Every once in a while I like to pause the craziness for five minutes and reflect on what is making me happy RIGHT AT THIS MOMENT. Here's today's happiness list:
--My fantabulous agent, Kate Schafer Testerman, who manages to be calm, kind, AND encouraging
--The weather, which has dropped from a little-too-hot 89 yesterday to 77 today. Family bike ride, we are coming at you tonight!
--Salt and Vinegar almonds. I can totally pretend these are healthy.
--Pandora radio, rocking me out right now
--T2, my current manuscript, which I love dearly because it keeps surprising me. Should hit 50k this week!
--Fellow authors and friends who keep up a steady stream of sparkles when I need it, and chat when all is cool. :)
Happy Tuesday, lovelies!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Winners!!
DRUM ROLL, PLEASE!!
The winner of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is....
The winner of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is....
Rachael Allen!
The winner of THIS IS NOT A TEST is...
Amanda!
(winners drawn with Random.org from all entries)
Rachael and Amanda, please email me at susan(dot)adrian (at) yahoo (dot) com with your addresses, so I can send you your fantabulous prizes!!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
GIVEAWAY: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL and THIS IS NOT A TEST!!
*NOTE: Contest is now closed. Thanks to those who entered!*
Today's an exciting day for readers. TWO amazeballs books are releasing today! TWO books that I am so very excited for readers to get in their hands and devour and love, in different ways.
First is a book I haven't had a chance to read yet, but believe me, I can't wait.
Something Like Normal by Trish Doller is not your standard contemporary. First, it's from the boy's perspective--but more than that, Travis is a Marine, back from a tour in Afghanistan. Here's the summary:
When Travis returns home from a stint in Afghanistan, his parents are splitting up, his brother’s stolen his girlfriend and his car, and he’s haunted by nightmares of his best friend’s death. It’s not until Travis runs into Harper, a girl he’s had a rocky relationship with since middle school, that life actually starts looking up. And as he and Harper see more of each other, he begins to pick his way through the minefield of family problems and post-traumatic stress to the possibility of a life that might resemble normal again. Travis’s dry sense of humor, and incredible sense of honor, make him an irresistible and eminently lovable hero. (from Goodreads)
I've known Trish since we were both hanging around at Verla Kay's Blueboards, writing different books, querying, going through the process. I always liked Trish's avatar because it looked so hopeful, so friendly. Her posts were friendly too, and smart. I was thrilled when I discovered that my new agent represented Trish too--we're agent sisters!--and she's been very supportive of me.
But that's not why I think you should read this book. It's not why *I* want to read this book. I want to read it because of reviews like this one, about SLN's emotional honesty:
http://youngadultanonymous.blogspot.com/2012/06/review-something-like-normal-by-trish.html
and this one, which says it's an "important, timely novel" but also talks about the strengths of the romance, and the realism:
http://cleareyesfullshelves.com/blog/early-review-something-like-normal-by-trish-doller.html
Yeah. So that's Reason #1 to be excited about today as a reader. You can buy that book!
Second is a book I HAVE read, and loved. GUYS. COURTNEY SUMMERS HAS A NEW BOOK OUT TODAY, AND IT'S ABOUT ZOMBIES!!
This Is Not a Test.
Well. It's not really about zombies. It's about people: damaged, hurting, REAL people who happen to have to deal with zombies. Here's my review from Goodreads:
***
I've loved all of Courtney's books, and I expected to like this one--she is such a talented writer, she can pull anything off. Even zombies! I admit, I'm not a zombie fan--but this book isn't about zombies at all. It's about people: how they relate, how they react in difficult circumstances, and really, how they can completely mess each other up--and redeem each other.
Courtney's amazing skill lies in opening a vein directly to a character and letting us in to that private, real world. That skill hasn't changed just because this book has zombies. Sloane is very, very real and heartbreaking in her pain, but she was still someone I wanted to spend time with and understand. All the other characters are also deeply realized, complex people in their own right.
The zombie setting is well done and keeps you on the edge of your seat, but in the end it's Sloane's journey I found most compelling.
Read it. Trust me.
***
I have to tell you too--in just a little aside--how awesome Courtney is. She's been an incredibly supportive friend to me for years now, and I have a sneaking suspicion she is the same with a ton of other writers. Courtney emails have made me cry, have gotten me through, have made me laugh out loud more than once. I think she deserves the best of everything.
She just also happens to write effing kick-ass amazing books, which I am so happy to support.
So here's where you say WEREN'T YOU GOING TO GIVE AWAY A BOOK, SUSAN?
Why, yes. Yes, I was. Not only that, I am going to GIVE AWAY TWO BOOKS, one of each.
Here is ALL you have to do:
--Comment on this post and tell me which book you'd like, Something Like Normal or This Is Not a Test (or if you want either, say that too!) You'll be entered!
--You get an extra entry if you tweet about the contest! Just make sure to @susan_adrian so I see it!
--Contest will be open until Thursday morning, June 22, 8 am MDT. North American entries only, please (sorry!) The winners will have the books shipped directly to them.
Let's all celebrate this Excellent Reader Day!!
Today's an exciting day for readers. TWO amazeballs books are releasing today! TWO books that I am so very excited for readers to get in their hands and devour and love, in different ways.
Something Like Normal by Trish Doller is not your standard contemporary. First, it's from the boy's perspective--but more than that, Travis is a Marine, back from a tour in Afghanistan. Here's the summary:
When Travis returns home from a stint in Afghanistan, his parents are splitting up, his brother’s stolen his girlfriend and his car, and he’s haunted by nightmares of his best friend’s death. It’s not until Travis runs into Harper, a girl he’s had a rocky relationship with since middle school, that life actually starts looking up. And as he and Harper see more of each other, he begins to pick his way through the minefield of family problems and post-traumatic stress to the possibility of a life that might resemble normal again. Travis’s dry sense of humor, and incredible sense of honor, make him an irresistible and eminently lovable hero. (from Goodreads)
I've known Trish since we were both hanging around at Verla Kay's Blueboards, writing different books, querying, going through the process. I always liked Trish's avatar because it looked so hopeful, so friendly. Her posts were friendly too, and smart. I was thrilled when I discovered that my new agent represented Trish too--we're agent sisters!--and she's been very supportive of me.
But that's not why I think you should read this book. It's not why *I* want to read this book. I want to read it because of reviews like this one, about SLN's emotional honesty:
http://youngadultanonymous.blogspot.com/2012/06/review-something-like-normal-by-trish.html
and this one, which says it's an "important, timely novel" but also talks about the strengths of the romance, and the realism:
http://cleareyesfullshelves.com/blog/early-review-something-like-normal-by-trish-doller.html
Yeah. So that's Reason #1 to be excited about today as a reader. You can buy that book!
Second is a book I HAVE read, and loved. GUYS. COURTNEY SUMMERS HAS A NEW BOOK OUT TODAY, AND IT'S ABOUT ZOMBIES!!
This Is Not a Test.
Well. It's not really about zombies. It's about people: damaged, hurting, REAL people who happen to have to deal with zombies. Here's my review from Goodreads:
***
I've loved all of Courtney's books, and I expected to like this one--she is such a talented writer, she can pull anything off. Even zombies! I admit, I'm not a zombie fan--but this book isn't about zombies at all. It's about people: how they relate, how they react in difficult circumstances, and really, how they can completely mess each other up--and redeem each other.
