Blathering
To Do Lists
To do lists are the most important tool I use to treat writing like a job. I keep two to-do lists. The first is in my writing journal. When I think of an idea to fix a story, I Read more…
Writing
A Hugo and a dollar gets you a cup of coffee
I was hosting my monthly writer’s workshop, The Cajun Sushi Hamsters, in my first “real” post-college apartment. I was in the tiny kitchen, and so was Hugo-winner Maureen McHugh. Geoff Landis, who also has won Hugos, joined us. As always Read more…
Announcement
Write-A-Thon!
Once again, I’ll be taking part in the Clarion Write-a-Thon to raise money for scholarships to the Clarion Science Fiction Writing Workshop. Clarion was one of the best experiences of my life and I want to make it possible for Read more…
Blathering
Fame
Shortly after attending Clarion, I was bragging about it to a colleague. “All the teachers are published authors,” I said. “Like who?” she asked. I listed my instructors. She stared blankly. “What would they have written that I would have Read more…
Writing
Plot CAN be Taught
Fellow Cajun Sushi Hamster Tobias Buckell decided to host a writing workshop at the college where he worked. He invited an editor to lead it and got six or so aspiring authors like myself to attend. I was the only girl, Read more…
Blathering
The Greatest Show on Harper Street
My older sister Terri and her friends put on a variety show in the loft over our garage one summer. The skits were, of course, all the most sophisticated humor. But best of all, the older kids let Grace and Read more…
Announcement
Zombie Hitler
It is with pride that I can honor a great American, a great Ohioan, on this Memorial Day. My short story, “Zombie Hitler Vs. Neil Armstrong” has been purchased by British publication Ponokitsch. Yes, the story is pretty much exactly Read more…