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SEE AUTHORS COLUMN, THEN CLICK ALL AUTHORS TO GET A LISTING OF AUTHORS ON OUR NETWORK. Then click the author you'd like more info about. Authors - you can send a jpeg or two plus a blurb and order info to morgan@morganmandel.com & use ADD AUTHOR for the subject line & I'll put it up. Enjoy!
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Free advertising is the best kind!
Good Morning All, and thank you again to Morgan for asking me to fill in for her. (Big wave Morgan!)
I am fortunate enough to work at Oakton Community College where they are really proud of accomplishments made by anyone in the Oakton family, including me, a lowly staff person.
When I became a published author, and yes I still get a chill when I say that, my fellow co-workers were, and still are, very supportive. As a matter of fact, the college itself is very supportive and as proof they interviewed me for the college magazine.
Now when they asked me if they could interview me I said, YES! How neat that they are interested in me and my little book, but in the back of my mind I was cheering, yay, free advertising. And let me tell you, the word spread like wildfire. I had more people coming up to me wishing me congratulations and the book had been out for four months! I noticed an increase in hits on my website and an increase in interest in publishing itself. Which although I am published through a small press, I’m amazed that I actually know the answers to some of there questions.
Of course we all know there are many avenues one can take to advertise their books, we have paid ads, book signings, mailings, etc, but I think that free advertising is the way to go, and you know what? The price is totally right!
If you are interested in reading the article here is the on link: http://www.oakton.edu/outlook6.pdf
June
www.junesproat.com
I am fortunate enough to work at Oakton Community College where they are really proud of accomplishments made by anyone in the Oakton family, including me, a lowly staff person.
When I became a published author, and yes I still get a chill when I say that, my fellow co-workers were, and still are, very supportive. As a matter of fact, the college itself is very supportive and as proof they interviewed me for the college magazine.
Now when they asked me if they could interview me I said, YES! How neat that they are interested in me and my little book, but in the back of my mind I was cheering, yay, free advertising. And let me tell you, the word spread like wildfire. I had more people coming up to me wishing me congratulations and the book had been out for four months! I noticed an increase in hits on my website and an increase in interest in publishing itself. Which although I am published through a small press, I’m amazed that I actually know the answers to some of there questions.
Of course we all know there are many avenues one can take to advertise their books, we have paid ads, book signings, mailings, etc, but I think that free advertising is the way to go, and you know what? The price is totally right!
If you are interested in reading the article here is the on link: http://www.oakton.edu/outlook6.pdf
June
www.junesproat.com
JUNE IS BACK
June will be blogging for me today as I rush getting out the door for a mini-vacation. Just a reminder, if you're almost 60 or over, come on over and join http://sixtyandsavvy.ning.com
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
Why we do what we do
Have you ever stopped and asked yourself why it is that you do what you do? I'm not just talking about work, although that would be a good place to start. Sure we tend to work because we need to pay our bills but why do you work where you work? Why do you do the kind of work that you do? Was it your only choice? Is it still your only choice?
When I was in grad school at UC Santa Barbara after serving two tours in the Republic of South Korea, I met quite a few other grad students who came from foreign countries to include many from Europe. One day, in between classes, I was sitting with some of the foreign students and we were sharing our experiences of living in a foreign country. An observation made by one of the foreign students was - "Americans live to work. In Europe we work to live."
Now this can be taken many ways but whenever I reflect on this conversation I come to appreicate it more and more as true. Look around and you'll see many people in jobs they don't enjoy. I mean really, really don't enjoy. There are days I don't enjoy my job - IT support for a government agency - especially when people yell at me and expect the moon, but overall I really like and enjoy my job. It's challenging, it's mentally and physically stimulating and it's more than just job security. I'm very happy about that, but my job is just part of who I am, albeit a large part of my life and certainly impacts on how I experience other parts of my life. Still, I'm finally beginning to feel the shift from living to work, to working to live.
I just returned from a run. It's my short run for the week, 3 1/2 miles, but it ended up being a very difficult run for me. My asthma has been acting up for the past week and this is my biggest challenge to running. I grew up in Los Angeles and it's not until I moved to Chicago after leaving the army that I developed chronic asthma. Guess I'm better off when I can see the air I'm breathing! Anyway, getting oxygen into my system to motiviate my leg muscles to work is a real challenge when I'm wheezing. Oh, I use my inhaler 20 minutes before -and on this run I had to use it during the run - and I'm on several different medications to help me breathe and prevent my asthma from acting up, but act up it does.
I have allergy-induced asthma and whenever the weather changes I tend to have a reaction. Most days it's more than manageable but today and for the past several days, my asthma has been gallantly trying to interfer with my running progress. So, you might ask - why do I even run in the first place! I mean one bad asthma attack and I'm a goner, and believe me there have been days when I've really struggled to breathe. I remember one day at work, my co-worker told me that I looked just plain grey. I was struggling to breathe and I went home early. The next morning I went in late not having slept very well the night before. When she saw me she almost hugged me. She said she had been very worried when I was late because the night before a friend of hers - much younger than me - had died in his sleep from an asthma attack.
So, why do I run? Well, I do like to challenge myself but I take my asthma very seriously. I pace myself based on how I feel and I've even cut some runs short because I listen to my body and even though I'm use to pushing myself beyond what I think my limits are (you can take the girl out of the army, but you can't take the army out of the girl!) I don't mess with my asthma.
My long run for the week is usually on a Sunday morning. Mornings are better, especially a Sunday morning, because few cars have been out and the air is the most pollutant free and less dense than it is later on in the day. Two weeks ago I ran 7 strong miles but this past Sunday I had to cut my run short only logging 5 1/2 miles. For folks who don't run, you're probably thinking, "That's great!" but I'm prepping for the Chicago Half-Marathon and I want to get my long run as close to 10 miles as I can. I ran this race in 2006 and I know I can finish it but in 2006 when I ran the race it was two weeks shy of my one-year anniversary from a radical hysterectomy. Still, I ran 8 1/2 miles before I had to walk/run and finished in just over three hours. This time I want to get as close to 2 1/2 hours as I can.
So, what's the point to all this? The point is to answer the question - why do we do what we do? I run because I can and because given all that I've shared in this blog, it's a challenge for me. The fact that I can challenge myself against certain odds while still preserving my well-being is quite rewarding and makes me appreicate each and every day that I am alive and doing well. I run because it helps me not take anything for granted - not my health, not my freedom, not anything. My aches and pains are real but I know which ones are temporary and which ones are warning signs. It's because I run and challenge myself that I'm able to be this aware of myself, my health, my body and my surroundings.
I am also a writer. I have published non-fiction works but I will soon be submitting my first novel to a publisher for consideration. I have been working on this novel for more than four years. I'm in what I feel is that last major rewrite and I'm on page 205 of a 260 page novel. I'm ecsatatic! Don't know if it will actually be published but I'm very satisfied with my efforts. I've learned so much in the process about writing in general and about myself.
