Charmalot Chronicles

Manga Muse: EYES

2012-02-15T12:46:00.000-08:00

This post looks Manga eye-to-eye.

Manga eyes are so expressive. They're the most exciting facial feature.

* The eyes are windows into your character *

Countless feelings and emotion can be conveyed through subtle and not-so-subtle techniques. I found the Eye Charts below helpful because you see a host of emotions up-close and how vividly shape, detail, lashes and color can make an eye sparkle.

I didn't realize how many brilliant ways there were to capture emotion! Through tears, close-eyed happiness, or wide-eyed brightness. I wish I had the talent of these artists.

I’m working on some new characters and learning to draw Manga. While I’ve done character drawings and sketches before, none were really Manga-style. I’m still developing my ‘sight,’ how in writing we have a ‘voice.’ It’s fun, challenging, and creative.

I drew this

Also, I have this awesome book:

What Manga books do you recommend?

Do you draw Manga? What do you draw? Let me know!

* * *

(images named after source)

[Melody/Monday: Trance - Take My Hand]

2012-02-13T11:28:00.000-08:00

( ( ( (( ILOVETRANCE )) ) ) )

Take My Hand dazzles so brightly it blinds. This is huge, pulsing melody. Pure dancepop sound. A fierce glittering power, pounding exhilerating irresistable. I hear it and want more. I'm addicted to art that works inside, takes you to a different place, changes you and passionately never lets go * I need it * One listen to this and alchemy begins, blood rushing neon, turning my heart to light.

What are you listening to?

(image source: jurrane.com)

Pinterest Invite, Pretty Please?

2012-02-10T16:50:00.000-08:00

* Thank you, Jennifer! And Anonymous! *

I appreciate it very much!

I'm now on Pinterest.
Welcome to the world of Prince Ezrick.
...more pages to come...

Click me

Are you on Pinterest? Let me know.

* * *

Is anyone on Pinterest?

Will you invite me? Pretty, pretty please :)

...with whipped cream...

...sprinkles...

And cherries on top ? ? ?

Pinterest is a personal online bulletin board where you create cool collages, dreamy universes, storybook worlds, inspiring art, and magical things. Like Prince Ezrick pages.

* I wants one *

But you have to be invited.

Pretty please?

Thank you!

(Image source: pinterest.com and blog.templatemonster.com)

Illustrious Illustrator: Emma Florence Harrison

2012-02-10T10:40:00.000-08:00

Beholding Emma Florence Harrison's artworks I am swept away by their noble, haunting beauty. Her illustrations are regal, mostly of women; always of lingering grief or sadness, a deep, moving loss. I find these images incredibly lovely, flooded with refined emotion. Such poignant masterpieces. I hope you like them, too. Happy weekend!

“Emma Florence Harrison (1877–1955) was an English Art Nouveau and Pre-Raphaelite illustrator of poetry and children's books.”

(Image source: artmagick.com and artsycraftsy.com; Facts from Wiki)

Illustrious Illustrator: Warwick Goble

2012-02-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

Children's illustrator Warwick Goble left the world a storybook treasure chest brimming with mellifluous, enchanting art. His works are a study of jewel-bright tones and diffused color, softness, graceful figures, beautiful costume, lovely backdrops, and a presence of magic. Infused with Indian, Asian, and Arthurian romance, these pieces transport you to enthralling worlds, filling me with appreciation and wonder. I love dreaming up tales behind each illustration. The Prince and his horse above remind me of Ezrick and Argo :)

Goble was a gifted artist, his art luminous and classic.

Warwick Goble
(1862 – 1943)

Goble was born in Dalton, North London. At age 34 he began illustrating children’s picture books. He'd previously worked at a printing press, drawing art for monthly magazines, his work already exhibited at the Royal Academy. During World War I he volunteered for the French Red Cross. “Goble gradually gave up illustration to pursue sculling, cycling, and travelling. He died in his Surrey home in 1943.”

India

Asia

Fairy Tale

(Source: goble.artpassions.net and Google Images; Facts from Wikipedia)

[Melody/Monday: Shiny Toy Guns - Rainy Monday]

2012-02-06T08:15:00.000-08:00

Rainy Monday by Shiny Toy Guns is a silvery gem I still listen to after years. Shimmering, clear, and radiant, it's an elevating song despite wistful, bittersweet lyrics, bringing back those selfsame memories in a rush: wanting someone you can't be with . . . that feeling of being left out in the rain . . . the wish that didn't come true. This song is like tilting my head back and letting clean, sparkling rain wash away dusty hope and useless longing, the only way for something new, unexpected, and better to grow.

Rain or shine, whether you're moving forward or moving on, it's comforting to know Mondays are a fresh start.

Today I'm picking up my mom and sister from the airport!

They were gallivanting through Italy, lucky ducks.

What makes this Monday exciting for you?

(image source)

Ezrick meets Karou is starstruck

2012-02-03T15:26:00.000-08:00

When I saw what you're looking at, I gasped.

No. I wasn't possibly seeing clearly.

Shaking, I reached for my glasses.

Then remembered.

I don’t wear glasses.

(0.0)'

"Oh my God."

*PASSES OUT*

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse.

Next to LAINI TAYLOR.

One of my MOSTE FAVORITE AUTHORS.

On the eBook Best Seller List.

...a l m o s t t o u c h i n g...

*clutches Daughter of Smoke and Bone to heart, this is a dream*

Honesty, if you haven't, read her book NOW. The storytelling is cool, strange, and breathtaking. And it's being made into a movie! I’d let you borrow my battered copy, but computer screens... grrrr.

(Also, Laini just announced the next book is called Days of Blood and Starlight.
My love for this title is epic.)

Enough madness. How on earth did this mystifying, impossible, unimaginable thing happen. Well, to honor Prince Ezrick’s release, I listed the book for free. In the course of 24 hours, Prince Ezrick hit the Children’s eBook Best Seller list. By the time I crawled into bed beyond lightheaded, the book had reached these spots:

#8 in Action/Adventure

#22 in Fantasy/Magic

#90 in the Children’s top 100

I am still in disbelief and don't know how this happened. I'm hoping it's because Kindlings (er, people who read on Kindles) found the cover intriguing, liked the book's description and sample, and downloaded the book with intentions to read it. I myself wouldn’t clutter my Kindle with books I'd no interest or intention to read. But honestly, I have no idea. I cling to the terribly exciting thought that people are reading the book this very minute. Which makes my heart smile, and also gives me heart palpitations.

Fingers crossed the free-flurry will win new readers and spark good word-of-mouth. I was in no way expecting or prepared to see my book on the Best Seller list. Fellow writers, if this could happen to me, this could absolutely happen to your book. Should nothing come of it, I'm still ecstatic, and simply witnessing the picture above was an incredible moment in my life, and utterly surreal. I'll remember it forever.

THANK YOU to everyone who downloaded the book! Happy reading!! :)

What's on your Kindle?

I just got Diana Gabaldon's Outlander.

My first official Kindle book!

