Amie Borst

My Post is MIA

2011-12-09T09:08:00.001-05:00

Well, not really. It's just not here. I'm at the Mixed-Up Files today ( www.fromthemixedupfiles.com ) blogging about service. If you have service ideas for middle-grade children we'd love to hear them! If you've provided service for your community, stop by and tell us about it! C'mon folks! It's Christmas - and in the spirit of giving, let's share our experiences with service!

Need some extra coaxing? I've brought Washington Irving back from the dead.

I've had a. Stressful. Day.

2011-12-07T07:30:00.000-05:00

Have you ever seen the Kid History videos on youtube? Kids tell a story and adults act them out. It may not sound very interesting, but srsly, they're a riot! But don't take my word for it, take a look for yourself!

( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVlaZfLlWQc&feature=relmfu )

Enjoy! FaaaaacccT.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T07:30:00.000-05:00

I'll be off this holiday...for you know....the holiday. And my youngest daughter's baptism. A very exciting time with so much to be thankful for. I'm counting my blessings, every single one of them.

I hope you all enjoy your day and find many ways to be grateful!

Welcome Author CK Bryant!

2011-11-16T07:30:00.000-05:00

Many of you probably know of the awesomeness that was the Dark C.A.R.M.A. tour and release this past Friday. Three fabulous YA indie authors joined together to celebrate and promote the release of their first books! Today I have the priviledge of interviewing Christine (CK Bryant) and sharing that with all of you. Christine is way kewl so you're in for a real treat!

Welcome Christine! * waves * So glad you could join us! Whaddya say we get straight to business? K? k!

Me: So, what's your MC's quirk? (C'mon, I know she's got one! Even if it's just a love for stinky cheese.)

Christine: Hmmm, good question. She likes cats, does that count? Her mom would never let her have one, but she's got kitten posters in her bedroom and she certainly has a way with Toran. And we can't forget how she falls for the biggest cat of all, Octavion. Maybe it's all the purring and cuddling.

Me: And what about yours? (It's okay, we're all friends here!)

Christine: Ha! I don't think I have any quirks. Okay, maybe one or two. I'm a hair twirler. Isn't that cliche? I'm also a little OCD when it comes to people messing with stuff in my office. I can tell the minute I walk through the doorway if something's been moved. It's my space, dang it. I want it kept the way I left it, mess and all. ;-)

Me: I have quirks. Lots of 'em. Too many to name here! So, yeah * changes subject *...how about your MC's love interest? Any stinky cheese in the near future?

Christine: Again with the stinky cheese? LOL Well, I think I'd be in big trouble if I didn't say Octavion. I wouldn't want him transforming and eating me because I brought up a past boyfriend or some other character, like his cousin, Luka. The battle of the cats would be on for sure. Besides, Octavion is yummy. Why would Kira need anyone else?

Me: Sounds yummy! What about you? What's your love interest? (And I hope it's something good....like say....oh I don't know....chocolate!)

Christine: This one's easy. CHOCOLATE!! Need I say more?

Me: Yes! A girl after my own heart! As much as I pine for chocolate, it is my downfall, too. Does your MC have an obstacle she has to face?

Christine: Wow, tough questions. Of course there's Shandira and her evil scouts, but honestly, I think Kira's biggest obstacle is her lack of confidence. She's been put down her whole life by her mother's flavor-of-the-month boy friends and her mother calls her Mouse because she's always under foot. Kira could become a strong woman if she'd just climb out of her shell.

Me: So, what about you? What kind of obstacles do you face?

Christine: This one is easy. My biggest obstacle is my weight. All kidding aside, I struggle constantly with just getting around. I'd give just about anything to be skinny and healthy.

Me: Oh man, I think we all wish to be skinny and healthy, no matter what our size. And, in case you didn't know, you're beautiful, Christine! * cyber hugs * So you up for a quick game?....
Name the following for MC/You:

favorite food - Ice cream / Fettuccine Alfredo
favorite color - green / pink
favorite piece of clothing - worn out jeans / fuzzy socks
apples or bananas - apples / bananas
broccoli or asparagus - Ick, neither / Broccoli
chocolate or vanilla - Too plain. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough / Vanilla with Chocolate pudding on top. Don't laugh, it's good.
shoes or purse - Can never have too many sneakers / purse and totes

Me: Sa-weet! So in closing, two last questions. What's the worst part about self pubbing/being an indie author?

Christine: It's dang hard and time consuming. There are so many things that have to be done and all in the right order. Formatting was a nightmare, but I made it though that part. Also, the stigma that goes along with self-pubbing sucks. A lot of people think because you are self-published, you're not good enough for the traditional house. And in some cases that might be true--there are a lot of badly written and edited books out there that are self-published. But I've done my homework--had it professionally edited and rewritten it until it's exactly where I want it to be. It's SO ready to be out there and I can't wait to hear how it is received.

Me: * Wipes brow * That sounds like hard work! So....on the flipside, tell us the best part.

Christine: Control! I love being the one who decides what my cover looks like and what scenes can stay or go. I also love having the freedom to publish other books close together. In most traditional publishing houses, they only allow one book a year to go out.

Wow. Sounds like so many things to consider! And your character and book sound so exciting. I can't wait to read it!

As a thank you, Christine has graciously offered up a free ecopy of her book, BOUND! Just leave a comment (and be sure you're a follower of my blog) then go follow Christine's blog! Contest ends Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011. Winner will be announced Wednesday, November 30th, 2011

Why I Think the Argument Against Indie is a Load of Crap

2011-11-14T09:38:00.001-05:00

How many times have you heard this statement?
Self published books are all poorly edited slush.

It seems to be a blanket generalization making its way around cyber space faster than a trojan horse.
And you know what? Just like all generalizations and stereotypes, it's a load of CRAP.
There! I said it.

Now let's look briefly, at what that statement implies: If all indie books are poorly edited slush, then all traditionally published books must be wonderful because they've been edited professionally.

Sure, traditional published books have been professionally edited. I will give you that much. But are all traditionally published books wonderful?

* Snicker *

I can't tell you how many traditionally published books I've wasted good money on only to be disappointed and wonder how the failed plot lines, badly developed characterizations and dropped story elements and let's face it, the poor writing, even made it to an agent in the first place. Then to be published?

ACK! It's enough to make me pull my hair out!

But does that mean all traditional books are bad? Of course not, silly! It just means a few bad ones "slip through the cracks" so to speak.

Tradionally published books can play both sides of the fence - poorly written and badly edited...as well as fantastic, unforgettable stories with great plot lines and characterizations - the same can also be said for indie.

So while it's true that there are some really badly written, poorly edited indie books out there, the converse is true as well. There are some really terrific indie books. It's just people have a hard time finding them or are so turned off by the stereo type they won't take a chance. I think it's time to put an end to that stereotype.

And I'm not saying all indie authors will - or should - end up like Amanda Hocking....because let's face it, she's a one in a million just like Stephenie Meyer and JK Rowling. I'm just saying we need to give them a chance.

In closing, just for a moment, apply the argument against indie to say....food at the grocery store.

Jane: I only buy national brand food. I'll never buy store brand. It's poorly manufactured crap.
Mary: Really? I love the store brand. Not only do I get a bargain, but most of the time I'm happy with it and my family doesn't know the difference.

I don't know about you, but I'm happy to buy store brand. And I'm happy to support indie authors!

NaNo NoNo

2011-11-07T07:30:00.000-05:00

As luck would have it (not) I got sick. The day after Halloween. The same day I was supposed to start NaNo.

With a fever, aches and a mucus factory for sinuses, I was pretty much confined to the couch. And even though I have a laptop, I was just too sick to write. Though, I did try. I managed to squeek out about a thousand words. But now, I'm about 9,000 words behind schedule. YIKES!

Okay, so I admit, I went into this knowing that I was going to be a NaNo weakling. I just wanted to get a "good start" on a book. I figured if I made it to 25,000 or 30,000 words I'd be happy. But how on earth am I supposed to even come close to that now?

So my NaNo advice: Don't get sick! Yup. It's a big NaNo NoNo.

Although, I'll admit, that's pretty difficult with cold and flu season upon us. There's got to be a better way to combat NaNo sickness.
If you're like me, writing while you're sick just doesn't work (especially when the fever is so icky that I've got on four layers of clothes and sweaters, not to mention the three blankets I was swaddled up in).

So what to do now? I'm so far behind I can't play catch up because I'd only exhaust myself (and probably end up very frustrated). Besides NaNo isn't a race to the finish line with the quickest time the winner. No, NaNo is simply a journey to accomplish a common goal. My only option now is to be the tortoise, not the hare. Slow and steady. I'll eventually finish the marathon.

Happy Halloween Ya'll!

2011-10-31T07:00:00.000-04:00

Halloween is one of my most favorite holidays of the year! I'll admit, I'm still a kid at heart, so I love dressing up in costumes. Last year my hubby and I went as Thing 1 and Thing 2. But I've been so busy this year that I haven't created a costume for myself. Thankfully there's plenty of stuff packed away in my "costume box" that I can come up with something quick. Maybe I'll just throw on my red cape and go as Little Red :)

Another reason Halloween is one of my favorite holidays is because I have the liberty to be as creative as I want. Last year I made a graveyard cake, for example. And each year I make cute little crafts with my children's classes at school. It also gives me a creative outlet for writing. I love "dark" or "spooky" stories and Halloween really ignites the flames for things of the unknown....ghosts, goblins, demons, vampires, witches and werewolves!

Plus, Halloween means NaNo is right around the corner. Okay, so last year I did NaNo and I hated it. I couldn't turn off my internal editor so I had a hard time really staying on track and squeezing out my word count. This year I'm going to tackle it the best way I know how: write and edit as I go. If I don't meet the 50,000 words by the end of November, I'm okay with that. What I will be happy with is that I've got a great start to another book!

So as I trick-or-treat with my kids tonight, I will be plotting and planning my next story, WILLOWBROOK a YA Gothic.

What do you love about Halloween? Happy Halloween and don't eat too much candy!

October brings....Snow?

2011-10-29T12:29:00.001-04:00

October is nearly over and I've only now realized that somehow the month escaped without a single blog post from yours truly.

Time seems to pass at such a rapid rate....I swear only yesterday I was sending my girls off on the first day of school! Yet, somehow the quarter has already come to an end and we're facing first quarter report cards.

It's been a busy month with two birthdays, out of town guests, class parties and of course, Halloween preparations. Then there's the writing....which I've been doing a lot of lately! Revisions on my MG story CINDERSKELLA and I'm nearly finished with a humorous MG/Chapter Book, MADDIE & MIKEY. She's like a slightly grown-up Junie B Jones, with a southern twang. Her misadventures with her little brother get her into more trouble than a 'coon in a garbage can!

Then there's today....where October has brought...snow?! I mean, what the heck? I'm not particularily fond of the white stuff in the best of circumstances, but bring in when I'm supposed to be ejoying the peak of fall? The beautiful colors of the leaves before they drop from the trees? The hayrides, apple eating and pumpkin picking? The Trick-or-treating? Foil that and I'm less than happy.

But I suppose I'm making the most of it. Curled up in a blanket, sitting by a fire, enjoying some hot cocoa. And writing. :)

What are you doing to enjoy the last days of October?

Interview and Giveaway

2011-09-27T22:32:00.001-04:00

I'm over at the Mixed Up Files today interviewing the fabulous Rose Cooper. You really won't want to miss this! It includes a TWO book giveaway, including an ARC! You srsly want this.

So hop on over to www.fromthemixedupfiles.com like now, tell the two of us hello and enter your butt in that contest!

Good luck folks!

Blogging Etiquette

2011-09-26T07:30:00.000-04:00

While there are many, many rules to writing, there are just a few simple rules about blogging. They are probably more my opinion than fact, but I believe it's a good start.

1- Don't quote someone without their permission or linking to their site and giving them credit. This is kind of a no brainer and it's really pretty much protocol for life.
2 - Don't turn a private conversation/debate/what-have-you into a public blog post. And certainly don't write that post hastily when you're all offended/upset/heated because you're only going to make yourself look bad. 'Nuff said about that.
3- If the topic you are writing about is your opinion, it should be clear to your readers. If it's a factual, informative post, try to link to some evidence/facts/data to substantiate it.
4- Be kind. Remember other writers are your friends. They will buy your books, they will host you during blog tours, they will spread the word - good or bad. And I think we'd all like to have people speaking kindly about us.
5- Reciprocate. I once heard it said that the amount of return you receive in blogging is directly related to the amount of your effort (or something alon those lines). So if you want people to read your blog, you must read theirs. (I'm probably the last person to preach this!)

So what blogging etiquette do you live by?

Schweddy Balls

2011-09-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

I'm a huge SNL (Saturday Night Live) fanatic. Anytime someone puts on a bathing suit or mentions mexican food, I can be heard reciting the Ultimate Cheerleaders chant: Taco, Burrito, What's coming out of your Speedo?!

So yeah, SNL. :)

Anyway, one of my other favorite skits is Alec Baldwin's epic NPR routine, playing a character by the last name of Schweddy. Mr. Schweddy is famous for his balls - cheese balls, meatballs, etc. Well, you can guess where the skit goes from there.

When I saw that Ben and Jerry's had come out with a new ice cream flavor, my husband and I immediately made a date! Here's a pic of that new ice cream, courtesy of laughing squid.

And just in case you haven't seen the famous SNL skit, here's a clip!

Enjoy those Scweddy Balls, folks!

Contest!!

2011-09-19T08:49:00.002-04:00

I'm an absolute sucker for contests. I love them. Everything about them. Well, except for the not winning part....which is usually the case with me since I seem to have the luck of a rabbit missing all four of its feet.

Anywho...My BFF, Rose Cooper, is having an ultimate contest on her blog today. You. Must. Check. It. Out. NOW!

Why are you still hanging out here? Go! Skidaddle. Get on with your bad self and win that contest! Be sure to tell her I sent you!

What is REALLY Important?

2011-09-12T07:30:00.004-04:00

I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. About what's really important.

As many of you know, my hometown was destroyed in Hurricane Irene in late August 2011. What many of you do not know, is that I went to New York to assist with clean up efforts. I don't suppose I'll ever really understand what caused me to be so impulsive, but all I can say is that I felt a compulsive need to help them.

The opportunity to serve the people of upstate New York was an incredible one, something I will never forget. And I will be forever grateful for the experience. I doubt I did any good or made any real difference, but somewhere deep in my gut - or maybe it's buried in my heart - I believe it mattered to someone.

And so, my recent experiences with clean up efforts of Hurricane Irene, I suppose, were the catalyst for those thoughts of what's really important.

As I shoveled knee-high mud, used 1200 gallons of water to hose out houses and storage sheds, as I sifted through debris gathering remnants of people's lives, I couldn't help but think about what's really important. It's eye-opening when you see someone (lots of someones...mothers, fathers, children, grandparents, poor people, wealthy people, white people, black people, religious people, atheist people) lose everything - their whole lives - it puts things in perspective a bit.

I've thought about my own house and what I'd do if I lost it to a flood or tornado or any other natural disaster. And you know what? Honestly, I wouldn't care about the house.

What I would care about are the people in that house. My beautiful daughters, my loving husband, our cute little dog. I'd care about photographs and family heirlooms. But the granite counters? The furniture? The television and movie theater? They really don't matter.

I've thought about writing and music and cake decorating - the artistic venues I've chosen to share my talents with others. If I was ever forced to give them up, I would be sad. Lost. Miserable.

What all this thinking has boiled down to is this: things are just things. They are replaceable. But the talents, skills and education that make us who we are, the people who make us who we are, are not. Our loved ones should always take top priority in our lives. Because they are irreplaceable.

Someday, many eons from now, we will pass on to another life. While we are in those last hours, I highly doubt we will reflect on our earthly possessions....our cars, our houses and furniture, our granite counters or swimming pool. Instead, we will be thinking of all those who've touched our lives, who brought us joy and shared our lives with us. I doubt we will think, "I wish I'd redone the kitchen or spent more time watching TV." I can guarantee that we, instead, will cherish memories and think "I'm glad I played ball with my son or taught my daughter to play piano. I'm glad that when my friend needed me I was there for her."

So take a moment today, tomorrow, everyday this week, this month, this year to reflect on what's really important. I assure you, you won't be sorry.

From the Mixed-Up Files Fall Tour

2011-09-10T00:04:00.001-04:00

Yup! It's that time of year again! My group blog, From The Mixed-Up Files is doing another big giveaway....this time with skype visits! I hope you'll stop by and enter for a chance to win!

Rip Van Winkle Meets Hurricane Irene

2011-08-31T22:18:00.013-04:00

This past weekend Hurricane Irene was little more than a nuisance for the east coast.

Or so you thought.

A sleepy little county in upstate New York, just 90 miles outside of NYC, would say otherwise. It has been declared a disaster.

This county is Ulster. It is home to the Ashokan Reservoir, the water supply to NYC - the same reservoir featured on the rotating header of my blog. It is home to one of the most well known stories taught to children throughout elementary school - Rip Van Winkle.

This is where I grew up.

I've been gone for 15 years. Married, had children and lived all over the United States with an Air Force husband.

Yet, I always manage to come home.

I bring my children there every Spring for Easter Egg Hunts on my parent's 22 acre property. We spend three lazy weeks there each summer, laying in the hammock enjoying cool mountain breezes and watching the clouds float across a heavenly blue sky. We fish at local lakes, swim in creeks, collect Red Efts and chase the chickens when they stray from the property. We hike mountains, pick strawberries and visit historic sites. We walk through towns still frozen in time with quintessential shops supplying items for every need and whim.

And now it's gone.

All of it.

Unfortunately with unprecedented tax hikes and little to no media coverage this town will be hard pressed to recover from this natural disaster more catastrophic than Katrina.

I'm hoping my writer friends will support me in my efforts to help this devastated area. I've tried to organize an online auction, but apparently I don't have enough clout to get the attention of agents or editors to help me in these efforts. So I hope you will help me...because there is strength in numbers! Spread the word. If you're a writer, offer your time with a query crit or chapter crit. If you have an agent/editor, spread the word to them. Tweet this post. Facebook it. Whatever you have to do to get the word out!

