Kelli Russell Agodon's Blog, page 7
June 7, 2016
Write New Poems this Summer with Two Sylvias Press! in--- in
Here's something I'm involved in
Spend the summer writing poems! Two Sylvias Press is offering a from-your-own-home/on-your-own-time 4-Week Online Poetry Retreat (July OR August sessions). Annette Spaulding-Convy & Kelli Russell Agodon & Kelli Russell Agodon will be sending out prompts, inspiration, creativity tips as well a free copy of The Daily Poet (or other book of poems) & a new journal to help inspire your summer.
At the end of the session, Annette & Kelli will respond to two of your poems and offer you ideas of where to submit your work.
Because of the personal response aspect, there's only a limited number of spaces available, so if you'd like to sign up, here's the link: http://twosylviaspress.com/online-poe...
Thanks for supporting indie presses!
~ Kells
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
_________________
Connect with Kelli Russell Agodon and Two Sylvias Press here:
Follow on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/agodon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kelliagodon
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelliagodon
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/agodon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________ Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress www.agodon.com www.twosylviaspress.comKelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
Spend the summer writing poems! Two Sylvias Press is offering a from-your-own-home/on-your-own-time 4-Week Online Poetry Retreat (July OR August sessions). Annette Spaulding-Convy & Kelli Russell Agodon & Kelli Russell Agodon will be sending out prompts, inspiration, creativity tips as well a free copy of The Daily Poet (or other book of poems) & a new journal to help inspire your summer.
At the end of the session, Annette & Kelli will respond to two of your poems and offer you ideas of where to submit your work.
Because of the personal response aspect, there's only a limited number of spaces available, so if you'd like to sign up, here's the link: http://twosylviaspress.com/online-poe...
Thanks for supporting indie presses!
~ Kells
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
_________________
Connect with Kelli Russell Agodon and Two Sylvias Press here:
Follow on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/agodon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kelliagodon
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelliagodon
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/agodon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________ Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress www.agodon.com www.twosylviaspress.comKelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
March 3, 2016
The NEW Editor of NY Times Magazine's Poetry Column is Matthew Zapruder @matthewzapruder CONGRATS!
This just in...
Saint Mary's College Professor, Acclaimed Poet, Matthew Zapruder
Named New York Times Magazine's New Poetry Column Editor
Saint Mary's College of California English professor and critically acclaimed poet Matthew Zapruder has been named the new poetry column editor for The New York Times Magazine. As the column editor, Zapruder will select and introduce poems each week for the prestigious 120-year-old national Sunday magazine. Zapruder succeeds former U.S. Poet Laureate and Emory University Professor Natasha Trethewey. His appointment begins March 6, 2016 and runs until the spring of 2017.
School of Liberal Arts Dean Sheila Hassell Hughes said Zapruder's latest honor is an inspiration to his students and to all in the Saint Mary's community. “Matthew is a rising poetry rock star. His work is terrific and is garnering all kinds of recognition. What's especially wonderful for us is that his first thought is always, ‘How can I use this experience to benefit Saint Mary’s students?”
An associate professor in Saint Mary's English Department, Zapruder teaches in and directs the College's MFA in Creative Writing Program, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. He said he is thrilled to have the opportunity to share poetry with the magazine’s large online audience and nearly 4 million print readers, who come to the newspaper for the news of the world.
“I like the idea that someone would turn the page of The New York Times Magazine and see a poem, and that those words in the poem would have a chance to follow up on, refract, amplify, reconfigure, the language of culture and news,” said Zapruder. “The poem gets a chance to exist in a place that is not isolated or rarified. It gets to be a part of life, and we get to read it that way, too.”
Zapruder is the author of several collections of poetry, including Sun Bear (2014), Come on All You Ghosts (2010), The Pajamaist(2006), and American Linden (2002), For You in Full Bloom (2009), a collaboration with painter Chris Uphues, and Secret Weapon: Selected Late Poems (2008), Romanian poet Eugen Jebeleanu’s last collection, which he co-translated with historian Radu Ioanid.