[Melody/Monday: Mika - We Are Young & Elle Me Dit]

2012-01-30T13:12:00.000-08:00

I *LOVE* Mika

He is a rush of bright pop fun. His music packs a color-punch of joyous sound about Life- World- and Self-Love. We Are Young is sing-out-loud empowering. Sung with an edge of defiance, the brave lyrics and melody will make your heart soar. This song is larger than life. Its spirit’s been down but not beaten. It makes me remember:

Be yourself. Everyone else is taken. -Oscar Wilde

Be the change you wish to see in the world. -Mahatma Gandhi

* Also listen to "Elle Me Dit" . It's brilliant *

Happy Monday!

(Image source dailymail.co.uk)

Royal Announcement! It's Prince Ezrick Day!

2012-01-28T19:37:00.000-08:00

* Ring the bells!!! Sound the trumpets!!! *

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse

Is on Kindle!!! (^-^)/

Click for Prince Ezrick's Amazon page!

Yes! At last it's here!

- The book description -

13-year-old Prince Ezrick of Urkeneye can’t stay out of trouble. From horseback riding through the Dungeons to his frowned-upon friendship with the servant-girl, and his recent expulsion from school (the one joy that made life bearable), his life’s a royal mess. His cold stepmother and unloving father further fuel his misery, and after an especially awful incident, Ezrick flees to join a colorful camp of travelers called Vagaries. What follows is a journey across kingdoms, where he discovers exciting new freedom, friendship, and adventure. But fun is fleeting, and being a royal runaway ushers Ezrick down a dark path of telling lies at every turn. Only, he’s not the only one with secrets. Something evil is afoot, threatening all realms, and as Ezrick pieces together the chilling mystery surrounding his kingdom and Morpheäs, he realizes the troubles he left behind were merely a whisper of the nightmare ahead. . . .

The book is even available at Amazon sites abroad! Aahh! So amazing!!

• Amazon.com

• Amazon.co.uk

• Amazon.de

• Amazon.es

• Amazon.fr

• Amazon.it

Guess what? You don't even have to own Kindle to read the book.

Click here for a bazillion ways to read Kindle books without a Kindle

I can't believe it. All day has been a state of pure, heartpounding joy. A dizzying emotional rush. When I started Prince Ezrick ten years ago never could I *DREAM* this moment. Kindle didn’t exist. I was just a kid in high school. With a huge homework assignment.

I wrote Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse when I was nineteen. When you reach 12th grade my high school requires a Senior Project, an intensive study project requiring a research paper, so many work hours, a portfolio, presentation, and evaluation at year's end.

I chose to write and illustrate my own picture book. (I was an old senior)

The day I began I remember vividly. I was sitting in our small desk-area upstairs. I have sisters, so there were two desks there for doing homework, and I was sitting between the twin desks, light coming in through the window behind me, ready to begin my dummy (a book mock-up). At this point I’d already a storyline in mind and done sketches of my animal character, a little owl. Now was time to map the story.

Only, I didn't. I saw a boy.

He was wearing royal robes and a crown, and his name was Ezrick Leary.

A glazed look came over my eyes . . . Pencil and paper in hand, the owl story evaporated into air. I wrote down the vision and drew a huge picture of Ezrick on poster board with marker and glitter on the crown (this became a visual aid in my presentation). Then I set to making up his story. I got the teacher's approval later.

The first draft took three months handwritten. Er, the fact I wasn't graduating if I didn't finish was motivating. I’d attempted a book at sixteen, but lost interest. I don’t even remember what that was about. But I finished Prince Ezrick and Lo! I had a book!

At the end of the year I gave my presentation before the panel, talked about the writing process and read a chapter. Then I graduated. And it really hit me.

*I HAD A BOOK*

... (0.o) ...

I could publish it.

I read it a few a times and knew it needed work. Furiously I revised, all through college and university (*ahem* possibly during class), before I decided to publish Prince Ezrick as a paperback (I'd submitted to agents and editors to some interest, but alas, no success). Wonderful things followed, like school visits, Young Author workshops, and book signings. Years passed. Life, travels, work went by. This thing called the Kindle was born, and it occurred to me . . . another crazy idea . . . .

*cue glazed look*

I revised again. Adding scenes, characters, better writing, emotional depths. I created a new cover. Until eventually, everything was ready.

Finally.

All leading up to one night.

The night I clicked this.

Ten years . . . a long time, and yet - a blink. I feel, incredibly weightless. Breathless. This momentous day brings such closure. I'm experiencing a glorious feeling I can't wrap my mind around. I’ve learned so much from Prince Ezrick and experienced great things because of and through it. It's the best feeling in the world to share it at last with you.

To anyone who reads the book,

*THANK YOU*

I hope you enjoy Prince Ezrick, his world, his adventures, his story.

Today my dream came true.

Who knows what the next years will bring,

but this feels a wonderful place to start.

Illustrious Illustrator: Walter Crane

2012-01-27T07:02:00.000-08:00

Lots of art today by celebrated artist Walter Crane!

When I study these works, I’m stunned they belong to the same person. A prolific master of many styles, his artistic scope is extraordinary. From cookie-cutter nursery rhyme illustrations, to Pre-Raphealite masterpieces, to black-and-white political drawings, to poetic water-color children's pieces, to tarot cards - Walter Crane was a marvelous talent who helped shape the world of children's illustration. Please enjoy.

Walter Crane (1845-1915)

Born in Liverpool, England

Crane was a hugely versatile artist. Part of the Arts and Crafts movement, he apprenticed three years as a wood-engraver and his produced works encompass plaster relief, tiles, stained glass, pottery, wallpaper, and textile designs in addition to easel work. Also a political artist, Crane worked to “bring art into the daily life of all classes.” His influences draw from Japanese art, masters of the Italian Renaissance, and illuminated books, as he would hand write poetry into the illustration. He also started the style of toy books (gift books for children), while his mature work is allegorical.

Crane had three children: Beatrice, Lionel and Lancelot.

King Arthur

Mythology / Biblical

Black and White

Nursery Rhymes

(images from Google; facts from Wiki)

Royal Reveal: Prince Ezrick Cover

2012-01-26T07:10:00.000-08:00

*   *   *   *   *   *   *
*   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

* Behold, the cover   *

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse

* * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * *

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

It's finally here! I hope you like it!!!

I'm tremendously pleased and think it suits the book perfectly!

Also, there's * SYMBOLISM *

Blue and gold are the royal colors of Urkeneye, Ezrick's kingdom, and also the colors of Ezrick's and Maddie's Spungeon-Uglies (pet dragons).

The looming crown: Ezrick has "prince issues," and rather than dealing with his problems he becomes a royal runaway. His life is not his own and the future's set in stone. Add to that the overwhelming symbol of responsibility and its a tough reality to face, especially at thirteen.

Dusk and dawn: my sister said the cover called these times to mind, which I love and think is powerful on many levels because Prince Ezrick has sunny moments, lazy afternoons, and starlit evenings. But also overcast days, icy twilights, and a chilling dark night of the soul :(

Lastly, the font: the font, yesssss . . . so fierce and striking . . . so old and strange . . . such a troubling and evil shade of Krayägoran black. . . .

There it is! I'm thrilled to share the cover with you at last.

For the day approaches.

Prince Ezrick will be on Kindle soon.