Donate. Volunteer. Pray.

Thank you friends, for your support. This week has been a difficult one at best, filled with tears and grief.

On a final note...please take a moment to watch this video made by a local resident.

Thanks to my high school classmate, Derek Stapleton for use of these photos...and for his efforts with Hurricane Irene.

Alliteration

2011-07-27T07:30:00.005-04:00

It's a simple concept: the repetition of a letter or sound. Easy enough.

The wobbly walrus waddled toward the wall.

Alliteration is great for poetry. A wonderful example is from my favorite poet and writer, Edgar Allen Poe.

"Once upon a midnight dreary while I pondered weak and weary"
(notice how even though Once starts with an "o" it makes a "w" sound, so it's included as part of the alliteration)
I won't highlight the entire poem for you, as there are many examples of alliteration throughout (and you might begin to feel like you're in a college poetry class). But that one example shows us the fluidity it brings to the poem.

So why the heck is it important in novel writing? And is it necessary?

Well, for one, it could add a layer and flavor to your writing that might not otherwise be there. For another, alliteration has a natural tendency to feel familiar, and brings your reader a relate-able language (so long as it's not overdone). But no, it's not necessary.

I do prefer to use alliteration in my writing. And many times it happens without my thinking about it. Guess that's the inner poet in me shining through. :)

What about you? Do you use alliteration?

Personification

2011-07-20T07:00:00.003-04:00

Think back to seventh grade English. For some of you (including myself) that is a loooooong time ago. But think hard...

There's something you learned way back then called personification.
What? You don't remember it?
Well, quite simply, personification can be defined as giving human traits or characteristics to an inanimate object.

Sound hard? Not really. I'm guessing you've used personification just today.

That slice of chocolate cake is really calling to me.
(Cake can't call because that's a human characteristic)

That humidity beat the snot out of me.
(Humidity can't beat)

The wind whistled through the trees.
(Wind can't whistle)

See? It's that easy!

But....these examples are overdone....they're so common that many times we don't even see the beauty of the personification. And personification can be quite lovely.

Let me show you.

* And like the flowers beside them chill and shiver, Will like the flowers beside them soon be gone - Robert Frost

* Drowsed with the fume of poppies - John Keats

* I am silver and exact. I have no preconceptions.
Whatever I see, I swallow immediately.
Just as it is, unmisted by love or dislike
I am not cruel, only truthful – from Mirror by Sylvia Plath

And personification isn't just for dead poets. One of my favorite authors used personification quite frequently in her most recent book, The Dark and Hollow Places. Below is my absolute favorite example from that book.

* The clouds are pregnant with snow - Carrie Ryan

I don't know why but this speaks to me like poetry.

So what examples do you have of personification? Do you have a favorite author who uses it? Is it something you incorporate into your writing, whether intentionally or subconsciously?

At The Mercy of Editors

2011-07-18T07:30:00.000-04:00

While this isn't exactly what working with an editor is like, it is entertaining.

Enjoy!

I Have An Agent!!!

2011-07-13T07:13:00.001-04:00

I have two agents, actually.

One to sell my house, and one to help me purchase my next house. And they're doing a heckofa job, if I do say so myself.

What's that?

Oh. You thought I meant a LITERARY Agent?

Sorry. Nope. Just a REAL ESTATE Agent. :)

(Did I getcha?)

(I'm probably gonna pay for this one, like the boy who cried wolf, huh?)

Rejection Letters and What Agents are REALLY Saying

2011-07-11T07:11:00.002-04:00

OMG, let me pre-empt this and say, THIS FOLLOWING BLOG POST IS NOT TRUE, IT IS A JOKE!

Have I ever felt this way? Of course I have. Do agents really think this? I'm sure there are a few jerks out there who do. But the vast majority of agents are super nice people who really do want to see authors work through to publication.

So smile peeps, realize this is a joke, laugh, comment and know that you're not alone when YOU thought this very thing!!

Dear (Insert name of Author who's spirit and soul you are about to crush)

Thank you for letting me review your manuscript, (Insert name of manuscript that you think sucks completely and has no place on bookstore shelves)

Unfortunately, I am going to have to pass. I'm sorry I don't have better news.
(Of course you know I'm not really sorry and I don't really care if this is the 6th or 600th rejection you're received, but that's the nature of the business, so live with it.)

Please don't think of this as a reflection on your writing ability.(It actually is a reflection of your writing....but I figure I should at least try to turn you down nicely, like a bad relationship gone worse....Blah, blah, blah...it's not you, it's me.)

Although your novel has merit, the current state of the market forces us to make tough decisions regarding taking on new clients.
(This is my nice way of saying you suck without hurting your feelings....because our agency only reps good writers not crappy ones. Sorry.)

In order to maintain a high quality of service to our existing clients,
I must decline to represent projects that won't have a high rate of success.(Like I said, your book sucked. Your writings sucks. You suck.)

Due to the volume of queries and submissions we receive, I'm unable to provide a personal evaluation.
(In other words, there was SOOOOO much that was wrong with your story and writing, I don't even know where to begin.....)

Good luck with your submissions.
(Notice how I made that plural? Because I know you have more crappy stories under your belt....and I know you'll try to send me another one of those crappy stories....but please don't.....GOOD LUCK means that I hope you have better luck with someone else....on ALL your submissions.)

All the best,
Agent Awesome

Why I Will NEVER Read Another Carrie Ryan Novel

2011-06-27T10:42:00.003-04:00

So I've had THE DARK AND HOLLOW PLACES sitting on my TBR pile since the book was released in March. I don't know why I didn't pick it up and read as soon as I purchased it. I mean I knew I'd devour it in a day. Instead, I read other books (books worth reading, I might add), played with my kids, wrote a little, and pretty much anything else I could do in order to avoid reading this book.

It's crazy, right? Especially after my post explaining that Carrie is like my BFF. My Bestie. I mean, who wouldn't want to support their best friend?

Well here's why I won't support my best friend anymore and why I'll never read another Forest of Hands and Teeth novel:

1- Her characters are so well developed that I feel like I know them as well as I know my BFF. Normally this wouldn't be a bad thing, but they're tortured so much throughout the story that I can't bare to see them in pain. And that's just not cool. You suck Carrie. SUCK!

2- The world is so real that I'm left wondering about things long after I put the book down. That's not cool. I have a LIFE and I can't devote all this time to thinking about her story, the characters and the world they live in. Yeah, thanks a lot Carrie. It's almost like you knew I didn't want to accomplish anything this week.

3- It's unputdownable, resulting in my need to stay up until 3am in order to finish the book. Then, all I could imagine were Unconsecrated fingers lunging for me in the dark. So, I had to sleep with the light on. Not cool, Carrie. NOT COOL. Do you realize how tired I am today? But you don't care, do you? You'll just go on writing your fantastic books, keeping me reading until 3 am.

So that's why I'll NEVER read another Carrie Ryan book...and why she's no longer my BFF. You can tell her I said so.

Book Giveaway

2011-06-22T14:38:00.002-04:00

Hello Blogging Besties!

I can't believe it's been nearly a month since I last posted. We've been going through a ton around here....but things are looking up. Finally! Though, that's a post for another day...

The post for today is over at The Mixed up Files...and it's a MUST read. Especially if you like books. Free books at that!

So what are you waiting for? Go on over to www.fromthemixedupfiles.com now and enter!

Story Archs, MC's and My Life

2011-05-31T13:45:00.007-04:00

While I try to keep my personal life to a minimum here in my little corner of cyber space, there are some things you should know.

My family has been through a whole bunch of crap over the last few years. And right now, it feels like it is all spiraling out of control. Though, I suppose that's a good thing, right?

Because in writing, we have a step-wise process:

A - Everything is hunkey dorey for our MC...until one day....
(Dun,dun,dun!)

B - They make a choice, a decision, exercise their free will and agency or an event occurs and...
(WHAM!)

C - Conflict arises.
(Ka-POW!)

D - They battle that conflict, either physically, emotionally, spiritually or even a combination of these "lly's" and out of nowhere, more conflict arises.
(Whap Bam!)

E - Things get a little worse....
(Sob, Bawl, cry!)

F - Your character must make another choice. They can either:
1. admit defeat
2. surge forward with more power, energy and determination than ever
or
3. find an alternate resolution

G - Once that course is chosen, the MC rises above the conflict, solves their problems in one way, shape or form and the story is resolved.
(Sequels are the exception here...but there should be a resolution for some aspect of the conflict in the first book, even if it's just temporary. How do those villains come back to life, anyway??)

The most important part, however, is to acknowledge that through all of this the MC has grown in some way. Maybe they're a better person because they've learned to help others. Or they've learned to forgive. Or they've defeated their demons. Whatever it is, the MC needs to show a positive change.

And I will tell you, writing fiction isn't a whole lot different than real life.

About 3 years ago we learned that one of my children had some learning disabilities...pretty big ones. Although I'd seen these issues since birth, I'd always been poo-poohed by doctors.

Until 2008 when...

A - I can't get into details, but an "event" revealed the severity of these disabilities (i refer to them as learning differences because I find the term learning disabilities highly offensive)

B - My husband and I made a choice.

C - This choice pissed off a lot of people. But honestly, they weren't walking in my shoes (or my daughter's for that matter) so I wasn't worried about it.

D - Now here I am, 3 years later, still stuck in Step D of the novel writing process. Only my life isn't a novel (but if it were, I guarantee it would be a #1 Bestseller....any takers?) Let me tell you, those battles I face are all of the above "lly's," too. I've been an emotional basket-case, faced spirital highs and lows and the stress has caused a huge physical strain on my body.

E - I know I'm entering this stage of the story however, because recently things have really escalated and let's just say if the powers that be don't pull me out of the refiner's fire, I will be burnt to a crisp.

F - I've made lots of choices over the years. At times, although brief, I've given up. Currently I'm surging forward with greater determination on an alternate path. (see how I combined those two choices? clever, huh?)

Knowing that I've been at each stage at one point in time or another, I realize that our MC's can be in various stages at multiple times. They can make a choice and change it. They can still be in one stage but facing the decisions of another.

Although I've been in D, E and F for quite sometime I've also experienced some of the changes required in G. I'm still contacted by people who've read my article. I've forged a path for those who will follow in my footsteps. And I've been a source of comfort to those experiencing some of the very things I've endured. Which, is why, I believe, I've gone back to step F and made changes to the course in this story of life.

I know that this story arch will continue because even though I've made these decisions, I will still have more conflict ahead.

My story is not over.

And The Winner Is....

2011-05-23T07:00:00.005-04:00

I'm super long overdue to announce the winner of the earrings from my post/giveaway on April 18th. SORRY!

Anyway, I thought, I'd do things a little differently...

So....
EVERYONE who entered wins a pair of earrings!

So who entered this craziness back on April 18th- April 22nd 2011?
Well...

Laura Pauling
Christine Danek
Eliza
Jen Daiker
Casey
Anne N Kenny
Melissa
Amy

Yes, that's 8 people! Yes, I'm crazy, insane and out of my mind. No I didn't include Rose Cooper. Because she's my partner in this crazy etsy venture, that's why!

So why am I selecting 8 people to send a pair of earrings to? Because I heart my followers and am so grateful for each of you who listen to my ramblings. That's why. :)

Hurry and send me an email (before I change my mind dawgs) at Amiegr8tstuff (at) aol (dot) com with your mailing address. No. You won't get to choose the earrings I send. Like my kids elementary school teacher says, "You get what you get and you don't throw a fit."

So, yup. That's it.
Thanks for entering and being, ya know, awesome.

For everyone else....You can still visit my etsy shop that I run with Rose Cooper and place an order anytime! I'm working on a pretty kewl item for writers that you won't want to miss!

Are You Prepared For The Z-O-M-B-I-E-A-P-O-C-A-L-Y-P-S-E?

2011-05-19T09:44:00.003-04:00

So it's late at night and a meteor strikes, a power plant explodes, a government-created-illness gets out of control....and WHAM! Zombies begin flooding the streets. And they're hungry. For. Your. BRAINS!

What do you do?

Well, if it were me, I might scream, grab a baseball bat and start knocking some heads off of some corpsified-brain-eating-mongers.

But I'm not super strong. Or coordinated.

So I decide the only way to really protect myself is to grab my kids and RUN!

I high-tail it outta sight with my kids in tow. Only problem is - I have no food, clothing or water. ATMS are broken and I ain't got no cash.

Well shoot, Vern. This is a bit of a problem.

Especially since my tank is only 1/4 full.

Especially since there aren't no stores open on account that everyone else has fled.

Especially since the nearest water source (which I wouldn't drink from if you paid me) seems to have green fumes wafting from it.

I'm so screwed.

Now my kids are arguing because they actually have to communicate with each other instead of hiding behind a Nintendo DS. They're also crying because everytime the car hits a bump they think it's a zombie. Which it is. But I just tell them it was a speed bump. On the highway.

So what now?

Do we give up? Surrender to this zombie apocalyse? Become one of them?

We could.

But I'm too darned stubborn for that.

And all that keeps going through my mind is the woulda-shoulda-coulda. Then I remember that website with the great article about how to prepare for the Zombie Apocalypse. And I remember that I followed every direction. And stowed it all away neatly in the stow-and-go seats of my van.

Thank heavens for the CDC!

(Now that IS ironic!)

But seriously, wanna know how to survive a Zombie Apocalypse, hurricane or natural disaster for realz? Then you really need to follow that link above. Here it is again just in case, yaknow, you missed it.

NaPiBoWriWee

2011-05-09T08:55:00.003-04:00

I particated in National Picture Book Writing Week from May 1- May 7th and boy, what an interesting challenge! I'd never written a picture book until now (well, actually that's kind of a lie, I did write one picture book when I was in college....wish I could find that sucker, it was pretty good!). But I'm really glad I participated in the challenge.

For one - it encouraged me to do something I hadn't tried before (or, well, in a long time).

For two - it was an easy goal. 500 words a day (or thereabouts).

For three - it got me writing again. I've been in a funk ever since I started querying my MG book and sadly haven't written anything in a long time (and by long I mean 6 months or more). I realized that I missed writing a LOT. I mean, I knew I missed it, but the querying process beat me down so bad it took the joy out of writing. Especially when I was hearing stupid reasons for agents not liking my book. The most recent one said she wanted it to be more spooky. Uh, it was pitched as humorous. < shrugs > Yes, The Wizard of Oz would have been a hoot as a dark horror story. Whatev.

So now I'm kind of inspiried to finially get back to that YA I was working on and finish that sucker(I started it Sept 2009...and kept shelving it). And I'm going to write it because I LOVE IT. Not because 4 agents are waiting on it. Not because I care what market trends are. Simply because I LOVE this story and I'm so invested in the characters.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
What about you? Are you motived by challenges? What gets you excited to write again after a funk? Have you ever been in a funk? What did you have for breakfast?

Thick Skin

2011-04-28T07:30:00.001-04:00

You know how they say that you have to develop thick skin as a writer?
Well, my skin is so thick I could be Edward Cullen.

That is all.

How about you?

Interview with Rose Cooper

2011-04-26T07:30:00.009-04:00

As many of you already know, Rose Cooper and I go waaay back. Like a WHOLE ENTIRE year! We met through the group blog, From The Mixed-Up Files of Middle-Grade Authors, and the rest is pretty much history!

So when I was approached by Rose and Random House to participate in her blog tour I was kinda like "Ah, shucks!" Then, "Heck yah!" Followed by "Sa-Weet!" Because I <3 Rose and hosting for her blog tour makes me all kinds of happy! :)

And not only do we get a super fab interview with Rose, but I'm super excited to reveal some never before seen book covers!

Okay - on with the show!

Me: How much influence did you have with designing the cover?
Rose: some

Me: Can you elaborate?
Rose: I drew Sofia’s head.

Me: She has a really big head.
Rose: (shrugs).

Me: How many times did the cover change?
Rose: Once.
Me: Prove it.

BEFORE

AFTER

Rose: I drew the toilet paper too.
Me: Yes, you have some mad skills.
Rose: The maddest.

Me: What other countries has GOSSIP been sold to?
Rose: (counts on fingers) Vietnam, Portugal, China. Oh, and Spain. It was released in Spain in February.
Me: Prove it:
Rose: (pulls picture out of shoe)

Publishers selected images from the book for the front and back cover

Me: Um, translation please.
Rose: Diario de Sofía desde el cuarto de baño de chicas is translated as: Journal of Sofia from the Girls’ Bathroom. People (in Spain) say it’s Diary of Greg for girls. That’s what they call Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

Me: Care to impress me further?
Rose: (whips out another book cover) I drew her head again.

RUMORS FROM THE BOYS’ ROOM: A Blogtastic! Novel In stores 10-11-11

Me: Her head is still rather big
*crickets*
Me: Has anyone told you how awesome you are?
Rose: Is that a rhetorical question?

(For the record, it's not a rhetorical question - Rose IS awesome!)

If you haven't read Blogtastic! Gossip From the Girl's Room, what are you waiting for?!

And don't forget to be uber cool and pre-order your copy of Rumors From The Boys' Room!

Many thanks to Rose and Random House for inviting me to be part of this Blogerific Blogtastic! blog tour! (How many times can you say BLOG in one sentence?)

Super Secret Project!

2011-04-18T07:30:00.005-04:00

I've been kinda absent for a while here in the blogger world, posting only occasionally. And really flaking on reading other blogs.

But, there's a good reason for it. I've been hard at work on a super secret project. But, it's not secret anymore!

Rose Cooper and I joined creative forces and built an etsy shop together! And I promise you, it's the bomb!

You'll want to visit our etsy shop, Happily Etsy After, because we're giving away a pair of earrings

and an art print to one lucky winner! Who doesn't love a good contest and free stuff?

So what are you waiting for? Head on over to Happily Etsy After and see what we're all about!

Oh and just leave a comment here to be entered!

Happiness is in the Heart, Not the Circumstances

2011-04-11T09:01:00.004-04:00

At least that's what my Dove candy wrapper told me a few weeks back.

And I've thought long and hard about that lately.

Because I keep saying:

I'll be happy when....

