Hey everyone!
I started this other blog a few weeks ago, and it's easier to keep that one going instead of trying to do both blogs. So, for the time being anyway, I'm going to post on there a lot more than I'm going to post on here. I figure it's better to do one blog well than make a lazy attempt at both.
I may still post on here in the future :)
Come see me at http://thenycnewbie.blogspot.com and learn about my adventures in NYC!
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Just a Hiccup!
Remember my last post, about how I was craving these literary sorts of books? Well have no fear! I haven't lost my taste for YA sci fi and fantasy! I'm still reading literary-ish books, but I have a whole list of fantasy books to read.
You see, it happened a few days ago as I was researching publishers. I thought to myself, if I know which imprint of Penguin, for example, publishes YA sci fi and fantasy, then I can focus my efforts into finding a way to work with them. I found out that the Firebird imprint of Penguin does indeed publish just those kinds of books. Some of their authors, whose books I love, are Kristin Cashore, Robin McKinley, Patricia C. Wrede, and Brian Jacques.
I looked next at Simon & Schuster. I discovered that the Simon Pulse imprint published Tamora Pierce, Orson Scott Card, and Scott Westerfield. Whaaat! Yeah, I would die to work at either of these imprints! Now, I have a very large list of their books to read. I'm starting to wonder, how does one find time to read them all?
You see, it happened a few days ago as I was researching publishers. I thought to myself, if I know which imprint of Penguin, for example, publishes YA sci fi and fantasy, then I can focus my efforts into finding a way to work with them. I found out that the Firebird imprint of Penguin does indeed publish just those kinds of books. Some of their authors, whose books I love, are Kristin Cashore, Robin McKinley, Patricia C. Wrede, and Brian Jacques.
I looked next at Simon & Schuster. I discovered that the Simon Pulse imprint published Tamora Pierce, Orson Scott Card, and Scott Westerfield. Whaaat! Yeah, I would die to work at either of these imprints! Now, I have a very large list of their books to read. I'm starting to wonder, how does one find time to read them all?
Monday, June 23, 2014
WIFYR and Other Fun Stuff!
This past week was incredible! I wanted to blog, but I was so busy rewriting and editing that I had to wait. I went to WIFYR! I told myself that I would regret leaving Utah and not going to WIFYR this summer. Turns out that I was right.
I was a little nervous as the conference approached. Writers can be an insecure bunch, or maybe that's just me. I always do this to myself, though. I start thinking that my writing's not very good or that I shouldn't have signed up. But I went, and I am so glad that I did! I was in Ann Cannon's class--basically the best class ever! Anyone who was in there will agree with me. The feedback that I received on my writing was great, I got to read through the other students' writing and give my own critiques, and I got to meet a lot of new, fun people. Unless something big comes up next summer, I'm totally hopping on a plane and heading back to WIFYR.
Some of the prominent people who were there (aside from the faculty, which was composed of published authors) were Kristin Ostby (editor for Simon & Schuster), Michelle Witte (agent for Mansion Street Literary MGMT), John Cusick (agent for Greenhouse Literary), Amy Jameson (agent for (A+B Works), and James Dashner as the keynote speaker. And of course, Carol Lynch Williams is the main start-up-gal behind the scenes of WIFYR, though a lot of people make it happen. In short, WIFYR was amazing, so why weren't you there?
After WIFYR, I went to Lagoon with my parents, sister-in-law, and niece and nephews. I can't think of a better week right before I move to NYC. Books and family, that's where it's at. By the way, my niece has this weird thing about feeding me. Yesterday, she kept abandoning her food to sit by me, and then she kept picking up my fork and shoveling corn into my mouth. It takes a lot longer to eat when a three-year-old is feeding you, but it was more entertaining for sure!
Today will be full of doing all the necessary preparatory things that one does before moving to NYC. I think I'll start a new blog too, about all my NYC happenings. I'll still write on this one too though. I really just love the word hugger-mugger, though I'm admittedly more of a people-watcher than a hugger-mugger.
I was a little nervous as the conference approached. Writers can be an insecure bunch, or maybe that's just me. I always do this to myself, though. I start thinking that my writing's not very good or that I shouldn't have signed up. But I went, and I am so glad that I did! I was in Ann Cannon's class--basically the best class ever! Anyone who was in there will agree with me. The feedback that I received on my writing was great, I got to read through the other students' writing and give my own critiques, and I got to meet a lot of new, fun people. Unless something big comes up next summer, I'm totally hopping on a plane and heading back to WIFYR.
Some of the prominent people who were there (aside from the faculty, which was composed of published authors) were Kristin Ostby (editor for Simon & Schuster), Michelle Witte (agent for Mansion Street Literary MGMT), John Cusick (agent for Greenhouse Literary), Amy Jameson (agent for (A+B Works), and James Dashner as the keynote speaker. And of course, Carol Lynch Williams is the main start-up-gal behind the scenes of WIFYR, though a lot of people make it happen. In short, WIFYR was amazing, so why weren't you there?
After WIFYR, I went to Lagoon with my parents, sister-in-law, and niece and nephews. I can't think of a better week right before I move to NYC. Books and family, that's where it's at. By the way, my niece has this weird thing about feeding me. Yesterday, she kept abandoning her food to sit by me, and then she kept picking up my fork and shoveling corn into my mouth. It takes a lot longer to eat when a three-year-old is feeding you, but it was more entertaining for sure!
Today will be full of doing all the necessary preparatory things that one does before moving to NYC. I think I'll start a new blog too, about all my NYC happenings. I'll still write on this one too though. I really just love the word hugger-mugger, though I'm admittedly more of a people-watcher than a hugger-mugger.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Curious Encounters of the Literary Kind
Here's an interesting phenomenon.
I studied English, which means, among other things, that I read (and sometimes half-read) a lot of books. I remember thinking, during all of that schooling, that sometimes I just wanted to read another book--not as in, I just couldn't wait to read another book, but more like, I wanted something different. I thought of the entire library (which is rather massive, by the way) filled with all kinds of books, many of which would have been more interesting, I thought, than what I was reading at that time. This wasn't always the case, and I enjoyed reading many of my required books.
But classics--we all can name at least one because we had to read at least one in high school--were never my area of interest, especially in high school. I remember reading The Red Pony, by Steinbeck in 7th grade and being so disappointed that the pony died (spolier alert!). Yeah, the pony dies. And that sums up just about everything that I remember about that book. The English major in me wants to reread it and see what it's really about, see what I missed.
In 7th grade, I was much more interested in reading Terry Brooks, Tamora Pierce, and Brian Jacques--each of whom write excellent books, mostly fantasy. I was crazy for all fantasy books that fit into the YA genre, but my favorites were the ones with strong heroines. I still like a good YA novel, I mean, The Hunger Games! How could you not love it!
I don't think I found an appreciation for classics until I read The Handmaid's Tale, by Margaret Atwood--though you could say it's more contemporary than classic, especially since she's still alive! I remember before that, being rather disgusted at Lord of the Flies and how it made me feel kind of sick when I read it. I did not enjoy literature that made me feel sick. And I suppose, the next year, I did kind of like reading Invisible Man (and we're not talking about H.G. Wells here). But from where I stood, if anyone wanted to write a classic, all they had to do was make the characters miserable and the plot depressing, add in some death and viola! You have a classic.
Finally, here's the phenomenon. I suddenly find myself, not unable, but not wanting to pick up a fantasy novel. Gasp! Perhaps it has to do with my graduation, and now I can read all of those literary classics by choice! Or maybe it has to do with my sudden interest in all of John Green's books. I read Looking for Alaska last week, and I liked it! Tonight, in a hungry moment, I just decided to buy the rest of John Green's books (very contemporary, and very YA), as well as two by Kurt Vonnegut (Cat's Cradle and The Breakfast of Champions), and Catcher in the Rye. Although, if we're fair, Kurt Vonnegut sometimes falls under speculative fiction. I think it's fair to ask--what is happening to me? All I want to do is read contemporary, thought-provoking fiction and classics. I daydreamed earlier about reading Moby Dick. Did you hear that? Moby Dick! Since when is that something to daydream about? And on top of that, I've started writing something new, and it's completely modern--no fantasy, sci fi, or speculative anything.
Maybe it has to do with my Netflix binge, which is officially over now. You know it's bad when you start watching like five different movies and then stop them all after about 30 seconds.
I don't want anyone to take this the wrong way--fantasy and sci fi are very thought provoking. One of my favorite writers is Brandon Sanderson. He knows how to put the epic in fantasy! I think I just need a little break from it, just a little breathing room.
Who knows why I have this sudden book craving, but I'm going along with it. I've already started on my next John Green novel and have recently found some little intellectual nuggets (in the guise of YA) for my brain to chew on. It's quite nice, really.
I studied English, which means, among other things, that I read (and sometimes half-read) a lot of books. I remember thinking, during all of that schooling, that sometimes I just wanted to read another book--not as in, I just couldn't wait to read another book, but more like, I wanted something different. I thought of the entire library (which is rather massive, by the way) filled with all kinds of books, many of which would have been more interesting, I thought, than what I was reading at that time. This wasn't always the case, and I enjoyed reading many of my required books.
But classics--we all can name at least one because we had to read at least one in high school--were never my area of interest, especially in high school. I remember reading The Red Pony, by Steinbeck in 7th grade and being so disappointed that the pony died (spolier alert!). Yeah, the pony dies. And that sums up just about everything that I remember about that book. The English major in me wants to reread it and see what it's really about, see what I missed.
In 7th grade, I was much more interested in reading Terry Brooks, Tamora Pierce, and Brian Jacques--each of whom write excellent books, mostly fantasy. I was crazy for all fantasy books that fit into the YA genre, but my favorites were the ones with strong heroines. I still like a good YA novel, I mean, The Hunger Games! How could you not love it!
I don't think I found an appreciation for classics until I read The Handmaid's Tale, by Margaret Atwood--though you could say it's more contemporary than classic, especially since she's still alive! I remember before that, being rather disgusted at Lord of the Flies and how it made me feel kind of sick when I read it. I did not enjoy literature that made me feel sick. And I suppose, the next year, I did kind of like reading Invisible Man (and we're not talking about H.G. Wells here). But from where I stood, if anyone wanted to write a classic, all they had to do was make the characters miserable and the plot depressing, add in some death and viola! You have a classic.
Finally, here's the phenomenon. I suddenly find myself, not unable, but not wanting to pick up a fantasy novel. Gasp! Perhaps it has to do with my graduation, and now I can read all of those literary classics by choice! Or maybe it has to do with my sudden interest in all of John Green's books. I read Looking for Alaska last week, and I liked it! Tonight, in a hungry moment, I just decided to buy the rest of John Green's books (very contemporary, and very YA), as well as two by Kurt Vonnegut (Cat's Cradle and The Breakfast of Champions), and Catcher in the Rye. Although, if we're fair, Kurt Vonnegut sometimes falls under speculative fiction. I think it's fair to ask--what is happening to me? All I want to do is read contemporary, thought-provoking fiction and classics. I daydreamed earlier about reading Moby Dick. Did you hear that? Moby Dick! Since when is that something to daydream about? And on top of that, I've started writing something new, and it's completely modern--no fantasy, sci fi, or speculative anything.