I write and run because I can. I write and run because I can't imagine not doing either of these things. I write and run because to stop now would be akin to a part of me dying. I write and run because I want to continue to learn about who I am for the rest of my life.
That's why I do what I do.
When I was in grad school at UC Santa Barbara after serving two tours in the Republic of South Korea, I met quite a few other grad students who came from foreign countries to include many from Europe. One day, in between classes, I was sitting with some of the foreign students and we were sharing our experiences of living in a foreign country. An observation made by one of the foreign students was - "Americans live to work. In Europe we work to live."
Now this can be taken many ways but whenever I reflect on this conversation I come to appreicate it more and more as true. Look around and you'll see many people in jobs they don't enjoy. I mean really, really don't enjoy. There are days I don't enjoy my job - IT support for a government agency - especially when people yell at me and expect the moon, but overall I really like and enjoy my job. It's challenging, it's mentally and physically stimulating and it's more than just job security. I'm very happy about that, but my job is just part of who I am, albeit a large part of my life and certainly impacts on how I experience other parts of my life. Still, I'm finally beginning to feel the shift from living to work, to working to live.
I just returned from a run. It's my short run for the week, 3 1/2 miles, but it ended up being a very difficult run for me. My asthma has been acting up for the past week and this is my biggest challenge to running. I grew up in Los Angeles and it's not until I moved to Chicago after leaving the army that I developed chronic asthma. Guess I'm better off when I can see the air I'm breathing! Anyway, getting oxygen into my system to motiviate my leg muscles to work is a real challenge when I'm wheezing. Oh, I use my inhaler 20 minutes before -and on this run I had to use it during the run - and I'm on several different medications to help me breathe and prevent my asthma from acting up, but act up it does.
I have allergy-induced asthma and whenever the weather changes I tend to have a reaction. Most days it's more than manageable but today and for the past several days, my asthma has been gallantly trying to interfer with my running progress. So, you might ask - why do I even run in the first place! I mean one bad asthma attack and I'm a goner, and believe me there have been days when I've really struggled to breathe. I remember one day at work, my co-worker told me that I looked just plain grey. I was struggling to breathe and I went home early. The next morning I went in late not having slept very well the night before. When she saw me she almost hugged me. She said she had been very worried when I was late because the night before a friend of hers - much younger than me - had died in his sleep from an asthma attack.
So, why do I run? Well, I do like to challenge myself but I take my asthma very seriously. I pace myself based on how I feel and I've even cut some runs short because I listen to my body and even though I'm use to pushing myself beyond what I think my limits are (you can take the girl out of the army, but you can't take the army out of the girl!) I don't mess with my asthma.
My long run for the week is usually on a Sunday morning. Mornings are better, especially a Sunday morning, because few cars have been out and the air is the most pollutant free and less dense than it is later on in the day. Two weeks ago I ran 7 strong miles but this past Sunday I had to cut my run short only logging 5 1/2 miles. For folks who don't run, you're probably thinking, "That's great!" but I'm prepping for the Chicago Half-Marathon and I want to get my long run as close to 10 miles as I can. I ran this race in 2006 and I know I can finish it but in 2006 when I ran the race it was two weeks shy of my one-year anniversary from a radical hysterectomy. Still, I ran 8 1/2 miles before I had to walk/run and finished in just over three hours. This time I want to get as close to 2 1/2 hours as I can.
So, what's the point to all this? The point is to answer the question - why do we do what we do? I run because I can and because given all that I've shared in this blog, it's a challenge for me. The fact that I can challenge myself against certain odds while still preserving my well-being is quite rewarding and makes me appreicate each and every day that I am alive and doing well. I run because it helps me not take anything for granted - not my health, not my freedom, not anything. My aches and pains are real but I know which ones are temporary and which ones are warning signs. It's because I run and challenge myself that I'm able to be this aware of myself, my health, my body and my surroundings.
I am also a writer. I have published non-fiction works but I will soon be submitting my first novel to a publisher for consideration. I have been working on this novel for more than four years. I'm in what I feel is that last major rewrite and I'm on page 205 of a 260 page novel. I'm ecsatatic! Don't know if it will actually be published but I'm very satisfied with my efforts. I've learned so much in the process about writing in general and about myself.
I write and run because I can. I write and run because I can't imagine not doing either of these things. I write and run because to stop now would be akin to a part of me dying. I write and run because I want to continue to learn about who I am for the rest of my life.
That's why I do what I do.
Way Up Northbrook
I kept driving and driving ... past the Hinsdale Oasis ... past O'Hare ... past the exit for Wheeling ... past a deer carcass on the side of the road ... and then, just before bonking my head on Wisconsin, there it was ... the Lake Cook Road exit.
I drove past it by mistake because I was checking out the fine mini-van driving next to me.
Yeah, mini-van. A real man's vehicle, right?
Not really. What really happened was I was checking out the tanned, halter-topped young lady who was riding a bright yellow crotch rocket in the middle lane, causing all kinds of swerving and stuff from the guy drivers all around trying to keep two eyes on her and a third eye on the road.
Anyway, I lied, I ripped my eyes away from her at the last minute and didn't miss my exit.
So I took the exit to really, really, really North Brook (they laughingly spell it Northbrook) and as I drove on Lake Cook road, I looked at Lake County on my left and Cook County on my right, wondering where they came up with the name Lake Cook road.
Then I drove to the huge Borders Books at the corner of Waukegan and Lake Cook and went inside to my booksigning.
Not really. Actually, I drove past the huge Borders Books and a minute later pulled in the parking lot of Max and Benny's , a popular restaurant, deli, bakery with an awesome reputation and food that lives up to it.
Yep, my first signing in a restaurant.
Five of my fellow authors from the anthology, The Heat of the Moment had assembled to eagle, er, hawk the anthology and our own individual books. Joining me were fellow Acme blogger Margot Justes, Bob Goldsborough, Amy Alessio (congrats on the baby, Amy!), Kevin (I'm a fireman, buy my book) Helmold, Christine ... um, Ver ... Verstra... uh...
(wait, I need to look it up)
Here ya' go, Chris Verstraete. I knew it all the time. Yeah, and I wasn't looking at the girl on the crotch rocket.
Anyway, we were all here for our first ever booksigning at a restaurant.
Whoo-hoo!
We were excited ... all pumped up... ready to risk carpel tunnel, dried out ink pens and clumsy busboys.
But I'm not going to lie. The crowd was less than overwhelming. I mean, the staff at the restaurant was very gracious and supportive. They put copies of our books in the front along with an author or two (Kevin, Bob and I took turns), and they let us use their public address system ... I doubt they'll let me do it again in the future ... heh, heh.
But having a signing at the hours 3-5 pm on a Saturday just wasn't conducive to having a large number of people. The few that came to eat were pleasantly surprised to learn that six authors were in the building, but again, there weren't many there then.