* * * * *

Designing your own book cover is a daunting task, but incredibly magical and rewarding. It forces you *outside* the book, to think abstractly in the language of art. Color, shape, symbols, words: everything suggests something. Nothing is without meaning.

* * * * *

What does your book's cover look like? How do you envision it?

What are your favorite covers?

Vote for Charmalot Chronicles! ( ^-^)/

2012-01-25T10:09:00.000-08:00

E x c i t i n g N e w s ! ! !

Charmalot Chronicles is yet a Top Writing Blog Nominee from eCollegeFinder. I'm still starry-eyed from this wonderful surprise, elated and immensely gratified that my blog is inspiring student writers and others in their art!

About the Award:

The Top Writing Blogs Award was created to provide students with a collection of helpful and encouraging blogs from authors, publishers, book reviewers, writing experts, and talented bloggers. We have included nominees that will inspire and teach our student readers to find their writing style and improve their skills, whether the students are writing an essay for Composition 101 or starting their first novel.

See the list and read about the other Nominee Blogs HERE. I'm honored to be included in such amazing company of writers.

Voting has begun!

II
II
V

Please vote for Charmalot Chronicles!
And everyone else!

Thank you again to whoever nominated my blog.

Good Luck, everyone!!

You can vote as many times as you want until February 3rd. Tweet about the event using use the hashtag #ECFtopwriting (view the feed here: http://twitter.com/#!/search?q=%23ECFtopwriting)!

[Melody/Monday: deadmau5 - Strobe]

2012-01-22T23:26:00.000-08:00

Strobe by deadmau5 is over 10 minutes long.

I wish it lasted forever.

I tremble describing this track with words. In my mind, Strobe is an experience in ways cosmic and profound. Every time I listen I have to close me eyes because it demands darkness and silence. The song works inside you. I can feel my body dissolve, the world become nothing; what's inside you is infinite.

The mood is heavily hypnotic. A soothing, stirring movement of cool synth sound. So futuristic, yet Elemental. I feel different after I've listened to it; illuminated, expansive. It makes me think of genesis. The beginning lulls you into haunting, nebulous space where everything is fluid and abstract beforing breaking into rhythmic, echoey techno-beats. I love it. One of my favorite songs in the world. In a word: entrancing.

[Melody/Monday: B.o.B - Magic (AHS Lip Dub)]

2012-01-16T00:17:00.000-08:00

I chose Magic as Monday's Melody because a) catchy song.

And b) this video was made by current students
of the high school I attended, and it’s

(* (* (* A M A Z I N G *) *) *)

Their talent, creativity, and spirit is insane!

Seriously! Pyrotechnics - Potter/Granger rap - Wicked dance moves - Skaters, in the halls - and SEAHAWKS! I cannot get over the crazy fun brilliance of this video! It's off the hook unreal and completely blew me away. These kids are rock stars. Basically: the sheer awesomeness of this music vid is never-ending.

I love it. It makes me so happy :D

The video was part of a High School Lip Dub contest between schools in my state to spolight student creativity.

From the educator website:

"The rules each school was asked to follow:
1. One continuous shot
2. At your school
3. Lip sync to a song (basically, a music video)
4. Use as many students from your school as you can

Restrictions: 1. No editing (video, sound, graphics, etc.) 2. All live action 3. Teachers may guide and advise crew but may not operate any production or post production equipment."

I hope you enjoy it, too.

I totally want to join that party! Or go back to high school!

Actually, I never want to go back to high school.
I only wish it had felt like this.

Pure magic.

(image from Cassidy Foster Design and coachesaid.com)

Illustrious Illustrator: Kay Rasmus Nielsen

2012-01-12T21:25:00.000-08:00

Kay Nielsen was a Danish illustrator of the Art Nouveau era. His art dwells largely in the realm of classic Fairy Tales and bares a strong Persian influence. I find his work utterly striking and some pieces deeply mystic. The landscapes are equally expressive, whether bold and stark or lavishly ornate. The figures he creates are lithe, divinely fashionable, and possess otherworldly grace. His use of shape and form is exquisite, his style vastly unique.

Artist Bio:

Kay Rasmus Nielsen

(1886 - 1957)

Nielsen was born in Denmark, but would eventually live abroad in France, England, and America. He illustrated his first collection of commissioned Fairy Tale colour plates at 27.

He worked for Disney!

Nielsen worked for four years at Disney in the late 1930’s on a recommendation to Walt himself, and provided conceptual art for many films, most notably The Little Mermaid. His artwork also appeared in Fantasia, during the “Ave Maria” and “Night on Bald Mountain” movements.

I was sad to read Nielsen died in poverty and suffered from a chronic cough. His last artworks were for local schools and a Church in Los Angeles, an illustration of the 23rd Psalm.

(Facts from Wiki, images from Google)

Top Writing Blog Award Nominee!

2012-01-10T22:24:00.000-08:00

So Friday morning I opened my email to an astonishing surprise.

*stares at screen, goes wobbly-eyed*

Charmalot Chronicles
is a Top Writing Blog Award Nominee
from eCollegefinder.org!

WOW!!

THANK YOU!!!!

I'm unfamiliar with eCollege Finder, but here is what the email said:

I have no idea who nominated my blog, but am truly, incredibly honored!

I’m not an expert, and have limited experience and knowledge about anything! But I love helping students (I am one forever) and think all levels of education - elementary, high school, college, and university - can be important keys to unlocking exciting and life-changing doors.

My blog has no objective. I'm simply sharing what moves me; maybe it moves you too. All I know is creativity and story help me cope and make sense of the world, feeding and keeping me hungry at once. The love and need are insatiably one. If my words can inspire you, that is far greater and more meaningful to me than any award. Infinitely!

Then I nominated an inspiration of my own, and in a haze of happy wonder went off to make toast.

So, thank you again :)
And congrats to everyone else who was nominated!

The eCollege email also suggested creating an advice-post on how students can improve their writing acumen.

...Ahaaa...

Sorry, just me... giving advice. Made me laugh a bit.

But if there is insight to be gleaned, my knowledge is yours.
'Tis on the way :)

Until then, the best advice I could ever give anyway is:

Write what sears your Heart / Brain / Soul

Prince Ezrick: Soundtrack

2012-01-09T08:13:00.000-08:00

... This week’s melody is ....

The Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse Soundtrack!

Agh!!! --- \(^-^)/ --- SO EPIC!!!

Given I can barely order food off a menu, choosing a playlist to immortalize my book was in the vicinity of mind-torture. I love music: many artists, many songs, many styles! It was like choosing a favorite ice cream, character, or book. I became a puddle before the ipod ... so deceptively small, yet vast ... VAST!

.........ohhh the challenge, but so, so worth it.........

What I learned: making a playlist for your book is t r i p p y... Listening to mine was like watching "Prince Ezrick: the Musical." Lyrics ignite with new meaning - emotion becomes sound - it's so real. Your story is being literally reimagined into your head. The drama, pain, love, angst - all are suddenly palpable - all beautifully clear - pure, glorious sound flowing into one long storysong.

