Celebrate Thanksgiving Day tomorrow with a song that’s sure to stick in your mind all day!
You are welcome.
Fun Wednesday – Nov. 26, 2025
Blog
The Unintentionally Funny Headline
Years ago, I came across the following headline in a publisher-related newsletter: Speculative Authors Fight Mental Illness I thought to myself, I know what they meant by the headline, but could it also be interpreted that authors who write speculative fiction are mentally ill? Some call science fiction and fantasy writers “weird,” but this headline was going too far. So I clicked the …
Fun Fridays – November 21, 2025
Until today’s video, I never even thought about how rubber bands are made. Now we all know. AND we must sing along with the 1976 song posted below this one —it is required. You owe it to yourself, since it might make you smile. [If you cannot view the videos in the email newsletter, click through to the website and watch them there.]
The Section Most Often Omitted in a Book Proposal
When I receive proposals from authors new to me, they often omit the “Comparables” segment. I understand that authors may not be aware this section is needed, or that including it may seem like fluff. However, this portion is an essential piece of the proposal puzzle for editors and agents as we consider an author’s work. What do I need to include in my overall proposal? First, to be sure your …
There Is Power in Possibility
The publishing industry can be a challenge for someone with artistic sensibilities. The psyche can be worn down by disappointment, bad reviews, poor sales, and rejection by agents and editors. To be resilient in the face of such disillusion is a quality to be desired. Contemplate this quote from Søren Kierkegaard (Danish philosopher and theologian, 1813-1855) in his book Either/Or: “If I were to …
Fun Fridays – November 14, 2025
Today’s video is an oldie, but a goodie. Is it a metaphor for the writing life? If so, explain in the comments below. Who is whom or what according to your allegory? [Can’t see the video in your newsletter? Please click through to the site to watch.]
Writing in the End-Times
Biblically speaking, we are living in the last days, and have been for almost two thousand years. But we are closer than ever to the return of Christ, and it seems to me the music is growing louder. Since only God the Father knows the day and time of Christ’s return, we have no idea when; however, we may see signs. In Luke’s Gospel, we read what Jesus said about knowing what is to come: He said to …
Crafting Dialogue That Resonates (Part 2)
In last month’s post, I talked about how every line of dialogue should serve a purpose: revealing character, advancing the plot, building tension, or deepening theme. I also explored voice, subtext, and how to balance dialogue with internal thought and action. Today, I’m taking it a step further. Let’s look at five additional ways to elevate your dialogue, so it not only sounds real but …
Veterans Day
Today is a special day in the United States when we honor our veterans. It is our opportunity to thank and celebrate all those who have served our country in military service. Thank you for your service! A few years ago, Andrew Budek-Schmeisser posted these great words; and we are reposting them, like we have done previously, with his permission. They are perfect for this day. They did not have …
Fun Fridays – November 7, 2025
All writers and teachers of writing should get a kick out of today’s video. Wait for it … [If you cannot see the video in your newsletter, please click through to the website where you can watch.]