The Write Joyce

SCBWI Crystal Kite - Vote Now

2012-03-02T19:56:00.001-05:00

I love them all, so this is going to be a difficult choice!

The first round of voting for the SCBWI Crystal Kite award has been
completed, and we now have 6 finalists for the New England region:

Leslie Bulion for AT THE SEA FLOOR CAFE
Lita Judge for RED SLED
Jo Knowles for PEARL
Beth Krommes for SWIRL BY SWIRL: SPIRALS IN NATURE
J. C. Phillipps for WINK: THE NINJA WHO WANTED TO NAP
Padma Venkatraman for ISLAND'S END

Congratulations to all of you!!

Let's join together to choose the successor for Brian Lies who won last
year's award. Voting will be open from now until March 16th.

To vote, go to www.scbwi.org
1. Select the yellow "MEMBER LOGIN" button at the top of the page and
log in with your email address and password (If the button says "LOG OUT,"
then you're already logged in.)
2. Click on the "MEMBER HOME" button, and then, from your member
homepage, choose "See what's going on in your region!"
3. Click on the "Crystal Kite" tab at the top of your Regional Chapter's
Homepage.
4. Choose the title you wish to vote for, and click on "VOTE FOR THIS
TITLE" to make your selection!

Good luck to all the finalists!

New & Emerging Author Opportunities

2012-02-19T12:37:00.001-05:00

Do you have a young adult historical fiction romance with fantasy elements or other cross genre elements? Pugalicious Press is looking for short stories to include in their first e-book YA anthology, titled Timeless!

If your short story is between 3000 and 7500 words and fits into the genre of YA historical romance they want to read it. They would love if you story included any of the following elements: steampunk, fantasy, magic, or adventure. They ask that you follow the guidelines below:

Submit the whole manuscript to pugaliciouspress (at) gmail (dot) com, as a Word .doc file (no .docx) by March 30, 2012, with the subject heading: submission–YA anthology.
Please include a bio, publishing credits if any, and a synopsis.

Since so many of you were asking, They've posted the minimum offering on the payment and royalties for this anthology: $25.00 at time of publication, plus 10% royalty and they are asking for first e-book and printing rights for two years.

Inside info: They are only going to take seven authors and are splitting the royalty 70% authors (hence 10% per author)/30% publisher (to cover costs). This a great opportunity for new authors to get published.

The Cat In The Hat & Springfield, MA

2012-02-13T10:50:00.000-05:00

When I was nineteen, I lived in La Jolla, California for two years. During that time, I worked as a floral designer. Richard (who liked to be called Dick) owned the florist and he was an interesting guy. He knew many celebrities and often had me “do up” the floral arrangements for the events he hosted or was attending.

One of his closest and dearest friends was, Ted Geisel. I met Ted several times. He had an opinion about everything! Some of which I just can’t divulge. He did think I was talker and called me Voyce instead of Joyce after he got to know me.

I’ve been thinking about him lately because I have been to Springfield several times in the last few months as I help organize this years NESCBWI “Keeping It Real” conference taking place April 20-22.

He used to joke about Springfield and that is all I going to say about what he would say about Springfield.

Just to keep this post interesting, here are the inscriptions in the two books he signed for me.

This a 1957 printing.

My 4 year-old signature

His opinion of my love of his book.

Shortly before I returned to the East Coast he gave me this book.

And a warning!

I often wonder how he was able to sum up my life in these two captions? He was just amazing!

Oh yeah, Springfield is also where my husband and I lived right after we were married. So here’s to you, Dr. Suess & Springfield, MA!

Wanted For Blazing to #1 Bestseller

2012-02-06T13:59:00.000-05:00

WANTED:

A MG historical novel about 12 year-old Robyn who yearns for red-hot crucibles full of molten bronze and the roaring fires of her father's foundry. Robyn’s life changes forever the day she accidentally sets fire to the foundry, burning it to the ground and causes her father to go up in a blaze.

Hapenny Magick by Jennifer Carson

2012-02-06T12:01:00.000-05:00

Hapenny Magick by Jennifer Carson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this story! The illustrations are wonderful.