Maybe it has to do with my Netflix binge, which is officially over now. You know it's bad when you start watching like five different movies and then stop them all after about 30 seconds.
I don't want anyone to take this the wrong way--fantasy and sci fi are very thought provoking. One of my favorite writers is Brandon Sanderson. He knows how to put the epic in fantasy! I think I just need a little break from it, just a little breathing room.
Who knows why I have this sudden book craving, but I'm going along with it. I've already started on my next John Green novel and have recently found some little intellectual nuggets (in the guise of YA) for my brain to chew on. It's quite nice, really.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Yearly Bucket List
I had the coolest idea the other night. You know how people have bucket lists or just cool things that they want to do? I was wondering, how many people actually make those things happen?
I lived in Italy for 18 months as an LDS missionary (which was awesome!) and I've been back to visit once. Oh, and I speak Italian. When I tell people that I've lived in Italy and that I speak Italian, most of them tell me that they've always wanted to go there. Just today, I probably heard it from four different people. (Just FYI, I don't normally walk around telling people about Italy. I met a bunch of new people, and it just kind of came up).
I know that a lot of the people I encounter are young 20-something college students who have no money, but sometimes they're older. I was thinking last night, why don't more people just do it? If you want to do something, why not just go for it? This may be a side-effect of my moving to NYC. Sometimes it's a terrifying thought, but mostly I just get excited.
Last night, I thought to myself, what if I made a goal to do something epic/awesome every year of my life? It's fun to think about living in Italy and all of the cool experiences I had. Then I think about moving to NYC, and I wonder about everything that I'll experience. It's bound to be epic and difficult, yet likely rewarding.
It doesn't have to be expensive, like traveling to Italy. It could be something that's mostly incredible to you. But I thought, what if I could do something like that every year? I could do more than one! I guess it's just the idea of living your bucket list while you've still got the strength in your legs to do it--make it exciting to live your own life.
And I also remembered that I still have not been to Harry Potter World. It's going on the list!
I lived in Italy for 18 months as an LDS missionary (which was awesome!) and I've been back to visit once. Oh, and I speak Italian. When I tell people that I've lived in Italy and that I speak Italian, most of them tell me that they've always wanted to go there. Just today, I probably heard it from four different people. (Just FYI, I don't normally walk around telling people about Italy. I met a bunch of new people, and it just kind of came up).
I know that a lot of the people I encounter are young 20-something college students who have no money, but sometimes they're older. I was thinking last night, why don't more people just do it? If you want to do something, why not just go for it? This may be a side-effect of my moving to NYC. Sometimes it's a terrifying thought, but mostly I just get excited.
Last night, I thought to myself, what if I made a goal to do something epic/awesome every year of my life? It's fun to think about living in Italy and all of the cool experiences I had. Then I think about moving to NYC, and I wonder about everything that I'll experience. It's bound to be epic and difficult, yet likely rewarding.
It doesn't have to be expensive, like traveling to Italy. It could be something that's mostly incredible to you. But I thought, what if I could do something like that every year? I could do more than one! I guess it's just the idea of living your bucket list while you've still got the strength in your legs to do it--make it exciting to live your own life.
And I also remembered that I still have not been to Harry Potter World. It's going on the list!
Facts and Confessions
Fact: When I wear my sunglasses, I feel like ten times cooler. The only problem is that I have to take them off when I go inside.
Confession: I couldn't help myself--I had to watch The Fault In Our Stars today! It was pretty good, though almost out of principle I have to say that the book is my favorite. I'm glad I went.
Fact: I realized tonight that, while I won't miss having a car too much, I will miss that feeling of having all the windows rolled down, the wind everywhere, the music too loud, and singing along.
Confession: (deep breath) I'm a feminist! Phew, I said it! Here is the definition of feminism: the advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men. I mean, how can I not be a feminist after studying literature, where female writers don't even really appear until the Romantic/Victorian period. And even then, how many of them kept the fact that they were female a secret? And how many of them even got to go to a University? And how many of them were taken seriously? But I'm not an extremist--I still shave my legs and stuff. I just like that I can be independent and think and act for myself unlike so many women of the past.
It's all kind of random, I know, but I was feeling kind of random tonight. There you have it!
Confession: I couldn't help myself--I had to watch The Fault In Our Stars today! It was pretty good, though almost out of principle I have to say that the book is my favorite. I'm glad I went.
Fact: I realized tonight that, while I won't miss having a car too much, I will miss that feeling of having all the windows rolled down, the wind everywhere, the music too loud, and singing along.
Confession: (deep breath) I'm a feminist! Phew, I said it! Here is the definition of feminism: the advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men. I mean, how can I not be a feminist after studying literature, where female writers don't even really appear until the Romantic/Victorian period. And even then, how many of them kept the fact that they were female a secret? And how many of them even got to go to a University? And how many of them were taken seriously? But I'm not an extremist--I still shave my legs and stuff. I just like that I can be independent and think and act for myself unlike so many women of the past.
It's all kind of random, I know, but I was feeling kind of random tonight. There you have it!
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Zut alors! She has emerged!
Yes, I'm back! It's been quite a while. How long has it been since I last posted on here? Sheesh, it's kind of weird that I can feel guilty about not posting, but it's kind of true.
What have I got to say for myself? I graduated! And I worked! And I did a lot of sleeping/resting. I caught up on some tv shows too. It maybe wasn't the best use of my time, but it felt sooo good to relax!
I think I came out of my tv show binge faze yesterday when I needed to have 5,000 words ready for my WIFYR group. The conference is coming up! Two weeks! I had more than that written, but I think I'm kind of an eternal rewriter, which perhaps comes from me being a sort of "by the seat of your pants" kind of writer. Essentially, I hadn't worked much more on my story, and I wasn't too satisfied with the pages that I had--at least not enough to send them in to get critiqued by my group. So, yesterday, starting at about 4pm, I wrote. By 11:30pm, I had just under 5,000 words. Even though it's still kind of iffy, it's much better than what I had before. The submissions needed to be in by the end of yesterday. I don't think I realized just how inspiring deadlines can be.
Mostly, I can't stop thinking about my move to NYC! I may start a new blog that is all about the things I discover or don't discover. Or perhaps I'll just keep it all on here. I have a ticket though, did I mention that before? I did indeed buy a plane ticket. I'll be out of here on June 24th, so just a few weeks away. I have a place for a couple of months at least (on Manhattan!). Now I'm just waiting. Good thing I have a brother's wedding and WIFYR to keep me semi-busy until I leave.
I'll probably be more regular about posts now--no more two-month gaps.
By the way, did anyone pick up on the Beauty and the Beast quote??? Extra points if you did!
What have I got to say for myself? I graduated! And I worked! And I did a lot of sleeping/resting. I caught up on some tv shows too. It maybe wasn't the best use of my time, but it felt sooo good to relax!
I think I came out of my tv show binge faze yesterday when I needed to have 5,000 words ready for my WIFYR group. The conference is coming up! Two weeks! I had more than that written, but I think I'm kind of an eternal rewriter, which perhaps comes from me being a sort of "by the seat of your pants" kind of writer. Essentially, I hadn't worked much more on my story, and I wasn't too satisfied with the pages that I had--at least not enough to send them in to get critiqued by my group. So, yesterday, starting at about 4pm, I wrote. By 11:30pm, I had just under 5,000 words. Even though it's still kind of iffy, it's much better than what I had before. The submissions needed to be in by the end of yesterday. I don't think I realized just how inspiring deadlines can be.
Mostly, I can't stop thinking about my move to NYC! I may start a new blog that is all about the things I discover or don't discover. Or perhaps I'll just keep it all on here. I have a ticket though, did I mention that before? I did indeed buy a plane ticket. I'll be out of here on June 24th, so just a few weeks away. I have a place for a couple of months at least (on Manhattan!). Now I'm just waiting. Good thing I have a brother's wedding and WIFYR to keep me semi-busy until I leave.
I'll probably be more regular about posts now--no more two-month gaps.
By the way, did anyone pick up on the Beauty and the Beast quote??? Extra points if you did!
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
One Week More!
I always seem to forget how grueling the last week of the semester is. And mine really is not that bad! The fact that it is my last week as an undergraduate student both motivates me and then takes away all motivation. It's like when you're coming up on that finish line. Do you run at full speed all the way through and then slow down once you've crossed, or do you start slowing down before you've reached that ending? Unfortunately, I have a tendency to be indecisive. But it looks like I'm slowing down, which then makes it so much harder when I need to do a little sprint, write a paper here, read some chapters there, etc.
I haven't been as good this week about staying on top of my word count. I'm much more motivated to do my creative writing, but then the fact that I still have some academic work to do kind of kills my drive. After tonight and tomorrow night, though, pretty much all of my academic paper-writing work should be done! And Saturday is going to be dedicated almost entirely to the creative aspect.
Also, the Christina Perri and Birdy concert was awesome! I was so excited to see Birdy! But then I found out that they weren't selling any Birdy shirts, and that was a little sad. The music was great though! I even recorded "Skinny Love" live so that I can listen to it and remember being there.
These are some of my favorites:
Birdy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNzCDt2eidg - Skinny Love
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBKfy0FwUC8 - Wings
Christina Perri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5yaoMjaAmE - Human
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeW0Sl0tNS8 - Arms
General Conference was big too, this weekend. I was in Salt Lake City on Saturday for the concert and then on Sunday to see the last session of General Conference. Phew, busy weekend, but packed with a lot of good things.
I remember now how much creative writing makes me want to write songs too. It might also have to do with the fact that I went to an awesome concert this last weekend. I'm not really pursuing anything with my songwriting, but I do like it. And I want to do a couple of open mic nights, maybe, before I leave for NYC. If I do sign up for any open mic nights, I'll let you know!
One more week! And then no more classes!!!
I haven't been as good this week about staying on top of my word count. I'm much more motivated to do my creative writing, but then the fact that I still have some academic work to do kind of kills my drive. After tonight and tomorrow night, though, pretty much all of my academic paper-writing work should be done! And Saturday is going to be dedicated almost entirely to the creative aspect.
Also, the Christina Perri and Birdy concert was awesome! I was so excited to see Birdy! But then I found out that they weren't selling any Birdy shirts, and that was a little sad. The music was great though! I even recorded "Skinny Love" live so that I can listen to it and remember being there.
These are some of my favorites:
Birdy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNzCDt2eidg - Skinny Love
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBKfy0FwUC8 - Wings
Christina Perri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5yaoMjaAmE - Human
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeW0Sl0tNS8 - Arms
General Conference was big too, this weekend. I was in Salt Lake City on Saturday for the concert and then on Sunday to see the last session of General Conference. Phew, busy weekend, but packed with a lot of good things.
I remember now how much creative writing makes me want to write songs too. It might also have to do with the fact that I went to an awesome concert this last weekend. I'm not really pursuing anything with my songwriting, but I do like it. And I want to do a couple of open mic nights, maybe, before I leave for NYC. If I do sign up for any open mic nights, I'll let you know!
One more week! And then no more classes!!!
Friday, April 4, 2014
The Fault in Our Stars
I couldn't even wait a whole day to read this book. I bought it yesterday, and then I think I ate it for lunch. Actually, yes, now that I think of it, that's the truth. I'm only realizing now that I am rather hungry, and it is entirely John Green's fault that I read my way through lunch and didn't even care.