Courtney's amazing skill lies in opening a vein directly to a character and letting us in to that private, real world. That skill hasn't changed just because this book has zombies. Sloane is very, very real and heartbreaking in her pain, but she was still someone I wanted to spend time with and understand. All the other characters are also deeply realized, complex people in their own right.
The zombie setting is well done and keeps you on the edge of your seat, but in the end it's Sloane's journey I found most compelling.
Read it. Trust me.
***
I have to tell you too--in just a little aside--how awesome Courtney is. She's been an incredibly supportive friend to me for years now, and I have a sneaking suspicion she is the same with a ton of other writers. Courtney emails have made me cry, have gotten me through, have made me laugh out loud more than once. I think she deserves the best of everything.
She just also happens to write effing kick-ass amazing books, which I am so happy to support.
So here's where you say WEREN'T YOU GOING TO GIVE AWAY A BOOK, SUSAN?
Why, yes. Yes, I was. Not only that, I am going to GIVE AWAY TWO BOOKS, one of each.
Here is ALL you have to do:
--Comment on this post and tell me which book you'd like, Something Like Normal or This Is Not a Test (or if you want either, say that too!) You'll be entered!
--You get an extra entry if you tweet about the contest! Just make sure to @susan_adrian so I see it!
--Contest will be open until Thursday morning, June 22, 8 am MDT. North American entries only, please (sorry!) The winners will have the books shipped directly to them.
Let's all celebrate this Excellent Reader Day!!
Friday, June 15, 2012
Triplet Talk: The Thrilling Conclusion
Welcome to the thrill-a-minute conclusion of Triplet Talk, a chat with Kate Schafer Testerman and her 3 brand-new clients: myself, Elizabeth Briggs, and Krista Van Dolzer.
I hope you've come here by way of the other 3 installments, or to be honest, it's not going to make a ton of sense! If you haven't and you'd like to start at the beginning, here are the links:
And now, Part 4, featuring last bits of advice, guns, and puppies! (Dum dum dum....)
*****
Krista: I'll throw my last question out there, then, unless
anyone has any others...?
Susan: Perfect.
Kate: Go ahead!
Liz: Yep.
Krista: For Liz and Susan, now that you’ve reached the
querying finish line, what do you wish you had known when you were back at the
start gate? And for Kate, any last words of advice or encouragement you’d like
to share with us?
Liz: Hmm.
Susan: As usual, I will twist that to my own purposes. Ha! I
don't have much with the querying process, but I have to say: please, please,
find the agent who's the RIGHT fit for you, not just any agent.
Krista: Susan, it sounds to me like you're saying that
writers should only query those agents they'd genuinely like to work with. It
doesn't do you any good to query someone you'd rather not sign with.
Susan: Yes, and don't just say yes to the first person who
offers. Research, talk to clients.
And once you have an agent, communicate and make SURE it's
still a right fit. I ended up leaving my previous agent after 3 years and it was petrifying to take the
leap and leave that safety net, but I am so much happier now for my future. It
was the right choice, and it's critical.
Liz: According to my husband I am THE most impatient person
in the world. And when you hear stories like "I queried and the next day
got an offer," it's hard to not think "THAT WILL BE ME." So I
would have wanted to know that waiting doesn't always mean it will be a no, and
to just be patient. Also good submission advice.
Krista: So true, Liz.
Kate: Let's see. Personal to you guys, I would say remember
I'm always here, and you can always ask me anything! More generally, I think
working on your writing now is good, but don't forget to get in some reading
for pleasure too. When you all sign multi-book contracts, and have to deliver
book two quickly, you'll miss these days of free time!
Susan: Yes, Liz! Kate, here's hoping!
Patience and perseverance.
Liz: Fingers crossed.
Krista: I've learned not to compare myself to others. Their
successes aren't my failures, so I can cheer with them and cry with them. We
really are all in this together (even if we're not all triplets, like the three
of us).
Liz: Yeah, that is tough too. Everyone's journey is
different.
Susan: Good point, Krista. Comparing does NOT work during
subs.
Krista: Oh, I definitely read for pleasure. I get through,
like, two books a week.
Kate: *is jealous*
Susan: Me too. I can't read much when first-drafting!
Krista: Hey, baby's gotta eat, mama's gotta read.
Liz: Haha.
Kate: I read a lot more in those early days with Beau. Of
course, I picked the WORST books! I mean, good books, but very bad for a new
momma.
Susan: I read all of the Harry Potter books aloud to Child
when I was nursing. We're about to start reading them together now...and I
wonder if they'll sound vaguely familiar...
Liz: Heh.
Krista: That's a fun thought, Susan.
How were they bad for a new mom, Kate?
Liz: I have no kids. But the dogs like to sit with me when I
read. Very helpful.
Krista: Very helpful dogs, indeed, Liz.
Kate: Living Dead Girl
by Liz Scott and Tender Morsels by
Margo Lanagan, to name a few. But also most of the Thief series by Megan Whalen
Turner, and Diana Peterfreund's unicorn hunter books.
Liz: They sit on my feet when I write too.
Kate: Puppies!
Susan: Oh, love Diana's unicorn books.
Kate: Jake is keeping me company while I work.
Susan: Jake...the puppy?
Kate: Jake is one of my dogs, Dizzy is the other.
Susan: Ha! Because Jake the character keeps me company while
I work...
Krista: Oh, I thought Susan's MC had somehow climbed out of
her manuscript, and we were all going to find out that urban fantasy is REAL.
Kate: As well he should! I just realized what I said! Duh!
Susan: HA.
Liz: Susan's book is magic obviously.
Susan: Clearly. He has assumed puppy form.
Kate: There you go, Susan, next time you get stuck in the
plot, turn Jake into a puppy.
Susan: I can say my agent told me to do that.
Liz: Good plan.
Kate: It's a cuddlier version of "blow something
up."
Susan: Yes! Generally though I just like to bring in a gun.
Krista and Liz, that might not work for you...
Liz: Totally works for my book.
Susan: *high-five Liz*
Krista: Uh, no. I'm pretty sure firearms aren't allowed in
most middle schools... :)
Liz: I took a firearms class to research my book
Susan: Oh now I'm jealous.
Kate: OK, I should go get the boy.
Krista: See you guys later! It's been wonderful chatting!
Susan: Thank you so much!
Liz: Yeah this was fun!
*****
Th-Th-That's All, Folks! We certainly had fun. I hope it was fun (or funny) for you too, and informative. It definitely shows that agents are people too--and that your relationship with your agent IS a professional one, but doesn't have to be all seriousness.
Also, I hope we intrigued you a little about our books!
Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go write a scene where Jake turns into a puppy....
Friday, June 08, 2012
Truth
I've kept a few secrets from you, blog.
Sometimes you knew, like I when I was pointing you at fuzzy kittens instead.
Sometimes I hid it pretty well, even when I was having really rough time. Or I just didn't post at all for a month.
But the truth is I quit writing last year, when it got impossible to go on. And then a story brought me back, with full, blazing love.
The full truth, if you're curious, is in my Turning Points post on Nova Ren Suma's blog today.