Maewyn may be the smallest of the small, but she has so much heart and determination on her side. When she learns the terrible secret to her brutally mean guardian, and finds out that she has magick she finds two wizards to teach her how to use it to protect the villagers she loves. Through all of her travails, Maewyn learns about friendship and family and sacrifice.

Beautifully written. If you enjoy fairytales, then you'll enjoy Hapenny Magick!

For more about Jennifer, go to her website.

View all my reviews

What to Say?

2012-01-25T11:40:00.002-05:00

I always feel as though I don't have anything important to say about writing when it comes time to blog. Today I realized that this isn't true. I say so much to so many people, everyday!

I teach!

And everyday I am asking questions, giving suggestions and talking my high school kids through writing. But I never have a moment to stop and digest what I say, I just know that when they listen and actually try some of the things I suggest, they reap the rewards of better writing.

Just what did I say to my student about writing from the place where they are most passionate?

Just now one of my students peeks into my office.

"What are you writing?" she asks.

"Junk!"

"Not you."

"Yes, me! I'm trying to blog about writing but I don't have anything to say"

"You always have something to say."

I smirk, think she's being cheeky.

"No, you really do."

"Like what? What do I tell you?"

She sighs and comes into my office.

You ask me stuff?"

"Like what? I can't remember."

"Like, how does it make me feel? Why is it uncomfortable? Does it make me angry?"

I think about this a moment.

"Thanks!" I smile. Wish she would go so I can get back to writing this blog post. But she stays a moment longer.

"My favorite question you ask me," she says, "is what's the worst thing that can happen?"

I look up from my laptop, she's grinning, we both both laugh.

"You can always revise!"

Revision Checklist

2012-01-21T12:43:00.001-05:00

Revising is often the most dreaded part of the writing process. But having a checklist can help you in the process. Here are 10 things I think about when revising.

1. What is the real story that I am telling?

2. How will my character change?

· Does my character get to where s/he needs to be?

No – How do I make her change?

~ Introduce a crisis situation that makes my character change.

Yes – Do the things that happen along the way help get my character where s/he needs to be?

3. What does it mean to move forward?

· Reveal something about the character.

· Propel the plot.

· Build a relationship that is important later in the book.

4. Summarize the things that don’t move the story forward.

· An example of this is Charlie Brown, Linus, and Lucy speaking, but the adults always sound like, “Blah, blah, blah.”

· One sentence summary of the scene.

5. Is my main plot a character development arc?

· Subplots

~ Do they fit in?

~ When do they resolve?

~ How do they resolve?

6. Characters

· What are my character's quirks and personality traits?

· Do my secondary/minor characters grow with each appearance they make in the book?

7. Dialogue

· Do my characters have unique voices?

· Do they reveal everything about their characters?

An example of this is sub vs grinder (sandwich)

Their socio-economic placement

· Does the dialogue let their relationships evolve?

· How authentic do they sound?

8. Setting and Description

· Picture it then brushstroke the description. Let the reader envision it, unless it must be specific.

· For it to be specific, it must be important later in the book. If not, take it out.

9. Wordsmith

· Search for commonly used, but unnecessary words.

~ Examples are just, so, next, that, but.

10. Show, don’t tell.

YA Anthology Open to Submissions

2012-01-16T16:30:00.001-05:00

Today Pugalicious Press posted on their blog the following, "We are looking for YA short stories to include in our first ebook anthology, titled Timeless!"

If your short story is between 3000 and 7500 words and fits into the genre of YA historical romance we want to read it. The story can include steampunk, fantasy, or adventure, as long as it includes some historical elements then we are interested in reading it. For more information go to http://pugaliciouspress.com

Submit the whole manuscript as a Word .doc file (no .docx) by March 30, 2012, with the subject heading: submission--YA anthology.

Please include a bio, publishing credits if any, and a synopsis.

Good luck! And we look forward to reading your short story!

