Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Novel Writing Challenge Completed!
I have managed to write 50,047 words in the last month. The challenge was to write 50,000 in the month of November. And I have finished two days before the deadline on Friday. I found the challenge exhausting, particularly toward the end when I seemed to run out of story.
Getting a first draft on paper is the merest beginning to producing a novel. I am always amazed when people assume that the first draft is the novel. Much, much more work will be needed before the draft becomes the novel. But the first draft is a start.
I am glad that I took part in the challenge. We can all do more than we think we can.
Getting a first draft on paper is the merest beginning to producing a novel. I am always amazed when people assume that the first draft is the novel. Much, much more work will be needed before the draft becomes the novel. But the first draft is a start.
I am glad that I took part in the challenge. We can all do more than we think we can.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
"To Read or Not to Read"
A recent study by the National Endowment for the Arts has concluded that most Americans are reading less.
The study mentions that "literary" readers are more likely to exercise, visit museums, keep up with current events, vote in presidential elections, and perform volunteer work.
Hurrah for readers! Readers are leaders!
The study mentions that "literary" readers are more likely to exercise, visit museums, keep up with current events, vote in presidential elections, and perform volunteer work.
Hurrah for readers! Readers are leaders!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Our Back Yard
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Readers Visit Colonial Williamsburg
I recently met a whole family of readers visiting Colonial Williamsburg from New Jersey. Keep reading, kids! Readers are leaders.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Sharing Creative Energy
Seven Williamsburg writers participating in the National Novel Writing Challenge met Saturday afternoon at Barnes and Nobles to cheer each other on and write.
Good Luck Everyone!
Saturday, November 03, 2007
A Challenge for Crittenden Students
My author's visit to Crittenden Middle School in Newport News on November 1 coincided with the beginning of National Novel Writing Month. I challenged the kids there to write 20,000 words in the month of November and promised a signed book for all those who completed the challenge.
We talked a little about writing and I was impressed with the imagination and enthusiasm of the Crittendon Students. I look forward to signing many books for Crittendon students and reporting their success on my website.