The owner came by and remarked that it was not the busiest time to sign, and wondered why we had picked a slow time (actually, one of his managers did - but beggars can't be rich, er, choosers).
Anyway, we had a great time. Bob, Margot, Kevin, Amy and I have had a few joint signings together, and it was fantastic to finally meet Chris. Margot's family came out to support her, and they are cool, not just fantastically good looking and intelligent. We all like each other so it was worth doing.
So I'm sure we'll find somewhere else to sign, be it Canada, er, Wisconsin, I mean, Northbrook or wherever.
Plus, there are rumors that there will soon be another anthology ... stay tuned!
Norm
www.normcowie.com
The Adventures of Guy ... written by a guy (probably)
The Next Adventures of Guy ...more wackiness
The Heat of the Moment
Fang Face (my first YA! coming Aug 2009)
I drove past it by mistake because I was checking out the fine mini-van driving next to me.
Yeah, mini-van. A real man's vehicle, right?
Not really. What really happened was I was checking out the tanned, halter-topped young lady who was riding a bright yellow crotch rocket in the middle lane, causing all kinds of swerving and stuff from the guy drivers all around trying to keep two eyes on her and a third eye on the road.
Anyway, I lied, I ripped my eyes away from her at the last minute and didn't miss my exit.
So I took the exit to really, really, really North Brook (they laughingly spell it Northbrook) and as I drove on Lake Cook road, I looked at Lake County on my left and Cook County on my right, wondering where they came up with the name Lake Cook road.
Then I drove to the huge Borders Books at the corner of Waukegan and Lake Cook and went inside to my booksigning.
Not really. Actually, I drove past the huge Borders Books and a minute later pulled in the parking lot of Max and Benny's , a popular restaurant, deli, bakery with an awesome reputation and food that lives up to it.
Yep, my first signing in a restaurant.
Five of my fellow authors from the anthology, The Heat of the Moment had assembled to eagle, er, hawk the anthology and our own individual books. Joining me were fellow Acme blogger Margot Justes, Bob Goldsborough, Amy Alessio (congrats on the baby, Amy!), Kevin (I'm a fireman, buy my book) Helmold, Christine ... um, Ver ... Verstra... uh...
(wait, I need to look it up)
Here ya' go, Chris Verstraete. I knew it all the time. Yeah, and I wasn't looking at the girl on the crotch rocket.
Anyway, we were all here for our first ever booksigning at a restaurant.
Whoo-hoo!
We were excited ... all pumped up... ready to risk carpel tunnel, dried out ink pens and clumsy busboys.
But I'm not going to lie. The crowd was less than overwhelming. I mean, the staff at the restaurant was very gracious and supportive. They put copies of our books in the front along with an author or two (Kevin, Bob and I took turns), and they let us use their public address system ... I doubt they'll let me do it again in the future ... heh, heh.
But having a signing at the hours 3-5 pm on a Saturday just wasn't conducive to having a large number of people. The few that came to eat were pleasantly surprised to learn that six authors were in the building, but again, there weren't many there then.
The owner came by and remarked that it was not the busiest time to sign, and wondered why we had picked a slow time (actually, one of his managers did - but beggars can't be rich, er, choosers).
Anyway, we had a great time. Bob, Margot, Kevin, Amy and I have had a few joint signings together, and it was fantastic to finally meet Chris. Margot's family came out to support her, and they are cool, not just fantastically good looking and intelligent. We all like each other so it was worth doing.
So I'm sure we'll find somewhere else to sign, be it Canada, er, Wisconsin, I mean, Northbrook or wherever.
Plus, there are rumors that there will soon be another anthology ... stay tuned!
Norm
www.normcowie.com
The Adventures of Guy ... written by a guy (probably)
The Next Adventures of Guy ...more wackiness
The Heat of the Moment
Fang Face (my first YA! coming Aug 2009)
A Galaxy Far, Far Away
Okay, I'll admit it. I'm a self-proclaimed Star Wars geek. I've loved anything and everything Star Wars since I was a little girl. Movies, music, books... In my neighborhood growing up we'd play Star Wars and even did a play once. I am of the generation who was lucky enough to enjoy the original trilogy as a child and all these years later am enjoying the newest trilogy as an adult. And I can't wait for the Pixar movie next month.
I know obscure character and place names, and never fail to get a head shake and a sigh from my husband when I fill him in on more details than he ever cares to know when we're watching an episode. ("How do you KNOW all this stuff?") No one will play Star Wars trivia with me. ("It's not fair, you always win.") And I can carry on a conversation with any given third, fourth, or fifth grader about the Clone Wars.
I not only read the books that tell the stories of the movies and other events beyond, but I read all of the "behind the scenes" stuff, too. I am one of those people who think George Lucas is one of the most brilliant, creative minds on the planet (or any galaxy far, far away). I recently picked up a book about the making of the original Star Wars movie. The one that came out in 1977 and was simply called "Star Wars", but has now earned the moniker "Episode IV - A New Hope".
The book is fasinating. (Although the small print did give me a migraine the other day when I was trying to read it without my contacts.) What truly amazes me is the insight it gives about George Lucas as a writer. Now I assumed that creative ideas would pour out of him and he would barely be able to keep up with them to write them down. Not always the case. There were days when he would stare at the blank piece of paper (he hand writes all of his first drafts) in front of him and not write anything for hours at a time. Sometimes he didn't finish drafts when he thought he would and had to ask for more time. Story concepts and characters changed numerous times, and drastically so. And, he had a hard time selling the story concept to the studios.
Hmnn? This is sounding familiar. I guess all writers, no matter what level of fame or success they have achieved, or have yet to achieve, go through fundamentally the same struggles.
So as a Star Wars fan, this book has been an extremely interesting read. But as a writer, it's been even more fun to discover that I have something in common with George Lucas. (Now if only our bank accounts had similar balances...life would be even more grand!)
And while George can say he has a new Star Wars movie coming out next MONTH, I can say I have a new book coming out next WEEK. ("This Time for Always" will have its electronic release on July 30 - so be sure to check it out! By buying a copy you'll be entered for the chance to win a SONY eReader from The Wild Rose Press.)
Until then, May the Force be with you.
Debra
THIS TIME FOR ALWAYS
by Debra St. John
coming this summer from
The Wild Rose Press
electronic release 7/30/08
print release 8/29/08
www.debrastjohnromance.com
I know obscure character and place names, and never fail to get a head shake and a sigh from my husband when I fill him in on more details than he ever cares to know when we're watching an episode. ("How do you KNOW all this stuff?") No one will play Star Wars trivia with me. ("It's not fair, you always win.") And I can carry on a conversation with any given third, fourth, or fifth grader about the Clone Wars.
