We hear that Trish has now really settled into her new home, just a bit too far away to allow attendance at the Scribblers. She sends warmest greetings to all the members.
Please send your thoughts out to Chris in Cairns, Queensland, who has just suffered a heart scare on the very week his wife is retiring from work.
Also think of our most senior member Les and his wife Joan who is very ill.
Messages of support would always be welcome. These can be sent to scribblers@btinternet.com for forwarding.
The Scribe
Wednesday, 29 February 2012
CPI Antony Rowe Book Printing Services
I am writing to introduce myself and my company, CPI Antony Rowe.
The CPI Group is the largest printers in Europe, and here at CPI Antony Rowe we specialise in short run printing and working with writers groups and circles such as yours.
We can take your manuscript or files and create a Paperback or Hardback book to your requirements. We have no minimum print run so can just print a single copy for you or several thousand.
As well as book printing we can also do e-book conversion and have contracts in place with the major e retailers so can get your book on their websites and sell for you.
We also have our e commerce site 'CPI Book Delivery'. By using this you can sell your book through our website. We will take the money direct from your customer, print the amount required and send direct to the end user.
If you would like to know more about any of our services, receive an estimate for the printing of your book or would like a tour of our factory please do contact me anytime,
Neil Evans, Sales Manager
CPI UK, Cardiff Road, Reading, Berkshire. RG1 8EX
www.cpibooks.co.uk
The CPI Group is the largest printers in Europe, and here at CPI Antony Rowe we specialise in short run printing and working with writers groups and circles such as yours.
We can take your manuscript or files and create a Paperback or Hardback book to your requirements. We have no minimum print run so can just print a single copy for you or several thousand.
As well as book printing we can also do e-book conversion and have contracts in place with the major e retailers so can get your book on their websites and sell for you.
We also have our e commerce site 'CPI Book Delivery'. By using this you can sell your book through our website. We will take the money direct from your customer, print the amount required and send direct to the end user.
If you would like to know more about any of our services, receive an estimate for the printing of your book or would like a tour of our factory please do contact me anytime,
Neil Evans, Sales Manager
CPI UK, Cardiff Road, Reading, Berkshire. RG1 8EX
www.cpibooks.co.uk
IP-ART FESTIVAL 2012 SHORT STORY PRIZE IS LAUNCHED
The Festival, in partnership with University Campus Suffolk are pleased to announce the 2012 Short Story Prize.
Writers are invited to enter a 500 word story on the theme of ‘Recover’. The deadline for entries is 30 April 2012.
http://www.ip-art.com/
firstwriter.com newsletter
How I got my book published
An interview with author, James J. Garber
James recently acquired a publisher using firstwriter.com's database of publishers. We asked him about his writing, and how he found success.
fw: Thank you for taking the time to talk to us, James. Could you tell us a little about the book you recently placed with a publisher?
JJG: The book is called Problem Gods: In Search of a Meaningful Deity. It is about the concept of God, past and present, that offers a new definition or view of God based on modern science including astronomy, relativity and quantum theory. It analyses why our view of God is outdated and needs updating. Our current level of understanding of the Universe, including us humans, demands that we revise our divine vision.
fw: What made you feel like this was a book that you needed to write?
JJG: Being raised in a Catholic home with a Jewish father, with sixteen years of religious schooling plus a masters in theology and astronomy has led to this expanded vision of God – a God that is more rational and logical yet more mysterious and awe inspiring. Most of my material came out of my astronomy and theology studies plus a lot of reading. Writing nonfiction one needs to know the current literature. It’s okay to have one's views (biases) on a topic but you need to present the other views out there in a fair manner as well.
fw: Have you published anything else previously?
JJG: I have another published nonfiction book (2008).
fw: Do you think that previous track record helped you place this book? Was it with the same publisher?
JJG: I don’t think it made a great difference. I’m an independent scholar without standing in the theological community and the book had to sell on its own merits. My prior publisher didn’t accept this current book because it’s not on their "list". This is the word they use when rejecting a book.
fw: When your first publisher passed on the book, did you think about trying to get an agent to represent it for you?
JJG: I never sought an agent. Both books were strictly through firstwriter.com. It’s a numbers game. I went through all nonfiction, religious, "liberal" religious publishers. I sent submissions to about 80+ publishers. This included a cover letter, my curriculum vitae and three chapters. Four publishers asked to read the full MS. One accepted it for publication. Last time two accepted the book (it was on ancient and medieval medicine).
fw: Did you try any other methods for placing your book, besides firstwriter.com?
JJG: I only looked at firstwriter.com, though I did consider self-publication as a backup.
fw: And what do you think made firstwriter.com effective for you?
JJG: firstwriter.com provides a lot of publishers to consider and I could tell whether they might look at a liberal theological topic.
fw: And once you'd found suitable publishers to approach, did you send out lots of copies of your manuscript or take another approach?
JJG: No, I didn’t send out any MS unless they requested one. Lots of letters with CV, three chapters either by mail or email, depending on what they wanted. Lots of rejections from the best publishers in the United States!
fw: How long did you spend sending out queries?
JJG: It took about three months.
fw: And how did you deal with the rejections?
JJG: I smiled a lot and filed all the Harvard’s, Princeton’s and MIT’s. After all, how many people have Harvard letterheads in their files? Most sent pleasant responses. Two sent some very encouraging letters.
fw: Which publisher accepted your book in the end?
JJG: My first was Transaction Publishing and currently it is Bauu Institute and Press.
fw: What do you think was the key to securing that deal?
JJG: The approach to the topic I used in both books was unique. I was very careful about grammar and writing style and my wife and I edited the MS ad nauseum.
fw: How are you finding things now the book has been sold?
JJG: It’s fun. I like marketing, book signings etc. They tamper very little and what they’ve done has been good.
fw: What advice would you give to writers still searching for a publisher?
JJG: Work hard at the book, do a good job on it. Get advice from friends and don’t get discouraged. And if you don’t find a publisher consider self-publishing. I have a friend who self- published initially and now has four additional books in print by bone fide publishers.
fw: So what are your plans for the future?
JJG: The book is out as of February 1st. I’m marketing as best I can and have two more books in the works. I don’t publish in order to make money. I do it because it’s gratifying!
fw: Thank you for your time, James, and best of luck with all your books!
How I got my book publishedAn interview with author, James J. Garber
James J. Garber recently acquired a publisher using firstwriter.com's database of publishers. We asked him about his writing, and how he found success.
fw: Thank you for taking the time to talk to us, James. Could you tell us a little about the book you recently placed with a publisher?
JJG: The book is called Problem Gods: In Search of a Meaningful Deity. It is about the concept of God, past and present, that offers a new definition or view of God based on modern science including astronomy, relativity and quantum theory. It analyses why our view of God is outdated and needs updating. Our current level of understanding of the Universe, including us humans, demands that we revise our divine vision.
International Copyright Registration Register your copyright online for instant copyright protection in more than 160 different countries worldwide. Click here for more information.
fw: What made you feel like this was a book that you needed to write?
JJG: Being raised in a Catholic home with a Jewish father, with sixteen years of religious schooling plus a masters in theology and astronomy has led to this expanded vision of God – a God that is more rational and logical yet more mysterious and awe inspiring. Most of my material came out of my astronomy and theology studies plus a lot of reading. Writing nonfiction one needs to know the current literature. It’s okay to have one's views (biases) on a topic but you need to present the other views out there in a fair manner as well.
fw: Have you published anything else previously?
JJG: I have another published nonfiction book (2008).
fw: Do you think that previous track record helped you place this book? Was it with the same publisher?
JJG: I don’t think it made a great difference. I’m an independent scholar without standing in the theological community and the book had to sell on its own merits. My prior publisher didn’t accept this current book because it’s not on their "list". This is the word they use when rejecting a book.
fw: When your first publisher passed on the book, did you think about trying to get an agent to represent it for you?
JJG: I never sought an agent. Both books were strictly through firstwriter.com. It’s a numbers game. I went through all nonfiction, religious, "liberal" religious publishers. I sent submissions to about 80+ publishers. This included a cover letter, my curriculum vitae and three chapters. Four publishers asked to read the full MS. One accepted it for publication. Last time two accepted the book (it was on ancient and medieval medicine).
fw: Did you try any other methods for placing your book, besides firstwriter.com?