I get an agent
I sell my book(s)
People are reading my book(s)
I have a successful writing career
I sell my house
I move
My daughter gets help in school
I have more money
I lose weight
Hubby is finally finished with his PhD
Spring finally blooms
It's summer vacation
The sun shines
It's the weekend so I can relax
The kids are back in school so I can write again
I finish these stupid Easter dresses
I finish some projects lying around
The laundry is done
The house is cleaned

BUT....
You know what?
None of those things are going to make me happy. Because THINGS cannot make us happy. Living a good life, surrounded by friends, family and loved ones are what make us happy - should we chose to find joy in it.

So...I'm going to be happy even if:

I don't get an agent
I find my own way to publish my book(s)
I have to work hard for others to find and read my book(s)
I make my own success
I don't sell my house
I don't move
My daughter doesn't get help in school
I never earn a large paycheck
I stay as fat as a beached whale
Hubby takes 4 more months to finish his PhD
Spring is cold and rainy
I have to wait a bit longer for summer vacation
It's cloudy till the day I die
I never get to relax on the weekend
The kids are back in school so I can write again
I finish these stupid Easter dresses and they're not perfect
I never finish the projects lying around my house
The laundry is piled sky high
I hire a maid to do all the housework

So what about you? Are you going to be happy despite the "Despites" or are you going to wait to find your joy?

Why I've Been an Inconsistent Blogger

2011-03-30T07:30:00.004-04:00

Things have been kinda suckish around here for the last week or so. I've been trying to trudge through these obstacles without completely losing my mind. So,in order to maintain my own sanity, it boiled down to daily survival. If it wasn't air, water and (sometimes) food, then I let it go. Well, I took care of the kids, too...when my brain wasn't exploding.

To help you understand what we've gone through, here's just a hint of the things that happened in less than a week:

1 - My hubby applied for a job in Australia a few months ago, then landed two interviews in the last month, was essentially a shoe-in...only to find out last week that someone else was selected for the position. This was the opportunity of a lifetime for him...and would have been a dream come true for me. But, alas, it wasn't mean to be. *cries a little*

2 - That same day only a few hours later, one of the agents I've been working with for over a year on two manuscripts, sent me the dreaded email. After all that time and revision, the agent was going to pass. Something about the agent decided not to take on anymore clients..."It's not you, it's me."...but honestly, I didn't hear much after I saw the word, NO.

3 - The very next day, my car broke down.

and....

4 - Two days after that, Hubby's car broke down.

And this is a story by itself!

Kind stranger towed car to nearest parking lot. Hubby then called tow truck - only to find that 200 ft away there was a garage. Mechanic coasted car to garage. Mechanic couldn't locate problem said it would take 8 hours to diagnose problem - at a mere labor cost of $100 an hour.

Deciding this mechanic must be a crook, we called our trusted mechanic who had our car towed to his shop. Only to learn 8 hours later, after completely disassembling the engine, that he couldn't find the problem either.

We decide to call car dealer, just for giggles and grins. Maybe they've seen our mysterious engine problem before.

BINGO! The computer on our vehicle had been recalled! So the car dealer would cover our towing expenses and do the repair for free. After 4 days without a vehicle, we had our car back in one hour! WOOT!

Of course the trusted mechanic had spent about 3-4 hours of labor on our vehicle trying to diagnose the problem, as well as taking apart and reassembling the engine. Thankfully he only charged us for one hour of labor!

Phew!

It was really a good thing that our situation was turning around, because I couldn't have handled anything more after all that.

Then it continued to get better....

My daughter came home from school and announced she was cast as the understudy for the role of Little Kangaroo in her school's production of Seussical the Musical! This was probably the brightest part of my entire day! Seeing her happy and beaming was the best thing I could have asked for.

I really hope last week is behind me and that the better things this week will be a sign of what's to come. Someday maybe I'll even be able to laugh about it. Not there yet....but someday!

So as you can imagine, it's been quite the week. And one I won't soon forget - for better or worse.

How Carrie Ryan and I Became BFF's

2011-03-23T10:04:00.007-04:00

So yesterday was the release of THE DARK AND HOLLOW PLACES by author Carrie Ryan. This is the third book in THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH, a post-apocolyptic zombie novel series.

I fell in love with Ryan's style, her beautiful writing, immediately. The story was a close second. I love how her writing reads like poetry, so beautiful against a dark plot. I love how she manages to create a story that grabs the reader and draws them in without bad language or overtly sexual scenes. She has proven that good YA doesn't need those things in order to be successful.

I thought it would be super cool to have an interview with Ms. Ryan...since we're like best friends and all.

Me: So, Carrie, what makes you so totally made of awesome?
Her: Well....

Me: (cutting her off before she can answer) So where do you get your story ideas that are totally made of awesome?
Me: (not allowing her to answer, again) It's no wonder you landed a totally awesome agent who is made of awesome. What's your trick? Do you channel all the late greats at once?
Her: Excuse me?

Me: That's what I thought. No one can be that good of a writer without selling their soul to the devil. I mean, channeling the spirits of other authors. So how do you do it? The writing I mean. Does it come all at once or in bits and pieces?
Her: The first step...

Me: That's great. So uh, you got another book in the works? What's it about? When will it be finished? When are you going to share some of your awesome with me? Maybe ya'know, give my manuscript to your super agent? Can we be best friends? Cause, I'm sorta cool, if you look past the fact that I'm a mega dork, I mean popstar.
Her: (smiles uneasily)

Me: I totally knew you were made of awesome. We are going to be BFF's forever and ever. And ever.
Her: (runs away screaming - but later realizes she has the making of the next bestseller)

So yup. Carrie Ryan is my uber cool best friend. Jealous much?

I Have No Blog Post

2011-03-21T07:30:00.002-04:00

I've sat here for twenty minutes or so and still have no idea of what to blog about.

The only thing I could think of was the pizza I made with my girls on Friday. In fact, I'd kinda like a slice right now. But it's all gone. What wasn't eaten Friday night for dinner became Saturday morning's breakfast!

One very random thing about me: I'm originally from New York, upstate, in the Catskill Mountains. And even though I'm not from the city, there is one universal thing with all New Yorkers: the way we eat a slice of pizza.

Step one: Grab one hot, cheesy, slice of pie by the crust.
Step two: Fold pizza in half length wise, so cheese sticks together.
Step three: Eat pizza.
Step four: When you've reached the end of your slice and only the crust remains, dip that cripsy crust in your favorite soda (Colas or Root Beers are a favorite).

YUM! And srsly, don't knock it 'til you've tried it!

Do you have a unique way of eating a favorite food? Are you craving a slice of new York pie? I am.

Totally Random Wednesday

2011-03-16T09:48:00.007-04:00

The BEST four chord musical montage. Ever.

Funny car prank.

Do you use quotes correctly?

http://youtu.be/bW8OkSJvhvE

(I think this video is protected...so please visit you tube to view...I promise, it's totally worth it!!)

Why Do You Write?

2011-03-14T09:10:00.003-04:00

I have been such an inconsistent blogger lately. Things have been crazy around here; trying to sew my girls Easter dresses with them and editing two projects at once! It's left me with little time to do much else.

During all this craziness, the thought of simplfying my life always comes to mind. What can I clear from my plate to make my life easier?

Obviously I can't get rid of my children (nor would I want to....well, I guess it depends on the day!). And the hubby is a pretty vital part of my life (even though I have to wash his sweaty gym clothes). I'd actually be lost without them in my life.

So what are my other commitments? Well, there are lots of them....one of them being writing.

Although some people would say the writing could go, that it's not important, that other things should take priority. I'd say they're not a writer.

Because the writers I know couldn't LIVE without being able to write. Some might write everyday, some a few times a week. Others have a strict schedule while others might only write when the inspiration strikes. In any case, they're all writers. And I know that their brains would explode if they were prohibitied from writing. Well, mine would.

Plus, writing gives me a release. I can vent, create, inspire, love. I can make people smile, laugh, cry, kill. There are worlds that I can visit, live in, long for. I can bring people together, or tear them apart.

I have control.

Maybe that's why I write. Because, in a world where it seems there's so little we can influence, so much that we are powerless to, writing allows me to have that control.

So, why do you write? What's your favorite part about it?

It's a Birthday Celebration!

2011-03-02T07:00:00.004-05:00

But first, I have some awesome blogger friends to thank!

Taryn, over at Hope Junkie and Lindsey at The Write Words both presented me with the oh so lovely Stylish Blogger Award.

Thanks ladies! (Don't worry, I'll post 7 obscure things about myself really soon!)

Now on to the birthday celebration....

It's not here. Sorry. It's at The Mixed-Up Files. You'll just have to go visit to see what it's all about!

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss and Happy Read Across America Day everyone!

Books In Real Life

2011-02-28T07:00:00.008-05:00

For my daughter's 10th birthday last May I bought her THE HUNGER GAMES. She loved it so much, that's all she talked about.

When she learned there was a sequel, she just had to have it. So we bought it and again, that's all we heard about.

At that point, I figured, I better take a look at this book. So I read the first two books in the series and fell in love.

I talked about it so much my husband had to read them. Then my 12 year old daughter got involved. When MOCKING JAY came out we pretty much fought over who was going to read it first. (I won, since I read the fastest.)

But that's not what my blog post is about. Not really.

It's about the impact of good books in real life.

Ever since we read THE HUNGER GAMES trilogy, we've adopted Katniss Everdeen's "Hollow Days" saying.

Whenever someone in our family is super hungry now, and no amount of food will fill us, it is called a Hollow day.

My children say it often. Very often. (Maybe I ought to think about feeding them more.)

Which got me thinking about the impact of books on our lives.

I noticed recently that the term MUDBLOOD (From the HARRY POTTER series) has been added to the urban dictionary. Has our society felt such a strong need for this term that it's become part of our language?

Or Madeleine L'Engle's famous line, "It was a dark and stormy night..." (A WRINKLE IN TIME) has become the ultimate cliche in the English language (though I'm pretty sure she didn't actually coin the phrase).

And then there's always my favorite, from Lewis Carroll's ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND. “One day Alice came to a fork in the road and saw a Cheshire cat in a tree. 'Which road do I take?' she asked. 'Where do you want to go?' was his response. 'I don't know,' Alice answered. 'Then, said the cat, it doesn't matter.'”

I LOVE that! Such great advice, from a cat, no less. :)

I'm in constant awe over how books can influence us as individuals, as families, as a society.

So have you ever read a book and adopted a piece of it in your life?

oh - BTW - if you are looking for some books to add to your real life, go visit Taryn's blog for an awesome contest!!

Top 10

2011-02-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

If you're one of my facebook friends, or if you read my blog post from last Friday, you'd know that I've had a sick house these past few days. It started with my little one who fell ill with Strep throat and possibly the flu. Then my husband, who had confirmed flu. Now my middle daughter is starting with a sore throat and fever. There's only two of us who remain - myself and my eldest daughter.

We're dropping like flies!

So, to beat the flu blues, I've come up with a list of the top 8 reasons why blogging is better than the flu.

#8 Bogging doesn't cause bed head. Unless of course you're blogging WITH bed head, then that's another story.

#7 Bogging doesn't make you sound like the adults on Charlie Brown cartoons (mwa, mwa, mwa, wah) when you talk through your stuffed up nose. Unless you accidentially bump your nose on the computer monitor straining to read the super tiny print somewhere on someone's blog that thought it would be funny to put small print somewhere, causing your nose to bleed so you have to hold it with a tissue while you talk.

#6 Bogging doesn't make your food taste bad. Unless you happen to read something gross that makes you want to hurl, then well, I can't control that.

#5 Blogging can be done without sound. Unless someone happens to post a video and in order to be polite you have to watch it and it just so happens to have a very loud segment of monkeys screeching.

#4 Blogging doesn't require doctor visits. Unless you get carpel tunnel, eyestrain or deep vein thrombosis.

#3 Blogging is free. Unless you have to go to a doctor appointment for that carpel tunnel, eyestrain or deep vein thrombosis.

#2 Blogging is painless. Unless....oh boy. Go see #'s 3 and 4.

And the number one reason that blogging is better than the flu....

#1 Blogging doesn't require anyone to see you! Unless you decide to skype or vlog, in which case, maybe you should have thought about that before you got sick.

Happy writing everyone! Stay healthy!

Free Crit Friday

2011-02-18T07:00:00.001-05:00

This is usually where I'd announce Free Crit Friday...but unfortunately I won't be offering my crit this week. I'm swamped with a revision on my first manuscript (one that I had shelved a while ago) and need to focus on finishing it!

Ya'know....I gotta GIT R DONE, ya'll!

But never fear, I'll be back next week with another offering. So tell your friends all about it and get your query letters/first pages ready!

In the meantime, here's a good laugh!

Happy Friday!

How Do YOU Measure Success?

2011-02-16T09:02:00.003-05:00

I read. A lot. As a writer, it's essential. As a business woman it's pertinent.

One thing I've been studying is this eBook trend, especially in self-publishing. I've read lots of success stories. One about a Miss Amanda Hocking. She sold 420,000 copies of her books last year. FOUR HUNDRED TWENTY THOUSAND! Okay, yes, I'm sure she's the exception to the rule. But then I read about Victorine Lieske who sold 27,000 books in January and made over $7,000 in that month alone.

Now, I don't know about you, but I could certainly deal with a $7,000 paycheck each month. I'd take it every other month for that matter. Heck, I'd take it every quarter. Because, quite frankly, that's more money than I'm making with my novel sitting on my hard drive collecting virtual dust.

I've heard lots of bad things about self publishing. But the amazing thing is that all the "bad stuff" all the stuff that says self-publishing has no merit, has always come from agents, editors and publishing houses. "Self-pubbing is for losers. People who couldn't make it in the real publishing industry."

I guess I would beg to differ. I mean, Amanda Hocking sure doesn't look like a loser to me. In fact, she's the one laughing. All the way to the bank.

Don't get me wrong here, I'm not bad-mouthing the publishing industry, or agents or editors. I just wonder what their opposition is.

When I'm reminded of all the people who've been successful in this world, I realize none of their success ever came to them through conventional methods. They thought outside the box and broke the mold.

So what do you think? Does this eBook/self-publishing thing have merit? Do you look down at authors who've chosen this route? Do you wish you had the money in Amanda Hocking's bank account?

By Small & Simple Things

2011-02-14T10:25:00.011-05:00

Great things come to pass. (Book Of Mormon, Alma 37:6)

You don't have to be Mormon, or Christian or any religion to believe the truth in those words. It is, quite simply, true. By small and simple things great things do come to pass.

These words wouldn't leave me this morning as I drove my children to school, as I did my errands, as I ate my breakfast. They wouldn't leave me because there is a great truth to them. And that truth can apply to anything in our lives.

This past week I made a valentine baby shower cake. Here's a picture:

It took a lot of work to make this cake. Not only did I have to gather the ingredients, but I had to prepare the pans, make the batter, bake the cakes, whip the frosting, knead the marshmallow fondant, make the filling, allow the cakes to cool, then level, fill and frost the cakes...all before I could even start decorating. In the end, the product was beautiful (or so I like to think).

Then over the weekend, I made Valentine cupcakes with my children. And it all started with one, very small, simple thing:

Yup. A fruit roll-up.

And from that simple fruit roll-up came one great thing:

A beautiful cupcake decorated with a fruit roll-up rose.

This simple beauty, this one great thing, made me think about our writing. Our stories start off as a small and simple thought, an idea. We put that idea on paper and a story develops. Characters form. A story is born.

Yet, if we look at each word individually, we might think, "That's no big deal, it's just a word. It's simple. Small."

But we must never admonish the fact that from those small and simple words came a great manuscript. That together they formed something wonderful.

So as you write today, as you revise and edit, think about the great thing that is your manuscript. Don't fret. For you know as well as I do, that "...by small and simple things are great things brought to pass..."

I Get It. I Totally Get It. (Oh and Winners Announced)

2011-02-09T07:00:00.003-05:00

First I want to say THANK YOU to all my awesome new followers! I'm so glad you found me here and look forward to getting to know all of you better!

Second I want to tell you how brave each and every one of you are. It's not easy to let anyone crit your work, let alone a stranger. Thank you for trusting me and I hope I was able to give you something useful to apply to your manuscripts! Each of you are clearly talented writers who will go far.

There's something really important I learned in this process. Wanna know what it is?

I'm gonna tell you anyway.

But first, a quick story....

I started critting the 150 words on a Saturday afternoon. And because I'm kinda, sorta, maybe a little OCD, I did them in order. It was obvious that there was a lot of talent in the bunch. But every crit I did I kept going back to the very first story. I couldn't stop thinking about it. I'd read another story, crit it, then go back to that first one. I'd read the authors words, then my own. Then I started pacing. And, whenever I got the chance, I would yak on and on about it to anyone who would listen to me. I couldn't get it out of my head.

When I finished with all the samples, I went back to that very first story. I couldn't stand it anymore so I emailed the author and asked for the first chapter. I just HAD to know what was going to happen in that story. Srsly, it was all I could think about. The author sent me the first chapter and I was even more intruiged. I wanted the WHOLE manuscript.

Here's the author, Taryn's, revised submission based on my feedback:

The Sour Patch Kids in the bottom of Heidi Maverick’s sparkly clutch probably bothered him the most.

The Sour Patch Kids, or the ticket stub from that new boy band’s concert.

The Sour Patch Kids, or the ticket stub, or the cotton candy flavored lip gloss.

As he dug deeper into the purse, those random bits of garbage tickled his hands with worry. He thought he’d picked the right girl this time. From afar, this Heidi had looked like a high school upperclassman, slutty and desperate—just the kind of girl he usually took. He had even chatted her up to make sure her family wouldn’t come looking; sure enough, her parents were another dead-beat dad and overworked mom. Looked good and normal. Most importantly, profitable. So, he signaled to his partner and spiked her drink.

There were many reasons that I adored these first 150 words.
From the start, the voice is solid. And it's unique, but not so different that I couldn't connect. In fact, I kinda, sorta liked the slimebag. So win #1 for Taryn.
The next thing that I picked up on was the bit of mystery - what else did he find in the purse? why was he going through her purse? what was he going to do to her? and why? I JUST HAD TO KNOW! Score #2.
Quite frankly, I didn't need another reason after that. Those two things were enough. GOAL Taryn!

