Julia Hughes's Blog, page 26
November 19, 2011
An irresistible challenge ...
Crombie's Crocodillo is based on an idea by the late great Jack Bickham, who in addition in penning 75 novels, also found the time and generosity to share his knowledge of the craft with fellow authors. Amongst his "38 Most Common Fiction Writing Mistakes (and how to avoid them)" is this:
"Don't Drop Alligators Through the Transom"
An American friend was kind enough to translate, (actually he was duty bound having recommended the book to me) and I was delighted to discover that a "transom" is something we Brits call a "fanlight." Generally found in older houses, this is a small pane of glass above a door, intended to provide secondary light. Usually they're so high up, they never get cleaned and just sit there collecting dust, and screaming at visitors: Yes the chatelaine of this house is a slut. I hate 'em. And the thought of an alligator crashing through one is absolutely irresistible. Jack Bickham of course was making a completely valid point about introducing something quite unrelated to the story line, (a deus ex machina).
Apparently there are lots and lots of alligators in New York. Even more in Florida, but there aren't that many in London; so surprise surprise! Our story begins with the circus coming to town.
This started out as a piece of flash fiction, promised it would stop at a short story now it's grown enough to be called a novella - Crombie's Crocodillo just keeps growin' and growin'.
Although very much a work in progress, Chapter One is available to read now, and unsurprisingly owes more than a nod to the old style Ealing Studio Comedies, in my opinion. Click here to read Chapter One on Goodreads
"Don't Drop Alligators Through the Transom"
An American friend was kind enough to translate, (actually he was duty bound having recommended the book to me) and I was delighted to discover that a "transom" is something we Brits call a "fanlight." Generally found in older houses, this is a small pane of glass above a door, intended to provide secondary light. Usually they're so high up, they never get cleaned and just sit there collecting dust, and screaming at visitors: Yes the chatelaine of this house is a slut. I hate 'em. And the thought of an alligator crashing through one is absolutely irresistible. Jack Bickham of course was making a completely valid point about introducing something quite unrelated to the story line, (a deus ex machina).
Apparently there are lots and lots of alligators in New York. Even more in Florida, but there aren't that many in London; so surprise surprise! Our story begins with the circus coming to town.
This started out as a piece of flash fiction, promised it would stop at a short story now it's grown enough to be called a novella - Crombie's Crocodillo just keeps growin' and growin'.
Although very much a work in progress, Chapter One is available to read now, and unsurprisingly owes more than a nod to the old style Ealing Studio Comedies, in my opinion. Click here to read Chapter One on Goodreads
November 9, 2011
Making a virtue out of vice, and compliments from insults.
'I think Julia's deeper than she seems.' A mutual friend once confided in another friend. Who couldn't wait to tell me of course. Over the years his off the cuff remark has by turns annoyed and amused me. If we're wise, we only reveal our most innermost self to those we really trust. People you've known a lifetime will surprise with a hidden talent, or desire. Or shock you by confiding an episode they are deeply ashamed of. Any writer who wants to breathe life into their characters understands this. A pivotal chapter in 'To Kill A Mockingbird' has Scout and Jem discovering that in addition to being 'just' a lawyer who can make a will watertight, their father is the deadliest shot in Maycomb County. This allows Jem at least to look at him in a new light.
The mutual friend has fallen by the wayside, so he'll never know that yes, at the time I neutered a secret ambition that one day my writing would be read by someone other than English teachers. Neither can I hope in my wildest dreams to emulate Harper Lee's genius, that doesn't mean I can't at least try, and have fun trying.
Part of the joy of reading is getting to know people, and what motivates them. Even when they act out of character, as J K Rowling's Neville Longbottom does when he attempts to stop Harry Ron and Hermoine from risking their lives, we understand his actions.
With these examples before me, and leaning heavily on advice from Scott Morgan's excellent "Character Development from the Inside Out", I revisited my very first attempts at 'real' writing and felt emboldened enough to release it as a prequel. The first hint that there is more to Rhyllann Jones than a typical sports mad, girl obsessed mouthy teenager comes when he is forced to admit his secret hopes and dreams to Crombie, quietly chipping away at our hero's facade of nonchalance and pretence. At this point too, Rhyllann is allowed to realise that Detective Inspector Crombie is even more dangerous and closer to the truth than he appears. Rhyllann's cousin Wren is also hiding behind a public image. Rhyllann believes him to be hopelessly socially inept, his nicknames for Wren include 'The Pubeless Wonder' and 'Prince of Geeks', which goes to show you can know someone for a lifetime and not really know them. DI Crombie with more experience of life, and the games people play recognises Wren for what he is: A highly manipulative, accomplished liar. And those are just his good points! Joking aside, Wren has some redeeming features; even though those coincide with his own interests, he demonstrates ruthlessness whenever anyone he cares for is threatened. That Wren constantly uses Rhyllann's diminutive, and Rhyllann sometimes addresses his cousin by the Welsh term for brother hopefully demonstrates their closeness.