JJG: I only looked at firstwriter.com, though I did consider self-publication as a backup.
fw: And what do you think made firstwriter.com effective for you?
JJG: firstwriter.com provides a lot of publishers to consider and I could tell whether they might look at a liberal theological topic.
fw: And once you'd found suitable publishers to approach, did you send out lots of copies of your manuscript or take another approach?
JJG: No, I didn’t send out any MS unless they requested one. Lots of letters with CV, three chapters either by mail or email, depending on what they wanted. Lots of rejections from the best publishers in the United States!
fw: How long did you spend sending out queries?
JJG: It took about three months.
fw: And how did you deal with the rejections?
JJG: I smiled a lot and filed all the Harvard’s, Princeton’s and MIT’s. After all, how many people have Harvard letterheads in their files? Most sent pleasant responses. Two sent some very encouraging letters.
fw: Which publisher accepted your book in the end?
JJG: My first was Transaction Publishing and currently it is Bauu Institute and Press.
fw: What do you think was the key to securing that deal?
JJG: The approach to the topic I used in both books was unique. I was very careful about grammar and writing style and my wife and I edited the MS ad nauseum.
fw: How are you finding things now the book has been sold?
JJG: It’s fun. I like marketing, book signings etc. They tamper very little and what they’ve done has been good.
fw: What advice would you give to writers still searching for a publisher?
JJG: Work hard at the book, do a good job on it. Get advice from friends and don’t get discouraged. And if you don’t find a publisher consider self-publishing. I have a friend who self- published initially and now has four additional books in print by bone fide publishers.
fw: So what are your plans for the future?
JJG: The book is out as of February 1st. I’m marketing as best I can and have two more books in the works. I don’t publish in order to make money. I do it because it’s gratifying!
fw: Thank you for your time, James, and best of luck with all your books!
New social network for poetry
OpenMicVoices.com is a new social network for poets and people who enjoy poetry. OpenMicVoices.com welcomes all levels of poets to join. Users can create profiles that showcase their talent and produce an online presence for their works. Add photos, audio, and video, as well as, utilise a free, instant, live video chatroom, where you can socialise with your favourite members.
The site intends to spotlight poets worldwide, providing them with a more meaningful and profound experience, not found in online poetry groups or forums. Joining OpenMicVoices.com is quick and easy, with the ability to sign in using your username and password from any of the following sites:
Facebook ; Twitter ; Google ; Yahoo ; MySpace ; Linked iN ; Windows Live ID ; Open ID ; FLiCKR ; Blogger ; WordPress ; AOL.
OpenMicVoices.com is absolutely free for you to enjoy. Users are given a free blog, and assistance with monetising your work with advertising from such services as Google Adsense. You also get a free store, with free ads! Buy, sell, trade or donate, in your store.
To visit the website, click here
New website for urban fantasy fiction
A new webzine for fans of the urban fantasy genre, called Urban Fantasist, has just been launched by sf&f author Charles Christian and carries news, interviews, book reviews and blog postings about urban fantasy writing, art and photography.
One of the regular features will be a new flash fiction story published every Friday fortnight selected from submissions to the zine. Called TFi Flash Fortnightly, pieces must be no more than 1,000 words on an urban fantasy, genre-type theme (see http://www.urbanfantasist.com/ for more details).
Another regular column is Eleven Questions, an offbeat interview with an urban fantasy or sci fi personality answering questions such as their preferred time travel destinations and the mechanics of their craft. Jonathan Pinnock is the first "victim" revealing all.
Charles Christian, founder of the zine, also founded the successful Ink Sweat & Tears poetry webzine, and his first collection of dystopian science fiction and urban fantasy short stories This is the Quickest Way Down was published by Salt/Proxima Books at the end of 2011. He is a barrister and Reuters correspondent turned legal journalist, newsletter editor, keynote speaker, blogger, legal IT branding and marketingconsultant, sometime poet, photographer and urban fantasy/science fiction writer.
For more information contact charles@charles-christian.com or visit http://www.urbanfantasist.com/
Travel writing: take that extra step and go beyond simply documenting your many adventures
By Marcella Simmons
In this new age of laptops, digital cameras and other gizmos, the tools of travel writing have changed markedly – but the challenge remains the same: to present a real to life and vivid documentary of the things you saw, heard and did while on vacation or while just travelling through some town or spot in the woods. It is your view or your reaction to the surroundings around you. When putting it all together for a travel article, it's up to you to bring your readers into the picture and let them feel your reaction as if they were right there beside you. That's why it is so important to go beyond simply documenting your travels. Live them, feel them, and let your readers feel your reaction through your words.
The next time you are going out on an assignment or just going for a weekend getaway, don't forget the digital camera, an ample supply of rechargeable batteries, extra memory cards for picture taking and a purse full of ink pens and purse-size spiral notebooks for note-taking.
When you're actually where you want to be, and start taking photos, write down everything – write down your reaction to the old lady in the window who looked like a witch and kept staring at you as you walked toward the restaurant. Who was she? Why did she look at you as if she had seen a ghost? Why did she look startled when your eyes met hers?
Be observant of your surroundings – and the people you encounter. Write down anything that might be of importance to your upcoming story – don't trust anything to memory. Too much information is way better than not having enough.
Visit local tourist centres and request brochures and travel guides. Take notes in the margins of these brochures when someone emphasises "word-of-mouth" information that's not included in the brochure. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the locals. Find out if there is any history in the area that is noteworthy for a destination travel article. Suppose Jesse James stayed at the historic hotel across the street and they had a room full of memorabilia – his boots, gun and gun belt – other things he may have left behind. There's one angle for your travel story – but dig deeper – what if that hotel is said to be haunted by someone other than Jesse James? Jesse James isn't really enough to get people to travel this far in nowhere country to a small run down hotel simply to see a small room half full of Jesse James memorabilia. You have to dig deeper and find something your readers can get excited about.
Request a room – stay there – hear the creaks and things that go bump in the night – listen for the ghost that haunts the hallway late into the night – did you see anything? Did the hair stand up on your neck when the cold draft of wind from nowhere hurled by you as you were standing in the hall?
Write down the things you saw and heard. How did you feel? Let your readers feel the fear you felt as you were alone on the upper floor of that haunted hotel. Where was everyone else? Why were you all alone? Was it really haunted? Or was it just your imagination from the stories you had heard? Write it and let your readers help you decide whether the haunting was real or not. Did anyone else hear the noises you heard? Who's shadow was it that crept by your doorway just before you shut the door? Who was crying in the hallway after you went in and locked the door? When you opened the door the sound stopped – there was no-one there.
What about that blurred image that kept showing up in some of the photos you took? What was it? Who was it? You didn't see anyone when you were shooting. Creepy, huh?
Write them an article that will entice them to come to that particular place – an old run down hotel with a creepy past ninety miles from nowhere – let them feel your excitement and fear as you crawled back into bed – don't only tell them about the noises you heard coming from the hall late in the night – let them hear the fear as you write especially when you heard the woman scream out in the room next door and you were too afraid to climb out of bed to go see.
It may scare the heck out of some people and they may never want to visit the haunted hotel, but chances are that your story will draw quite a lot of people to that little hotel located in nowhere country just to see for themselves if it were haunted or not. That's what your travel article must do – go beyond documenting the things you learned, the things you saw or heard – your readers must feel the same excitement you do about a place or all the documenting in the world will never lure them to this place – especially if it's ninety miles from nowhere!
In essence, you must present a travel story that goes beyond documentation – it must have real feelings that awe the reader and make them want to visit the place of interest. Leave the dull documentation to the travel brochures and the like. Bring out the realness and the life of a place and people will be drawn to visit time and time again.
About the authorMarcella Simmons has more than 650 published credits in hundreds of publications including several local newspapers and she is currently working on three romance/suspense novels and a reference guide for writers, while maintaining several travel websites.
See World of Travel Writers. Writers are encouraged to submit travel articles on the subject of travel writing to Ms Simmons at marcies04@bellsouth.net.
Resources for writers at firstwriter.com
Visit firstwriter.com for the following invaluable resources for writers:
over 850 literary agencies
over 1,300 book publishers
over 150 writing contests
over 1,500 magazine publishers
and more...