Here's the weird thing. This isn't a story I would normally choose to read. But that suddenly didn't matter. At all.

Okay - so back to my point. I learned something really valuable from this experience. On a very small scale, I could understand how agents/editors feel when they read our queries and sample pages. Every submission I read was GREAT writing. They were all intriguing. But this story I could NOT get out of my head no matter how hard I tried.

And I imagine that's the same thing that happens to agents/editors. They see lots of great writing everyday. Stuff that might be perfect for someone else - but just doesn't resonante with them for some reason or another. But when that one story comes along that they can't forget, it's like a drug. You have to have more!

So the next time an agent/editor says, "You are a good writer, I just didn't fall in love with your story." Believe them. It means exactly that. It honestly doesn't mean anything else.

Now, for those of you who have skipped reading this post just to scroll down to the bottom to see the winners - well, you're in luck!

Here they are:

#1 - KRIS
#2 - RACHEL
#3 - BETHANY
#4 - PAM

And the existing follower whose pitch I LOVED is ANGIE! I'd love to see the first page (not just 150 words)!

Email me at Amiegr8tstuff (at) aol (dot) com to claim your prize. Please list your prize preferences, from greatest to least, so I can try to make sure everyone gets something they'll be happy with :)

The Best 150 Followers Contest. Ever.

2011-02-02T07:00:00.004-05:00

You heard me right! 150 followers contest is in full swing! And boy do I have some awesome shiz in store for you!

First - the prizes:

*1: All of my awesome new followers (that's anyone that has joined since January 1, 2011) will automatically receive a critique of their first 150 words of their manuscript! And because I LOVE new followers so much, anyone that joins the site from now until Friday, February 4th, 2011 will also receive a free crit of their first 150 words!

Say wha??

Yup you heard correctly. Anyone that joins from now until 2/4/11 will get a free crit of their first 150 words!

Yes. I. Am. Insane.

*2: The Query Queen herself, Elana Johnson, will crit one query letter. Plus, she's supplied some swag! And if you don't know who she is or why you want this prize, then you really need to come join us here on blogger earth. :)

*3: Rose Cooper is the best blogger. Ever. And she's offering up a surprise! I'm not telling what it is. You'll just have to enter to find out!

*4: Author Judy Mammay will donate one of her books to a lucky winner. If I can brag, Judy is one of my crit partners and is kinda awesome.

*5: One *like new* hardcover copy of THE REPLACEMENT by Brenna Yovanoff.

Now - the rules. Yes, we need rules. Now listen up!

#1 - Existing followers leave a comment and include a one line pitch of your book. One lucky winner will be selected to receive a free crit of their first 150 words. New followers MUST leave their 150 words as part of their comment to qualify for the free crit (no private emails please!) (+5 points)

Some rules about entries:
A: Please keep it "G" rated (no bad words, no sex, drugs or violence. I have some teens and middle-grade followers and would like to keep it clean for them.)
B: Please limit it to 150 words (or less). Don't take advantage of my craziness and go over! If your 150 words ends in the middle of a sentence, stop at the sentence before.
C: Include your email addy with your entry so I can, ya'know, mail you the crit.
Got it? Good!

#2 - Tweet this. And leave the link in the comments. (+5 points)

#3 - Facebook this. Leave the link in the comments. (+5 points)

#4 - Blog this. Leave the link in the comments. Are you seeing a pattern yet? (+5 points)

#5 - Get a friend to follow my blog. (+10 points)

#6 - Total your points (+5) Yes. I'm that lazy.

Easy enough! Now get to work!! HURRY! Contest ends MIDNIGHT EST Friday, February 4th, 2011!

Funks Are NOT Fun

2011-01-31T07:00:00.003-05:00

Confession: I've been in a funk lately.

So if you haven't heard a lot from me recently, now you know why. Plus, it's been super busy with lots of snow days, a birthday (I'm the parent of a teenager now! - holy cow when did I get so OLD?) and doing some critiques on the side.

Thankfully, though, I'm digging myself out of this funk. I have to. I have books to write and blogs to visit!

One of the best ways to cheer myself up (other than chocolate) is to party! So I'm hosting a sweet party here this week! Plus, I've reached 150 followers now and I need to welcome all of them the right way! The new followers will have something special in store just for them! That's my welcome and thank you for finding and following me!

Mark your calendars for Wednesday when the contest will be in full swing. And spread the word because no one will want to miss out!

In the meantime, enjoy this video!

See you all Wednesday!

I Stand Corrected

2011-01-24T23:29:00.005-05:00

Last week I blogged about the importance of creating a likable character. And for the most part, everything I said is true.

But....you know how I said I like to break the rules? Well, I'm reading BEASTLY by Alex Flinn and let's just say she's very successfully broken the likable character rule!

The MC is a horrible, mean-spirited, selfish character who qualifies - under every definition of the word - as a beast.

So why did it work for Alex Flinn?

Maybe it helps that most of us are familiar with the story of BEAUTY & THE BEAST so we know that the MC will eventually turn-around, have a change of heart and become such a wonderful, lovely person we can't help but swoon.

Maybe it's because Alex Flinn has created a character that's so awful, we're actually glad that a witch turns him into a beast. Serves him right. The jerk.

Maybe it's the mastery of an obnoxious, rich-boy characterization. Maybe it's attitude. Maybe it's voice. Maybe it's lots of things.

Whatever the reason, it works.

So if you decide to create an obnoxious character, make sure your reasons are well-grounded. And that, in the end, your character can redeem themselves.

Happy writing!

Free Crit Friday

2011-01-21T07:00:00.002-05:00

You know what that means....yup. Leave your query letter, first page of your manuscript or a one page synopsis in the comments! Don't forget to include your email address so I can send you the crit. For those of you that submitted last week, don't worry, I'm still working on them! I got a little behind but it looks like I'm all caught up now and can finish them soon :)

Okay, so some of you are probably wondering why I do the crits privately and don't post them on my blog for everyone to comment on. Well, there's a few reasons for this.

1 - There's a gazillion blogs that do that already.

2 - I have to be different. Ya'know, I'm a trendsetter ;)

3 - Sharing any portion of your work is a scary, scary thing. And I think anyone who is seeking help deserves to have that work evaluated privately. I like to think of it like auditioning for a musical. In the audition process you might have some confidence or else you wouldn't be there, but then you see your competition and kinda freak out. But once you've been cast in the leading role, then you know you're good enough.

4 - Maybe it's just me, but I think the open forum thing invites people to be TOO open sometimes and they might make unthoughtful....okay harsh...okay fine - RUDE comments. And that just won't help anyone.

5 - Let's face it, rejection is painful. Critiques shouldn't be.

There you have it. Now leave your query letter for me to shred, I mean critique. :)

Happy weekend!

Why It's Important to Create a Likable Character

2011-01-19T07:00:00.002-05:00

If I told you I was sitting in English class and was forced to work in a group with a really stupid, obnoxious girl, you might be okay with that. But if I then told you that I threw a book at that girl, you might have a bit of disdain for me.

However, if I approach that situation from another angle you might have another opinion altogether.

So let's say I've been picked on all year by this really obnoxious cheerleader type who spends her time getting attention by acting stupid. She's mocked me, drawn pictures of me and hung them on my locker for everyone to see, stolen my boyfriend and spread untrue rumors. All the while, I stand painfully by, watching in humiliation. But, despite it all, I've never felt sorry for myself. I've pressed forward knowing that someday this girl will get what she deserves.

Then by some act of a cruel God, we're forced to pair up in English class and work on an assignment together. Halfway through this assignment she puts on her stupid act and pretends that she doesn't know a very basic, common word in the English language. Her peers give her attention and coddle her. But I'm frustrated because although not a perfect student, I have a strong work ethic. So I get up from my desk, walk across the room and tell her "No one's that stupid. And if you are, then that's pathetic. Here's a dictionary to help you out." Then I throw the book at her face.

The teacher comes up to me and asks, "What was that all about?"
And I say, "She's a moron!"
The teacher then says, "That may be true." Gives a laugh and walks away.
Obnoxious stupid cheerleader type is moved to another classroom the next day.

Chances are in the second scenario you're rooting for me.

Why?

Simple. I got you to like me first.

And that's what you have to do with your characters. We need to like them. We need to understand their motives. We need to feel their pain, sorrow, joy and excitement.

So the next time you're writing and developing your character, ask yourself, "Is he/she likeable?" "Would Amie approve?"

If your answer is no, then you need to rethink you angle. Develop a trait that draws us to the character instead of pushing us away from them.

But, on the other hand, if you can answer yes to those questions, then you're doing great!

Oh and btw - it's a true story.

Free Crit Friday

2011-01-14T07:30:00.002-05:00

It's Friday and you know what that means! Time for critiques!

If you have a query, two page synopsis or the first page of your manuscript that you'd like me to critique, leave it in the comments and I'll give it a go! Don't forget to include your email addy otherwise it makes it difficult to get in touch with you ;)

We've had a few success stories already - so let's keep that success rolling! I want ALL of my followers to have an awesome writing year! It's time for all of us to nab that agent and book deal!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Irony

2011-01-12T07:30:00.000-05:00

It's like rain on your wedding day....oh wait, that's not really irony...it's actually good luck.

Drowning in chocolate. Hmm...maybe not quite irony but definately a good way to go!

Choking on a lifesaver. Ah yes. That would be irony.

So why do people have such a hard time defining irony? Check out this video to find out!

Happy Wednesday :)

BREAKING NEWS!!!

2011-01-11T11:13:00.004-05:00

So most of you know already that this isn't one of my regular blogging days. But, in case you haven't heard there is BIG NEWS out there in the literary world!

Yep. That's right.

My blogging buddy, my awesome crit partner, my BFF, ROSE COOPER, is celebrating her book birthday!! GOSSIP FROM THE GIRLS ROOM - A BLOGTASTIC! NOVEL was just released TODAY!

Now for those of you who are totally uncool and are completely undetected by the popular radar, I promise if you buy this book your popularity will skyrocket 3 points. But I will have to subtract one point because you had to be instructed by MOI on how to be cool ;)

I'm just kidding, of course. I can't change your popularity status. (really - what were you thinking?)

Anyway, my copy arrived yesterday afternoon (fully signed, might I add, in none other than bubble gum pink!) and I started to read it aloud to my daughters at the dinner table. I must warn you right now - this book is not one that should be read while eating or drinking. We laughed so hard that my kids choked on their food (yeah, um, thanks for that Rose) and my food got cold because I couldn't stop reading (right - like I said, thanks a lot Rose). I would love to say I finished this in one sitting - but after about 4 chapters, my 10 year old grabbed the book from my hands and proclaimed "MINE!" then she ran off and hid the book. About twenty minutes later she returned....with a notebook....fully labeled as her "Pre Blogging Notebook" it also included direct orders of harrassment and punishment should anyone read it. Uh-hum. Yes, thanks again for that, ROSE. ;)

So go get cool and visit Rose's blog today. Then buy a copy of her book. Because if you don't I'll have to tell Sofia to write an anonymous post about your uncoolness and total unpopularity factor - and let's just say....that wouldn't be a good thing!

New Year, New Goals, New Me

2011-01-10T07:30:00.002-05:00

I'm an awful, horrible person because I totally missed blogging last week. But instead of harping on it I'm going to get right into the nitty-gritty of my resolutions. If you haven't made any yet, hopefully my post will inspire you to make your very own shiny resolutions perfect for breaking in February!

One thing that getting older has taught me: There are some things I just CANNOT control. So, while in years past I may have made a goal like "Lose weight" or "Get an agent" I realize now those just aren't reasonable things to ask of myself.

Instead I've made goals I can accomplish:

#1 Eat chocolate. And lots of it.
#2 Write. Good books, hopefully. But if they suck, then - eh, who cares. I can just write another one.
#3 Avoid exercise. At. All. Costs. Because the way I see it, my heart has a set number of beats to begin with, why speed up that process?

Okay, okay. I know these aren't your average New Years Resolutions. I know they are going to involve a whole fricking lot of hard work. But, I'm ready!

BRING. IT. ON!!!

Goodbye to Another Year

2010-12-31T10:30:00.004-05:00

It's time to say goodbye to another year and ring in the new. 2010 was the start of a new decade and although it had some pretty miserable memories, there are lots of good things to remember, too.

* I wrote my first middle-grade manuscript
* I joined and helped build The Mixed-Up Files
* Although I had tons of requests, and then an equal amount of rejections on my YA, I averaged 95% feedback from agents on these rejections.
* My MG received about 99% feedback from agents (yep - that's pretty close to all of the agents that read my ms gave me more than just a form rejection)
* My MG is still out with agents - but that's all I can say about that :)
* Even though I hated it at the time, I participated in NANO.
* I started blogging (technically I started in 2009 - but it was December, so it's close enough to 2010 in my book)
* I've met some really awesome bloggers, writers and more importantly - FRIENDS :)
* I joined a crit group. They are the bomb. I adore those women.
* My article about advocating for learning disabled children was sought after by well-known charities for distribution rights.
* A short story I wrote won a contest and will be published in a Christmas anthology

These are just the tip of the iceberg. There is so much that's happened in my personal life and family that I have to be grateful for, too.

I hope that the later half of 2010 (the contest and publication) are just a sign of things to come in 2011. Monday I'll be posting my goals for the new year. If you haven't written yours already, I hope you'll join me then and set your goals with me!

And I hope, too, for all my blogger buddies and friends that you have a wonderful 2011. May your hopes and dreams come true!

Christmas Memories and a Thank You!

2010-12-29T07:00:00.005-05:00

It's been a busy week here. Christmas was amazing. Many wonderful gifts were exchanged. Lots of extra pounds of food was consumed (which I will most likely spend all of 2011 trying to lose!). But the best part was enjoying every moment with my girls and husband. It really doesn't get any better than that!

I have three favorite memories from Christmas that I'd like to share with you.

First was when my middle daughter (who is only 10) opened a present from me which happened to be a set of books. Gregor The Overlander by Susanne Collins. She did this thing where she pretended to pass out. Since the camera was rolling, I asked her what the gift was. She said the title and author. Then I asked her who this Susanne Collins was. She said, "Only my favorite author!" I love that my children are excited to receive books as gifts. Ever since The Hunger Games she has been hooked on reading and even more so on Susanne Collins. This child also received a real bow and arrow from Santa (with a note that read "Don't shoot your eye out kid!") because she wants to be like Katniss Everdeen! See what books can do?! Oh my! I may have to call Mrs. Collins and have a little chat with her...

Second is when my baby (so what if she's 7!) opened her Rapunzel/Tangled tower and said, "Wow! This is a lot bigger than I thought!" We all cracked up laughing. It was just too precious.

Third was when my eldest daughter pointed at three wrapped presents sitting on the shelf by the tree. They were the special books that I always get for them (I wrote a post on mixed-up files about that). She must have asked a dozen times when she could open hers. Then she confessed that it was always her favorite Christmas present. I mean, how do you not well up with that?

So yeah, it was a wonderful Christmas.

I'd also like to thank all of you for your support and votes on my short story! I won readers choice and my story will appear in next year's Christmas anthology! If you haven't stopped by the site (LDS Publisher), you should. There were lots of great stories - all of which deserve to be read.

I hope that winning that contest is a start of many great things to come in the new year!

Contest!

2010-12-20T07:00:00.004-05:00

Unfortunately, I can't say that I'm having one here on my blog.....but there is one over at LDS Publisher (you'll notice the little button on my sidebar) and winning entries will be published in next year's Christmas anthology!

Okay, so the contest deadline expired on the 18th. So, you're probably wondering why I'm telling you about it. Well, I entered and I really need your votes! However, the rules state that I'm not allowed to tell you which story is mine. And since I like to play by the rules, I can only hope that you will recognize my "voice" as you read through the stories. I would give you a hint, but I think that would be cheating, too. And if you can't figure out which story is mine, then hopefully you'll pick the one that moves you to tears (okay, that was a small hint).

I'd love to hear what story you thought was mine, so drop me a comment after you've voted!

Thanks for your support!

P.S. My story is entered in the "unpublished" portion of the contest. That is something I can tell you - and it narrows it down to 20 entries :)

Things We Say Wrong

2010-12-13T07:00:00.007-05:00

I have another sick kiddo at home this week, so I'm just going to leave you with a short video clip. It's definately worth watching. Not only is it informative - but this guy is pretty funny, too!

Enjoy! Happy writing!

Free Crit Friday

2010-12-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

It's free crit Friday! Just leave a one line pitch or your query in the comments and I'll critique it for you!

Also - I'm over at my group blog today - From The Mixed-Up Files. I've highlighted the best gift-giving books for the holiday season. Come check it out!

My Uncle Is Famous!

2010-12-08T07:00:00.010-05:00

I've been working on this multi-generation scrapbooking project (not the smartest idea to do during the holiday season...but no one ever said I was brilliant) and since my mom has like every photo in existence of our family I asked her to email some pictures to me. As my inbox flooded I called my mom and we discussed some of the photos. She mentioned that she found one of the McTeer Bridge in Beaufort, S.C. It happens to be a photo I have as well since I had visited there just last summer.

Anyway, it got us talking about the man the bridge is named after - James Edwin McTeer .

James was my grandmother's uncle, which makes him my great, great uncle.

While I was chatting with my mom, I did an internet search to see what kind of information I could find about Uncle James. What I found out was pretty amazing!

1. James McTeer was the youngest Sherrif in the history of the nation - not South Carolina - THE NATION!

2. He practiced Voodoo. Actually it was technically called Hoodoo (folk magic) There is a difference between the two - Voodoo is a religion while Hoodoo is simply magic (though it has a strong tie to the Bible). So it's not quite the same as the pin-cusion dolls and shrunken heads that we think of when someone mentions Voodoo. Hoodoo is a use of herbology and charms.

3. James purchased, and lived in, the home of "Tillie" Maude Odell Doremus (a famous actress from Beaufort).

And last but not least.....

