma

I wanted to throw out another 7 books I hope to get to this summer -- or at least soon.

From Cosmo’s list:
1) Dark Places
By Gillian Flynn
When Libby Day was seven, her mother and younger sisters were murdered. She then testified against her brother and helped put him behind bars. Now, 25 years later, Libby is alone and about to go broke. So she begins to sell old family memorabilia to the Kill Club, a group of true-crime fans obsessed with her story. But the club doesn't believe Libby's brother is the killer, and pushes her to investigate the murder. What Libby finds will turn her life upside down — again.
Cosmo says: This thriller got passed around the Cosmo offices for good reason — it's gripping, smart, and chilling.

From another Cosmo list:
2) How to Be Single
By Liz Tuccillo
Manhattan chick Julie Jenson is fed up with the dating scene stateside so she says buh-bye to her posse and travels the world to discover how women in other countries survive the single life. Each city brings new lessons, and soon she finds what she least expected — love. (Psst, the author is the coauthor of He's Just Not That Into You and was an executive story editor for Sex and the City. And she actually jetted around the globe to research this book.) Cosmo says: Reading this novel is like taking a vacation with your BFFs — minus the pricey ticket and lost luggage.

From Queen’s Library summer reading list for adults:
3) Just Too Good to Be True
By E. Lynn Harris
College football player Brady Bledsoe couldn’t ask for more success – A possible professional career is complicated by sexual temptation and emerging family secrets.
Harris serves up a treat that will capture and enchant audiences everywhere--a big, bold, and irresistible novel about football, family, and secrets. Brady Bledsoe and his mother, Carmyn, have a strong relationship. A single mother, faithful churchgoer, and the owner of several successful Atlanta beauty salons, Carmyn has devoted herself to her son and his dream of becoming a professional football player. Brady has always followed her lead, including becoming a member of the church's "Celibacy Circle." Now in his senior year at college, the smart, and very handsome, Brady is a lead contender for the Heisman Trophy and a spot in the NFL. As sports agents hover around Brady, Barrett, a beautiful and charming cheerleader, sets her mind on tempting the celibate Brady and getting a piece of his multimillion-dollar future--but is that all she wants from him, and is she acting alone? Carmyn is determined to protect her son. She's also determined to protect the secret she's kept from Brady his whole life. As things heat up on campus and Carmyn and Brady's idyllic relationship starts to crumble, mother and son begin to wonder about the other--are you just too good to be true? A sweeping novel about mothers and sons, football and beauty shops, secrets and lies, JUST TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE has all the ingredients that have made E. Lynn Harris a bestselling author: family, friendship, faith, and love.

4) Reading Like A Writer
By Francine Prose
From Amazon: Life is precious, and much of that preciousness lies in the details: the sights, the sounds, the scents we too often ignore in our busy lives. Prose makes a superb application of that concept for readers of fiction. To know how the great writers create their magic, one needs to engage in a close reading of the masters, for that is precisely what successful writers have done for thousands of years. College programs in creative writing and summer workshops serve a purpose, but they can never replace a careful reading of the likes of Austen, Dostoyevsky, Flaubert, Kafka, Salinger, Tolstoy, and Woolf. In this excellent guide, Prose explains exactly what she means by close reading, drawing attention to the brick and mortar of outstanding narratives: words, sentences, paragraphs, character, dialogue, details, and more. In the process, she does no less than escort readers to a heightened level of appreciation of great literature. Many will want to go to the shelves to read again, or for the first time, the books she discusses. And to aid them, she thoughtfully adds a list at the end: Books to Be Read Immediately.

*This one should be waiting for me in my office on Monday.

5) Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception
by Maggie Stiefvater
From Amazon: Sixteen-year-old Deirdre Monaghan, a gifted harpist who regularly plays for weddings and other events, has the kind of stage fright that makes her physically ill before a performance, which is an inauspicious way to start a romance; but while vomiting before a competition she meets a gorgeous boy who comes into the restroom to hold her hair. He is Luke Dillon, a flautist who proceeds to accompany her in a truly stellar performance. As four-leaf clovers start appearing everywhere, Deirdre develops telekinetic powers and encounters strange, unworldly people who seem to bear her ill will. Her best friend, James, also a talented musician; her beloved grandmother; and her mother all are in danger, as Deirdre is targeted by the queen of Faerie. Deirdre eventually discovers that she is a cloverhand, a person who can see the denizens of faerie, and Luke, not the only immortal who has her in his sights, is a gallowglass, an assassin assigned by the queen of Faerie to kill Deirdre but who falls in love with her instead. This beautiful and out-of-the-ordinary debut novel, with its authentic depiction of Celtic Faerie lore and dangerous forbidden love in a contemporary American setting, will appeal to readers of Nancy Werlin’s Impossible (2008) and Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series.

*I like faerie stories.

6) Sideshow: Ten Original Tales of Freaks, Illusionists and Other Matters Odd and Magical
Deborah Noyes (editor)
From Amazon: Noyes once again pulls together 10 stories from some of teen fiction’s heaviest hitters (including Annette Curtis Klause, David Almond, and Cecil Castellucci), shining the spotlight on horror’s younger cousin: human oddities. “The Bearded Girl” is an obvious choice, but in it Aimee Bender hones a tale of adolescent acceptance to an uncanny edge, and Vivian Vande Velde delivers a near-perfect should-have-seen-it-coming twist in “Those Psychics on TV.” a sign of the format’s growing acceptance, three of the offerings are graphic stories, including the highlight of the collection, Matt Phelan’s quietly enigmatic “Jargo!,” about a circus curiosity who might be even curiouser than he seems.

*I've been wanting to learn more about short story construction. This anthology might just be the perfect place.

7) Everything Matters!
By Ron Currie, Jr.
On the day that Junior Thibodeau is born, he learns the exact moment when the world will end: 36 years, 168 days, 14 hours, and 23 seconds into the future--pretty heavy news for a newborn. Knowledge of the pending apocalypse--revealed by an omniscient, unnamed "we"--colors Junior's existence from day one and leaves him wondering: "Does anything I do matter?" Ron Currie, Jr.'s terrific debut novel unfolds through the funny, poignant, and tragic stories told by Junior and his family, (each of them owning a chapter) including the all-knowing Greek chorus that gently, affectionately nudges Junior toward his destiny. Everything Matters! is one of the most unique novels I've come across this year--unpredictable without being flashy, sweet without being sentimental, thoughtful without being preachy--a fun read that will keep you thinking long after the story is over.

*This new novel is getting too much press to ignore.

Happy summer reading.
M

I'm back!

2009-07-10T21:30:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Devil's Company by David Liss and The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

What I'm Working On: Laundry and unpacking

I'm back from vacation -- 1/2 spent in Key Largo, 1/2 in Key West. I LOVE Key West. I could live there despite the heat.

I'll blog about our adventures and have another summer reading post and a Waiting on Wednesday this week.

More tomorrow.

Onward to yet another load of laundry!

M

Vacation

2009-07-05T08:06:00.001-05:00

This is just a note to say that I'm off to the Florida Keys for a snorkel week. I doubt I'll post from there, but you never know. I'll be back soon, however! See you in a few days!

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-07-01T23:19:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: Angels and Demons by Dan Brown and The Devil's Company by David Liss

What I'm Working On: Threads, plot points, beefing up the story. (Mostly in my head. I know, writers write, so I should get going!)

WAITING ON: DREAMFEVER by Karen Marie Moning, August 18th, 2009 by Delacorte Press

Synopsis:

He has stolen her past, but MacKayla will never allow her sister’s murderer to take her future. Yet even the uniquely gifted sidhe-seer is no match for the Lord Master, who has unleashed an insatiable sexual craving that consumes Mac’s every thought—and thrusts her into the seductive realm of two very dangerous men, both of whom she desires but dares not trust.As the enigmatic Jericho Barrons and the sensual Fae prince V’lane vie for her body and soul, as cryptic entries from her sister’s diary mysteriously appear and the power of the Dark Book weaves its annihilating path through the city, Mac’s greatest enemy delivers a final challenge...It’s an invitation Mac cannot refuse, one that sends her racing home to Georgia, where an even darker threat awaits. With her parents missing and the lives of her loved ones under siege, Mac is about to come face-to-face with a soul-shattering truth—about herself and her sister, about Jericho Barrons…and about the world she thought she knew. .

Why:

Well, for starters, it comes out in just over a month and other than a few very short excerpts in Moning's newsletters, the above is ALL that has been released. It's been tightly under wraps. Very few teasers (which is a huge teaser). It's the longest of the 4 books in the series (slated for 5 total). The 3rd book ended with...well, you'll have to read it. I won't spoil it for you, but suffice it to say, Mac is screwed. Of course, I'll devour it I'm sure, then I'll have to wait who-knows-how-long for the last installment. Sigh. Oh to feed my book addiction.

A Tuesday Ten for Summer Reading

2009-06-30T23:58:00.001-05:00

What I’m Reading: Angels and Demons by Dan Brown and The Devil’s Company by David Liss

What I’m Working On: Some plotting exercises

On Sunday, I posted 7+ books that I’ve read this summer (or just before it started) or want to read this summer. I have ten more to add to that list.

It’s eclectic, but so am I.

1. The Fire in Fiction: Passion, Purpose and Techniques to Make Your Novel Great by Donald Maass. I attended a Donald Maass workshop last fall. It was great. Overwhelming. Intimidating. Pretty damn scary. So why do I want to read a writing book by him? Because he’s one of the most successful literary agents in New York and someday I want to be good enough to not be intimidated by him.

2. My boss’s boss (my ultimate boss, the man with President – not of the U.S. – in his title) handed me Brain Rules by John Medina, so I guess I’d better read it. He read it for a conference he attended where all attendees were asked to read it. Obviously, he liked it. In all actuality, it sounds very good. Its subtitle is “12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School”. It supposedly informs us as to how our brain really works and how to get the most out of it.

3. I am very, very, very excited about Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning. I have read all her books – both the sexy highlander series and the fever series. I like them both. A lot. I’m dying to figure out what happens next to MacKayla Lane, the protagonist of Moning’s feverish (grin) series. She was in quite a predicament at the end of Faefever. I’m sure she survives, but I have no idea how. Dreamfever doesn't come out until August 18th. I’m almost afraid to download it to my Kindle that day. I may have to splurge for hardcover. Can a hot book melt a Kindle?

4. The next three made my list because they were big vote getters on my favorite high school’s summer reading book club list. I figure I’ll read them, too, just in case I get called to lead an impromptu book discussion. I probably wouldn’t have read any of them if it weren’t for the school’s book club, but who knows, maybe I’ll fall in love with at least one of them. The first is Kiss My Book by Jamie Michaels.

5. The second is How to be Bad by E. Lockhart, Sarah Mlynowski, and Lauren Myracle.

6. The third is The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold.

7. Gone and Hunger, both by Michael Grant. Check out the book info on the publisher's (Harper Teen) website. The publisher is offering the first 100+ pages of Gone as a free e-read. Click here to check it out. Gone is the first book in the series. In Gone, only the young are left as everyone over the age of 15 disappears. Hunger threatens. Bullies rule. A sinister creature lurks. Animals are mutating. And the teens themselves are changing, developing new talents—unimaginable, dangerous, deadly powers—that grow stronger by the day. It's a terrifying new world. Hunger is the sequel and is set three months later when conditions have deteriorated even more. Sounds exciting, huh?

8. April & Oliver by Tess Callahan has been calling to me. Here's what it's about: Best friends since childhood, the sexual tension between April and Oliver has always been palpable. Years after being completely inseparable, they become strangers, but the wildly different paths of their lives cross once again with the sudden death of April's brother. Oliver, the responsible, newly engaged law student finds himself drawn more than ever to the reckless, mystifying April - and cracks begin to appear in his carefully constructed life. Even as Oliver attempts to "save" his childhood friend from her grief, her menacing boyfriend and herself, it soon becomes apparent that Oliver has some secrets of his own--secrets he hasn't shared with anyone, even his fiancé. But April knows, and her reappearance in his life derails him. Is it really April's life that is unraveling, or is it his own? The answer awaits at the end of a downward spiral...towards salvation.

9. Don't Judge a Girl by her Cover by Ally Carter. I blogged about it for a "Waiting on Wednesday." I'll be reading it this summer.

10. Finally, my book club choice for Affairs of the Pen: Santa Olivia by Jacqueline Carey.

A Sunday Seven for Summer Reading

2009-06-28T21:03:00.005-05:00

What I’m Reading: Angels and Demons by Dan Brown and The Devil’s Company by David Liss

What I’m Working On: Expanding the plot (mostly in my head right now)

Since in my job, I deal with selecting and advertising summer reading, I thought I might post some of my summer reading (or at least what I want to read).

Today’s list will be a Sunday Seven. I hope to post ten more Tuesday (a Tuesday Ten).

1) Something by Ernest Hemingway. I’m leaning towards The Sun Also Rises or A Farewell to Arms. Every summer, I try to read one of “those” books that everyone has to read at some point in time. Sometimes, it’s something I’ve read before (like last summer – Great Expectations by Charles Dickens) or something I haven’t. This year, the choice is easy as we’re taking a family vacation to Key West. We’ll be staying near Hemingway’s house so it seems appropriate to read one of his great American novels. Plus, I actually like Hemingway. Of course, I could read a pirate story, too, since we’re taking a day trip to the Dry Tortugas, but I can’t think of a good one. (And, no, I’m looking for something other than Treasure Island.)

2) I wanted a good summer series and I got it. Inhaled it. The Ivy League Novels by Diana Peterfreund. She’s the smart girl’s beach read. (And, wow, what memories and flashbacks. I totally identified with protagonist, Amy Haskel.)

3) I’m hitting Jodi Picoult pretty hard this summer. Two of her books are on my favorite high school’s “book club” list for summer. Preliminary data indicates that these will be widely read, so I thought I’d better read them, too. I’ve already finished Nineteen Minutes and as soon as my number comes up on the library wait list, I’ll be reading My Sister’s Keeper.

4) I’m midway through Angels and Demons by Dan Brown. Same reason as #3. (This is my second time to read it. The first was at least 5 years ago.)