I not only read the books that tell the stories of the movies and other events beyond, but I read all of the "behind the scenes" stuff, too. I am one of those people who think George Lucas is one of the most brilliant, creative minds on the planet (or any galaxy far, far away). I recently picked up a book about the making of the original Star Wars movie. The one that came out in 1977 and was simply called "Star Wars", but has now earned the moniker "Episode IV - A New Hope".
The book is fasinating. (Although the small print did give me a migraine the other day when I was trying to read it without my contacts.) What truly amazes me is the insight it gives about George Lucas as a writer. Now I assumed that creative ideas would pour out of him and he would barely be able to keep up with them to write them down. Not always the case. There were days when he would stare at the blank piece of paper (he hand writes all of his first drafts) in front of him and not write anything for hours at a time. Sometimes he didn't finish drafts when he thought he would and had to ask for more time. Story concepts and characters changed numerous times, and drastically so. And, he had a hard time selling the story concept to the studios.
Hmnn? This is sounding familiar. I guess all writers, no matter what level of fame or success they have achieved, or have yet to achieve, go through fundamentally the same struggles.
So as a Star Wars fan, this book has been an extremely interesting read. But as a writer, it's been even more fun to discover that I have something in common with George Lucas. (Now if only our bank accounts had similar balances...life would be even more grand!)
And while George can say he has a new Star Wars movie coming out next MONTH, I can say I have a new book coming out next WEEK. ("This Time for Always" will have its electronic release on July 30 - so be sure to check it out! By buying a copy you'll be entered for the chance to win a SONY eReader from The Wild Rose Press.)
Until then, May the Force be with you.
Debra
THIS TIME FOR ALWAYS
by Debra St. John
coming this summer from
The Wild Rose Press
electronic release 7/30/08
print release 8/29/08
www.debrastjohnromance.com
Your BOOK PLACE Box
SIXTY AND SAVVY - IF YOU'RE NEAR OR OVER 60, JOIN MY NEW NETWORK and share memories photos, fads, fun!!!
http://sixtyandsavvy.ning.com
JULY NEWSLETTER IS UP AT WWW.MORGANMANDEL.COM ON THE MAIN PAGE - PLEASE CHECK IT OUT!!
ALSO, CHECK OUT THE NEW QUICK ADD FEATURE on your profile pages under the Sign in and Friends....
I'm going to be highlighting various members at random on the members page, so check it out every once in a while - you might be on it!
NEW MORGAN MANDEL INTERVIEW AT: http://tjbook-list.blogspot.com/2008/07/interview-with-author-morgan-mandel.html
http://sixtyandsavvy.ning.com
JULY NEWSLETTER IS UP AT WWW.MORGANMANDEL.COM ON THE MAIN PAGE - PLEASE CHECK IT OUT!!
ALSO, CHECK OUT THE NEW QUICK ADD FEATURE on your profile pages under the Sign in and Friends....
I'm going to be highlighting various members at random on the members page, so check it out every once in a while - you might be on it!
NEW MORGAN MANDEL INTERVIEW AT: http://tjbook-list.blogspot.com/2008/07/interview-with-author-morgan-mandel.html
Latest Activity
11 hours ago Events
July 30Wednesday
August 17Sunday
August 29Friday
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Decatur Book Festival
August 29, 2008 at 5pm to August 31, 2008 at 6pm – Downtown Decatur Georgia
September 13Saturday
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Book Tour
September 13, 2008 from 1pm to 3pm – Walden Books
Videos
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Insatiable Desire Rita Herron Book Trailer
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FRANCIS RAY THE WAY YOU LOVE ME Book Trailer
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Blog Posts
My first book signing
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY AUTHOR, LYNN TINCHER, RELEASES HER PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER, AFTERTHOUGHTS
Book signing at Carmichael's Bookstore on September 20,2008 at 4:00 PM at the Frankfort Avenue Location.
The voices in your head, are they schizophrenic delusions or a window to another dimension?
Afterthoughts
The First Book in the Mind Bending Series
Lynn Tincher
Mystery/Fiction/Psychological Thriller
ISBN Paperback: 978-0-595-51769-5 (0-595-51769-2)
HC ISBN: 978-0-5995-62160-6 (0-595-62160-0)
PDF E… Continue
Posted by Lynn Tincher on July 23rd, 2008 at 7:00pm —
No Comments (Add)
New Approach to Fiction Manuscript Submissions
This series of articles on the blog "Read It and Weep:"
"Create a Market Survey for Your Fiction Manuscript"
"What You Should Know About the Amazon Sales Rank"
"Using the Amazon Sales Rank"
"Calculateing Book Sales From amazon's Sales Rank,"
you might find interesting and useful. They address the issue of
inculding a "Comparative Book Survey" and a "Market Survey" with your
fiction submissions and how to prepare these sur… Continue
Posted by Bill Stephens on July 23rd, 2008 at 12:45pm —
No Comments (Add)
Lost and Found
Lost and Found
Category: Writing and Poetry
Well, I managed to find myself. On this fine day of my wonderful virtual tour, I'll be at Reading Mama's place. Please drop by and say... anything you want, just please stop by. Here is the link.
http://readingmama.blogspot.com/2008/07/beneath-buried-house.html
Posted by Bob Avey on July 23rd, 2008 at 12:45pm —
No Comments (Add)
Day 13 - Stupid, boring pages and pages of dumb story!
Posted by Kamilla Reid on July 23rd, 2008 at 10:56am —
No Comments (Add)
'A Study in Red' Still Holding Top Spot in Amazon.uk Chart
I'm absolutely delighted to see that 'A Study in Red - The Secret Journal of Jack the Ripper' continues to hold the number 1 slot in the Amazon UK chart which displays all Jack the Ripper books in their catalogue in order of 'best by average customer review.' The listings can be seen at http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/qid=1216816200/ref=sr_st?keywords=jack+the+ripper&rs=266239&page=1&rh=n%3A266239%2Ck%3Ajack+the+ripper&sort=reviewrank
This shows me that the readers are certainly… Continue
Posted by Brian L Porter on July 23rd, 2008 at 7:47am —
No Comments (Add)
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Autism and Writing
I’m not sure how many people are aware of the number of children who have been diagnosed with autism. My first introduction to autistic children was years ago when I taught in a school for child development for pre-schoolers with various developmental disabilities. We didn’t know much about autism at the time, but it was amazing how much they changed as we worked with them. No, not miraculous cures, but they tolerated us more and more and actually started to do the tasks we introduced to them.
One of my great-granddaughters had autistic tendencies and started school in special classes. Now at age 11, she’s in regular classes, does wonderfully well in mathematics, in fact, likes to solve math problems for fun. (Certainly didn’t take after me.) Only once in awhile does anything she does have an autistic quality. Here’s one: She loves track and is doing well. At one of the meets she told her dad, “I’m going to try for third.” Her dad said, “Why don’t you try for first?” “No, I’m going for third.” She is a most loving child, likes to hug and be close, something some autistic kids can’t tolerate.