( Novels as music: mind-bendy ..... o.0 )

Basically I selected songs for their mood, lyrics, and the feeling I get when I listen to them, in relation to scenes, characters, and events in the book. Also: though Ezrick lives in a medieval world, somehow *Angst* sounds better coming out an electric guitar and Dave Grohl than, say, a lute.

So yeah - I hope you enjoy the Prince Ezrick Soundtrack!
(it's like a book on tape!!)

All songs are awesome in their own right. But if you like the soundtrack, maybe you'll like the book ;D

(P.S. I went to school with The Lonely Forest.
So proud!! THEY ROCK!!)

* * *

If you haven't made a soundtrack for your book, do it. Because.... you'll see.

If you have, what's on your Book Playlist?

* * *

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse Soundtrack

1. Move Along - All American Rejects

2. Nothing New - Ashlee Simpson (wanted album version...)

3. Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen

4. Monkey Wrench - Foo Fighters

5. United States of Pop 2009 - DJ Earworm

6. Send Me On My Way - Rusted Root

7. 3x5 - John Mayer

8. Apologize - One Republic

9. Fell On Black Days - Soundgarden

10. Sleepwalker - Adam Lambert

11. We Sing In Time - The Lonely Forest

12. Sail - AWOLNATION

13. Help I'm Alive - Metric

14. Bold as Love - John Mayer version
15. Strawberry Fields Forever - The Beatles
(wanted the beatles, but this is pretty hot)

(click Pop-Out Player if scroll bar cuts off)

(image from mafeclipart.webs.com + crown)

Prince Ezrick: Royal Reviews

2012-01-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse will soon be available on Kindle! The book is a royal Middle Grade fantasy about a runaway prince (learn more through links on the sidebar).

Ezrick is 13-years-old, but readers older than thirteen

have enjoyed the book, too :]

(Watch the book trailer)

(Read the first three chapters)

And now for

Prince Ezrick: Royal Reviews!

(You’ll notice some of the praise is from a few years ago. That’s because I first published Prince Ezrick as a paperback in 2005. The Kindle edition is fully revised and includes added scenes!)

* * *

2006 BuzzBook Award Winner
Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association (PNBA)

2007 Writer’s Digest
Honorable Mention Winner

(out of 2,400 entries worldwide)

SCBWI Western Washington

Scholarship Winner

(Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators)

—TeensReadToo.com

“A fantastic fantasy adventure for children! Highly recommended!”

—USABookNews.com

“McMakin grabs her readers and pulls them into the page with her lively, action-filled plot and lyrical writing. This is a remarkable first novel from a remarkable writer. I haven’t been this engrossed in an author’s fantasy world since I read Lloyd Alexander’s Prydain series many years ago.”

—Carol Reed-Jones, author of Salmon Stream, The Tree in the Ancient Forest, and Hildegard of Bingen: Woman of Vision

“A fast-paced fantasy adventure with a dash of humor and plenty of plot twists to tickle a reader’s fancy.”

—Janet Lee Carey, author of Wenny Has Wings, Dragon's Keep,

The Beast of Noor, and Dragonswood

“McMakin offers a fresh voice in the literary world of fantasy by introducing readers to an appealing adventure and engaging characters. She offers up the right blend of magic and fantastical scenarios with familiar elements to hook even the most reluctant fantasy reader.”

—Nancy J. Johnson, English Education Professor, Western Washington University, creator of the Children's Literature Conference, and 2003 Newbery Committee Member

“A rousing fantasy adventure, full of wonder and whimsy, sure to enthrall the young reader. Fast-paced and brimming with imaginative fun!”

—Sara Stamey, Tarragon Books publisher

and author of the novel Islands

“A runaway prince joins a group of gypsy-like vagabonds and a lively adventure begins! McMakin weaves together themes of rebellion, friendship, loyalty, justice, and courage in this absorbing first novel.”

—Roxann Heffelfinger, Challenge teacher, Island View Elementary

“Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse is a delightful book — well written, with all the elements of a suspenseful, adventurous fantasy novel. A fun read!”

—Laura Picco, Village Books, Bellingham, WA

“One of my favorite books in the contest and I enjoyed reading all the way through . . . . The story is creative, full of magic and adventure. The world, characters, and creatures McMakin has created are very fun and inventive. She has carefully crafted a wonderful fantasy that I think children will devour (and adults secretly enjoy)." —Writer’s Digest Judge

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse has also been featured in:

Baker & Taylor’s “Books for Growing Minds”

PNBA’s Holiday Books: The Best of the Independent Northwest

* * *

I'm deeply grateful to everyone who read the book and honored by their words. Thank you, they mean the world. -Jordan

(image from Google)

[Melody/Monday: Breathe Carolina - Blackout]

2012-01-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

…*this song on repeat * … ( ((0_o)))) ) … . *so awesome* . . . .

………* listennnnnnow . . ...........

I heard Breathe Carolina on Canadian radio. First listen = INTENSE adrenaline rush and now I’m addicted! The fierce dance-club beat is pure exhilaration and starry-synth melody transcends. It’s euphoric - like color on fire. His voice, *love it* — so reckless ;) Gets me inspired… makes me miss New York… reminds me I’m alive...
I'd die for it <3

What inspired you today?

Happy New Year!!! ( ^-^)/

2011-12-31T22:01:00.000-08:00

Best Wishes,

and may your Heart SMILE in 2012!!! :D

* LIVE * LAUGH * LOVE *

Follow your Dreams

THIS IS YOUR LIFE!!!

*It’s a wonderful world*

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

X O X O X O X

* CHARM *

\( ^-^) /

Disney + Annie Leibovitz = Vanity Fairy Tale

2011-12-30T14:46:00.000-08:00

Disney holds a special, golden place in my heart.

For starters, it's a scientific Element of my childhood! There were the animated classics, my favorite characters (...Donald duck, Alice in Wonderland, Cruella De Vil...) the stuffed animals, the Happy Meal toys, the school supplies (…Lion King peechee folders…), the music I will always know by heart, the piano songs I still play!

Ah . . . so wonderful (^-^)/

I was even so lucky to work at Disney * Hyperion Books, with tremendous, talented people.

Yes, I completely associate Disney with happiness and dreams.

So I loved Annie Leibowitz’s Disney Dream Portraits, a photographic collection of actors and athletes transformed into Disney’s classic fairy tale characters. (pictures below post)

I think they’re pretty enchanting. I also noticed there’s nothing really new in Liebovitz’s depiction of the characters, which I realize is the brilliance. The pictures are, in fact, quite understated. While it’s amusing to see which famous person became which fabled person, kids likely couldn't care less. What’s magical is how she captured a Truth. A Disney character's essence. These portraits look alive, natural — she’s photographed fairy tales in the wild, or the characters just posed for the magazine-shoot. They live on outside these pictures.

I see these pictures and feel I’m witnessing a stolen moment in an immortal character’s life, inspiring me to wonder: “King Arthur posed for Vanity Fair? Du Lac’s gonna be totally jealous!” or “Ooh, love her gown — must find out which magic mice designed it.”

Essentially, the images don’t stray from the character’s heart. Liebovitz is not reinventing these characters or pushing to be provocative (well, maybe she is. I don’t know). I just find beauty in the pictures’ simplicity, fun and faithfulness to character.