5) I also read the first two books in Melissa Marr’s addictive YA fairy series and I plan to read the third ASAP. It’s called Fragile Eternity and is supposedly the darkest yet.

6) I downloaded Color of the Sea by John Hamamura to my Kindle. Last year I read The Gift of Rain by Tan Twan Eng. It was probably my favorite book of the year (and I read over 60 books). I’ve heard good things about Color of the Sea and I’m hoping it’s a “read-a-like” for The Gift of Rain.

7) The Places Between by Rory Stewart rounds out my seven. In January 2002, Rory Stewart walked across Afghanistan. This is his story. The book was recommended to me as a potential community book for my fav high school in the summer of 2010. I can never start too early when it comes to selecting those community books. It took months to select this summer’s book – The Translator by Daoud Hari.

Thanks for reading. More Tuesday!

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-06-24T10:36:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: Angels and Demons by Dan Brown and Tap and Gown by Diana Peterfreund

What I'm Working On: Some sort of organization for the plot. A storyboard maybe. Help!

What I'm Waiting on this Week:

Hamlet by John Marsden

August 11, 2009 by Random House/Candlewick

Synopsis:

Hamlet’s father has just died. By the time they’ve filled in the grave his mother has remarried. Hamlet suspects foul play, and it’s troubling his spirit. Or maybe he was always troubled. Ophelia is in love with him. His best friend Horatio can’t work him out. Then, on a cold, still night, Hamlet meets the ghost of his father...

This wonderful book, by one of Australia’s most-loved writers, takes Shakespeare’s famous play and makes it into a moving and full-blooded novel. John Marsden powerfully re-imagines the original characters and story. Hamlet, A Novel will be adored by readers young and old.

(I'm not posting a longer synopsis. It's Hamlet. We know the story.)

Why:

It's Hamlet for modern times. So many people have said "why" better than I ever could and I agree with them so I'll let them tell you why.

1) M/C Reviews: http://reviews.media-culture.org.au/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=2944

2) Quote by author Chris Crutcher: "John Marsden has done what a legion of educators, my parents, a great number of my more literate friends and my read-anything-you-can-get-your-hands-on grandmother failed to do. He has made me, for one glorious moment, love Shakespeare. Marsden's version of HAMLET is smart, tough, lyrical, thoroughly readable and uncompromisingly engaging. Back off, Mrs. Phelps (my high school English teacher). I now get HAMLET.”

3) Marsden as a great YA writer. He’s Australian and writes the “Tomorrow” series about Australian friends who return from a camping trip in the outback to discover that enemy forces have invaded the country and imprisoned everyone in town. All of his books are engaging.

A song from Kevin's soundtrack

2009-06-23T20:47:00.004-05:00

What I'm Reading: Angels and Demons by Dan Brown and Tap and Gown by Diana Peterfreund
What I'm Working On: The convulution that is Slayer

Last Thursday I hit the gym for the first time in a week. I'd been away on a Marine Research trip with my fav high school. Life is really rough when you have to snorkel over the best reefs in the U.S. for five days, but I digress.

So, last Thursday, to drown out the rap music the football team was blasting from my fav high school's state of the art fitness center, I cranked some tunes I hadn't listened to in awhile on my iPod

What comes blaring through? Shadow on the Sun by Audioslave (an amazing band fronted by hottie Chris Cornell of Soundgarden fame). Can you tell I'm a fan?

I'd forgotten I'd even put this on my playlist back in the day when I began Slayer's soundtrack. But, wow, it really fits for the hero of my story. (Technically, I have a heroine, hero and another hero. Don't ask.)

Now I'm wondering if it would be beneficial to make a different soundtrack for Tara, Kevin, and Galen. Or would that be further procrastination?

Regardless, I thought I'd post the lyrics for you. Now that I've said this is the perfect song for Kevin (about 3/4 into the book), what do you think he might be experiencing emotionally?

Go ahead and post your thoughts.

Shadow on the Sun by Audioslave:

Once upon a time
I was of the mind
To lay your burden down
And leave you where you stood
And you believed I could
You'd seen it done before
I could read your thoughts
Tell you what you saw
And never say a word
Now all that is gone
Over with and done - never to return

(chorus 1)
I can tell you why
People die alone
I can tell you I'm
A shadow on the sun
Staring at the loss
Looking for a cause
And never really sure
Nothing but a hole
To live without a soul
And nothing to be learned

(chorus 2)
I can tell you why
People go insane
I can show you how
You could do the same
I can tell you why
The end will never come
I can tell you I'm
A shadow on the sun

Shapes of every size
Move behind my eyes
Doors inside my head
Bolted from within
Every drop of flame
Lights a candle in
Memory of the one
Who lives inside my skin

________________________

Here's a pic of Chris, too. Tell me he's not a hottie!?!?

No, I didn't melt in the Florida heat.

2009-06-22T20:05:00.001-05:00

But I could have.....

Sorry to be lax in posting. I'll have a great Waiting on Wednesday for you in a couple of days. (Sorry to miss last week. Out of town.)

More later!

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-06-10T21:35:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Under the Rose by Diana Peterfreund

What I'm Working On: Slayer. Always Slayer.

Waiting On: RAMPANT by Diana Peterfreund
August 25th 2009 by HarperTeen, 416 pages

Synopsis:

Forget everything you ever knew about unicorns...

The sparkly, innocent creatures of lore are a myth. Real unicorns are venmous, man-eating monsters with huge fangs and razor-sharp horns. And they can only be killed by virgin descendants of Alexander the Great.

Fortunately, unicorns have been extinct for a hundred and fifty years.

Or not.

Astrid Llewelyn has always scoffed at her eccentric monther's stories about killer unicorns. But when one of the monsters attacks her boyfriend in the woods — thereby ruining any chance of him taking her to prom — Astrid learns that unicorns are real and dangerous, and she has a family legacy to uphold. Her mother packs her off to Rome to train as a unicorn hunter at the ancient cloisters the hunters have used for centuries.

However, at the cloisters, all is not what it seems. Outside, the unicorns wait to attack. And within, Astrid faces other, unexpected threats: from crumbling, bone-covered walls that vibrate with a terrible power to the hidden agendas of her fellow hunters to — perhaps most dangerously of all — her growing attraction to a handsome art student... and a relationship that could jeopardize everything.

Why:
I love Diana Peterfreund's voice and that's reason enough.

Summer

2009-06-09T09:34:00.000-05:00

I'm going to be in and out alot in the coming weeks. I'm committed to getting a post up once a week -- at least, but for June and July, it might be sparse.

M

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-06-03T23:26:00.002-05:00

What I’m Reading: Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult and Secret Society Girl: An Ivy League Novel by Diana Peterfreund

What I’m Working On: Another draft of Slayer. Seriously – I have to finish this book soon. Or else.

Waiting On Wednesday: THE DEVIL’S COMPANY by David Liss
July 7th 2009 by Ballantine Books

Synopsis:
From the acclaimed author of The Whiskey Rebels and A Conspiracy of Paper comes a superb new historical thriller set in the splendor and squalor of eighteenth-century London. In Benjamin Weaver, David Liss has created one of fiction’s most enthralling characters.

The year is 1722. Thief-taker, ex-boxer, “ruffian for hire,” and master of disguise, Weaver finds himself caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse, pitted against Jerome Cobb, a wealthy and mysterious schemer who needs Weaver’s strength and guile for his own dark purposes.

Weaver is blackmailed into stealing documents from England’s most heavily guarded estate, the headquarters of the ruthless British East India Company, but the theft of corporate secrets is only the first move in a daring conspiracy within the 18th century’s most powerful corporation. To save his friends and family from Cobb’s reach, Weaver must infiltrate the Company, navigate its warring factions, and uncover a secret plot of corporate rivals, foreign spies and government operatives. With millions of pounds and the security of the nation in the balance, Weaver will find himself in a labyrinth of hidden agendas, daring enemies and unexpected allies.

With the explosive action and scrupulous period research that are David Liss’s trademarks, The Devil’s Company depicts the birth of the modern corporation, and is the most impressive achievement yet from an author who continues to set ever higher standards for historical suspense.

Why:
Well, first and foremost because I won an ARC from Goodreads.com. I’m excited to get to read and write a review for this book. It’s not my normal fair. Neither (I thought) was THE HELP, which I also won from Goodreads and which I voraciously devoured and which I’m certain might be my “book of the year”. I love finding new authors and new types of stories to love. This one looks, oh so promising.

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-05-27T18:52:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult

What I'm Working On: Writing everyday.

Waiting On: FIRE by Kristin Cashore
October 6th 2009 by Gollancz

Synopsis:
Fire, Graceling's prequel-ish companion book, takes place across the mountains to the east of the seven kingdoms, in a rocky, war-torn land called the Dells.

Beautiful creatures called monsters live in the Dells. Monsters have the shape of normal animals: mountain lions, dragonflies, horses, fish. But the hair or scales or feathers of monsters are gorgeously colored-- fuchsia, turquoise, sparkly bronze, iridescent green-- and their minds have the power to control the minds of humans.

Seventeen-year-old Fire is the last remaining human-shaped monster in the Dells. Gorgeously monstrous in body and mind but with a human appreciation of right and wrong, she is hated and mistrusted by just about everyone, and this book is her story.

Wondering what makes it a companion book/prequel? Fire takes place 30-some years before Graceling and has one cross-over character with Graceling, a small boy with strange two-colored eyes who comes from no-one-knows-where, and who has a peculiar ability that Graceling readers will find familiar and disturbing...

Why:
I just finished Graceling, and absolutely loved it so of course I want to read more by this very talented author. Her character development is stellar and her imagination is one of the best I've seen in a long time.

I've got FIRE on my "buy right away" list, but October is so far away.

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T06:13:00.004-05:00

Enjoy your memorial day.

......and remember why we celebrate it.

The last days

2009-05-22T16:29:00.000-05:00

Whew. The last day of school with kids.

I still have lots of work to do, but there is a certain quiet relief to know the kids are off for summer.

M

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-05-20T15:25:00.003-05:00

What I’m Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore, Tithe by Holly Black, and Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey

What I’m Working On: Writing every day. So far, so good.

WAITING ON WEDNESDAY

What: Dismantled by Jennifer McMahon

When: June 16, 2009. Harper Collins

Synopsis:
Dismantlement = Freedom
Henry, Tess, Winnie, and Suz banded together in college to form a group they called the Compassionate Dismantlers. Following the first rule of their manifesto—"To understand the nature of a thing, it must be taken apart"—these daring misfits spend the summer after graduation in a remote cabin in the Vermont woods committing acts of meaningful vandalism and plotting elaborate, often dangerous, pranks. But everything changes when one particularly twisted experiment ends in Suz's death and the others decide to cover it up.
Nearly a decade later, Henry and Tess are living just an hour's drive from the old cabin. Each is desperate to move on from the summer of the Dismantlers, but their guilt isn't ready to let them go. When a victim of their past pranks commits suicide—apparently triggered by a mysterious Dismantler-style postcard—it sets off a chain of eerie events that threatens to engulf Henry, Tess, and their inquisitive nine-year-old daughter, Emma.
Is there someone who wants to reveal their secrets? Is it possible that Suz did not really die—or has she somehow found a way back to seek revenge?
Full of white-knuckle tension with deeply human characters caught in circumstances beyond their control, Jennifer McMahon's gripping story and spine-tingling plot prove that she is a master at weaving the fear of the supernatural with the stark realities of life.

Why:

I like the clever idea behind this book. I want to know what happens when things go too far. I hope the characters grow and learn from their action. And, the words spine-tingling and supernatural have me hooked.

A short haitus

2009-05-17T21:15:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey (iPod), Graceling by Kristin Cashore (traditional book), and Tithe by Holly Black (on my KINDLE)

What I'm Working On: Finishing up a scene (580 words tonight) that proves the WIP has altered its course somewhat -- and after MONTHS of fretting over the WIP, I finally feel more on track.

I didn't post a Waiting on Wednesday last week. Hopefully, I will this week. At least that's the next blog I plan to write.

I hate to be "away" but my step father-in-law died after a painful battle with lung cancer. All of us in casa de O'Neal were very close to him.

I'm sure you'll understand me taking a few days off.

But, surely I can get one little "Waiting on Wednesday" post prepared by Wednesday. And, then, hopefully after that I'll feel like blogging about my new KINDLE.

(Yes, I just got an Amazon Kindle. And, yes, I have quite mixed emotions about electronic books living up to all that "real" books are to me, but I will say that this little toy is addictive.)

But more on that later.....

M

Monday stuff

2009-05-11T21:58:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore (it's quite good, but my reading time is minimal these days) and The Gunslinger by Stephen King (listening on iPod -- more time for this)

What I'm Working On: Wing dimensions. Don't ask.

Word count today: 810

Monday's are kind of silly sometimes. Don't you think? I thought I'd post the silliest thing for my Monday.

I tweet on twitter. Or, at least I have an account. I set it up as an experiment -- partly for work, partly for my own curiosity.

I say nothing on it. NOT. A. THING.

And yet, I have 29 followers.

What exactly are they following?

Hmmmmmmmmm

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-05-06T14:20:00.002-05:00

What I’m Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore and Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas

What I’m Working On: A new time line – so to speak.

WAITING ON:
Soulless (Parasol Protectorate Series, Book 1)
By Gail Carriger
October 1st 2009 by Orbit

Synopsis:
Alexia Tarabotti is laboring under a great many social tribulations. First, she has no soul. Second, she’s a spinster whose father is both Italian and dead. Third, she is being rudely attacked by a vampire to whom she has not been properly introduced!

Where to go from there? From bad to worse apparently, for Alexia accidentally kills the vampire, and the appalling Lord Maccon (loud, messy, gorgeous, and werewolf) is sent by Queen Victoria to investigate. With unexpected vampires appearing and expected vampires disappearing, everyone seems to believe Alexia responsible.

Can she figure out what is actually happening to London’s high society? Will her soulless ability to negate supernatural powers prove useful or just plain embarrassing? And who is the real enemy . . . and do they have treacle tart?

