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Too much pumpkin pie and trimmings got me thinking about fat characters
not fat in the literal sense, but more overdone (a little like my turkey this year .. sorry sweetie!)
I am reading a book right now that is almost comical in its character tells:
the grandma picks her ears
the sister twirls her hair
the father snorts constantly
the dark, mean antagonist licks his lips to no end
it's all a little too much.
Now, I am all for a well placed character tell here and there -- but too many can make your otherwise dark and scary novel into a Mel Brooks production (bring out your dead!)
It's sad really, because this novel has great potential and I want so badly to stop giggling at the overwritten characters long enough to enjoy it.
Oh well, at least I can learn from it. It caused me to go back to my WIP and cut out a few of my own overwritten characteristics. All things in moderation, right?
Know this: I totally use character tells. They can really enhance a piece and make you feel more connected to the characters. I am just seeing how they can also distract from a piece if overdone.
Questions: how do you use character tells? do you agree that they can be overdone? have you seen that? done that? weigh in!
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Sunday, November 29, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
The Best Reasons to be Thankful
Let's be thankful - we have it better than these guys:
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At least no one has their rear end in your face --
your mom isn't a tart (I sincerely hope not!)
and you are not on the menu!
Happy Thanksgiving all -- see you Monday!
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At least no one has their rear end in your face --
your mom isn't a tart (I sincerely hope not!)
and you are not on the menu!
Happy Thanksgiving all -- see you Monday!
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Saturday, November 21, 2009
How I Know I'm With The Right Agent
This post may be longer than most ... and maybe a little rambling, but I wanted to talk about the difference between having an agent and having the right agent for you.
there is a difference.
When I decided to query agents, I had a few friends say you've got to query agent x - he runs such a cool blog! or why don't you query agent z, she's a friend of a friend.
Instinctively, I knew it would be better to proceed a little more objectively.
I have had three different writing friends who have decided to part ways with their agents due to various reasons, but the heart of the problem was always related to the fact that the agent really didn't get the writer's style/voice/work as much as was required.
I wanted to avoid that situation if possible. So, I researched agents based on their client list and how their current work/style fit with my work/style. I then googled their names, read every word on their websites, read past interviews, read their clients blogs and even read some of their client's novels.
When I had a list of agents I thought would be a good fit, I began the query process.
In the end, Steven Chudney extended an offer of representation and I was thrilled to accept.
But recently, I had an experience that let me know how perfect he really is for me
what was that experience? I'll tell you...
My novel With A Name Like Love is under submission. It is a long process, but I am being patient and writing away at my next novel in the interim. I got to the point where I decided to let Steven know what I was working on.
I wrote him an e mail and told him it was a Middle Grade novel that involved this and that and stuff but promised lots of action and adventure.
Truthfully, I was hoping to be able to write a more plot driven novel this time. I have a tendency to write character driven pieces. So, I thought I would try to deliver a plot driven novel but I was inwardly worrying about actually delivering one.
Could I do it? Would it work? Or, would it be a horrible flop?
Steven's response?
Something along the lines of .... 'this and that sounds interesting, but just make sure the gist of the story is about the characters and the family.'
Perfect.
I can do that.
Questions: What do you think about this experience? Would you accept representation from any agent that offered (if you are seeking same)? What is your querying plan of action? If you are agented, how did you know the fit was right for you?
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there is a difference.
When I decided to query agents, I had a few friends say you've got to query agent x - he runs such a cool blog! or why don't you query agent z, she's a friend of a friend.
Instinctively, I knew it would be better to proceed a little more objectively.
I have had three different writing friends who have decided to part ways with their agents due to various reasons, but the heart of the problem was always related to the fact that the agent really didn't get the writer's style/voice/work as much as was required.
I wanted to avoid that situation if possible. So, I researched agents based on their client list and how their current work/style fit with my work/style. I then googled their names, read every word on their websites, read past interviews, read their clients blogs and even read some of their client's novels.