An interview with author, James J. Garber
James recently acquired a publisher using firstwriter.com's database of publishers. We asked him about his writing, and how he found success.
fw: Thank you for taking the time to talk to us, James. Could you tell us a little about the book you recently placed with a publisher?
JJG: The book is called Problem Gods: In Search of a Meaningful Deity. It is about the concept of God, past and present, that offers a new definition or view of God based on modern science including astronomy, relativity and quantum theory. It analyses why our view of God is outdated and needs updating. Our current level of understanding of the Universe, including us humans, demands that we revise our divine vision.
fw: What made you feel like this was a book that you needed to write?
JJG: Being raised in a Catholic home with a Jewish father, with sixteen years of religious schooling plus a masters in theology and astronomy has led to this expanded vision of God – a God that is more rational and logical yet more mysterious and awe inspiring. Most of my material came out of my astronomy and theology studies plus a lot of reading. Writing nonfiction one needs to know the current literature. It’s okay to have one's views (biases) on a topic but you need to present the other views out there in a fair manner as well.
fw: Have you published anything else previously?
JJG: I have another published nonfiction book (2008).
fw: Do you think that previous track record helped you place this book? Was it with the same publisher?
JJG: I don’t think it made a great difference. I’m an independent scholar without standing in the theological community and the book had to sell on its own merits. My prior publisher didn’t accept this current book because it’s not on their "list". This is the word they use when rejecting a book.
fw: When your first publisher passed on the book, did you think about trying to get an agent to represent it for you?
JJG: I never sought an agent. Both books were strictly through firstwriter.com. It’s a numbers game. I went through all nonfiction, religious, "liberal" religious publishers. I sent submissions to about 80+ publishers. This included a cover letter, my curriculum vitae and three chapters. Four publishers asked to read the full MS. One accepted it for publication. Last time two accepted the book (it was on ancient and medieval medicine).
fw: Did you try any other methods for placing your book, besides firstwriter.com?
JJG: I only looked at firstwriter.com, though I did consider self-publication as a backup.
fw: And what do you think made firstwriter.com effective for you?
JJG: firstwriter.com provides a lot of publishers to consider and I could tell whether they might look at a liberal theological topic.
fw: And once you'd found suitable publishers to approach, did you send out lots of copies of your manuscript or take another approach?
JJG: No, I didn’t send out any MS unless they requested one. Lots of letters with CV, three chapters either by mail or email, depending on what they wanted. Lots of rejections from the best publishers in the United States!
fw: How long did you spend sending out queries?
JJG: It took about three months.
fw: And how did you deal with the rejections?
JJG: I smiled a lot and filed all the Harvard’s, Princeton’s and MIT’s. After all, how many people have Harvard letterheads in their files? Most sent pleasant responses. Two sent some very encouraging letters.
fw: Which publisher accepted your book in the end?
JJG: My first was Transaction Publishing and currently it is Bauu Institute and Press.
fw: What do you think was the key to securing that deal?
JJG: The approach to the topic I used in both books was unique. I was very careful about grammar and writing style and my wife and I edited the MS ad nauseum.
fw: How are you finding things now the book has been sold?
JJG: It’s fun. I like marketing, book signings etc. They tamper very little and what they’ve done has been good.
fw: What advice would you give to writers still searching for a publisher?
JJG: Work hard at the book, do a good job on it. Get advice from friends and don’t get discouraged. And if you don’t find a publisher consider self-publishing. I have a friend who self- published initially and now has four additional books in print by bone fide publishers.
fw: So what are your plans for the future?
JJG: The book is out as of February 1st. I’m marketing as best I can and have two more books in the works. I don’t publish in order to make money. I do it because it’s gratifying!
fw: Thank you for your time, James, and best of luck with all your books!
How I got my book publishedAn interview with author, James J. Garber
James J. Garber recently acquired a publisher using firstwriter.com's database of publishers. We asked him about his writing, and how he found success.
fw: Thank you for taking the time to talk to us, James. Could you tell us a little about the book you recently placed with a publisher?
JJG: The book is called Problem Gods: In Search of a Meaningful Deity. It is about the concept of God, past and present, that offers a new definition or view of God based on modern science including astronomy, relativity and quantum theory. It analyses why our view of God is outdated and needs updating. Our current level of understanding of the Universe, including us humans, demands that we revise our divine vision.
International Copyright Registration Register your copyright online for instant copyright protection in more than 160 different countries worldwide. Click here for more information.
fw: What made you feel like this was a book that you needed to write?
JJG: Being raised in a Catholic home with a Jewish father, with sixteen years of religious schooling plus a masters in theology and astronomy has led to this expanded vision of God – a God that is more rational and logical yet more mysterious and awe inspiring. Most of my material came out of my astronomy and theology studies plus a lot of reading. Writing nonfiction one needs to know the current literature. It’s okay to have one's views (biases) on a topic but you need to present the other views out there in a fair manner as well.
fw: Have you published anything else previously?
JJG: I have another published nonfiction book (2008).
fw: Do you think that previous track record helped you place this book? Was it with the same publisher?
JJG: I don’t think it made a great difference. I’m an independent scholar without standing in the theological community and the book had to sell on its own merits. My prior publisher didn’t accept this current book because it’s not on their "list". This is the word they use when rejecting a book.
fw: When your first publisher passed on the book, did you think about trying to get an agent to represent it for you?
JJG: I never sought an agent. Both books were strictly through firstwriter.com. It’s a numbers game. I went through all nonfiction, religious, "liberal" religious publishers. I sent submissions to about 80+ publishers. This included a cover letter, my curriculum vitae and three chapters. Four publishers asked to read the full MS. One accepted it for publication. Last time two accepted the book (it was on ancient and medieval medicine).
fw: Did you try any other methods for placing your book, besides firstwriter.com?
JJG: I only looked at firstwriter.com, though I did consider self-publication as a backup.
fw: And what do you think made firstwriter.com effective for you?
JJG: firstwriter.com provides a lot of publishers to consider and I could tell whether they might look at a liberal theological topic.
fw: And once you'd found suitable publishers to approach, did you send out lots of copies of your manuscript or take another approach?
JJG: No, I didn’t send out any MS unless they requested one. Lots of letters with CV, three chapters either by mail or email, depending on what they wanted. Lots of rejections from the best publishers in the United States!
fw: How long did you spend sending out queries?
JJG: It took about three months.
fw: And how did you deal with the rejections?
JJG: I smiled a lot and filed all the Harvard’s, Princeton’s and MIT’s. After all, how many people have Harvard letterheads in their files? Most sent pleasant responses. Two sent some very encouraging letters.
fw: Which publisher accepted your book in the end?
JJG: My first was Transaction Publishing and currently it is Bauu Institute and Press.
fw: What do you think was the key to securing that deal?
JJG: The approach to the topic I used in both books was unique. I was very careful about grammar and writing style and my wife and I edited the MS ad nauseum.
fw: How are you finding things now the book has been sold?
JJG: It’s fun. I like marketing, book signings etc. They tamper very little and what they’ve done has been good.
fw: What advice would you give to writers still searching for a publisher?
JJG: Work hard at the book, do a good job on it. Get advice from friends and don’t get discouraged. And if you don’t find a publisher consider self-publishing. I have a friend who self- published initially and now has four additional books in print by bone fide publishers.
fw: So what are your plans for the future?
JJG: The book is out as of February 1st. I’m marketing as best I can and have two more books in the works. I don’t publish in order to make money. I do it because it’s gratifying!
fw: Thank you for your time, James, and best of luck with all your books!
New social network for poetry
OpenMicVoices.com is a new social network for poets and people who enjoy poetry. OpenMicVoices.com welcomes all levels of poets to join. Users can create profiles that showcase their talent and produce an online presence for their works. Add photos, audio, and video, as well as, utilise a free, instant, live video chatroom, where you can socialise with your favourite members.
The site intends to spotlight poets worldwide, providing them with a more meaningful and profound experience, not found in online poetry groups or forums. Joining OpenMicVoices.com is quick and easy, with the ability to sign in using your username and password from any of the following sites:
Facebook ; Twitter ; Google ; Yahoo ; MySpace ; Linked iN ; Windows Live ID ; Open ID ; FLiCKR ; Blogger ; WordPress ; AOL.