We had a young teenager who attended our church from time to time who was diagnosed as autistic. He was more difficult, didn’t communicate, and some people were scared of him. There was no need to be scared–he just didn’t want to be bothered. He is now in a group home that specializes in autistic young men and doing quite well.
I helped at Vacation Bible School all week and one of the children who came was a beautiful nine-year-old girl with autism. She loved the songs and dancing that went along with them, sometimes would go on stage with the rest of her class, at other times preferred to remain in the pew. She told me she was a mermaid and then asked, “Do you believe in mermaids?” And of course I told her yes.
Now I’m going to bring this all around to writing. In one of the classes, the kids were supposed to fold paper to make a canoe, she said, “I don’t want to. Can I have a pen?” She was given a pen and wrote a story. It was a darling story about a little girl who was a mermaid–she gave her a name–and a little girl who was autistic–she gave her a name too, but it wasn’t her own. These two girls went on vacation with the family. The story ended like this, “They spent a lot of time in the bathtub.” I asked her why, and she said, “Because one of the girls was a mermaid.”
We talked about writing stories and I told her I was an author and wrote books. She was fascinated. Every time she saw me after that she said, “You’re an author, aren’t you?” “I told her she was one too.”
This child fascinated me and in particular the fact that she could write so well and had such a great imagination. I hope I’ll get to see her again some time.
If you’d like to watch a video taken when I was at the Hanford Library talking about my books, here it is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYf11ShLhKo I had an extremely runny nose that evening.
Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com
One of my great-granddaughters had autistic tendencies and started school in special classes. Now at age 11, she’s in regular classes, does wonderfully well in mathematics, in fact, likes to solve math problems for fun. (Certainly didn’t take after me.) Only once in awhile does anything she does have an autistic quality. Here’s one: She loves track and is doing well. At one of the meets she told her dad, “I’m going to try for third.” Her dad said, “Why don’t you try for first?” “No, I’m going for third.” She is a most loving child, likes to hug and be close, something some autistic kids can’t tolerate.
We had a young teenager who attended our church from time to time who was diagnosed as autistic. He was more difficult, didn’t communicate, and some people were scared of him. There was no need to be scared–he just didn’t want to be bothered. He is now in a group home that specializes in autistic young men and doing quite well.
I helped at Vacation Bible School all week and one of the children who came was a beautiful nine-year-old girl with autism. She loved the songs and dancing that went along with them, sometimes would go on stage with the rest of her class, at other times preferred to remain in the pew. She told me she was a mermaid and then asked, “Do you believe in mermaids?” And of course I told her yes.
Now I’m going to bring this all around to writing. In one of the classes, the kids were supposed to fold paper to make a canoe, she said, “I don’t want to. Can I have a pen?” She was given a pen and wrote a story. It was a darling story about a little girl who was a mermaid–she gave her a name–and a little girl who was autistic–she gave her a name too, but it wasn’t her own. These two girls went on vacation with the family. The story ended like this, “They spent a lot of time in the bathtub.” I asked her why, and she said, “Because one of the girls was a mermaid.”
We talked about writing stories and I told her I was an author and wrote books. She was fascinated. Every time she saw me after that she said, “You’re an author, aren’t you?” “I told her she was one too.”
This child fascinated me and in particular the fact that she could write so well and had such a great imagination. I hope I’ll get to see her again some time.
If you’d like to watch a video taken when I was at the Hanford Library talking about my books, here it is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYf11ShLhKo I had an extremely runny nose that evening.
Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com
ITCH, OUCH, ICK By Morgan Mandel
From the title, can you guess what this blog is about?
If you haven't figured it out, I'll tell you. I'm writing today about those maligned tiny little critters called insects.
My purpose is to make you remember them. Not only that, include them. Where? In your house, car, bed? Not if you can help it. In your book is where they belong.
Think about places, times of day or night, or instances where insects appear. Being summer right now, I can't help but find them everywhere, but they're also around during other seasons. Here are a few common critters you can include in your books, but there are many more:
Flies - They buzz, not only around garbage cans and food, but everywhere. They can get in your mouth if you're not careful.
Maggots - Speaking of garbage cans and flies, maggots are an especially distasteful variation for horror effects.
Bees - They pollenate flowers and make our gardens pretty. They create honey. Those are the good things. They also can sting if you make them mad. If you're allergic to them, you're in real trouble.
Ants - They congregate on sidewalks, in cracks, in the dirt. They crawl around food on picnics. They march into the kitchen and try to take over. Some like to bite.
Mosquitos - I don't have to say much about them. Before you know you're bitten, you're already itching. They carry awful diseases like West Nile, heartworm and others. They make themselves known near standing water, when it's a rainy season, at dusk, too many other times.
Grubs - worms that like to attack plants in your garden.
Caterpillars - They crawl not only in the dirt, but also on sidewalks and up buildings, but can turn into beautiful moths or butterflies.
Moths, butterflies - They're pretty as they flit around, but those naughty moths are known to eat clothes, especially wool.
Grasshoppers - They like to hop around, even inside a person's clothes. One landed in my blouse when I was a kid and it really scared me.
Lady bugs - Harmless looking, cute, usually orange or red with dots. Sometimes they pinch.
Fireflies - They fly around on summer nights and blink, casting quick gorgeous glows, but, like flies, they can get into your mouth when they're not blinking and you don't see them. They're not so pretty up close in daylight.
Roaches - These ugly critters come in many sizes and colors. The good thing about them is you can include them in not only summer scenes, but other seasons indoors. I've heard they get huge in some states like Florida. If you want to describe a scene in a rundown area, they make an excellent addition.
Spiders - Guaranteed to make a reader squirm. Also can be included in any season. In summer, they can be found in the dirt, crawling up buildings, under rocks, almost anywhere you can imagine. Most don't bite, but they're scary anyway, since a lot of us can't tell which do or don't. They crawl inside when it rains. They make cocoons, they settle in unused locations, neglected homes.
You get the idea. In this blog, I've only included a few common insects, but there are a great many more. When you're thinking about adding more dimension to a setting, don't forget these lowly critters.
Do you have other favorites you like to include in your books? You're welcome to respond below.
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
http://bookplace.ning.com
http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/morganmandel
www.juniorscave.com/morganmandel.html
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
If you haven't figured it out, I'll tell you. I'm writing today about those maligned tiny little critters called insects.
My purpose is to make you remember them. Not only that, include them. Where? In your house, car, bed? Not if you can help it. In your book is where they belong.
Think about places, times of day or night, or instances where insects appear. Being summer right now, I can't help but find them everywhere, but they're also around during other seasons. Here are a few common critters you can include in your books, but there are many more:
Flies - They buzz, not only around garbage cans and food, but everywhere. They can get in your mouth if you're not careful.