When I had a list of agents I thought would be a good fit, I began the query process.
In the end, Steven Chudney extended an offer of representation and I was thrilled to accept.
But recently, I had an experience that let me know how perfect he really is for me
what was that experience? I'll tell you...
My novel With A Name Like Love is under submission. It is a long process, but I am being patient and writing away at my next novel in the interim. I got to the point where I decided to let Steven know what I was working on.
I wrote him an e mail and told him it was a Middle Grade novel that involved this and that and stuff but promised lots of action and adventure.
Truthfully, I was hoping to be able to write a more plot driven novel this time. I have a tendency to write character driven pieces. So, I thought I would try to deliver a plot driven novel but I was inwardly worrying about actually delivering one.
Could I do it? Would it work? Or, would it be a horrible flop?
Steven's response?
Something along the lines of .... 'this and that sounds interesting, but just make sure the gist of the story is about the characters and the family.'
Perfect.
I can do that.
Questions: What do you think about this experience? Would you accept representation from any agent that offered (if you are seeking same)? What is your querying plan of action? If you are agented, how did you know the fit was right for you?
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Thursday, November 12, 2009
Deep Thoughts on a Friday
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Who out there remembers Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey?
you know, Saturday Night Live, circa 1990...
Those who do will get this. Those who don't will think I'm insane. Oh well, here goes :D
Deep Thoughts...
by Jack Handey
Maybe in order to understand mankind, we have to look at the word itself.
Mankind.
Basically, it is made up of two separate words
"mank" and "ind".
What do these words mean?
It's a mystery, and that's why so is mankind.
happy weekend! remember to laugh, be silly and maybe even take a nap
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Who out there remembers Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey?
you know, Saturday Night Live, circa 1990...
Those who do will get this. Those who don't will think I'm insane. Oh well, here goes :D
Deep Thoughts...
by Jack Handey
Maybe in order to understand mankind, we have to look at the word itself.
Mankind.
Basically, it is made up of two separate words
"mank" and "ind".
What do these words mean?
It's a mystery, and that's why so is mankind.
happy weekend! remember to laugh, be silly and maybe even take a nap
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Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Wish I Knew Wednesday #2
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Today I want to discuss internet security
This is a small thing and maybe you already know this....
Security tip #1: don't use your actual e mail address in the face of your blog.
why? there are malware and spam programs that troll blogs searching for e mail addresses. Granted, there are zillions of blogs out there, but why take a chance? If one of these programs picks up your e mail address, it will send malicious files to you under generic names in hope that you will open them.
What to do: instead of using the @ and .com -- write it out. For example, I will say my e mail address is tesshilmo(at)comcast(dot)net It is those two symbols (the @ and .com) that identify something as an e mail address to these trolling programs.
Super easy to do, plus I am adding an extra layer of protection against spam and malware.
Did you know this? Will you consider changing your habits to add this layer of protection or is it just not worth it to you? Who out there is hosting a Wish I Knew Wednesday? I'd love to learn your tips!
Today I want to discuss internet security
This is a small thing and maybe you already know this....
Security tip #1: don't use your actual e mail address in the face of your blog.
why? there are malware and spam programs that troll blogs searching for e mail addresses. Granted, there are zillions of blogs out there, but why take a chance? If one of these programs picks up your e mail address, it will send malicious files to you under generic names in hope that you will open them.
What to do: instead of using the @ and .com -- write it out. For example, I will say my e mail address is tesshilmo(at)comcast(dot)net It is those two symbols (the @ and .com) that identify something as an e mail address to these trolling programs.
Super easy to do, plus I am adding an extra layer of protection against spam and malware.
Did you know this? Will you consider changing your habits to add this layer of protection or is it just not worth it to you? Who out there is hosting a Wish I Knew Wednesday? I'd love to learn your tips!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Monday Winner!
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I enjoyed reading your comments over the weekend -- thank you all so much for taking the time to share some grateful thoughts.