It's everything that I wish I could write. In these past few minutes after I finished the book, I can only describe my feelings as breathless. It's the best feeling in the world, and it's always how I want to feel when I've finished a book.
And, it's given me a clever phrase to think when I can't figure out what to say, "My thoughts are stars I can't fathom into constellations."
This is exactly why I want to be a writer, and if I can't be a writer, then I'm going to be an editor. More books like this one need to exist. My advice is, if you haven't read this book yet, stop whatever you're doing (eating, sleeping, nothing) because you won't care about whatever is was that you were doing until you finally read all the way through to that final page.
And now, I must to go because I really am starving.
It's everything that I wish I could write. In these past few minutes after I finished the book, I can only describe my feelings as breathless. It's the best feeling in the world, and it's always how I want to feel when I've finished a book.
And, it's given me a clever phrase to think when I can't figure out what to say, "My thoughts are stars I can't fathom into constellations."
This is exactly why I want to be a writer, and if I can't be a writer, then I'm going to be an editor. More books like this one need to exist. My advice is, if you haven't read this book yet, stop whatever you're doing (eating, sleeping, nothing) because you won't care about whatever is was that you were doing until you finally read all the way through to that final page.
And now, I must to go because I really am starving.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Epic April
Guess what? It looks like I'm not the only one who wanted to declare this a novel writing month. It's called Camp Nanowrimo!
https://campnanowrimo.org/sign_in
I'll still think of it as my personal novel writing month, but I'm totally registered in the camp. Yesterday, I was able to write a grand total of (ta-da) 812 words. Yeah, it's not my 2,000 that I was shooting for, but given that I only had 45 minutes to write yesterday, I'd say that's not bad. I've manipulated my schedule a little for today and tomorrow, so I think (I hope anyway) that I can hit my target word count.
It was kind of funny last night as I was trying to write. For a minute or two I just stared at the page and thought, why the heck am I not typing? Then I remembered that I needed to do my routine! I have to do what I call a free write before I begin story writing. It's like a massive word dump. The only rules are that I can't stop typing (it has to be as fast as I can) and I can't use the backspace. It helps me get out anything that might be stopping me from writing, and it helps the editor in me relax and have fun.
Also, I saw Divergent yesterday, and I have to say that I enjoyed the movie much better than the book. It was very well adapted for the screen. The characters had better development, and the story flowed better together. I approve!
And, one last announcement: NATHAN FILLION IS COMING TO COMIC CON!!!! I bought my tickets a couple of months ago for Comic Con, the fan experience in Salt Lake City coming up this month. I found out just last night that Nathan Fillion (for all of you Firefly, Dr. Horrible, and Castle fans out there) will be there!! I have to get a picture. April is pretty much going to be the best month ever. Two concerts (Christina Perri & Birdy, and Ingrid Michaelson), Comic Con, and my graduation!! Oh, and I'm also shooting for finishing a novel! How about that.
https://campnanowrimo.org/sign_in
I'll still think of it as my personal novel writing month, but I'm totally registered in the camp. Yesterday, I was able to write a grand total of (ta-da) 812 words. Yeah, it's not my 2,000 that I was shooting for, but given that I only had 45 minutes to write yesterday, I'd say that's not bad. I've manipulated my schedule a little for today and tomorrow, so I think (I hope anyway) that I can hit my target word count.
It was kind of funny last night as I was trying to write. For a minute or two I just stared at the page and thought, why the heck am I not typing? Then I remembered that I needed to do my routine! I have to do what I call a free write before I begin story writing. It's like a massive word dump. The only rules are that I can't stop typing (it has to be as fast as I can) and I can't use the backspace. It helps me get out anything that might be stopping me from writing, and it helps the editor in me relax and have fun.
Also, I saw Divergent yesterday, and I have to say that I enjoyed the movie much better than the book. It was very well adapted for the screen. The characters had better development, and the story flowed better together. I approve!
And, one last announcement: NATHAN FILLION IS COMING TO COMIC CON!!!! I bought my tickets a couple of months ago for Comic Con, the fan experience in Salt Lake City coming up this month. I found out just last night that Nathan Fillion (for all of you Firefly, Dr. Horrible, and Castle fans out there) will be there!! I have to get a picture. April is pretty much going to be the best month ever. Two concerts (Christina Perri & Birdy, and Ingrid Michaelson), Comic Con, and my graduation!! Oh, and I'm also shooting for finishing a novel! How about that.
Monday, March 31, 2014
The Calm Before the Storm
Here I am, the night before Bethany's Novel Writing Month begins. I still haven't thought of a cooler name for that. Shouldn't I be preparing more? Eh, probably. I was going to get a head start on the rest of my homework this weekend so that I would be free to do all of this writing, and then I got a stupid crick in my shoulder/neck area. Why on earth do we get those?
I've basically just been relaxing. What a buzzkill those cricks can be. But I'm not going to let it stop me! I probably won't be posting on here every day, letting you know how many words I've got, but I think I need to write about 2,000 words a day. I'll try to do it often enough, but I'll at least post every Saturday with the updated word count.
On another note, today is the last day in March, which means that in about 25 days and 1.5 hours, I will be graduating! Haha, finally!
Oh, and other news--General Conference is this weekend. I'll be going to the Sunday afternoon session. And I'm going to a Christina Perri concert (Birdy will be there too, which is pretty much why I'm going). It's a packed week! Or weekend, rather.
Oh, and I'm going to see Divergent tomorrow night. I have a feeling that I'll enjoy the film better than the book.
That's all folks! Good night, and happy April Fool's Day tomorrow. By the way, let me know if any of you do some epic April Fool's jokes. I always love a good story.
I've basically just been relaxing. What a buzzkill those cricks can be. But I'm not going to let it stop me! I probably won't be posting on here every day, letting you know how many words I've got, but I think I need to write about 2,000 words a day. I'll try to do it often enough, but I'll at least post every Saturday with the updated word count.
On another note, today is the last day in March, which means that in about 25 days and 1.5 hours, I will be graduating! Haha, finally!
Oh, and other news--General Conference is this weekend. I'll be going to the Sunday afternoon session. And I'm going to a Christina Perri concert (Birdy will be there too, which is pretty much why I'm going). It's a packed week! Or weekend, rather.
Oh, and I'm going to see Divergent tomorrow night. I have a feeling that I'll enjoy the film better than the book.
That's all folks! Good night, and happy April Fool's Day tomorrow. By the way, let me know if any of you do some epic April Fool's jokes. I always love a good story.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Hear Ye!
I've been wishing for another Nanowrimo because I feel like my Novembers are always super packed with nasty school business. Needless to say, I didn't make it very far in my attempt to write a novel in a month.
But now . . . I find myself suddenly with time to spare. I do this thing though, where I get super busy (like the first couple of months of the semester) and my days are seriously packed! Saturdays were pretty much my only day to do grocery shopping, homework, and laundry. I got tired of getting up at 6:30am to go to the grocery store on my Saturday. Once I get past that initial busy streak (or drop an unnecessary class) I have some spare time and want to spend that relaxing. So then I get into this mode of relaxing in all of this spare time because my body and my mind don't want to get that busy and stressed again.
Well, I think I've done enough relaxing, and now I'm looking at the upcoming WIFYR and thinking about how much I just don't have written. I'm ahead on my assignments, and the last day of school is just 3 weeks away! It would seem that the timing is just right, except it's not November.
I was thinking of calling April "Bethany's Novel Writing Month" so it would be Benowrimo. Yeah, maybe I'll try to think of something cooler to call it, but I am declaring it my novel writing month! And I would really love to do the same in May! I mean, when else am I going to be just graduated from school with a lot of free time?
Also, I just came up a plan B for NYC as I was talking about things with some people in my building. Here's the deal: If things don't go well at all in NYC, I will buy a motorcycle, shave my head, and bike all the way to Seattle where I will start new! I don't know that I'd shave my whole head. Maybe I'd do that half-shaved look. I don't know how to describe it, but it looks better than just plain shaved. I'll make a documentary. How does that sound? You know, it's kind of exciting. I guess it's good to have a plan B that's pretty cool.
But now . . . I find myself suddenly with time to spare. I do this thing though, where I get super busy (like the first couple of months of the semester) and my days are seriously packed! Saturdays were pretty much my only day to do grocery shopping, homework, and laundry. I got tired of getting up at 6:30am to go to the grocery store on my Saturday. Once I get past that initial busy streak (or drop an unnecessary class) I have some spare time and want to spend that relaxing. So then I get into this mode of relaxing in all of this spare time because my body and my mind don't want to get that busy and stressed again.
Well, I think I've done enough relaxing, and now I'm looking at the upcoming WIFYR and thinking about how much I just don't have written. I'm ahead on my assignments, and the last day of school is just 3 weeks away! It would seem that the timing is just right, except it's not November.
I was thinking of calling April "Bethany's Novel Writing Month" so it would be Benowrimo. Yeah, maybe I'll try to think of something cooler to call it, but I am declaring it my novel writing month! And I would really love to do the same in May! I mean, when else am I going to be just graduated from school with a lot of free time?
Also, I just came up a plan B for NYC as I was talking about things with some people in my building. Here's the deal: If things don't go well at all in NYC, I will buy a motorcycle, shave my head, and bike all the way to Seattle where I will start new! I don't know that I'd shave my whole head. Maybe I'd do that half-shaved look. I don't know how to describe it, but it looks better than just plain shaved. I'll make a documentary. How does that sound? You know, it's kind of exciting. I guess it's good to have a plan B that's pretty cool.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Looking at the Grimms
Phew, I need a break from my paper. Blog post! I haven't posted much lately, but I have been doing lots of research. As I was writing today, I realized that I needed to do some more research on the Brothers Grimm to find out if their writing was meant to be subversive in any way. What I found was actually quite fascinating.
The Grimms, being a part of the Romantic movement, included a lot about nature in their writing. It was meant to be a reflection of a purely German heritage, to take things back to their own roots. Interestingly enough, though, quite a few of the stories in their collection of fairy tales, such as "Little Red Riding Hood" can be found in earlier collections, like in Charles Perrault's collection of French fairy tales. I didn't find much about the Grimms intending to subvert children (in fact, the Grimms' fairy tales, in one of their later editions, even had a sort of parental advisory in the introduction because of how violent some of the stories were). However, I did find that during the rule of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime, they instituted the Grimms' fairy tales in every school. These tales were good for children because "they increase German self-consciousness and stimulate the fighting spirit, the will of victory, which, luckily, is reborn with every German youth and every German girl again and again."
This quote was taken from the article, "Grimm's 'Household Tales' and Its Place in the Household: The Social Relevance of a Controversial Classic" by Linda Degh.
I had no idea about this before, but I'll definitely be using that in my paper. I'm certain that the Grimms had no idea that their fairy tales would be used for propaganda. Their aims were much more literary than that. And the propaganda did have a bad effect after World War II because they wanted to separate themselves from that mentality. Still, that passed and the Grimms' fairy tales are quite prevalent in our society.