Sometimes you knew, like I when I was pointing you at fuzzy kittens instead.
Sometimes I hid it pretty well, even when I was having really rough time. Or I just didn't post at all for a month.
But the truth is I quit writing last year, when it got impossible to go on. And then a story brought me back, with full, blazing love.
The full truth, if you're curious, is in my Turning Points post on Nova Ren Suma's blog today.
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
A ramble on nerd-dom
I'm a nerd, or a geek.1 I don't try to hide it--it's right there in my bio, if you couldn't guess from the glasses I'm wearing. I'm proud of it. And I'm SO happy to be currently living in a world that celebrates nerds, at least in some ways. When I was in grammar school, let's just say nerds were not celebrated.
*uncomfortable flashback to grammar school lunchroom*
Whew. Okay, zoom right past THAT. Nothing to see there.
Anyway. I've been thinking lately about how varied, and accepting, the geek world is--and how even if they don't realize it, or own it, most people I know and love are geeks in some way. It started with a quote @MarthaMihalick posted on Twitter (via @brainpicker):
"Being a geek is all about your own personal level of enthusiasm, not how your level of enthusiasm measures up to others. If you like something so much that a casual mention of it makes your whole being light up like a halogen lamp, if hearing a stranger fondly mention your favorite book or game is instant grounds for friendship, if you have ever found yourself bouncing out of your chair because something you learned blew your mind so hard that you physically could not contain yourself — you are a geek."As I read that, I thought THAT IS SO ME. I don't hide enthusiasm for the things I love. I bounce and squee and grin like a fool at the TV as Sherlock is figuring something out or Chuck kisses Sarah. It's the open, shining enthusiasm that makes a geek, the obsession with little details, the fascination with all things related to whatever we love. It does make us easy to pick on, to mock--but it also keeps us stocked up with joy.
Over the years I've changed the things I'm geeky about. Of course it's books...it was always books. I've been a book nerd since I could hold one in my little hands, or have my own library card. But I've also been a ballet nerd. A drama geek. A Shakespeare geek specifically. (Even a Chaucer geek! I wrote a book called The Murderess's Tale, set in 1387 England...) A science geek. (Wait, I'm still that too!) A brain science geek. I learned to program computers in Basic in 7th grade. My husband and I were obsessed with Myst, once upon a time, and that Frankenstein video game we still quote. I love Princess Bride and Star Wars (the originals, of course) and Star Trek Enterprise. I'm crazy about Buffy and Jason Bourne and, of course, Chuck.
Sometimes I doubt my nerd cred, because I don't like Doctor Who, and I'm not a particular fan of high fantasy. I've never read George R.R Martin. But you know what, nerds? That's OKAY. To call yourself a nerd you don't have to ascribe to all the same things as everyone else you know...you just need to love what you love, unabashedly.
My husband, in spite of playing a few video games here and there, doesn't think of himself as a nerd--he doesn't like fantasy or science fiction, and he doesn't geek out over shows and movies like I do. BUT he's a total airplane nerd. If there's a show or a book or a website about airplanes, he's on it. If you ask him a question about the P-47's use in WWII and how the handling compares to the P-51, he knows. I think that qualifies.
I think maybe because geeks/nerds are a little out of the realm of the real world in their own ways, they recognize and appreciate the nerdiness of others, even if it's not about the same thing. So yeah, Star Wars geeks might make fun of Trekkies (Trekkers, I know), but in the end they are in the same camp, on the same side. The passionate side of life.
What do you think, fellow nerds? What are you passionate about? What flips your switch? Has it changed over the years?
And do you think nerds are more accepting of other nerds, even with different passions, than non-nerds are? Or are we all just in our separate nerd camps, with some overlap?
Live long and prosper, and Don't Freak Out.
1I tried to decide if I was really one or the other based on this article (http://www.wikihow.com/Tell-the-Difference-Between-Nerds-and-Geeks), but I don't think the differences they cite are valid. I fall into both and neither, as described! So I'm using them interchangeably. So there.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Happy Towel Day!
Hey, you sass that hoopy Ford Prefect? There's a frood who really knows where his towel is.
Happy Towel Day, Froods!
In honor of Douglas Adams, one of my favorite authors of ALL TIME.
He wasn't afraid to let his geek flag fly and let his writing go where it wanted to go, and he inspired the heck out of me, among thousands (millions?) of others.
And for my own spin on it, mixing genres a tiny bit:
Happy Towel Day, Froods!
In honor of Douglas Adams, one of my favorite authors of ALL TIME.
He wasn't afraid to let his geek flag fly and let his writing go where it wanted to go, and he inspired the heck out of me, among thousands (millions?) of others.
Friday, May 18, 2012
The Best Part
I had an interesting discussion on Twitter yesterday (yes, it's possible, doubters!) about which part of book-writing is the best. I was extolling the happiness of first-drafting, and was surprised that every single one of the authors I was talking to strongly preferred revising to the blank page.
Which made me think...WHY? (why do different people like different bits, and why am I loving the first draft?)
If there's one thing I've learned over the past few years, it's that not only are no two writers alike...no two BOOKS are alike. The process always twists to the needs of the book. For example, the last book was the first time I'd ever written with a playlist, and used the music as part of my creative process. So I know better than to generalize, even for myself.
But for the last book I wrote and the one I'm writing now, I definitely, definitively love the first draft part of writing. Perhaps unreasonably. For these books, it's like I truly am telling the story to myself, so every day a little piece of the puzzle is revealed. Plot points shift, I'm aware of pacing and larger themes, and I have a whole notebook of where-this-needs-to-go and don't-forget-this and these-are-the-threads-you're-balancing-now (currently, 11 threads! Ha!). But day to day, it's all about the story for me. As my friend Linda Grimes has said, it's like an interactive movie.
Also, in the first draft everything still seems POSSIBLE. Not only for the character, but for the book. It can still be genius, with amazing twists and turns. I'm still at the start of the process, so this is all still just me and the page--I know I will have many chances to go over it and get it right, so now I can play and explore and have fun.
I enjoy doing revision too (I am an editor, after all, in my daily life), and later passes where I can strengthen and layer and add better twists and plot developments and setting, and make everything work. But somehow with every draft it seems like my opportunities narrow, a little. I'm working with already existing words and story, and flexing it (or taking it apart and rearranging it) to make it the best I can, but it's not all blank possibility.
But I'm sure I'm forgetting things here, just looking at my own experience with these last two books particularly. I'd really like to hear from you. What is the best part of the process for you? Why?
Please answer in the comments! If we get enough discussion maybe I can do a follow up from the reviser's perspective.
Which made me think...WHY? (why do different people like different bits, and why am I loving the first draft?)
If there's one thing I've learned over the past few years, it's that not only are no two writers alike...no two BOOKS are alike. The process always twists to the needs of the book. For example, the last book was the first time I'd ever written with a playlist, and used the music as part of my creative process. So I know better than to generalize, even for myself.
But for the last book I wrote and the one I'm writing now, I definitely, definitively love the first draft part of writing. Perhaps unreasonably. For these books, it's like I truly am telling the story to myself, so every day a little piece of the puzzle is revealed. Plot points shift, I'm aware of pacing and larger themes, and I have a whole notebook of where-this-needs-to-go and don't-forget-this and these-are-the-threads-you're-balancing-now (currently, 11 threads! Ha!). But day to day, it's all about the story for me. As my friend Linda Grimes has said, it's like an interactive movie.