Maggots - Speaking of garbage cans and flies, maggots are an especially distasteful variation for horror effects.
Bees - They pollenate flowers and make our gardens pretty. They create honey. Those are the good things. They also can sting if you make them mad. If you're allergic to them, you're in real trouble.
Ants - They congregate on sidewalks, in cracks, in the dirt. They crawl around food on picnics. They march into the kitchen and try to take over. Some like to bite.
Mosquitos - I don't have to say much about them. Before you know you're bitten, you're already itching. They carry awful diseases like West Nile, heartworm and others. They make themselves known near standing water, when it's a rainy season, at dusk, too many other times.
Grubs - worms that like to attack plants in your garden.
Caterpillars - They crawl not only in the dirt, but also on sidewalks and up buildings, but can turn into beautiful moths or butterflies.
Moths, butterflies - They're pretty as they flit around, but those naughty moths are known to eat clothes, especially wool.
Grasshoppers - They like to hop around, even inside a person's clothes. One landed in my blouse when I was a kid and it really scared me.
Lady bugs - Harmless looking, cute, usually orange or red with dots. Sometimes they pinch.
Fireflies - They fly around on summer nights and blink, casting quick gorgeous glows, but, like flies, they can get into your mouth when they're not blinking and you don't see them. They're not so pretty up close in daylight.
Roaches - These ugly critters come in many sizes and colors. The good thing about them is you can include them in not only summer scenes, but other seasons indoors. I've heard they get huge in some states like Florida. If you want to describe a scene in a rundown area, they make an excellent addition.
Spiders - Guaranteed to make a reader squirm. Also can be included in any season. In summer, they can be found in the dirt, crawling up buildings, under rocks, almost anywhere you can imagine. Most don't bite, but they're scary anyway, since a lot of us can't tell which do or don't. They crawl inside when it rains. They make cocoons, they settle in unused locations, neglected homes.
You get the idea. In this blog, I've only included a few common insects, but there are a great many more. When you're thinking about adding more dimension to a setting, don't forget these lowly critters.
Do you have other favorites you like to include in your books? You're welcome to respond below.
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
http://bookplace.ning.com
http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/morganmandel
www.juniorscave.com/morganmandel.html
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
Darn, No Ghost Came to Visit
Hubby and I stayed in Room 17 of the Bella Maggiore Bed and Breakfast in Ventura CA because the room is supposed to be haunted. We did not have a ghostly visitor. My daughter looked up the ghost and said it was because the ghost, a prostitute in her former life, only visited men who stayed in the room by themselves. Guess I ruined it.
However, we did have a rather intimate romantic encounter with a real live young man. Room 17 opens on a balcony shared with another larger room. There are no windows in these rooms, only doors that open to the balcony with no screen door and a transom. We were sitting in our room with the door open, when this darling young man popped in to inform us he was having a surprise party for his girlfriend’s birthday at 10 p.m. on our shared balcony complete with music, a Spanish harp and guitar along with a singer. We were invited.
Both of us were tired, but assured our visitor we’d enjoy the music. Of course we had to shut the door and the drapes in order to go to bed, because the chairs and table were only a few feet from our room. At 10 p.m. the music began. It was lovely and very romantic. It was over by 11.
The next day, after we’d had our wonderful breakfast and hubby was transporting our bags to the car, I was sitting on the bed with door open and in pops the young lover. He wanted to know if we’d enjoyed the music, I assured I’m had. I said, “I hope your fiancee appreciates you, not many men are as romantic.” She came out and meet her (cute young thing) and told her that her boyfriend was definitely a keeper. He said, “Thank you.”
From their we went to the Premiere Author event at the Crowne Plaza hotel. Though it was nice, we didn’t have much traffic. The talks about writing and poetry reading were scheduled back-to-back with no time in-between for the attendees to step into the book room. I sold two books and I don’t think anyone else sold more than one. Of course, the organizers realized they’d made a mistake. But it was wonderful to see and smell the ocean air.
From there, we headed to the Bank of Books (bookstore in a former bank) and set up for a talk about mystery writing. This was planned spur of the moment, so didn’t expect much of a turn-out and I was right. Three people came to hear me and we all had fun. We will plan another event, with a bigger lead-in time for the fall.
No matter what, we had a good time. We spent Saturday night in our youngest daughter’s new home, beautiful and huge. Five bathrooms! Can’t imagine having to clean them all. Of course she says my grandchildren are responsible for their own. (Their grown or nearly grown, so it is possible this might happen.)
After a great breakfast, we left the cool temperatures by the ocean and headed back to the hot temperatures of the San Joaquin Valley.
Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com
However, we did have a rather intimate romantic encounter with a real live young man. Room 17 opens on a balcony shared with another larger room. There are no windows in these rooms, only doors that open to the balcony with no screen door and a transom. We were sitting in our room with the door open, when this darling young man popped in to inform us he was having a surprise party for his girlfriend’s birthday at 10 p.m. on our shared balcony complete with music, a Spanish harp and guitar along with a singer. We were invited.
Both of us were tired, but assured our visitor we’d enjoy the music. Of course we had to shut the door and the drapes in order to go to bed, because the chairs and table were only a few feet from our room. At 10 p.m. the music began. It was lovely and very romantic. It was over by 11.
The next day, after we’d had our wonderful breakfast and hubby was transporting our bags to the car, I was sitting on the bed with door open and in pops the young lover. He wanted to know if we’d enjoyed the music, I assured I’m had. I said, “I hope your fiancee appreciates you, not many men are as romantic.” She came out and meet her (cute young thing) and told her that her boyfriend was definitely a keeper. He said, “Thank you.”
From their we went to the Premiere Author event at the Crowne Plaza hotel. Though it was nice, we didn’t have much traffic. The talks about writing and poetry reading were scheduled back-to-back with no time in-between for the attendees to step into the book room. I sold two books and I don’t think anyone else sold more than one. Of course, the organizers realized they’d made a mistake. But it was wonderful to see and smell the ocean air.
From there, we headed to the Bank of Books (bookstore in a former bank) and set up for a talk about mystery writing. This was planned spur of the moment, so didn’t expect much of a turn-out and I was right. Three people came to hear me and we all had fun. We will plan another event, with a bigger lead-in time for the fall.
No matter what, we had a good time. We spent Saturday night in our youngest daughter’s new home, beautiful and huge. Five bathrooms! Can’t imagine having to clean them all. Of course she says my grandchildren are responsible for their own. (Their grown or nearly grown, so it is possible this might happen.)
After a great breakfast, we left the cool temperatures by the ocean and headed back to the hot temperatures of the San Joaquin Valley.
Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com
THE STATE OF PUBLISHING By Morgan Mandel
Everyday we hear about people losing their jobs and companies closing. Gas prices are forcing people out of jobs or into alternate jobs not as far from home.