On a different, but slightly related subject, I have been watching ABC's Once Upon a Time. I'm enjoying it, seeing how they play with the various characters. Still, I kind of wish that Disney wasn't in charge of it though. Sometimes the show can be a bit cheesy, but it's still interesting to see what they do to the fairy tales. I wish that they would branch out a little more too. Granted, I've only just finished the first season (playing catch-up here) but they could branch out to some lesser-known fairy tales, like "Bluebeard". That's an interesting one if you haven't read it. Even something like "Briar Rose", something similar to what we've already encountered, but new. By the way, most of these fairy tales that Disney has made into movies and that are in Once Upon a Time come from the Grimm's collection.
Also, I had a super cool idea the other day, though I'll bet that someone has already done something like this. What if someone rewrote a bunch of the fairy tales as science fiction? It would probably mean taking out the magic and replacing it with technology, and obviously the settings would need to change somewhat. Wouldn't it be kind of cool to see though?
The Grimms, being a part of the Romantic movement, included a lot about nature in their writing. It was meant to be a reflection of a purely German heritage, to take things back to their own roots. Interestingly enough, though, quite a few of the stories in their collection of fairy tales, such as "Little Red Riding Hood" can be found in earlier collections, like in Charles Perrault's collection of French fairy tales. I didn't find much about the Grimms intending to subvert children (in fact, the Grimms' fairy tales, in one of their later editions, even had a sort of parental advisory in the introduction because of how violent some of the stories were). However, I did find that during the rule of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime, they instituted the Grimms' fairy tales in every school. These tales were good for children because "they increase German self-consciousness and stimulate the fighting spirit, the will of victory, which, luckily, is reborn with every German youth and every German girl again and again."
This quote was taken from the article, "Grimm's 'Household Tales' and Its Place in the Household: The Social Relevance of a Controversial Classic" by Linda Degh.
I had no idea about this before, but I'll definitely be using that in my paper. I'm certain that the Grimms had no idea that their fairy tales would be used for propaganda. Their aims were much more literary than that. And the propaganda did have a bad effect after World War II because they wanted to separate themselves from that mentality. Still, that passed and the Grimms' fairy tales are quite prevalent in our society.
On a different, but slightly related subject, I have been watching ABC's Once Upon a Time. I'm enjoying it, seeing how they play with the various characters. Still, I kind of wish that Disney wasn't in charge of it though. Sometimes the show can be a bit cheesy, but it's still interesting to see what they do to the fairy tales. I wish that they would branch out a little more too. Granted, I've only just finished the first season (playing catch-up here) but they could branch out to some lesser-known fairy tales, like "Bluebeard". That's an interesting one if you haven't read it. Even something like "Briar Rose", something similar to what we've already encountered, but new. By the way, most of these fairy tales that Disney has made into movies and that are in Once Upon a Time come from the Grimm's collection.
Also, I had a super cool idea the other day, though I'll bet that someone has already done something like this. What if someone rewrote a bunch of the fairy tales as science fiction? It would probably mean taking out the magic and replacing it with technology, and obviously the settings would need to change somewhat. Wouldn't it be kind of cool to see though?
Thursday, March 13, 2014
I made it! The big 25!
I was going to post this yesterday, but it was a busy day! It's not every day that you turn 25! Yup, a quarter of a century. What did I do? Well, mostly homework, not out of choice though. But it was fun still. Oh, and the super big news of the night--my brother got his mission call to North Carolina! We were all really excited about that. He'll leave at the end of May, which really isn't far away at all.
Today, since I had to do a bunch of research, I did some extra thinking. First of all, I really like Jack Zipes. The man has written so much on fairy tales and folklore, and I feel like a lot of what he writes just blows my mind. I was reading again about children's literature, and I had these two contrasting articles--one about the Italian author Gianni Rodari and his quest to change literature for children and empower the child with words, and the other about how, since the 1970's the market for children's literature has boomed and has become more and more controlled by corporations and a bottom line.
Sometimes, I seriously have to just sit back and wonder at how complex the world is. Isn't it amazing that two ideas so juxtaposed can be happening at the same time? I would say that there are many authors out there who seek to publish good books. I don't think they're trying to pick our pockets or turn us into the perfect consumer, and yet that is sometimes what happens, isn't it? Also, isn't it interesting to think that it is, in fact, adults who have defined children's literature. What if children actually want something drastically different than what we think they want? Wouldn't it be interesting to see a book of fairy tales or stories that actually was written by children? Maybe it exists already, and I just don't know about it, but I think someone should do it.
All of this just had me thinking about publishing a lot, especially since I've made up my mind to go to New York City to work my way into the publishing business. I love books, always have and always will, but it became evident to me today that I will have to do my best to try to publish good literature. Needless to say, it gave me some interesting food for thought, and it will likely continue to tumble about in my brain for some time.
Well, I'm not always this pensive, but there you have it. I'm 25 and full of some deep thoughts today. I think it's going to be a very good year.
Today, since I had to do a bunch of research, I did some extra thinking. First of all, I really like Jack Zipes. The man has written so much on fairy tales and folklore, and I feel like a lot of what he writes just blows my mind. I was reading again about children's literature, and I had these two contrasting articles--one about the Italian author Gianni Rodari and his quest to change literature for children and empower the child with words, and the other about how, since the 1970's the market for children's literature has boomed and has become more and more controlled by corporations and a bottom line.
Sometimes, I seriously have to just sit back and wonder at how complex the world is. Isn't it amazing that two ideas so juxtaposed can be happening at the same time? I would say that there are many authors out there who seek to publish good books. I don't think they're trying to pick our pockets or turn us into the perfect consumer, and yet that is sometimes what happens, isn't it? Also, isn't it interesting to think that it is, in fact, adults who have defined children's literature. What if children actually want something drastically different than what we think they want? Wouldn't it be interesting to see a book of fairy tales or stories that actually was written by children? Maybe it exists already, and I just don't know about it, but I think someone should do it.
All of this just had me thinking about publishing a lot, especially since I've made up my mind to go to New York City to work my way into the publishing business. I love books, always have and always will, but it became evident to me today that I will have to do my best to try to publish good literature. Needless to say, it gave me some interesting food for thought, and it will likely continue to tumble about in my brain for some time.
Well, I'm not always this pensive, but there you have it. I'm 25 and full of some deep thoughts today. I think it's going to be a very good year.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
The Rithmatist
I just finished reading Brandon Sanderson's The Rithmatist. It was a pretty good read. World building is definitely one of Brandon Sanderson's strong points as a writer. The Rithmatist is a steampunk/gearpunk YA novel that takes place in a world very similar to ours, but different. The United States is actually the United Isles. I believe there are about 60 islands total. We join the main character, Joel, at Armedius Academy, where they train Rithmatists to defend the world against wild chalklings--yeah, wild creatures made of chalk. But they're pretty dangerous. A couple of times, we find out what happens to someone attacked by these chalklings, and it's not very pretty. Like I said, Brandon Sanderson is great at building new worlds and then taking us into them.
That being said, I think I prefer his adult novels. The Mistborn trilogy is still my favorite, but I haven't yet been able to dive into The Way of Kings. I'm waiting until I graduate for that one--I think I'll need the extra time. And, getting back onto my train of thought, his YA novels aren't as compelling to me as his adult novels. The endings was still surprising and good (I've never been disappointed at the end of one of his books). I was pleased that things weren't wrapped up quite in the way that I was expecting. There was just enough resolution of conflict to satisfy me, but at the same time "the plot thickens."
I'm not quite sure that Joel has the voice of a 16 year old, especially since he often is accompanied by a girl of his same age, yet he rarely thinks about her in a romantic sort of way. Maybe there are some teenage boys that don't think about that, but I would guess that plenty do. He does seem to be pretty engrossed in Rithmatics, so perhaps that obsession pushes all romantic notions out of his head.
Those are my only complaints. I'm curious to see what happens in the next installment.
Brandon Sanderson is a pretty big name in fantasy these days, but if you do't know who he is, you should check out his website. And if you haven't read Mistborn, put down what you're reading (if it's boring) and pick that one up!
http://brandonsanderson.com/
That being said, I think I prefer his adult novels. The Mistborn trilogy is still my favorite, but I haven't yet been able to dive into The Way of Kings. I'm waiting until I graduate for that one--I think I'll need the extra time. And, getting back onto my train of thought, his YA novels aren't as compelling to me as his adult novels. The endings was still surprising and good (I've never been disappointed at the end of one of his books). I was pleased that things weren't wrapped up quite in the way that I was expecting. There was just enough resolution of conflict to satisfy me, but at the same time "the plot thickens."
I'm not quite sure that Joel has the voice of a 16 year old, especially since he often is accompanied by a girl of his same age, yet he rarely thinks about her in a romantic sort of way. Maybe there are some teenage boys that don't think about that, but I would guess that plenty do. He does seem to be pretty engrossed in Rithmatics, so perhaps that obsession pushes all romantic notions out of his head.
Those are my only complaints. I'm curious to see what happens in the next installment.
Brandon Sanderson is a pretty big name in fantasy these days, but if you do't know who he is, you should check out his website. And if you haven't read Mistborn, put down what you're reading (if it's boring) and pick that one up!
http://brandonsanderson.com/
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Yes, kids can read the classics!
Yesterday, in my publishing business class, Jennifer Adams came as our special guest. I had never heard of her before then. She's an editor, author, and bookseller. I loved looking at her kids books! they're the cutest things! Check it out.
Aren't they just awesome? If I had some little babies, I would totally buy these! Classics for kids--it's . . . classic!
It's always cool to hear from the guests that come to my class. We haven't had too many picture book writers and editors, aside from the teacher, Rick Walton, who is a pretty successful picture book writer. These have to be some of the coolest picture books I've ever seen though. And they're the board kind, perfect for little chubby hands and are non-toxic (you know how much kids love to eat things).
Anyway, I just wanted to share these. If you're interested in checking out her blog, here it is!
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
The Bad Dating Chronicles #1
I had a thought today. I've gone on lots of bad dates, so why don't I make a little record of my bad dates? I'll change names of course, but I thought it might be fun to do, especially since I added to that list of bad dates just this weekend.
I had thought that this date might be different. The guy seemed intriguing and intelligent, both good things. But alas, I was disappointed. Not all of it was bad. He really did seem like a nice guy, and he did some things right, but then he did so many things wrong.
Things to consider when going on a first date:
#1. Be open and honest.
You're on a date for heaven's sake! Two people are trying to get to know each other, and how are they supposed to do that when one party continues to answer in vague, one-word responses that kills all conversation? The answer: they don't.
#2. Avoid talking about past dates.
Maybe this is obvious for some, but not for everyone. It rather ruined the illusion of him when he told me that he has asked out numerous other girls in the exact same manner. Oh, and most of them told him he was creepy and left. To an English major who likes to read between the lines, what am I supposed to think you're trying to tell me here? Whatever it is, it's not positive.
#3. If you ask the girl to lunch, you should probably pay for the lunch.
I know that money is tight for most people, and I don't ask for much. I just had the cheapest 6-inch sub that was there, so we're talking $3.50, plus tax. But that's one sure way to kill a date, unless of course the woman is just swept off her feet by the words, "So, you brought your wallet with you, right?" And I think it goes for guys and girls. I'm sure it's kind of nice for the guy to get a break when you ask him on a date.
#4. Do not talk about your plans to take out two girls at once.
This was the cherry on top. I really can't think of anything more attractive than a man who wants to have two girlfriends at once. Are you with me on this, ladies?