Also, I love Roger Federer

So as writers, ask yourself: if Annie Leibowitz were photographing your characters’ Truth, what would their picture look like?

It could totally happen.

King Arthur
*swoon!*

Beauty & the Beast

Cinderella

Little Mermaid

Ursula

Evil Queen

Prince Charming

Pocahontas (and colors of the wind!)

Aladdin & Jasmine

Genie in a bottle

Peter Pan & Wendy

Fairies

Alice in Wonderland

Sleeping Beauty

Belle

The Hobbit: Old and New Again

2011-12-27T20:33:00.000-08:00

Whoa, I saw The Hobbit trailer! Ya!!

I can’t wait for this movie (but am forced to, because it doesn’t come out till NEXT CHRISTMAS >.< )

The trailer release aligns perfectly with what my next post was about – the *old* Hobbit movie. I speak of the 1977 animated classic from Rankin/Bass (now Studio Ghibli). This movie unifies my love of picture book illustration and manga/anime.

I first experienced The Hobbit book and film in 2nd grade; both left wild, indelible impressions on my soul. Such wonderful and strange things live in these pages, I thought. The names, the places . . . Bilbo Baggins, hobbits, dwarves, round green doors, mutton, fancy smoke rings, sting, trolls, spiders, lonely mountain, treasure, moons, Smog - and Gandalf!

I finished the book in awe. Then our teacher showed us the movie.

It was *magical*

So strange and enchanting! Ugly and beautiful, like olden fairy tales. I was never the same. Nothing of the art was sugarcoated or pretty, like in Disney movies. The faces here were strange and old, with odd Hobbits, and dwarves with big noses, wrinkles, funny beards, and baggy eyes. Everything about this world was different. The music spirits you utterly away and still gives me chills. Also, I’d never seen a cartoon entirely of men. It was mature, dangerous stuff, this magic. Grim, dark, and profound. J.R.R. Tolkien’s story left me shiny-eyed. This was words and magic like I’d never seen.

The art is detailed and magnificent. Human characters are flawed and resemble true people. Gollum terrified me. His physical form, voice, those eyes . . . a creature left festering in dark, dank caves—I’d never seen a character so wretched and unnerving. I prefer the Rankin/Bass rendition to the live-action movie.

So, if you haven't seen this film, you must. 'Tis something to behold.

What were books and films that changed and inspired you as a child?

(For the uninitiated: some eloquent art stills and a video clip. Enjoy! ;)

"Hobbiton"

fancy smoke rings

down to business

Council of Elrond

preciousssss

lonely mountain

[ Rankin/Bass brought us the stop-motion Christmas classics Frosty Snowman, Rudolf, and on. But in the throes of research I also discovered they made such gems as THE LAST UNICORN and RETURN TO OZ, two of my FAVORITE movies of all time!? WIN! My heart smiles. Everything is connected. ]

Manga Muse!!! ( ^-^)/

2011-12-26T13:20:00.000-08:00

Hi! To share my love of Manga, I’m adding a new series to showcase Manga Art and Artists, called Manga Muse!

I lovelovelove cute things, they make me happy. Manga, Sanrio, Kawaii, Anime - such a *cuteness explosion*

mythical detective loki

manga eyes

Manga are Japanese comics of various genre. My favorite have fun surprising romances and colorful storylines. I'm especially fond of Manga art for its charisma and charm. Also: expressiveness! Manga eyes, smiles, blushing, tears – so expressive!

Manga form is highly stylized and even takes special reading skillz (Back to Front >.<). Plus it's fun to draw! But mostly I'm inspired by the art.

I would love to see my characters manga-fied!

So . . . more Manga Muse to come ;)

What are your favorite Manga and characters?
How was everyone's holiday?

(all images from Google)

Prince Ezrick: First Three Chapters!

2011-12-14T14:13:00.000-08:00

Guess what???

The first THREE chapters of

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse
are online!!!! :D

It makes me feel like a marzipan snowman!! I am SO EXCITED to share the chapters with you!!!

Some of the colorful characters you'll meet:

Ezrick Leary: 13-year-old prince and unhappy heir to the Urken throne. Has a troubled family life, frowned-upon friendship with the servant girl, and was recently expelled from school (the one joy that made life bearable). The illegal Spungeon-Uglies he's hatched in the Dungeon confirm his life's a royal mess.

Maddie Baker: 12-year-old servant-girl, and daughter of Mrs. Baker, the Castle Cook. She curses animatedly and can be stubborn as a smudge that won’t come off. Mostly illiterate, though Ezrick is giving her reading lessons. Exhibits no qualms about hatching illegal Spungeon-Uglies because they are illegal.

Spungeon-Uglies: Small, colorful dragons with unique and special talents (to be revealed in the Kindle book!)

Glooms: Creepy Castle Knights with grinning helms.

Queen Vicursa: Ezrick’s stepmother. Tall, cruel, and skilled in cold elegance. No sense of humor evident, and her wardrobe is entirely black. Hobbies include making Ezrick’s life misery, and playing eerie harp music.

King Leary: Not present. *so typical*

Chapter Titles:

1. Spungeon-Uglies

2. Vicursa

3. The Lesson

So, tell your friends!!!

Click the links below to read Prince Ezrick on Issuu or Scribd

(chapters may take a second to load). I hope you enjoy them! :)

Prince Ezrick on ISSUU

Prince Ezrick at SCRIBD

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!

And Happy Holidays!! xoxo Charm

(cute christmas cookies!)

Book Trailer - Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse

2011-12-05T21:10:00.000-08:00

I hope you like it! And that it gets you excited to read the book.

You're welcome to post the video on your own blogs and twitter. I would be really honored and appreciate it if you did!!

Stay tuned for Prince Ezrick reviews, cover reveal, and excerpts.

If you'd like to review the book for your blog, please leave a comment or email me.

Meet Prince Ezrick HERE

Visit Norwin HERE

So, how are your WIPs going?

What about your Christmas gifts? I'm nearly finished with mine but still need to wrap them, and looking forward to holiday baking! Also bought candy canes, the days are sparkling with frost, and Vince Guaraldi's "Charlie Brown Christmas" is on repeat. *JOY*

Illustrator: Mercer Mayer

2011-11-29T00:04:00.000-08:00

Lady Gaga made "Little Monsters" cool, but Mercer Mayer made them cool first!

Mayer’s kooky illustrations have enamored me since I was a kid. I remember his characters, visually, so well. His stories are full of critters, creatures, and weird friendly monsters. LOTS of them. He's published over 300 books!

His talent shines on the page through his countless artistic styles, which are impressively diverse. From the cartoonish, to exquisite fairy tale renderings, to graphic, color-rich spreads depicting bold characters and muted landscapes (as demonstrated in Shibumi and the Kitemaker).

Mayer is probably best known for the Little Critters series. My favorite book of his was One Monster After Another. The art is dark and overcast, and roiling with grim delight. He also illustrated The Great Brain series by John D. Fitzgerald, which I adored.

Born in 1943, Mayer moved to Hawaii at 13 (his father was in the Navy). There he attended Honolulu Academy of Arts. He now lives in New England where he and his wife create Little Critter books together.

