To review: I have these elements...a time frame (St. Patrick's Day), interesting factoids (people actually DO make their own luck to some extent), a conflict (Clancy hates St. Patrick's Day), and a mystery (why? because it's the day her husband left her). I need some activities (Kiki's crafts--I'll have to come up with these), and a resolution (I'll think of something).I also have a cute sidebar problem. Anya loves animals and when … [Read more...] about How I Write a Short Story, Part IV
writing process
Writing a Book In A Week–Can It Be Done?
Twice a year, my friends at RWA put together an experience that they call "BIAW." That's short for Book In A Week. Last time I participated, I wrote more than 22,000 words that week. My friend Beverly Bateman was the word-wrangler, and bless her heart, she kept cheering me on. After the first day, she emailed me to say, "Can you keep up this pace?" I sure did. We're all different. Our goals vary. We're motivated by different needs. I love … [Read more...] about Writing a Book In A Week–Can It Be Done?
About Rejection…
I've had two people within the past week ask me how I handle rejection. One said, "Joanna, have you ever had anything rejected by your publisher?"Well, yeah.And I'll tell you how I've come to think about this...See you can't get to the east coast or the west coast without crossing mountains. You can fly over them, or you can drive over them, but one way or the other, you've got to pass through them.Rejection in this business is like mountains. … [Read more...] about About Rejection…
Tools for Overcoming Writer's Block
Last night I posted 15 essays on writing at www.youpublish.com/joannaslanThese were originally monthly columns for an online magazine called "Graceful Bee," but I'm now making them available for a short time for anyone who needs a gentle boost to get writing. Although written for scrapbookers, the ideas and concepts could inspire any writer. Often, when I'm working on a book, I dig through my personal bag of experiences to find raw materials. I … [Read more...] about Tools for Overcoming Writer's Block
Living a Deeply Satisfying Life
Took a quiz on BlogThings, and "discovered" this:Your Life is Deeply Satisfying You live a satisfying life even when it's not easy. You are dedicated to being happy.You make sure to what you're passionate about. You don't waste any moments.You surround yourself with people you cherish. There is a lot of love in your life.You are thankful for everything you have. You don't take anything for granted.It's really true. Going through all my old … [Read more...] about Living a Deeply Satisfying Life
The Thrill is Gone–Mary Buckham Explains Why Outlining Can Feel Like a Drag!
Mary Buckham was in town a couple of weeks ago. If you haven't met her, or had the pleasure and privilege of taking one of her classes, well, POOR YOU! She's just super. A giving and generous teacher who will keep working with you 'til you get what you need. (And I've taught, so I know how sometimes you want to throw up your hands and say, "Um, this just isn't going to happen!")I asked her this question: "I've noticed that as I work on my story … [Read more...] about The Thrill is Gone–Mary Buckham Explains Why Outlining Can Feel Like a Drag!