He texted me.
I haven't responded.
And I never will.
Most of these are no-brainers, but if you can keep in mind these four points, you'll at least be ahead those on the bad dating chronicles.
Be sure to check back for more bad dating chronicles. I've had quite a few! I'll even throw in an awkward story from my mission (since you aren't supposed to date while on a mission). Doesn't mean that people won't try to propose! The suspense may kill you, but I'll add to the bad dating chronicles before too long.
I had thought that this date might be different. The guy seemed intriguing and intelligent, both good things. But alas, I was disappointed. Not all of it was bad. He really did seem like a nice guy, and he did some things right, but then he did so many things wrong.
Things to consider when going on a first date:
#1. Be open and honest.
You're on a date for heaven's sake! Two people are trying to get to know each other, and how are they supposed to do that when one party continues to answer in vague, one-word responses that kills all conversation? The answer: they don't.
#2. Avoid talking about past dates.
Maybe this is obvious for some, but not for everyone. It rather ruined the illusion of him when he told me that he has asked out numerous other girls in the exact same manner. Oh, and most of them told him he was creepy and left. To an English major who likes to read between the lines, what am I supposed to think you're trying to tell me here? Whatever it is, it's not positive.
#3. If you ask the girl to lunch, you should probably pay for the lunch.
I know that money is tight for most people, and I don't ask for much. I just had the cheapest 6-inch sub that was there, so we're talking $3.50, plus tax. But that's one sure way to kill a date, unless of course the woman is just swept off her feet by the words, "So, you brought your wallet with you, right?" And I think it goes for guys and girls. I'm sure it's kind of nice for the guy to get a break when you ask him on a date.
#4. Do not talk about your plans to take out two girls at once.
This was the cherry on top. I really can't think of anything more attractive than a man who wants to have two girlfriends at once. Are you with me on this, ladies?
He texted me.
I haven't responded.
And I never will.
Most of these are no-brainers, but if you can keep in mind these four points, you'll at least be ahead those on the bad dating chronicles.
Be sure to check back for more bad dating chronicles. I've had quite a few! I'll even throw in an awkward story from my mission (since you aren't supposed to date while on a mission). Doesn't mean that people won't try to propose! The suspense may kill you, but I'll add to the bad dating chronicles before too long.
Frozen
Well, I finally saw Frozen! I didn't really feel that much of a need to go see it before, but we talked about it on three or four separate occasions in my senior seminar on fairy tales. I finally decided, that in order to add to class discussion the next time we rambled onto that subject, I needed to see it.
I liked it. I don't feel a driving need to see it again, and I probably won't buy it when it comes out. I don't buy many films though--lack of money and lack of space make a person much more selective. Anyway, like I said it was nice. I was actually thinking that it was going to be pretty bad and cheesy based on the bits of music I had heard and the previews I had seen.
So why didn't I love it? Well, I thought the story needed some work. Bear in mind though, I'm picky about my entertainment, and I'm not saying that I'm any kind of professional critic, but I have been working on refining my tastes, and I trust my instincts when it comes to a story.
I like a gripping conflict, one that's simple enough to understand but poses many complex questions, answers, and actions. The Hunger Games is a great example of this. You have Katniss who is placed against her will in an arena with a bunch of other kids. Only one of them can survive. Suzanne Collins struck the gold mine there! It's so simple, but so complex at the same time. It brings up so many complicated issues, I love it!
Frozen did not "grip" me, so to speak. Couldn't the two sister have communicated some? I know there were limitations, but it just makes the plot so obvious. Of course if they don't communicate at all, they'll have relationship issues with each other, and knowing Disney, of course their relationship would end up being a key factor in fixing the problem, and everything would end, for lack of a better term, "happily ever after." I wasn't surprised at the plot twist. I wasn't surprised by anything that happened. It was actually kind of disappointing that I called all the shots.
I suppose I like to view my entertainment as a sort of challenge. I always try to see if I can figure out the ending to the story. If I can, it doesn't mean that I win. I don't know what it means exactly, but it leaves me unsatisfied. The best is when I think I know what's going to happen, but I'm surprised completely by the ending, and it's better than the one I came up with. So, Frozen did not do that for me. However, the music was nice and it was nice to just relax I suppose. And I did like Olaf, the snowman. But the story was not, shall we say, intellectually stimulating.
Now onto a slight tangent, I've heard a lot about the hidden meanings of Frozen, and I've heard a lot from people who are upset at those reading too far into the meaning. Which side of the argument does one take? I really think there are hidden meanings in film and literature and there always has been. I'm actually going to be writing my paper on this. But really, everything in our society is written and made by adults (even if it's for children), and it is nearly impossible for authors to separate themselves from their work. Without consciously meaning to even, we have certain structures, stereotypes, and stigmas in our entertainment, and I think we'd be fools not to see it. I think it can actually tell us quite a lot about what the values of society are at various points in time. Were these meanings meant to be there? I have no idea, and I'm not about to come up with an opinion on that--I don't have time if I'm going to get all of my homework done. But aren't those of us studying in the field of the Humanities searching to uncover deeper meanings within art, music, literature, and film?
I liked it. I don't feel a driving need to see it again, and I probably won't buy it when it comes out. I don't buy many films though--lack of money and lack of space make a person much more selective. Anyway, like I said it was nice. I was actually thinking that it was going to be pretty bad and cheesy based on the bits of music I had heard and the previews I had seen.
So why didn't I love it? Well, I thought the story needed some work. Bear in mind though, I'm picky about my entertainment, and I'm not saying that I'm any kind of professional critic, but I have been working on refining my tastes, and I trust my instincts when it comes to a story.
I like a gripping conflict, one that's simple enough to understand but poses many complex questions, answers, and actions. The Hunger Games is a great example of this. You have Katniss who is placed against her will in an arena with a bunch of other kids. Only one of them can survive. Suzanne Collins struck the gold mine there! It's so simple, but so complex at the same time. It brings up so many complicated issues, I love it!
Frozen did not "grip" me, so to speak. Couldn't the two sister have communicated some? I know there were limitations, but it just makes the plot so obvious. Of course if they don't communicate at all, they'll have relationship issues with each other, and knowing Disney, of course their relationship would end up being a key factor in fixing the problem, and everything would end, for lack of a better term, "happily ever after." I wasn't surprised at the plot twist. I wasn't surprised by anything that happened. It was actually kind of disappointing that I called all the shots.
I suppose I like to view my entertainment as a sort of challenge. I always try to see if I can figure out the ending to the story. If I can, it doesn't mean that I win. I don't know what it means exactly, but it leaves me unsatisfied. The best is when I think I know what's going to happen, but I'm surprised completely by the ending, and it's better than the one I came up with. So, Frozen did not do that for me. However, the music was nice and it was nice to just relax I suppose. And I did like Olaf, the snowman. But the story was not, shall we say, intellectually stimulating.
Now onto a slight tangent, I've heard a lot about the hidden meanings of Frozen, and I've heard a lot from people who are upset at those reading too far into the meaning. Which side of the argument does one take? I really think there are hidden meanings in film and literature and there always has been. I'm actually going to be writing my paper on this. But really, everything in our society is written and made by adults (even if it's for children), and it is nearly impossible for authors to separate themselves from their work. Without consciously meaning to even, we have certain structures, stereotypes, and stigmas in our entertainment, and I think we'd be fools not to see it. I think it can actually tell us quite a lot about what the values of society are at various points in time. Were these meanings meant to be there? I have no idea, and I'm not about to come up with an opinion on that--I don't have time if I'm going to get all of my homework done. But aren't those of us studying in the field of the Humanities searching to uncover deeper meanings within art, music, literature, and film?
Friday, February 28, 2014
Breaking News!
Guess what? Our episode of the Apple Seed is airing at noon! Yup, in about fifteen minutes. Here are the details from the host of the show.
The “Defining Moments” class stories will air today, as our engineer just finished the editing in time. The show airs at noon and again at 9pm on SiriusXM ch. 143 or online at www.byuradio.org. They can always catch it again online in the archive a day or two later at www.byuradio.org/appleseed
Check it out if you want to!
And if you are wondering what the heck I'm talking about, look at my previous post called "Defining Moments."
The “Defining Moments” class stories will air today, as our engineer just finished the editing in time. The show airs at noon and again at 9pm on SiriusXM ch. 143 or online at www.byuradio.org. They can always catch it again online in the archive a day or two later at www.byuradio.org/appleseed
Check it out if you want to!
And if you are wondering what the heck I'm talking about, look at my previous post called "Defining Moments."
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Defining Moments
For my English class today, we did a radio session with The Apple Seed, which is basically an hour long show about story telling. We each took turns sharing our stories about defining moments in our lives. I'm not sure when they're going to air the show, but you're all welcome to listen to it. Here's a shortened link to get you to their website. http://bit.ly/1k9ZtaL
I'll give you the written version of my defining moment that I shared. Let me take you back to second grade, a little room filled with little desks filled with little people. It was time for our class to go to the library and check out some books. I remember distinctly thinking that I wanted a real adventure. I saw a lot of kids reading some picture books about dogs. As much as I love dogs, I did think, "I do NOT want to read a little dog book."
So I wandered around the library in search of something that would satisfy this book-craving that I had. I spotted a book that I had seen my older sister reading not too long ago, you might recognize the title, The Hobbit. Yeah, maybe a bit thick for a seven-year-old, but I really wanted to know what a hobbit was and what sort of things were going to happen in this story.
I took my book up to the librarian's desk and waited for her to check the book out to me. But she didn't. She looked at me, or perhaps towered over me is a better expression. I've always been on the short side, and when I remember this moment, it was like standing up to a mountain, and she peered over the edge of her gold-rimmed glasses. "You can't read that book." She said it simply, and my jaw literally dropped. What did she mean that I can't read the book? I didn't want to read any other book but that one! And I didn't even know that adults could tell children what books they could and couldn't read. The thought had just never occurred to me.
After a moment, she asked me to open it up to the middle of the book and start reading, and if I could read it then she would let me check it out. Fine! I thought, I will! And I did. And she let me check the book out. Now, I don't want you to think that I read and understood The Hobbit completely when I was seven because I did get bored halfway through and return it. But I knew that in another year or two, I would be able to finish it and enjoy it, and sure enough that's what happened.
So why is this a defining moment? I didn't realize at the time that the librarian was testing me and my knowledge of language when she had me read out loud. I thought that she was just being a malicious, evil librarian, but I don't think that was her intention. I realized though, that I was good at reading and that I really could read whatever I wanted. From that moment on, I just wanted to read more books, bigger books, more complex books. Of course, every book that I read had to be a fantasy, but I made an exception for the Nancy Drew books. I did like those a lot. But from that point on, I knew that I could read anything, and reading became a thousand different adventures.
Oh, and the school librarian never again questioned me about any book. I guess I made my point.
I'll give you the written version of my defining moment that I shared. Let me take you back to second grade, a little room filled with little desks filled with little people. It was time for our class to go to the library and check out some books. I remember distinctly thinking that I wanted a real adventure. I saw a lot of kids reading some picture books about dogs. As much as I love dogs, I did think, "I do NOT want to read a little dog book."