Mayer is one of the first illustrators to popularize the wordless picture book, where story is conveyed entirely through art.

“Upon moving to NYC after university, an art director told Mayer his portfolio was so bad he needed to throw it away. Though offended, Mayer did.” Don't know if I could've done that :s

One person said Mayer's art taught her how to draw beautiful hands. I thought what a lovely compliment.

In addition to Mayer's illustrious illustrating talent, he plays the ukulele, too.

Visit Mercer Mayer’s Gallery here.

(Bio facts from Wikipedia)

Some of my favorite Mayer illustrations:

Royal Announcement: The Title!

2011-11-21T00:16:00.000-08:00

I give you another gem about my book!

The title is:

Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse

The Kindle edition will be available after New Year's, and I've been working hard to make every word sparkle and gleam like jewels in a crown.

The main character is 13-year-old Ezrick Eden Leary III. Here's an illustration of him I drew:

Prince Ezrick Eden Leary III

About him:

Ezrick is a frustrated prince. He loves school but was recently expelled, and can’t seem to stay out of trouble. Like riding his horse through the castle halls, being friends with the servant girl, and/or hatching Spungeon-Uglies in the dungeon.

(Spungeon-Uglies are small dragons which possess special talents.

They're also illegal)

His cold stepmother and unloving father make castle life miserable, and after an especially humiliating incident, Ezrick flees. But being a royal runaway is not the adventure he expected. It's a dark and gripping journey full of secrets of his past.

His troubles are just beginning.

Ezrick's horse, Argo

Ezrick's Spungeon-Ugly, Jules

[the dragon picture is from Windstone Editions. I changed the coloring to make her look like Jules!]

And here are pictures of NORWIN, the setting of Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse.

I’ll post more about the book soon, including advance reviews, a book trailer, cover reveal, and excerpts.

I’m looking for more readers and bloggers to review the book, too, so please leave a comment or email if you're interested. Thanks!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! (^_^)/

House of Diamonds

2011-11-07T20:17:00.000-08:00

Hi all!

Celebrations are in order, for today marks the release of House of Diamonds by Karen Jones Gowen!

I am so honored to kick off the Diamonds Blog Tour. Karen is a gifted writer whose words evoke true warmth, feeling, and sincerity. House of Diamonds is a great and powerful achievement and I hope you enjoy it as I did. Huge congratulations on the book’s publication, Karen. Cheers to you, and thanks for a wonderful read.

Summary:

“In this sequel to Gowen’s debut novel, Uncut Diamonds, she follows sisters Cindy and Marcie as they reach a crossroads in their lives. House of Diamonds tells the story of two women, one facing opportunity the other tragedy. Can their bond endure?

Marcie pursues her dream of becoming a published writer while Cindy faces a terrible tragedy. In this gripping story of faith, loss and the transcending nature of sacrifice, Gowen gives voice to a beloved baby who has none. She shows the incredible power that comes to families when they pull together to overcome challenges. It is at these times that a house of pain can become a house of diamonds.”

About Karen:

Born and raised in central Illinois, the daughter of a Methodist minister from Indiana and a school teacher from Nebraska, Karen has down-to-earth Midwestern roots.

She attended Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, then transferred to the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. After converting to Mormonism at the age of 20, she transferred to Brigham Young University in Provo, UT, where she met her future husband. She obtained her degree at BYU in English and American Literature.

Karen and Bruce have lived in Utah, Illinois, California and Washington, currently residing near Salt Lake City. They are the parents of ten children. Not surprisingly, family relationships are a recurring theme in Karen's writing.

My House of Diamonds review:

HOUSE OF DIAMONDS, by Karen Jones Gowen, is the story of Marcie (mother of 7) and her sister Cindy (mother of 2) and how their lives change and grow together through family, loss, and faith. Gowen has crafted a poignant, moving, and honest novel, weaving themes of family, identity, life's blessings and trials, change, financial hardship, and tests of faith.

The heart of HOUSE OF DIAMONDS lies in a devastating revelation: something is wrong with baby Jordan, Cindy's infant son—his head is too big for his body, his eyes are clouded, and he isn't developing properly. The story unfolds around doctor visits and how Cindy and Marcie cope with learning the truth of his condition, and the journey of his treatments. In the background America is recovering from inflation, as people suffer through job strikes, food stamps, and trying to make ends meet.

The questions, conflicts, and internal dilemmas Gowen raises are hard-hitting; no character is spared from the ups and downs of life. It is an honest portrayal of so many emotions: fear, longing, grief, guilt, family, motherhood, faith, love, courage, pain, devotion, life’s tests, misfortune, being there for one another, remembering our blessings, the incredible love between a mother and her children, and the powerful bond between sisters. Her characters are strong women who struggle with doubt in how they're raising their families but always keep faith at the heart of their lives.

Gowen writes with a forward, clean, well-thought writing style. I admire her unsentimental writing. There are powerful themes of wanting to stay true to your identity amid the chaos and attention a large family demands, as well as being part of a religious community. But also the guilt that goes along with this want, and yet: family can’t be an excuse to lose yourself. The book is also a study of interesting family dynamics. I love the glimpses into Marcie’s family scenes—especially the ordeal of getting everyone to do their chores (love the Job Chart LOL).

In addition to being a mother, Marcie is a writer with publication dreams who copes with the joy and frustration this dream brings. She joins a monthly writers support group, an interesting cast of characters who put Marcie through some unexpected challenges that test her own character. This writing theme becomes a form of escapism and expression, providing a welcome respite to the heartrending storyline of baby Jordan.

I also appreciate how Gowen's characters don't take themselves too seriously, and they had some unexpected pasts—like Karl, Cindy's husband, for example. Never saw that coming, but it added incredible depth to the characters' psychology. Every character truly comes from a different place with their own unique struggles and triumphs. I especially loved Linda, Cindy and Marcie’s sister—I do wish we got to see more of her. She was fun!

To end, HOUSE OF DIAMONDS is a moving read, emotionally and spiritually rich, with a dazzling finish. 5 Stars!

To Purchase House of Diamonds:

-For the Kindle
-For the Nook
-To preorder print copy from publisher's website and get free copy of Uncut Diamonds-- buy 1 get 1 free through the holidays!

Visit Karen's website.
Visit her blog: Coming Down the Mountain: A Writer's Blog.

Norwin

2011-10-31T21:17:00.000-07:00

Norwin is the medieval world of my Middle Grade fantasy, which I'm releasing on Kindle later this year!

In light of this, I thought I'd introduce you to the landscape and say that Norwin is a land of kingdoms, villages, and bright ocean cities, sunny meadows, dark mountains, and moonlit lakes.

Also, there are glints of magic and a fantastic creature or two.

I'll write more about the book in time, but for now some pictures of Norwinian scenery.

Welcome!

And Happy Halloween! :D

(all pictures from Google images)

The Adventurers: Troll Creek

2011-10-21T14:07:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to share a fantastic new book with you by my dear writer-friend, Mackenzie Reide!

The Adventurers: Troll Creek is the first in her Middle Grade series about three kids forced together by their parents’ marriage, and the dangerous mystery they become tangled in after some local exploring. It’s an excellent, fast-paced read every kid will love.