“Soulless” is a comedy of manners set in Victorian London full of werewolves, vampires, dirigibles, and tea-drinking…

Why:
Clever, clever, clever concept. I love the alternative Victorian London. And I can’t wait to find out what a soulless heroine will do.

We'll That's a Monday for Ya

2009-05-04T16:30:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas and Graceling by Kristin Cashore

What I'm Working On: I can't get this new idea out of my head. I'm sure it's just another form of procrastination.

New idea: Each Monday, I'm going to post the most bizarre part of my Monday. Monday's, as we all know, tend to be, well, very Mondayish. Tell me the most Mondayish part of your Monday.

Today, while administering an AP exam -- the first one of AP season -- I caught two kids (seniors) scalping graduation tickets during the break.

Scalping Graduation Tickets. Yes, that's right, to their impending high school graduation.

Last week all the seniors at my fav high school received 8 graduation tickets. We're outgrowing our space so for the past several years, seniors have been limited to 8 guests at graduation. Usually those students who don't need all 8 tickets, return the ones they don't need so that those who need more can pick them up.

This is the first time they've ever been scalped. All 8. $25.

I think he could have gotten more.

M

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-04-29T21:02:00.004-05:00

What I'm Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore and Many Stones by Carolyn Comen

What I'm Working On: I like distinct landmarks for "starting things". I'm getting new direction on my writing, and hitting it hard on May 1st.

Waiting On: The Strain by Guillermo Del Toro, Chuck Hogan

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Pub. Date: June 02, 2009

Synopsis:
A heart-stopping thriller-the first in a trilogy-about an invasion of vampires by one of Hollywood's most popular and imaginative storytellers, the creator of the Oscar-winning Pan's Labyrinth.

A Boeing 777 lands at JFK after a flight from Berlin and is on its way to the gate-when it suddenly goes dark. Just stops dead. The control tower loses contact with the pilot and all electrical activity shuts down. No movement or communication from inside. Nada. An emergency crew gathers, everyone watching the silent plane now bathed in floodlights. Then a sliver of black quietly appears on the fuselage. It's a door opening from within.

Dr. Eph Goodweather, head of the CDC's New York team, enters and finds a cabin looking like a winged graveyard where everyone appears to be dead. As he begins to remove bodies for transport to the morgue, four victims are discovered miraculously alive-and relatively unscathed apart from complaints of disorientation and a strange soreness.
But this is just the beginning

At the same time, Eldrich Palmer, director of the global Stoneheart Group, monitors the JFK scene on TV from his sickbed in Virginia. Pleased with what he sees, he sends for a helicopter for immediate transport to a Manhattan penthouse. In Queens, Eph's ex-wife Kelley and their 11-year-old son ready themselves with the rest of the Eastern United States for the first total lunar eclipse in more than four hundred years. In a pawn shop in Spanish Harlem, a former professor and survivor of the Nazi concentration camps named Abraham Setrakian takes it all in. He knows that his time has come, that a war is about to begin, and that the Master is Here.

So begins anescalating battle of epic proportions as the vampiric virus that has infected the four survivors begins to ravage the city. Eph-guided by Setrakian, and joined by Vassily, a exterminator, Nora, Eph's CDC colleague, and Gus, a Harlem gangbanger-fights his way through the next horrifying days, determined to save his wife and son before the Master succeeds in his unholy mission.

Why:
I haven't read a vampire novel like this in a long time -- if ever. It seems a refreshing take on an over-written theme. WooHoo!

Monday Publishing News

2009-04-27T20:03:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Darkest Night by Gena Showalter and Graceling by Kristin Cashore

What I'm Working On: Reading the draft so far and deciding what to do with it now.

Barnes & Noble Launches Audiobook Store
By Jim Milliot -- Publishers Weekly, 4/27/2009 7:35:00 AM
From: http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6654459.html

Barnes & Noble has taken another step in deepening its role in the digital marketplace, launching its Audiobook MP3 Store on Barnes & Noble.com. The store will feature spokenword audiobook MP3s available for download and transfer to iPods, iPhones, MP3 players and other portable devices. The site is launching with more than 10,000 titles across all genres, priced between $10 and $20 per download.

"As the use of MP3 players, iPods, iPhones and other digital devices continues to increase, it is important for Barnes & Noble to continue to expand our audio selections," said Tom Burke, executive v-p, E-Commerce Barnes & Noble. Overdrive is managing the distribution of titles through the BN.com site. Later this year, B&N is expected to launch an e-bookstore, following its acquisition earlier this year of Fictionwise.

My opinion: I looked around the MP3 store at B&N a bit this weekend. I'm a B&N member at $25 per year -- money well spent since I have a book addiction. I found out about the MP3 store this weekend when I got my 50% off an MP3 coupon from B&N. (Great promo.) I spent some time comparing the site to Audible.com (HUGE AUDIBLE FAN here!). My take: Not bad. I'll probably use the coupon tonight to buy Little Brother by Corey Doctorow since it's not available at Audible. I'll let you know what I think.

M

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-04-22T09:08:00.001-05:00

What I'm Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore

What I'm Working On: Whew, last day of book fair.

Waiting On: FUNNY HOW THINGS CHANGE by Melissa Wyatt

Farrar, Straus & Giroux; 27 Apr 2009

Synopsis:

Remy Walker has it all: he found the love of his life at home in crumbling little Dwyer, West Virginia, deep in his beloved Appalachian Mountains where his family settled more than one hundred and sixty years ago. But at seventeen, you’re not supposed to already be where you want to be, right? You’ve got a whole world to make your way through, and you start by leaving your dead-end town. Like his girlfriend, Lisa. Lisa’s going away to college. If Remy goes with her, it would be the start of everything they ever dreamed of. So when a fascinating young artist from out of state shows Remy his home through new eyes, why is he suddenly questioning his future?

The author vividly depicts a rich and beautiful place in this powerful novel about a young man who, over the course of a summer, learns how much he has to give up for a girl, and how much he needs to give up for a mountain.

Why?

I think life always throws you curves. When you think you know what you want, something happens to confuse you. I like stories about figuring out your path.

Monday Book and Publishing News

2009-04-20T12:37:00.002-05:00

What I’m Reading: The Pagan Stone by Nora Roberts and Graceling by Kristin Cashore

What I’m Working On: The annual summer reading book club book fair!!! It’s this week at the bill paying job.

The Pulitzer Prize will be announced today. I love book awards of all kinds. There is no long or short list for the Pulitzer as there is for so many other book awards. However, there is alot of speculating.

Check out the following article before 3 pm eastern to see who the speculative favorites are:

Pulitzer Prognosticating by Omnivoracious (Click here to read the entire blog at its original site.)

Pulitzer Prognosticating
by Tom on April 17, 2009

The Pulitzer Prizes are announced on Monday at 3 pm Eastern time (noon our time)--as always, there are no shortlists or nominees given in advance, but despite that, the Fiction prize has actually become relatively easy to predict in recent years. It wasn't always the case, but in the past dozen years or so the Pulitzer, as the last major US award of the year, has often gone to what by then had become the consensus best book of the year. There have been a few surprises (Martin Dressler, Interpreter of Maladies), but for the most part the winners have been books like Kavalier & Clay, Middlesex, Gilead, and The Road, which, when the prize was announced, just made you say, "Yup, sounds right."

Having said that, I'm not sure what the consensus pick for '08 is (maybe when the Pulitzer makes their choice it'll be clear in retrospect, just as their pick of Oscar Wao over Tree of Smoke made it the novel of the year last year). The folks over at PPrize.com (the Pulitzer Prize First Edition Guide) have gone all Nate Silver over this and done a regression analysis based on previous Pulitzer winners and this year's previous award winners, newspaper best of the year lists, author track records, etc. (And make sure you scroll down to the comments section, for some thorough discussion of the contenders and their methods.) Their top 15 contenders:

Home by Marilynne Robinson
The Widows of Eastwick by John Updike
Indignation by Philip Roth
The Lazarus Project by Aleksandar Hemon
Fine Just the Way It Is by Annie Proulx
The Plague of Doves by Louise Erdrich
A Mercy by Toni Morrison
Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
Dangerous Laughter by Steven Millhauser
Telex from Cuba by Rachel Kushner
Netherland by Joseph O'Neill
My Sister, My Love by Joyce Carol Oates
Lush Life by Richard Price
Our Story Begins by Tobias Wolff

Clearly, their model heavily weights late-career titans like Updike, Roth, and Oates (maybe thanks to some winners like The Old Man and the Sea, A Fable, and The Reivers in the award's earlier history), but I don't think any of those are contenders (much as I liked Indignation). And Robinson, Proulx, Lahiri, and Millhauser appear to be getting credit for being previous Pulitzer winners, while it looks to me like the Pulitzer (unlike, say, the PEN/Faulkner) has avoided multiple winners in recent years.

The ones on that list that best fit my "consensus" definition would be The Lazarus Project, Home, and Lush Life (all nominees for either or both of the NBA and the NBCC) and PEN/Faulkner winner and most-discussed-novel-of-the-year-until-2666, Netherland. And perhaps, after its Tournament of Books win, A Mercy. But maybe this will be the year for a dark-horse candidate like Olive Kitteridge. Tobias Wolff would also be a nice choice--I've been surprised that his collection, by one of our great masters of the short story, hasn't gotten much award or end-of-year attention (even from us), and it would fit in with earlier Pulitzer collected-stories picks like John Cheever, Jean Stafford, and Katherine Anne Porter. Or perhaps a lateish-career win for the prolific Erdrich.

Unlike last year, with Oscar, I don't really have a horse in this race--my favorite novels of '08 were British (A Northern Clemency and Pravda) or Spanish/Mexican/Chilean (2666). But here are my own top contenders, in order:

A Mercy
Netherland
Lush Life
The Lazarus Project
Our Story Begins
Olive Kitteridge
Serena by Ron Rash
The Plague of Doves

And for the other book Pulitzers? They have a more idiosyncratic history (especially the History picks), but I'll guess The Forever War (heavy favorite for General Nonfiction), White Heat (Biography/Memoir), This Republic of Suffering (History), and Sleeping It Off in Rapid City (Poetry). And, based on their odd history of giving Special Citations to deceased jazz composers (Gershwin, Ellington, Monk, and Coltrane--all deserving but quite dead), I half-expect an award for Miles Davis this year too. We'll see on Monday. --Tom

Waiting On Wednesday

2009-04-14T17:47:00.007-05:00

What I'm Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore and The Pagan Stone by Nora Roberts

What I'm Working On: After a severe headache Monday, I'm hoping to write a bit extra today to make up for it. Plus, I'd like to make time after that to read some pages for a friend, and then there's that bill paying project.

Waiting on Wednesday

What: FIRETHORN by Sarah Micklem

From Random House on April 29, 2009

Synopsis: Introducing a mesmerizing debut in the rich tradition of Marion Zimmer Bradley and the powerful narratives of Jacqueline Carey—a passionate tale of love and war in which the gods grant a common girl uncommon gifts…

Before she was Firethorn, she was Luck, named for her red hair and favored by the goddess of Chance. A lowborn orphan, Luck is destined to a life of servitude. But when her mistress dies, Luck flees to the forest, where she discovers the sacred firethorn tree, whose berries bring her fevered dreams, a new name…and strange gifts. When she emerges from the woods, Firethorn is a new woman, with mysterious powers.

And soon, in the chaos of the UpsideDown Days, when the highborn and the low trade places, Firethorn couples with the warrior Sire Galan, whom she follows to camp with the king’s army. There she learns that in her new role as a sheath, a warrior’s bedservant, she is but one step above a whore. By day she uses her gifts as a healer to earn a place among the camp’s women, and by night she shares Sire Galan’s bed, her desire equal to his. But the passion they feel for each other has no place in a world ruled by caste and violence. When her lover makes an ill-considered wager that chances her heart, the consequences are disastrous—and Firethorn will learn how hard it can be to tell honor from dishonor, justice from vengeance.

Why: Gods granting gifts, common girl with uncommon gifts, mysterious powers, honor, vengeance... what's not to love. It sounds epic and dark and seductive and intriguing. Random House is a favorite publisher of mine, so I'll definitely be giving Firethorn a try.

Monday book and publishing news

2009-04-13T15:05:00.004-05:00

What I'm Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore and The Pagan Stone by Nora Roberts

What I'm Working On: 3.3 pages of new snippets. Cross your fingers for me.

Monday book and publishing news
(Note from Macy:
I'm going to make Monday's book and publishing news rather than Manic Mondays. Somedays it will be several little snippets gleaned from multiple locations. Today, it's all from the NYT. Enjoy.)

From http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/12/books/review/Meyer-t.html

Essay
About That Book Advance ...

By MICHAEL MEYER
Published: April 10, 2009

“In the old days,” the novelist Henry Bech, John Updike’s fictional alter ego, once said, “a respectable author never asked for an advance; that was strictly for the no-talents starving down in the Village.”

Since then, Washington Square rents have soared, and writers of fair and ill repute alike seek advance payment for their books. Once minuscule, some advances have escalated into the millions, like the $5 million Scribner paid last month for Audrey Niffenegger’s second novel, “Her Fearful Symmetry.” News of that deal may have seemed odd coming shortly after the chief executive of Simon & Schuster, Scribner’s parent company, announced that because of declining revenue the house would be “watching every penny.” Indeed, in the latest of a string of eulogies for the book industry as we know it, Time magazine fingered advances as part of the “financial coelacanth” of publishing’s business model, doomed to disappear like brick-and-mortar bookstores.

Yet despite the economic downturn, and the fact that 7 out of 10 titles do not earn back their advance, the system doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. In recent interviews, a dozen New York-based publishers and agents told me, more or less, “Publishers have to keep buying books,” and “They have to bid for the best books” — which in large part means those that will sell.

Advances are seldom specified authoritatively. Amounts are coyly described like cigarette brands — the “mid-fives,” the “low sixes,” the “mild sevens.” In the preface to “A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,” Dave Eggers broke form by telling the reader he received $100,000 for the manuscript, which — after his detailed expenses — netted him $39,567.68.