His poems have been included in the anthologies Best American Poetry (2013, 2009), Third Rail: The Poetry of Rock and Roll(2007), and Legitimate Dangers: American Poets of the New Century (2006), as well as Poets on Teaching: A Sourcebook (2010).Why Poetry, a book of prose about reading poetry for a general audience, is forthcoming in early 2017.Zapruder’s poetry has also been adapted by some of America’s most exciting young composers. In fall 2012, his poetry was adapted and performed at Carnegie Hall by composer Gabriel Kahane and Brooklyn Rider, with a recording of those works forthcoming in 2016. Composer Missy Mazzoli, along with Victoire and Glenn Kotche, performed “Vespers for a New Dark Age,” a piece commissioned by Carnegie Hall for the 2014 Ecstatic Music Festival, and was released as a recording on New Amsterdam records in spring 2015.
He is also the recipient of many honors including a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Lannan Foundation Residency Fellowship, the William Carlos Williams Award from the Poetry Society of America, and the May Sarton Prize from the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Zapruder lives with his family in Oakland and is also editor at large for Wave Books, one of America’s premier independent poetry presses.
About Saint Mary's MFA Program in Creative Writing
Founded in 1995, the MFA Program in Creative Writing is a two-year course of study leading to a graduate degree in creative fiction, nonfiction or poetry. MFA program alumni have published over 60 books, published in numerous journals and periodicals and won many distinguished literary prizes. After 20 years, the program continues to thrive, distinguishing itself with its award-winning faculty and opportunities for students in the areas of teaching, publishing, and community engagement. Noted poet and Saint Mary’s English Professor Matthew Zapruder directs the program. For more information visit stmarys-ca.edu/mfa-in-creative-writing.
~ Kells
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
_________________
Connect with Kelli Russell Agodon and Two Sylvias Press here:
Follow on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/agodon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kelliagodon
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelliagodon
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/agodon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________ Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress www.agodon.com www.twosylviaspress.comKelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
Saint Mary's College Professor, Acclaimed Poet, Matthew Zapruder
Named New York Times Magazine's New Poetry Column Editor
Saint Mary's College of California English professor and critically acclaimed poet Matthew Zapruder has been named the new poetry column editor for The New York Times Magazine. As the column editor, Zapruder will select and introduce poems each week for the prestigious 120-year-old national Sunday magazine. Zapruder succeeds former U.S. Poet Laureate and Emory University Professor Natasha Trethewey. His appointment begins March 6, 2016 and runs until the spring of 2017.
School of Liberal Arts Dean Sheila Hassell Hughes said Zapruder's latest honor is an inspiration to his students and to all in the Saint Mary's community. “Matthew is a rising poetry rock star. His work is terrific and is garnering all kinds of recognition. What's especially wonderful for us is that his first thought is always, ‘How can I use this experience to benefit Saint Mary’s students?”An associate professor in Saint Mary's English Department, Zapruder teaches in and directs the College's MFA in Creative Writing Program, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. He said he is thrilled to have the opportunity to share poetry with the magazine’s large online audience and nearly 4 million print readers, who come to the newspaper for the news of the world.
“I like the idea that someone would turn the page of The New York Times Magazine and see a poem, and that those words in the poem would have a chance to follow up on, refract, amplify, reconfigure, the language of culture and news,” said Zapruder. “The poem gets a chance to exist in a place that is not isolated or rarified. It gets to be a part of life, and we get to read it that way, too.”
Zapruder is the author of several collections of poetry, including Sun Bear (2014), Come on All You Ghosts (2010), The Pajamaist(2006), and American Linden (2002), For You in Full Bloom (2009), a collaboration with painter Chris Uphues, and Secret Weapon: Selected Late Poems (2008), Romanian poet Eugen Jebeleanu’s last collection, which he co-translated with historian Radu Ioanid.
His poems have been included in the anthologies Best American Poetry (2013, 2009), Third Rail: The Poetry of Rock and Roll(2007), and Legitimate Dangers: American Poets of the New Century (2006), as well as Poets on Teaching: A Sourcebook (2010).Why Poetry, a book of prose about reading poetry for a general audience, is forthcoming in early 2017.Zapruder’s poetry has also been adapted by some of America’s most exciting young composers. In fall 2012, his poetry was adapted and performed at Carnegie Hall by composer Gabriel Kahane and Brooklyn Rider, with a recording of those works forthcoming in 2016. Composer Missy Mazzoli, along with Victoire and Glenn Kotche, performed “Vespers for a New Dark Age,” a piece commissioned by Carnegie Hall for the 2014 Ecstatic Music Festival, and was released as a recording on New Amsterdam records in spring 2015.