Mackenzie and I first met at the New Jersey Renaissance Faire a few years ago (Huzzah!!) and we’ve been cheering each other on along our writing journeys, literally across the country, ever since. When Troll Creek finally released, I couldn’t wait to interview her for the blog.

M's gorgeous author photo

Jordan: Mackenzie, can you tell us about yourself?

Mackenzie: I am a bit of an electic mix. I'm an engineer, outdoor enthusiast and a writer.

J: I love being outside and appreciate that the outdoors are such an element of this book. It’s a refreshing change from the current trends. What is Troll Creek about?

M: It's an adventure story set in an old abandoned mine. The main character, Dana, meets her soon-to-be stepsiblings for the first time which does not go well, and sets off a chain reaction that leads to finding a 100 year old mystery, armed theives, and the value of friendship.

(Troll Creek book trailer)

J: How long did Troll Creek take to write?

M: The idea for the first book started back when I was 8 years old. I was reading everything in sight, but getting frustrated with the lack of strong female characters. So I started writing my own stories in my head. This led to the story that I have now and all the modern complications that kids face. These are all the questions I faced while growing up. So you might say it's been an ongoing process for a long time. The actual rough draft took 3 months to write when I sat down and organized all those ideas I've played while writing as a kid.

J: Wow, 8?! How fulfilling, so many years later, to have a finished book! Who is your target reader?

M: It's geared toward 8 to 12 year old readers. It's a middle grade adventure. Like the Nancy Drew/Hardy Boys or Choose Your Own Adventure books. If you loved the movie The Goonies you'll have fun with this.

J: Cool. How are you getting word out about Troll Creek?

M: Just learning that whole part of the process. Utilizing facebook, twitter, and book clubs. Got a website and a book trailer. Still lots to learn. Word of mouth will be the best way to get the word out. The biggest compliment of all is when a reader recommends the book to a friend.

J: What are your plans for the series?

M: There are five books in the series.

J: Are you working on anything now?

M: Writing book 2. It's a rough draft at the moment.

J: When does it come out?

M: Next spring!

J: Awesome, can't wait! Can you tell us about your writing process?

M: I write in scenes. Not linearly. I wrote the middle of the book first, then wrote the ending, and finally wrote the beginning. I like to jump right into a story. I have written segments of the other books that way. Sometimes a scene just comes to mind and I realize that's what I will be writing today. I can't write anything else until that scene is out of my head. Eventually it all gets linked together.

J: How long have you been writing?

M: I've been writing since I was a kid. My very first book was an illustrated picture book on dinosaurs in grade one. Won first prize for that. Still have it. Then I progressed to fiction and never looked back.

J: Congrats on first prize - dinosaurs rule! Why do you write?

M: Writing is something that comes naturally to me. I've been making up stories since I was a kid. I'm always asking the 'what if' question and my mind works out many scenerios to figure things out. Eventually these thoughts form a story.

J: What about writing do you enjoy most?

M: What I enjoy most about writing is going into my imagination and seeing what possibilities it leads to.

J: Favorite books and authors?

M: Growing up, I loved the British author Enid Blyton. She wrote hundreds of books but my favorites were an adventure series called The Famous Five and another called The Island of Adventure. I also read all the Nancy Drew and Hardy Boy books, Choose Your Own Adventure, The Rescuers, and any other books I could get my hands on.

M's awesome rock climbing pic

J: I think Troll Creek is a perfect addition to the adventure genre. Lastly, can you offer any advice for aspiring authors? And what advice helped you the most?

M: Question everything. Learn as much about the business as you can and then pick your battles. The best advice I got along the way was to keep on keeping on.

J: Wise words. Mackenzie, thanks so much for doing the interview and telling us about your book and writing process. So happy the book is finally out!

You can visit Mackenzie’s website HERE

Troll Creek: available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

2. Library

2011-10-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

Back to the 100 Possessions Challenge!

Books. I love them very much.

I love reading them.
I attempt to write them.
I own a great many of them.

Naturally I feared for their lives when I took up the Challenge, as I have *hundreds* and you are only allowed 100 possessions total :s

But then... a bright idea!

If Kindle can store thousands of books, and New Yorkers can squish into subway cars, and ALL the stars can fit in one sky, there must be a way. And like magic my books joined forces to become a LIBRARY.

My goal is for the books to fit in one book case, doubled-up, which will take some sorting - but for now problem solved, disaster averted, all books saved. Phew! Sneaky, but that is my way :p

What are your favorite possessions?
Anyone else up for the Challenge?

Speak of the Devil -- I mean, Kindle.

2011-09-28T14:34:00.000-07:00

So days after my last post Amazon revealed four new eReaders. They're much sleeker, one is in color, and they've gone down in price.

...

*SO TEMPTED* >.<

Kindle & eBooks ... 0.o !?

2011-09-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

Hi, these are fun numbers!

- 1 in 6 American's owns an eReader (that's 15% of the country). Another 15% plan to buy one in the next six months.

- Ebooks now make up 13.6% of US market.

- Amazon sells more eBooks than printed books (that's hardcover and paperback COMBINED). This happened long ago, in May (?!)

- Ebook sales rose 167% in June 2011; print sales continue to decline.

- Kindle Library Lending Goes Live (think Kindle + 11,000 US libraries)

- "57% of nine-to-17-year-olds said they were interested in reading an e-book, and a third said they would read more books for fun if they had access to digital titles on electronic devices. At the time of the survey, only 6% of parents owned an e-reader and 16% planned to buy one in the next year. More than eight in 10 parents said they do or would encourage their kids to use their e-reading device."

***

I knew eBooks were taking off, but whoa... this is sick. As in, I don't know whether I find this wrong or rad. I had no idea.

I don't have a Kindle (yet), but everyone I talk to LOVES theirs. Do you or your friends have one?

What are your thoughts on the future of publishing?

This happened so fast :s

Jordan

2011-09-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

Woo! On to J :D

I am especially fond of J. It begins some of my most favorite words in language, like:

- Jelly Bean
- Jack o' Lantern
- Jack (Pumpkinhead)
- Jack (Skellington, Pumpkin King)
- Jabberwocky
- Jackal
- Jack rabbit
- Jaunt
- Japan
- Jazz
- Jest
- Jewels
- Joyful
- Jubilant
- Journey
- Joust
- J'en sais pas
- Je t'aime
- Jane Eyre
- Jo March
- Jurassic Park

Also - as much as I’d love to be a Most Noble Rainbow Knight, Charmalot is not in fact my name, ALAS!

It's Jordan :)

Illustrator: Trina Schart Hyman

2011-09-18T21:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new Illustrious Illustrator series!

I’m enjoying the Alpha-Blog so much, I think I may stick to it. Henceforth, "I" entries will focus on my favorite illustrators, their artwork, and interesting facts about them.

I am most inspired visually: a single picture can hatch a novel. Photographs, artwork... they are scenes just waiting to happen.