OpenMicVoices.com is absolutely free for you to enjoy. Users are given a free blog, and assistance with monetising your work with advertising from such services as Google Adsense. You also get a free store, with free ads! Buy, sell, trade or donate, in your store.
To visit the website, click here
New website for urban fantasy fiction
A new webzine for fans of the urban fantasy genre, called Urban Fantasist, has just been launched by sf&f author Charles Christian and carries news, interviews, book reviews and blog postings about urban fantasy writing, art and photography.
One of the regular features will be a new flash fiction story published every Friday fortnight selected from submissions to the zine. Called TFi Flash Fortnightly, pieces must be no more than 1,000 words on an urban fantasy, genre-type theme (see http://www.urbanfantasist.com/ for more details).
Another regular column is Eleven Questions, an offbeat interview with an urban fantasy or sci fi personality answering questions such as their preferred time travel destinations and the mechanics of their craft. Jonathan Pinnock is the first "victim" revealing all.
Charles Christian, founder of the zine, also founded the successful Ink Sweat & Tears poetry webzine, and his first collection of dystopian science fiction and urban fantasy short stories This is the Quickest Way Down was published by Salt/Proxima Books at the end of 2011. He is a barrister and Reuters correspondent turned legal journalist, newsletter editor, keynote speaker, blogger, legal IT branding and marketingconsultant, sometime poet, photographer and urban fantasy/science fiction writer.
For more information contact charles@charles-christian.com or visit http://www.urbanfantasist.com/
Travel writing: take that extra step and go beyond simply documenting your many adventures
By Marcella Simmons
In this new age of laptops, digital cameras and other gizmos, the tools of travel writing have changed markedly – but the challenge remains the same: to present a real to life and vivid documentary of the things you saw, heard and did while on vacation or while just travelling through some town or spot in the woods. It is your view or your reaction to the surroundings around you. When putting it all together for a travel article, it's up to you to bring your readers into the picture and let them feel your reaction as if they were right there beside you. That's why it is so important to go beyond simply documenting your travels. Live them, feel them, and let your readers feel your reaction through your words.
The next time you are going out on an assignment or just going for a weekend getaway, don't forget the digital camera, an ample supply of rechargeable batteries, extra memory cards for picture taking and a purse full of ink pens and purse-size spiral notebooks for note-taking.
When you're actually where you want to be, and start taking photos, write down everything – write down your reaction to the old lady in the window who looked like a witch and kept staring at you as you walked toward the restaurant. Who was she? Why did she look at you as if she had seen a ghost? Why did she look startled when your eyes met hers?
Be observant of your surroundings – and the people you encounter. Write down anything that might be of importance to your upcoming story – don't trust anything to memory. Too much information is way better than not having enough.
Visit local tourist centres and request brochures and travel guides. Take notes in the margins of these brochures when someone emphasises "word-of-mouth" information that's not included in the brochure. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the locals. Find out if there is any history in the area that is noteworthy for a destination travel article. Suppose Jesse James stayed at the historic hotel across the street and they had a room full of memorabilia – his boots, gun and gun belt – other things he may have left behind. There's one angle for your travel story – but dig deeper – what if that hotel is said to be haunted by someone other than Jesse James? Jesse James isn't really enough to get people to travel this far in nowhere country to a small run down hotel simply to see a small room half full of Jesse James memorabilia. You have to dig deeper and find something your readers can get excited about.
Request a room – stay there – hear the creaks and things that go bump in the night – listen for the ghost that haunts the hallway late into the night – did you see anything? Did the hair stand up on your neck when the cold draft of wind from nowhere hurled by you as you were standing in the hall?
Write down the things you saw and heard. How did you feel? Let your readers feel the fear you felt as you were alone on the upper floor of that haunted hotel. Where was everyone else? Why were you all alone? Was it really haunted? Or was it just your imagination from the stories you had heard? Write it and let your readers help you decide whether the haunting was real or not. Did anyone else hear the noises you heard? Who's shadow was it that crept by your doorway just before you shut the door? Who was crying in the hallway after you went in and locked the door? When you opened the door the sound stopped – there was no-one there.
What about that blurred image that kept showing up in some of the photos you took? What was it? Who was it? You didn't see anyone when you were shooting. Creepy, huh?
Write them an article that will entice them to come to that particular place – an old run down hotel with a creepy past ninety miles from nowhere – let them feel your excitement and fear as you crawled back into bed – don't only tell them about the noises you heard coming from the hall late in the night – let them hear the fear as you write especially when you heard the woman scream out in the room next door and you were too afraid to climb out of bed to go see.
It may scare the heck out of some people and they may never want to visit the haunted hotel, but chances are that your story will draw quite a lot of people to that little hotel located in nowhere country just to see for themselves if it were haunted or not. That's what your travel article must do – go beyond documenting the things you learned, the things you saw or heard – your readers must feel the same excitement you do about a place or all the documenting in the world will never lure them to this place – especially if it's ninety miles from nowhere!
In essence, you must present a travel story that goes beyond documentation – it must have real feelings that awe the reader and make them want to visit the place of interest. Leave the dull documentation to the travel brochures and the like. Bring out the realness and the life of a place and people will be drawn to visit time and time again.
About the authorMarcella Simmons has more than 650 published credits in hundreds of publications including several local newspapers and she is currently working on three romance/suspense novels and a reference guide for writers, while maintaining several travel websites.
See World of Travel Writers. Writers are encouraged to submit travel articles on the subject of travel writing to Ms Simmons at marcies04@bellsouth.net.
Resources for writers at firstwriter.com
Visit firstwriter.com for the following invaluable resources for writers:
over 850 literary agencies
over 1,300 book publishers
over 150 writing contests
over 1,500 magazine publishers
and more...
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
She’s The One writing competition
The Competition
Run in support of International Women's Day on March 8th, She's The One is a competition that celebrates the achievements of women throughout history by inviting writers across the UK to share their thoughts and stories.
Run in support of International Women's Day on March 8th, She's The One is a competition that celebrates the achievements of women throughout history by inviting writers across the UK to share their thoughts and stories.
Whether it's Florence Nightingale or Mrs Smith from down the road, an international icon or an everyday heroine, one woman or all women, we want to hear about the women who inspire you and how they have changed your world.
Send us an original piece of prose or poetry writing of up to 350 words in the style of your choice; the winning entries will be published in an anthology to be released in September 2012.
Full details and rules of entry may be found on the website http://communicatoremail.com/In/19180616/0/tS26EUnVKhaAjynOVkUBuApOTUu9R80r/ Email us at shestheone@myworldpublishing.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @MyWorldBooks
Details
Closing Date: 30th June 2012
Details
Closing Date: 30th June 2012
Submissions should be sent to:
She's The One Competition
My World Publishing
Rainton Bridge Business Park
Chase House
Mandarin Road
Houghton-le-Spring
Tyne and Wear
DH4 5RA
Monday, 27 February 2012
Looking for submissions...
We have had an e mail recently from a writers group based in Wales.
They also run an e magazine and it sounds like they are looking for contributors. If you wish to look at their web site then the links are:
http://www.clebran.org/
http://clebran.org/snippets/publications.html and submissions can be made to snippets@clebran.org.
As the editor said 'I look forward to being swamped by your members contributions.'
Barry
They also run an e magazine and it sounds like they are looking for contributors. If you wish to look at their web site then the links are:
http://www.clebran.org/
http://clebran.org/snippets/publications.html and submissions can be made to snippets@clebran.org.
As the editor said 'I look forward to being swamped by your members contributions.'
Barry
Friday, 24 February 2012
LAST SIX DAYS FOR SUBMISSIONS
February 2012 Competition ends on the 29th February 2012 23:59 BST
UNPUBLISHED FICTION AUTHORS PRINT READY COMPETITION
This competition starts February 2012.The closing date for this competition is the 29th February 2012 23:59 BST.
FEBRUARY 2012 - HISTORICAL and MYTHOLOGICAL
This is a genuine, no fee competition that stretches over 12 months. Each month a different genre; each month a winner. Winners are offered acontract, paid royalties, and receive full promotion and marketing strategies.