So I wandered around the library in search of something that would satisfy this book-craving that I had. I spotted a book that I had seen my older sister reading not too long ago, you might recognize the title, The Hobbit. Yeah, maybe a bit thick for a seven-year-old, but I really wanted to know what a hobbit was and what sort of things were going to happen in this story.
I took my book up to the librarian's desk and waited for her to check the book out to me. But she didn't. She looked at me, or perhaps towered over me is a better expression. I've always been on the short side, and when I remember this moment, it was like standing up to a mountain, and she peered over the edge of her gold-rimmed glasses. "You can't read that book." She said it simply, and my jaw literally dropped. What did she mean that I can't read the book? I didn't want to read any other book but that one! And I didn't even know that adults could tell children what books they could and couldn't read. The thought had just never occurred to me.
After a moment, she asked me to open it up to the middle of the book and start reading, and if I could read it then she would let me check it out. Fine! I thought, I will! And I did. And she let me check the book out. Now, I don't want you to think that I read and understood The Hobbit completely when I was seven because I did get bored halfway through and return it. But I knew that in another year or two, I would be able to finish it and enjoy it, and sure enough that's what happened.
So why is this a defining moment? I didn't realize at the time that the librarian was testing me and my knowledge of language when she had me read out loud. I thought that she was just being a malicious, evil librarian, but I don't think that was her intention. I realized though, that I was good at reading and that I really could read whatever I wanted. From that moment on, I just wanted to read more books, bigger books, more complex books. Of course, every book that I read had to be a fantasy, but I made an exception for the Nancy Drew books. I did like those a lot. But from that point on, I knew that I could read anything, and reading became a thousand different adventures.
Oh, and the school librarian never again questioned me about any book. I guess I made my point.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Freedom!
As soon as I wrote that title, I couldn't help but think of Braveheart. But I pretty much want to shout it out and do a little dance. Why? I withdrew from a class yesterday (an Italian one)! It's such a relief! I'm an English major, so why was I taking so many Italian classes? Well, I was planning on getting the Italian certificate, but I found that I was spending more time doing my Italian homework than doing my English homework, and I'm in my senior English class for heaven's sake! And on top of that, it's one of the coolest English classes I have ever taken, so it made me sad that I couldn't devote as much time to it as I needed to. But now I can!
And tonight, I'm actually going to watch a movie! My social life, though not too grand before, has pretty much gone to nothing. This is what I did on the weekend: Go shopping for my groceries (leaving at 6:30am!), then go to campus and study, eat lunch, study some more, go home. And even then, I was never able to catch up enough in this class that I just dropped. Now, I actually do something fun and even *gasp* go out with friends or *bigger gasp* go on a date. Of course, it's still going to be busy, but I think I'll be able to write more too! I wasn't getting any writing done except the academic sort.
This definitely isn't as epic as Braveheart, but I just feel so great! I had to tell the world that I'm free! So take some time to celebrate today--do something fun.
And tonight, I'm actually going to watch a movie! My social life, though not too grand before, has pretty much gone to nothing. This is what I did on the weekend: Go shopping for my groceries (leaving at 6:30am!), then go to campus and study, eat lunch, study some more, go home. And even then, I was never able to catch up enough in this class that I just dropped. Now, I actually do something fun and even *gasp* go out with friends or *bigger gasp* go on a date. Of course, it's still going to be busy, but I think I'll be able to write more too! I wasn't getting any writing done except the academic sort.
This definitely isn't as epic as Braveheart, but I just feel so great! I had to tell the world that I'm free! So take some time to celebrate today--do something fun.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Maladaptive Bind
I just finished Sarah E. Seeley's book, Maladaptive Bind, and I must say that I enjoyed the read! I don't want to give away too much of the story for those who haven't read it, but I was particularly interested in the internal conflict of the main character.
Angela (the protagonist) is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as LDS or Mormons. As a member of this church myself, it was very interesting to be in Angela's point of view as she encounters a darkness that she had never imagined and struggles with her desire to embrace it but at the same time push it away. A huge part of the struggle involves her own physical transformation into something she considers a monster and the emotions and desires that accompany the physical change.
I mean, it's difficult enough at times to obey God's commandments as a normal human being. So what would happen if our bodies changed yet again, bringing with them a change in needs and a changed mindset? How much more difficult would it be to control our actions and our emotions? You can't help but sympathize with her as she battles within herself to live as she did before.
It was definitely worth the read!
You can get it in paperback or on your kindle at Amazon:
http://amzn.to/1cdBDmp
Or it's also at Barnes and Noble
http://bit.ly/1k1IFT2
Angela (the protagonist) is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as LDS or Mormons. As a member of this church myself, it was very interesting to be in Angela's point of view as she encounters a darkness that she had never imagined and struggles with her desire to embrace it but at the same time push it away. A huge part of the struggle involves her own physical transformation into something she considers a monster and the emotions and desires that accompany the physical change.
I mean, it's difficult enough at times to obey God's commandments as a normal human being. So what would happen if our bodies changed yet again, bringing with them a change in needs and a changed mindset? How much more difficult would it be to control our actions and our emotions? You can't help but sympathize with her as she battles within herself to live as she did before.
It was definitely worth the read!
You can get it in paperback or on your kindle at Amazon:
http://amzn.to/1cdBDmp
Or it's also at Barnes and Noble
http://bit.ly/1k1IFT2
Saturday, February 22, 2014
My Personal Shakespeare
Today ended up quite interesting. Let me tell you the story. In the middle of reading that Jack Zipes article that I mentioned in the last post, a random guy comes up to me and just says, "This is for you, bye!" It was just a few words written on a note card that said, "I love you! Study hard now and then have fun later. You rock!!" I have absolutely no idea who this guy was, but I assume he had a small stack of note cards and was handing them out to random people studying in the library.
I thought it was funny, and I showed my roommate when she came out to see me (she works in the media center, and I tend to study right outside of there). At this point, another guy sat across from me at the table and asked to see the card, and he chuckled at it. Then, after about 20 minutes, he slides a piece of paper and a pencil over to me and says, "Here's another one for you."
What was it? To my utter surprise, he had written a poem about me while sitting there. It was pretty clever actually, and he wanted to know if I was single. I started to freak out just a little at this point. This type of thing never happens to me, and my mind honestly went blank as I tried to think of a witty response. I managed to get out four lines of poetry and give him my number (20 seconds of courage, right?). Definitely single.
We went back and forth, writing poems until he had to go. He asked me out for 7:30 tonight, but I already made plans to see a show, so that was a no go. He didn't tell me his name, but he took down my number and said that he would text me sometime (probably also in rhyming verse).
I was kind of dumbfounded at this point, and of course, it was kind of difficult to concentrate, so I left too. And I was trying so hard to not look at him and be super awkward that I don't think I got a really good look at him. I think I was pretty awkward anyway. That's the story of my life when it comes to attractive men--I get awkward. This was only augmented by the fact that when I lived in Italy for a year and a half, it was for a mission, and I was basically sworn off of dating until I got back. Granted, it's been almost a year now, and I have gone on dates, but the awkwardness remains.
I really don't know if he's going to ask me out again, and maybe I just acted like a complete idiot, but it was pretty exciting. Even if he doesn't, that made my day! It would be the perfect way for someone to ask me out, since I'm an English major and I greatly admire wit. But for now, he remains my elusive, personal Shakespeare.
I thought it was funny, and I showed my roommate when she came out to see me (she works in the media center, and I tend to study right outside of there). At this point, another guy sat across from me at the table and asked to see the card, and he chuckled at it. Then, after about 20 minutes, he slides a piece of paper and a pencil over to me and says, "Here's another one for you."
What was it? To my utter surprise, he had written a poem about me while sitting there. It was pretty clever actually, and he wanted to know if I was single. I started to freak out just a little at this point. This type of thing never happens to me, and my mind honestly went blank as I tried to think of a witty response. I managed to get out four lines of poetry and give him my number (20 seconds of courage, right?). Definitely single.
We went back and forth, writing poems until he had to go. He asked me out for 7:30 tonight, but I already made plans to see a show, so that was a no go. He didn't tell me his name, but he took down my number and said that he would text me sometime (probably also in rhyming verse).
I was kind of dumbfounded at this point, and of course, it was kind of difficult to concentrate, so I left too. And I was trying so hard to not look at him and be super awkward that I don't think I got a really good look at him. I think I was pretty awkward anyway. That's the story of my life when it comes to attractive men--I get awkward. This was only augmented by the fact that when I lived in Italy for a year and a half, it was for a mission, and I was basically sworn off of dating until I got back. Granted, it's been almost a year now, and I have gone on dates, but the awkwardness remains.
I really don't know if he's going to ask me out again, and maybe I just acted like a complete idiot, but it was pretty exciting. Even if he doesn't, that made my day! It would be the perfect way for someone to ask me out, since I'm an English major and I greatly admire wit. But for now, he remains my elusive, personal Shakespeare.
Why Fantasy Matters Too Much
I thought that today would be pretty ordinary and boring, wake up, go to the gym, get ready, go to campus to do research, blah, blah, blah. It was pretty ordinary and boring up to that point, doing some research on campus, because it just so happens that I'm doing research for my senior English paper and the subject matter must have something to do with fairy tales. My class is actually called, "The Fairy Tale," so I'm not kidding.
I'm in one of those predicaments where I feel like I've been writing too many papers, and my creative energy feels like it's draining fast. In this class, which I enjoy more than any other, why is it that I can't think of a good paper topic? Everything about this class is fascinating and interesting, and in all of the everything, it's so hard to settle down on a specific something. But my fancy was struck the other day by a particular retelling of the "Hansel and Gretel" story, but this one was set in modern Italy.
Perfect, right? I guess, for those who don't know me very well, I lived in Italy for a year and a half, and I love love love most Italian things. This fairy tale was particularly interesting, though. Unlike most of the fairy tales we read in class, this one read just like a middle-grade novel, except it was only six or seven pages. I knew that some of the fairy tales were not originally meant for children, but the fact that I have not yet read a fairy tale in that class where the child was the hero (until "Nino and Nina" by Gianni Rodari) made me wonder if, in fact, most fairy tales were actually intended for adults.
I began looking for the origins of the middle-grade novel. When exactly did people start writing for kids, and were fairy tales an influence in that? It may not sound like a paper topic yet, but I'm working off of this idea. And, getting back to when I was starting my research in the library, I stumbled across an article called, "Why Fantasy Matters Too Much," by Jack Zipes, a well-known name in the field of folklore. I don't have too much time to summarize the article, but I'll share some of my favorite quotes from there:
"It is through fantasy that we have always sought to make sense of the world, not through reason. Reason matters, but fantasy matters more" (78).
"In fact, much of what we call fantasy is predictable schlock and tritely conventional because it lacks critical reflection and self-reflection and appeals to market conditions and audience delusions" (81).
"If fantasy can be subversive and resistant to existing social conditions, then it wants to undermine what passes for normality, to expose the contradictions of civil society, and to right the world out-of-joint-in the name of humanity" (82).
"It's effect [the effect of the fantastic] cannot be totally predetermined or determined, except to say that a reader and viewer will always be impelled by the dynamics of the fantastic to reflect seriously and imaginatively about the customary ways she or he engages with the world" (83).
"Hope for change can only be created if the fantastic illuminates and exposes delusion" (83).