It made me think of all the blessings in my life.
And, using random.org, I am here to announce that today's Monday Winner is...
Kristen Torres-Toro
so, Kristen, e mail me at tesshilmo(at)comcast(dot)net and I will respond with your $10 Amazon gift card (in e mail form).
Congrats!
Truthfully, we are all winners when we choose to live grateful lives.
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I enjoyed reading your comments over the weekend -- thank you all so much for taking the time to share some grateful thoughts.
It made me think of all the blessings in my life.
And, using random.org, I am here to announce that today's Monday Winner is...
Kristen Torres-Toro
so, Kristen, e mail me at tesshilmo(at)comcast(dot)net and I will respond with your $10 Amazon gift card (in e mail form).
Congrats!
Truthfully, we are all winners when we choose to live grateful lives.
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Thursday, November 5, 2009
Free Stuff Friday
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Happy November!
I love this month. It's in the fall (my favorite time of year), I get to eat pumpkin pie (top 10 foods) and we all focus a little bit more on family, friends and gratitude.
Today's Free Stuff Friday is an effort to kick start this wonderful time of year by focusing on
things we are grateful for
To enter for a $10 Amazon gift card (to be rewarded in a random drawing)
leave a comment highlighting something you are grateful for.
PLUS - you get an extra entry if you also tell us how you show that gratitude.
WHY? Because it is one thing to be grateful. It is another entirely to LIVE grateful lives...to show that gratitude to the universe by reaching out to others -- even in small ways.
Don't be afraid of sounding boastful -- this exercise is more about realizing the power of putting our gratitude into action and serving those around us.
I'll go first : I am grateful for the influence of good friends. One way I show that gratitude is by lunching with an elderly, widowed neighbor once a week. He inspires me to be a better person and I give him a little bit of company and a date to look forward to.
Now your turn....
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Happy November!
I love this month. It's in the fall (my favorite time of year), I get to eat pumpkin pie (top 10 foods) and we all focus a little bit more on family, friends and gratitude.
Today's Free Stuff Friday is an effort to kick start this wonderful time of year by focusing on
things we are grateful for
To enter for a $10 Amazon gift card (to be rewarded in a random drawing)
leave a comment highlighting something you are grateful for.
PLUS - you get an extra entry if you also tell us how you show that gratitude.
WHY? Because it is one thing to be grateful. It is another entirely to LIVE grateful lives...to show that gratitude to the universe by reaching out to others -- even in small ways.
Don't be afraid of sounding boastful -- this exercise is more about realizing the power of putting our gratitude into action and serving those around us.
I'll go first : I am grateful for the influence of good friends. One way I show that gratitude is by lunching with an elderly, widowed neighbor once a week. He inspires me to be a better person and I give him a little bit of company and a date to look forward to.
Now your turn....
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Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Wish I Knew Wednesday #1
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For the next few Wednesdays, I'm going to be sharing some things I have learned along this writing journey. They are out of the ordinary things that I usually learned the hard way and wish I had known much sooner. Hope it is helpful!
Wish I Knew #1: (This is a general rule, not true in every case -- but widely true and something to give consideration)
Your e mail address can keep editors/agents from opening your query.
Explanation:
Many (not all) editors/agents do not open e mail addresses that are not names. For example hotchick(at)whatever(dot)com or bestmommyever(at)something(dot)com.
Why?
They get a lot of emails and spam and are very cautious about possible viruses or other malware. If they run their mouse over your email address and the name that pops up does not match the address, they will most likely delete the e mail w/out opening it.
Additional fact: unless specifically requested, they will NOT open attachments. If you query via e mail and include pages, you MUST include them in the body of your text.
How I know this is true:
I queried under my family e mail address. It was benign, but not my name. Weeks and months passed w/out any responses. Then I read this post on Janet Reid's site about how she does not open any mail sent from such accounts.
I realized how that might explain why 0% of the queries I sent received responses. I then re-sent them under my tesshilmo(at)whatever(dot)com
and - bingo!
responses.