Hidden Talent NESCBWI

2012-01-04T10:41:00.000-05:00

There is so much hidden talent and so many dedicated people who work behind the scenes to support the NESCBWI Spring Conference every year. The planning for each conference starts long before the preceding conference usually kicks off (2013 is already in process). So over the next several weeks, I want to introduce them to the dedicated volunteers who make the magic happen.

Kathryn Hulick is a workhorse. While I was wrapping presents and drinking eggnog, Kathryn was working on the upcoming NESCBWI 2012 Spring Conference. While I was baking cookies, Kathryn was sending out faculty contracts. While I was decorating the tree, Kathryn was collecting faculty bios. While I was lighting the menorah and eating latkes, Kathryn was answering conference question emails. Kathryn is amazing and I am just having such a wonderful time working with her.

Shirley Pearson is also a amazing. Her dedication as the conference registrar is very behind the scenes. You don't see her until you arrive at the conference and walk up to the registration table, but she spends months working on the Regonline registration process and event website beforehand. So while I was doing all the holiday things, I mention above, Shirley was doing her NESCBWI Conference magic.

I just wanted to take a moment to thank them both for their dedication to NESCBWI. I've learned so much working with you both. Thanks and much gratitude!

Is there some someone that supports the NESCBWI Conference you think should be recognized for their dedication and work? Let me know. I'd like to thank them.

Co-Directing a Conference

2011-12-06T10:18:00.003-05:00

I am so excited to be co-drecting the 2012 NESCBWI "Keeping it Real" Conference. The past eight moths have flown by and now we are truly in the throes (it's like giving birth, Really) of getting it done.

I've traveled to the heart of Springfield, MA, twice, to tour the Sheraton Monarch Hotel and plan out where each workshop, academy, and event will take place. It is an amazing building, with an amazing soaring atrium, plenty of comfortable seating for intimate conversations or robust group gatherings between workshops.

There are some excellent restaurants you can walk to if the weather is nice. Here are a few you can check out now.

Pazzo

1000 West Columbus Avenue

(413) 737-5800 ‎ · pazzohof.com

Category: Italian Restaurant

Theodore's Inc

201 Worthington Street,

(413) 736-6000 ‎ · theobbq.com

Category: Barbecue Restaurant

Nadim's Mediterranean Restaurant & Grill

1390 Main Street

(413) 737-7373 ‎ · nadimsmediterranean.com

Middle Eastern · Lebanese · Eastern cuisine

Sitar Restaurant

1688 Main Street

(413) 732-8011 ‎ · sitarindianrestaurant.net

spices · tandoori · curry

Max's Tavern

1000 West Columbus Avenue

(413) 746-6299 ‎ · maxtavern.com

Student Prince Cafe (my fave)

8 Fort Street

(413) 788-6628 ‎ · studentprince.com

Category: German Restaurant Deli

Montenia's

137 State Street

(413) 301-6286 ‎ · montenia.net

Down Home - sweet potato pie · mac and cheese · soul food · comfort cuisine · the ribs

Dillweedz Cafe

91 State St.

(413) 306-3151 ‎ · dillweedzcafe.com

Cornerstone Cafe

1414 Main Street

(413) 746-1025 ‎ · cornerstonecafe.net

Tower Grill

1500 Main Street, Springfield, MA

Tower Square Parking Garage

(413) 746-9435 ‎

The train and bus stations are approximately 4 blocks from the hotel. So get planning! Want to reserve your room now? Go to NESCBWI 2012 Conference, Springfield, MA.

See you in April!

22 Days Until 50!

2011-12-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

That's right, I turn 50 in 22 days! Kind of shocking when I think about it. So many thoughts are racing around in the old gray matter but I won't go there now.

What I really want for my birthday, is for my friends and and family to pledge $15 and support my kickstarter Book Project, The Casting. Not matter what happens, this book is debuting on April 1, 2012.

Spending $15 gets you a dedicated and signed softcover copy ($25 gets you a hard cover copy), and some other awesome swag! Please make an old lady happy, and pledge $15 today!

Don't make me beg, it might get ugly.

Please!

Now go have a glass of wine and celebrate with me!

Check It Out!