This is not a competition with prizes.
There is no entry fee.
Only Print Ready novels of genuine merit will be chosen.
Your book could be a winner.
Full details of rules, genres and how to submit,on our website, http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions.phpEntry form here: http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions/competition-entry.php
UNPUBLISHED FICTION AUTHORS PRINT READY COMPETITION
This competition starts February 2012.The closing date for this competition is the 29th February 2012 23:59 BST.
FEBRUARY 2012 - HISTORICAL and MYTHOLOGICAL
This is a genuine, no fee competition that stretches over 12 months. Each month a different genre; each month a winner. Winners are offered acontract, paid royalties, and receive full promotion and marketing strategies.
This is not a competition with prizes.
There is no entry fee.
Only Print Ready novels of genuine merit will be chosen.
Your book could be a winner.
Full details of rules, genres and how to submit,on our website, http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions.phpEntry form here: http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions/competition-entry.php
Thursday, 23 February 2012
Rubery Book Award
The Tipping Point:
An anthology of short stories
Our first anthology The Tipping Point edited by Paul McDonald has been released! It contains the winning and shortlisted stories from our 2011 short story competition. Buy from amazon or order from most good bookshops. We also have a small supply but we will only be able to ship to the United Kingdom. Buy from us >>
ISBN: 9780955425240
Blurb:
A collection of short stories that won and were shortlisted for the Rubery Book Award 2011. Every relationship and every story has a tipping point: a moment of clarity; a realisation that actions lead to consequences; a decision that can affect the rest of a person's life. Each of these ten beautifully written stories reveals a new perspective on those tipping points. They are subtle and thoughtful, shining light into dark corners, presenting to the reader a rich slice of contemporary life.
There's something here to satisfy every taste. Truth can be found in the desert; in the face of rising flood water; within the darkness of encroaching Alzheimer's; in the changing circumstances that come with age; in friendship across generations; double cross; murder; corruption on the border of Nigeria; lost opportunities; domestic abuse. Read them. Let them illuminate the dilemmas that lie at the heart of our existence and the tipping point that lies in wait for us all.
Book Award
Book award closing date
31st March 2012
Don't forget the closing date for book entries is the 31st March 2012. Entries must not be postmarked any later than this.
We have a prestigious panel of judges and great prizes!
1st £800
(approx 1252 US$, 963€)
and the guarantee that a top London literary agent will read your book.
2nd £150
(approx 240 US$, 180€)
3rd £75
(approx 117$, 86€)
Entry forms can be found online. Any genre is welcome.
Good luck!
read more
»
Wednesday, 22 February 2012
Meeting report for 21st February
If you didn't attend you missed a great meeting. Details are as follows.
Apologies came from Les, who is at present having to look out for Joan who has not been well. Carolyn who is off travelling again, Our treasurer Beryl who has unfortunately sprained her wrist and lastly Caz.
Members present were; Dave, Dick, Ally, Liliane, Sally, Cathy, Sandy, Martin, Ally, Tony and yours truly.We welcomed Lyndsay into the fold, hoping she will be a regular visitor and contributor.
We had just two readings for the evening as it was one of our critique meetings.
Dave was first to read from his novel provisionally entitled Shadow of the Trees. We listened to two chapters, the first being 'Confrontation' which came as mid way through the novel so the characters were fully formed. The novel is woven round the events following a nasty motor accident involving Pauline, one of the main characters, who was in collision with a nefarious character called Noye in his sports car. The accident was entirely his fault and he was convicted and sentenced to a spell in Hollesley Bay Prison from where he escaped.
Another character is Billy, a policeman who gets emotionally entangled with the victim, Pauline and causes a rift between himself and his wife, Judy. The chapter tells of his ferocious argument with Judy as she confronts him about his attachment to Pauline.
The second chapter was 'On the Run' and describes how Noye escapes from the prison and has reached his parents house to gather some clothing and food. He is confronted by his father who tells him what he thinks of his activities. The argument is heard by Noyes mother who enters the kitchen and begins to berate her son. This drives him crazy and he picks up a kitchen knife and stabs his mother, then in a fury stabs his father who is about to attack him.
These were powerful chapters and the meeting offered what Dave considered to be plenty of helpful feedback.
The second reader was Tony. I am rather at a loss to describe the plot of his novel other than to say it borders on being a classic and of a genre that is not at present recognised.
The novel is called Sword of the King and the chapters were from the very beginning and called 'The pebbles of Power'
Tony's novel has cleverly woven together homework from the years gone by until reaching what he finally considers to be a finished novel. He tells us that there is already interest in his production so we wish him well in the venture.
This was an evening enjoyed by all and hopefully of use to Dave and Tony.
The homework subject for next meeting on the 6th March is 'BLANK' chosen by Lyndsay.
Good luck and keep scribbling.
Barry.
Apologies came from Les, who is at present having to look out for Joan who has not been well. Carolyn who is off travelling again, Our treasurer Beryl who has unfortunately sprained her wrist and lastly Caz.
Members present were; Dave, Dick, Ally, Liliane, Sally, Cathy, Sandy, Martin, Ally, Tony and yours truly.We welcomed Lyndsay into the fold, hoping she will be a regular visitor and contributor.
We had just two readings for the evening as it was one of our critique meetings.
Dave was first to read from his novel provisionally entitled Shadow of the Trees. We listened to two chapters, the first being 'Confrontation' which came as mid way through the novel so the characters were fully formed. The novel is woven round the events following a nasty motor accident involving Pauline, one of the main characters, who was in collision with a nefarious character called Noye in his sports car. The accident was entirely his fault and he was convicted and sentenced to a spell in Hollesley Bay Prison from where he escaped.
Another character is Billy, a policeman who gets emotionally entangled with the victim, Pauline and causes a rift between himself and his wife, Judy. The chapter tells of his ferocious argument with Judy as she confronts him about his attachment to Pauline.
The second chapter was 'On the Run' and describes how Noye escapes from the prison and has reached his parents house to gather some clothing and food. He is confronted by his father who tells him what he thinks of his activities. The argument is heard by Noyes mother who enters the kitchen and begins to berate her son. This drives him crazy and he picks up a kitchen knife and stabs his mother, then in a fury stabs his father who is about to attack him.
These were powerful chapters and the meeting offered what Dave considered to be plenty of helpful feedback.
The second reader was Tony. I am rather at a loss to describe the plot of his novel other than to say it borders on being a classic and of a genre that is not at present recognised.
The novel is called Sword of the King and the chapters were from the very beginning and called 'The pebbles of Power'
Tony's novel has cleverly woven together homework from the years gone by until reaching what he finally considers to be a finished novel. He tells us that there is already interest in his production so we wish him well in the venture.
This was an evening enjoyed by all and hopefully of use to Dave and Tony.
The homework subject for next meeting on the 6th March is 'BLANK' chosen by Lyndsay.
Good luck and keep scribbling.
Barry.
Critique session
Our meeting last night produced two very different extracts from Tony and Dave's work.
Tony provided a lengthy reading from his completed fantasy work which is being submitted to a publisher for consideration today. Fingers crossed and good luck Tony.
Dave read two chapters from his ongoing work that was inspired from a homework assignment about a year ago. Plucking chapters from the middle of the work is not always ideal but it provoked some useful comments.
These type of meetings occur just twice a year but they give indepth feedback to the benefit of both the author and the audience. It is a shame that all work cannot go through this procedure but that is really an impossibility with the usual homework assignments.
Both Tony and Dave benefitted from the meeting and all those present seemed to enjoy the procedings.
Keep Scribbling
Tony provided a lengthy reading from his completed fantasy work which is being submitted to a publisher for consideration today. Fingers crossed and good luck Tony.
Dave read two chapters from his ongoing work that was inspired from a homework assignment about a year ago. Plucking chapters from the middle of the work is not always ideal but it provoked some useful comments.
These type of meetings occur just twice a year but they give indepth feedback to the benefit of both the author and the audience. It is a shame that all work cannot go through this procedure but that is really an impossibility with the usual homework assignments.
Both Tony and Dave benefitted from the meeting and all those present seemed to enjoy the procedings.
Keep Scribbling
Monday, 20 February 2012
Our next meeting...
Tuesday 21st February, 7.30pm, The Room at the Top, Felixstowe Library.