Some characters only have minor parts; it's impractical to allow their growth to develop naturally, essential as it is for an audience to grasp their function within a few lines without resorting to stereotypes. An author who has this down to a fine art is Stephen Spencer who creates believable cameos within a few sentences. Fans of Mr. Spencer's 'The Paul D Mallory Adventures' will be nodding their heads in agreement. Just in case you haven't yet already downloaded a sample, here's Stephen's description of a man whom it's probably best not to know too much about:
From 'It's Always Darkest':
'"Leave it," the man said, using the "familiar" form of the Russian imperative, as one would with a small child or animal. His voice was quiet, flat and cold as dry ice. It was not a voice that invited further discussion. ... The waitress bobbed her head once in quick assent, and took two careful steps back from the table before trusting herself to turn and walk away.'
Reading those lines, I marvelled at the young waitress's self-possession. I would have run away, so vivid is the image of a dangerous persona.
It's a truism; life and art imitate each other, to a greater or lesser extent depending on your skill at both. For some people, I'll never be more than a walk on character, they won't know 'the real me' only that which I (sometimes inadvertently) reveal. Hidden vices or virtues make even fictional people more human. And over time I've come to accept my mutual friend's remark for what it was; a backhanded compliment.
Scott Morgan's 'Character Development from the Inside Out': Click here to sample or buy
Stephen Spencer's Paul D Mallory Adventures: 'It's Always Darkest' and 'The Devil You Say.'
(Click on titles to sample or purchase).
A Raucous Time is available on Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk for
The mutual friend has fallen by the wayside, so he'll never know that yes, at the time I neutered a secret ambition that one day my writing would be read by someone other than English teachers. Neither can I hope in my wildest dreams to emulate Harper Lee's genius, that doesn't mean I can't at least try, and have fun trying.
Part of the joy of reading is getting to know people, and what motivates them. Even when they act out of character, as J K Rowling's Neville Longbottom does when he attempts to stop Harry Ron and Hermoine from risking their lives, we understand his actions.
With these examples before me, and leaning heavily on advice from Scott Morgan's excellent "Character Development from the Inside Out", I revisited my very first attempts at 'real' writing and felt emboldened enough to release it as a prequel. The first hint that there is more to Rhyllann Jones than a typical sports mad, girl obsessed mouthy teenager comes when he is forced to admit his secret hopes and dreams to Crombie, quietly chipping away at our hero's facade of nonchalance and pretence. At this point too, Rhyllann is allowed to realise that Detective Inspector Crombie is even more dangerous and closer to the truth than he appears. Rhyllann's cousin Wren is also hiding behind a public image. Rhyllann believes him to be hopelessly socially inept, his nicknames for Wren include 'The Pubeless Wonder' and 'Prince of Geeks', which goes to show you can know someone for a lifetime and not really know them. DI Crombie with more experience of life, and the games people play recognises Wren for what he is: A highly manipulative, accomplished liar. And those are just his good points! Joking aside, Wren has some redeeming features; even though those coincide with his own interests, he demonstrates ruthlessness whenever anyone he cares for is threatened. That Wren constantly uses Rhyllann's diminutive, and Rhyllann sometimes addresses his cousin by the Welsh term for brother hopefully demonstrates their closeness.
Some characters only have minor parts; it's impractical to allow their growth to develop naturally, essential as it is for an audience to grasp their function within a few lines without resorting to stereotypes. An author who has this down to a fine art is Stephen Spencer who creates believable cameos within a few sentences. Fans of Mr. Spencer's 'The Paul D Mallory Adventures' will be nodding their heads in agreement. Just in case you haven't yet already downloaded a sample, here's Stephen's description of a man whom it's probably best not to know too much about:
From 'It's Always Darkest':
'"Leave it," the man said, using the "familiar" form of the Russian imperative, as one would with a small child or animal. His voice was quiet, flat and cold as dry ice. It was not a voice that invited further discussion. ... The waitress bobbed her head once in quick assent, and took two careful steps back from the table before trusting herself to turn and walk away.'
Reading those lines, I marvelled at the young waitress's self-possession. I would have run away, so vivid is the image of a dangerous persona.
It's a truism; life and art imitate each other, to a greater or lesser extent depending on your skill at both. For some people, I'll never be more than a walk on character, they won't know 'the real me' only that which I (sometimes inadvertently) reveal. Hidden vices or virtues make even fictional people more human. And over time I've come to accept my mutual friend's remark for what it was; a backhanded compliment.
