M.L. Chesley's Blog, page 34
August 2, 2013
Friday Faves & Funnies...
It's Friday and while you are all perusing the web and laughing over my silly funnies, I'll be outside working my yard sale. Hopefully it will go smoothly. There is a new home being constructed right next door and sadly, they're using our driveway for their vehicles. I mean, they really pushed the property lines on this one. I have a bad feeling it is going to hinder my success with the sale, at least on Friday. Saturday may be better, less people blocking my drive.
Anyway, on to the Friday post.
So faves this week is going to revolve around some music. I've decided my faves is going to be a bit random. I'm running out of authors and stuff to use, so whatever piques my interest will be the Fave of the Week.
I hooked my son on Flogging Molly way back when and he took it a step further. Even found some bands I had never heard of. So I've found some wonderful favorites to add to my collection of Flogging Molly and The Pogues. Rumjacks, Chieftains, and Dropkick Murphys. I've actually heard of Dropkick Murphys, but up until my son moved up here with me, never listened to them much. So there you have it. And I'll even leave you a link to a cool music video.
Now! On to the funnies!
Haha! Pirates. Gotta love 'em. Have a great weekend everyone!
Anyway, on to the Friday post.
So faves this week is going to revolve around some music. I've decided my faves is going to be a bit random. I'm running out of authors and stuff to use, so whatever piques my interest will be the Fave of the Week.
I hooked my son on Flogging Molly way back when and he took it a step further. Even found some bands I had never heard of. So I've found some wonderful favorites to add to my collection of Flogging Molly and The Pogues. Rumjacks, Chieftains, and Dropkick Murphys. I've actually heard of Dropkick Murphys, but up until my son moved up here with me, never listened to them much. So there you have it. And I'll even leave you a link to a cool music video.
Now! On to the funnies!
Haha! Pirates. Gotta love 'em. Have a great weekend everyone!
July 31, 2013
End Of Summer, Start Of School...
You know, I got to thinking today that this is the first year I don't have to buy school supplies for my kids.
I don't have to go buy new clothes.
No new back-packs, no notebooks, no pens and pencils. And I'm such a stationery... hoarder... ha!
It makes me happy I don't have to do this, but it also makes me sad.
I used to drive my kids to school on the first day EVERY year. It was sort of a tradition. When my daughter got to high school, she specifically asked me if I would still drive her to school on the first day, even when she was a Senior and could drive herself.
Now, she's got a baby of her own to do that with.
And my son is going to have his own place in a few short days. I've been trying to teach him to cook some main, comfort food kind of meals. You know, meatloaf and such. He can cook, he likes chicken and seasons his own all the time with different stuff. But...
Yeah.
Trying to keep myself occupied so I don't dwell on the stress of all of this too much. I find myself playing silly, mindless games more often than not, when I am not working on my to do list for the move. I have to maintain a semblance of calm at the very least, as it does affect my health far too much.
Meh, not trying to be a downer. Just a bit reflective and working through some of the sadness that just hit me.
Good news is, I'm holding a yard sale this weekend. Send up some prayers that I make some good money to help fund our trip. My house is such a mess! So, I'm looking forward to the sale in more ways than one. Get all of this stuff out of my house. Then packing and having a farewell party. Sadly making everyone bring practically everything for the party, ha ha! Oh well. Then we'll be off like a herd of turtles, as my son always says.
How about you? Have kids to get ready for school, or are you facing this same issue?
I don't have to go buy new clothes.
No new back-packs, no notebooks, no pens and pencils. And I'm such a stationery... hoarder... ha!
It makes me happy I don't have to do this, but it also makes me sad.
I used to drive my kids to school on the first day EVERY year. It was sort of a tradition. When my daughter got to high school, she specifically asked me if I would still drive her to school on the first day, even when she was a Senior and could drive herself.
Now, she's got a baby of her own to do that with.
And my son is going to have his own place in a few short days. I've been trying to teach him to cook some main, comfort food kind of meals. You know, meatloaf and such. He can cook, he likes chicken and seasons his own all the time with different stuff. But...
Yeah.
Trying to keep myself occupied so I don't dwell on the stress of all of this too much. I find myself playing silly, mindless games more often than not, when I am not working on my to do list for the move. I have to maintain a semblance of calm at the very least, as it does affect my health far too much.