4. Uncle James was an AUTHOR! He wrote four books all primarily about the Low Country (South Carolina). While his non-fiction works probably never reached much beyond his immediate area, I have a feeling that they were received enthusiastically since he was the local expert. Since these books are long out of print, I won't know anything about them or the publisher until I visit the Beaufort Public Library next spring. But I'm excited to dig into them while I'm there!

I envy Uncle James for a few reasons. He didn't have to worry about finding an agent. He probably didn't fret over finding a publisher. This also means that more than likely he didn't have to face the fear and pain of rejection. And his knowledge was shared with others because it was worth while. No one debated over whether his books would be New York Times Bestsellers. No one worried if he'd get a great review. And no one worried if the books would return the intial investment of an advance.

Uncle James wrote a book. It was published. The end.

It makes me rethink my writing goals.

Is it really that important to be a NYTimes Bestseller or to have a fantastic Booklist or Kirkus review? Is it really that important to make a gazillion dollars?

Or, quite simply, is it important to write a book that will bring joy to others?

Sure, I'd love to be on the NYTimes Bestseller list, or have a great review. Of course I'd love to have loads of money.

But what's most important to me is that someday there will be someone out there reading a story I wrote and it will touch their life in a way that nothing else could. Because really, that's what matters most.

So I think I'll take a lesson from Uncle James.

What about you?

Sick Kids = No Writing

2010-12-06T22:00:00.003-05:00

I really wanted to get a post up sooner today...but my little one has been home sick. Strep throat. Poor thing. And I've been so wrapped up in writing and edits that I hadn't been grocery shopping. So there were no comfort foods for her (ie: lollipops, chicken noodle soup and ice cream). And no comfort food for me (need I tell you it's chocolate???). You can probably imagine how stressesd I was. Needless to say, I pretty much accomplished nothing. But I figure that's okay. She's only little once and everything else can wait. Right?

So, my dear blogger buddies, I hope you've had a great weekend and a great Monday. Hopefully I'll survive this week and can join you all on Wednesday!

Free Crit Friday

2010-12-03T09:17:00.003-05:00

It's free critique Friday! You know what that means! Leave your query letter or a one line pitch in the comments and I'll critique either your query letter or the first page of your manuscript!

Also, in the spirit of giving, for the month of December I'm going to give YOU the option to write a blog post! If you'd like to be included send me an email at amiegr8tstuff (at) aol (dot) com

Happy Friday!
Happy Writing!

I'm a NaNo Loser

2010-12-01T09:01:00.005-05:00

And proud of it. Sort of.

Of course I'd be lying if I said I didn't hope to have a completed manuscript by now. That's why I tried NaNo in the first place.

Still, I'm proud of the fact that I gave NaNo a try. Even if I wasn't a "Winner."

There are many people who enter NaNo every year. They "win" and emerge with a 50,000 word manuscript. So, why didn't I win NaNo? Well, here are my top reasons that NaNo didn't work for me.

COMPETITION I don't like competition. Honestly, I can count on one hand how many contests I've entered in hopes of winning a MS crit with an agent. And for whatever reason NaNo felt like a competition to me. I know it's not. But it felt that way.

WORK I don't mean that writing is work. What I mean is that I don't want writing to feel like a job. Elana Johnson wrote a great blog post about that. And I couldn't agree more. Writing is enjoyable for me. It's something that I LOVE doing. And I want to keep it that way. I never want to feel like writing is a job because there's no quicker way to suck the joy out of something than to think of it as work.

RACE MENTALITY Recently my husband ran a marathon. Due to some really incredible circumstances he barely made it to the race on time (that's a story for another day). As he ran across the starting mats he could see all the other runners way ahead of him. He had to remind himself not to worry about catching up, but to pace himself and run the race how he'd trained for it. The same is true for NaNo. Although I started off strong, life quickly got in the way and my word count fell behind. Before long I had the race mentality. I HAD to catch up! But I'm not like those other writers, so I would never finish 50,000 words in 9 days like one of my crit partners (Ahem, yeah, I'm talking about you MINDY!). But really, that's OKAY.

INTERNAL EDITOR I just couldn't turn it off. To tell the truth though, I don't like shutting her out. Thankfully my internal editor isn't one who tells me my writing sucks. She stands quietly by encouraging me to write better and showing me ways to improve. Many people would give their writing hand to have a gift like that. And I do consider it a gift. Since I couldn't turn off my internal editor, I felt like I couldn't go back and review the story. The urge to edit would be just too strong. Like a frickin drug. And because I couldn't review, I had a hard time connecting to the story. It became difficult to see where I'd been and where the story was going.

WORD COUNT I've had many writer friends who LIVE by word count goals. Not me. Granted, I do tend to have a goal range, but it's a RANGE not a set minimum of words. My first Middle-Grade manuscript I wrote in 6 days with a word count range of 20-30,000 words. When the manuscript was complete at 24,000 I was happy with that. Of course it has now gone through a HUGE revision and I'm up to 40,000 words - and counting. If I had to choose one primary reason why I failed at NaNo - word count goal would be it. Not because I can't write 50K words (my YA was 91K) but because I felt like I couldn't edit (= delete) any words. So the times that I couldn't turn off my internal editor and I allowed myself to edit, I had to do it in RED so all my words would be there, plus the new ones that I wanted to use instead. It kind of became a huge jarbled mess after a while.

DAILY WRITING This goes with the mentality of thinking that writing is a job. I'll be honest with you. I don't write daily. < GASP > I write when my muse visits. Sometimes that IS every day. Sometimes that every day is multiple times a day - even waking me up at 2 am to race to my laptop in my freezing cold dining room and write a scene that's screaming to have it's place on a page. Other times, I might not write for days. For one, I have a life. For another, I'm not going to force something out if I'm really not feeling it. Especially if it just means meeting a word count goal.

So there you have it. NaNo didn't work for me. But it did teach me something very, very valuable. I don't need a dedicated month to write a manuscript.

I'm glad though to have a red-marked, horribly written, sloppy start to a really great Gothic MG. And I'm really excited to finish it. On my terms. :)

What about you? What was your experience with NaNo?

Brainstorming and Crit Groups

2010-11-29T08:31:00.008-05:00

So my friend Rose Cooper blogged about revisions today. You should definately visit her blog.

But anyway, she got me thinking about revisions and brainstorming and how important it is to have a crit group.

Recently I've been working on a revision which included the addition of a secondary plot/ twist. I felt as though I had two options. If I only had myself to bounce these options off of, it would have sounded like this:

Me: So, I'm thinking. For this MS, the MC can have choice A or choice B. Choice A has this going for it, but it has these negatives. Choice B has just as many pluses and negatives. Which do you think I should go with?

Self: Sounds good.

Say what?

Do you see why you can't ask yourself? First of all you'll either get confused or just agree with yourself. Second of all, I didn't ask if it sounded good. I needed a selection. But I didn't want to have to choose, so I just avoided it altogether.

Now when I asked my crit group there were dozens of lenghty emails back and forth (which I won't post here because you'd be reading this blog post for a week - and i'm sure that wouldn't make you a happy camper). Anyway, the conversations led to more questions and more thinking. Ultimately those additional questions led me to my final answer. Choice B.

So, like I've said before. Get a crit group. They're there for more than just critiquing a manuscript. They're great for brainstorming, plotting and support!

Do You Ever Feel Like This?

2010-11-24T07:00:00.004-05:00

I do. All. The. Time.

Have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

How To Torture a Main Character

2010-11-22T07:00:00.015-05:00

For the best torture ever, simply administer one Lasix pill. 40 mg ought to do it. But you have to give your MC this pill before:

A) a major agent requested revision is due
B) housecleaning for guests
C) packing for vacation
D) all of the above

Then sit back and watch as your MC is glued to the toilet for the next 27 consecutive minutes and:

A) her legs fall asleep for sitting so long
B) other characters gather and laugh outside the bathroom door
C) these same characters pin signs to the bathroom door that read "OUT OF ORDER" or "Out of Commission for the next 24 hours. Hope you can hold it." These signs must also include illustrations of toilets overflowing.
D) these hilarious characters (who will soon be grounded) slip items under the bathroom door while laughing.
These items consisit of:
1. pen and paper (might as well work, right?)
2. magazines
3. diapers

Have the husband stand outside the door and make comments such as:
A) "Bet you feel ten pounds lighter!"
B) "Better flush before it overflows."
C) "I think you just made a new world record!"

After 27 minutes have the MC emerge from the bathroom, shaken and numb, only to race back in the bathoom five minutes later. Every time the MC tries to get comfortable and relax, have that Lasix pill kick into high-gear sending them to the toilet, yet again.

Repeat this for the next 24 hours.

If your MC can emerge from this as a person who:
A) can tolerate harrassment
B) has the bladder the size of a rhinocerous
C) can laugh at themselves
then you've successfully tortured your character and refined them. They are now ready for anything that comes their way.

Have fun!

warning: do not attempt this on living people. ever. they will be scarred for life.

Knee-Deep

2010-11-17T07:00:00.003-05:00

In revisions.

Thankfully it's not dishes, or laundry or cleaning of any sort. Oh wait....I'm always digging myself out of those trenches. Never mind.

However, I do wish I were knee-deep in chocolate or brownies or ice cream. I'll deal with the weight gain and numb limbs later.

But I'm excited to be knee-deep in these revisions....even if it means my NaNo had to be put on hold. Because doing this revision means I'm one step closer....or so I hope.

OH! OH! OH!
Last week I had some really exciting news and I totally flaked on sharing it with you! I was contacted by Baltimore Family Navigator / Catholic Charities. They wanted permission to distribute my article Navigating The Storm: Advocating For Your Learning Disabled Child. That was so exciting! Not to mention validating. I'm thrilled that they believe in the article enough to share it with families in need. That rocks.

And I'll tell you what - after working out those negotiations I realized just how important it is to have an agent. So yeah. Agent. Good. I think I'll try to get me one of those :)

AND finally...

A big shout out to all my new followers!! *Waves* So glad you found me! Can't wait to hear from you and read your blogs, too!

Hope you're having a great week.

You'll Shoot Your Eye Out!

2010-11-08T07:00:00.006-05:00

As you know, I've been participating in NaNo. I know we're only 8 days into it, but it only took me till day 3 to figure out that NaNo isn't for me.

I'm the kind of writer that hates editing. So instead of having a HUGE, overwhelming project full of WORD VOMIT at the end, I prefer to edit little by little as I go. Yes, of course, there will still be edits, but they won't be all-consuming. Usually it ends up being minor tweaks. But with NaNo, editing while you write is counter-productive to reacing that 50K word count at the end of 30 days. So I end up writing with wreckless abadonment and boy, is it a train wreck!

Here's a GEM I wrote the other day:
Not one part of her would cooperate with her thoughts. It was like something else was commanding her body to do something else.

OMG - WTFreak???

Seriously. That's. Bad.

Kinda reminds me of Ralphie describing the Red Rider BB Gun.

"...And this thing which tells time..."

Uh - I think he means a CLOCK!

So if i hadn't been NaNo-ing it, the sentence would have read like this:
There wasn't a single part of Blair's body that would cooperate with her thoughts. Not her arms, not her legs and certainly not her mouth. It was as though an unseen force had commanded her body into a grand mal seizure that she had no control over.

Much. Better.

Sure it still requires editing - but not the kind of work the first example needs.

So yeah, NaNo-ing = not for Amie. But I'll stick it out because once I make a commitment, I follow through with it.

What about you? Are you participating in NaNo? What's your experience with 30 days of literary abandon?

Halloween Cake

2010-11-03T07:00:00.002-04:00

As you know, I made a 3 tiered cake for my daughter's birthday party. Although each layer was beautiful, once assembled it leaned. I learned that there were two reasons for this: too much filling and skipping the vital step of the support rods.

The best part about cake decorating and writing (and just about everything in life) is that we learn from our experiences. And, if we're smart, we apply what we've learned to future projects.

Lucky for me - and a whole crowd of people at an awesome party - I applied that knowledge and guess what? My cake didn't lean! And, might I add, the design was pretty sa-weet!

So check it out!

What do you think?

Hope you are having a great week!

NaNoWriMo

2010-11-01T10:04:00.002-04:00

It's NaNoWriMo!! For those of you that live in a cave and don't know what that is - it's National Novel Writing Month. The goal is to write a novel (50,000 words) in 30 days. To be honest, I wasn't going to do this at all. Then it was, "well, I'll do it, just unofficially." Then, thanks to my writing buddies, I got roped into registering. I don't know if I should love them or hate them for it. :)

So what am I writing?

Good question.

I have no frickin idea.

Anyway, I put a widget on my side bar so you can see my progress. And if you're participating in NaNo you can friend me there. I'm registered as Amie Borst.

I wish you all the best this month with your novels!

Oh yes, and my apologies for missing Friday's post. It was kind of crazy here trying to finish the cake (which came out kick a$$, btw - pictures to follow soon).

Ok, I'm off to be chained to my keyboard for the next 8 hours, I mean write! See you when I come up for air!

Lessons From A Cake

2010-10-27T07:00:00.014-04:00

This past weekend my husband and I threw a trick-or-treat carnival birthday party for my youngest daughter. The kids wore costumes and went from game to game earning prizes which they placed in their goodie bags. It was tons of fun! But the Pièce de résistance was the 6 layer, 3 tiered cake I made for the occasion.

It's cool, right? Not bad for my first attempt at a fondant covered tiered cake.

Take a second look.

Yep. It's leaning.

Soooooo, I kinda learned a lot from this cake.

Like:

* Make sure you have a strong foundation or it will get crushed by the weight of the cakes on top. Lucky for me, my foundation didn't get smooshed. So, maybe I did do something right?

* Don't put too much filling between the layers. I know, I like filling, too. Especially the creamy, fudgy filling I used on the vanilla cake top layer. Oh but that oreo creme filling was super yummy sandwiched between dark chocolate cake. As good as the filling is, trust me. You don't need it. It's just an invitation for a replica of The Leaning Tower of Pisa.

* Don't skip steps - especially ones that strenghten the cake. Honestly, I really wished I would have followed the directions. Let's just say, I didn't use any dowel rods for the layers...I figured, why should I bother? I'm not transporting the cake. Plus it will only be assembled for 2 hours. What could happen in 2 hours? Well, needless to say, I found out.

These lessons can be applied to writing, too.

* Every story needs a strong foundation. Make the plot great, develop your characters, make the setting clear and you're off to a great start!

* Too many unneccessary details can crowd the story. Tempted to describe each petal on each flower in the vase on the counter in the kitchen where there are three large windows covered in fingerprints and smudgemarks? Stop! We don't need all the filling! While you may not end up with sliding layers, it will definately have an impact on the pace.

* Don't skip steps! Insert those dowel rods of outlining, plotting and character charts. Follow the directions (which means following the writing rules - most of the time :D ). It's important to make each layer - each plot and sub plot, each development, each conflict - strong on its own, so when its stacked against the others it can hold up by itself.

If you follow those simple steps, you should have great success in writing your manuscript.

Today I start work on another cake. This one's for a Halloween party on Saturday. I can't begin to tell you how nervous I am though. But I'm excited to apply what I've learned. Hopefully this time it won't lean!

Since NaNo is just around the corner, I'm looking forward to applying these same tips to my "unoffical" entry.

Long Overdue

2010-10-25T07:00:00.017-04:00

I've received a few awards recently and I'm long overdue in recognizing them. And many, many thanks to the beautiful ladies who sent them! If you haven't visited their blogs, be sure to stop by today!

My first award is The Cherry on Top Award. It's from both Laura Diamond AND Juanita.

The rule? Answer one question: If I had the chance to go back and change one thing in my life, would I, and what would it be?

Honestly, I've thought about this a lot over the years.

Sometimes I wish I hadn't given up that Broadway contract to get married. What would it have hurt to wait a year? But, thank heavens for hindsight. I'm glad I made the choices I did, when I did. I really wouldn't have my life any other way.

Other times I wish I'd gone to prom and my high school graduation. I skipped out on both. Most of my friends were college peers (I did early placement) so I didn't feel connected to anyone in my Senior Class. At the time it seemed like a good idea to just sit in the audience and watch everyone else graduate. To this day I still have nightmares that I didn't graduate from high school. So yeah, maybe I'd change that...

I've also received The Versatile Blogger Award from Tali

Here are seven pieces of info about me:

#1 - I've been married for 14 years. I was 20 3/4 when I met my husband (aka Ben Affleck) and we tied the knot a month before my 21st birthday. You do the math.

#2 - Daises are my favorite flowers. So when my book gets published, be sure to send me some :)

#3 - I'm addicted to perfume. My favorites: Angel by Thierry Mugler, Sexy Little Things Noir by Victorias Secret and Twilight Woods from Bath and Body Works. But I have a cabinet FULL - and by full I mean about 100 bottles - of different fragrances. Oh yes, the scent I wear is all dependant upon my outfit. They HAVE to match.

#4 - I started college at 16.

#5 - Warm baths + hot herbal tea + a good book = my favorite way of relaxing after a stressful day.

#6 - I make the best chocolate chip cookies. Ever.

#7 - Bruschetta is my favorite food. When I'm not eating chocolate, of course.

So....what about you? Any regrets? Anything you'd do differently? What are seven pieces of info that no one knows about you?

Free Crit Friday and Randomness

2010-10-22T07:00:00.002-04:00

Well, it's free crit Friday and unfortunately I don't have any query letters to share today. I'm a bit behind schedule. Hopefully I'll have something next week.

In the meantime, enjoy this video. (Hint: Do NOT try these tips on an unsuspecting agent) :)

As always, if you have a query letter or a first page you'd like me to crit, please post in the comments!

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Rose Cooper's Etsy Shop

2010-10-20T07:00:00.004-04:00

My good friend, Rose Cooper, is like an amazing genius artist and she just opened an etsy shop! So if you've ever wanted to buy amazing art, now's your chance! Plus, she still has a few slots left for commissioned pieces - and they'll arrive just in time for the holidays! 10% of your purchase will go to Joy to the World Foundation via Candyland.

AND....Rose has agreed to giveaway a piece of artwork to one lucky winner!!