Scott Morgan's 'Character Development from the Inside Out': Click here to sample or buy
Stephen Spencer's Paul D Mallory Adventures: 'It's Always Darkest' and 'The Devil You Say.'
(Click on titles to sample or purchase).
A Raucous Time is available on Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk for
October 21, 2011
Winning Life's Lottery
Every morning I wake up and think 'Result!' Because life's a lottery, and no-one has a lease on it, every day spent on this earth is the equivalent of winning against all odds. Fate's quirky; for example, I'd have put money on the Princess of Wales outliving the old Queen Mum. If only Diana had taken time to buckle her seat belt, chances are she'd be with us still. Wouldn't that have made the wedding of the year interesting?
Catching the right bus, or train or ship or even a car window malfunctioning could mean the difference between life and death. As the motorist in this Friday's Flash Fiction is about to discover: 'The Drive of her Life' Parts one and two explores the same journey, with one small change resulting in two very different endings. Click here to read part one, if you've already done so click here and go straight to part two.
Catching the right bus, or train or ship or even a car window malfunctioning could mean the difference between life and death. As the motorist in this Friday's Flash Fiction is about to discover: 'The Drive of her Life' Parts one and two explores the same journey, with one small change resulting in two very different endings. Click here to read part one, if you've already done so click here and go straight to part two.
October 18, 2011
Warning! Teenager about to break out - hints on taming - or co-existing!
First, know the beast. For starters; lemme tell you one thing they've all got in common. Their biggest fear; the one that wakes them up in a cold sweat to keep them gibbering all night?
LOOKING UNCOOL IN FRONT OF THEIR MATES.
Hold onto that thought. It's your greatest weapon in the arsenal I'm about to give you. And oh boy, as their parent do you have a million ways of showing them up, or causing grief.
OK, we'll come back to the many ways on a scale of one to ten on how to keep them in line - from dancing at their barbecue, (on the squirmometer around a two to three) to calling them by their pet name or whipping out the baby photos (score a rock solid ten)!
Before resorting to emotional blackmail, because deep down I know you're a nice person - deep down; we're going to examine their greatest ambition, and explore how you can help them achieve this:
Their biggest desire, what they want - need - covert - more than anything else in the world:
TO BE THE COOLEST DUDE EVER.
If you can help them in this quest, you might find yourself considered 'safe.' This means now and then your opinions will be tolerated, and your pleas to be home before midnight during college days might be heeded.
But, you howl - I'm old (or at any rate middle aged) how do I know what cool is?
Answer: You don't. No-one over the age of 25 with the exception of a very few 'real cool dudes' (think Bowie, Johnny Depp) can possibly be expected to know what 'cool' is. Cool is intangible. A river in torrent changing colours, hues and shape as it thunders forward. And believe me, if you have to ask what cool is, you just ain't got it.
Happily though, there are essential add ons to even begin to cut it. Study your teen. Familiarise yourself with his pack, taking note of the 'gear' they wear, the mobiles they use. Take some time to flick through his reading material - in my subject's case, FHM, Autotrader and XBox 360. Pay particular attention to the small ads, this might give you some idea of what's trending. Do not even attempt to discuss these fads with your kid. Wait.
Sooner or later the words 'Andrew's got a smart phone' or similar will trip out.
This is NOT an invitation to offer your opinion on the latest gimmick (or Andrew). The only acceptable response should be along the lines of 'Really? Are you thinking of getting one?' This will either earn you a look of amazement (My god the old bat's read my mind) or an offended 'No! They're shit! I want the xyz phone.' Whatever the reaction, smile smugly while nodding wisely. You've planted the idea in their mind that you might, just might, be of use in getting the latest gizmo.
Because they're young and innocent and unschooled in the ways of the world, they don't yet realise the hoops they are about to jump through in order to get you to put your hand in your pocket. Once they've admitted their deepest desire to you, (apart from wanting to be the coolest kid in the world), they're yours. To do with what you want.
Oh! Bribery. That old trick I hear you cry. Yes. Bribery. It never fails. Use it wisely.
It ain't all about the money.
Believe or it or not, there are one or two life skills required for coolness that the oldies (that's you babes!) can do with their eyes shut. Top of that list, at least as far as the boys are concerned is driving. No, you probably can't teach them handbrake turns (even if you wanted to). But at the very start of their driving career you can get up early on a Sunday morning (savour it: one of the few times it will deign to grace the world with its presence at an unearthly hour at the weekend) drive to a quiet road or your local industrial estate and (gasp) hand over the steering wheel. Make sure you're wearing your old brown trousers and have taken at least two Valium. Be prepared to add the kid to your insurance. Make sure you have no claims protection. Make sure the kid realises that this is a supreme sacrifice on your part.