Meh, not trying to be a downer. Just a bit reflective and working through some of the sadness that just hit me.
Good news is, I'm holding a yard sale this weekend. Send up some prayers that I make some good money to help fund our trip. My house is such a mess! So, I'm looking forward to the sale in more ways than one. Get all of this stuff out of my house. Then packing and having a farewell party. Sadly making everyone bring practically everything for the party, ha ha! Oh well. Then we'll be off like a herd of turtles, as my son always says.
How about you? Have kids to get ready for school, or are you facing this same issue?
July 29, 2013
A Milestone And Late Night Musings...
I have hit a milestone. My simple little blog has had over 100,000 views. I get more and more views every day, it seems.
It's amazing.
Looking back at when I first started this blog, I could literally hear the crickets. Okay, maybe not literally. But I felt as if I was talking to myself. I'm a writer, I'm used to talking to myself. But I still treated this blog as if the whole world were reading it.
I try to be careful what I post. Nothing too inflammatory, no politics, no religious arguments. Just writing and life related. I think it's worked out rather well. And I love it when you all join in on the conversation. Just a few more weeks and I'll be going offline while we move. I'll have a few posts scheduled, but forgive me if I don't reply to comments.
With the discussion of J. K. Rowling and her use of a male pen name for her latest books, it got me to thinking. Dangerous pastime, I know. I still see comments floating around about her choice of gender for her pen name. We discussed it before, the whole male dominated world, etc. Even after the feminine movements and women taking control in the workplace. There is still harassment prevalent in this industry, proven by the goings on over at Tor. It's quite sad, actually. I know the majority of people in my personal circle here don't care if you are male or female and writing. There's mutual respect, which is how it should be. But doesn't mean we women have to start burning our virtual bras anytime soon, either. But what's the deal? I've heard a couple men state that women are only good at writing romance. And this was during a book discussion at a local library. (Not here in Alaska, down in Arizona.) Men are good at writing romance, but that genre is heavily dominated by female authors.
Because I have my picture up on Amazon and on my virtual book cover, my initials don't fool anyone. They know I'm female. I don't have the luxury of hiding behind my initials. Anyone can Google me. (As bad as that always sounds...) Not that I am truly hiding behind initials anyway.
I suppose the point of this post is, what makes authors choose a pen name? If you were to choose a pen name, would you stick with your gender or switch sides? Other than trying to hide behind a famous name or portraying yourself as a more, so called, acceptable gender in the writing industry, why go for the pseudonym? What's your thoughts on this?
It's amazing.
Looking back at when I first started this blog, I could literally hear the crickets. Okay, maybe not literally. But I felt as if I was talking to myself. I'm a writer, I'm used to talking to myself. But I still treated this blog as if the whole world were reading it.
I try to be careful what I post. Nothing too inflammatory, no politics, no religious arguments. Just writing and life related. I think it's worked out rather well. And I love it when you all join in on the conversation. Just a few more weeks and I'll be going offline while we move. I'll have a few posts scheduled, but forgive me if I don't reply to comments.
With the discussion of J. K. Rowling and her use of a male pen name for her latest books, it got me to thinking. Dangerous pastime, I know. I still see comments floating around about her choice of gender for her pen name. We discussed it before, the whole male dominated world, etc. Even after the feminine movements and women taking control in the workplace. There is still harassment prevalent in this industry, proven by the goings on over at Tor. It's quite sad, actually. I know the majority of people in my personal circle here don't care if you are male or female and writing. There's mutual respect, which is how it should be. But doesn't mean we women have to start burning our virtual bras anytime soon, either. But what's the deal? I've heard a couple men state that women are only good at writing romance. And this was during a book discussion at a local library. (Not here in Alaska, down in Arizona.) Men are good at writing romance, but that genre is heavily dominated by female authors.
Because I have my picture up on Amazon and on my virtual book cover, my initials don't fool anyone. They know I'm female. I don't have the luxury of hiding behind my initials. Anyone can Google me. (As bad as that always sounds...) Not that I am truly hiding behind initials anyway.
I suppose the point of this post is, what makes authors choose a pen name? If you were to choose a pen name, would you stick with your gender or switch sides? Other than trying to hide behind a famous name or portraying yourself as a more, so called, acceptable gender in the writing industry, why go for the pseudonym? What's your thoughts on this?