He is also the recipient of many honors including a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Lannan Foundation Residency Fellowship, the William Carlos Williams Award from the Poetry Society of America, and the May Sarton Prize from the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Zapruder lives with his family in Oakland and is also editor at large for Wave Books, one of America’s premier independent poetry presses.
About Saint Mary's MFA Program in Creative Writing
Founded in 1995, the MFA Program in Creative Writing is a two-year course of study leading to a graduate degree in creative fiction, nonfiction or poetry. MFA program alumni have published over 60 books, published in numerous journals and periodicals and won many distinguished literary prizes. After 20 years, the program continues to thrive, distinguishing itself with its award-winning faculty and opportunities for students in the areas of teaching, publishing, and community engagement. Noted poet and Saint Mary’s English Professor Matthew Zapruder directs the program. For more information visit stmarys-ca.edu/mfa-in-creative-writing.
~ Kells
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
_________________
Connect with Kelli Russell Agodon and Two Sylvias Press here:
Follow on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/agodon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kelliagodon
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelliagodon
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/agodon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________ Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress www.agodon.com www.twosylviaspress.comKelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
March 2, 2016
The Poet Tarot?--There's An App For That! @TwoSylviasPress #poetry #inspiration
There’s an App For That…
Some exciting news—
Two years ago, Two Sylvias Press created The Poet Tarot & Guidebook: A Deck of Creative Exploration to an extraordinary response. The cards are beautiful and high quality and we know many other creative people are interested in them. We want to extend our audience so more people could enjoy them. . .
so today we announce—
Two Sylvias Press has created The Poet Tarot App! (And it’s available for both your iPhone or Android phone!)
The app was created for anyone (poets, writers, painters, etc.) working on an artistic project or just when you need a little guidance, centering, or creative advice in your life. Just choose a card and read the meaning, it's that easy.
You don't need to know anything about tarot to find this app beneficial.
The app is easy to use--
For example, think about "What information do I need to know about my latest project?" or "What information would help me live my life more creatively?" Then choose a card. Select "View Meaning" and learn more about your card's insights to your creative quest.
Choose a Poet Tarot card each day, or when you work on a poem or project, or just when you need a little guidance in your creative life. There is no wrong way to use this app!
Now while true tarot fans will still want to have the physical deck of The Poet Tarot, this app allows you to take creativity with you. . .all the time!
You can buy either app (for less than a cup of coffee!) below:
iPhone: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/poet-tarot-creativity-tool/id1086383408?mt=8
Android / GooglePlay: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ionicframework.poettarot606398
_________________
Connect with Two Sylvias Press here:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
Thanks for your support! ~ Kells
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________Kelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
February 23, 2016
Pretty Cool-- INDY 500 looking for a Race Day Poet (and Poem)! #submit
Poets, Start Your Engines!
Indiana Humanities and Indianapolis Motor Speedway issue poetry contest to name Official Poet for the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil
INDIANAPOLIS – Poets are encouraged to submit an original poem for the chance to be the Official Poet for the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil. The winning poet will receive a cash prize of $1,000, two tickets to the race, the opportunity to read the poem at the track during the month of May, and will have his or her work featured in the official 2016 program. A second-place prize of $500 will also be rewarded. Submissions are due by MARCH 21st.
The contest revives a tradition from the 1920s, when an official poem was included in the race day program. This year, it is an initiative of the Arts, Culture & Youth Committee of the 100th Running Host Committee. The purpose of the Arts, Culture & Youth Committee is to create cultural connections between the race and the community, promoting conversation and education around the 100th running.
“From the roar of the engines and cheers of the crowd, to the legendary drivers and track lore, down to the special bond between the city of Indianapolis and racing fans around the world, there is much to spark the imagination of poets and writers,” said Keira Amstutz, president and CEO of Indiana Humanities. “We are excited to celebrate this iconic year by incorporating the power of poetry into one of Indiana’s most cherished traditions.”