Also, in the first draft everything still seems POSSIBLE. Not only for the character, but for the book. It can still be genius, with amazing twists and turns. I'm still at the start of the process, so this is all still just me and the page--I know I will have many chances to go over it and get it right, so now I can play and explore and have fun.
I enjoy doing revision too (I am an editor, after all, in my daily life), and later passes where I can strengthen and layer and add better twists and plot developments and setting, and make everything work. But somehow with every draft it seems like my opportunities narrow, a little. I'm working with already existing words and story, and flexing it (or taking it apart and rearranging it) to make it the best I can, but it's not all blank possibility.
But I'm sure I'm forgetting things here, just looking at my own experience with these last two books particularly. I'd really like to hear from you. What is the best part of the process for you? Why?
Please answer in the comments! If we get enough discussion maybe I can do a follow up from the reviser's perspective.
Friday, May 04, 2012
Winner of Boy 21
And the winner of a copy of BOY 21 is...
Shiela Calderon Blankemeier!!
Congratulations, Shiela! Email me (susan dot adrian at yahoo dot com) with your address!
And Happy Friday, everybody! I am particularly happy today because New Book (T2 is its code name) is going well...
Wednesday, May 02, 2012
Boys
Recently--okay, when I was talking with agents--I made a list, in case anyone asked me, of my most recent LOVED books. It seems like there have been many of them lately, an Abundance of Awesome, and it was tough to pick and choose. But when I studied my carefully whittled-down list, I noticed a certain trend. See if you can spot it.
Susan's Recent LOVE books:
I HUNT KILLERS (Barry Lyga)
BLACK HEART (Holly Black)
ANNA DRESSED IN BLOOD (Kendare Blake)
NAME OF THE STAR (Maureen Johnson)
BOY 21 (Matthew Quick)
Do you see it?
With the exception of NAME OF THE STAR, all of those books have a boy MC. But these are the books that stood out for me, that I thought about into the night, that thrilled or touched me.
Boys. Teen boys. While I have been a teen girl, I was never a teen boy.
However, interestingly (and perhaps not coincidentally, *cough*), HAPPY SAUCE* has a boy MC too. So I have been in a boy's head for much of the past year, and I am now. And though I'm sure I'll write girls again (I do still love to read girl MCs too), I'm enjoying it very much.
What is it that I like about the boy POV as opposed to a girl's? What is it that's different? I'm still thinking this through. But a few things I'm positing as possibilities:
--Directness
Most of the boy MCs get right to the point, in words and actions. I also do this, so I appreciate it.
--Sparseness
I have never been a fan of long bits of description, setting, clothes, etc. Boys--at least my boy, I guess I shouldn't extrapolate--don't seem to do as much of this.
--Conversational style
I LOVE having dialogue where my boy says very little, but his thoughts are churning underneath in a million different directions. Just because he doesn't say much (and he doesn't) doesn't mean he's not deeply considering the issue. And then when he does say a lot it means more.
--Boy humor
I like boy humor. I always have. Except the fart jokes. Y'all can keep those. Also, side note, my boy is a gamer and a bit of a nerd, which is fun. I like having him play HALO and COD with his friends.
--Difference
For me, it's fascinating to explore the differences. To think about shaving and attraction to girls and male parts that don't behave (yes, I really just want to type boner there). To not have to think about shaving your legs or doing your hair or what shoes to wear. To have physical tasks come a bit more easily. To explore how his relationship with his sister is different, less competitive, than it would be if he were a girl.
It seems to me there are a bunch of good boy MC books coming out lately, and they're not necessarily just for the male teen audience. They're great books.
What about you? If you're a girl, or a woman, do you read male MCs? Do you like them?
If you're male, do you read/enjoy female MCs?
Also, on this theme, I happen to have a lovely ARC of BOY 21 by Matthew Quick sitting here next to me. See?
I think I should give it away. To get someone else reading about boys--but more particularly, to get this WONDERFUL book out there into the world more.
Do you want to win it? All you have to do is comment below. Simple. Direct. :)
(forgot to say when it closes--contest will be closed Friday morning, 8 am!)
CLOSED TO FURTHER ENTRIES.
*I hope it's clear that HAPPY SAUCE is not its real name. It just made me so happy to write it that I called it that.
Susan's Recent LOVE books:
I HUNT KILLERS (Barry Lyga)
BLACK HEART (Holly Black)
ANNA DRESSED IN BLOOD (Kendare Blake)
NAME OF THE STAR (Maureen Johnson)
BOY 21 (Matthew Quick)
Do you see it?
With the exception of NAME OF THE STAR, all of those books have a boy MC. But these are the books that stood out for me, that I thought about into the night, that thrilled or touched me.
Boys. Teen boys. While I have been a teen girl, I was never a teen boy.
However, interestingly (and perhaps not coincidentally, *cough*), HAPPY SAUCE* has a boy MC too. So I have been in a boy's head for much of the past year, and I am now. And though I'm sure I'll write girls again (I do still love to read girl MCs too), I'm enjoying it very much.
What is it that I like about the boy POV as opposed to a girl's? What is it that's different? I'm still thinking this through. But a few things I'm positing as possibilities:
--Directness
Most of the boy MCs get right to the point, in words and actions. I also do this, so I appreciate it.
--Sparseness
I have never been a fan of long bits of description, setting, clothes, etc. Boys--at least my boy, I guess I shouldn't extrapolate--don't seem to do as much of this.
--Conversational style
I LOVE having dialogue where my boy says very little, but his thoughts are churning underneath in a million different directions. Just because he doesn't say much (and he doesn't) doesn't mean he's not deeply considering the issue. And then when he does say a lot it means more.
--Boy humor
I like boy humor. I always have. Except the fart jokes. Y'all can keep those. Also, side note, my boy is a gamer and a bit of a nerd, which is fun. I like having him play HALO and COD with his friends.
--Difference
For me, it's fascinating to explore the differences. To think about shaving and attraction to girls and male parts that don't behave (yes, I really just want to type boner there). To not have to think about shaving your legs or doing your hair or what shoes to wear. To have physical tasks come a bit more easily. To explore how his relationship with his sister is different, less competitive, than it would be if he were a girl.
It seems to me there are a bunch of good boy MC books coming out lately, and they're not necessarily just for the male teen audience. They're great books.
What about you? If you're a girl, or a woman, do you read male MCs? Do you like them?
If you're male, do you read/enjoy female MCs?
Also, on this theme, I happen to have a lovely ARC of BOY 21 by Matthew Quick sitting here next to me. See?
I think I should give it away. To get someone else reading about boys--but more particularly, to get this WONDERFUL book out there into the world more.
Do you want to win it? All you have to do is comment below. Simple. Direct. :)
(forgot to say when it closes--contest will be closed Friday morning, 8 am!)
CLOSED TO FURTHER ENTRIES.
*I hope it's clear that HAPPY SAUCE is not its real name. It just made me so happy to write it that I called it that.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Happy Sauce!
Related to the New Agent news, I have to pop in to confess how THRILLED I am to be back at work on Happy Sauce.