July 26, 2013
Friday Faves & Funnies...
Not to put off the funnies, but been a bit busy and distracted.
I'm going to do a blanket 'Favorite' today. I have to say, I love Amazon and Facebook and Twitter. Why are these things my favorite these days? Because without utilizing those three sites, I'd never know what books go up for free. I've found quite a bit of reading material to keep me busy for awhile using those sites. If I couldn't read, I think I'd go insane.
Wait, already there. Yep, just double checking.
All right, on to the funnies for the week! Feeling kinda Ninja cat again and gamer... Enjoy!
I'm going to do a blanket 'Favorite' today. I have to say, I love Amazon and Facebook and Twitter. Why are these things my favorite these days? Because without utilizing those three sites, I'd never know what books go up for free. I've found quite a bit of reading material to keep me busy for awhile using those sites. If I couldn't read, I think I'd go insane.
Wait, already there. Yep, just double checking.
All right, on to the funnies for the week! Feeling kinda Ninja cat again and gamer... Enjoy!
July 25, 2013
Moving (Need Help)...
As you all know, I'll be moving to Washington soon. We'll be staying with some friends for awhile when we get there and my online presence may be sporadic at best. So I want to make sure you all realize this before I leave.
So, on that note, I'll be putting off book reviews and announcements until I know for a fact I can be online in the same capacity as I am now, which is posting Monday-Wednesday-Friday. I'll be able to do updates and the like.
I'm also posting this up here because I'd like to ask for a little financial help. I don't ask for help. You guys know that. But I have to now. The biggest reason for our move is to get to an area where my husband can do the job he has the skills for. He's a journeyman sheet metal mechanic, he'll be getting his license right away in Washington so he can make the amount of money he's supposed to. He's been working a job right now that has been paying less than what he should normally make. Don't get me wrong, I adore his boss. The man has helped us out on many occasions and I bless him and his family for all his help. My jobs are limited here due to my surgeries I've had, and now also due to my ongoing medical condition.
I have pseudo tumor cerbri. Sounds spiffy, doesn't it? Basically, I have all the signs and symptoms of a brain tumor, but no tumor. Back when I had all those medical issues a couple years ago, that's what was going on. All the testing and CT scans and everything to determine what was wrong with me, plus having a complete hysterectomy on top of it all. I can honestly say, those were a couple months of hell. But my medical bills have taken their toll, finally. Which is another reason for the move. I want to be able to pay these people off.
So, my lovelies, that is my tale of woe. If you could find it in the goodness of your heart to maybe throw a couple bucks my way, I'd be happy to do some critiques for you, or some proof-reading. Just drop me a line and I will do what I can, when I can. I do have a Pay Pal account. My email is paridzule dot keep at gmail dot com. You know, this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to post. But right now, we need the help. We're selling practically everything we own that doesn't have sentimental value so we can move, but we keep getting hit with last minute expenses. Whether or not you can help me out, you'll have my undying gratitude. If you don't have anything writing related for me to do, I'm afraid all I can do is thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you want to be paid back, let me know. I'll do what I can. I'm going to leave this post up for about a day or two, and then I'll be taking it down. So, thank you in advance whether you can help or not. I don't know what else to say without making this even more awkward, so I'll just let it go at this. :)
So, on that note, I'll be putting off book reviews and announcements until I know for a fact I can be online in the same capacity as I am now, which is posting Monday-Wednesday-Friday. I'll be able to do updates and the like.
I'm also posting this up here because I'd like to ask for a little financial help. I don't ask for help. You guys know that. But I have to now. The biggest reason for our move is to get to an area where my husband can do the job he has the skills for. He's a journeyman sheet metal mechanic, he'll be getting his license right away in Washington so he can make the amount of money he's supposed to. He's been working a job right now that has been paying less than what he should normally make. Don't get me wrong, I adore his boss. The man has helped us out on many occasions and I bless him and his family for all his help. My jobs are limited here due to my surgeries I've had, and now also due to my ongoing medical condition.