This meeting will be the third in the series of our popular critique meetings when two members of our circle share parts of their ongoing work with the group. There will be both discussion and critique on the works which, in the previous meetings, has proved extremely helpful to both writer and audience alike.
So come along to the meeting and listen to the works of Tony and Dave.
No homework assignments for this meeting... so come along and join in.
Keep Scribbling!!!
This meeting will be the third in the series of our popular critique meetings when two members of our circle share parts of their ongoing work with the group. There will be both discussion and critique on the works which, in the previous meetings, has proved extremely helpful to both writer and audience alike.
So come along to the meeting and listen to the works of Tony and Dave.
No homework assignments for this meeting... so come along and join in.
Keep Scribbling!!!
Paragraph Planet - February newsletter
Welcome to the February Newsletter for Paragraph Planet, the website which invites pieces of fiction of exactly 75 words.
January’s archive is now online - http://www.paragraphplanet.com/jan12archive.htm - and it’s the usual mixture of twist short stories, extracts from published novels and work-in-progress. There’s stories of murder, To-Do lists, kidnapping, emigrating, and a fireman‘s lift.
Some fantastic new authors have been submitting their flash fiction or novel extracts. Get involved now via http://www.paragraphplanet.com/submission.htm
Plus, I’m proud to announce further author interviews have now been added to the site. Recent interviewees include Gabrielle Kimm, Lizzie Enfield and Araminta Hall. Link to all the interviews here http://www.paragraphplanet.com/interviews.htm
Find out more about Behind The Scenes of a Writing Magazine (yes, this one) by reading the new online and downloadable What The Dickens magazine, edited by Victoria Bantock of Writers’ Gifts. http://www.wtd-magazine.com
Oh, and if you haven’t got enough to link to, on a personal note I’ve recently updated the directory for the Distracted Dad column I write for a Brighton Magazine. So if you want to know precisely how to access a column about an owl, a fridge freezer, George Harrison, or the tooth fairy, try http://www.richardhearn.talktalk.net/distracted-dad.htm
Have a good rest of your month.
Richard Hearn
http://www.paragraphplanet.com
January’s archive is now online - http://www.paragraphplanet.com/jan12archive.htm - and it’s the usual mixture of twist short stories, extracts from published novels and work-in-progress. There’s stories of murder, To-Do lists, kidnapping, emigrating, and a fireman‘s lift.
Some fantastic new authors have been submitting their flash fiction or novel extracts. Get involved now via http://www.paragraphplanet.com/submission.htm
Plus, I’m proud to announce further author interviews have now been added to the site. Recent interviewees include Gabrielle Kimm, Lizzie Enfield and Araminta Hall. Link to all the interviews here http://www.paragraphplanet.com/interviews.htm
Find out more about Behind The Scenes of a Writing Magazine (yes, this one) by reading the new online and downloadable What The Dickens magazine, edited by Victoria Bantock of Writers’ Gifts. http://www.wtd-magazine.com
Oh, and if you haven’t got enough to link to, on a personal note I’ve recently updated the directory for the Distracted Dad column I write for a Brighton Magazine. So if you want to know precisely how to access a column about an owl, a fridge freezer, George Harrison, or the tooth fairy, try http://www.richardhearn.talktalk.net/distracted-dad.htm
Have a good rest of your month.
Richard Hearn
http://www.paragraphplanet.com
Saturday, 18 February 2012
Stagefright
Don't Miss!
Until Saturday 25 February
A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production
Stagefright
With the Stagefright run extended until Saturday 25 February there are plenty of chances to catch this funny and spooky production, don't miss out!
'Gothic creepiness meets knowing comedy... this play could become a favourite.' Libby Purves, The Times
‘delicious slice of gothic horror... this production is certainly worth catching' EADT
'a delightfully funny and scary night... great to see our students clutching each other & screaming with glee' Cambridge International School
Click here to book now
Tickets £8.50 - £20
Don't forget our Under 26 Saver - £8.50 in advance
View the Stagefright Trailer »
Theatre Royal
Westgate Street
Bury St Edmunds,
IP33 1QRAdd us to your address book
Until Saturday 25 February
A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production
Stagefright
With the Stagefright run extended until Saturday 25 February there are plenty of chances to catch this funny and spooky production, don't miss out!
'Gothic creepiness meets knowing comedy... this play could become a favourite.' Libby Purves, The Times
‘delicious slice of gothic horror... this production is certainly worth catching' EADT
'a delightfully funny and scary night... great to see our students clutching each other & screaming with glee' Cambridge International School
Click here to book now
Tickets £8.50 - £20
Don't forget our Under 26 Saver - £8.50 in advance
View the Stagefright Trailer »
Theatre Royal
Westgate Street
Bury St Edmunds,
IP33 1QRAdd us to your address book
FELIXSTOWE MIND BODY SOUL EXHIBITION
Established 1999 www.lifearts.co.uk
10am to 5pm – Sunday 4th March
Felixstowe Leisure Centre, Sea Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 2BA
Treat yourself, family & friends to a “feel good day”!
· TASTER TREATMENTS
· INTERNATIONAL READERS
· UNIQUE & UNUSUAL GIFTS
· NATURAL CRYSTALS & GEMS
· CRAFTS & DISCOUNTED BOOKS
· INSPIRING WORKSHOPS
· STAGE MUSICIANS & PERFORMERS
· REFRESHMENTS
ON STAGE:
Rami - Didgeridoo, Jaw Harp, Overtone Singing, Symphonic Gongs, Khoomi Mongolian Throat Singing & Symphonic Gongs
Jonathan Hughes - Cello
African Drumming / Bollywood Belly Dancing / Saxserenade / and more …
TALKS/WORKSHOPS
TIMINGS
TITLE
10.30am
Fantastic Food for a Fitter Future! - Maggie Franks
11. 05am
Brandon Bays ‘The Journey’ - Joanna Dayton
11.40am
Detox Your House Forever : Eco cleaning Sally Mittuch BA HONS
12.15pm
Understanding Living Consciousness Dean Rees-Evans MSc
1pm
Mediumship demo – Maureen Hinton with her guide “Maorijohns”
2pm
Celtic Ballads and Bards - John Goodluck and Jo Arcand
3pm
How to Heal Yourself of Cancer! - Julia Fairfax ACHO BA HONS GRCCT
4pm
African Drumming Workshop - Eddie Mann
Admission includes talks/workshops and stage demonstrations (exception only medium demo-£3)
Adults: £3.50
Concessions: £2
16 and under: FREE
For further Information for visitors and interested
exhibitors contact Chris Cozens
Tel: 01394 277589 / 07969 770741
Email: chris@lifearts.co.uk
Website: www.lifearts.co.uk
10am to 5pm – Sunday 4th March
Felixstowe Leisure Centre, Sea Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 2BA
Treat yourself, family & friends to a “feel good day”!
· TASTER TREATMENTS
· INTERNATIONAL READERS
· UNIQUE & UNUSUAL GIFTS
· NATURAL CRYSTALS & GEMS
· CRAFTS & DISCOUNTED BOOKS
· INSPIRING WORKSHOPS
· STAGE MUSICIANS & PERFORMERS
· REFRESHMENTS
ON STAGE:
Rami - Didgeridoo, Jaw Harp, Overtone Singing, Symphonic Gongs, Khoomi Mongolian Throat Singing & Symphonic Gongs
Jonathan Hughes - Cello
African Drumming / Bollywood Belly Dancing / Saxserenade / and more …
TALKS/WORKSHOPS
TIMINGS
TITLE
10.30am
Fantastic Food for a Fitter Future! - Maggie Franks
11. 05am
Brandon Bays ‘The Journey’ - Joanna Dayton
11.40am
Detox Your House Forever : Eco cleaning Sally Mittuch BA HONS
12.15pm
Understanding Living Consciousness Dean Rees-Evans MSc
1pm
Mediumship demo – Maureen Hinton with her guide “Maorijohns”
2pm
Celtic Ballads and Bards - John Goodluck and Jo Arcand
3pm
How to Heal Yourself of Cancer! - Julia Fairfax ACHO BA HONS GRCCT
4pm
African Drumming Workshop - Eddie Mann
Admission includes talks/workshops and stage demonstrations (exception only medium demo-£3)
Adults: £3.50
Concessions: £2
16 and under: FREE
For further Information for visitors and interested
exhibitors contact Chris Cozens
Tel: 01394 277589 / 07969 770741
Email: chris@lifearts.co.uk
Website: www.lifearts.co.uk
Thursday, 16 February 2012
Hey there Pen Tale Friends
So, for our first email of 2012, we wanted to take a moment to re-introduce you to PenTales so you know exactly what we're all about. Here it goes:
PenTales is trying hard to build a culture - online and offline - where people stop and ask each other about the things we all care about, no matter where we are from or what age we are. What sort of things, you ask: well, universal human things like home, love, fear, friendship, regret...
