Monthly Theme: Begin Again

by Stephanie J. Blake

I've got the second book blues.

The middle grade novel (a companion to The Marble Queen) that I've been working on for over two years is now shelved.

I'm really struggling with the motivation. I have been drafting picture books. Seems I get an idea or two each day for a picture book.

I want to write another middle grade novel. Trouble is, I don't have any solid ideas. Well, there is this one thing, but I don't know if I can pull it off.

Here's the beginning.

Jackson Jefferson Davis Quick lounged in his video game chair in front of the only television in the house. He was very comfortable and planned on watching a marathon showing of Mythbusters on the Discovery Channel. He didn’t even hear her at first. Honest! But, when his mother screeched, “Jackson, get out there and start on the garage!” the grip on the remote control tightened ever so slightly.

BORING!

What I really need to do is open a brand-new Word doc. and just start fresh.

I'd rather play Candy Crush. Heck, I'd rather clean the oven--or stick my head in it.

I guess I'm out of practice. It's time to re-read the book The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman. I need a workshop!