There you have it in a nutshell. Work out what they think they need to be cool, then give it to 'em. Or thrash out a way to help them achieve it. Not too fast though. You've offered the answer, you've come up with the goods... the question is - what do you want in return? Whisper the word 'respect'. So you're asking something in exchange for your hard earned cash or precious time. So what? So you've begun to treat them as an adult, a person in their own right. Not a child receiving pocket money but someone who has something to offer the world. If nothing else, you've given 'em confidence.
Whatever cool is, it cannot exist without confidence.
Right! Bribery and being pleasant even if it kills you dealt with! Back to the many ways of embarrassing your kids in front of their mates.
Rule number one: DON'T DO IT. Never ever ever. At least not consciously. In any case, you can only pull the baby photos out once. And your son or daughter will be forever pitied by their mates for having a really sad parent.
Rule number two: Hardly needs saying really. Never ever criticise in public.
Rule number three: Do not nag. Ask them to do something once. Remind them. Take action yourself. For example: Would you mind tidying your room please. Have you tidied your room? If said room remains untidied - then do it yourself. I suggest two or three large black bin bags. Chuck everything in. Yes. Everything. If you're feeling lenient, separate the designer clothes from the empty hamburger cartons. If the black bags become a feature of the room, remove them after four or five days. Your choice. Either hide them in the shed, or put them out for collection.
Rule number four: Whatever you say or do in front of their friends will be wrong. Accept it. Stick to a few words of greeting - the phrase 'help yourself to the fridge lads, I'm spending the rest of the night in my room' is acceptable, though this should be taken for granted. It hurts when you hear 'Becky/Zoe/Ben's mum is really funny/proper safe/jokes man - she got drunk and danced with all the boys.' Suck it up.
Now we're beginning to establish a relationship, or at any rate, declared a truce. You've gained their trust. Now and then it might be possible to get them to look at things through your eyes. Don't do this too often, that would be pushing things. But if you can get it through their skulls that the reason you need to hear from them if they're going to be late home is because you are genuinely concerned (however silly this might be) for their well being. Ditto the need to study, ditto the need to consume something other than McDonald's.
If all else fails, cheer yourself up with the following: It won't always be a teen. One day in the far off distant future it might even have kids itself. And guess what? Yeah. Then they'll be the sad old fart. And you? Well you'll be the coolest gramps ever.
"When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years." Mark Twain (1835 - 1910).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5112587
LOOKING UNCOOL IN FRONT OF THEIR MATES.
Hold onto that thought. It's your greatest weapon in the arsenal I'm about to give you. And oh boy, as their parent do you have a million ways of showing them up, or causing grief.
OK, we'll come back to the many ways on a scale of one to ten on how to keep them in line - from dancing at their barbecue, (on the squirmometer around a two to three) to calling them by their pet name or whipping out the baby photos (score a rock solid ten)!
Before resorting to emotional blackmail, because deep down I know you're a nice person - deep down; we're going to examine their greatest ambition, and explore how you can help them achieve this:
Their biggest desire, what they want - need - covert - more than anything else in the world:
TO BE THE COOLEST DUDE EVER.
If you can help them in this quest, you might find yourself considered 'safe.' This means now and then your opinions will be tolerated, and your pleas to be home before midnight during college days might be heeded.
But, you howl - I'm old (or at any rate middle aged) how do I know what cool is?
Answer: You don't. No-one over the age of 25 with the exception of a very few 'real cool dudes' (think Bowie, Johnny Depp) can possibly be expected to know what 'cool' is. Cool is intangible. A river in torrent changing colours, hues and shape as it thunders forward. And believe me, if you have to ask what cool is, you just ain't got it.
Happily though, there are essential add ons to even begin to cut it. Study your teen. Familiarise yourself with his pack, taking note of the 'gear' they wear, the mobiles they use. Take some time to flick through his reading material - in my subject's case, FHM, Autotrader and XBox 360. Pay particular attention to the small ads, this might give you some idea of what's trending. Do not even attempt to discuss these fads with your kid. Wait.
Sooner or later the words 'Andrew's got a smart phone' or similar will trip out.
This is NOT an invitation to offer your opinion on the latest gimmick (or Andrew). The only acceptable response should be along the lines of 'Really? Are you thinking of getting one?' This will either earn you a look of amazement (My god the old bat's read my mind) or an offended 'No! They're shit! I want the xyz phone.' Whatever the reaction, smile smugly while nodding wisely. You've planted the idea in their mind that you might, just might, be of use in getting the latest gizmo.
Because they're young and innocent and unschooled in the ways of the world, they don't yet realise the hoops they are about to jump through in order to get you to put your hand in your pocket. Once they've admitted their deepest desire to you, (apart from wanting to be the coolest kid in the world), they're yours. To do with what you want.