I have pseudo tumor cerbri. Sounds spiffy, doesn't it? Basically, I have all the signs and symptoms of a brain tumor, but no tumor. Back when I had all those medical issues a couple years ago, that's what was going on. All the testing and CT scans and everything to determine what was wrong with me, plus having a complete hysterectomy on top of it all. I can honestly say, those were a couple months of hell. But my medical bills have taken their toll, finally. Which is another reason for the move. I want to be able to pay these people off.
So, my lovelies, that is my tale of woe. If you could find it in the goodness of your heart to maybe throw a couple bucks my way, I'd be happy to do some critiques for you, or some proof-reading. Just drop me a line and I will do what I can, when I can. I do have a Pay Pal account. My email is paridzule dot keep at gmail dot com. You know, this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to post. But right now, we need the help. We're selling practically everything we own that doesn't have sentimental value so we can move, but we keep getting hit with last minute expenses. Whether or not you can help me out, you'll have my undying gratitude. If you don't have anything writing related for me to do, I'm afraid all I can do is thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you want to be paid back, let me know. I'll do what I can. I'm going to leave this post up for about a day or two, and then I'll be taking it down. So, thank you in advance whether you can help or not. I don't know what else to say without making this even more awkward, so I'll just let it go at this. :)
Moving...
As you all know, I'll be moving to Washington soon. We'll be staying with some friends for awhile when we get there and my online presence may be sporadic at best. So I want to make sure you all realize this before I leave.
So, on that note, I'll be putting off book reviews and announcements until I know for a fact I can be online in the same capacity as I am now, which is posting Monday-Wednesday-Friday. I'll be able to do updates and the like.
I'm also posting this up here because I'd like to ask for a little financial help. I don't ask for help. You guys know that. But I have to now. The biggest reason for our move is to get to an area where my husband can do the job he has the skills for. He's a journeyman sheet metal mechanic, he'll be getting his license right away in Washington so he can make the amount of money he's supposed to. He's been working a job right now that has been paying less than what he should normally make. Don't get me wrong, I adore his boss. The man has helped us out on many occasions and I bless him and his family for all his help. My jobs are limited here due to my surgeries I've had, and now also due to my ongoing medical condition.
I have pseudo tumor cerbri. Sounds spiffy, doesn't it? Basically, I have all the signs and symptoms of a brain tumor, but no tumor. Back when I had all those medical issues a couple years ago, that's what was going on. All the testing and CT scans and everything to determine what was wrong with me, plus having a complete hysterectomy on top of it all. I can honestly say, those were a couple months of hell. But my medical bills have taken their toll, finally. Which is another reason for the move. I want to be able to pay these people off.
So, my lovelies, that is my tale of woe. If you could find it in the goodness of your heart to maybe throw a couple bucks my way, I'd be happy to do some critiques for you, or some proof-reading. Just drop me a line and I will do what I can, when I can. I do have a Pay Pal account. My email is paridzule dot keep at gmail dot com. You know, this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to post. But right now, we need the help. We're selling practically everything we own that doesn't have sentimental value so we can move, but we keep getting hit with last minute expenses. Whether or not you can help me out, you'll have my undying gratitude. If you don't have anything writing related for me to do, I'm afraid all I can do is thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you want to be paid back, let me know. I'll do what I can. I'm going to leave this post up for about a day or two, and then I'll be taking it down. So, thank you in advance whether you can help or not. I don't know what else to say without making this even more awkward, so I'll just let it go at this. :)
So, on that note, I'll be putting off book reviews and announcements until I know for a fact I can be online in the same capacity as I am now, which is posting Monday-Wednesday-Friday. I'll be able to do updates and the like.
I'm also posting this up here because I'd like to ask for a little financial help. I don't ask for help. You guys know that. But I have to now. The biggest reason for our move is to get to an area where my husband can do the job he has the skills for. He's a journeyman sheet metal mechanic, he'll be getting his license right away in Washington so he can make the amount of money he's supposed to. He's been working a job right now that has been paying less than what he should normally make. Don't get me wrong, I adore his boss. The man has helped us out on many occasions and I bless him and his family for all his help. My jobs are limited here due to my surgeries I've had, and now also due to my ongoing medical condition.
I have pseudo tumor cerbri. Sounds spiffy, doesn't it? Basically, I have all the signs and symptoms of a brain tumor, but no tumor. Back when I had all those medical issues a couple years ago, that's what was going on. All the testing and CT scans and everything to determine what was wrong with me, plus having a complete hysterectomy on top of it all. I can honestly say, those were a couple months of hell. But my medical bills have taken their toll, finally. Which is another reason for the move. I want to be able to pay these people off.