Submission guidelines:
Send an email with your poem as a PDF attachment to poetry@indianahumanities.org.
Or mail it to:
Indy 500 Poetry Contest
Indiana Humanities
1500 N. Delaware St.
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Follow these instructions for submission:
Poems must not exceed 35 lines or 350 words.
The PDF of your poem should include the title, but no identifying information (i.e. name).
In the body of the email, include: Name, address, phone number, email address, age and a short (1-3 sentences) explanation of why you were inspired to write your poem. (This will not be included in the judging process – it’s simply for promotional purposes.)
If submitting by mail, include two pages – one of just the poem and title and one with identifying information explained above.
The deadline is March 21 2016. A panel of judges will choose the winner and runner-up. Winners will be notified by April 1st.
Learn more at www.IndianaHumanities.org/500poet.
About Indiana Humanities
Indiana Humanities connects people, opens minds and enriches lives by creating and facilitating programs that encourage people to think, read and talk. Learn more at www.indianahumanities.org.
About the 100th Running Host Committee
2016 is a once-in-a-generation year for Hoosiers. Along with the 100th Running of the Indy 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil, the State will celebrate its bicentennial, the 60th IPL 500 Festival Parade and the 40th OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.
The Host Committee is part of the 500 Festival, a nonprofit organization providing life-enriching events and programs celebrating the legacy of the Indianapolis 500 and fostering a positive impact throughout the Hoosier state. The Host Committee includes 12 full volunteer committees and 40 sub-committees with hundreds of enthusiastic community volunteers. These individuals are charged with working together to celebrate and leverage the 100th Running by enhancing the quality of life for all Hoosiers, elevating the image of the State of Indiana, heightening civic pride, creating cultural connection, enabling social impact and stimulating education. Learn more at www.500festival.com/100thRunning.
~ Kells
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
_________________
Connect with Kelli Russell Agodon and Two Sylvias Press here:
Follow on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/agodon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kelliagodon
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelliagodon
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/agodon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________ Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress www.agodon.com www.twosylviaspress.comKelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
Indiana Humanities and Indianapolis Motor Speedway issue poetry contest to name Official Poet for the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil
INDIANAPOLIS – Poets are encouraged to submit an original poem for the chance to be the Official Poet for the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil. The winning poet will receive a cash prize of $1,000, two tickets to the race, the opportunity to read the poem at the track during the month of May, and will have his or her work featured in the official 2016 program. A second-place prize of $500 will also be rewarded. Submissions are due by MARCH 21st.
The contest revives a tradition from the 1920s, when an official poem was included in the race day program. This year, it is an initiative of the Arts, Culture & Youth Committee of the 100th Running Host Committee. The purpose of the Arts, Culture & Youth Committee is to create cultural connections between the race and the community, promoting conversation and education around the 100th running.
“From the roar of the engines and cheers of the crowd, to the legendary drivers and track lore, down to the special bond between the city of Indianapolis and racing fans around the world, there is much to spark the imagination of poets and writers,” said Keira Amstutz, president and CEO of Indiana Humanities. “We are excited to celebrate this iconic year by incorporating the power of poetry into one of Indiana’s most cherished traditions.”
Submission guidelines:
Send an email with your poem as a PDF attachment to poetry@indianahumanities.org.
Or mail it to:
Indy 500 Poetry Contest
Indiana Humanities
1500 N. Delaware St.
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Follow these instructions for submission:
Poems must not exceed 35 lines or 350 words.
The PDF of your poem should include the title, but no identifying information (i.e. name).
In the body of the email, include: Name, address, phone number, email address, age and a short (1-3 sentences) explanation of why you were inspired to write your poem. (This will not be included in the judging process – it’s simply for promotional purposes.)
If submitting by mail, include two pages – one of just the poem and title and one with identifying information explained above.
The deadline is March 21 2016. A panel of judges will choose the winner and runner-up. Winners will be notified by April 1st.
Learn more at www.IndianaHumanities.org/500poet.
About Indiana Humanities
Indiana Humanities connects people, opens minds and enriches lives by creating and facilitating programs that encourage people to think, read and talk. Learn more at www.indianahumanities.org.