While I was querying agents I tried to put that whole book world aside and work on other things, like you're supposed to. I bounced around a few good ideas before settling on one, doing some research and planning, and I was about 3k in when all this *waves hands* happened. Yes, that'll be a fun book, and I'll get back to it eventually, and maybe I'll fall in love with it too.
But Happy Sauce fills me up differently. It's my love book and always has been. And I'm working on it again. Right now! Yay!
/this message has been brought to you by the Insane Writers Society of America. You're welcome.
While I was querying agents I tried to put that whole book world aside and work on other things, like you're supposed to. I bounced around a few good ideas before settling on one, doing some research and planning, and I was about 3k in when all this *waves hands* happened. Yes, that'll be a fun book, and I'll get back to it eventually, and maybe I'll fall in love with it too.
But Happy Sauce fills me up differently. It's my love book and always has been. And I'm working on it again. Right now! Yay!
/this message has been brought to you by the Insane Writers Society of America. You're welcome.
Friday, April 13, 2012
NEWS!!
When I was about 14, I discovered what first love felt like.
Not from real life. From a book--Mary Stewart's THE MOON-SPINNERS.* There's a scene in there somewhere where Nicola, the heroine, realizes there really is something between her and the Boy, that it's reciprocated...and that she's standing at the absolute start of something fabulous. The feeling is warm and fizzy and hopeful, and filled me up with possibility.
That's exactly the same feeling I had when I spoke with my new agent about my book.
Yes!! I am so very happy to announce that I have a new agent, Kate Schafer Testerman of kt literary!
I would make her name be all sparkly up there if I could.
She understands the book so well, and shares my vision for it. We effused about the characters and their inspirations, and what will happen to them (poor Jake, I'm sorry), and what we hope for this book and the future. And I KNEW that this was the beginning, and that my career is in the right hands.
It's also rather nice that her client list is a Who's Who of What I Love or Want to Read. Seriously! Have you seen these people? Have you read their amazing books? Go! Look! http://ktliterary.com/clients/
(edited to add: Eee! I'm on there now! I wasn't when I posted this.)
Basically I'm thrilled, and fizzing to the brim. And I need to thank ALL the writer friends who helped me in this time of upheaval--with readings, recommendations, referrals, encouragement, sparkles, and most of all a steady stream of confidence that I *would* find the right person. Y'all rock. THANK you.
Now can we all stop for a moment and do a Snoopy dance? Yeah, baby!
Also...I LOVE THIS BOOK. Yay!!
*Last year, when I was in the middle of a very rough time writing-wise, I wrote to Mary Stewart. And she WROTE BACK. This was undoubtedly my biggest fangirl moment ever, standing there reading her letter of encouragement to me. It lives in my jewelry box now, where I see it every day.
Not from real life. From a book--Mary Stewart's THE MOON-SPINNERS.* There's a scene in there somewhere where Nicola, the heroine, realizes there really is something between her and the Boy, that it's reciprocated...and that she's standing at the absolute start of something fabulous. The feeling is warm and fizzy and hopeful, and filled me up with possibility.
That's exactly the same feeling I had when I spoke with my new agent about my book.
Yes!! I am so very happy to announce that I have a new agent, Kate Schafer Testerman of kt literary!
I would make her name be all sparkly up there if I could.
She understands the book so well, and shares my vision for it. We effused about the characters and their inspirations, and what will happen to them (poor Jake, I'm sorry), and what we hope for this book and the future. And I KNEW that this was the beginning, and that my career is in the right hands.
It's also rather nice that her client list is a Who's Who of What I Love or Want to Read. Seriously! Have you seen these people? Have you read their amazing books? Go! Look! http://ktliterary.com/clients/
(edited to add: Eee! I'm on there now! I wasn't when I posted this.)
Basically I'm thrilled, and fizzing to the brim. And I need to thank ALL the writer friends who helped me in this time of upheaval--with readings, recommendations, referrals, encouragement, sparkles, and most of all a steady stream of confidence that I *would* find the right person. Y'all rock. THANK you.
Now can we all stop for a moment and do a Snoopy dance? Yeah, baby!
*Last year, when I was in the middle of a very rough time writing-wise, I wrote to Mary Stewart. And she WROTE BACK. This was undoubtedly my biggest fangirl moment ever, standing there reading her letter of encouragement to me. It lives in my jewelry box now, where I see it every day.
Tuesday, April 03, 2012
Lessons from Home Ec
Watching Mad Men makes me flash back to the only part of my youth that was anything like the late 50s/early 60s: Home Ec.
I can't believe this class still existed when I was in high school--apparently now they've updated it to Culinary Arts. But when I was there, it was still full-on home ec. We learned cooking (sort of), but also sewing, deportment, why we shouldn't chew gum, and how to balance a checkbook. The teacher, a Joan Holloway type, tried her best to teach us to be proper ladies, with the subtext of being good wives and mothers.
Now that I've been a wife for a good many years and a mother for ten (and I am also a lot more than that besides, thank you very much), I thought it might be interesting to take a quick look back at some of those lessons we had, and see which ones are worth listening to.
Let's do it. HOME EC: Keep or Toss?
Lesson: How to Sit Like a Lady
The memory of this lesson still makes me laugh. We learned how to sit in that awkward way TV hosts and princesses do--with one leg crossed over the other, both slanted the same direction. There's no chance of under-skirt flashing, sure. But you also feel like a pretzel, and your legs get stiff and sore in about 2 minutes. I've never used this except to show people how silly it is.
Verdict: TOSS
Lesson: How to Walk Like a Lady
We donned high heels and walked across the room with spines straight, books balanced on our head. I am completely serious. It was just like Princess Diaries. The problem is whether you can balance books on your head depends more on whether your head is flattish on top than whether you have a straight spine. Plus it's ridiculous. I do think sitting up straight is valuable--I have a note on my monitor that says "Sit up straight!" because I don't and it hurts my back to slump. But walking with books?
Verdict: TOSS
Lesson: How to Put a Condom on a Banana
Um...on second thought I am totally skipping this one.
Lesson: How to Make Blueberry Muffins
The funny thing is all I remember from this lesson is that I failed it--because part of the lesson was to fold fresh blueberries in the batter with the correct technique so the batter didn't turn purple. My batter was bright purple, baby. FAIL. I do love to cook now, but I've never really needed the "folding blueberries" part.
Verdict: TOSS
Lesson: How to Put Make-up on So You Won't Wrinkle
This stuck with me more than anything else we learned. The teacher stressed that to avoid early wrinkles around your eyes, you should *always* put make-up or lotion on with your third (ring) finger. Somehow using your third finger put less pressure on the area than the other fingers, and presto when we were older like her we would not be all wrinkly. I have always put make-up on with my third finger. I gotta tell you, it kind of works.
Verdict: KEEP
What do you know? I learned something after all. Just don't ask me to sit like a princess or make white blueberry muffins, and we're all good.
I am pretty sure I'm not much of a lady, though. Also, I can't sew worth a damn. *shrug*
Please tell me someone else had Home Ec like this? Got any stories?