Oh! Bribery. That old trick I hear you cry. Yes. Bribery. It never fails. Use it wisely.
It ain't all about the money.
Believe or it or not, there are one or two life skills required for coolness that the oldies (that's you babes!) can do with their eyes shut. Top of that list, at least as far as the boys are concerned is driving. No, you probably can't teach them handbrake turns (even if you wanted to). But at the very start of their driving career you can get up early on a Sunday morning (savour it: one of the few times it will deign to grace the world with its presence at an unearthly hour at the weekend) drive to a quiet road or your local industrial estate and (gasp) hand over the steering wheel. Make sure you're wearing your old brown trousers and have taken at least two Valium. Be prepared to add the kid to your insurance. Make sure you have no claims protection. Make sure the kid realises that this is a supreme sacrifice on your part.
There you have it in a nutshell. Work out what they think they need to be cool, then give it to 'em. Or thrash out a way to help them achieve it. Not too fast though. You've offered the answer, you've come up with the goods... the question is - what do you want in return? Whisper the word 'respect'. So you're asking something in exchange for your hard earned cash or precious time. So what? So you've begun to treat them as an adult, a person in their own right. Not a child receiving pocket money but someone who has something to offer the world. If nothing else, you've given 'em confidence.
Whatever cool is, it cannot exist without confidence.
Right! Bribery and being pleasant even if it kills you dealt with! Back to the many ways of embarrassing your kids in front of their mates.
Rule number one: DON'T DO IT. Never ever ever. At least not consciously. In any case, you can only pull the baby photos out once. And your son or daughter will be forever pitied by their mates for having a really sad parent.
Rule number two: Hardly needs saying really. Never ever criticise in public.
Rule number three: Do not nag. Ask them to do something once. Remind them. Take action yourself. For example: Would you mind tidying your room please. Have you tidied your room? If said room remains untidied - then do it yourself. I suggest two or three large black bin bags. Chuck everything in. Yes. Everything. If you're feeling lenient, separate the designer clothes from the empty hamburger cartons. If the black bags become a feature of the room, remove them after four or five days. Your choice. Either hide them in the shed, or put them out for collection.
Rule number four: Whatever you say or do in front of their friends will be wrong. Accept it. Stick to a few words of greeting - the phrase 'help yourself to the fridge lads, I'm spending the rest of the night in my room' is acceptable, though this should be taken for granted. It hurts when you hear 'Becky/Zoe/Ben's mum is really funny/proper safe/jokes man - she got drunk and danced with all the boys.' Suck it up.
Now we're beginning to establish a relationship, or at any rate, declared a truce. You've gained their trust. Now and then it might be possible to get them to look at things through your eyes. Don't do this too often, that would be pushing things. But if you can get it through their skulls that the reason you need to hear from them if they're going to be late home is because you are genuinely concerned (however silly this might be) for their well being. Ditto the need to study, ditto the need to consume something other than McDonald's.
If all else fails, cheer yourself up with the following: It won't always be a teen. One day in the far off distant future it might even have kids itself. And guess what? Yeah. Then they'll be the sad old fart. And you? Well you'll be the coolest gramps ever.
"When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years." Mark Twain (1835 - 1910).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5112587
October 12, 2011
Why you should 'Sweat the Small Stuff.'
Having left school at sixteen, I'm really conscious that there are holes the size of the M25 in my knowledge. Yep. The things I don't know would smother London. So when a programme randomly popped up on the telly the other night promising to reveal the real culture of the southern states of America, you can bet I sat up and paid attention. And the show delivered - books such as Tobacco Road, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof etc., were being discussed by the time I caught up.
The presenter was an American comedian whose caustic wit I'd admired on various chat & game shows. Tallish guy with a face that needs ironing, blue eyed, teeth bad enough to be an honorary Brit. He got going on the great music produced by the South, names such as Ray Charles and boy was he scathing about those who only found the great man's songs from films, saying something along the lines of 'If you can't be arsed to discover this talent by yourself, if you have to wait for the movie to come along, you're just a ruminant, a sheep. And fuck you.'
Which I thought a bit harsh, considering this was a BBC production for a British audience who were actively seeking to discover more about the 'Southern States'. But I admired his passion. One by one the great writers, composers and artists of Dixie Land were examined and compared to Hollywood's Treatment of their art. When the bloke complained that the rest of the world only knew the Southern States from Hollywood's version, I nodded in agreement. I was in this guy's pocket.
Until he came to my favourite novel of all time. It started well enough. The genius of this book he explained, is that it tells its story through the eyes of a child. I nodded eagerly, so far agreeing with every word. Then he broke the spell.
