I’ve been doing some research on matron literature, a genre which focuses on older female characters as protagonists. This genre – an offshoot of chick lit – is also sometimes called “hen lit,” “granny lit,” “matron lit” and even – God give me strength! – “hag lit.” What I’ve discovered so far is that there are some truly terrific books out there –many of which I’m looking forward to reading – written by and about “older” women.
Read MoreIt’s tough to carve out time for writing (or anything else, for that matter) when you have a career, a family –a life! – going on. And when you share that life with someone who has Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), it can make every day a little more interesting, frustrating, and challenging – and sometimes more painful too –not just for your loved one, but for you. Although I’ve counseled adults with ADD over the years, this is also a personal issue for me, because my husband has Attention Deficit Disorder. Even though he didn’t know it when he was growing up, he understands now (as do so many other adults with ADD) that he’s been struggling with many symptoms of the disorder since childhood.
Read MoreOver the last month, I’ve devoted most of the time I usually reserve for writing to learning more about self-publishing.
Read MoreI hope you enjoy this light-hearted – and 100% true -- piece about my husband, Steve. It’s a digression from my usual posts, I know, but it gives you just a tiny glimpse into my life, and I hope it makes you smile. And I wonder why I’m always exhausted….
Read MoreLike most writers, I read voraciously. And like most people who love to read, my choice of reading material has changed over the years. My first love is and always will be fiction. However, although I used to devour novels filled with tragic events that sometimes led to even more tragic endings, I find myself passing them by these days in favor of novels that leave me feeling – do I dare say it?--hopeful. Does that mean I prefer living in denial sometimes, rather than face the harsh realities none of us can avoid in this unpredictable, crazy and often cruel world?
Read MoreI feel certain that PROJECT EX never would have come to fruition without the support of other writers, friends and colleagues who offered their insight, wisdom and encouragement right from the beginning. I had no idea the thoughts and ideas I shared at a writers’ group at a local (now defunct) bookstore would morph into a 90,000 word novel. I just knew I had a story to tell and as I shared that story with other people, they seemed intrigued and kept encouraging me to keep on writing. “What happens next?” they often asked me. “Beats me,” was my usual answer, “but I’ll let you know next week.” It never occurred to me to write an outline – that came later, much later.
Read MoreIt's official -- I 'm now working four days a week instead of five! At last -- I have one full week day to devote to writing. It may not sound huge, but it is to me. Because of my intense full-time job as social worker, I've always done most of my writing on weekends, trying to squeeze in writing time between the usual errands, fun time with family and friends, and much-needed R&R. It's huge because I recently completed my first novel and I'm itching to get it published and boy, do I have a lot to learn!
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