I can't believe this class still existed when I was in high school--apparently now they've updated it to Culinary Arts. But when I was there, it was still full-on home ec. We learned cooking (sort of), but also sewing, deportment, why we shouldn't chew gum, and how to balance a checkbook. The teacher, a Joan Holloway type, tried her best to teach us to be proper ladies, with the subtext of being good wives and mothers.
Now that I've been a wife for a good many years and a mother for ten (and I am also a lot more than that besides, thank you very much), I thought it might be interesting to take a quick look back at some of those lessons we had, and see which ones are worth listening to.
Let's do it. HOME EC: Keep or Toss?
Lesson: How to Sit Like a Lady
The memory of this lesson still makes me laugh. We learned how to sit in that awkward way TV hosts and princesses do--with one leg crossed over the other, both slanted the same direction. There's no chance of under-skirt flashing, sure. But you also feel like a pretzel, and your legs get stiff and sore in about 2 minutes. I've never used this except to show people how silly it is.
Verdict: TOSS
Lesson: How to Walk Like a Lady
We donned high heels and walked across the room with spines straight, books balanced on our head. I am completely serious. It was just like Princess Diaries. The problem is whether you can balance books on your head depends more on whether your head is flattish on top than whether you have a straight spine. Plus it's ridiculous. I do think sitting up straight is valuable--I have a note on my monitor that says "Sit up straight!" because I don't and it hurts my back to slump. But walking with books?
Verdict: TOSS
Lesson: How to Put a Condom on a Banana
Um...on second thought I am totally skipping this one.
Lesson: How to Make Blueberry Muffins
The funny thing is all I remember from this lesson is that I failed it--because part of the lesson was to fold fresh blueberries in the batter with the correct technique so the batter didn't turn purple. My batter was bright purple, baby. FAIL. I do love to cook now, but I've never really needed the "folding blueberries" part.
Verdict: TOSS
Lesson: How to Put Make-up on So You Won't Wrinkle
This stuck with me more than anything else we learned. The teacher stressed that to avoid early wrinkles around your eyes, you should *always* put make-up or lotion on with your third (ring) finger. Somehow using your third finger put less pressure on the area than the other fingers, and presto when we were older like her we would not be all wrinkly. I have always put make-up on with my third finger. I gotta tell you, it kind of works.
Verdict: KEEP
What do you know? I learned something after all. Just don't ask me to sit like a princess or make white blueberry muffins, and we're all good.
I am pretty sure I'm not much of a lady, though. Also, I can't sew worth a damn. *shrug*
Please tell me someone else had Home Ec like this? Got any stories?
Monday, March 26, 2012
The State of Susan
It's been a while, so thought I'd catch you up with a random, minor sampling of what's going on over here.
1) The weather was good enough yesterday to go fishing on the river! I didn't catch a (bleep) thing, but hubby did, and it was a gorgeous day. And we saw river otters! A family of three, making their way upstream. They move just like Loch Ness monsters, but when they stopped to stare at us they were adorable. Sorry I didn't have my camera!
2) Here in Montana we tend to forget over the winter months that the bright round thing in the sky has the power to make our skin red if we're out in it all day. But yesterday we actually had the "Did you put sunscreen on yet? Nope. Did you? Nope." conversation. And still did nothing. So we all three totally deserve the red raccoon look we're sporting today. *sigh*
3) Now that Downton Abbey is over for the time being and we're caught up on The Office, hubby and I decided to try this "Mad Men" thing everyone's been talking about FOR FOUR YEARS. (I love Netflix) Yep, we liked it. We've been watching 2 a night. Almost done with season 1.
4) I'm working on a new book! The working title is MAD. No relation to Mad Men at all, but take from it what you will...
5) Still waiting for various things. Good thing I invested in those Big Girl Patience Pants. Now I have to get the Big Girl Productivity Pants working.
6) We're going to Washington, D.C. soon for a mini-vacation. I am SO EXCITED. I've never been, and am giddily planning out trips to the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian and the Spy Museum. Eeee!
/random update
Hope all is well in your corners!
1) The weather was good enough yesterday to go fishing on the river! I didn't catch a (bleep) thing, but hubby did, and it was a gorgeous day. And we saw river otters! A family of three, making their way upstream. They move just like Loch Ness monsters, but when they stopped to stare at us they were adorable. Sorry I didn't have my camera!
2) Here in Montana we tend to forget over the winter months that the bright round thing in the sky has the power to make our skin red if we're out in it all day. But yesterday we actually had the "Did you put sunscreen on yet? Nope. Did you? Nope." conversation. And still did nothing. So we all three totally deserve the red raccoon look we're sporting today. *sigh*
3) Now that Downton Abbey is over for the time being and we're caught up on The Office, hubby and I decided to try this "Mad Men" thing everyone's been talking about FOR FOUR YEARS. (I love Netflix) Yep, we liked it. We've been watching 2 a night. Almost done with season 1.
4) I'm working on a new book! The working title is MAD. No relation to Mad Men at all, but take from it what you will...
5) Still waiting for various things. Good thing I invested in those Big Girl Patience Pants. Now I have to get the Big Girl Productivity Pants working.
6) We're going to Washington, D.C. soon for a mini-vacation. I am SO EXCITED. I've never been, and am giddily planning out trips to the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian and the Spy Museum. Eeee!
/random update
Hope all is well in your corners!
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
When you can't prepare
I always leave a little bit of water at the bottom of the glass.
It's not because I can't drink a whole glass of water, or because I need it as future ammo against aliens.* I've tried to figure it out, and I think it's my need to always consider and prepare for the future.
See, I might be thirsty in a while, and I'll NEED that leftover sip of water. It'll carry me through until I can get more. So I save it, just in case.
I also stuff chocolate in my desk. I very rarely finish a chocolate bar unless I have another one ready. Because I might NEED some. And what will happen if I'm totally out?
I am a terrible hoarder, in fact. My purse has Kleenex packs, mints (in case I feel sick), cough drops (in case I have a sudden cough), snack bags (duh), antacids, girl stuff, chapstick, a notebook and pen (what if I have an idea and there's nothing to write on?), etc. My office desk has repeats of all of the above, plus a toothbrush and toothpaste (I have never brushed my teeth at work), bandaids, and matches (?).
I like to lug all this stuff around with me. When I go to a fancy event with my husband where it's inappropriate to bring a huge purse, it makes me downright uncomfortable.
And most of the time I don't need any of it. But it's nice to have it there, ready. It's comforting, and it makes me feel on top of things.
So it kind of astonishes me sometimes that I've chosen a profession that has so very much uncertainty, and so much that is absolutely OUT of my control.
I can't carry mints to prepare against the crush of rejection.
I can't throw a magic clock in my bag that will wipe out the uncertainty of waiting.
I can't have a pocket ready with the next plot twist I need, or the next book idea that will actually work.
I wish I could. Oh, how I wish I could. I'd save buckets of water if it would help--me or others--with being prepared for this industry.
Maybe I should just get over it and finish my glass.
*obscure reference to Signs, an odd Mel Gibson alien movie
It's not because I can't drink a whole glass of water, or because I need it as future ammo against aliens.* I've tried to figure it out, and I think it's my need to always consider and prepare for the future.
See, I might be thirsty in a while, and I'll NEED that leftover sip of water. It'll carry me through until I can get more. So I save it, just in case.