Here's the rules:

Existing Peeps +5
New Peeps +3
Facebook it +2
Twitter it +2
Blog about it +3
Send me some peeps +4 (per peep!)
Add up your points +5 (yeah, i hate math...would much prefer you do it for me :D )

Don't forget to leave a link if you Blog, FB or Twitter!

Just for laughs (From Jokes About Writing):
A writer died and was given the option of going to heaven or hell.

She decided to check out each place first. As the writer descended into the fiery pits, she saw row upon row of writers chained to their desks in a steaming sweatshop. As they worked, they were repeatedly whipped with thorny lashes.

"Oh my," said the writer. "Let me see heaven now."

A few moments later, as she ascended into heaven, she saw rows of writers, chained to their desks in a steaming sweatshop. As they worked, they, too, were whipped with thorny lashes.

"Wait a minute," said the writer. "This is just as bad as hell!"

"Oh no, it's not," replied an unseen voice. "Here, your work gets published."

One last thing:
Please, please, please go check out The Mixed-Up Files. We're doing a 50, yes FIFTY, book giveaway! Go nominate your local library. HURRY!

How Close Are You?

2010-10-18T07:00:00.002-04:00

This past week I received the mother of all rejections. The Queen Mary.

It was the first rejection, in a long time, that really bummed me out.

Why?

Well, to be honest it wasn't because I happen to think this agent is so fabulous that I couldn't live without him/her. I mean, agents are just people. They put their pants on one leg at a time just like the rest of us.

No. The reason I was so bummed is because the rejection told me just how close I am. With words like "loved the voice" and "enjoyed the humor" and "you clearly have promise" how could I not get excited?

Then.....there was the final word: NO.

My heart sank. What? Why? What happened?

For two days I dwelt on the negative. I felt sorry for myself. I vowed that I was done with the process of getting published.

But thanks to my awesome crit group and my amazing online writing community I was reminded of the positive remarks in the email. Love. Enjoy. Potential. Those are some pretty strong words. With the help of my wonderful support system I realized that I'm close. Really close.

So, I could let the rejection get me down. I could stop writing. I could give up right now and be done with all of it.

What a waste that would be!

Instead I choose to focus on the positive. I remind myself that if someone who was passing could say such positive things, it really is just a matter of time before the right person sees my potential and says the one word I've been waiting to hear.

YES.

So, how close are you? Have you had feedback that makes you scream with excitement? Or cry with despair? What makes you press forward?

Free Critique Friday - Laura Diamond

2010-10-15T07:00:00.007-04:00

This week Laura Diamond was brave enough to let me post her first page. Laura and I met through the online writing community and I've had the priviledge of critting her entire manuscript! (well, honestly, I'm not done yet, but I'm still working on it - promise Laura!) Anyway, Laura and I happen to have written manuscripts with very similar premises, so there was an instant connection. It's been interesting to see how our stories have varied despite the similarities. She's a talented writer and it's been awesome to work with her.

Although she's had other crits on this manuscript, I think her revised first page is a good reflection of her amazing talent mixed with a little bit of my input.

Original:

A siren signaled a warning. I drew Sammie to me and stared at the dim outlines of bunk beds and chairs, scanning the darkened room for movement. The other Anemies—outcasts based solely on their low red blood cell count—huddled in pairs on their mattresses, crouched lower, as if curling into living meatballs would prevent the Sharpies from finding them, tearing them out of their beds, and burning them alive.

The siren’s call came to a crescendo. My heart hammered a traitorous beat while I tried to deprive my lungs of oxygen. Breathing lowered my ability to hear the stealthy movements of the Sharpies. I squeezed my eyes shut, praying the horrid sound of the raid call passed us by. It didn’t.

They’re stopping here, Justin.” Sammie huddled closer to my chest, trembling.
“Shhh.” I smoothed my little sister’s golden hair. Maybe this was our time to die. Surviving three years beyond our parents was unheard of anyway, especially with the Sharpies raiding sanctioned safe houses.

Safe houses. What lies they spread. Nowhere was safe. How could you hide when they heard your heart beating, when your scuffling movements sounded like thunderstorms, and your decay oozed out in waves. No matter how much you tried to cover your scent, they could still smell fear. The building was rife with it. . No wonder they hated us. Our stench. Our weakness. Our frail humanity.

Screams echoed from the first floor as our strong hold – a converted school building – was breached.

“To the roof, like I showed you,” I hissed in her ear.

A boy, no more than seven, grabbed my arm. “You’re not going out there are you?” I could feel the tremble in his hand and I suddenly felt sorry for him. He was in the worst place possible right behind the door. It was obvious he had no family to help him. Not that it mattered. His life was about to end anyway.

“Come with us.” Sammie extended her thin, pale hand.

“No. We go alone.” Sure, I felt bad for the kid, but he’d slow us down and then we’d all end up dead. No way I’d sacrifice my sister for some stranger, even if he was a child. Besides, it was hard enough keeping two mouths fed, let alone a third.

Revision:
A siren broke the night’s tense silence. I jerked my head from the nearly flat, musty pillow and listened. The sound grew louder. Son of a bitch.

“They’re stopping here, Justin.” Sammie huddled closer to me, trembling.

“Shhh.” I smoothed my little sister’s greasy hair. Showers came far and few between. So did luck. Hell, maybe this was our time to die. Really, how many more times could we escape a raid?

Our room had no door and the only light came from a low voltage bulb halfway down the hallway. I stared at the dim outlines of bunk beds, searching the murky space for movement. The other Anemies—huddled in pairs to maximize space—crouched lower, as if curling into living meatballs would prevent the Sharpies from finding them, tearing them out of their beds, and burning them alive.

“I’m scared.” Sammie’s shrill voice cut through the others’ whimpers. How could they call our refuge—an abandoned two story building that was once a high school—a safe house? Safety didn’t exist. Neither did hiding. How could you hide when they heard your heart beating, when your scuffling movements sounded like thunderstorms, and your decay oozed out in waves?

“You have to be quiet. It’s important to wait for the right time.” I grimaced at the salty, dank odor of sweat emanating from my pores. No wonder they hated us. Our stench. Our weakness. Our frail humanity.

The siren’s call came to a crescendo. My heart hammered even faster in response. Please let it pass us by.

It didn’t.

The shrieking of old hinges and splintering of wood followed the bellowing sirens. Screams erupted from the Anemies downstairs. A whoosh of compressed gas mingled with the yelps. The smell of gasoline burned my nose. “They brought flamethrowers,” I murmured.

Sammie buried her face into my chest. Her body shook with sobs.

“It’s okay, we know what to do, right? We’ve practiced this a million times,” I soothed her, but found little relief in my words.

WOW! Right? What a great example of taking a crit, applying what works and TRUSTING YOUR INSTINCT! *Claps* Nice job Laura!

Good News:
Laura entered her revised pages into an agent contest and she WON! Yep - Laura is getting a 25 page critique by the fabulous Natalie Fischer of the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency. I'm not jealous. At. All.

CONGRATS Laura! You deserve it!
And thanks for letting me share your story today!
All the best to you, my friend!

Now it's your turn! Post your query letter or a tag line for your manuscript in the comments and I'll select one to critique. Then your original and revision will be posted here in the coming weeks.

Editing

2010-10-13T07:00:00.002-04:00

This is me.

This is my brain while editing.

(Actually, it's really my daughter, but that's what my brain looks like right now. Minus the smile. Imagine a gnarled lip instead.)

Enough said. Have a nice day. :)

Trust Your Instinct

2010-10-11T07:00:00.009-04:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about editing, crit groups, feedback, etc. One thing I learned is to apply the feedback that improves our manuscript and steers it in the direction we want it to go.

But what if you suck at that? What if you're such a people pleaser that you want to apply everything? Even if your core is screaming, "NO!" What if that feedback is delaying you from finishing because you're afraid your manuscript will never be good enough? That it will never be ready?

I'm here to tell you one thing:

STOP!

You know what your story is. You know what you wanted to convey. If you wanted your protag to be weak and weepy (without being an annoying Bella Swan type) then go ahead! If you want your story to have purple trees - who's to stop you? If you want a dog with 6 legs - why do you have to give him 4? Because your beta said so? I don't think so!

Now, if you want a weak and weepy protag but your beta says she's fun and jovial - then, ok, you ought to rethink your writing. If you wanted purple trees but your beta clearly saw yellow bushes, then you should clarify your descriptions. If your 6-legged dog is coming off as a gigantic spider then well, you've got some work to do.

But if your weepy protag is just that, and if there is no mistaking your purple trees, and your 6 legged dog is clearly having issues with walking, then I'd say one thing:

Leave the darned manuscript alone!

Please. Seriously. Don't make the same mistakes I've made.

You have to trust your gut. Trust your instinct.

If you don't, you may very well regret it.

So thank your betas and crit partners for their feedback and suggestions. Then, take what helps and ignore the rest. You won't hurt their feelings. They won't be mad. Because, in the end, it's YOUR story. Not theirs. And they know that - just as much as you do.

Oh yes, and I almost forgot!

The winner of THE IRON BODKIN is....

(insert a drum roll here)

Gina Rose!

Congrats! Please contact me at amiegr8tstuff (at) aol (dot) com with your mailing address.

Free Critique Friday - Michelle Jefferies

2010-10-08T07:00:00.002-04:00

First things first - the winner of Anne Bradshaw's TRUE MIRACLES WITH GENEOLOGY is....

Kimberely Griffiths Little!

Congratulations! I hope you enjoy this wonderful book! Please send me an email at amiegr8tstuff (at) aol (dot) com so I can make sure this is sent to you asap!

Now on to the query critique. This weeks query is by Michelle Jefferies. Thanks for your bravery, Michelle!

Original:

Corporate soldier Antony Danic has never killed an innocent man — or doubted the integrity of the people he works for—until now. First, a not-so-subtle death threat from a fellow employee is directed at both him and his wife. That, combined with the fact that his last few assignments resemble personal revenge instead of corporate espionage, make him ask questions, and he’s not sure he wants the answers.

With the announcement of his wife's pregnancy after ten years of infertility, he realizes he must protect the most innocent life of all—his unborn child. When he botches a hit, his carefully woven security net begins to unravel. And as he scrambles to find a safe way out of his "till death do us part" contract , he faces the decision of his life: continue with business as usual—or do what's right, even if it puts his family in jeopardy.

Emergence is an 87,000 word work of science fiction. I wrote Emergence as a stand-alone; however, I have story lines planned and written for a series following Antony in the future.

Revision:

Corporate assassin, Antony Danic, has never killed an innocent man—until now.

During a dinner with friends, Antony realizes that his last assigned hit was a mere preacher. Learning this information only adds to the doubts beginning to form in his mind. When his assignments start to resemble personal agenda, instead of corporate espionage, he realizes what he thought was reality, is a lie. Just weeks before, while on vacation, Antony received a death threat from a fellow employee. It appeared that the corporation was unhappy with his performance on his previous hit. Even though he hoped it was just posturing from corporate, he began to re-think his safety, and his employer’s integrity.

When Antony botches a hit, his carefully woven security net begins to unravel. And as he scrambles to find a safe way out of his employers "till death do us part" contract, he faces the decision of his life: continue with business as usual and kill another innocent man—or do what's right, even if it puts his family in jeopardy.

Emergence is an 87,000 word work of adult tech suspense. I wrote Emergence as a stand-alone; however, I have story lines planned and written for a series following Antony in the future.

The BIG News:

Michelle presented the revised query at a conference and received two FULL requests from editors at national publishing houses!

CONGRATS Michelle!

You owe me some writing cookies. Chocolate chip is my favorite ;P

The Iron Bodkin

2010-10-06T07:00:00.008-04:00

Over the summer I won a contest. It was the coolest thing. I never - EVER - win anything. So when the book arrived, I was so excited I tore into it right away.

Well you know that feeling, when you're expecting a book to be so great and then you read it and you're all, well that sucked.

Let me just tell that was NOT the case with THE IRON BODKIN. This book was total and complete awesomesauce.
I've invited the author, Amy Allgeyer Cook, to share her experience and road to publication with us.

Me: Hey Amy. *waves* Can I just say you have a cool name. I'm not biased. At all. Thanks for joining us!

Amy: Thanks so much for letting me visit today. I love your blog and am so happy to be here.

Me: Awesome! Thanks. I LOVED your book! So what made you decide to write stories for Middle-Graders?

Amy: Actually, I started out writing picture books. I wrote four or five and finally realized ... I totally rot at picture books. I use too many words and my jokes are way too long. Middle grade is a natural fit for me. I'm just a big, goofy nerdball who still laughs when people make fart noises under their arms. Needless to say, most of my books are for boys.

Me: Fart noises. Ha ha. (I'm so glad she can't smell the one my dog just ripped cause let me tell you - that was raunchy!) So picture books to middle grade...if things keep heading up you'll be working on a YA next!

Amy: Actually, the book I'm working on now is YA, and I’m really enjoying it. The book I just finished is an upper middle grade book. I won a spot in the Nevada SCBWI Mentor Program so my mentor, Susan Hart Lindquist, and I will be working on that book for the next six months. I've also written chapter books, so I am happy writing anything except picture books.

Me: I knew it! So, back to THE IRON BODKIN...what was your inspiration?

Amy: At the time, I was reading a lot of books about the Knights Templar and some of the books mentioned the Priory of Sion (the supposed group that now supposedly holds the secret of the supposed Templar treasure). The idea of an ancient secret group totally hooked me and I set out to write a book where the main character was a member of one. Along the way, things changed a lot as things usually do when you set out to write a book. The ancient group is still in the book but they've switched sides and taken a back seat.

Me: I loved the entire concept of the book. The voice, I think, was my favorite part. But I also really enjoyed the journey of the characters. You are now officially one of my favorite authors! So any authors you love?

Amy: Growing up, I read lots of classics. I have six older brothers and sisters so I got all their hand-me-down books: Twain, Poe, Alcott, Austen, Faulkner. It wasn't until I was an adult that I found fantasy and fell in love with Susan Cooper, Madeline L'Engle, CS Lewis, Lloyd Alexander, Tolkien. And this generation's fantasy authors totally rock: Angie Sage, Jenny Nimmo, Kathryn Lasky, Riordan, Hale, Rowling...and I know I'm forgetting twenty or thirty that are my "all-time-favorites". Oooo--Marion Zimmer Bradley. What wouldn't I give to be able to immerse myself in Mists of Avalon again for the first time.

Me: Agreed. I have to add Poe, Stephen King, Clive Barker, Carrie Ryan and Madaline L'Engle to that list. So, how long did it take you to write THE IRON BODKIN? Anything special you want to share about your journey?

Amy: I wrote The Iron Bodkin in six months. I revised it and got some feedback, but I had no idea what I was doing at that point. Six months later, I wrote the second book and decided I should start submitting Bodkin. In lightning speed, I received ten form rejections from publishers. I decided I needed an agent instead. I submitted to two agents and one of them, Kendra Marcus, signed me.

Three years later, I'd racked up another handful of rejections -- some with frustrating comments ("Too close to Harry Potter"), some with great suggestions and some very painful ("We love it! Unfortunately, we just signed something exactly like this.")

As a last ditch effort, I entered it in a debut author contest with a small press, planning to drawer it if I didn't win. But I did win, and the grand prize was a publishing contract. However...as we neared my estimated release date, the publisher stopped emailing me (and the other new authors as well). It looked like my book was headed for the drawer.

Me: That's some journey! Phew. I need to sit for a rest. One of the things that I noticed is that you're self published. What made you come to that decision?

Amy: At my lawyer's direction, I can't give any specifics, so I'll just say that my publisher was unable to perform per our contract. However, since my scheduled release date was only two months away and I'd been marketing like a dervish for eighteen months, everyone in the world was asking when my book was coming out. It was emotionally easier for me to self-publish than to explain (repeatedly) a difficult situation I wasn't legally allowed to discuss.

Me: Wow. Sounds like publishing isn't always cut and dry. Oviously, since I read the book, I know there will be a sequel. But did you plan from the start to do a series?

Amy: It was always planned to be a trilogy. When I self-published, I wasn't sure if I would go ahead with the next books. But I've gotten some good reviews, with a couple more coming out in the next month or two, so I've decided to go ahead with book two. It's in revisions now and will hopefully be released in the Spring of 2011. It's called The Seven Wood Box...so far.

Me: Any final words of adivce?

Amy: Yes. I'd like to say something about working with small and indie publishers. Small presses are great for pre-published writers. They get fewer submissions than the big houses so your manuscript has less competition. And they're willing to accept un-agented subs. The vast majority of them are wonderful companies. But be careful. There are some 'publishers' out there who aren't what they claim to be. There are some who just aren't very solvent and some who cheat writers out of money.

Before you submit to a small press or enter a contest with one, check Preditors & Editors or Writer Beware to see if they have any negative feedback. You can also check Children's Writers & Illustrators Market or Book Market for Children's Writers. There are new editions of these each year and they cost about $20-30. Finally, SCBWI has a list of small presses on their Small Press Market Survey. These three resources vet their list carefully, so if your publisher is included in any of them, that's a very good sign.

As a final note, never, never, NEVER give a publisher (or an agent) any money up-front. Reputable companies will never ask you to do this.

Thanks Amy! It was great having you! Be sure to visit Amy at her Blog and Website.

Amy has generously agreed to give away a copy of THE IRON BODKIN to one lucky winner! Just leave a comment and you'll be entered to win (of course tweets and blog posts will win extra entries, just leave the link). Contest ends Friday, October 8th, 2010. The winner will be randomly selected and announced on Monday, October 11th, 2010.

"True Miracles With Geneology"

2010-10-04T07:00:00.009-04:00

One of my favorite things (when I have time for it) is family history. I love learning all sorts of cool stuff about my ancestors and the legacy they've left for us. My parents have been so diligent in keeping pictures, journals and family trees that I have more information then most.

A tradition that my husband and I started is that each of our girls inherited their middle name from an ancestor. My eldest daughter - from my grandmother. My middle daughter - from a woman in my husband's family tree who was born in the 1700's. My youngest daughter - from my great, great grandmother who lived in Prussia and was a playmate to a Polish Princess. Pretty cool, huh?

