I picked 10 novels off my middle grade and young adult shelves. All books I've read and enjoyed, but I was curious to pay closer attention to how they start. Do their opening lines have a hook? Let's take a look: The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate I am Ivan. I am a… Continue reading 10 Opening Lines: Do they entice you to read on?
When I first started writing YA, long ago, I picked up Writing Great Books for Young Adults by Regina Brooks. It's a book I still highly recommend today. However, it's been years since I read it, so I've pulled it off my shelf to give it my time and attention again. And I'm rather amused.… Continue reading Regina Brooks’ 5 Rules for Engaging YA Readers
I hear that writers often create soundtracks for their current work-in-progress. It helps to set the mood, get them in the zone, hear their characters speak to them. I have been asked if I create soundtracks for my books, I do not. However, I do write to music and it has to be a specific… Continue reading Keeping the outside world out.
I was at the Forks today, a major tourist hub in Winnipeg, and one of my favourite hangouts. I had supper at my favourite restaurant there, A Taste of Sri Lanka. And then splurged on a small cookie dough flurry from Neon Cone. I highly recommend both when you visit. I found a table and… Continue reading Editing at the Forks