Of course, he uses the term fantasy in a broad sense, with many different meanings, but it does make me pause and consider the literature that we read and print. To what end does it serve? Do we, as individuals, use fantasy to be deluded or enlightened?
I'm in one of those predicaments where I feel like I've been writing too many papers, and my creative energy feels like it's draining fast. In this class, which I enjoy more than any other, why is it that I can't think of a good paper topic? Everything about this class is fascinating and interesting, and in all of the everything, it's so hard to settle down on a specific something. But my fancy was struck the other day by a particular retelling of the "Hansel and Gretel" story, but this one was set in modern Italy.
Perfect, right? I guess, for those who don't know me very well, I lived in Italy for a year and a half, and I love love love most Italian things. This fairy tale was particularly interesting, though. Unlike most of the fairy tales we read in class, this one read just like a middle-grade novel, except it was only six or seven pages. I knew that some of the fairy tales were not originally meant for children, but the fact that I have not yet read a fairy tale in that class where the child was the hero (until "Nino and Nina" by Gianni Rodari) made me wonder if, in fact, most fairy tales were actually intended for adults.
I began looking for the origins of the middle-grade novel. When exactly did people start writing for kids, and were fairy tales an influence in that? It may not sound like a paper topic yet, but I'm working off of this idea. And, getting back to when I was starting my research in the library, I stumbled across an article called, "Why Fantasy Matters Too Much," by Jack Zipes, a well-known name in the field of folklore. I don't have too much time to summarize the article, but I'll share some of my favorite quotes from there:
"It is through fantasy that we have always sought to make sense of the world, not through reason. Reason matters, but fantasy matters more" (78).
"In fact, much of what we call fantasy is predictable schlock and tritely conventional because it lacks critical reflection and self-reflection and appeals to market conditions and audience delusions" (81).
"If fantasy can be subversive and resistant to existing social conditions, then it wants to undermine what passes for normality, to expose the contradictions of civil society, and to right the world out-of-joint-in the name of humanity" (82).
"It's effect [the effect of the fantastic] cannot be totally predetermined or determined, except to say that a reader and viewer will always be impelled by the dynamics of the fantastic to reflect seriously and imaginatively about the customary ways she or he engages with the world" (83).
"Hope for change can only be created if the fantastic illuminates and exposes delusion" (83).
Of course, he uses the term fantasy in a broad sense, with many different meanings, but it does make me pause and consider the literature that we read and print. To what end does it serve? Do we, as individuals, use fantasy to be deluded or enlightened?
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
My heart is set on NYC
Well, it's official, my heart is set on NYC. You know when you make a decision, but its kind of flimsy? And then as time goes on, you have to really decide? I've been toying with the idea going to NYC since I got back from Italy. I think I acquired a taste for big city life after living in Milan for a while. But last week was a big decision moment.
I keep getting more and more settled on the matter. It's kind of weird to think about leaving everything behind, but it's exciting too. Plus, it's the city where Ingrid Michaelson lives, so that makes it one of the coolest places. I never realized just how much there is in a big city before I lived in one. They're pretty exciting, and there's always something new to find. Plus, think of all of the food! Oh, I can't wait to see what Little Italy is like! If they have real mozzarella, I might just die!
I keep getting more and more settled on the matter. It's kind of weird to think about leaving everything behind, but it's exciting too. Plus, it's the city where Ingrid Michaelson lives, so that makes it one of the coolest places. I never realized just how much there is in a big city before I lived in one. They're pretty exciting, and there's always something new to find. Plus, think of all of the food! Oh, I can't wait to see what Little Italy is like! If they have real mozzarella, I might just die!
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Orson Scott Card
What am I doing right now? Just sitting in the awe and aftermath of Orson Scott Card's keynote address at LTUE. What a funny guy! And his insights about his own life in connection with Ender was incredible. And we have a new edition of Ender's Game to look forward to someday. When? Well, we don't really know. But someday. It will be almost the same except for some minor changes. And instead of just being lucky, according to Card, Ender is finally smart.
Last night there was an epic author signing with the room packed with authors and eager fans, waiting to get their signatures. I bought books (and then had them signed) by Lisa Mangum, Mette Ivy Harrison, Jessica Day George, Joe Vasicek, and Sarah E. Seeley. I also bought an awesome Orc valentine from Sarah. Best valentine ever!
I'm really going to be sad when this is all over, and it's back to thinking about school and my papers. Just a little bit longer and I'll be done!
Last night there was an epic author signing with the room packed with authors and eager fans, waiting to get their signatures. I bought books (and then had them signed) by Lisa Mangum, Mette Ivy Harrison, Jessica Day George, Joe Vasicek, and Sarah E. Seeley. I also bought an awesome Orc valentine from Sarah. Best valentine ever!
I'm really going to be sad when this is all over, and it's back to thinking about school and my papers. Just a little bit longer and I'll be done!
Thursday, February 13, 2014
LTUE
Yes, that's right, it's time for LTUE 32: Life, the Universe, and Everything. Ah, I wish I didn't have class or work or homework and could just spend all day over there. I was only able to go for about an hour today, but I saw some friends of mine there. I ran in to Joe Vasicek first. He's a self-published author and does a lot of space opera novellas. His blog is at http://www.onelowerlight.com/writing/ if you want to check out his stuff.
Then I ran into Sarah Seeley. I know her from Leading Edge Magazine, the good ol' days! I know Joe from there too. Her blog is at http://slithersofthought.com/ and you should all totally check it out. I've actually never visited her blog, so I'm going to check it out too! But she recently self-published her first novel, called Maladaptive Bind. Check it!
And then, of course, I ran into my supervisor! I don't mean from my BYU job, I mean my Cedar Fort internship. His name is Daniel Friend, and yes, he is my supervisor for all of my work at Cedar Fort. Even though we were at a sci fi, fantasy symposium, it doesn't mean that nobody will have a non-fiction book that they want to publish.
Oh, and I ran into my first college English teacher. How random is that? He's a cool guy though, and he taught a rockin' class--I mean, I'm an English major, so that says something, right?
If you're into the sci fi, fantasy scene, you should totally go to LTUE. Registration is free for students, so why not! And I think Annie Sowards (I think she also goes by Anne) is still here for LTUE. She came to my class yesterday and gave us some great info.
I've been thinking about New York a lot lately, trying to figure out what to do when I graduate (just about two months away). I keep oscillating back and forth between wanting to stay here and then wanting to go somewhere else, but last night helped me make an important decision. Annie said that a lot of the publishing houses want you to start at the entry-level positions and move up within the company, so it would actually be the perfect time to go. I'll never be more "entry-level" than I am now, so why the heck not? It was reassuring to hear from somebody that you can move to New York and find a job (probably not right away, but eventually you can get one in editing) and do what you want.
Therefore, after going to my brother's wedding in June and then WIFYR right after, I think I will hop a plane to New York with a one-way ticket!
Annie Sowards at BYU!
Hey everyone!
I have to be really brief, but I just wanted to give a little update since I have a couple of spare minutes. Annie Sowards, one of the executive editors for Penguin Books, just came to BYU! Well, she spoke last night, and she'll also speak today at 11 am. She is an acquisitions editor for their science fiction and fantasy department.
Anyway, I'll have more later on what she talked about. See ya!
I have to be really brief, but I just wanted to give a little update since I have a couple of spare minutes. Annie Sowards, one of the executive editors for Penguin Books, just came to BYU! Well, she spoke last night, and she'll also speak today at 11 am. She is an acquisitions editor for their science fiction and fantasy department.
Anyway, I'll have more later on what she talked about. See ya!
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
How to Survive
I've moved into survival mode. It's cold outside, but there's way too much to do inside anyway. It is indeed the week of death, make that the beginning of the weeks of death. When I say, "week of death," I mean a week full of midterms, or papers--however it turns out for you. I have papers. Right now, I'm working on three of them, and two of them are in Italian.
I suppose I really can't complain too much because I figured it would be like this--two papers in each Italian class and a small paper and a really huge paper in my senior English class. So, I guess I knew what I was getting into when I signed up for it. And the papers are not altogether kill-joys. I'm actually liking how they're turning out. What does get me is that I have to work on them all at the same time.
So, how does one survive the "week of death"? Good question. Ideally, you will have already thought of that and have been working to get ahead for the week of death. But often, even if you do so, you may still suffer. I kick things into survival mode. This means I pretty much go to school as soon as I wake up, eat bits here and there when I'm hungry, and then go to bed once I've finished everything for the next day. Oh, and don't forget the coke! I bought a nice six-pack last night to help keep myself going.
Other possible solutions/alternatives:
1. Build a freeze ray and stop the world.
2. Set loose a basilisk in your school.
3. Sleep through it.
4. Save yourself time--wear the same clothes the whole week (no shower!)
5. Contract some deadly disease (just make sure you live through it)
6. Go to Dagobah (ask for Yoda)
7. Have Scotty beam you up.
8. Do it Katniss style--show them what happened to Seneca Crane.
9. Get Sherlock to take your test for you.
10. Rent a puppy!
One of those should suffice.
I suppose I really can't complain too much because I figured it would be like this--two papers in each Italian class and a small paper and a really huge paper in my senior English class. So, I guess I knew what I was getting into when I signed up for it. And the papers are not altogether kill-joys. I'm actually liking how they're turning out. What does get me is that I have to work on them all at the same time.
So, how does one survive the "week of death"? Good question. Ideally, you will have already thought of that and have been working to get ahead for the week of death. But often, even if you do so, you may still suffer. I kick things into survival mode. This means I pretty much go to school as soon as I wake up, eat bits here and there when I'm hungry, and then go to bed once I've finished everything for the next day. Oh, and don't forget the coke! I bought a nice six-pack last night to help keep myself going.
Other possible solutions/alternatives:
1. Build a freeze ray and stop the world.
2. Set loose a basilisk in your school.
3. Sleep through it.
4. Save yourself time--wear the same clothes the whole week (no shower!)
5. Contract some deadly disease (just make sure you live through it)
6. Go to Dagobah (ask for Yoda)
7. Have Scotty beam you up.
8. Do it Katniss style--show them what happened to Seneca Crane.
9. Get Sherlock to take your test for you.
10. Rent a puppy!
One of those should suffice.
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Lisa Mangum and Heidi Taylor!
Okay, Lisa Mangum and Heidi Taylor were great! I really wanted to ask Lisa about how she balances having essentially two careers, writing and editing, and she said some really helpful things! At work, she works--she's an editor. When she gets home, she's allowed to play with words and write things that she wouldn't do as an editor. She turns that editor-self off and plays around. Physical location seems to play a very important role in that. Interesting.
P.S. - If you're interested in knowing more about Lisa Mangum or Heidi Taylor, check out http://www.shadowmountain.com/authors/lisa-mangum or just http://www.shadowmountain.com
One of my roommates just about died when she heard that Lisa Mangum was in my class. She wrote the Hourglass Door trilogy, and my roommate loves them!