I also stuff chocolate in my desk. I very rarely finish a chocolate bar unless I have another one ready. Because I might NEED some. And what will happen if I'm totally out?
I am a terrible hoarder, in fact. My purse has Kleenex packs, mints (in case I feel sick), cough drops (in case I have a sudden cough), snack bags (duh), antacids, girl stuff, chapstick, a notebook and pen (what if I have an idea and there's nothing to write on?), etc. My office desk has repeats of all of the above, plus a toothbrush and toothpaste (I have never brushed my teeth at work), bandaids, and matches (?).
I like to lug all this stuff around with me. When I go to a fancy event with my husband where it's inappropriate to bring a huge purse, it makes me downright uncomfortable.
And most of the time I don't need any of it. But it's nice to have it there, ready. It's comforting, and it makes me feel on top of things.
So it kind of astonishes me sometimes that I've chosen a profession that has so very much uncertainty, and so much that is absolutely OUT of my control.
I can't carry mints to prepare against the crush of rejection.
I can't throw a magic clock in my bag that will wipe out the uncertainty of waiting.
I can't have a pocket ready with the next plot twist I need, or the next book idea that will actually work.
I wish I could. Oh, how I wish I could. I'd save buckets of water if it would help--me or others--with being prepared for this industry.
Maybe I should just get over it and finish my glass.
*obscure reference to Signs, an odd Mel Gibson alien movie
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Yo
Wow. Okay, so THAT was a busy time.
There was the two weeks in Hawaii--and then we got back there was the workpileup + ChildFPSReport + ChildMacbethRehearsals/Performances + Husbandworktrip + ParentsGoneCoverage + Shows + PersonalStuff. And I discovered that in the two weeks I was gone, my boss had announced his retirement and 3 of our top people had all changed jobs...and yeah. My brain exploded everywhere, and it wasn't pretty.
But you don't want to hear about that stuff, because it's probably too close to what's going on with you, right? You want to hear Hawaii Highlights?
I...um...don't really have pictures. We were all relaxing and enjoying the moment too much to take pictures, believe it or not! But it was all about hanging out in the warmth and doing stuff in the ocean. We lived in bathing suits all the time. Child and I joked that we perpetually had sand in our EYEBROWS. We snorkeled about 7 times, in various places, and that is just amazing. We all are becoming snorkeling freaks! We saw the caldera of an active volcano, and a coffee farm in Kona, and lots and lots of lava and black sand and white sand and green sand and all colors of coral. But the highlight of this trip, really, was the animal life we saw and/or experienced.
Animals we encountered or witnessed:
--Humpback whales: they were migrating, and at any time you could see pods moving across the ocean from our hotel on the Big Island. Spouts and breaches!
--Dolphins: our hotel (the amazing Hilton Waikoloa) has trained dolphins ON the resort, in a lagoon that happened to be right under our balcony. So we'd go out at night or in the morning and watch the dolphins swimming, leaping, and playing. It was SO FREAKING COOL.
--Sea Turtles: Hubby and I had an extremely close encounter with a huge turtle in the ocean, when we were snorkeling a ways out from the beach. We were holding hands, and he pulled up short and *squealed*, I swear. I looked up, and there was a turtle right in front of my face that was almost as big as him! We swam behind it for a little while. In the hotel they also had 6 or 7 turtles that liked to hang out in the lagoon, and they didn't even take notice of people (or move to avoid them). Child accidentally smacked one in the face when she was swimming. ;)
--Seahorses: Child really really wanted to go to the seahorse farm she saw a brochure for, so of course we did. They raise seahorses as pets so they won't be taken from the wild. We all had a seahorse curl around our fingers.
--Tropical birds: Child had her picture taken with a parrot--it was meant to be on her hand, but it used its beak to climb right up on top of her head. Twice. There were some funny pics in there of her reacting...
--Eels: Man, these things are even creepier live in the ocean than they are in aquariums. They kind of make me shudder. But still, cool to see.
--Lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of tropical fish, while snorkeling. Every kind you can imagine, pretty much. Child even saw a little octopus!
--Hawaiian monk seals: Okay, this one was in the Honolulu aquarium. Cheating. Still, Child had read a book about them, so she was thrilled.
--Chickens and roosters: are everywhere on Oahu, running wild. EVERYWHERE.
--Wild goats
--Marmots
The animals turned out to be the focus of the trip! Well, aside from the sun and the ocean.
Hope you're staying warm where you are! (It was 6 degrees F here this morning, but I am still basking in the memory of Hawaiian sun.)
Aloha!
There was the two weeks in Hawaii--and then we got back there was the workpileup + ChildFPSReport + ChildMacbethRehearsals/Performances + Husbandworktrip + ParentsGoneCoverage + Shows + PersonalStuff. And I discovered that in the two weeks I was gone, my boss had announced his retirement and 3 of our top people had all changed jobs...and yeah. My brain exploded everywhere, and it wasn't pretty.
But you don't want to hear about that stuff, because it's probably too close to what's going on with you, right? You want to hear Hawaii Highlights?
I...um...don't really have pictures. We were all relaxing and enjoying the moment too much to take pictures, believe it or not! But it was all about hanging out in the warmth and doing stuff in the ocean. We lived in bathing suits all the time. Child and I joked that we perpetually had sand in our EYEBROWS. We snorkeled about 7 times, in various places, and that is just amazing. We all are becoming snorkeling freaks! We saw the caldera of an active volcano, and a coffee farm in Kona, and lots and lots of lava and black sand and white sand and green sand and all colors of coral. But the highlight of this trip, really, was the animal life we saw and/or experienced.
Animals we encountered or witnessed:
--Humpback whales: they were migrating, and at any time you could see pods moving across the ocean from our hotel on the Big Island. Spouts and breaches!
--Dolphins: our hotel (the amazing Hilton Waikoloa) has trained dolphins ON the resort, in a lagoon that happened to be right under our balcony. So we'd go out at night or in the morning and watch the dolphins swimming, leaping, and playing. It was SO FREAKING COOL.
--Sea Turtles: Hubby and I had an extremely close encounter with a huge turtle in the ocean, when we were snorkeling a ways out from the beach. We were holding hands, and he pulled up short and *squealed*, I swear. I looked up, and there was a turtle right in front of my face that was almost as big as him! We swam behind it for a little while. In the hotel they also had 6 or 7 turtles that liked to hang out in the lagoon, and they didn't even take notice of people (or move to avoid them). Child accidentally smacked one in the face when she was swimming. ;)
--Seahorses: Child really really wanted to go to the seahorse farm she saw a brochure for, so of course we did. They raise seahorses as pets so they won't be taken from the wild. We all had a seahorse curl around our fingers.
--Tropical birds: Child had her picture taken with a parrot--it was meant to be on her hand, but it used its beak to climb right up on top of her head. Twice. There were some funny pics in there of her reacting...
--Eels: Man, these things are even creepier live in the ocean than they are in aquariums. They kind of make me shudder. But still, cool to see.
--Lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of tropical fish, while snorkeling. Every kind you can imagine, pretty much. Child even saw a little octopus!
--Hawaiian monk seals: Okay, this one was in the Honolulu aquarium. Cheating. Still, Child had read a book about them, so she was thrilled.
--Chickens and roosters: are everywhere on Oahu, running wild. EVERYWHERE.