Why? We believe that by sharing perspectives on the same topics we sometimes learn that while we're unique, we're not actually all that different from each other.
How? We try to encourage people to share stories in person and online. With your help, we've hosted live storytelling events in all different parts of the world (did you know we've got an awesome storytelling series in Reykjavik and Lahore?). We've built a simple website where anyone can send in their stories on our themes - in any medium.
And now? We'll keep thinking of new ways to get you guys to share stories. Plain and simple. Hopefully you'll help along the way.
Life Lessons
The idea behind the project is that if we pool all our lessons and nuggets of wisdom, we just might all be little bit smarter. Like owls. Owls are apparently wise.
Is there some life motto you always return back to? Something you wish someone had told you when you were younger? Well, this is your chance to share some of your hard-learned lessons with the rest of the world.
We're asking people - old and young - to give us their nuggets of wisdom.
Answer these 5 questions and help us build an arsenal of advice for humanity.
Hemingway Room
ATLANTA.BERLIN.LAS VEGAS.
In September 2011, PenTales announced the opening of the PenTales Hemingway Room - a small beautiful room in an apartment in Prenzlauer Berg, one of Berlin's most inspiring and creative neighborhoods. We've had some amazing people join us there, including Lady Gaga's old DJ and an award-winning film director. It's been such a success, we're taking this idea to other cities. Creative people can now apply to stay for free in Atlanta and Las Vegas. The only requirement: they produce creative work during their stay. Check out the BLOG for more info on how to apply and how to host your very own Hemingway Room.
Join
PenTales is a passion project run by friends. We're all just volunteers who hope we're doing a little good in the world. We're excited for anyone to join us and pitch in - in whatever shape or form. Here are some ways you can join the fun: host a storytelling event, become a regular contributor (writing / video / photography), help us with any tech stuff (we're not very good at it), copyediting, social media, and the list goes on and on and on...
TV
We have an awesome YouTube channel where we share all the videos from our events. PenTales fans also add short videos on our themes. Tune in and send in your own video story today.
Salon Nights
PenTales holds live story-sharing events in 26 cities around the world.
The events are run by friends, friends of friends, and kindred spirits, who, like us, believe in the power of storytelling.
Whether in Pakistan or Iceland, the salon nights all share the same universal topics. We then use the power of the web to make the tales told at the live local events available across borders. The larger idea is to create a connection between people of different background by getting them to talk about the same things.
www.pentales.com
Questions / Comments / Stories? Always send to writepentales@gmail.com
PenTales is trying hard to build a culture - online and offline - where people stop and ask each other about the things we all care about, no matter where we are from or what age we are. What sort of things, you ask: well, universal human things like home, love, fear, friendship, regret...
Why? We believe that by sharing perspectives on the same topics we sometimes learn that while we're unique, we're not actually all that different from each other.
How? We try to encourage people to share stories in person and online. With your help, we've hosted live storytelling events in all different parts of the world (did you know we've got an awesome storytelling series in Reykjavik and Lahore?). We've built a simple website where anyone can send in their stories on our themes - in any medium.
And now? We'll keep thinking of new ways to get you guys to share stories. Plain and simple. Hopefully you'll help along the way.
Life Lessons
The idea behind the project is that if we pool all our lessons and nuggets of wisdom, we just might all be little bit smarter. Like owls. Owls are apparently wise.
Is there some life motto you always return back to? Something you wish someone had told you when you were younger? Well, this is your chance to share some of your hard-learned lessons with the rest of the world.
We're asking people - old and young - to give us their nuggets of wisdom.
Answer these 5 questions and help us build an arsenal of advice for humanity.
Hemingway Room
ATLANTA.BERLIN.LAS VEGAS.
In September 2011, PenTales announced the opening of the PenTales Hemingway Room - a small beautiful room in an apartment in Prenzlauer Berg, one of Berlin's most inspiring and creative neighborhoods. We've had some amazing people join us there, including Lady Gaga's old DJ and an award-winning film director. It's been such a success, we're taking this idea to other cities. Creative people can now apply to stay for free in Atlanta and Las Vegas. The only requirement: they produce creative work during their stay. Check out the BLOG for more info on how to apply and how to host your very own Hemingway Room.
Join
PenTales is a passion project run by friends. We're all just volunteers who hope we're doing a little good in the world. We're excited for anyone to join us and pitch in - in whatever shape or form. Here are some ways you can join the fun: host a storytelling event, become a regular contributor (writing / video / photography), help us with any tech stuff (we're not very good at it), copyediting, social media, and the list goes on and on and on...
TV
We have an awesome YouTube channel where we share all the videos from our events. PenTales fans also add short videos on our themes. Tune in and send in your own video story today.
Salon Nights
PenTales holds live story-sharing events in 26 cities around the world.
The events are run by friends, friends of friends, and kindred spirits, who, like us, believe in the power of storytelling.
Whether in Pakistan or Iceland, the salon nights all share the same universal topics. We then use the power of the web to make the tales told at the live local events available across borders. The larger idea is to create a connection between people of different background by getting them to talk about the same things.
www.pentales.com
Questions / Comments / Stories? Always send to writepentales@gmail.com
Cancer Research UK Relay For Life poetry competition
Last year we had a good responce to our competition but hope to have an even bigger one this year. The winning poem "Pass the Parcel" by Sally Adams was read out at the Opening ceremony and it was a poignant moment.
We wonder if your members would like to enter the competition and maybe some would like to join us at Ickworth Park on 23rd June 2012?
The details of how to enter are on the website www.poemforlife.com
Julie Grimsey
Bury St Edmunds,
Relay For Life committee
We wonder if your members would like to enter the competition and maybe some would like to join us at Ickworth Park on 23rd June 2012?
The details of how to enter are on the website www.poemforlife.com
Julie Grimsey
Bury St Edmunds,
Relay For Life committee
Competitions...
http://www.jbwb.co.uk/writingcomps.htm
http://www.bridportprize.org.uk/stories.htm
I have been perusing the 'interweb' and wondered if any of you would be interested in these competition pages.
The Bridport page is a particularly good competition page with high value prizes for short stories and poetry or flash fiction. With the homework we all subscribe to, these sites would be a good way for any one interested to get their work 'out there'.
There is usually an entry fee but it all provides good practice.
Barry
http://www.bridportprize.org.uk/stories.htm
I have been perusing the 'interweb' and wondered if any of you would be interested in these competition pages.
The Bridport page is a particularly good competition page with high value prizes for short stories and poetry or flash fiction. With the homework we all subscribe to, these sites would be a good way for any one interested to get their work 'out there'.
There is usually an entry fee but it all provides good practice.
Barry
Tuesday, 14 February 2012
Thursday, 9 February 2012
On the run for 19 years
Eddie Maher, known as "Fast Eddie", has been arrested in America on immigration charges. He has been wanted in this country ever since he vanished after a £1 million theft from a security van in Felixstowe in 1993.The alleged crime happened outside Lloyds Bank in Hamilton Road, when a colleague made a delivery to the bank while Maher waited outside in the vehicle. The van vanished and was later found empty on the seafront. Gone was £1 million pounds in coins and notes.
Suffolk Police are liaising with US authorities and wish to interview Maher in connection with the robbery in 1993.
Meeting report for 7th Feb 2012
Here's to all members that braved the cold and crunchy weather on Tuesday evening.
Ten of us made it to the meeting: Dave, Caz, Carolyn, Dick, Tony, Rani, Liliane, Martin Barry and Ray.
The homework subject was NEWS and we had the usual diversity of entries ranging from true life to way out there.