About the 100th Running Host Committee
2016 is a once-in-a-generation year for Hoosiers. Along with the 100th Running of the Indy 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil, the State will celebrate its bicentennial, the 60th IPL 500 Festival Parade and the 40th OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.
The Host Committee is part of the 500 Festival, a nonprofit organization providing life-enriching events and programs celebrating the legacy of the Indianapolis 500 and fostering a positive impact throughout the Hoosier state. The Host Committee includes 12 full volunteer committees and 40 sub-committees with hundreds of enthusiastic community volunteers. These individuals are charged with working together to celebrate and leverage the 100th Running by enhancing the quality of life for all Hoosiers, elevating the image of the State of Indiana, heightening civic pride, creating cultural connection, enabling social impact and stimulating education. Learn more at www.500festival.com/100thRunning.
~ Kells
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
_________________
Connect with Kelli Russell Agodon and Two Sylvias Press here:
Follow on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/agodon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kelliagodon
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelliagodon
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/agodon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________ Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress www.agodon.com www.twosylviaspress.comKelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
December 22, 2015
2015 Reading Year in Review... #TuesdayBookBlog #Motivational
Dear Reader,
I have not been doing a lot of blogging this year, but a lot of reading, writing, and working at Two Sylvias Press.
Because of this, this little blog has fallen to the side. Perhaps other social media is to blame as once something is shared on Facebook or Twitter, sometimes it doesn't make it here.
But this is my favorite use of LONG FORM content, this and Medium, so I hope in 2016 to be at least present on this blog...
I did do a lot of reading this year, here's a bit of what I've read:
2015 BOOK REVIEWS (Part 1!)
Nonfiction:
Not F*ing Around: The No Bullsh*t Guide for Getting Your Creative Dreams Off the Ground by Jeff Leisawitz
First, a disclaimer, I know Jeff personally. But honestly, that only makes me like this book MORE because Jeff *lives* what he writes. He is a creative positive person who brings humor, fun, and motivation into the lives of people around him.
What I love about the book is that even though I feel I have worked hard to live the creative life I've always wanted to live, sometimes it gets lonely and tiring on my own. This book felt as if there was someone else who understands it and ready to share the wealth and reminders of why we do this and the benefits of it. Yes, risk is involved. Yes, each creative life is different. But we forget this and for me, I felt this book is there to hold my hand when doubt sets in. My favorite chapter? Play it Unsafe.
I'm not sure how to say this more formally, but the book is a sweet read (like a sweet ride into the life you want). It's easy and enjoyable to take in and probably the book I would recommend to start off your new year.
You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness & Live an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero
I have written about women need to steer the boat of their own life and stop believing that their wake, what's in the past, is what's steering them. This book is about making choices for a better life. I got this book for my mum (warned her about the language) and honestly, she loved it.
It's totally motivational--in that good way. Not cheesy, but smart. I listened to the audiobook and it was as if I had my own personal peptalk, personal coach in my ear. I have read on Amazon, a couple people didn't like her approach, but I admire how Jen really calls people out for their limiting beliefs and behaviors--and I felt in a positive, look-I-did-this-you-can-do-it-too way. So I'm putting my recommendation behind this book, especially for women.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less By Greg McKeown --
If you're someone like me who appreciates simple living, and realizing *less* is *more* - this book doesn't just dive into how we really do not need a lot of stuff to be happy, but also about prioritizing your time, saying "no" to things that drain you. You have a better life because you choose your priorities and discard the rest.
Sounds simple, but the books acts a bit as a motivator and reminder to living this way. It's easy to get caught up in the busy-ness of the world.
Less Doing, More Living: Make Everything in Life Easier by Ari Meisel
The best part of this book is all the hacks he includes. Ways to consolidate your life, to make things simple. Like IFTTT (If This, Then That) I had no idea about this website, but you can make personal recipes to again, consolidate your life. So you don't have to do things you normally have to do by hand. For example, if you post a photo on instagram and want to tweet it, you can do that. Or if the weather drops to a certain degree in your area, you can have your car turn on... Seriously, if you have the right app, you can make about anything happen.
BUT back to the book-- the book is filled with tips like that. Some won't work for you, or maybe too much money, but many are great ways to make your life easier.
_____________________
That is only about 5% of what I've read this year. More book reviews coming in the next few weeks!