I'm very lucky. When we went looking for a home over 30 years ago, my husband and I specifically wanted one near the train - mainly because I was not the world's best driver. I'm still not. I just do neighborhood driving on side streets where I feel comfortable. When I grew up in Chicago, I had no need to drive, not with so much public transportation around. Then, after meeting my husband and moving out to the suburbs, I took driving classes. I was already 28 and unfortunately still had some preconceived notions in my head even after getting my license. I don't like busy streets or ones with a lot of lanes. I don't like trying to figure out which light is mine. Anyway, I'm digressing.
Our home is walking distrance from the commuter train, so I walk every day to the train. I walk to my job after I get off the train. So, I'm very lucky. I don't have to worry about buying gas and the train pass price has not gone up much.
Other people are not as fortunate. Not knowing the problems about gas that would happen, they took jobs that require driving distances to get to work, or some are even truck drivers. The gas price problems really hit them.
All along the line, prices are going up. Companies are doing their best to cope with the rise in energy costs and some can't do it.
What does this have to do with books and publishing? Lots. People don't have as much money to buy books. Also, it costs more to mail books. To many people, owning books is considered a luxury. Instead of going to bookstores, they're spending more time at libraries. That can be a good thing if they order in books. Authors and publishers will make sales that way.
I'm not sure where this will leave us midlist authors or the publishing world in general. Will more publishing houses go the POD/print-on-demand route? It makes sense, but old habits die hard.
Ebooks are already catching on with even the large publishing houses. Hopefully, more reader will take advantage of them. At least this way our books and our names are still out there for the general public.
The future remains to be seen. For now, we can only hang on for the ride and hope it doesn't end!
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com
http://bookplace.ning.com
www.myspace.com/morganmandel
www.juniorscave.com/morganmandel.html
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
I'm very lucky. When we went looking for a home over 30 years ago, my husband and I specifically wanted one near the train - mainly because I was not the world's best driver. I'm still not. I just do neighborhood driving on side streets where I feel comfortable. When I grew up in Chicago, I had no need to drive, not with so much public transportation around. Then, after meeting my husband and moving out to the suburbs, I took driving classes. I was already 28 and unfortunately still had some preconceived notions in my head even after getting my license. I don't like busy streets or ones with a lot of lanes. I don't like trying to figure out which light is mine. Anyway, I'm digressing.
Our home is walking distrance from the commuter train, so I walk every day to the train. I walk to my job after I get off the train. So, I'm very lucky. I don't have to worry about buying gas and the train pass price has not gone up much.
Other people are not as fortunate. Not knowing the problems about gas that would happen, they took jobs that require driving distances to get to work, or some are even truck drivers. The gas price problems really hit them.
All along the line, prices are going up. Companies are doing their best to cope with the rise in energy costs and some can't do it.
What does this have to do with books and publishing? Lots. People don't have as much money to buy books. Also, it costs more to mail books. To many people, owning books is considered a luxury. Instead of going to bookstores, they're spending more time at libraries. That can be a good thing if they order in books. Authors and publishers will make sales that way.
I'm not sure where this will leave us midlist authors or the publishing world in general. Will more publishing houses go the POD/print-on-demand route? It makes sense, but old habits die hard.
Ebooks are already catching on with even the large publishing houses. Hopefully, more reader will take advantage of them. At least this way our books and our names are still out there for the general public.
The future remains to be seen. For now, we can only hang on for the ride and hope it doesn't end!
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com
http://bookplace.ning.com
www.myspace.com/morganmandel
www.juniorscave.com/morganmandel.html
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
My Third, Fourth and Fifth of July
My second eldest daughter was born on the third of July. At the time, my husband and eldest daughter were living in half a Quonset hut on the Port Hueneme Seabee Base in Port Hueneme CA. (It’s pronounced Y-nee-me.) Husband took me to the infirmary (they didn’t have a hospital then) and dropped me off because he had our three-year-old to care for. This was back in the days when family members were not welcome in the delivery room.
I don’t remember a lot about her entrance into the word because they had some kind of gas called triolene (that’s what I think it was called) attached to my wrist and they kept reminding me to breathe it.) The they were the doctor–who I’d never seen before, he introduced himself as Dr. Apley from Point Mugu (the Navel Air Station) and he probably was the duty doctor. Most of those doctors at the time were in the Navy and doing their internship but really didn’t have any more experienced doctor watching over them. The rest of the people in the room were corpsmen–and young.
Lisa arrived sometime after midnight, don’t remember when, and I was hustled off to a shared room in the infirmary. Because the fourth of July was a holiday, we were lucky to get our babies, get fed, and the room wasn’t cleaned. Lisa was a cute, chubby baby–and finally husband came to meet her. Years later, when Lisa was having her first child, I was the birth coach and the baby was born in that same delivery room because her husband was away in the Army. (I remember far more about my granddaughter’s delivery than her mom’s.)
To celebrate Lisa’s birthday, hubby and I took her and her husband to the movies–we saw Hancock (okay, but not as good as it could have been) and out to dinner.
On the Fourth we were up at 5 a.m. so we could leave by 6 for the park in Exeter where they were having a craft fair and Fourth celebration. Every booth was under a big tree and the weather was wonderful. The day started with the flag salute led by cub scouts, and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner by a girl I’ve known since she was a kid–and what a voice. I’ve never heard anyone sing our National Anthem that well.
I met a lot of people, sold a few books, visited with old friends, at a wonderful Indian Taco and thoroughly enjoyed the day. We came home and watched one of the discs of John Adams. Now that’s a wonderful series–not only is the history well done, but John and Abigail Adams had a remarkable romance.
On the Fifth, we were up again at 5 a.m. This time we drove to Fresno to the San Joaquin Chapter of Sisters in Crime. The speaker talked about fires and fires in books–and talked about Judgment Fire which has two fires in it. I’d been told to bring my books and sold five. Two of the books I sold were Deadly Trail, which also has a big fire. The speaker pointed out that fire is something we all fear. With all the fires going on in California right now, fire is definitely a big fear.
Enough of my meanderings.
Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com
I don’t remember a lot about her entrance into the word because they had some kind of gas called triolene (that’s what I think it was called) attached to my wrist and they kept reminding me to breathe it.) The they were the doctor–who I’d never seen before, he introduced himself as Dr. Apley from Point Mugu (the Navel Air Station) and he probably was the duty doctor. Most of those doctors at the time were in the Navy and doing their internship but really didn’t have any more experienced doctor watching over them. The rest of the people in the room were corpsmen–and young.
Lisa arrived sometime after midnight, don’t remember when, and I was hustled off to a shared room in the infirmary. Because the fourth of July was a holiday, we were lucky to get our babies, get fed, and the room wasn’t cleaned. Lisa was a cute, chubby baby–and finally husband came to meet her. Years later, when Lisa was having her first child, I was the birth coach and the baby was born in that same delivery room because her husband was away in the Army. (I remember far more about my granddaughter’s delivery than her mom’s.)
