Writing About: 4th of July + Question of the Month

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!

The Fourth of July in the United States is a time for us to celebrate our independence as a nation. There are barbecues, outdoor festivals, and firework shows. Music, beer, hot dogs, and sparklers are staples for this holiday. It’s a good deal of fun in real life and can also be in fiction.
1. Fireworks
The Good: Fireworks are magnificent to look at with their vibrant colors and pretty displays. It’s always nice to go to a firework show, and it can be a nice event for a single mom, her kids, and new boyfriend to attend. On the other hand, it could be a fun, passionate evening for a new couple.
The Bad: Fireworks are nightmares for veterans. If you’re writing a book about a veteran who returns home, show the severity of his/her PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) on July 4th. When fireworks go off, have him/her jump, see flashbacks of war, and even hide in a corner or closet. Pets also hate fireworks. My cats do.
Image from Flickr
2. BBQ
A BBQ can be great fun on July 4th. Get your characters together. Give them some watermelon, corn on the cob, hot dogs and hamburgers, beer and coke, and let them chill. This would be a good time to bring a moment of peace to a thriller. Or you can escalate the suspense with a foot chase or murder while fireworks are exploding.
3. Family Reunion
Relatives like to come in and have a big party on this day. This would be a good moment to introduce your MC’s parents, siblings, and other important relatives. Maybe if you’re writing a romance, this 4th of July family reunion could be the time for a new boyfriend/girlfriend to meet the family. And, of course, when family gets together there is usually some drama. This could be in the form of arguments…or murder.

QUESTION: What do you like/dislike about 4th of July?

To join this monthly blog hop visit Michael G D'Agostino's blog


QUESTION: What was the first book (or series) you really fell in love with?
So I cheated with this one because I once blogged about it. Sorry, Michael! Underrated Treasures Blogfest
The Young Wizard series by Diane Duane is like a dark, more urban version of Harry Potter. It’s for young/YA readers, but it’s written in such a way that adults can enjoy it. The science in these books, as well as the magic, is so amazing it blows my mind.
I found the first book in the same manner that Nita found her Wizard’s Manual. I was trailing my hand along a library’s bookshelf when I felt a little zap! I looked and saw So You Want to be A Wizard. From then on, I was a fan. And to this day I'm still a fan. I bought the newest book that came out at the beginning of this year and added it to my collection.

Before that my favorite book was Are You My Mother by P.D. Eastman. I didn't have too many books I enjoyed as a kid because I struggled with reading, but I also loved Dr. Seuss, the Little House books, and Goosebumps. :)


NEW IWSG Day Feature!

Every month we'll announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG Day post. The first IWSG Day question is for July 6th.

JULY 6TH QUESTION: What's the best thing someone has ever said about your writing?

Add this question and your answer to your July 6th IWSG Day post. And please visit other members to read their answers. If you’re not signed up, please join HERE.