So - if you are waiting to hear back on queries sent under a generic e mail, know that they may have been deleted.
Seriously consider having an e mail account with your name. It appears more professional (imho) and will give you a fighting chance that the targeted recipient will actually open your query.
*
For the next few Wednesdays, I'm going to be sharing some things I have learned along this writing journey. They are out of the ordinary things that I usually learned the hard way and wish I had known much sooner. Hope it is helpful!
Wish I Knew #1: (This is a general rule, not true in every case -- but widely true and something to give consideration)
Your e mail address can keep editors/agents from opening your query.
Explanation:
Many (not all) editors/agents do not open e mail addresses that are not names. For example hotchick(at)whatever(dot)com or bestmommyever(at)something(dot)com.
Why?
They get a lot of emails and spam and are very cautious about possible viruses or other malware. If they run their mouse over your email address and the name that pops up does not match the address, they will most likely delete the e mail w/out opening it.
Additional fact: unless specifically requested, they will NOT open attachments. If you query via e mail and include pages, you MUST include them in the body of your text.
How I know this is true:
I queried under my family e mail address. It was benign, but not my name. Weeks and months passed w/out any responses. Then I read this post on Janet Reid's site about how she does not open any mail sent from such accounts.
I realized how that might explain why 0% of the queries I sent received responses. I then re-sent them under my tesshilmo(at)whatever(dot)com
and - bingo!
responses.
So - if you are waiting to hear back on queries sent under a generic e mail, know that they may have been deleted.
Seriously consider having an e mail account with your name. It appears more professional (imho) and will give you a fighting chance that the targeted recipient will actually open your query.
Invitation: have you learned things along this path that you'd like to share? Feel free to host your own Wish I Knew Wednesday...it will be fun to learn from each other!
Questions: Did you know this? Do you have your name as your e mail? Have you experienced any trouble w/ a non-name e mail address?*
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Monday Musing
I would like to say thanks for all of your kind thoughts and words last week. It is not all writing related -- the funk was brought on by a scary diagnosis for an immediate family member, job issues and just plain being tired. I crawled under the covers, slept way too long, left the dishes in the sink for three days (then made the kiddos do them) and now feel much better.
Today I'm offering this Monday Musing:
"Keep these concepts in mind: You've failed many times, although you don't remember. You fell down the first time you tried to walk. You almost drowned the first time you tried to swim. . . . Don't worry about failure. My suggestion to each of you: Worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try." Sherman Finesilver
something about this quote resonated with me.
I guess it is the line, "Worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try."
Here is my challenge to all of us this week:
give ourselves permission to try, fail and try again
see the flailing and failing as part of the learning process
and, most importantly,
worry about what you will miss if you don't even try
QUESTIONS: Are you willing? what is something you do well that took some time and effort to master? have you ever heard the quote by Eddie Cantor, "It takes 20 years to make an overnight success?" Why do we immediately forget that when we see others have success? Why do we assume it came easier to them?
and best wishes to all of you who are taking on NaNo this month...may the muse be with you!
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Today I'm offering this Monday Musing:
"Keep these concepts in mind: You've failed many times, although you don't remember. You fell down the first time you tried to walk. You almost drowned the first time you tried to swim. . . . Don't worry about failure. My suggestion to each of you: Worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try." Sherman Finesilver
something about this quote resonated with me.
I guess it is the line, "Worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try."
Here is my challenge to all of us this week:
give ourselves permission to try, fail and try again
see the flailing and failing as part of the learning process
and, most importantly,
worry about what you will miss if you don't even try
QUESTIONS: Are you willing? what is something you do well that took some time and effort to master? have you ever heard the quote by Eddie Cantor, "It takes 20 years to make an overnight success?" Why do we immediately forget that when we see others have success? Why do we assume it came easier to them?
and best wishes to all of you who are taking on NaNo this month...may the muse be with you!
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