To celebrate Lisa’s birthday, hubby and I took her and her husband to the movies–we saw Hancock (okay, but not as good as it could have been) and out to dinner.
On the Fourth we were up at 5 a.m. so we could leave by 6 for the park in Exeter where they were having a craft fair and Fourth celebration. Every booth was under a big tree and the weather was wonderful. The day started with the flag salute led by cub scouts, and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner by a girl I’ve known since she was a kid–and what a voice. I’ve never heard anyone sing our National Anthem that well.
I met a lot of people, sold a few books, visited with old friends, at a wonderful Indian Taco and thoroughly enjoyed the day. We came home and watched one of the discs of John Adams. Now that’s a wonderful series–not only is the history well done, but John and Abigail Adams had a remarkable romance.
On the Fifth, we were up again at 5 a.m. This time we drove to Fresno to the San Joaquin Chapter of Sisters in Crime. The speaker talked about fires and fires in books–and talked about Judgment Fire which has two fires in it. I’d been told to bring my books and sold five. Two of the books I sold were Deadly Trail, which also has a big fire. The speaker pointed out that fire is something we all fear. With all the fires going on in California right now, fire is definitely a big fear.
Enough of my meanderings.
Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com
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Great time at Mystery Authors Book Signing April 5 at B & N
Glad to say the Book Signing yesterday, April 5, at Barnes & Noble -
Arlington Heights, IL was a fun time & great success. We canvassed the store, sold our books and made new friends.
Now I have even more photos to add to my 2008 Book Signing page at
www.morganmandel.com
Here's one to start out with.
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.comhttp://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com
http://mysteryturtles.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/morganmandel
www.juniorscave.com/morganmandel.html
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
NEW 2008 BOOKSIGNINGS PAGE at www.morganmandel.com
You can find this photo & others, plus news on future book signings on the new, colorful page, 2008booksignings, which you can access by clicking on my profile photo on the main page at www.morganmandel.com or clicking the tab in the Morgan Lite Section.
Hope you enjoy them.
Morgan Mandel
GIRL OF MY DREAMS BOOK LAUNCH PARTY
Morgan & Chicago-North RWA Buddy & Right Hand Helper at the Event, Deb RittleGorgeous Flowers From Deb
Sue McCarthy Walden, Morgan, Sue Cherf, Morgan's husband, Paul
Family En Masse
Good Friends & Fans, Al & Rosemary
Morgan Mandel & Husband, Paul
My Impressions - Barbara Walters Show & Academy Awards - Morgan Mandel
I've got a sore throat, which means a cold or the dreaded flu, but I got bored with sleeping.
To break the monotony, I watched Barbara Walters interview:
Miley Cyrus - or Destiny Hope Cyrus, which was the first name her parents gave her. She's 15 years old and already owns an entire wing in her parents' home. What a life!
Very engaging young girl who seems to have her head on straight despite all of her notoriety.
I also watched Barbara Walters interview Ellen Page, a very pretty 21 year old, very sensible, but she just had to close the interview singing a song which I can't get out of my head - nice little ditty.
Vanessa Williams - who spoke about the controversy over her nude photos and admitted they weren't worth it in the long run. Very lovely woman who admitted she, like many other movie stars, uses Botox.
Harrison Ford - who says his new Indiana Jones movie, set for release in May, will not hide the passage of time. Harrison himself is now 65, but doesn't look it.
I love the glamor of the Academy Awards. I particularly enjoy watching what the stars wear and how their hair is done. Sometimes they look completely different in person than on the sample movie clips shown.
Many of the women are wearing strapless gowns - which always make me a bit nervous - how do they keep them up without spilling out of them?
Anyway, I haven't seen any of the movies, but will eventually do so on DVD.
I just watched Tilda Swinton win supporting actress. She looked totally surprised. It was refreshing to see that much spontaneity.
Anyway, I'm signing off now so I can enjoy the rest of the Awards - Also to Dream that some day my romantic comedy, GIRL OF MY DREAMS by Morgan Mandel can be made into a movie - Well, I did say it was a dream, didn't I?
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
To break the monotony, I watched Barbara Walters interview:
Miley Cyrus - or Destiny Hope Cyrus, which was the first name her parents gave her. She's 15 years old and already owns an entire wing in her parents' home. What a life!
Very engaging young girl who seems to have her head on straight despite all of her notoriety.
I also watched Barbara Walters interview Ellen Page, a very pretty 21 year old, very sensible, but she just had to close the interview singing a song which I can't get out of my head - nice little ditty.
Vanessa Williams - who spoke about the controversy over her nude photos and admitted they weren't worth it in the long run. Very lovely woman who admitted she, like many other movie stars, uses Botox.
Harrison Ford - who says his new Indiana Jones movie, set for release in May, will not hide the passage of time. Harrison himself is now 65, but doesn't look it.
I love the glamor of the Academy Awards. I particularly enjoy watching what the stars wear and how their hair is done. Sometimes they look completely different in person than on the sample movie clips shown.
Many of the women are wearing strapless gowns - which always make me a bit nervous - how do they keep them up without spilling out of them?
Anyway, I haven't seen any of the movies, but will eventually do so on DVD.
I just watched Tilda Swinton win supporting actress. She looked totally surprised. It was refreshing to see that much spontaneity.
Anyway, I'm signing off now so I can enjoy the rest of the Awards - Also to Dream that some day my romantic comedy, GIRL OF MY DREAMS by Morgan Mandel can be made into a movie - Well, I did say it was a dream, didn't I?
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
Girl of My Dreams by Morgan Mandel Now Available For Order
Hi everyone,After all the stress of the Holiday Season, you'll need a break. Consider ordering Girl of My Dreams, my new romantic comedy about an assistant turned reality show contestant, to be shipped after 1/1/08. (Guys, if you order early, you'll be set for a Valentine's Day gift!)
WHAT'S GIRL OF MY DREAMS ABOUT?
When food poisoning strikes the set of a new reality show, Jillian, the straitlaced assistant, steps in and becomes a contestant. The transformed Jillian is swept up into travel and adventure, as each round brings her closer to winning the millionaire. Too bad he's not the one she loves.
Order information for print books is at:
http://www.hardshell.com/Search.aspx?Keyword=Morgan+Mandel
If you prefer ebooks, at present Girl of My Dreams is also available at All Romance Ebooks. You can't miss it at:
www.allromanceebooks.com
I'll let you know when it also comes up at Amazon.
Have a Merry Christmas!
Morgan Mandel
www.morganmandel.com
http://bookplace.ning.com
http://myspace.com/morganmandel
http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com
http://mysteryturtles.blogspot.com
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Rascal is sleeping right now. When she gets up, you'll know about it.
When RASCAL wakes up, you'll hear from her and/or her Mom - that would be me, Morgan Mandel.
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