'Six year old Scout and her younger brother Jem.'
I don't know what he said after that. I lost faith completely. He was no longer a man with passion, speaking on behalf of the South. Here was just another actor, spouting words put into his mouth by a team of researchers. The real pity though was that everything the presenter had said before, even his vehement scornful words for those who relied on Hollywood to supply their culture seemed hollow and false. For all I know his comments on 'Tobacco Road' and 'Inherit the Wind' were pukka. But the connection had been broken.
I'd changed from a woman eagerly hanging on my new best friend's every word to a cynical channel hopper.
Have I made my point? Sweat the small stuff. I know hundreds of small fascinating facts about the Titanic I never knew before researching for 'A Ripple in Time.' It isn't hard, when the subject's so interesting. Enthusiasm's great. It'll take you far. But sooner or later, you're going to have to come up with the goods, and if your audience even gets a sniff that you might be faking, all the hard work that's gone before will count for nothing. And credibility, like Darcy's good opinion, once lost is lost forever.
The presenter was an American comedian whose caustic wit I'd admired on various chat & game shows. Tallish guy with a face that needs ironing, blue eyed, teeth bad enough to be an honorary Brit. He got going on the great music produced by the South, names such as Ray Charles and boy was he scathing about those who only found the great man's songs from films, saying something along the lines of 'If you can't be arsed to discover this talent by yourself, if you have to wait for the movie to come along, you're just a ruminant, a sheep. And fuck you.'
Which I thought a bit harsh, considering this was a BBC production for a British audience who were actively seeking to discover more about the 'Southern States'. But I admired his passion. One by one the great writers, composers and artists of Dixie Land were examined and compared to Hollywood's Treatment of their art. When the bloke complained that the rest of the world only knew the Southern States from Hollywood's version, I nodded in agreement. I was in this guy's pocket.
Until he came to my favourite novel of all time. It started well enough. The genius of this book he explained, is that it tells its story through the eyes of a child. I nodded eagerly, so far agreeing with every word. Then he broke the spell.
'Six year old Scout and her younger brother Jem.'
I don't know what he said after that. I lost faith completely. He was no longer a man with passion, speaking on behalf of the South. Here was just another actor, spouting words put into his mouth by a team of researchers. The real pity though was that everything the presenter had said before, even his vehement scornful words for those who relied on Hollywood to supply their culture seemed hollow and false. For all I know his comments on 'Tobacco Road' and 'Inherit the Wind' were pukka. But the connection had been broken.
I'd changed from a woman eagerly hanging on my new best friend's every word to a cynical channel hopper.
Have I made my point? Sweat the small stuff. I know hundreds of small fascinating facts about the Titanic I never knew before researching for 'A Ripple in Time.' It isn't hard, when the subject's so interesting. Enthusiasm's great. It'll take you far. But sooner or later, you're going to have to come up with the goods, and if your audience even gets a sniff that you might be faking, all the hard work that's gone before will count for nothing. And credibility, like Darcy's good opinion, once lost is lost forever.
September 29, 2011
I know some mad crazy people - but this one leaves me speechless ...
Some time ago this man came into my life. He gave hope where there was none, then replaced hope with confidence. Since then he has helped numerous parents whose children have special needs. Now he asks for my help. Frankly, what he proposes leaves me speechless. So I'm going to let him explain in his own words:
"I NEED YOUR HELP...
Most people reading this will know that I am a solicitor specialising in representing parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities and am quite good at what I do (I am rated as joint no.1 in the UK in Education Law by the leading legal directories).
However, I am also a 45 year old man, married with three children (aged 14, 12 and 11) and for the past seven years have been a disabled person with a rare, progressive and degenerative neurological condition known as Cerebellar Ataxia which affects my speech, eyesight and balance and co-ordination and which now requires me to use a wheelchair to get around.
I always like to say to anyone who meets me for the first time that my disability does not affect my life expectancy, my cognition or my sense of humour! In fact, I think that it has actually given me a unique perspective which I consider it fortunate to be able to have - to see everything in the way that it really is and to appreciate all of the things that many other people take for granted. In fact, I only set up my own firm just over six years ago after being diagnosed although I have been practicing in Education, Disability and Public law for over 15 years now. Ironic isn't it what has happened to me considering what I do?
So what has this got to do with you and why do I need your help ?
At the end of the year, in November, Norwood, a charity supporting children with disabilities and helping families in need is again organising one of its famous bike rides in Israel to raise money. It is 380 km over 5 days and is quite challenging. I have always wanted to do something like this but, in recent years, have had to come to terms with the fact that it will now not be possible because of my condition. But the doctors in charge of my medical care advised me early on that whatever I wanted to do in life I should try to do earlier rather than later so I am trying to cram the rest of my life into a few years.