So, my lovelies, that is my tale of woe. If you could find it in the goodness of your heart to maybe throw a couple bucks my way, I'd be happy to do some critiques for you, or some proof-reading. Just drop me a line and I will do what I can, when I can. I do have a Pay Pal account. My email is paridzule dot keep at gmail dot com. You know, this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to post. But right now, we need the help. We're selling practically everything we own that doesn't have sentimental value so we can move, but we keep getting hit with last minute expenses. Whether or not you can help me out, you'll have my undying gratitude. If you don't have anything writing related for me to do, I'm afraid all I can do is thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you want to be paid back, let me know. I'll do what I can. I'm going to leave this post up for about a day or two, and then I'll be taking it down. So, thank you in advance whether you can help or not. I don't know what else to say without making this even more awkward, so I'll just let it go at this. :)
July 24, 2013
How I Hate Moving, Let Me Count The Ways...
Okay, so it's not that I HATE moving. I'm actually very excited to be moving back down to the lower 48. I'm on pins and needles. I can't wait to get back to what I call 'civilization' because, quite frankly, I'm a big city girl. At least that's what some of these small town folk called me when trying to present ideas to them. Nope, not bitter, just hate small minded people.
I'm looking forward to actually being able to AFFORD something. I love Alaska, but I hate winters and the cost of living. I will always be thankful to the people up here who gave my husband a chance when we needed it. We actually did really well up here for a while. But the cost of living keeps increasing and our paychecks don't. So I can't help but look forward to getting back on our feet.
However, my 'To Do List' keeps growing by leaps and bounds. My anxiety over having to travel such a long distance, through Canada, with two cats and a trailer... well... that's increasing as well.
So needless to say, my sleep issues have kicked in to high gear. I'm going to be sort of out of it for the next month or so. Please don't think I'm deserting you, my lovely readers. I'm not. But if I don't post as regularly as I was, or I don't agree to book reviews right now, just know I have a lot on my plate.
Just wanted to share this. I don't want anyone to think I am dropping off the face of the planet again. Hope you all have a great rest of the week!
I'm looking forward to actually being able to AFFORD something. I love Alaska, but I hate winters and the cost of living. I will always be thankful to the people up here who gave my husband a chance when we needed it. We actually did really well up here for a while. But the cost of living keeps increasing and our paychecks don't. So I can't help but look forward to getting back on our feet.
However, my 'To Do List' keeps growing by leaps and bounds. My anxiety over having to travel such a long distance, through Canada, with two cats and a trailer... well... that's increasing as well.
So needless to say, my sleep issues have kicked in to high gear. I'm going to be sort of out of it for the next month or so. Please don't think I'm deserting you, my lovely readers. I'm not. But if I don't post as regularly as I was, or I don't agree to book reviews right now, just know I have a lot on my plate.
Just wanted to share this. I don't want anyone to think I am dropping off the face of the planet again. Hope you all have a great rest of the week!
July 22, 2013
Hoppin' On The Bandwagon...
I've been reading a lot of blogs and comments about J. K. Rowling's pseudonym and latest book. All the questions like, why a male pen name? What was the reason behind it all? Things like that.
Well, here's my opinion on the matter...
First of all, it's like labeling an actor. Let's take Daniel Radcliffe, for an example. Will he forever be known as Harry Potter? Most likely. But he is a good actor, and he's done a couple different roles. Same with Emma Watson (Hermione) and Rupert Grint (Ron). They're all exceptional, but forever labeled.
Same could be said about J. K. Rowling. Sure, she's made a cool billion with the Harry Potter series, but here's the thing: she obviously enjoys writing. Otherwise, she would have stopped with the Harry Potter series and skipped all the way to the bank without another book idea popping in her head. She could have just walked away from it all, right? But she didn't. So when her 'Casual Vacancy' got less than rave reviews (because it wasn't Harry Potter), she did what anyone else in her position would do. She took on a pen name.
Good. For. Her.
Hell, I'd do the same.