Advance envy is common. “Writers who can’t recall their Social Security number can say to the penny how much of an advance their nemesis received,” Elissa Schappell, a fiction writer and co-editor of the anthology “Money Changes Everything,” said in an e-mail message. To an outsider, the numbers can seem arbitrary, even absurd. “No one ever says of an advance, ‘That’s exactly what that book deserves,’ ” Schappell said. “Yep, a coming-of-age first novel involving drug addiction and same-sex experimentation is worth $25,000.”

As a payment to be deducted from future royalties, an advance is a publisher’s estimate of risk. Figures fluctuate based on market trends, along with an author’s sales record and foreign rights potential, though most publishers I talked to cited $30,000 as a rough average. In standard contracts, the author receives half up front, a quarter on acceptance of the manuscript and a quarter on publication, though that model is changing, said the literary agent Eric Simonoff, whose clients include James Frey and Jhumpa Lahiri. “Now we see advance amounts being paid in thirds, fourths and even fifths,” Simonoff said in an interview. “For a writer dependent on those funds, that’s not an advance, it’s a retreat.”

The numbers can sound much bigger than they are. Take a reported six-figure advance, Roy Blount Jr., the president of the Authors Guild, said in an e-mail message. “That may mean $100,000, minus 15 percent agent’s commission and self-employment tax, and if we’re comparing it to a salary let us recall (a) that it does not include any fringes like a desk, let alone health insurance, and (b) that the book might take two years to write and three years to get published. . . . So a six-figure advance, while in my experience gratefully received, is not necessarily enough, in itself, for most adults to live on.”

The novelist Walter Kirn agrees. “A low-six-figure advance has allowed me to work at less than minimum wage for three years,” he told me. “Perhaps that’s for the best; a large advance might create a disinclination to do anything other than play blackjack in Las Vegas. When I hear these large, publicized advances, it feels like watching the casino play around me.” (Weep not for Kirn, however; he phoned me from the set of the film adaptation of his novel “Up in the Air,” starring George Clooney.)

The question of what to pay which authors has confounded publishers at least since a stationer agreed to give Milton £5 for the right to sell “Paradise Lost.” Joseph Conrad often begged his agent for more money and once asked to be advanced “a fountain pen of good repute.”

But the current culture of blockbuster advances really took shape in the 1970s, when “hardcover publishing was becoming research and development for mass-market paperbacks,” said Peter Mayer, who started the trade paperback division at Avon Books and is now publisher of Overlook Press. “It was the hardcover houses who drove the increases by selling paperback rights.”

In 1971, for example, Viking sold paperback rights to “The Day of the Jackal” to Bantam for 36 times the $10,000 hardcover advance it had paid its author, Frederick Forsyth. “Agents realized that they should be the ones holding auctions for their authors and get advances more in line with the anticipated total value of their books,” Georges Borchardt, who brokered the hardcover rights, said in an interview. (Full disclosure: Borchardt, who is my agent, got me $50,000 for my first, nonfiction book.)

In the 1980s and ’90s, big money also started taking hold on the literary end. Agents like Andrew Wylie succeeded in fetching celebrity-size advances for canonical authors — Norman Mailer, Philip Roth, Salman Rushdie — on the strength of their backlists and sales over time. Before then, the biggest advances went to “disgraced politicians and failed novelists,” Wylie said in an interview. Not that everyone was happy about the littérateur’s shift in fortunes. In 1995, Martin Amis drew the kind of anger reserved these days for derivatives traders when he left his longtime agent for Wylie, who sold Amis’s novel “The Information” for the then outlandish sum of half a million pounds, or nearly $800,000.

Today, such figures are hardly unusual. Jonathan Safran Foer’s first novel, published in 2003, is said to have fetched $500,000. More recently, Foer’s brother Joshua reportedly got $1.2 million for a book about memory competitions.

But some say that authors grabbing for the brass ring can risk not just ridicule and envy, but their careers. “It used to be that the first book earned a modest advance, then you would build an audience over time and break even on the third or fourth book,” Morgan Entrekin, the publisher of Grove/Atlantic, said in an interview. “Now the first book is expected to land a huge advance and huge sales. The media only reports those, not the long path of writers like John Irving, Richard Ford, Anne Tyler and Toni Morrison. The notion of the ‘first book with flaws’ is gone; now we see a novelist selling 9,000 hardcovers and 15,000 paperbacks, and they see themselves as a failure.”

At PublicAffairs, an independent house specializing in current events, advances are as good as capped, said its founder, Peter Osnos. Osnos paid an average advance of $40,000 for PublicAffairs’ four New York Times best sellers in 2008, including Scott McClellan’s “What Happened,” sums greatly augmented by royalty payments when the books hit it big. “If the market says you need to pay $10 million to acquire a title, no one requires a publisher to pay it,” he said in an interview. “You’re not going out of business if you don’t pay that money.”
Today, some publishers are experimenting with low or no advances. In exchange for low-five-figure advances, the boutique press McSweeney’s, founded by Eggers, shares profits with its authors 50-50, as does the new imprint Harper Studio, which offers sub-six-figure advances.
As for Henry Bech, Updike — whose own advances were reputed to be modest — never let him take money up front. But Bech couldn’t entirely avoid the commercialism engulfing publishing. He turned in his final manuscript to his longtime publisher, Vellum Press, which had been sold to a supermarket chain that peddled it to an oil company, which foisted it off on a shale-and-lumber conglomerate. “It was like being a fallen woman in the old days,” Updike wrote. “Once you sold yourself, you were never your own again.”

Michael Meyer’s book, “The Last Days of Old Beijing,” comes out in paperback in May.

Inspiration

2009-04-12T19:46:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Graceling by Kristin Cashore

What I'm Working On: Inspiration. Being inspired. Writing. At least one page of snippets based on inspiration for my current story each day.

I have been unispired of late. I need inspiration. If you're a writer or artist reading this and you have a great idea that helps you get inspired to create, please post it.

Tonight, I decided to search the internet for images that might inspire me to write on my current WIP. I searched for "broken angels" since my story deals with angels and broken people.

Here's tonight's gift to the muses. (Get to work, girls!!)

Spring Break Sucks (this year)

2009-04-11T18:55:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Into the Forest by Jean Hegland and Graceling by Kristin Cashore

What I'm Working On: Not a damn thing (pardon the language, but seriously, I had big plans for this past week and NONE of them turned out right!)

I had been looking forward to spring break for weeks -- since Christmas break if we're being honest. A week at the beach, some sun, some writing, some reading, some quality time with the DH and kids.

What did I actually get?

Sick.

Very, very, sicker-than-I've-been-in years sick. On my very first day off. I'm still sick. It's true that I no longer have a fever (I had one for 4 days), but my sinuses still hurt so bad that looking intently at anything for more than a few minutes at a time hurts like hell.

Hence, the reason I've working on this blog post for 1.5 hours. (Okay, not quite, but close.) So, now I'm even further behind with the writing. (Here's hoping for a good Sunday.) And I'm still tired. I did alot of nothing over break, but being sick still makes you tired.

Sigh. The best laid plans.......

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-04-08T08:01:00.001-05:00

What I’m Reading: White Heat by Cherry Adair and Into the Forest by Jean Hegland

What I’m Working On: Not a darn thing because I have a flu, sore throat, sinus bug that has knocked me off my feet. I’m not even close to 100% today, but I still feel better than I have since Saturday.

Waiting On Wednesday

What: DON’T JUDGE A GIRL BY HER COVER by Ally Carter

When: June 9th, 2009 by Hyperion

Synopsis:
When Cammie "the Chameleon" Morgan visits her roommate Macey in Boston, she thinks she's in for an exciting end to her summer break. After all, she's there to watch Macey's father accept a nomination for vice president of the United States. But when you go to the world's best school (for spies), "exciting" and "deadly" are never far apart. Cammie and Macey soon find themselves trapped in a kidnapper's dangerous plot, with only their espionage skills to save them. As her junior year begins, Cammie can't shake the memory of what happened in Boston, and even the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women doesn't feel like the safe haven it once did. Shocking secrets and old flames seem to lurk around every one of the mansion's corners as Cammie and her friends struggle to answer the questions, Who is after Macey? And how can they keep her safe? Soon Cammie is joining Bex and Liz as Macey's private security team on the campaign trail. The girls must use their spy training at every turn as the stakes are raised, and Cammie gets closer and closer to the shocking truth...

Why?
I loved the first two books in Ally Carter’s clever series. Both were creative with just enough romance to satisfy my love story fetish. I’ll probably buy this one as soon as it comes out and then pass it on to my niece, who loves them, too.

Sickly

2009-04-07T20:03:00.000-05:00

I planned to post some new and interesting stuff this week, but I'm sick. I even missed Manic Monday (which may be changing).

Check back soon. As soon as I feel better, I promise to make this more interesting.

M

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-04-01T23:21:00.002-05:00

What I’m Reading: Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury

What I’m Working On: Day one of my 100 pages in April Challenge. 3.3 pages per day.

Waiting on Wednesday?

What:
A MADNESS OF ANGELS (The Resurrection of Matthew Swift) by Kate Griffin.
Published by Orbit, April 6, 2009

Synopsis:
For Matthew Swift, today is not like any other day. It is the day on which he returns to life. Two years after his untimely death, Matthew Swift finds himself breathing once again, lying in bed in his London home. Except that it's no longer his bed, or his home. And the last time this sorcerer was seen alive, an unknown assailant had gouged a hole so deep in his chest that his death was irrefutable...despite his body never being found. He doesn't have long to mull over his resurrection though, or the changes that have been wrought upon him. His only concern now is vengeance. Vengeance upon his monstrous killer and vengeance upon the one who brought him back.

Why:
First, love the cover. Second, I think this is pretty unique. A dead sorcerer come back to life with vengeance on his mind, changed in ways he’s just discovering, and unknowing who’s behind his resurrection. Wow, look at all the built in twists!

Manic Monday

2009-03-30T19:01:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury

What I'm Working On: Tonight? Firming up Kevin's backstory.

Here's today's Manic Monday:

Do you enjoy brain teasers or do you find them frustrating?
I like them sometimes. Once I get going on them, I tend to be quite determined; however, I won't seek one out for fun.

Do you have any unusual collections?
Nothing unusual -- books, coffee mugs from places I've been. Yep, that's pretty much it. I'm the exact opposite of a pack rat or collector.

What do people notice about you within the first hour of meeting you (other than appearance)?
That I love books. That I have a short attention span. Technically, I've very reserved, so they might not notice much at all.

Waiting On Wednesday

2009-03-25T23:07:00.003-05:00

What I’m Reading: Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini

What I’m Working On: Adding layers to backstory. Motivation.

Waiting on Wednesday

What?
GENESIS by Bernard Beckett
Release date: April 20, 2009
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Synopsis:
Set on a remote island in a post-apocalyptic, plague-ridden world, this electrifying novel is destined to become a modern classic.

Anax thinks she knows her history. She’d better. She’s now facing three Examiners, and her grueling all-day Examination has just begun. If she passes, she’ll be admitted into the Academy—the elite governing institution of her utopian society.

But Anax is about to discover that for all her learning, the history she’s been taught isn’t the whole story. And that the Academy isn’t what she believes it to be.

In this brilliant novel of dazzling ingenuity, Anax’s examination leads us into a future where we are confronted with unresolved questions raised by science and philosophy. Centuries old, these questions have gained new urgency in the face of rapidly developing technology. What is consciousness? What makes us human? If artificial intelligence were developed to a high enough capability, what special status could humanity still claim?

Outstanding and original, Beckett’s dramatic narrative comes to a stunning close. This perfect combination of thrilling page-turner and provocative novel of ideas demands to be read again and again.

Why:
I’ve been quite interested in the post-apocalyptic, teen-angst story set lately. Maybe it was Hunger Games or perhaps it’s my writer pal’s new story. I’m not sure. Maybe it’s just the times we’re in, but I think new versions of 1984 will soon be the rage. Can’t wait to read this!

Manic Monday

2009-03-23T20:32:00.001-05:00

What I’m Reading: Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini

What I’m Working On: Writing. (Really.) I’m writing and exploring my main character’s backstory. I can’t really write the next section unless I truly understand how she will respond based on her history.

And for today's Manic Monday:

Do you screen your phone calls? Yes, both at work and on my cell. Sometimes I can deal so much better if I have a minute to listen to a message and know what the problem is in advance. In my job, I have to solve a lot of problems and deal with frustrated people. I’d rather not be ambushed.

When was the last time you lost your temper? A long time ago if you are talking a ranting temper tantrum. If you’re talking mild anger verbally expressed – yesterday.

When you're lost, do you ask for directions? Yes. I hate be lost.

A new blog thing

2009-03-22T14:23:00.004-05:00

What I'm Reading: Shocker here -- I'm in between books. Just finished Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr and haven't picked the next read. However, I'm off to B&N soon to do just that.

What I'm Working On: Really... I should just remove this from my blog.

I haven't posted a "blog thing" in awhile so I'm due for one. Here goes.......

You Are a Creek

You are a dynamic, energetic person. You tend to change quickly and often.
You are spirited and gleeful. You believe it's important to live a colorful life.

You are also quite brave. You are able to look past your fears.
You have what it takes to be very heroic. If the opportunity arises, you can use your strength.

What Body of Water Are You?

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-03-18T06:42:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr

What I'm Working On: Still staying calm

Waiting On Wednesday: WINGS by Aprilynne Pike, May 5th, 2009 by HarperTeen

Synopsis: Aprilynne Pike's WINGS is the first of four books about an ordinary girl named Laurel who discovers she is a faerie sent among humans to guard the gateway to Avalon. When Laurel is thrust into the midst of a centuries-old battle between faeries and trolls, she's torn between a human and a faerie love, as well as her loyalties to both worlds.

Why: Hmmm. Let's see. 1) Blurbed by Stephanie Meyer. 2) I love stories involving the Fae. 3) YA rocks. 4) The cover is enough of a reason to buy it. 5) It's the first in a series of 4 and I love getting hooked on new series!

Manic Monday

2009-03-16T21:40:00.000-05:00

What I’m Reading: Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr

What I’m Working On: Staying calm.

Wow. It's been a week since I blogged. Last week was quite busy and I missed my Waiting on Wednesday. Sorry about that. I was at a conference, but I'm back now and ready to go with Manic Monday. And, I have a great book chosen for Waiting on Wednesday, so tune back in then.