I am worse now than I was this time last year but am better now than I will be in another year's time. With the rate of my deterioration I have realised that if I do not do a bike ride now I may never have the opportunity to do something like this again. So, with the help of friends, I am planning to do the ride in a specially modified recumbent trike. I am going to do as much by myself as I can but, when I am unable to do any more, I am going to be physically connected to the rear wheel of another bike in front of me and we will ride in tandem.
It is unlikely that I will ever be able to do this again and therefore I want to maximise what I can raise for Norwood. If you have a minute, I hope that you will be able to help me/Norwood by sponsoring me and making a donation. You can sponsor me by going to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DouglasSilas. Please help me make a difference both to my life and to other people's lives. "
For some reason Douglas always feels the need to remind me that he is a married man!:) Seriously though, he is my hero. Not only for what he managed to pull off for my son (a miracle - or at least the best chance of an independant life) but also for the tireless work he and his team carry out to ensure that children with special needs have the very best legal advice, so that their parents have the very best chance of obtaining funding for essential support and an appropriate education. Please don't take my word for this. Go visit Douglas's website - a wealth of free information.
Again Douglas is being totally unselfish. Anyone who cycles will know he has a mountain to climb - 380 km in five days - hardly a spin around Hyde Park. Again it is all about supporting children with special needs. Douglas wants to raise £50,000. I know money's tight all round, but if you support any good cause over the next couple of months, please consider helping this very special man achieve his goal.
Once again, Douglas's sponsership page is here: Douglas Silas Sponsership page.
"I NEED YOUR HELP...
Most people reading this will know that I am a solicitor specialising in representing parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities and am quite good at what I do (I am rated as joint no.1 in the UK in Education Law by the leading legal directories).
However, I am also a 45 year old man, married with three children (aged 14, 12 and 11) and for the past seven years have been a disabled person with a rare, progressive and degenerative neurological condition known as Cerebellar Ataxia which affects my speech, eyesight and balance and co-ordination and which now requires me to use a wheelchair to get around.
I always like to say to anyone who meets me for the first time that my disability does not affect my life expectancy, my cognition or my sense of humour! In fact, I think that it has actually given me a unique perspective which I consider it fortunate to be able to have - to see everything in the way that it really is and to appreciate all of the things that many other people take for granted. In fact, I only set up my own firm just over six years ago after being diagnosed although I have been practicing in Education, Disability and Public law for over 15 years now. Ironic isn't it what has happened to me considering what I do?
So what has this got to do with you and why do I need your help ?
At the end of the year, in November, Norwood, a charity supporting children with disabilities and helping families in need is again organising one of its famous bike rides in Israel to raise money. It is 380 km over 5 days and is quite challenging. I have always wanted to do something like this but, in recent years, have had to come to terms with the fact that it will now not be possible because of my condition. But the doctors in charge of my medical care advised me early on that whatever I wanted to do in life I should try to do earlier rather than later so I am trying to cram the rest of my life into a few years.
I am worse now than I was this time last year but am better now than I will be in another year's time. With the rate of my deterioration I have realised that if I do not do a bike ride now I may never have the opportunity to do something like this again. So, with the help of friends, I am planning to do the ride in a specially modified recumbent trike. I am going to do as much by myself as I can but, when I am unable to do any more, I am going to be physically connected to the rear wheel of another bike in front of me and we will ride in tandem.
It is unlikely that I will ever be able to do this again and therefore I want to maximise what I can raise for Norwood. If you have a minute, I hope that you will be able to help me/Norwood by sponsoring me and making a donation. You can sponsor me by going to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DouglasSilas. Please help me make a difference both to my life and to other people's lives. "
For some reason Douglas always feels the need to remind me that he is a married man!:) Seriously though, he is my hero. Not only for what he managed to pull off for my son (a miracle - or at least the best chance of an independant life) but also for the tireless work he and his team carry out to ensure that children with special needs have the very best legal advice, so that their parents have the very best chance of obtaining funding for essential support and an appropriate education. Please don't take my word for this. Go visit Douglas's website - a wealth of free information.
Again Douglas is being totally unselfish. Anyone who cycles will know he has a mountain to climb - 380 km in five days - hardly a spin around Hyde Park. Again it is all about supporting children with special needs. Douglas wants to raise £50,000. I know money's tight all round, but if you support any good cause over the next couple of months, please consider helping this very special man achieve his goal.
Once again, Douglas's sponsership page is here: Douglas Silas Sponsership page.
I know some mad crazy people - but this one leaves me speechless ...