As for the reasoning behind a male pen name? Why not? There could be lots of reasons she chose to go with the opposite gender. In my experience as a woman (and I'm a pretty good one), it's hard to get anywhere if you have to strap on a bra. One piece of advice I was given repeatedly in my life, from school to possible employers, was to use my initials on my resume. If they don't know if you are male or female, they tend to assume you're a guy and want to meet with you more often than not. Once you get to the interview and they find out you're a girl, well, you've already got your foot in the door.
Same can be said for writing, you know. How often are you likely to pick up a book written by a male versus a female?
It isn't that we're sexist, it's just something that has been ingrained generation after generation.
Even after all the progress we've made as women, it's still a man's world. (Please note sarcasm and don't spam me with hate mail.)
If I were to pick a pen name, I'd probably go male. Hire some cutie to pose for my author pic and laugh all the way to the bank. But, I chose to stick with what I've got. Initials. Then again, I don't have to hide behind a pen name, I don't have the amount of success Rowling has.
So, for whatever reasons she had, give her a break. I've noticed lots of people kinda complaining about all of this. Why? What's the deal? Yes, she's a household name and has had some major success, but come on. She's still a writer! She loves what she's doing enough to go the distance to be loved for what she writes, not how she writes it.
Well, here's my opinion on the matter...
First of all, it's like labeling an actor. Let's take Daniel Radcliffe, for an example. Will he forever be known as Harry Potter? Most likely. But he is a good actor, and he's done a couple different roles. Same with Emma Watson (Hermione) and Rupert Grint (Ron). They're all exceptional, but forever labeled.
Same could be said about J. K. Rowling. Sure, she's made a cool billion with the Harry Potter series, but here's the thing: she obviously enjoys writing. Otherwise, she would have stopped with the Harry Potter series and skipped all the way to the bank without another book idea popping in her head. She could have just walked away from it all, right? But she didn't. So when her 'Casual Vacancy' got less than rave reviews (because it wasn't Harry Potter), she did what anyone else in her position would do. She took on a pen name.
Good. For. Her.
Hell, I'd do the same.
As for the reasoning behind a male pen name? Why not? There could be lots of reasons she chose to go with the opposite gender. In my experience as a woman (and I'm a pretty good one), it's hard to get anywhere if you have to strap on a bra. One piece of advice I was given repeatedly in my life, from school to possible employers, was to use my initials on my resume. If they don't know if you are male or female, they tend to assume you're a guy and want to meet with you more often than not. Once you get to the interview and they find out you're a girl, well, you've already got your foot in the door.
Same can be said for writing, you know. How often are you likely to pick up a book written by a male versus a female?
It isn't that we're sexist, it's just something that has been ingrained generation after generation.
Even after all the progress we've made as women, it's still a man's world. (Please note sarcasm and don't spam me with hate mail.)
If I were to pick a pen name, I'd probably go male. Hire some cutie to pose for my author pic and laugh all the way to the bank. But, I chose to stick with what I've got. Initials. Then again, I don't have to hide behind a pen name, I don't have the amount of success Rowling has.
So, for whatever reasons she had, give her a break. I've noticed lots of people kinda complaining about all of this. Why? What's the deal? Yes, she's a household name and has had some major success, but come on. She's still a writer! She loves what she's doing enough to go the distance to be loved for what she writes, not how she writes it.
July 19, 2013
Friday Faves & Funnies...
It's Friday! Woohoo! Again, still not working, so every day is Friday to me.
Don't hate.
Let's see, I've been reading some good books and novellas these days. More from my personal TBR than for any reviews. I am having sporadic days of posting because I'm packing and preparing to move.
So, on that note, not a lot of 'Faves' today. Mostly just Funnies. But I know, I know, you're down with that.
So here we go!
Alright! Have a good weekend! What are your plans?
Don't hate.
Let's see, I've been reading some good books and novellas these days. More from my personal TBR than for any reviews. I am having sporadic days of posting because I'm packing and preparing to move.
So, on that note, not a lot of 'Faves' today. Mostly just Funnies. But I know, I know, you're down with that.
So here we go!
Alright! Have a good weekend! What are your plans?
July 18, 2013
Critiquing Critiques...
You know, in anything in life, you run across people who are out to bamboozle you. Doesn't matter if you are experienced in your craft, or just beginning, someone will always try to pull one over on you or extricate your hard earned cash from your grasp.