2011-11-25T18:02:00.003-05:00

Get More When You Give

2011-11-09T12:55:00.002-05:00

It is a real pleasure being interviewed by Kristine Carlson Asselin for her blog, Writing. For Real. Actually, she gave me a gift.

I found myself reflecting on the reasons for starting a small press. I realize that for me, much of it has been because books have always been available to me. My parents, although they never gave my sister, brother, or I any homework support, they did give us books. I may not have been the best student, but I could read and read well. My comprehension of any material I read, was reinforced by the follow up conversations I had with my parents about what I was reading.

I taught myself so many things by reading how-to books, and travel guides. If I was interested in something, I'd walk to the library and find a book. I learned about Machiavelli, and Plato, read about the American Revolution, learned how Penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928, and learned the names and legends of the constellations; all from the books I read. I loved getting lost in a new world or imagine I was the main character having a grand adventure. Sometimes I still do!

I love to turn pages and feel the paper between my fingers and miss this tactile element when I read on my Kindle.
You can find the submission guidelines for Pugalicious Press here.

Matched

2011-11-04T08:53:00.001-04:00

When I walked into the house, Crossed by Allie Condie was on the kitchen island waiting for me.

My kids, both book lovers, were calling dibs before I could even rip the plastic wrap from it. Before I could enjoy the cover.

I smoothly and very mom-like, swatted away their grubby, little book-stealing hands, ran from the room and hid it from them until I can start reading.

I plan on reading it this weekend. Maybe, I'll start it tonight and read it straight through the night until finished. It's been a very long time since I've done that.

What are you reading this weekend?

NESCBWI 2012 Conference

2011-11-02T08:44:00.000-04:00

It’s closer than you think….

NESCBWI 2012 Conference Invitation

2011-10-25T22:14:00.000-04:00

You should be checking your mailboxes starting next week.
You've seen the front.

But ... if you turn it over...

You will see what's happening in April 20-22, 2012 at the
Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place, Springfield, MA.

Calling All Illustrators! Ilustrators Day 11/19/2011

2011-10-23T20:50:00.005-04:00

Casey Girard (your new Illustrator Coordinator) and Anna Boll (Northern New England Regional Advisor) are thrilled to announce Illustrator Day!

When: Saturday, November 19, 2011 (I know it?s short notice. Quick, go sign up!)
Time: 1:00-6:00
Where: Emma Blood French Auditorium (The French Building) on the New Hampshire Institute of Art campus in Manchester, NH.

NEW ~ PRIZES! That's right you could with some cool illustrator stuff.
Sketchbooks, drawing supplies, even a copy of Pocketful of Posies - A treasury of Nursery Rhymes By Salley Mavor

Registration: Click Here!

The schedule for Illustrator Day 2011 will be as follows:
1:00-1:30 Registration
1:30 Welcome
1:45-2:45 Keynote: Salley Mavor, Golden Kite Winner 2011
5 min break
2:50-3:50 Carol Goldenberg, Award Winning Book Designer

25 min snack break

4:15-5:00 Repeat of Carlyn Beccia and Jennifer Morris' Digital Painting Duels from NESCBWI Spring 2011 Conference

5 min break

5:00-6:00 continued Digital Painting Duels

You can find a map Here!

To register and for additional information follow this link: http://tinyurl.com/illustratorday-registration

Registration Fees for SCBWI Members and Students: $50 all day Public Registration Fee: $75 all day.

Send your check to Anna Boll at 17 Rich Rd. Brunswick, ME 04011, or you can pay at the door.

More questions? Anna: NorthernNERA@nescbwi.org or Casey: casey.girard@gmail.com

Kickstart a Dream!

2011-10-18T16:21:00.000-04:00

A close friend of mine, you may even know her, is looking for funding on Kickstarter.com to fund a fantastic middle grade book project. Check it out and think about giving!

Jennifer Carson

Jen's first book To Find A Wonder, was published by from LL Dreamspell.

Her second book Hapenny Magick, with help from wonderful supporters, will be published through Pugalicious Press.

