Monthly Archives: July 2010

Whether you’re writing the great American novel or simply working on a short story, any artistic undertaking requires huge amounts of emotional and mental energy. That’s why it’s so important to recharge your creative batteries. Daydreaming – setting yourself adrift … Continue reading →

“Creativity is a habit. And the best creativity is the result of good work habits.” Twyla Tharp Consistently creative. Creatively consistent. I debated between these two headlines, but in the end, I don’t think it matters. The message is really … Continue reading →

“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.” Dolly Parton Who among us doesn’t long for blue skies and rainbows? And who among us hasn’t had to cope with rainy days, … Continue reading →

OK, I have a confession to make. I went to a panel discussion called “Writers on Writing” at a major bookstore chain – the theme was Mark Twain. His eagerly awaited autobiography is about to come out and it sounds … Continue reading →

I was once lucky enough to hear someone who had spent many years in service with Mother Teresa talk about how she overcame unbelievable obstacles through the power of her faith. She was fond of referring to herself as a … Continue reading →

My son Alex is an enthusiastic cyclist and the annual Tour de France is a much-loved sporting event at our house. It lasts for about three weeks in July and ends in the heart of Paris. Along the way, there … Continue reading →

I’ve had a couple of great book parties and they were lots of fun. I know one woman who was so thrilled to finally see her book in print that she threw a huge bash for friends and family – … Continue reading →

“It’s never crowded on the extra mile.” Nike Ad Just recently, a great opportunity came up that required me to make a decision about simply satisfying someone’s request or going beyond it. Here’s what happened: I emailed a columnist at … Continue reading →

Whenever you have a chance to hear an agent or publisher speak, grab it! There’s nothing like getting the insider’s view of what it takes to bring a book out in today’s market. That’s why my intrepid friend and fellow … Continue reading →

I just read that the Stieg Larrson series has sold 40 million copies worldwide. Amazing, isn’t it? And so encouraging! People still are reading books after all – lots of them. I also learned that the book that started it … Continue reading →