Here are today’s Manic Monday questions:

1. Are you a saver or spender?
Depends. I like to know I have a cushion. However, I also have some weaknesses – books, shoes, soda.

2. Do you prefer to walk around barefoot in your home? Socks? Shoes?
Depends. In the winter (what little of it we have), I want thick, comfy socks. The rest of the year, I’m barefoot (except, of course, when I need to vacuum or sweep – which is frequently – then I’m in socks).

3. Do you talk to yourself?
Yes, more often than I’d like. (Does this make me crazy?)

Manic Monday

2009-03-09T14:54:00.002-05:00

What I’m Reading: The Help by Kathryn Stockett

What I’m Working On: A page a day.

Here are today’s Manic Monday questions:

1. What would you do with an extra hour each day?
Ah, this question is so interesting. I kind of got an extra hour everyday by moving downtown so that my commute was shortened. I said I’d use it to write, but I think it mostly went to the dogs – literally. I walk them twice a day now. It’s good for them and for me.
But the real question is what would I do now with an extra hour every day? The way I see it there are two choices. 1) Write. 2) Catch up on sleep. It’s probably a toss up.

2. Do you wear a watch? If so, tell us about it. If not, how do you keep track of time?
I keep break watches, so no, I don’t wear one. I have a work cell phone that I have to take everywhere. My phone keeps my time for me.

3. If it was possible, would you want to know how many days you had left to live?
Absolutely not.

Random album cover meme

2009-03-07T23:07:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Help by Kathryn Stockett

What I'm working on: A new opening for something new.

I tagged myself with this little meme from Alyson over at Alyson Love.

Make your band's album cover!

1. Go to Wikipedia. Hit “random”or click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random

The first random Wikipedia article you get is the name of your band. Mine is Sigapatella. Sigapetalla is a genus of small to medium-sized sea snails, marine gastropod molluscs in the family Calyptraeidae which are commonly known as slipper snails, cup and saucer shells and Chinese hat shells.

2. Go to Quotations Page and select "random quotations"or click http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3. The last four or five words of the very last quote on the page is the title of your first album. Mine is One Day At A Time, from the following random quote:
How does a project get to be a year behind schedule? One day at a time. (Fred Brooks)

3. Go to Flickr and click on “explore the last seven days”or click http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days --Third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover. Mine? The guard rail on a highway.

4. Use Photoshop (or something like picnik.com, which is what I used) to put it all together.

5. Voila!

(And, yeah, mine is really random.)

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-03-04T21:39:00.002-05:00

What I’m Reading: The Help by Kathryn Stockett

What I’m Working On: My step-father-in-law has been in ICU, so writing is on the back-burner for a few days.

Waiting On Wednesday: FRAGILE ETERNITY by Melissa Marr, April 1st, 2009 by Harper Collins

Synopsis:
Seth never expected he would want to settle down with anyone—but that was before Aislinn. She is everything he'd ever dreamed of, and he wants to be with her forever. Forever takes on new meaning, though, when your girlfriend is an immortal faery queen.

Aislinn never expected to rule the very creatures who'd always terrified her—but that was before Keenan. He stole her mortality to make her a monarch, and now she faces challenges and enticements beyond any she'd ever imagined.

In Melissa Marr's third mesmerizing tale of Faerie, Seth and Aislinn struggle to stay true to themselves and each other in a milieu of shadowy rules and shifting allegiances, where old friends become new enemies and one wrong move could plunge the Earth into chaos.

Why:

First, it’s no secret that I love really good urban fantasy/fantasy YA. I just finished Marr’s WICKED LOVELY. I couldn’t put it down. I will admit that it took a chapter or two to get into, but once I was there, I was hooked. INK EXCHANGE is up next on my “too read” list so that on April 1st, I’m ready to find out what happens to Aislinn, Seth, and Keenan.

Manic Monday

2009-03-02T07:13:00.006-05:00

What I'm Reading: Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr

What I'm Working On: Writing. Yep. Really, truly.

Here are today's Manic Monday Questions:

It's going to be super-easy this week!

1. If I was a car, I'd be: In this economy, I wouldn't be a car, I'd be my cool Il Bella scooter. However, since the question said "car", I'd be an SUV Hybrid. Supposedly, the Ford Escape Hybrid is one of the best, so that'd be me. (Probably a black one!)

2. If I was a drink, I'd be: Rich, real hot chocolate made with milk and sinfully delicious chocolate, topped with whip cream and sprinkles.

3. If I was emotion, I'd be: Love. What else is there?

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-02-25T22:43:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: Just Breathe by Susan Wiggs

What I'm Working On: Tutoring, not writing tonight.

Waiting on Wednesday
Waiting on: The Girl She Used to Be by David Cristofano

Release date: March 19, 2009 by Grand Central Publishing

Synopsis: When Melody Grace McCartney was six years old, she and her parents witnessed an act of violence so brutal that it changed their lives forever. The federal government lured them into the Witness Protection Program with the promise of safety, and they went gratefully. But the program took Melody's name, her home, her innocence, and, ultimately, her family. She's been May Adams, Karen Smith, Anne Johnson, and countless others--everyone but the one person she longs to be: herself. So when the feds spirit her off to begin yet another new life in another town, she's stunned when a man confronts her and calls her by her real name. Jonathan Bovaro, the mafioso sent to hunt her down, knows her, the real her, and it's a dangerous thrill that Melody can't resist. He's insistent that she's just a pawn in the government's war against the Bovaro family. But can she trust her life and her identity to this vicious stranger whose acts of violence are legendary?

Why: First, it's billed as a romance -- by a guy. I always find it interesting to read a man's take on love and romance. (Exampe: The Bridges of Madison County -- which I love!) Second, the conflict should be pretty high, both the internal conflicts and the romance and the external problems. If it's good, I may choose it as my book club rec. Fun stuff.

PS. Sorry about missing this week's manic Monday. I missed it because this week was so, well, manic.

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-02-18T21:43:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Just Breathe by Susan Wiggs

What I'm Working On: Tutoring, not writing tonight.

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting on: Lover Avenged by J. R. Ward

Release date: April 28, 2009 by Penguin

Synopsis: The brothers are back-the latest installment in J. R. Ward's sizzling #1 New York Times bestselling series.
J. R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood novels have introduced readers to a "different, creative, dark, violent, and flat-out amazing" (All About Romance) world. Now, as the vampire warriors defend their race against their slayers, one male's loyalty to the Brotherhood will be tested-and his dangerous mixed blood revealed . . . .
Rehvenge has always kept his distance from the Brotherhood-even though his sister is married to a member, for he harbors a deadly secret that could make him a huge liability in their war against the lessers. As plots within and outside of the Brotherhood threaten to reveal the truth about Rehvenge, he turns to the only source of light in his darkening world, Ehlena, a vampire untouched by the corruption that has its hold on him-and the only thing standing between him and eternal destruction.

Why: I will admit that my TBR pile has grown so substantially that I haven't read the most recent Black Dagger Brotherhood book, but I love the series none-the-less. I'm sure I'll make time to catch up on the series before Lover Avenged comes out. Ward has created a world that I envy as a writer. She's made her vampire series shine in a genre that's becoming over-written. AND, her heroes are some of the yummiest characters in commercial fiction!

Manic Monday

2009-02-16T18:22:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: Just Breathe by Susan Wiggs

What I'm Working On: Wondering if I should go with the new idea or pursue the old one....... (help!)

Here are today's Manic Monday Questions:

1. Of all your favorite foods, which one would you find the most difficult to give up for the rest of your life?

Oh, this is tough. I love food, but my favorite food is french fries, so I'll go with that one.

2. Which month of the year do you think best describes your personality?

October. I'm an autumn person -- in coloring and disposition. I just love October!

3. If you could be a contestant on any game show, past or present, which show would you pick?

I'm not much for game shows, but I always loved The Family Feud. I used to think about who I'd take with me to feud. Hmmm...... the DH, my neice, my brother......

My scooter!!!

2009-02-14T10:29:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Translator by Dauod Hari and The Good, Good Pig by Sy Montgomery

What I'm Working On: Still working on that new idea......

I thought I'd post a few pics of my Valentine's day present from the DH. I actually got it last Sunday. I'm having so much fun on it. At about 80 mpg and $2 to fill it up, my carbon foot print is shrinking. Woo Hoo!!!!!

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-02-11T09:17:00.004-05:00

What I’m Reading: The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho and The Good, Good Pig by Sy Montgomery

What I'm Working On: Something new

"Waiting on Wednesday":

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Release date: September 1st 2009 by Scholastic, Inc.

Synopsis:

Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

Why:

Hunger Games was brilliant. It was such an amazing read. Suzanne Collins is an imaginative and story-telling genius. I'll be pre-ordering this one!!!

The Soundtrack of your Life, part 2

2009-02-10T21:24:00.001-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho and The Good, Good Pig by Sy Montgomery

What I'm Working On: Something new

It was fun to complete the Soundtrack of Your Live meme a few days ago -- so fun, in fact, that I decided to do another with the Writer's Journey. Tag. (Same rules as last time.)

The stages of the Writer's journey

1. Ordinary World: Love Me if You Can by Toby Keith
2. Call to Adventure: Switch by Will Smith
3. Refusal of the Call: Paralyzer by Finger Eleven
4. Meeting the Mentor: The Trouble I'm In by Gavin Rossdale
5. Crossing the First Threshold: Chains and Things by B. B. King
6. Tests, Allies, Enemies: Meant to Live by Switchfoot
7. Approach to the Inmost Cave: Faded by Soul Decision
8. Ordeal: Heaven by Live
9. Reward (Siezing the Sword): Realize by Colbie Cailat
10. The Road Back: If Everyone Cared by Nickelback
11. Resurrection: Fell on Black Days by Soundgarden
12. Return with the Elixir: Fear by Sarah McLachlan

Manic Monday

2009-02-09T21:12:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: A Journal for Jordan by Dana Canedy and The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho

Here are today's Manic Monday questions.

1. What is your favorite candy?
Chocolate. Dark preferably.

2. Name one thing that you'd want to receive as a gift for Valentine's day.
My DH just bought be the coolest il Bello scooter. It's the perfect V-day gift!

3.Can we truly love someone who loves another?
I think we can pine for them or wish for them, but love is a two-way street so probably not.

The Soundtrack of Your Life, part 1

2009-02-07T18:32:00.006-05:00

What I'm Reading: A Journal for Jordan by Dana Canedy and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

What I'm Working On: Uh....

I snagged this from Alyson who snagged it from Mel. It's kind of fun. If you're reading, you're tagged.

IF YOUR LIFE WAS A MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE SOUNDTRACK BE?

So, here's how it works:

1. Open your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)

2. Put it on shuffle

3. Press play

4. For every question, type the song that's playing

5. When you go to a new question, press the next button

6. No cheating and doctoring your list to make yourself look cooler than the person you took this from

Opening Credits: Clair de Lune by the APM Orchestra (from the Twilight soundtrack)

First Day at School: Seasons Change by Corinne Bailey Raye

Breaking Up: Since I've Been Loving You by Corrine Bailey Raye

Prom: Like a Star by Corrine Bailey Raye (no, she is not the only artist on my ipod)

Sex Scene: The Thrill is Gone by B.B.King (hmm, not sure what that's saying....)

Life’s Ok: Save Me by Shine Down

Mental: Gotta Be Somebody by Nickelback

Flashback: Everybody's Fool by Evanescence

Getting Back Together: Full Moon by the Black Ghosts (From the Twilight Soundtrack)

Wedding Scene: Come a Little Closer by Dierks Bentley

Birth of Child: Not Ready to Make Nice by the Dixie Chicks

Falling In Love: More Time by NeedtoBreathe (From the P.S. I Love You soundtrack

Final Battle: Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd

Death Scene: Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns

End Credits: Call Me by Shinedown

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-02-04T18:13:00.003-05:00

What I’m Reading: Finding Nouf by Zoe Ferraris, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and A Journal for Jordan by Dana Canedy

"Waiting on Wednesday":

Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas
Release date: March 31st 2009 by St. Martin's Press

Synopsis:
Jack Travis leads the uncomplicated life of a millionaire Texas playboy. He makes no commitments, he loves many women, he lives for pleasure. But no one has ever truly touched his heart or soul. Until one day, a woman appears on his doorstep with fury on her face and a baby in her arms. It seems Jack is the father and this woman is the baby’s aunt. The real mother has abandoned the child to her more responsible sister. And now, Jack is being called upon to take responsibility for the first time in his life. With delicious romantic tension, characters so real they walk onto the page and into your heart, Lisa Kleypas delivers the kind of novel that makes you laugh, love; cry and cheer.

Why:
Because Sugar Daddy and Blue-Eyed Devil were two of the best books I read last year. Enough said.

Manic Monday

2009-02-02T22:17:00.002-05:00

What I’m Reading: Finding Nouf by Zoe Ferraris, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and A Journal for Jordan by Dana Canedy

What I’m Working On: Didn’t I promise to start writing? Okay. Today I’ll do it. 100 words a day will at least be a start.

Here are this week’s Manic Monday Questions. If you’re reading, you’re tagged.

1. What's the most embarrassing song on your iPod (or music collection)?
Oh, wow. Do you remember that band Enigma with the dance/Gregorian chant music from the 80’s? Yeah, that.

2. How much time do you spend each day in your commute? (Or if you don't work outside the house, how much time do you spend in your car or other preferred mode of transportation?)
I actually only commute about 5 minutes to work. It’s very nice. I sometimes run some errands but they are short distances, too, at 5 or 10 minutes at the most. I’m very lucky.

3. What's your favorite wardrobe item and why?
My jeans and soft long sleeve t-shirts (Gap t-shirt). I could live my whole life in jeans and t-shirts. They are comfortable and very me and very dressed down. I'm not a dressed up sort of person by choice.

25 Random Things

2009-01-31T21:35:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, A Journal for Jordan by Dana Canedy, and Finding Nouf by Zoe Ferraris.

What I'm Working On: Tomorrow I will be working on writing again. A two month haitus has clarified alot for me.