Usually, since Wednesdays are my really long days, I'm pretty tired by the time I get to this class, The Publishing Business. I loved hearing them talk about Shadow Mountain and what they do there. We also got to work on pitches. Some people had some dang good ones! I wrote one up during class since I haven't done one before, and I shared it. I mean, who wouldn't when you have two editors right there who can tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. I was surprised at how long it took me to write my pitch. I mean, granted there wasn't very much time, but still, I kept looking at it and then wanting to reword it. Finally, after like five or six rewrites in fifteen minutes, I knew I had to just say it, even if it wasn't anything super fantastic. One small part of mine was decently good. I think the rest needs to be rewritten or just dumped. Want to see what I wrote? Haha, prepare yourself for something very mediocre!
Deceived on her wedding night, a foreign princess goes from riches to rags. She lights a fire of rebellion and risks her own life in an attempt to save her country and those she loves.
There you have it!
So, what was good about it? They were intrigued by the very first part, deceived on her wedding night. That's the part that makes it different, thought they weren't really sure of the manner of the deception, so that needs to be somewhat cleared up. The rest of it is just really generic. I knew that for sure about the "riches to rags" part.
Basically, I want to make this sound like a good story with familiar elements but that has something unique and compelling. It was a really good exercise! After this, I thought back to the cover blurbs I did at my internship the other day and wanted to look over them again. I probably did some similar things, though not intending to do so.
On another note, I just finished Icefall, and yes, it is a good book! I don't normally read middle grade novels, but I was so intrigued by Matthew J. Kirby and the bits that he said about it--that's what a good pitch gets you! It was a good break from YA, though. The last YA book that I read was too much. You know when you can totally see a huge plot hole and then you just get bored because you've figured out exactly how it's going to end? Well, it went more or less like that. So, it's been a few weeks since I've picked up a YA novel. But, I'm happy to say that after reading Icefall, I'm back on track! Yay! Time to find another good book to read!
P.S. - If you're interested in knowing more about Lisa Mangum or Heidi Taylor, check out http://www.shadowmountain.com/authors/lisa-mangum or just http://www.shadowmountain.com
One of my roommates just about died when she heard that Lisa Mangum was in my class. She wrote the Hourglass Door trilogy, and my roommate loves them!
Usually, since Wednesdays are my really long days, I'm pretty tired by the time I get to this class, The Publishing Business. I loved hearing them talk about Shadow Mountain and what they do there. We also got to work on pitches. Some people had some dang good ones! I wrote one up during class since I haven't done one before, and I shared it. I mean, who wouldn't when you have two editors right there who can tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. I was surprised at how long it took me to write my pitch. I mean, granted there wasn't very much time, but still, I kept looking at it and then wanting to reword it. Finally, after like five or six rewrites in fifteen minutes, I knew I had to just say it, even if it wasn't anything super fantastic. One small part of mine was decently good. I think the rest needs to be rewritten or just dumped. Want to see what I wrote? Haha, prepare yourself for something very mediocre!
Deceived on her wedding night, a foreign princess goes from riches to rags. She lights a fire of rebellion and risks her own life in an attempt to save her country and those she loves.
There you have it!
So, what was good about it? They were intrigued by the very first part, deceived on her wedding night. That's the part that makes it different, thought they weren't really sure of the manner of the deception, so that needs to be somewhat cleared up. The rest of it is just really generic. I knew that for sure about the "riches to rags" part.
Basically, I want to make this sound like a good story with familiar elements but that has something unique and compelling. It was a really good exercise! After this, I thought back to the cover blurbs I did at my internship the other day and wanted to look over them again. I probably did some similar things, though not intending to do so.
On another note, I just finished Icefall, and yes, it is a good book! I don't normally read middle grade novels, but I was so intrigued by Matthew J. Kirby and the bits that he said about it--that's what a good pitch gets you! It was a good break from YA, though. The last YA book that I read was too much. You know when you can totally see a huge plot hole and then you just get bored because you've figured out exactly how it's going to end? Well, it went more or less like that. So, it's been a few weeks since I've picked up a YA novel. But, I'm happy to say that after reading Icefall, I'm back on track! Yay! Time to find another good book to read!
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Typical Tuesday
I wasn't planning on posting every day, but I was so excited last night! I signed up for WIFYR, which is Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers. It's a writing conference nearby that goes from June 16-20. I went one year for free because I was in Carol Lynch Williams' class--I believe that she's the main woman behind WIFYR. But I could only go the afternoon sessions because the morning sessions were legit classes with various authors. That's how you get some good feedback on your writing. Well, yesterday I signed up for one of the morning classes! I was so excited! I wish it were June already and I was graduated!
On another note, I got to do something fun and different this morning for my internship. I worked on cover blurbs! It was pretty fun. I got to review some things I had never read before and write the little blurbs that go on the cover as well as some short and long ads. I know it doesn't seem like much, but I liked it.
On another note, I got to do something fun and different this morning for my internship. I worked on cover blurbs! It was pretty fun. I got to review some things I had never read before and write the little blurbs that go on the cover as well as some short and long ads. I know it doesn't seem like much, but I liked it.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Icefall
I was very productive this morning, and instead of reading for my Italian class, I read a few chapters in Icefall, a middle grade/YA novel by Matthew J. Kirby. I picked it up a few days ago because the author came to a reading series at BYU (the university that I attend) and he sounded really interesting. He read a little from Icefall, a story about a girl in an ancient Norse culture who is trapped on a fjord with some of her father's best berserkers. I'm about half-way through, and I'm enjoying it a lot.
Also, have you ever heard of a speech jammer? I tried it last night. You set up a system so that when you speak, you hear your voice about .4 seconds later. It's supposed to mess with your speech and make you stutter and stumble. I don't think I do it right because I still sounded pretty normal. My roommate sounded pretty funny, at least. After doing that for about an hour, though, it was hard to speak normal afterwards. You should try it sometime.
As a part of my internship at Cedar Fort, I need to come up with nonfiction book ideas. So, to you few who come across this, any suggestions? I have a lot more experience with fiction, but I'm trying to broaden my horizons. Any and all ideas are welcome!
One last thing--on Wednesdays I have a class called The Publishing Business. It's taught by Rick Walton, a picture book author. Every week, a different guest speaker comes. So far we've had Will Terry, Brandon Mull, and J. Scott Savage. This Wednesday, we'll have editor and author Lisa Mangum. I'll make a post on here about what I learn.
Oh, and if you're into fantasy and science fiction at all and are around Provo, the Life, The Universe, and Everything Symposium will be going on in February, but I believe that registration for students ends on January 31st. It's free if you're a student--I'm going!
Also, have you ever heard of a speech jammer? I tried it last night. You set up a system so that when you speak, you hear your voice about .4 seconds later. It's supposed to mess with your speech and make you stutter and stumble. I don't think I do it right because I still sounded pretty normal. My roommate sounded pretty funny, at least. After doing that for about an hour, though, it was hard to speak normal afterwards. You should try it sometime.
As a part of my internship at Cedar Fort, I need to come up with nonfiction book ideas. So, to you few who come across this, any suggestions? I have a lot more experience with fiction, but I'm trying to broaden my horizons. Any and all ideas are welcome!
One last thing--on Wednesdays I have a class called The Publishing Business. It's taught by Rick Walton, a picture book author. Every week, a different guest speaker comes. So far we've had Will Terry, Brandon Mull, and J. Scott Savage. This Wednesday, we'll have editor and author Lisa Mangum. I'll make a post on here about what I learn.
Oh, and if you're into fantasy and science fiction at all and are around Provo, the Life, The Universe, and Everything Symposium will be going on in February, but I believe that registration for students ends on January 31st. It's free if you're a student--I'm going!
Sunday, January 26, 2014
A Grand Beginning
Let's start from the very beginning--it is, after all, a very good place to start. But it would probably take too long, so I'll spare you the drama. I had a blog, long long ago, and I have decided to start a new one. It will give me something to do when I really should be doing something else.
I am an aspiring writer. Will I ever achieve the dream? Maybe. But this blog will serve, in part, to help myself along. Right now, I find that too many things take away from my time. There's school, then there's work, then there's my internship (editing), and then my social life, though that last one is debatable. Don't tell my friends--the fish. Yeah, if you look down and to the right you'll see them. You can feed them if you like.
This April, I will finally finish my undergraduate degree, yay! And then I will be off to bigger and better things! Or so I hope. I've been trying to scope out the New York scene and try to find an "in" over there, but no success so far. If I can't do that and be an editor, I should just move out somewhere random and finally finish writing my book.
I know, it seems like everybody you talk to is writing a book. But really, how many of them are actually going to buckle down, finish it, revise it, revise it again, and then maybe (with a lot of luck) find an agent or an editor. I don't claim to be any sort of pro at this. I'm horrible at finishing my stuff. But I've realized that the biggest thing that stops me is myself.
I used to start writing something, and then I'd stop after a few pages, disgusted that I didn't sound more like a "real" author. Now, after meeting some authors and going to some symposiums, I've realized that they really are just people like me, and they've churned out more than one crappy story that will never see the light of day. The difference is that they keep going. They work at it, hard! I have to remember that my first draft is not written in stone. Man is that hard for my editor self! Writing without caring too much about the quality of my work has been a work in progress. I've written lots and lots of papers for school, and I'm used to being able to write something fairly decent on the first go. But a novel is so very different from an essay.
Right now, I'm in what some might call the murky middle. That seems to be the hardest part for me, when I'd most like to give up and start on something new. This is the moment when my "not caring" is put to the test. If I care about it too much, it loses the fun, the adventure of discovering the characters and exploring a new world. That's when I stop. I start thinking about what everyone else would think about it. So I simply do my best to not care. Screw them, write for yourself. There's plenty of time to think about that after the novel is finished.
I am an aspiring writer. Will I ever achieve the dream? Maybe. But this blog will serve, in part, to help myself along. Right now, I find that too many things take away from my time. There's school, then there's work, then there's my internship (editing), and then my social life, though that last one is debatable. Don't tell my friends--the fish. Yeah, if you look down and to the right you'll see them. You can feed them if you like.
This April, I will finally finish my undergraduate degree, yay! And then I will be off to bigger and better things! Or so I hope. I've been trying to scope out the New York scene and try to find an "in" over there, but no success so far. If I can't do that and be an editor, I should just move out somewhere random and finally finish writing my book.
I know, it seems like everybody you talk to is writing a book. But really, how many of them are actually going to buckle down, finish it, revise it, revise it again, and then maybe (with a lot of luck) find an agent or an editor. I don't claim to be any sort of pro at this. I'm horrible at finishing my stuff. But I've realized that the biggest thing that stops me is myself.
I used to start writing something, and then I'd stop after a few pages, disgusted that I didn't sound more like a "real" author. Now, after meeting some authors and going to some symposiums, I've realized that they really are just people like me, and they've churned out more than one crappy story that will never see the light of day. The difference is that they keep going. They work at it, hard! I have to remember that my first draft is not written in stone. Man is that hard for my editor self! Writing without caring too much about the quality of my work has been a work in progress. I've written lots and lots of papers for school, and I'm used to being able to write something fairly decent on the first go. But a novel is so very different from an essay.
Right now, I'm in what some might call the murky middle. That seems to be the hardest part for me, when I'd most like to give up and start on something new. This is the moment when my "not caring" is put to the test. If I care about it too much, it loses the fun, the adventure of discovering the characters and exploring a new world. That's when I stop. I start thinking about what everyone else would think about it. So I simply do my best to not care. Screw them, write for yourself. There's plenty of time to think about that after the novel is finished.
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