~ Kells
Don't miss a blog post: Subscribe to Book of Kells Blog by Email
_________________
Connect with Kelli Russell Agodon and Two Sylvias Press here:
Follow on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/agodon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kelliagodon
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kelliagodon
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/agodon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/twosylviaspress
Twitter: www.twitter.com/twosylviaspress
Instagram: www.instagram.com/twosylviaspress
Newsletter: www.tinyletter.com/twosylviaspress
www.agodon.com
www.twosylviaspress.com
________________________________________________Kelli Russell Agodon
www.facebook.com/agodon
I have not been doing a lot of blogging this year, but a lot of reading, writing, and working at Two Sylvias Press.
Because of this, this little blog has fallen to the side. Perhaps other social media is to blame as once something is shared on Facebook or Twitter, sometimes it doesn't make it here.
But this is my favorite use of LONG FORM content, this and Medium, so I hope in 2016 to be at least present on this blog...
I did do a lot of reading this year, here's a bit of what I've read:
2015 BOOK REVIEWS (Part 1!)
Nonfiction:
Not F*ing Around: The No Bullsh*t Guide for Getting Your Creative Dreams Off the Ground by Jeff Leisawitz
First, a disclaimer, I know Jeff personally. But honestly, that only makes me like this book MORE because Jeff *lives* what he writes. He is a creative positive person who brings humor, fun, and motivation into the lives of people around him.
What I love about the book is that even though I feel I have worked hard to live the creative life I've always wanted to live, sometimes it gets lonely and tiring on my own. This book felt as if there was someone else who understands it and ready to share the wealth and reminders of why we do this and the benefits of it. Yes, risk is involved. Yes, each creative life is different. But we forget this and for me, I felt this book is there to hold my hand when doubt sets in. My favorite chapter? Play it Unsafe.
I'm not sure how to say this more formally, but the book is a sweet read (like a sweet ride into the life you want). It's easy and enjoyable to take in and probably the book I would recommend to start off your new year.
You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness & Live an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero
I have written about women need to steer the boat of their own life and stop believing that their wake, what's in the past, is what's steering them. This book is about making choices for a better life. I got this book for my mum (warned her about the language) and honestly, she loved it.
It's totally motivational--in that good way. Not cheesy, but smart. I listened to the audiobook and it was as if I had my own personal peptalk, personal coach in my ear. I have read on Amazon, a couple people didn't like her approach, but I admire how Jen really calls people out for their limiting beliefs and behaviors--and I felt in a positive, look-I-did-this-you-can-do-it-too way. So I'm putting my recommendation behind this book, especially for women.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less By Greg McKeown --
If you're someone like me who appreciates simple living, and realizing *less* is *more* - this book doesn't just dive into how we really do not need a lot of stuff to be happy, but also about prioritizing your time, saying "no" to things that drain you. You have a better life because you choose your priorities and discard the rest.
Sounds simple, but the books acts a bit as a motivator and reminder to living this way. It's easy to get caught up in the busy-ness of the world.
Less Doing, More Living: Make Everything in Life Easier by Ari Meisel
The best part of this book is all the hacks he includes. Ways to consolidate your life, to make things simple. Like IFTTT (If This, Then That) I had no idea about this website, but you can make personal recipes to again, consolidate your life. So you don't have to do things you normally have to do by hand. For example, if you post a photo on instagram and want to tweet it, you can do that. Or if the weather drops to a certain degree in your area, you can have your car turn on... Seriously, if you have the right app, you can make about anything happen.
BUT back to the book-- the book is filled with tips like that. Some won't work for you, or maybe too much money, but many are great ways to make your life easier.
_____________________
That is only about 5% of what I've read this year. More book reviews coming in the next few weeks!
~ Kells
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November 14, 2015
My thoughts are with Paris...
~ Kells
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September 24, 2015
Postcard from Aimee Bender
~ Kells
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September 17, 2015
Postcard from F. Scott Fitzgerald (to Zelda)
~ Kells
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September 14, 2015
Postcard from Martha Silano @marthasilano "Poem after Vallejo"
~ Kells
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September 10, 2015
Postcard from Virginia Woolf
(Art by Evan Robertson, buy print here.)
~ Kells
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