25 Random Things
I was tagged at Facebook to write 25 random things about myself and post them. I decided to post them here, too. If you're reading, your tagged.

1. I’d rather read than watch TV. Any. Day. Of. The. Week. Last year, I read 67 books.
2. I’m a mountain person. People either tend to be mountain people or beach people. I live 45 minutes from the beach and (other than last March) went for YEARS without visiting it. On the other hand, when I lived in Arizona, I made it to the mountains several times a month.
3. I’m a nomad. It’s unfortunate that I seem to get stuck living in one place for so long. When the kids are out of school, I want to explore the world.
4. Really good, made from scratch, with the skin-still-on-the-potatoes French fries are my favorite food.
5. I have 3 college degrees and am getting ready to start a 4th. I love going to school. All 3 degrees are different. Vastly. I guess I get bored easily and always need a change of pace. I have a BSEd in Biology and PE, an MS in Exercise Science/Human Physiology, an EdS in Curriculum and Instruction, and I’m about to start a new masters program in Writing Popular Fiction.
6. Yes, I like to write. Love it. When I grow up (don’t laugh), I want to be writer – fiction, probably YA or literary.
7. My hero is Dr. Paul Farmer. He started Partners in Health. There is a book about him. It’s called Mountains Beyond Mountains. I think he’s an amazing example of what the heroic actions of one determined person can do.
8. I have four dogs. If I lived in the country, I’d have more. Maggie is a Chow-mix mutt. Rex is a Golden retriever mix. Cipy and Alice are retired racing greyhounds.
9. I once smoked a cigar. Just once. It turned my throat and tongue black and tasted awful for hours. I kept getting up from bed all night to brush my teeth. I brushed by tongue until it was raw. Yuk. Yuk. Yuk.
10. I like to cook. I love trying new recipes and mixing new ingredients together. However, I’m not much of a baker. I don’t enjoy that at all.
11. The place I most want to visit before I die is Israel.
12. I’m completely unable to file things. If I do, I can never find it. I like stacks. Or very generic files that say things like “January”. I can always remember where something is in a stack or a “time-related” file. But otherwise, I’m hopeless.
13. I think Buffy the Vampire Slayer was the all time best TV series ever, ever, ever. The writing was brilliant. The story arcs were perfect. The conflicts exquisite. I loved that show!
14. Fall is my favorite season. (Not in Florida, but in places where you have real fall.) I like the cool bite of the air, the shade of the sky, and the colors of the leaves. Equinoxes are so much more interesting than Solstices. Plus, it’s football season.
15. I believe the best plan is one that can be easily changed. I like extreme flexibility.
16. Ever since I hit about 35, I can’t ride roller coasters, which is sad since I used to love them so much. I have real problems with motion sickness on them. Apparently, it’s tied to the migraines I’ve been having since then, too. The doc says the migraines are hormonal and that when I hit menopause (what fun) they might go away. Maybe I’ll be able to ride roller coasters again then, too.
17. I’ve voted Republican and Democrat in presidential elections almost an even number of times. I’m truly the person to which politicians are campaigning. This year, I was Obama all the way!!
18. I’m an introvert and need quality alone time to recharge my batteries.
19. I like having a fully stocked pantry, but I detest grocery shopping.
20. I don’t see the point in going “window shopping.” If you’re going to shop, it should be with a purpose. Plan on buying something.
21. I would love to live in a city where a car was completely unnecessary. Maybe Manhattan or London. I could totally get into public transportation in a city where it was efficient and well run. I like the compactness of Manhattan and London. I’m not a fan of urban sprawl.
22. No matter how many times I snorkel and despite the vastness of the ocean, I always feel completely claustrophobic wearing a mask and snorkel.
23. On the Meyer’s Briggs, I’m an INTJ (and occasionally, like 10% of the time, an INTP).
24. I once hiked rim to base to rim in the Grand Canyon in one day. The next day, I couldn’t move.
25. My glasses are progressive lenses. Isn’t that pathetic? I’m forty and basically have bifocals.

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-01-28T13:38:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Close to Shore by Michael Capuzzo, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and A Journal for Jordan by Dana Canedy.

What I'm Working On: Why do I never have a good way to answer this question?

"Waiting on Wednesday":

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Release date: February 10th 2009 by Putnam Adult

Synopsis:
Three ordinary women are about to take one extraordinary step.Twenty-two-year-old Skeeter has just returned home after graduating from Ole Miss. She may have a degree, but it is 1962, Mississippi, and her mother will not be happy till Skeeter has a ring on her finger. Skeeter would normally find solace with her beloved maid Constantine, the woman who raised her, but Constantine has disappeared and no one will tell Skeeter where she has gone.Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.Minny, Aibileen's best friend, is short, fat, and perhaps the sassiest woman in Mississippi. She can cook like nobody's business, but she can't mind her tongue, so she's lost yet another job. Minny finally finds a position working for someone too new to town to know her reputation. But her new boss has secrets of her own.Seemingly as different from one another as can be, these women will nonetheless come together for a clandestine project that will put them all at risk. And why? Because they are suffocating within the lines that define their town and their times. And sometimes lines are made to be crossed.In pitch-perfect voices, Kathryn Stockett creates three extraordinary women whose determination to start a movement of their own forever changes a town, and the way women—mothers, daughters, caregivers, friends—view one another. A deeply moving novel filled with poignancy, humor, and hope, The Help is a timeless and universal story about the lines we abide by, and the ones we don't.

Why:
Look how far we've come, baby!! It might be good to remember where we've been and why it was so bad and to celebrate the little things people did to get us where we are today. I read a great novel about the evil's of racism last year. I hope this one is just as inspiring.

Manic Monday

2009-01-26T17:35:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: A Journal for Jordan by Dana Canedy, Close to Shore by Michael Capuzzo, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

What I'm Working On: I'm actually going to write something today -- probably notes by hand, but that counts.

In an effort to blog more -- and more interestingly this year -- I'm trying to find some standard blogs that I can always count on. I discovered Manic Monday. I love that it's so random. I'm going to try to participate for awhile.

The point is to answer the random questions posted every Monday. This Monday's questions are:

1. What gives you hope?
For me, I guess hope comes from seeing the world and people as they could be, not as they are. I make a point to look for ways to see this. God gives me hope, too. For what it's worth, I believe in a loving, forgiving God, and for a person who messes up alot (like me) that is a very hopeful consolation.

2. How often do you get your haircut? Describe your worst haircut.
About every 6 to 8 weeks. This usually includes new color, too. My worst haircut must have been when I was about 13 or so. My mom took me to a new lady and she waited in the car while I went in. I kept telling the lady that my bangs curled in a weird way and that she should leave them long. She didn't listen and instead whacked them off. The were awful and curled up so tight that it looked like I had no bangs at all. I wanted to pretend I was sick for a week.

3.What's your most treasured piece of jewelry? Why?
My wedding ring. And, seriously, do you need to ask?

So, if you're reading this, you're tagged. Post away.

M

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-01-21T17:19:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: Close to Shore by Michael Capuzzo, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and Tomorrow When the War Began by John Marsden

What I’m Working On: Does writing and editing for the day job count?

“Waiting on Wednesday”:

Taken by Storm by Angela Morrison

Release date: March 5th 2009 by Razorbill

Synopsis:

Leesie Hunt has many rules: No kissing. No sex. No dating outside the Mormon faith.
When Michael Walden—a deep-sea diver who lost his parents in a violent hurricane—arrives in town, Leesie sees someone who needs her. They fall for one another, even though his dreams are tied to the depths of the ocean and hers to salvation above.
Will their intense chemistry be too strong to resist?
Leesie and Michael must make the hardest choice of their lives: whether to follow their beliefs or their hearts.
Readers will be swept away by this tale of forbidden romance told in online chats, Leesie’s chapbook poems, and Michael’s dive log. It’s as steamy as Twilight and just as clean.

Why:

I thought Twilight was an amazing teen romance. I love it when an author gets the sexual tension of falling in love right. I'm hope it's as good as it sounds.

MLK

2009-01-19T10:26:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Close to Shore by Michael Capuzzo, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and Tomorrow When the War Began by John Marsden

What I'm Working On: Not writing. Sad but true.

In honor of MLK, here is the complete text of his now famous I Have A Dream speech. Read it. Remember. Look forward to a great future. Change is coming.

I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languishing in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. So we have come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. So we have come to cash this check — a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.

We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. They have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone.

As we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back. There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied, as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating "For Whites Only". We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from areas where your quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive.

Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed. Let us not wallow in the valley of despair.

I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification; one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."

And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania!

Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado!

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California!

But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee!

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-01-14T10:40:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, Close to Shore by Michael Capuzzo, and Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

What I'm Working On: Jotting notes for how Slayer needs to change.

Over at The Magic of Ink, the author has a regular post called “Waiting on Wednesday”. I love it. As best I can tell, the author posts a book that is yet to be published that she’s eager to read – or waiting on. I love that. I think I’ll adopt it.

Of course, if the author of The Magic of Ink objects, she simply needs to let me know and I’ll cease and desist.

“Waiting on Wednesday”: The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan.
Release date: March 10th 2009 by Delacorte Press

Synopsis:
In Mary's world there are simple truths. The Sisterhood always knows best. The Guardians will protect and serve. The Unconsecrated will never relent. And you must always mind the fence that surrounds the village; the fence that protects the village from the Forest of Hands and Teeth. But, slowly, Mary’s truths are failing her. She’s learning things she never wanted to know about the Sisterhood and its secrets, and the Guardians and their power, and about the Unconsecrated and their relentlessness. When the fence is breached and her world is thrown into chaos, she must choose between her village and her future—between the one she loves and the one who loves her. And she must face the truth about the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Could there be life outside a world surrounded in so much death?

I love supporting new authors. Plus this book sounds like it's right up my alley -- a mysterious big bad evil, a girl with no good choices to make (but choices nonetheless), and whole new world to fall in love with. I can't wait.

(Thanks Magic of Ink for a great idea.)

Michelle

Not so resolutions

2009-01-12T20:06:00.004-05:00

What I'm Reading: Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, Close to Shore by Michael Capuzzo, and Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

What I'm Working On: Avoidance (I'm quite good so far.....)

So, about those resolutions I was going to post.....
I frankly haven't been feeling that introspective. I've been worrying alot -- an old habit of mine that I hate -- which doesn't leave much energy for anything else.

I really need to change that.

So, if I were going to make resolutions -- and I am, I swear -- I would make the following (give or take a few):

1) Read alot. Last year I did the 8 books in 8 categories in 08 challenge. This year, as you can probably guess, it's 9 books in 9 categories in 09 challenge. For the math challenged, that's 81 books. There is absolutely no way I can do that. However, I like the idea of 9 categories. If I do 7 books in 9 categories for 09, then I'll manage to read at least 63. That's more doable. So, despite the fact that it's not at all catchy, that's my reading challenge. I'll post my highly-likely-to-change-because-I'm-fickle categories in a few days.

2) Make sure at least one category is non-fiction. I did that last year. I read 8 non-fiction books. I'm not a huge non-fiction fan, so I thought I might not make it, but I did. I like that I actually read non-fiction, so continuing to read it will be another resolution.

3) See how people are like me before I notice how they are different. Isn't this just a good rule?

4) Workout. Seriously, this may be why I'm not making real resolutions yet -- I'd actually have to at least pretend to try to follow through and the gym has just not been calling my name.

5) Appreciate the really important things more by making more time for them. This means family and friends because, really, after that, what is there?

6) Invest more time in my faith. This means being more diligent about going to and getting involved at my church, and reading and studying my Bible and other Christian writings more.

7) Write regularly. So far, again, I've not been in the mood. However, I want to write and finish something this year. This means, I'll probably rewrite Slayer. Again. But it's evolving in a new direction which is away from the traditional, paranormal, hot romance that it once was to something more teenish, more horrorish, more darkly hopeful, less happy-endingish. I know, I know........

Okay, that's my list of not-so-resolution resolutions. Since I missed the January 1st start day, I just need to pick a day to get going. (No, it won't be tomorrow.)

Michelle

The resolutions have to wait

2009-01-06T18:35:00.007-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Society of S by Susan Hubbard and Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

What I'm Working on: I seriously have to remove this question if I continually can't answer it.

The resolutions and goals are forthcoming -- as soon as I get some much needed rest. Yes, I know: I was supposed to rest on holiday. Whatever. That didn't happen. However, I have nothing real planned this weekend, so after some downtime for the brain, I'll post my resolutions.

In the meantime, here are some photos from my trip to London and York for your entertainment.

The York Minster

The London Bridge

The bro, oldest niece and me talking to a Beefeater at the Tower of London

My much-missed nieces

The 888 challenge recap

2009-01-02T19:37:00.006-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Society of S by Susan Hubbard and Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

What I'm Working on: Reacclimating to the eastern time zone. I said I'd start writing again. Yesterday. I got in REALLY late from London last night so I think maybe I should aim to start on Monday. (Seriously. Monday is it.)

Last year about this time, I took the 8 books in 8 categories in 2008 challenge. (The 888 challenge.) I made it. Actually, I surpassed it. I read 67 books in all. Of course, if you're comparing, I made DRAMATIC changes to what I proposed to read, but really, I am nothing if not flexible. The best plan, in my opinion, is one that's easy to change.

In the end, here's what I read last year. What did you read?