Some time ago this man came into my life. He gave hope where there was none, then replaced hope with confidence. Since then he has helped numerous parents whose children have special needs. Now he asks for my help. Frankly, what he proposes leaves me speechless. So I'm going to let him explain in his own words:
Actually, I can't here on Goodreads. I can only use 1,000 characters and explaining what my mad crazy yet totally heroic friend proposes to do takes a little more space. It is something rather special, like the man himself. If you have a moment, come on over to my place, and read more. http://juliahughes.weebly.com/1/post/...
Actually, I can't here on Goodreads. I can only use 1,000 characters and explaining what my mad crazy yet totally heroic friend proposes to do takes a little more space. It is something rather special, like the man himself. If you have a moment, come on over to my place, and read more. http://juliahughes.weebly.com/1/post/...
September 27, 2011
Look what the postman brought me!
Fast on the heels of winning a new book cover, an actual book arrives in the post. And much as I love my kindle, the sensation of ruffling through the pages and that new ink and paper smell - catching sight of a phrase that resonates - this all conjures up a 1,000 memories of lazy winter nights snuggled on the sofa - my brother & sister squabbling over a board game & Dad watching the telly while Mum's at bingo.
Thank you Carol, I can't wait to immerse myself in your world. http://www.amazon.co.uk/In-the-Bleak-...Carol Rivers
Thank you Carol, I can't wait to immerse myself in your world. http://www.amazon.co.uk/In-the-Bleak-...Carol Rivers
September 24, 2011
The perils of talking to strangers ...
My mother warned me and warned me about talking to strangers. I can't help myself. For stranger read 'interesting unknown entity with a story to tell.' Some call it curiosity, some call it being nosey. Last month I blogged about how a chance encounter with an elderly couple moved me to reproduce Kipling's poem 'The Power of the Dog'. Many of you empathised with this having known the unquestioning love and loyalty only a dog can give. Today I met another couple who were bravely manning a charity stall at Denham car boot. There amongst all the tat and unwanted family heirlooms, they stood their ground with their brave little stall and though by the time I came across them others were packing up to go home and although they were clearly exhausted, they answered my questions cheerfully and with enthusiasm. They told me they came from North London, but their accent spoke of somewhere much further north. Their charity is called 'All Dogs Matter' click here to visit their site.
Their aim is rehousing unwanted dogs and with this in mind run a 'foster' scheme. If you have a moment, please visit their site. If you have any time or money to spare, please consider donating either. From a quick look around this site they are doing sterling work not only with dogs but also potential owners while at the same time educating children to become responsible dog owners.
I think I know now why mum told me not to talk to strangers. They can make you feel totally humbled.
Their aim is rehousing unwanted dogs and with this in mind run a 'foster' scheme. If you have a moment, please visit their site. If you have any time or money to spare, please consider donating either. From a quick look around this site they are doing sterling work not only with dogs but also potential owners while at the same time educating children to become responsible dog owners.
I think I know now why mum told me not to talk to strangers. They can make you feel totally humbled.
September 14, 2011
Adverse Reviews - how do you cope?
To date "A Ripple in Time" has received only positive feedback - at least in its present edition. In the early days bursting with pride I invited comments and some very kind very patient readers opened my eyes and sent me scuttling back to the re-editing desk. We all recognise constructive criticism helps us grow and of course what we take on board from helpful well meaning advice is up to us. When the majority of your test readers report that a paragraph or character does nothing for them, it's probably time for a major rethink - although this is entirely your decision and depends on how mainstream an audience you want - some authors thrive on cult readership and may decide their book is perfect in their opinion and that's really all that matters. Most of us would be wise though to consider our work carefully from another's point of view, which is why each new review is eagerly persued as soon as it's posted by the person we're really writing for: The reader. Our reader. My reader.
So although your heart may sink when you notice the average star rating on your 'product page' at Amazon has gone down this is your call to be brave and honest. Hopefully the reviewer has been generous enough to explain why they've given a three or even two star posting. If you're really lucky they might be kind enough to offer a sticking plaster along the lines of 'this is just my opinion' or 'others might disagree'. So swallow your medicine like a big boy then go and browse the best sellers' ratings and cheer yourself up by noting that even the greats can't please everyone.
To read an extract from "A Ripple in Time" Click here & yes if you're moved to comment I'd welcome your thoughts and opinions!
So although your heart may sink when you notice the average star rating on your 'product page' at Amazon has gone down this is your call to be brave and honest. Hopefully the reviewer has been generous enough to explain why they've given a three or even two star posting. If you're really lucky they might be kind enough to offer a sticking plaster along the lines of 'this is just my opinion' or 'others might disagree'. So swallow your medicine like a big boy then go and browse the best sellers' ratings and cheer yourself up by noting that even the greats can't please everyone.
To read an extract from "A Ripple in Time" Click here & yes if you're moved to comment I'd welcome your thoughts and opinions!
