Winnie-the-Pooh was the name for a black bear called Winnie. The name was short for Winnipeg, my hometown. And get this – Winnie was a GIRL! Here’s the scoop: During the First World War, troops from Winnipeg (Manitoba, Canada) were being transported across Canada on their way to Europe. When the train stopped at White […]
Tag Archives: #books
Resources for Writers
Writing fiction is an ever-evolving challenge. Here are a few of the ones I use. Professional Associations Professional Associations are a great way to meet other writers. They offer conferences and classes to improve your writing and opportunities to hear best selling authors. You can find critique groups, writing contests, meet agents and editors. International […]
Unlocking Your Novel’s Genre: 4 Foolproof Methods
Why is genre important? Readers use genre to find a book because it gives them an idea of what will be in it. Defining genre has been a challenge for me. My main character is eighteen years old and in college, so my novel doesn’t fit into the young adult category. I have some suspense, […]
Bouchercon – The World Mystery Convention
Bouchercon, pronounced [bough’•chur•con] is the World Mystery Convention. It’s the premier event for readers, writers, publishers, editors, agents, book reviewers, and booksellers. Bouchercon originated in 1970 to honor Anthony Boucher, the renowned mystery fiction critic, editor, and author. This year, the convention was held in St. Petersburg, Florida. I figured it would be the perfect opportunity […]
Beginner’s Guide to Naming Novel Characters
What’s in a name? I once met a very hostile woman who was pregnant and planning to name her daughter Molly. I was pregnant also and considering baby names so I went home and looked up the meaning. My baby book told […]
Can Podcasting help authors?
Helping people live their true passion is Jaime (“Jemmy”) Legagneur’s mission, and she has found no more powerful tool than podcasting. By interviewing movers and shakers on her ‘Curve the Cube’ show, she offers real actionable nuggets to inspire others to go from being dreamers to being doers! Jamie co-hosts two other shows, is the […]
6 Requirements of a Great Writer’s Critique Group
Writing a novel is an arduous task that requires removing many layers of chaff to get to the core of good story telling. A critique group is something no beginning writer should be without. Your critique group can help you with resources like writing conferences, professional organizations and writing coaches. You can share the highs […]