I've also learned that my great grandfather was an architect in NYC who designed many of the buildings there. When he had a stroke, his caregiver deceitfully had him sign his estate over to her. Since the court systems aren't what they are today - she received everything while the posterity went broke.

We can learn so much about our past and our future from these family members. It has been an amazing experience in my life to do work and discover these histories.

You're probably wondering what this has to do with writing. Am I right? Well, hold on, I'm about to tell you.
My friend, Anne Bradshaw, has compiled a collection of stories about geneology work entitled TRUE MIRACLES WITH GENEOLOGY. One of my experiences is featured in that book. Cool beans.

If you aren't familiar with Anne's previous publications, check out her website here. She's a talented writer and is inspiration to me. TRUE MIRACLES is currently available at Amazon.

Anne has graciously agreed to giveaway a copy of her book to one lucky winner! All you have to do to enter is leave a comment. One winner will be randomly selected from all the entries. Contest ends Wednesday, October 6th, 2010. WInner will be announced Friday, October 8th, 2010.

Oh and please come back on Wednesday....I'm doing an interview and another GIVEAWAY! You won't want to miss it!!

Blogs You Must See

2010-10-01T08:34:00.005-04:00

During the week I found some pretty cool blogs and read some great posts. Although I thought about hording them all to myself (mine, mine, mine) I decided the nice thing would be to share them with you!

Juanita did a great post about the differences between YA and MG. So many writers struggle with this and Juanita clearly defined it. You must read it!

Rose Cooper started a new blog featuring the main character from her book Gossip From The Girls Room (to be released January 2011 from Random House). It's way cute! She even held a contest to feature one lucky reader in her next book! But that contest is over now. You missed it. Sorry. (It was all part of my evil plan so that I can win. Mwuhahahaha)

My group blog, From The Mixed-Up Files, welcomed 4 new members. Plus we have amazing posts all the time. If you're not reading it on a regular basis I will have no choice but to beat you with a wet noodle.

Oh and you must read this stupid AOL Article about people who don't wash their blue jeans for 6 months. That's just sick. Can you believe someone would actually spend their time writing an article about something so asinine, I mean - WOW - that's top news folks!

AND, REMEMBER.....

It is Free Critique Friday!

So if you have a query letter - OR - a first page you'd like me to crit, be sure to leave a one line pitch (or the query) in the comments. I'll choose one to critique and post the before and after right here on my blog!

Have a great weekend everyone!

The 7 Different Kinds of Crit Partners

2010-09-29T07:00:00.008-04:00

Remember my post on Mixed-Up Files a while back? Of the biggest writing mistakes, I primarily focused on taking a crit and applying it successfully.

As I've had lots of different critiques on my manuscript,I've come to learn one thing: There are as many varied critters as there are writers.

But what if you have a crit partner that isn't good? They seem to be stuck on one type of crit and one type of crit only.

In good fun, I've highlighted my favorites. (Warning: if you have absolutely no sense of humor, please do not read any further)

THE GRAMMAR QUEEN: this person is insistent on following every single grammar rule even if it means you loose your writing voice. run on sentences and fragments will cause convulsions of the writing kind.

THE KISS UP: this person (usually a friend or family member) finds absolutely not one single flaw in your writing and believes any revision is a complete waste of your time just further delaying the inevitable publication of your masterpiece.

THE REWRITER: this crit partner rewrites every. single. sentence. even when nothing was wrong with the original sentence. ex - In the morning Mary puts on her blue dress and black shoes. their suggestion: Mary puts on her blue dress and black shoes, in the morning.

THE ECHO MASTER: kind of like a jedi master, with the magical, cosmic help of "the echo" they point out every instance that there is a repeat word. even when the repeat was purposeful. even when the repeat was purposeful.

THE STYLE SNOB: they only like one style of writing - their own. yours sucks. unless of course, you change your style of writing to be more like theirs. then it is wonderful.

THE OPINIONATOR: they are the only ones with an opinion that counts. they will give you advice even when you don't want it. they insist that their suggestions are the only ones that matter and you can forget about all the other crit partners, because really, they have no idea of what they're talking about.

THE KNOW-IT-ALL: this crit partner has been there, done that and did i mention they did it better than you, the first time they tried? they wonder what on earth you find so difficult about writing and wish that you'd just do a little research before bothering them with your amatuerish manuscript again.

Now it's time to laugh at yourself - which crit partner are you?

Confession - I know I've been guilty of each of these at some point...

Why Writing is Like a Piece of Cake - Literally

2010-09-27T07:00:00.014-04:00

This past week I didn't write at all. There was a pretty good reason for it though. I was busy making a cake for a baby shower that I co-hosted with my BFF.

Yes, it took nearly all week to make the cake. I started Tuesday night and just minutes before the shower on Friday evening I completed the final assembly.

As far as cake decorating is concerned I took one class with my mom as a teenager. But I've never taken any classes in fondant - I'm entirely self-taught.

So you probably think the cake is pretty amazing, right?

Well, the guests did too.

But you know what?

All I saw were the imperfections. Everything I could have done differently. The things I could have changed to improve it.

As I pondered this, it made me think of the writing process. Why can't we writers just be proud of our hard work and effort? Why must we always look at the errors?

We're so focused on fixing what is wrong that we loose sight of what's right.

Maybe, just maybe, if we focused on the positive - the things that make our writing fantastic - we might not be so derailed by the negative and we'd be encouraged to keep pressing forward.

Perhaps we think we're being narcissistic if we admit our writing is good.

It's silly though because it really is ok to admit we've excelled at something. I even think it's healthy.

One of my writing strengths is dialog. The exchanges come off as natural - completely unforced. While I occasionally might have a few extra tags or beats, that's ok because the bones are there. And those tags can easily be removed.

Even though I might not be perfect at dialog, the strength I have in it reminds me of my talent when the rest of the manuscript sucks.

Just like my cake wasn't perfect, it's ok to admit that it was an amazing effort (especially since it was only my second attempt with fondant). You know what else? The cake tasted wonderful too. All moist and yummy with chocolate creme filling. Knowing that my cake not only looked beautiful but tasted delicious too, gives me the courage to try again. Maybe next time it will be even better. Because I've learned from my weaknesses as well as my strengths.

In the end, whether it's a slice of cake or a wedge of words, we should always search for the sweet part because that's what will move us forward. Not the bad stuff.

What are your writing strengths? I know you've got them! And it's ok to admit them. I won't think you're vain. In fact, I'll even applaud each and every admission!

Query Critique Friday - Jane Still

2010-09-24T09:35:00.004-04:00

Last week I promised free query critique fridays....well, here it is!

Each week I'll post one query in its original form and below it, the revision.

Jane Still was brave enough to be my very first volunteer. In her defense, she wrote her query very quickly so she could be part of my original contest.

The Original

Taking six children to see Santa every year and watching them go from screaming in horror one year to complete adulation the next prompted me to write Santa Claws where humorous childish fears are conquered.

The young child in this story lives in a world where Christmas is bright colored lights and choo-choo trains that chase round each Christmas tree. He walks down the street in wonder as sweet white and bright red candy canes are stuck to every smile.

As he enters a department store, a mean old man ho-ho-hoes right up to him and scares the tears right from his eyes.

Later that night as his Dad explains the wonder of Santa Claus he has his own questions. What kind of claws does Santa have, and is it true, does he keep one big giant list that he sticks children to?

Santa Claws is 738 words of fun and excitement for the entire family and is the third book I am submitting for publication.

My first book, Mother’s Daze, was introduced to the national market in March 2010 by the first publisher I sent it to. It sold 10,000 copies in the first 3 months. Mother's Daze 911 will be out March 2011.

The Revision

Dear Agent,

I have written a humorous Christmas picture book. SANTA CLAWS is 700 words of fun and excitement and could best be compared to ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas.’

Most children wonder how Santa can travel around the world in one night or how he can fit all those toys in one sack. My little boy wants to know how Santa sticks children to his Giant list—and the one that worries him the most—just how big are Santa’s Claws?

I have been writing for several years and my articles and stories have appeared regularly in two local newspapers. My first book, MOTHER’S DAZE, was published by Cedar Fort in Utah. It sold 10,000 copies in the first three months. Cedar Fort has already scheduled the sale of MOTHER’S DAZE 911 for March 2011.

Sincerely,
Author

So, what do you think? Is the revision stronger? What do think the biggest improvement is?

* If you'd like to have your query critiqued, post it below and I might just choose yours! *

Gerunds and Passive Voice - Two Rules You Must Break

2010-09-22T07:00:00.007-04:00

Recently I had some crits done on my manuscript and was told not to use any gerunds.

(In case you don't know what a gerund is...it's those pesky little "ing" words. However not all "ing" words are gerunds. A simple test is this: let's say we're using the word swimming - if you can replace it with to swim, you know you've got a gerund.)

And - gulp - yes, I was guilty of doing it....a lot! I'm SOOOOO glad it was pointed out to me!

So why should we avoid these "ing" words? Well, because they make our writing passive. {I like swimming = passive. I like to swim = active.} :)

It really is good advice.

Avoid those gerunds when you can.

So, I've run passivity checks on my manuscripts before and even though I have those gerunds, my passivity score is at 1%. I kid you not. ONE PERCENT.

I think that's pretty good. Actually, I'd wager to day it's darned good. Because the rule of thumb is aim to be less than 5%.

Although I might have those "ing" words, that's not the only thing that makes our manuscript passive.

Nope.

The other big thing that invites passivity is where the subject is placed in a sentence.

So for example:

The cat walked in the rain.
(This is an active sentence with proper emphasis on the subject - the cat.)

A passive sentence would read like this:

In the rain, the cat walked.
(While the cat is doing the action he's not where you'd expect the grammatical subject to be. Instead, the rain is the grammatical subject.)

So, if you know me by now, you know that I'm all about breaking the rules!

Out of curiosity I decided to look for some "ing" words in one of my favorite published books.

Ex #1

"Sitting at Prim's knees, guarding her, is the world's ugliest cat."

Yep - that's the very first sentence of the third paragraph in THE HUNGER GAMES by the fabulous Suzanne Collins.

And sorry to say, but that sentence reeks of passivity and gerunds. Want to make it active? Easy. The world's ugliest cat sits at Prim's knees and guards her.

But, somehow, it just doesn't have the same flavor to me...

I figured this had to be a fluke. Susanne Collins is like a freaking gazillionaire genuis. So I opened the book to a random page to prove it was indeed just a fluke. An editorial oversight.

Guess what?

Yep - there were more "ing" words!

EX #2

"Just stepping on the stage makes my breathing rapid and shallow."

(Page 124, first paragraph - THE HUNGER GAMES)

EX #3

"Dangling up in the tree, with the sun warming me, a mouthful of mint, my bow and arrows at hand..."

(Page 230, first sentence, last paragraph - THE HUNGER GAMES)

So what's my point in all this?

Well, my dear ladies and gentlemen, my point is that rules are made to be broken!!

Should we start every paragraph, every sentence with an "ING" word? Should we always use passive voice? Should gerunds litter our manuscripts?

Definately not!!

But do we have to eliminate them entirely?

No way!

So, keep breaking those rules folks! (Just not ALL the time....)

:)

If Facebook Existed...

2010-09-20T08:49:00.008-04:00

Recently I received an email entitled, "If Facebook Existed..."

I'm not sure where it originated from otherwise I'd credit the author....

Abe Lincoln wrote (145 years ago): Going to the theatre with the mrs. tonigh. got private box seats, baby!
John Wilkes Booth likes this.

Ben Franklin (234 years ago): Just signed up for the Declaration of Independence! Booyah England!
France likes this.
Comments:
England - you done ephed up now.
John Adams - Bring it.
Ben Franklin - You redcoats don't stand a chance.
Thomas Jefferson - redcoats? more like DICKcoats. am i right?
John Hancock - does this mean we get to sign more sh*t, cuz that was fun!
Ben Franklin - so we gathered.

Galileo (400 years ago): So turns out the earth.... goes around the sun. Who knew?
Copernicus likes this.
Comments:
The Church - hahaha what you smokin bro?
Galileo - nothing. it's an observable fact.
The church - riiiiighht. cut it out bro, you're makin crazy talk.
Galileo - no i'm not, "bro." want to see my proof?
The Church - YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH. YOU SHUT IT RIGHT NOW.

Isaac Newton (344 years ago): Stupid apple fell out of a tree and hit me on the head.
Comments:
Isaac Newton (10 minutes ago): Whoooaaa, wait a second...

Julius Ceasar (2053 years ago): The boys pulled together a little party at the casa tonight. Gonna be a killer party.
Comments:
Brutus - Oh it'll be killer alright.
Julius Ceasar - ha ha. don't be creepy dude.

God (5000 years ago): Hello? Anyone?

Announcing Free Query Critique Friday

2010-09-17T08:19:00.005-04:00

As many of you know, last month I held a pretty fab contest (at least I like to think so). The contest included some awesome prizes. For me though, the coolest prize was what I learned about YOU!

I've realized that there is a really big need for critiques. Whether its because many of you don't have your own crit groups, or because you're just looking for someone else's opinion, the demand was high all around.

That got me thinking....

The one thing I needed most (and still do) is help and critiques! I really wish I'd had that help early on because I think it would have made all the difference.

Plus one of my favorite things to do is help others. I know, it sounds like a silly hobby, but for me, it's really rewarding.

So this is what I've decided....

Starting September 24th, every Friday will be Free Query Critique Friday!

Yep - you heard me. I"m crazy.

How to enter:

Each Friday (excluding today) all you will have to do is post your query letter in the comments. That's it!

I will choose one of those letters to critique, the author will apply the feedback and both the before and after will be posted on my blog the following Friday.

Simple, right?

And don't worry - if your query isn't chosen, keep entering! There's no limit to how many times you can enter!

There's also another surprise! (It keeps getting better, doesn't it?)

From those query letters, one will be chosen to have a first chapter critique! Yep! A WHOLE chapter!

So spread the word! Tell your friends, tell your neighbors, shout it to the sky...however you need to share it, just do it!

Just so you know - ya'll are total awesomesauce.

Have a fabulous weekend everyone!

Not Here....Again

2010-09-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

I'm at The Mixed-Up Files blogging about learning disabilities and middle-grade books. I hope you'll check it out. It will definately be well worth your time.

I'd also like to apologize for my lack of attention to your blogs this week. I feel so out of the loop. Really - I wasn't kidding the other day when I said its been one of those months. But I hope to get back into the groove of things real soon. Cause I can't wait to hear what's been going on with you!

One of Those Months...

2010-09-13T07:00:00.004-04:00

I'm kinda having one of those months where every day is going by in a blur and I can't find a single moment to accomplish any of my goals.

Like today for instance - I'm so busy, so entirely overwhelmed and wrapped-up in day-to-day living that this post published without a title. Oy.

Then there's my to do list. Todays list includes cleaning 3 of my 5 bathrooms, doing laundry, changing bed linens, cleaning out closets, straightening up bedrooms, critting 2 query letters, shipping off 2 packages,squeezing in a 3 mile walk/run, making dinner, helping kids with projects/homework, finishing my blog post for The Mixed-Up Files, and if I'm lucky....EDITING. (that's just the stuff I can remember)

Yes, the blog post and editing should be at the top of my list....but somehow life always pushes the things I really want to do to the bottom of the pile.

Is that maybe like an agent's slush pile? They have the stuff they have to get done every day - including working with their existing clients. Then, maybe, when they get some time, they look through that slush pile.

It's also easy to imagine why it might be a bottom-list priority. Let's face it. They get loads of crap.

Kind of like my current manuscript.

Which is probably why I'm avoiding editing it.

It's too much work!

But, thanks to my fabulous crit partners (yes, you know who you are....and yes, that's your offical title...remember: no good deed goes unpunished!) I think my manuscript can be so freaking awesome.

So...if you'll excuse me now...I think I'll get back to WORK!

editoral note: i finished those crits late last night. and stayed up till 2 am working (but not finishing) the mixed-up files post. so although my to-do list is being checked off - i'm so tired today i might not get to the rest of it. sigh.

Guest Post

2010-09-10T05:00:00.002-04:00

I'm not here today. Nope. You don't see me. And you're not really reading these words. *Waves hand slowly using The Force* These are not the droids you are looking for.

I'm at C.K. BRYANT'S Blog. So, please, please visit me there. I promise it will be well worth your time.

*whispers* There might just be a contest, but you never heard that from me. Nope. Not from me. ;)

Trying to Get an Agent is Like...

2010-09-08T07:46:00.006-04:00

* Searching for a needle in a haystack.

* A dog chasing its own tail, going round and round in circles.

* Waiting to be picked for a team in gym class - and then being called last.

* Going to the mailbox and realizing there are only bills.

* Pouring a bowl of cereal and realizing someone drank the last of the milk.

* Putting bread in a toaster, walking away and when you come back the bread is burnt.

* Going to a party in jeans and everyone else is dressed-up.

* That dream where you go to school in your underwear, forgot to study for a test, are trying to run away from something or are flying.

* Digging for dinosaur bones.

* Starting your favorite project and halfway through you run out of the most important item - like tape or glue.

* Trying to grow crops in a drought.

* Baking cookies and not having any chocolate chips.

* Your first kiss - messy. (c'mon you know it was)

* Printing off your manuscript and running out of ink.

* "A box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get." (ok, that's not mine, that's Forest Gump)

And last but not least.....

Trying to get an agent is like:

* Trying to find a date for prom. Someone just friggin ask me already, would ya?!

What's your experience been like?

Have You Held a Hummingbird?

2010-09-03T05:00:00.012-04:00

Last week, after school, my 7th grade daughter came running through the door. Completely out of breath, she said, "Mom, there's a hummingbird trapped in our garage!"

I thought her concern was precious, and as a parent, I was grateful I had raised her with compassion - that she could see the bird's need and wanted to help.

So, I went into the garage and sure enough, there was that poor little bird trying to escape through one of the windows. Because I knew I'd never be able to reach him on my own, I looked around for something to help me pursuade the little bird down and out the garage door. I grabbed a badmitten racket and very slowly and carefully brought the bird to a safe corner of the window. The poor thing was terrified. His little body trembled, but his wings were as still as could be. Have you ever seen a hummingbird not buzzing his wings? Me either. At least, not until that moment.