--Wild goats
--Marmots
The animals turned out to be the focus of the trip! Well, aside from the sun and the ocean.
Hope you're staying warm where you are! (It was 6 degrees F here this morning, but I am still basking in the memory of Hawaiian sun.)
Aloha!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Incarnate Theater Treasure Hunt
As I am a HUGE fan of Jodi Meadow's INCARNATE, I am so happy to be participating in the:
And I am so excited to show you the trailer for Incarnate!
Now head on to the other bloggers participating in the Treasure Hunt:
Esther's Ever After
365 Days of Reading
Literary Exploration
Welcome to the INCARNATE Theater Treasure Hunt!
This week, 48 bloggers are celebrating the release of INCARNATE by Jodi Meadows by participating in a treasure hunt with clues, activities, and lots of prizes including signed books (!) and handknit fingerless mitts (you want both of these). You've reached a CLUE blog, which means somewhere on this page is a clue to finding the hidden page and grand prize entry form on Jodi's website. Follow 26 clues to get there!
For more information on the INCARNATE Theater Treasure Hunt, check out Jodi's post. And look at my picture!!
 |
| Hee! I LOVE this one! Can you tell what's going on here? :) |
My clue for the password is: Second word: t
Now head on to the other bloggers participating in the Treasure Hunt:
365 Days of Reading
Literary Exploration
Thursday, January 19, 2012
What kind of a post is this, anyway?
This is what I think about when considering my blog these days.
Oooh, I wish I could talk about secret stuff that happened!
No. Can't talk about that yet. Drat. Well, that's past anyway. I REALLY want to talk about secret stuff that's going on now.
*sigh* No. Oh, I know. I can talk about what I'm working on! It's super secret and all that.
*stares at blog*
*doesn't blog*
Yeah. Let's see. Erm...I'm going to Hawaii next week with my family! Yes, I can say that! And...um, we've got winter again here, so it's really cold...hence the Hawaii...
Man. I'm just going to show you pictures of fuzzy kittens.
And this little guy.
And...I don't know how he got in here, but let's go with it.
Oooh, I wish I could talk about secret stuff that happened!
No. Can't talk about that yet. Drat. Well, that's past anyway. I REALLY want to talk about secret stuff that's going on now.
*sigh* No. Oh, I know. I can talk about what I'm working on! It's super secret and all that.
*stares at blog*
*doesn't blog*
Yeah. Let's see. Erm...I'm going to Hawaii next week with my family! Yes, I can say that! And...um, we've got winter again here, so it's really cold...hence the Hawaii...
Man. I'm just going to show you pictures of fuzzy kittens.
And this little guy.
And...I don't know how he got in here, but let's go with it.
Monday, January 09, 2012
Why I Love Twitter
There's a lot of mockery out there about Twitter. Talk show hosts have sarcastic bits about tweets, making us Twitter-users sound ridiculous. People who don't really understand it relate celebrity tweets with scorn (or, equally bad, with awe). My husband thinks it's a complete waste of time.
Okay, yes, it can absolutely suck up time and energy that you should probably devote to something else, if you let it get out of hand. But as a working writer, as long as I tweet with a sense of balance, it is SO not a waste.
Here's what I get from being an active, thoughtful participant on Twitter:
So there, doubters. Did I convince anyone, or were you all convinced already? If you want to check it out, I'm at @susan_adrian. See you there. #TwitterRocks
Okay, yes, it can absolutely suck up time and energy that you should probably devote to something else, if you let it get out of hand. But as a working writer, as long as I tweet with a sense of balance, it is SO not a waste.
Here's what I get from being an active, thoughtful participant on Twitter:
- A crazy-wonderful sense of community. I have different groups for friends, YA writers, agents, and editors. I can post about writer struggles and talk to people who UNDERSTAND, real-time. While I love the people in my real life, they just don't get most of those struggles. Or joys, for that matter. On Twitter, you can post that you finished a rough draft and friends will celebrate with you!
- A bonanza of information as a reader. Daily I see new books I want to read, or reviews of books, and find new (or seasoned) authors I want to support. Half that stuff I'd never know about without poring through a hundred blogs. I don't really have the kind of time you need for blogs. But with Twitter I can dip in and out, and find out what I need.
- Connections. I am VERY anti-schmooze, and I would never (ever ever ever) connect with someone for what they can do for me. But my friends on Twitter have helped me tremendously in this whole publishing process, in ways I couldn't have even imagined. And usually without my asking. (Twitter peeps, you are amazing!)
- Crowd-sourcing for information. Whether you need to know which show to go to in NYC or which office supply store has the best service, or you want to hear some new bands, you can Ask. And you will Receive Answers.
- Effecting change. Yes, we don't win them all. But when a strong Twitter community (like the YA lit crowd) sees something Wrong, sometimes we can do something about it.
- FUN and DISTRACTION. Tiara days. Sparkle exchanges. Pun wars. Silly hashtags. It's like joking around with your favorite people whenever you want.
So there, doubters. Did I convince anyone, or were you all convinced already? If you want to check it out, I'm at @susan_adrian. See you there. #TwitterRocks
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Marinating
I'm marinating.
It's the best word I have for that period between books, soaking up ideas, letting everything meld together until it's ready. Or steeping, maybe. I'm waiting for some things on Happy Sauce, so I can't do anything with it, and it's not the right time to work on the (possible) sequel. To keep active, I'm brainstorming something Entirely Different. I've got the basics of the idea, but I'm not ready to put fingers to keyboard quite yet. I'm pondering the situation and the characters, doing research, working out the kinks in my head. Reading, watching movies, absorbing ideas and thoughts and what I want. Usually I do this for a while until I'm so ready I'm bursting with it--I HAVE to go to the page.
It feels slow, though. It feels unproductive, after the rush of sending something out. But I have to remember that it's an important part of my process.
And it's fitting, I suppose, with all the waiting and drip-drip-drip of time during this week between Christmas and New Year's. Fortunately I'm getting lots of good reading in.
I know many of my writer friends are spending this time frantically doing edits or copyedits. What are YOU up to this week?
If I don't talk to you before this weekend, hope you have a WONDERFUL New Year's. May 2012 be happy and productive for you!
It's the best word I have for that period between books, soaking up ideas, letting everything meld together until it's ready. Or steeping, maybe. I'm waiting for some things on Happy Sauce, so I can't do anything with it, and it's not the right time to work on the (possible) sequel. To keep active, I'm brainstorming something Entirely Different. I've got the basics of the idea, but I'm not ready to put fingers to keyboard quite yet. I'm pondering the situation and the characters, doing research, working out the kinks in my head. Reading, watching movies, absorbing ideas and thoughts and what I want. Usually I do this for a while until I'm so ready I'm bursting with it--I HAVE to go to the page.
It feels slow, though. It feels unproductive, after the rush of sending something out. But I have to remember that it's an important part of my process.
And it's fitting, I suppose, with all the waiting and drip-drip-drip of time during this week between Christmas and New Year's. Fortunately I'm getting lots of good reading in.
I know many of my writer friends are spending this time frantically doing edits or copyedits. What are YOU up to this week?
If I don't talk to you before this weekend, hope you have a WONDERFUL New Year's. May 2012 be happy and productive for you!
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