Empowering Unsung Women in History
Posts that give advice, instruction, and information about literature.
For 22 years, when I taught fifth or sixth grade, I began the year teaching Personal Narrative. Students who are reluctant writers always did well in this unit because Everyone Has a Story. They learned how to take a memory with impact and turn it into a story that can impact a reader. To begin,… Continue reading Emotion in Narrative
(This post first appeared on PaperLanternWriters.com) Last St. Patrick’s Day, my city went on lockdown due to the pandemic. A book talk I had scheduled for that month was cancelled, as was a retreat planned by my publisher. Cancellations also affected one son’s schooling, the other son’s job, my nephew’s wedding, and my niece’s wedding.… Continue reading A Year of Writing in Lockdown
My first love is historical fiction, but my first three novels were historical fantasy. I love fantasy and read all types. Today, though, many schools are moving toward curriculums that emphasize reading nonfiction. While I agree that puzzling meaning out of text is a critical skill for students, I bemoan the loss of time reading… Continue reading Why Should We Read Fantasy?
Or should I call that "Titles of Books"? I've finished the first draft of a new novel, and it's time to come up with a name for it. Some titles spring forth as you're writing and fit immediately. My novel The Aloha Spirit could never be called anything else, even in my head, for a… Continue reading Book Titles
I don’t believe anyone can become a fabulous writer by following only three tips, nor do I believe anyone can absorb the entire multitude of writing advice offered. These three tips will give you a strong start, after which you can further explore what you need to know. Read what you want to write. When… Continue reading Three Tips For New Writers