Herein a short indication.
Tony gave us a stand up version of a news summary with many misprints.
Rani, another portion of her Ed stories. Where the narrator was checking papers and hearing strange voices.
Lilian, a long conversation piece with lots of chit chat.
Martin. A touching story from Anglia News of a tragic accident involving Kelly Green and her donations to other people in need of organs.
Ray reflected on his youth in Kent when he was a butcher's boy with many famous or soon to be; people.
My contribution was a brief run through of three weeks in America, trapped behind the Iceland volcano.
Dave gave us more involving Pauline called The Waiting Game.
Caz amused us with her shopping spree with a reluctant partner, searching for a red coat and the Lost Glove (ed: what about this as a follow up to the Lost Sock???)
Carolyn had a piece of most truth about the time
when a relative has to be told he is too old to drive. (but never too old for emotional blackmail.)
Finally Dick gave us a true story of how Herr Hitler spoiled his perfect day out at the seaside when war was declared.
Thanks to all and the next meeting will be on 21st Feb where there will be no homework, just two long pieces read by Dave and Tony, with the meeting giving feedback on their efforts.
Keep Scribbling.
Barry.
Ten of us made it to the meeting: Dave, Caz, Carolyn, Dick, Tony, Rani, Liliane, Martin Barry and Ray.
The homework subject was NEWS and we had the usual diversity of entries ranging from true life to way out there.
Herein a short indication.
Tony gave us a stand up version of a news summary with many misprints.
Rani, another portion of her Ed stories. Where the narrator was checking papers and hearing strange voices.
Lilian, a long conversation piece with lots of chit chat.
Martin. A touching story from Anglia News of a tragic accident involving Kelly Green and her donations to other people in need of organs.
Ray reflected on his youth in Kent when he was a butcher's boy with many famous or soon to be; people.
My contribution was a brief run through of three weeks in America, trapped behind the Iceland volcano.
Dave gave us more involving Pauline called The Waiting Game.
Caz amused us with her shopping spree with a reluctant partner, searching for a red coat and the Lost Glove (ed: what about this as a follow up to the Lost Sock???)
Carolyn had a piece of most truth about the time
when a relative has to be told he is too old to drive. (but never too old for emotional blackmail.)
Finally Dick gave us a true story of how Herr Hitler spoiled his perfect day out at the seaside when war was declared.
Thanks to all and the next meeting will be on 21st Feb where there will be no homework, just two long pieces read by Dave and Tony, with the meeting giving feedback on their efforts.
Keep Scribbling.
Barry.
Wednesday, 8 February 2012
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
The News
Ten brave souls ignored the cold, icy weather to attend our meeting tonight including Rani who is down from London. Once again we heard ten very diverse stories all delivered with professionalism capturing the imagination of everyone in attendance.
Great meeting, shame that some had to understandably call off and miss the entertainment.
Thankyou to those who came along.
The Scribe
Great meeting, shame that some had to understandably call off and miss the entertainment.
Thankyou to those who came along.
The Scribe
Tonight's meeting is ON...
The NEWS is that despite the inclement weather the decision has been made to go ahead with tonight's meeting at the Room at the Top in the Library. Start time remains at 7.30pm. The topic for tonight is 'News', so there may be plenty to hear.
Hope to see you this evening... take care and be safe...
Keep Scribbling!
Hope to see you this evening... take care and be safe...
Keep Scribbling!
Friday, 3 February 2012
Grace Dieu Writers' Circle 2012 Writing Competition
Poetry Competition: A poem on any subject – maximum 40 lines
1st Prize: £500; 2nd Prize: £200; 3rd Prize: £100; 4th Prize: £75; 5th Prize: £50
Entry Fees: £4 for one poem or £12 for 4, £3 for each additional entry over four
Short Story Competition: A story on any subject – maximum 2,000
1st Prize: £500; 2nd Prize: £200; 3rd Prize: £100; 4th Prize:£75; 5th Prize: £50
Entry Fees: £5 for first and £3 for additional stories
Closing date: 28th February, 2012.
Full details and entry forms can be found on our website at www.gracedieuwriterscircle.co.uk
1st Prize: £500; 2nd Prize: £200; 3rd Prize: £100; 4th Prize: £75; 5th Prize: £50
Entry Fees: £4 for one poem or £12 for 4, £3 for each additional entry over four
Short Story Competition: A story on any subject – maximum 2,000
1st Prize: £500; 2nd Prize: £200; 3rd Prize: £100; 4th Prize:£75; 5th Prize: £50
Entry Fees: £5 for first and £3 for additional stories
Closing date: 28th February, 2012.
Full details and entry forms can be found on our website at www.gracedieuwriterscircle.co.uk
Wednesday, 1 February 2012
Prole Laureate Competition
The Prole Laureate Prize for poetry 2012 closes in a month on 1st March. There is a small entry fee that goes towards publication costs of Prole, Poetry and Prose.
We are open to all forms of poetry: free, blank, structured, rhymed, humorous or serious. There is no line limit. You write it, we’ll read it. Once the short list is formed, it will be sent to our Judge. This year Andrew McMillan has kindly agreed to make the final choices.
A brief summary is below. Full details are available from our website here: http://www.prolebooks.co.uk/page6.html
Winner: £130, publication in April 2012 issue of Prole and on the website.
The right to call yourself Prole Laureate!
Two runners up: £25 each, publication on our website and possible publication in our April 2012 print issue.
All entires must be previously unpublished.
By email.
Your name, contact details, paypal reference number and poem/poems should be contained in the body of the email and sent to
poetrycompetition@prolebooks.co.uk
If you want to include a short bio, feel free.
By post.
Contact details should appear on each page used.
Cheques should be made payable to Prolebooks.
Mail to:
Prolebooks
15 Maes-y-Dre
Abergele
Conwy
LL22 7HW
£3 for first entry, £2 for subsequent entries.
We are open to all forms of poetry: free, blank, structured, rhymed, humorous or serious. There is no line limit. You write it, we’ll read it. Once the short list is formed, it will be sent to our Judge. This year Andrew McMillan has kindly agreed to make the final choices.
A brief summary is below. Full details are available from our website here: http://www.prolebooks.co.uk/page6.html
Winner: £130, publication in April 2012 issue of Prole and on the website.
The right to call yourself Prole Laureate!
Two runners up: £25 each, publication on our website and possible publication in our April 2012 print issue.
All entires must be previously unpublished.
By email.
Your name, contact details, paypal reference number and poem/poems should be contained in the body of the email and sent to
poetrycompetition@prolebooks.co.uk
If you want to include a short bio, feel free.
By post.
Contact details should appear on each page used.
Cheques should be made payable to Prolebooks.
Mail to:
Prolebooks
15 Maes-y-Dre
Abergele
Conwy
LL22 7HW
£3 for first entry, £2 for subsequent entries.
CREATIVE PRINT PUBLISHING LTD - FEBRUARY 2012 HISTORICAL and MYTHOLOGICAL COMPETITION
UNPUBLISHED FICTION AUTHORS PRINT READY COMPETITION
This competition starts February 2012.
The closing date for this competition is the 29th February 2012 23:59 BST.
FEBRUARY 2012 - HISTORICAL and MYTHOLOGICAL
This is a genuine, no fee competition that stretches over 12 months.Each month a different genre; each month a winner. Winners are offered a contract, paid royalties, and receive full promotion and marketing strategies.This is not a competition with prizes. There is no entry fee.
Only Print Ready novels of genuine merit will be chosen.
Your book could be a winner.
Full details of rules, genres and how to submit,on our website, http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions.phpEntry form here: http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions/competition-entry.php
This competition starts February 2012.
The closing date for this competition is the 29th February 2012 23:59 BST.
FEBRUARY 2012 - HISTORICAL and MYTHOLOGICAL
This is a genuine, no fee competition that stretches over 12 months.Each month a different genre; each month a winner. Winners are offered a contract, paid royalties, and receive full promotion and marketing strategies.This is not a competition with prizes. There is no entry fee.
Only Print Ready novels of genuine merit will be chosen.
Your book could be a winner.
Full details of rules, genres and how to submit,on our website, http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions.phpEntry form here: http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions/competition-entry.php
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