One Brick At A Time

Writing a book involves the creation of one small chunk of material at a time, because to contemplate the project in its entirety is a set up for insanity and failure. Thus the elephant-eating metaphor I like to use—How do you eat an elephant? Yes, one bite at a time....

You CAN Tell A Book By Its Cover

I don’t care what my mother said. You CAN tell a book by its cover, particularly if it’s been designed well. I tripped over this video this morning. Not only is it entertaining, it gives such terrific insight into what actually goes into the whole book...

That Tendency To Ignore Blatantly Unpleasant Facts

Like a junkie with a 14-gauge needle, my mother used books to blot out reality. Curled up in her chair, immersed in a novel, she ceased to be aware of anyone or anything around her. When she put her book down, exposed herself to the rage and tension that contaminated...

Gorillas, But Not In The Mist

As my clients finish up their manuscripts, we often have a conversation about what comes next. “Do I self-publish?” they ask. “Do I enter into a contract with a partnership press?” “Do I pursue an agent so I can get a contract with a...

For The Birds

A blast from the past. Being an introvert, I need a lot of time to myself.  I spend most mornings happily surrounded by a pack of dogs and the quiet. I read, think, and write. Even with Walt present, I can be alone.  He has similar rhythms. We can lose entire days to...