888 Challenge*8 books/8 categories*

I. Romance novels:
1. The CEO’s Scandalous Affair (The Garrison’s) by Roxanne St. Claire
2. Seduced by the Wealthy Playboy (The Garrison’s) by Sara Orwig
3. Burning Up by Sarah Mayberry
4. His Style of Seduction by Roxanne St. Claire
5. The Mercenary by Cherry Adair
6. The Sins of His Past by Roxanne St. Claire
7. Dark Seduction by Brenda Joyce
8. Driven by Eve Kenin
9. It Had To Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

II. Continue 8 series I’ve already started:
1. The Unsung Hero by Suzanne Brockmann (starts the Trouble Shooters series – which I read out of order)
2. Blood Fever by Karen Marie Moning (2nd in Moning’s Fever series)
3. Eclipse by Stephanie Meyers (3rd in the Twilight series)
4. Blue-Eyed Devil by Lisa Kleypas (sequel to Sugar Daddy)
5. Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy by Ally Carter (sequel to I’d Tell You…)
6. Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer (4th in the Twilight series)
7. The Hollow by Nora Roberts (2nd in the Sign of Seven trilogy)
8. Faefever by Karen Marie Moning (3rd in Moning’s Fever series)

III. Young Adult/Youth:
1. Raven’s Gate by Anthony Horowitz
2. Over Sea, Under Stone: Book 1 of the Dark is Rising Sequence by Susan Cooper
3. Green Angel by Alice Hoffman
4. How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff
5. London Calling by Edward Bloor
6. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
7. Gossamer by Lois Lowry
8. Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen
9. The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
10. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart

IV. Book Club books (TBA – of course – as we select them):
1. Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas (Discussion on January 14th)
2. Poison Study by Maria Snyder (Discussion February 10th)
3. Breaking Point by Suzanne Brockmann (Discussion March 9th)
4. Can You Keep a Secret by Sophia Kinsella (April discussion)
5. I’d Tell You I Love You, But Then I’d Have to Kill You by Ally Carter (May discussion)
6. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd (June discussion)
7. The Hundred Secret Senses by Amy Tan (September discussion)
8. Splendid by Julia Quinn (October discussion)

V. Just Fiction:
1. The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
2. the Host by Stephanie Meyer
3. Austenland by Shannon Hale
4. Blood Brothers by Nora Roberts
5. Brothers by Da Chen
6. The Gift of Rain by Tan Twan Eng
7. The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn
8. The Lonely Crossing of Juan Cabrera by J. Joaquin Fraxedas

VI. Books by Authors I’ve Never Read Before:
1. Madapple by Christina Meldrum
2. Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn
3. Runemarks by Joanne Harris
4. How Far is the Ocean from Here by Amy Shearn
5. Lay that Trumpet in Our Hands by Susan Carol McCarthy
6. When the Emperor was Divine by Julie Otsuka
7. The Wave by Todd Strasser
8. The Dew Breaker by Edwidge Danticat

VII. Audio Books:
1. In the Country of Men by Hisham Matar
2. The Horse and His Boy by C. S. Lewis
3. Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
4. Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones
5. The Charm School by Nelson DeMille
6. The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
7. The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen
8. The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier

VIII. Non-fiction:
1. Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World by Tracy Kidder
2. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah
3. Writing the Break-Out Novel by Donald Maass
4. Socratic Circles: Fostering Critical and Creative Thinking in Middle and High School by Matt Copeland
5. What’s So Amazing About Grace by Philip Yancy
6. From Bagdad to America: Life Lessons from a Dog Named Lava by Jay Kopelman
7. A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers will Rule the Future by Daniel H. Pink
8. Scratch Beginnings: Me, $25, and the Search for the American Dream by Adam Shepard

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T23:32:00.000-05:00

Wow. Am I tired!!! Just back from the UK. I'll have fun posts later, but I wanted to say Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T13:23:00.002-05:00

I'm leaving for the UK soon. Today. In a few hours. I'll write when I get back. This is a picture of where I'm going -- York, UK. I hope to have pictures of my own to post when I return.

Merry Christmas everyone!!!

40

2008-12-21T22:56:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: It Had To Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

What I'm Working On: Vacation. I'm taking off from writing until January 1st, then I have to jump back in.

I turned 40 today. It's really hard to believe that I've been alive for 4 decades. I mean, mentally, I still see myself as about 26. So, when did 40 happen?

Actually, most of my friends have been in their 40's for awhile now. They say the 40's are great, so I'm looking forward to them.

In honor of 40, here are a couple of quotes:

“Women are most fascinating between the ages of 35 and 40 after they have won a few races and know how to pace themselves. Since few women ever pass 40, maximum fascination can continue indefinitely.” Christian Dior

"If life really begins on your 40th birthday, it's because that's when women finally get it… the guts to take back their lives." Laura Randolf

Here's to hoping I get another 40!
M

Impending Birthday

2008-12-20T19:11:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: It Had To Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

What I'm Working On: Vacation. I'm taking off from writing until January 1st, then I have to jump back in.

My birthday is tomorrow. In its honor, here's a little blogthing.
(I like being called a "Maverick" -- sort of -- but it doesn't really describe me.)

You Are a Maverick

You're a restless rebel with an unpredictable nature.
Bright but unbridled, you tend to seek out wild experiences over new ideas.
People are frustrated by your great potential, but you love your unconventional life.
You're a heartbreaker. People get attached to you, and then you're gone.

Your strength: Your thirst for adventure

Your weakness: Not taking time for slow pleasures

Your power color: Hot pink

Your power symbol: Figure eight

Your power month: March

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Cookies make everyone feel better

2008-12-19T19:15:00.001-05:00

What I’m Reading: It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

What I’m Working On: Holding it together

You Are Biscotti

You are a very direct, honest person.
You don't have time for dramatics or emotional pleas.

You feel most comfortable in the intellectual realm, especially with science and technology.
You are good at understanding difficult subjects. Understanding people? Not so much.

What Holiday Cookie Are You?

Yep, that's me.

Mourning

2008-12-17T20:54:00.001-05:00

What I’m Reading: It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

What I’m Working On: Holding it together

My friend died yesterday.

She was 38. Barely. Her birthday was last month.

She had acute leukemia. What a horrible disease. Two and a half months ago she was healthy, laughing and joking with me at a high school football game.

Last night she died. Her son is 7.

I don’t understand.

It should not have been her.

Not yet. Not yesterday.

Can’t we all have just one more tomorrow?

I’ve never seen anyone’s eyes dance quite like hers did when she would watch her red-headed little boy. Perfect peace. Perfect happiness.

I really think that for just a little while the world should stop. Birds should stop flying. The wind should cease to blow. Everyone should freeze and take a moment to be still. For my friend.

But that doesn’t happen. We’re such fragile, irreverent beings. The world is massive compared to us. It keeps on moving, and we accept that. What else can we do?

Dogs bark. Cars whiz by. The world moves on.

People continue to live. And, of course, she would have wanted that.

But I want it to stop. I want to feel the gasp of humanity at the loss of such an amazing person. Just a pause. To mourn.

And I want to break the silence with a shout of anger. This is not what I was praying for! Did You need her that badly? We needed her, too.

Her name is still in my phone. The text messages to her to say, “I love you.” Her replies from the hospital, “Come sing for me so I can laugh.”

Smile and cry. Smile and cry.

M

Just another quiz....

2008-12-15T18:33:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

What I'm Working On: Keeping one nostril above water this holiday season

I'm seriously in a creative slump. It's that time of year when I can't come up with new ideas. I'd love to be super creative and make new and yummy Christmas treats, experiment with new dishes in the kitchen, and write page after page of brilliant prose. But it ain't happening.

It usually never happens in December.

As much as I love the holidays, I find them VERY stressful...so with that in mind comes yet another lame blog.

Enjoy.
M

Having Too Much To Do Is What Stresses You Out About the Holidays

You love the holidays. You love them so much that you end up taking on too many responsibilities.
Your heart is in the right place, but you don't have the time to get it all done.

Consider doing a little less. Don't bake that last batch of cookies or go for that Christmas Eve shopping run.
You'll still be giving the people you love what they want most... time with you!

What Stresses You Out About the Holidays?

Which of Santa's Reindeer Are You?

2008-12-11T17:01:00.002-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Lonely Crossing of Juan Cabrera by J. Joaquin Fraxedas and The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

What I'm Working On: Keeping one nostril above water this holiday season

I've been really preoccupied this December so blogging has been getting neglected -- as has writing. Hopefully, that will change soon.

However, here's a fun quiz for the merry season. Enjoy.

You Are Cupid

A total romantic, you're always crushing on a new reindeer.

Why You're Naughty: You've caused so much drama, all the reindeers aren't speaking to each other.

Why You're Nice: You have a knack for playing matchmaker. You even hooked Rudolph up!

Which of Santa's Reindeer Are You?

Tis the season

2008-12-04T21:15:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Lonely Crossing of Juan Cabrera by J. Joaquin Fraxedas and A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers will Rule the Future by Daniel H. Pink

What I'm Working on: Procrastinating. I'm very good at that.

I love the month that stretches between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The last days of fall are my favorites. My birthday falls on the winter solstice, and somehow that just seems right to me.

In the spirit of Christmas, here's a little quiz:

What The Holidays Mean to You

For you, the holidays are about celebration. You enjoy all the fun and fellowship that the holidays bring.

You celebrate the holidays in a minimalist style. You are likely to only give one great present and decorate your house with a few special items.

During the holidays, you feel magical. You love all of the decorations and how happy people are. You like to sit back and take it all in.

You think the holidays should be nostalgic and sweet. The holidays bring out your inner child.

Your best holiday memories are warm and intimate. You remember special moments more than gifts or parties.

What Do the Holidays Mean to You?

The best and brightest

2008-12-02T21:56:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Lonely Crossing of Juan Cabrera by J. Joaquin Fraxedas

What I'm Working on: Finishing up the tasks that have to be done for my family so I can get back to the writing.

I recently attended a conference where I heard a very well respected leader of independent schools speak. He said something that got me fired up.

First, let me say that while I aspire to be a writer and will keep pursuing that until it happens, I have a bill-paying career in private education.

Back to the story....
This well-respected individual informed us that those people typically going into education are in the bottom 30% of their college classes. I believe this. I don't like it, but I believe it. He pointed out that the "really smart ones" are going into business, medicine, law, etc. I think this is so sad. It's sort of proves that old adage -- those who can do, those who can't, teach.

I don't like it, but in many cases it's probably true. Don't get me wrong, I think alot of really smart people become teachers because that's where their callings and passions lie, but education isn't attracting the best and the brightest.

How much does the federal government spend on education each year?

Almost 60 million. (http://www.ed.gov/about/overview/budget/budget09/summary/appendix1.pdf)

Not alot considering we're spending billions to bail out banks and a fighter jet costs over twice that.

Maybe if our government valued education a little more and showed it with some dinero, our best and brightest might say, "Hmm... medicine or education? Wow, that's a tough one. They're both great careers."

In the meantime, I'll keep living the good life on my whopping salary as I search out the best and brightest to teach at my favorite school.

M

Black Friday

2008-11-28T22:12:00.001-05:00

In honor of those who shop.....

You Are a Discount Shopper

You love to get things as cheaply as possible. You live for sales.
It's partially because you like to save money, but it's also because you like the thrill of finding a fabulous deal.

Of all the types, you tend to shop frequently but rarely by. You keep an eye on prices.
Brand names are not that important to you. You know how to have style without collecting designer tags.

What Kind of Shopper Are You?

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T19:15:00.001-05:00

Writing as Art

2008-11-24T21:59:00.001-05:00

What I’m Reading: The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier and The Lonely Crossing of Juan Cabrera by J. Joaquin Fraxedas

What I’m Working On: Working?

Being a writer is hard.

So many people think, “Oh, I’ll just sit down and write a book.”

Ok. Do it. All the way. Start to finish. It’s harder than you think.

Writing is art. When you ask people to give you a list of artistic endeavors, many won’t even mention writing. Oh, they might mention poetry, but fiction – nah. Non-fiction? No way.

But writing is art. The blank page is the canvas.

It’s a challenging form of art.

Painters have the visual clues. Did I get the right shade of blue for just that moment at twilight? Is the shadow on that lily realistic? What emotion is on his face?

Musicians have the auditory cues. Does this melody match that lyric? Should I write this song in a minor chord?

But writers…. We have to invoke the senses of not just sight and sound, but also touch and smell and taste with black type and white paper.

Can the reader see the storm rolling across the lake, kicking up small white waves in its path? Can she smell the homemade cinnamon rolls her grandmother’s arthritic hands are removing from the oven? Can she hear the laughter of the little girl that reminds her so much of her own lost daughter? Can he taste the metallic tang of his own blood where his teeth cut into his gums? Damn. That little guy packed a punch. Can she feel the barely-there pressure of his warm hand on the small of her back as he guides her into the room? Will she ever forget that simple caress was his first touch?

So, if you’re a writer, big kudos for doing what you do. And even when it's tough, keep doing it.

M

(Sigh) Twilight at last

2008-11-20T20:09:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier, The Lonely Crossing of Juan Cabrera by J. Joaquin Fraxedas, and The Wave by Todd Strasser.

What I'm Working On: Finding my way in this new iteration of Slayer.

The TWILIGHT movie starts at midnight. OMG. I can't wait to see it. (My tickets are for Sunday morning at 10:45 as I'm hoping to avoid the teenage girl rush earlier in the weekend.)

Want to see what the buzz is all about? Check it out. (Mind you, if you don't know what the buzz is all about, well, I'm not sure how that happened.....)

Twilight: Official Movie Site
Stephanie Meyer's official website
The Twilight Saga (Click here if you're clueless as to what Twilight is.)

My favorite high school had a Twilight party today. The very cool, ultra hip librarian thought we might have 80 girls turn out. (The high school has 760 total students -- about half boys and half girls.) Over 250 kids came for a 15 minute party and raffle during mid-morning break. It was overwhelming.

If you see the movie, let me know what you think. If you read the books, let me know, too.

As a quick aside, Donald Maass asked me if I "slogged" through Twilight.

Uh, no. No, I voraciously ate up all four books. (Even Master Donald doesn't know everything.)

M

Tension in dialogue, exposition, and action

2008-11-19T19:52:00.007-05:00

What I'm Reading: (This is a difficult question to answer these days since I'm midway into the selection of my fav high school's next community book. I'm reading about 10 things at once. I discard what won't work and keep reading what will. I hope to come back and finish all of the books on my desk someday.) The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier and The Wave by Todd Strasser.

What I'm Working On: The rewrite. Slayer 3.0.

I promised some notes from Master Donald's Tension on Every Page Workshop. It's a great, intense, albeit not cheap workshop. Everyone should take it.

The first day we looked at microtension in dialogue, exposition, and action. We learned ways to put tension on every page, in every paragraph.

Yes, it is as hard as it sounds.