Once I had him positioned, I gently scooped him into my hand being careful not to hurt him. In that second, my thoughts immediately went to, "I'm holding a hummingbird!" How many people can say they've done that? The most amazing thing of all, however, was the noise he let out. The best description I could come up with for it was a cry. I had no idea that hummingbirds could even make a sound. My heart sank as I thought about how desperate he must have felt in those moments. So I quickly approached the garage door,opened my hand and off he flew, out into the beautiful world.

In your writing journey, do you ever feel like that hummingbird? Are you desperately looking for a way out of a closed window? Maybe you can even see your goal on the other side, but you can't get to it because there's a barrier holding you back.

Then the unbelievable happens. You get a request! Now you're filled with so much excitement that you literally tremble.

But then...the dreaded rejection arrives. The feeling of being so high has plumeted to the ultimate low of lows. And you're filled with self-dout.

You're trapped.

Maybe you feel vulnerable. Or scared. Or even a bit like crying.

You fight against the negative thoughts and struggle to make sense of it all.

But then you realize that you have support. It might be family and friends or critique partners or even an online community of writers. Those relationships give you just enough comfort that you can rebuild your confidence and move on in your journey.

So, during your ups and downs of the writing process, remember that we're all here for you. When you quiver with joy, we'll celebrate with you. When you shudder with disappointment we'll wrap you in words of encouragement.

When you're ready, we'll open our hands and let you soar. Because if you look behind you, there may very well be an open door just waiting for you to fly through it.

Winners Announced!

2010-09-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

Many thanks to each of you for your excitement about my contest! I was aware of every tweet, blog post and kind words. So thank you for helping me make this contest a success!

Now for our winners...

I - very scientifically - wrote each name on a slip of paper (if you had multiple entries, you had multiple slips of paper) and let my 6 year old draw the names from a Tupperware container (actually it wasn't even tupperware - it was just a plastic container). The names drawn that were drawn are....

#1 Katharine Owens
#2 Casey Griffin
#3 Erinn
#4 Tania McCue
#5 Christina Ferko
#6 Jaydee Morgan

If you haven't stopped by these ladies' blogs, you're missing out! So make sure you visit them today and send them a congratulations!

Now for prizes...

Since I figure not everyone will need everything that's being given away, I've decided that the winners will get to choose their prize instead of being given the coordinating prize! I mean, if you're agented what good would a query critique do you? Right? Or if you're allergic to chocolate - or dieting - those Oreos (or Triple Chocolate Fudge cookies) would just be torture. So, instead, winner #1 will get first choice on their prize, winner #2 second choice and so on.

Please email me with your preferences (numbered 1-6) at Amiegr8tstuff (at) aol (dot) com. And I'll see to it that your prizes are mailed to you ASAP!

Thanks again!

The Hidden Meaning of Words

2010-08-30T05:00:00.004-04:00

There is a commerical for a new television show. At the end it displays the word BELIEVE and all the letters fade out except for the word LIE.

That commerical got me thinking about THE MUSIC MAN, one of my favorite musicals. In it, is a song sung by a quartet, that says, "How can there be any SIN in sincere?", "Where is the GOOD in goodbye?", "How can there be any FAIR in farewell?" To that I'll also add, why is there HELL in hello? It makes me wonder about these words and their "hidden" meanings. Should we really read into the fact that these smaller words are opposite of what the actual word intends?

I wonder, too, why dieting always makes me feel like I'm going to DIE. And why there are always MEN involved in being menstrual and menopausal. Really, they should just make themselves useful by getting us chocolate and then staying far away (except maybe to do the dishes or something).

Have any of you ever noticed these hidden words? Does it make you pause? It definately does for me.

All of this made me think of our job as writers. Are we really saying what we want to say? Is our true intent coming across? Or are our readers seeing a hidden message?

Sometimes hidden meanings are good - our audience should "read between the lines" so to speak. But there are times that what we we've expressed is exactly as it is.

As an example, my middle-grade book, CINDERSKELLA starts like this:

"It all started when my mother died. I would say it sucked (because for most people it would, especially if they’re only 11 ¾ like me), but if I did, my dad would give me a look. You know the one. It says, 'If parents could still wash their children’s mouths out with soap, I’d scrub your tongue with a bar of Dial.' So, instead, I’ll just say it was awful."

When my MC says it sucked - there's absolutely no hidden meaning in that. I mean, it does suck when someone you love dies. There really isn't another word for it (at least not to a pre-teen). But when she goes on to describe what her father's reaction would be to her choice of words, there's a lot that could be read between the lines: He's strict, Cindy and her dad don't have a very good relationship, maybe you even think he's abusive (he's not). The next sentence has some hidden meaning, too: despite her relationship with her father, Cindy respects him. Either that or she doesn't like the taste of soap. Whatever the reason that you've chosen it has all given another meaning to the words. Perhaps it even gets you thinking about future events in the story.

All of these words, especially the ones with hidden meanings, propel our story. They hint at characterizations, plot, action and motivation. Isn't that what we want as writers? Some of the best writing I've seen doesn't tell the reader that their character is smart, sassy, witty or conflicted. It shows it between the lines.

So are you being careful? Are you skillfully selecting your words and sentences with hidden meaning?

Query Process

2010-08-27T07:38:00.002-04:00

We all know that during the query/submission process we're supposed to write. It helps us be productive, gives us motivation and best of all, we'll have completed another project during those long, drawn-out months of waiting.

But I can't write when I'm waiting. I can't. Maybe my personality is too anxious - but I seem to be able to focus ONLY on one thing. It's almost as if I'm afraid to move on. Like if I do, I'll be forgetting those other characters, forgetting their story. But we all know, that's not really true. All we need do is read the manuscript again and we're right there with them!

Thankfully, I do eventually end up writing again. Like this week. I worked on LITTLE DEAD RIDING HOOD. It felt so good to add to her story! She was thanking me - but she was nice enough not to ask where I'd been.

And soon, her story will be complete and then I'll have another story to query/submit. Which will start the waiting process all over again....

Oh joy.

So what do you do while you wait? Do you freak out for a while then write? Or do you buckle down, roll up your sleeves and get to work right away?

AHHHHHH!! (add inflection variations as necessary)

2010-08-25T05:00:00.001-04:00

That's how I've felt this week. Here's why:

*My girls went back to school
*Blessed "me" time has found its way back into my life
*Early mornings + Night owl = not a happy camper
*Word counts are increasing
*Manuscript critiquing for friends
*Reading MOCKING JAY
*My kids found my chocolate stash!

What have you been up to? Anything make you go, "AHHHH" lately?

OH - and BTW - for many days now blogger has said I'm not following any blogs. That's just crazy talk! So if you're wondering why I'm not commenting, it's because I"m not getting my update feed! AHHHH!!

Interview and Giveaway

2010-08-20T05:30:00.011-04:00

This is it! My much anticipated 50 followers contest! As promised, since I've exceeded 75 followers, I've sweetened the deal. It's also MY BIRTHDAY TODAY and one of my favorite things is to give! So I'm totally stoked I get to share this day – and all its prizes and awesomeness - with you!

My dear friend and neighbor, Shelena Shorts, has joined us for an interview! I’m so excited to have her with us. She's the author of two YA fantasy/sci-fi books, THE PACE and its sequel (which was just released yesterday - yay for book birthdays!) THE BROKEN LAKE. Thanks for walking all the way across the cul-de-sac for this, Shelena!

Me: What made you decide to write YA? I mean, why not MG or even adult novels?

Shelena: I’ve taught 11th grade English for a long time and I’m always reading what they’re reading and ALWAYS thinking of ways I can entertain them, either through a non-boring lesson or a book. So it was natural. I wouldn’t ever have thought to write a book they couldn’t or wouldn’t read.

Me: So being a high school English teacher must really influence your writing then.

Shelena: Yes! Definitely. I try to think how teens like to think. I know they want to be challenged but not too much and they hate to be under challenged. That’s insulting and almost as bad as pushing them too hard. I keep all of that in mind when figuring out how the plot will unfold.

Me: Who would you say are your biggest influences, your favorite authors?

Shelena: Nicholas Sparks and Stephenie Meyer. I love Nicholas Sparks for his ability to write amazing love stories, and Stephenie Meyer for the way she creates characters people care about beyond the pages of the book.

Me: I know you did something a little different than most authors - you decided to take a risk and go with a small publisher instead. Why?

Shelena: Anyone who has written a book knows how hard it is to grab the attention of a large publishing house, including me! So I had a choice of 1. keep waiting for it to possibly never to arrive or 2. Choose my own path which would at least give people a chance to read it if they wanted to. So, for me, it was about giving it a chance.

Me: When we were both writing our manuscripts we talked about sequels. What made you decide to write one?

Shelena: Well I knew I was planning to eventually write a sequel because I had long term hopes for Sophie and Wes, but I had no plans of writing it so soon. I didn’t even know if people would like my idea of Wes or not, so I initially planned to wait and see what people thought. I started really writing The Broken Lake in September 2009, once I found out people wanted to read more. It definitely made me put my butt in gear, and it’s been non-stop ever since!

Me: It’s true. I've been stalking, I mean, reading the reviews on Goodreads and she's got a real following. Congratulations on your success and thanks so much for chatting with us today!

Shelena: Thanks Amie, I appreciate you having me!

Now for the giveaway part…..!!

Prize #1: Shelena has graciously agreed to give away signed copies of THE PACE and THE BROKEN LAKE (both books to one lucky winner) *squee* She’s also included some swag (2 Pace/Broken Lake bookmarks and 3 Pace pencils) *double squee*

Prize #2: A QUERY CRITIQUE by the fabulous Rose Cooper. Believe me, you WANT this! Rose is amazing at query critiques.

Prize #3: A signed copy of ANGEL STAR by Jennifer Murgia. Jennifer has attended lots of events and is receiving great reviews. Congrats Jennifer and thanks for including your book in my giveaway!

Prize #4: A FIRST CHAPTER CRITIQUE by yours truly! I’ve critted for Rose, and she’ll vouch for me that I’m pretty dang good at it. *crickets chirp* Um, right, Rose? :)

Prize #5: A hardcover copy of PROPHECY OF THE SISTERS (a gothic YA fantasy) by Michelle Zink.

And finally, Prize #6: Okay – so originally I was going to give away 2 pounds of my homemade triple chocolate fudge cookies (gourmet cookies that weigh ¼ pound each – they also happen to be Shelena’s favorite cookies) but I thought maybe you guys would think it was a tad weird to eat something homemade from someone you don’t know….so instead I’m going to include a bag of OREO’s (your choice of Mint, Regular or Double Stuff). Unless, of course, you'd prefer the homemade cookies, then I'd be happy to oblige. However, there is a disclosure: "Amie Borst is hereby released from all guilt because of any weight gain that you should incur from the consumption of said baked goods."

How to enter:
Just leave a comment! That’s it!

Want extra entries?
Tweet it.
Put it on your sidebar or blog about it.
Share it on Facebook.
Get a friend to follow and leave a comment with who sent them (that’s an extra entry for both of you...yeah, new followers will automatically get 2 entries; one for joining and one for commenting)!

In order for extra entries to count, you have to tell me/leave a link in the comments. With the exception of bringing new followers to my blog, I will only count one extra entry per category per day.

Contest ends at midnight on Tuesday, August 31st, 2010. Winners will be drawn randomly and announced on Wednesday, September 1st, 2010.

Pay It Forward

2010-08-18T05:00:00.005-04:00

I've been having a pretty crappy week (thankfully, this time it has nothing to do with the writing process) but unfortunately, it's nothing that I can really discuss here. However, there was some light in my day yesterday and that is what I'd like to share with you.

I was taking my three lovely daughters (ages 12, 10 and 6) to my neighborhood pool when I was stopped by a woman I've never spoken to but have seen there often over the last three years. She took my hand and said, "I know we don't know each other, but I just wanted you to know that you have beautiful children. I've never seen kinder, sweeter girls than yours. Any parent would be proud to have children like that."

Thank goodness I had sunglasses on or else I would have looked like a complete idiot when my eyes welled-up with tears. I thanked her for her kind remarks and how they were perfect timing for my miserable day.

I don't know why she decided to tell me that at that exact moment in time. Maybe it was good karma - cause heaven knows I've got to have some of that coming to me. Whatever the reason, someone was smiling on me and for the rest of the afternoon all I heard were those kind words and amazingly all my burdens - the things weighing me down and making me so miserable - were light.

I've always known it, but this experience confirmed to me how very important it is to, not only show kindness to others, but more importantly, to act upon those moments of inspiration.

So, I'd like to give you all a challenge today and possibly for the rest of the week.

I want you to pay it forward.

I'm not talking about the "help the old lady cross the street" kind of thing (though that's really nice and something we should be doing anyway), what I'd like is for you to seek out a blog of a new author/blogger, leave them a nice comment and follow their blog. You have no idea how much it meant to me to gain followers - I'm a seriously shy person (it's true! honest!) - and it might mean the world to someone else struggling out in the blogging world. But more importantly, do it because you want THEM to feel good about what they're doing, not because it brings you something in exchange (though, I'm sure that the law of reciprocation will eventually apply....and possibly some good karma too).

It's truly such a simple thing. And you might make someone's day.

I hope you'll report back and share your experience. I know I will! :)

You've Won An Award!

2010-08-16T05:00:00.006-04:00

Yes. You. I'm looking at you. Yes, you with the coffee/tea/cereal/chocolate in your hands. Yes you reading this blog right now. I'm talking to you. You've won an award. Um, yeah, let's try that again. YOU'VE WON AN AWARD!!

"What?" you say. "Is she crazy? There's 77 of us."

Yep. I know. And yeah, I know I'm breaking the rules. So what if I'm really only supposed to give the award to five of my closest friends? I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'm a trendsetter and I like breaking the rules.

Besides, when I tried to think of five recipients, my brain went into adult ADHD mode.

Here's a sample of my neurotic thinking:

Karen Krueger - she's the one that gave me the award (thanks Karen! *waves), and I'd like to give it back to her. But that would be cheesy like one of those chain emails that says, "forward this to 10 friends and send it back to me." So, I better not do that.

Katie Borst - she's my sister-in-law and she's been so enthusiatstic about my writing. Friends and family are our supporters, right? So she deserves this award...oh but wait...she doesn't have a blog. Hmmm, that's a problem.

Rose Cooper - she's so awesome. I've only known her a short time, but she's become my instant friend. Mi Amigo. Mein freund. Srsly, I swear we're like writer soul mates. But I just gave her an award and I might start to look like a stalker...

Terry Tiffany - she's like the first one to comment on a post. How cool is that? She definately deserves an award for that.

Then, after a while, all I could see were each of your faces, names and blogs and realized that you've all offered me so much that I couldn't possibly narrow my choice down to only five of you.

That's when I decided ALL of you deserve the award! Because you've all given me something different and unique that only YOU can give. And I value each of you for it. YOUR strength, YOUR hope and YOUR encouragement.

Afterall, that's what friendship is all about, right?

So, this award is for you! To thank you for your kind words, for being there, for supporting me. I hope that I can return that support to you, too. And above all else, I hope you know that I care!

So, I'm sending my sincerest thanks with this award. I hope you'll share it with your closest friends. But don't worry about sending it back to me ;)

Drum Roll Please...

2010-08-14T05:00:00.004-04:00

Will the fabulous CHERSTI NIEVEEN please step forward? You've just won a QUERY CRITIQUE, a bag of smooth and creamy DOVE PROMISES (you can even choose milk or dark chocolate), and a brand new copy of MOCKING JAY by Suzanne Collins!!

Chersti had an astounding 23 points! And I know (because I follow her on twitter) that she tweeted the contest like a gazillion times. Thanks Chersti! I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Send me an email at amiegr8tstuff -@- aol - (dot) com so I can get your address information!

And for the rest of you, thank you all for entering, sending your friends, tweeting, blogging and sharing the joy of this contest!

If you're bummed that you didn't win....NEVER FAIL! I have the most EPIC contest ever planned for August 20th. There will be a guest author, 3 books, a query critique, and a first chapter critique! I also promised that if I reached 75 followers before the next contest that I'd up the anty. SoOoOoo...if you've noticed, I've got 75 awesome peeps! So keep visiting this week. There's something sweet on Monday and something epic on Friday! So, you'll just have to see what I've got planned. This is one you won't want to miss!

No Rain

2010-08-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

I'm probably dating myself here, but one of my favorite songs of all time is No Rain by Blind Melon. In fact, I listened to it (and watched the you tube video) so often while writing my first book, I think I pretty much drove my family insane. How many of you did that to your family and friends while writing a manuscript?

I think the song, in essence, defines me. I've always been a bit of a loner, despite my friendships. And I've always walked to the beat of my own drummer. Following the crowd went against something deep in the core of me, even if it was unpopular. I was, and still am, totally cool with being different.

In the words of the late, great Shannon Hoon:
All I can do is read a book to stay awake and it rips my life away but it's a great escape....

So often I journied to other worlds while growing up. And I didn't rely on anything except the written word and my own imagination to get me there. Books (and music) have always been my escape.

Obviously, since many of writers, books are an escape for you too. So, what is it you like most about reading great books and creating them?

PS- Contest ENDS TODAY! Winner will be announced tomorrow!

50 Followers CONTEST

2010-08-11T05:00:00.006-04:00

I'm crazy. Or amazing. Or both. But I have THE most epic contest ever - EVER -planned for August 20th!! Seriously folks, this contest will include multiple books, critiques and the most awesome cookies you'll ever eat in your lifetime. No joke. And if I reach 75 followers by the contest, I'll sweeten the deal! Plus, this contest will be the easiest ever to enter. No confusing points to calculate. Just an entry. So srsly, you won't want to miss this!

In the meantime, while you anxiously await my Epic 50 Followers Contest, you still have my Awesome New Blog Contest to enter! If you haven't already entered, you only have two more days! So read about it here, then enter, share, tweet and blog about it. Contest ends on Friday the 13th, then return on Saturday to see who the lucky winner is!