Here it is! NESCBWI 2012 "Keeping it Real" Conferenece

2011-10-17T17:23:00.001-04:00

I can only give you a glimpse of things to come but we did change things up.

Registration opens January 23, 2012. Get your manuscripts and agent quick queries ready! Deadlines for submitting for critiques close early for the upcoming conference due to the dates being in April.

Kudos to Jen Carson for all she's done with her work on the newest version of the postcard and in such a teeny-weenie amount of time.

Thursday's Things

2011-09-08T09:04:00.001-04:00

The premise of Thursday's Things is based on Things the Game.

THINGS
(a)game that presents players with provocative topics like "THINGS… people do when no one is looking", "THINGS… you wouldn’t do for a million dollars" or "THINGS… your parents forgot to tell you"… and allows each player to say whatever comes to mind. Pick a topic, get everyone to write a response, read them out loud and then guess who said what. There are no right answers. There are no wrong answers.

Today's Things Game: Things You Love to Write About

I'll start.

Ancient Technology

Sabotage – We All Do It!

2011-08-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

For the last Four weeks I have been trying to complete a final revision on my YA. I'm almost there. But if I finish it, I'll then have to submit. I think the prospect of subbing my manuscript is what is holding me back.

Sabotage. We all do it. But why?

7 Ways to Change from Saboteur to Successful!

Plan your writing time.
Pick a time and stick to it.
Give yourself a goal.
500 words, 3 pages. Whatever you think can get done in the amount of time you actually have to write.
Do not revise while writing.
Just get the words down. You can revise later.
Give yourself a timeline. You can always change this, but it helps to know what your deadlines are, even if no one else knows.
Believe you are a writer.
Own it! This isn't difficult.
Understand that rejection is not about you.
This is the most difficult, but take away the emotion behind rejection and you become strong.
Seek support from your Writer friends.
They understand.

Help me add to my list! What do you do to be successful?

NESCBWI 2012 Conference Reminder

2011-08-19T07:13:00.000-04:00

I'd like to remind everyone that proposals for workshops at the 2012 NESCBWI conference are due September 16th! Use the link on this page to submit one:

http://www.nescbwi.org/2011/07/nescbwi-2012-conference-call-f.php

Also, we're seeking volunteers for the 2012 conference. Please fill out this survey if you are interested in helping out:

http://www.nescbwi.org/2011/08/call-for-conference-volunteers.php

Calling ALL Volunteers for NESCBWI 2012!

2011-08-12T08:17:00.001-04:00

We need you to make 2012 the best conference ever!

Only 251 days until the conference.

Want to volunteer?

Click here to complete the volunteer survey.

The New England SCBWI annual conference is entirely organized and run by volunteers, so help is vitally needed and greatly appreciated. This is one of the largest regional SCBWI conferences, and last year we sold out the conference in two weeks. This year, the theme is "Keeping it Real: Reality and World-building in Fiction, Nonfiction, and Illustration" and the conference will take place April 20-22, 2012 at the Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel, Springfield, MA.

Please complete the conference volunteer survey if you are interested in helping out. Getting more involved in the NE-SCBWI conference is a great way to meet accomplished authors, illustrators, editors, and other publishing professionals.

Volunteers are needed to assist with many different aspects of the conference. Conference weekend volunteers are responsible for tasks during the conference weekend only, and will be trained that weekend. We also need volunteers to help select workshops for the conference. The Workshop Selection Committee will meet on October 2, 2011 in Holden, MA to choose the best workshops out of all the proposals submitted.

We are also seeking volunteers to take on roles with greater time commitment and involvement. If you are interested in any of the following volunteer positions, please email nescbwi12@gmail.com with your full name, contact information, and a brief explanation of why you feel you would be a good fit for the position.

Open Volunteer Positions

Special Interest Group Coordinator

Special Interest Groups are informal discussions meant to promote networking and discussion on topics of mutual interest. For example, past Special Interest Groups have discussed writing fantasy, using Twitter, and digital illustration. The Coordinator will need to solicit topics for the groups, find and recruit volunteers to lead the discussions, create signage for the tables, and make sure that the event runs smoothly.