However, Donald gave us a few keys to remember. In dialogue, the tension occurs between people and it shows up in what is said, not the auxiliary actions and anecdotal thoughts of the speakers. We practiced putting all the tension into the spoken word -- no tags, no anything but dialogue. We looked at pages from Jayne Ann Krentz's White Lies as an example of how to do this well -- subtly in this case, but well. (Check out pages 38-39. What do you think?)

In exposition, the tension is inside the POV (point of view). We checked out Scott Westerfield's Pretties to see how it's done. The key is to create a situation where the character feels or wants two opposing things at the same time or where the character should clearly feel one way, but -- surprise -- she feels exactly opposite of what we expect. (We studied pages 44-45.)

Tension in action follows a similar pattern. You create the tension through emotions in conflict or ideas at war. "The door flew open and Daphne dove away from the intruder. She skidded across the floor and smashed into a file cabinet." BORING! The previous little passage is action, but there's nothing to it that scares us or keeps us reading. Instead, it sounds more like the assembly directions for a bicycle in a box. "Daphne held her breath. She couldn't decide whether she wanted the intruder to open her door or not. He'd keep looking until he found her. Wasn't it better to just get it over now? She didn't have to wait long. The door swung open, but Daphne's self-preservation instinct kicked in as she dove out of sight. She might have made it, too, if her momentum hadn't crashed her into the tall file cabinet." Ok, so no, it's not Pulitzer prize winning, but it's WAY better than the first attempt. (Come on. Admit it.)

I realize this all sounds very easy, but you try it. Add that sort of tension to a page.

.... and then do it 399 more times. (That's the hard part.)

Next time: Backstory!

Happy writing!
M

I need direction

2008-11-17T17:53:00.005-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Wave by Todd Strasser

What I'm working on: Staying calm when it comes to writing.

I went to Donald Maass's workshop Tension on Every Page in Tampa about a week and a half ago. It was a 4 day workshop. It was intense -- so intense that I needed a week to recover to even know what direction I should take now.

First, I should write. Just do it. Stop thinking about it.

Second, I should stop trying to put myself in a box. I don't really write romance -- not really -- maybe just a little. Or YA. Or fantasy/urban fantasy. What I write is sort of in the middle. That's okay.

Third, like Donald said, sometimes (most of the time) it's easier just to turn the page over and write something better than trying to edit it. (It's true. I'd experienced that before even going to his workshop, but it doesn't make starting over AGAIN any easier.)

Fourth, I need to look at how I spend my time. I think there is more time to write there than I think there is, but I will be the first to admit that the scariest part is that even if I find tons of time to write and even if I get it perfect, even then I might fail. (Failure = manuscript that can't find an agent or a home.)

Fifth, I got into Seton Hill's MA program in Writing Popular Fiction. I can start in January, but for so many reasons, June is looking better and better. I really need to decide what to do before Friday -- yes, this Friday. (And, yikes, this alone scars the poopy out of me.)

Maybe I'm having perfectionistic fear issues today.

Hmm, not sure I ended up with anything blog worthy here -- or any direction -- but it's getting posted anyway.

Next post: Tension in dialogue, exposition, and action -- ideas from master Donald.

M

Color me

2008-11-14T05:25:00.001-05:00

What I'm Reading: Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen and The Wave by Todd Strasser

What I'm working on: Recuperating from the Donald Maass Workshop I attended last week.

I'll blog later about the Maass workshop. My brain is still sputtering and coughing to organized the new knowledge. I need some more process time in order to put it all out there.

Since my brain is so overwhelmed right now, I'll post something lame and easy.........

The Ultimate Color Test

When you are at peace, you are:

Deeply stable

When you are moved to act, you are:

Giving and warm

When you are inspired, you are:

Creative and productive

When your life is perfectly balanced, you are:

Philosophical and expressive

Your life's purpose is:

To live a passionate life

The Ultimate Color Test

The day after

2008-11-05T19:40:00.004-05:00

What I'm Reading: Just the blogs and articles about this amazing and historic election. It's about time!

What I'm Working On: Getting ready for tomorrow's Donald Maass workshop.

I could blog about the election, but EVERYONE is doing that. It is sufficient to say that we have witnessed unforgettable history and I'm very proud to be an American!

With all the jubilation, there is a sad note. It's not related to the election but rather to one of my favorite all-time authors -- Michael Crichton. In reverence to his passing, please take a moment out of celebrating to mourn literature's great loss.

M

Here's the article:

Michael Crichton Dies of Cancer

Michael Crichton, the million-selling author of such historic and prehistoric science thrillers as "Jurassic Park," "Timeline" and "The Andromeda Strain" has died of cancer, his family said.

He died Tuesday in Los Angeles at age 66 after a long battle with the illness.

Chrichton was a brand-name author, known for his stories of disaster and systematic breakdown, such as the rampant microbe of "The Andromeda Strain" or dinosaurs running amok in "Jurassic Park," one of his many books that became major Hollywood movies.

"Through his books, Michael Crichton served as an inspiration to students of all ages, challenged scientists in many fields, and illuminated the mysteries of the world in a way we could all understand," his family said in a statement.

The 6-foot-9-inch author was also a screenwriter and filmmaker, earning producing and writing credits for the film versions of many of his titles. He also created the TV hospital series "ER" in 1994.

In recent years, he was the rare writer to get on well with President Bush, perhaps because of his skepticism about global warming, which Crichton addressed in the 2004 novel, "State of Favor." Crichton's views were strongly condemned by environmentalists, who alleged that the author was hurting efforts to pass legislation to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide.

A new novel by Crichton had been tentatively scheduled to come next month, but publisher HarperCollins said the book was postponed indefinitely because of his illness.

"While the world knew him as a great storyteller that challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us and entertained us all while doing so his wife Sherri, daughter Taylor, family and friends knew Michael Crichton as a devoted husband, loving father and generous friend who inspired each of us to strive to see the wonders of our world through new eyes," his family said.

http://movies.yahoo.com/mv/news/ap/20081105/122592228000.html

Get out and vote!

2008-11-01T20:49:00.003-05:00

What I'm Reading: Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen

What I'm working on: Getting ready for the Donald Maass Workshop I'm attending this week.

Countdown to November 4th and the change we need!
Hey everyone, get out and vote!

Halloween countdown, part 4

2008-10-30T20:11:00.006-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen (just finishing it up)

What I'm Working On: Juggling writing and a really busy week at the bill-paying job. Also, trying to decide whether I should tackle Nanowrimo or not.

Since I want to finish up The Last Town on Earth by tomorrow, I'm going to make this a short post. Have a happy halloween tomorrow!

What kind of monster are you?

You Are an Alien

You're so strange, people occasionally wonder if you're from another world.
You don't try to be different, but you see most things from a very unique, very offbeat perspective.
Brilliant to the point of genius, you definitely have some advanced intelligence going on.
No matter what circles you travel in, you always feel like a stranger. And it's a feeling you've learned to like.

Your greatest power: Your superhuman brain

Your greatest weakness: Your lack of empathy - you just don't get humans

You play well with: Zombies

What Kind of Monster Are You?

Halloween countdown, part 3

2008-10-29T20:47:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen

What I'm Working On: Juggling writing and a really busy week at the bill-paying job.

Yesterday I blogged on scary things. This is scary, too, especially considering we're in the midst of the college search experience with our junior. A guidance counselor recommended Middlebury the other day. Look below to see why I laughed (even though I felt like running from the room while screaming at the top of my lungs).

We have a year to convince the DD that Bright Futures and Florida College Prepaid make the most sense. Right now, she's in the I-want-to-go-out-of-state phase. Hope it ends soon.

M

25 Most Expensive Colleges For 2008-2009
Here are the 25 most expensive colleges for 2008-2009, based on total cost (tuition + room and board). Whooie, this is some pricey book-learnin'.

Highest Total Cost 2008-2009
College / Total Cost

1. Sarah Lawrence College $53,166
2. George Washington University $50,312
3. New York University $50,182
4. Georgetown University $49,689
5. Connecticut College $49,385
6. Bates College $49,350
7. Johns Hopkins University $49,278
8. Skidmore College $49,266
9. Scripps College $49,236
10. Middlebury College $49,210
11. Carnegie Mellon University $49,200
12. Boston College $49,020
13. Wesleyan University $49,000
14. Colgate University $48,900
15. Claremont McKenna College $48,755
16. Vassar College $48,675
17. Haverford College $48,625
18. University of Chicago $48,588
19. Union College (NY) $48,552
20. Colby College $48,520
21. Mount Holyoke College $48,500
22. Tufts University $48,470
23. Bard College at Simon's Rock $48,460
24. Franklin & Marshall College $48,450
25. Bard College $48,438

Halloween countdown, part 2

2008-10-28T16:22:00.006-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen

What I'm Working On: Getting to the second turning point. This 2nd quarter of the book is always hardest for me.

I decided to do a Tuesday Ten for the second day of Halloween countdown. What kind of Tuesday Ten?

Ten Scary Things......

1) The fact that my teenager is driving. OMG. She's been driving for awhile. It's still scary.

2) The Universal Studio's (theme park) Halloween Horror Nights billboards scattered around town. Click here. I would think those would really scare young children who can see these billboards from their carseats in their parents' minivans.

3) The current stock market. I'm so scared that I've been just tossing my unopened 401k statements in a folder and filing them away.

4) War. A parent at my favorite high school recently complained that part of the movie The Patriot was shown in her son's class. (It wasn't. She was misinformed.) Regardless, she complained about the graphic war scenes. However, I was still proud of the school official who addressed this concern. He said, "War is violence unrestrained, and a movie could never accurately depict war without portraying randomness and senselessness and unimaginable suffering. Perhaps the worse we depict war, the fewer old men will vote for war and the fewer young men will be eager to see the elephant, as the expression went during the War Between the States."

5) Florida's rising unemployment rate.

6) That some people think health care and insurance in the United States is a privilege rather than right. They've obviously never tried to get insurance with a pre-existing condition or been set back (or financially ruined) by huge copayments because their employer went with the cheapest, worst coverage imaginable. These are also people who've never worked two jobs -- neither full time (so the employer didn't have to pay benefits) -- in order to feed and cloth their kids, and then been faced with a life-threatening illness for one of their children. (Sarcasm coming up...... Right, absolutely, that innocent child should just die because health care is a privilege and he/she isn't among that elite privileged group.)

7) That there are Americans who won't vote. People died to give us that right. People die for it now in other countries. Stop taking it for granted.

8) That people actually believe Obama might be a socialist. Please.... Socialism is an economic policy, not a style of government. Many people think the U.S. is straight capitalism. It's not. We're more capitalist than socialist, but what we really have is a mixed economy. But I digress; the point is that Obama is not a socialist. If you're confused, I suggest you revisit your high school World and American history classes and your economics class. Pay special attention to the lectures on economic systems, Marxism, socialism, communism, and capitalism. Get educated.

9) That for one person I spoke to the deciding factor in who they vote for is the abortion issue. Really? Of all the things our country is facing, abortion is THE ONE for you?

10) That, when asked, my fairly well-off friend who is a die hard McCain supporter could give no better reason to vote for him than, "I only have one and it's completely selfish. I'm voting to keep more money in my pocket. I work hard. I don't want to give it (my money) to the people who don't work."

Halloween countdown, part 1

2008-10-27T22:16:00.001-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen

What I'm Working On: Getting to the second turning point. This 2nd quarter of the book is always hardest for me.

I decided to have a little Halloween countdown. I'm a fan, but I have four dogs so the knocking on the door all night gets old. Knock, bark, knock, bark. Luckily, this year I'll be at a high school football game so I'll miss the festivities.

My Halloween personality is, admittedly, rather bah humbug. Let's see what the official test says.

What Your Halloween Habits Say About You

The scariest thing on Halloween is you! You definitely don't want any kids in costumes crossing your path - and you're willing to scare away any who do.

You definitely think of yourself as someone who has a dark side. And part of having that dark side means not showing it.

Your inner child is open minded, playful, and adventurous.

You truly fear the dark side of humanity. You are a true misanthrope.

You're logical, rational, and not easily effected. Not a lot scares you... especially when it comes to the paranormal.

You are picky and high maintenance. If you wear a Halloween costume, it's only when you really feel like it. And it has to be perfect.

What's" Your Halloween Personality?

I am NOT a Chihauhua

2008-10-21T19:02:00.012-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen and The Radioactive Boy Scout by Ken Silverstein

What I'm Working On: I had been worried about a definitive first turning point in my rewrite, but OMG, it happened. It just happened. I set it up, and WHAM, there it is. Too, too cool.

I took a blogthings test to see "what breed of dog I am." Yes, it's lame, but I needed a quick and easy blog.

Before I show you my results, let me show you my real live pack.

This is Alice, my Hurricane Charlie refugee. She's a petite (60 pound) greyhound.

This is Maggie. She's part Chow (you can tell by the tongue) and who-knows-what else.

This is Rex. He's yellow lab and golden retriever with a few other spices.

Above is Cipy, my 88 pound greyhound, being snuggled by my neice.

Can you tell that I'm not a small dog person? That being said, check this out:

You Are a Chihauhua

You are very smart and very earnest. You take yourself quite seriously.
In fact, people are often amused by how seriously you take yourself.

Deep down, you are a very fragile person. Your friends and family know how breakable you are.
Because you are so fragile, you tend to be quite neurotic. You are suspicious of almost everyone and everything.

What Breed of Dog are You?

Who'd have thunk it?

M

PS. Am not.

Monday person, huh?

2008-10-20T20:04:00.000-05:00

What I'm Reading: The Dew Breaker by Edwidge Danticat and The Last Town on Earth by Thomas Mullen

What I'm Working On: Momentum!! Finding it, getting it, keeping it! (Still...)

This is a blatent lie......

You Are Monday

Like this day of the week, you are ruled by the moon.
More than anything, you are flexible.

You are moody and impressionable. You are easily influenced by the world around you.
And while you can be temperamental, you eventually adjust.

While Mondays tend to be the hardest day for people, you don't mind getting back to regular life.
You're the one waking up early and making the coffee while everyone else complains.

What Day of the Week are You?

I am not a Monday person.

M