I helped out my daughter's friend, recently, when she contacted me to have a look at her WIP. She told me she felt something was lacking. I read over it, gave her constructive feedback along the way and found the spot that was bothering her.
Now, when I critique something, it takes me a while to read it because I'm trying to digest it in a professional manner. This isn't something I can just read for enjoyment. I will read a little bit, write down some notes, try to figure out where the story is heading, and make comments along the way. It's a process, right? You all know how to critique.
Well, when I told her my thoughts at the end of it all, she thanked me profusely and mentioned that I had given her much more to work with than the woman she paid to critique it in the first place.
Now, I don't know about you, but I was a bit taken aback at the fact that she got so little info and help from someone she paid. It's hard to find a good, honest, professional more often than not, I suppose.
While this shouldn't have shocked me, it did. I know there are all sorts of people out there who are just in this for the money. Take their advice, or leave it, you paid for it. Tough. It just irritates me. I work hard for my money, and I know my daughter's friend does, too. I guess it sickens me that this is happening more and more, these days.
In my opinion, writers are part of a community that should work together, not compete against one another. There are people out there who read SO MANY BOOKS, we just can't be shoving ours under their noses and forcing them to buy. Truth is, if they don't like your work, there isn't a thing you can do about it. But there is ALWAYS someone out there who will like your work.
When I began Word Weavers with my pal, Jenna, we did the author trading cards. The goal behind that, was for authors to take not only their cards to book signings, but those of other authors as well. That way, if someone comes up to you and says, "You know, your book was okay. I liked it, but it could have been..." you whip out a card from a fellow author in that genre and say, "Sorry you feel that way. Here, go to the link on this card, you might like this book instead."
I know, rose-colored glasses over here. But you get my point. We writers, we can't please everyone, but it's good to be a part of a strong community where you can point readers in the direction of someone they might like. And you can trust that other authors out there are doing the same for you. Why don't we help promote each other more? What's the harm in sending someone to purchase a fellow author's book? Yes, we're losing a sale, a follower, a fan, but we just might gain ten more!
What are your thoughts on this? How do you feel about promoting the work of others? How do you want to see this community of authors working?
I helped out my daughter's friend, recently, when she contacted me to have a look at her WIP. She told me she felt something was lacking. I read over it, gave her constructive feedback along the way and found the spot that was bothering her.
Now, when I critique something, it takes me a while to read it because I'm trying to digest it in a professional manner. This isn't something I can just read for enjoyment. I will read a little bit, write down some notes, try to figure out where the story is heading, and make comments along the way. It's a process, right? You all know how to critique.
Well, when I told her my thoughts at the end of it all, she thanked me profusely and mentioned that I had given her much more to work with than the woman she paid to critique it in the first place.
Now, I don't know about you, but I was a bit taken aback at the fact that she got so little info and help from someone she paid. It's hard to find a good, honest, professional more often than not, I suppose.
While this shouldn't have shocked me, it did. I know there are all sorts of people out there who are just in this for the money. Take their advice, or leave it, you paid for it. Tough. It just irritates me. I work hard for my money, and I know my daughter's friend does, too. I guess it sickens me that this is happening more and more, these days.
In my opinion, writers are part of a community that should work together, not compete against one another. There are people out there who read SO MANY BOOKS, we just can't be shoving ours under their noses and forcing them to buy. Truth is, if they don't like your work, there isn't a thing you can do about it. But there is ALWAYS someone out there who will like your work.
When I began Word Weavers with my pal, Jenna, we did the author trading cards. The goal behind that, was for authors to take not only their cards to book signings, but those of other authors as well. That way, if someone comes up to you and says, "You know, your book was okay. I liked it, but it could have been..." you whip out a card from a fellow author in that genre and say, "Sorry you feel that way. Here, go to the link on this card, you might like this book instead."
I know, rose-colored glasses over here. But you get my point. We writers, we can't please everyone, but it's good to be a part of a strong community where you can point readers in the direction of someone they might like. And you can trust that other authors out there are doing the same for you. Why don't we help promote each other more? What's the harm in sending someone to purchase a fellow author's book? Yes, we're losing a sale, a follower, a fan, but we just might gain ten more!
What are your thoughts on this? How do you feel about promoting the work of others? How do you want to see this community of authors working?