Writing + Visual Aids = Good Fun

One of my favorite illustrators is Trina Schart Hyman (1939 - 2004). She illustrated over 150 books, won three Caldecott Honors and one Caldecott Medal. Her favorite story was Little Red Riding Hood, and she spent an entire year of her childhood wearing a red cape. (Wikipedia)

I find her art incredibly rich and fierce, and rather dark; her people are interesting, the scenes wild and brooding. Her illustrations also possess a rustic, old world quality. The style is altogether striking and distinct.

(self-portrait)

"Hello, hello, hello, hairy hobbit feet"

2011-09-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

Characters should be one-of-a-kind and COLORFUL. Rich details make a character DELICIOUS!

Memorable characters pitch tents in our minds and live there. Forever. They are vivid, alive, iconic, real, and everyone knows them. They're impossible to forget.

Fantastic characters are summoned instantaneously, and possess unmistakable features and characteristics. You could identify them in a line-up at once. Details about them spring effortlessly to mind. I picture the following so quickly:

- Count Olaf, his cunning “Hello, hello, hello,” and those shiny, shiny eyes.
- The Queen of Hearts roaring “OFF WITH HER HEAD!”
- Gollum hissing “My Preciousssss...”
- Hairy hobbit feet
- Harry’s glasses and lightning bolt scar
- Dorothy and the ruby slippers
- Can you imagine the Wicked Witch of the West without her pointy hat and GREEN skin? Her glorious melting to death? X___x

Paint your characters. Give them lines and moments and scenes that sear our memory. Make your characters utterly distinctive, in appearance, speech pattern, and mannerism. A few choice details will make them unforgettable and iconic.

Your readers will thank you for it.
At least, I will :)

Are your characters memorable?
Who are your favorite characters of all time?

good vs. GREAT

2011-09-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

It's the difference between "ice cream" and Haagen-Dazs.

Between someone else's cooking, and our mom's :)

It's the movie of a book, vs. the actual book. The movie was good, but the book is better. The book touched greatness.

Only, how to reach greatness? Could the answer lie in cookies? What determines a good cookie vs. a GREAT one?

- Quality of Ingredients
- The Recipe
- The Baker

GREAT cookies satiate the universal appetite - an inner hunger and need. GREAT cookies have Substance. They contain the richest, purest ingredients (think Butter, Vanilla, gourmet Chocolate).

After tasting a GREAT cookie, good cookies taste... insubstantial.

A GREAT cookie is the best, truest version of itself. It is a cookie, yet MORE than a cookie; it's ordinary AND Extraordinary. GREAT transcends, GREAT goes beyond. GREAT tastes good because it is the essence of good.

Can we reach greatness on our own? Is greatness in the tasting? Or is something else at work in that hot oven, doing more than baking dough into cookies?

Does any of this apply to our writing?
What do you think is an example of greatness?

Is anyone else hungry?

The Fanfare Fellowship!

2011-09-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

- Have good news to share about your book?
- Need a Critique Partner or Beta Readers?
- Want your book reviewed?
- Want to share your art?

Well then, let's make some Fanfare!

Which is why I've formed a Fellowship.

The Fanfare Fellowship is a community of writers, bloggers, readers, reviewers, and artists who can count on one another to post good news and announcements about our work on their blogs, to help promote our work when the need arises.

Here are some other possibilities of how the Fellowship can help us:

• Writer interviews, spotlights, Q & A's
• Finding Critique Partners and Beta Readers
• Guest posts and hosting fellow Bloggers
• Holding Workshops, Contests, and Challenges
• Generating Buzz and Publicity
• Posting Announcements (Good News! Book Deals! Publication!)
• Creating Blog Tours
• Showcasing Book Artists

(if you have ideas to add, let me know!)

We all have different friends and followers. If you have news, a whole Fellowship of us will help spread word fast!

So let's blow the trumpets, wave the banners, and herald the news!
Let's help each other, together!

To join The Fanfare Fellowship:

1. Please copy and paste this post and Coat-of-Arms to your own blog, linking back to my blog: http://andthenmyheartsmiled.blogspot.com/

2. Email me [ charmalot at live dot com ] or leave a comment with your email and blog address and I'll add you to our directory. Let me know all that apply to you:

- Writer
- Reviewer
- Blogger
- Beta Reader
- Critique Partner
- Artist
- Other:________

3. Post the Coat-of-Arms on your blog's sidebar to signify you're a Fellow.

Thank you! I hope you join The Fanfare Fellowship.

Everyone is welcome!

Enterlightenment

2011-09-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Fantastic word, ‘enterlightenment!’

I made it up just now to explain my writing intents--which are to hopefully enlighten and entertain.

I think we’re here to enlighten each other. Life is a great multi-faceted gemstone and we are all a face. We live together on this world, earth. But we also live in our own worlds, the world within our head, experiencing life in times, emotions, and angles unique to everyone else. It’s why siblings remember childhoods differently from one another.

“And that is what happened. She never really loved me.”

“What? What planet are you on? She loved you the best!” >.<

We’re here to enlighten each other, because you know things I don’t, and I know things you don’t, and my 7-year-old cousin knows things we both don’t. That’s why only YOU can write the story inside you. That's why we share stories.

So I invite you to see the world through my character’s eyes. I want to make you feel. I want to give you new, real experiences, and ones you’ve had before, but through the context of my character. Because that’s when we (reader + writer) connect. Even though you and I never met, we’ll have met through my book (or your book). It happens in those swooping moments when you pause reading a passage and think: “I know that feeling. I've felt the same way. Hang on. You just made me feel. That’s you, in me. Or me, in you. Or something. Cool...”

I hope to entertain, too, which makes all our lives easier. And I want to transport you. Transport you to a world, outside yours but inside mine. Then transfigure you into a mood-ring, all for our enterlightenment.

It's 'transfigurenterlightenment.'

What’s your intent when writing?
What do you want to give your reader?

Discipline + Dreams = MAGIC

2011-09-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is, therefore, not an act, but a habit.” -Aristotle

Discipline: it may sound strict, but we need it to achieve our dreams.

Without discipline, our dreams stay trapped in stone; the diligent chisel frees them, chip-chip-chipping until the vision of our mind takes form in reality.

But that word: discipline. They make it sound so painful. And no wonder—it means punishment! o_0

But... what if discipline were called something else?

What if we switched discipline with ‘happy time.’ Or: ‘deliberate delight.’ Or: ‘a pleasurable way to your dreams.’

What if discipline was FUN?

Writing books can be a long, lonely journey. We live inside our heads alot. We play with imaginary friends (until you publish your book, and they become other people’s imaginary friends, too). Which is wonderful. And miraculous.

It is the whole magic of books.

So I think, whatever your dream, whatever your journey, make it fun. Have critique partners! Throw writing parties! Write in your favorite café, at the park, in the sun, in a tent, on a mountain, in lavish hotels. Why not? Write with colored pencils, to your favorite music, grooving in your chair. Laugh at that excellent bit of dialogue you just wrote. Eat a bowl of ice cream, type those keys, be happy! Because you’re still being “disciplined,” and your achieving your dream.

We would not have dreams if we weren’t meant to achieve them. And if you mean to, why not make the journey as deliberately delightful as you can.

Now: go forth and make your dreams come true :)

When the going gets tough, how do you sprinkle your journey with fun?

Countdown!

2011-09-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

Anticipation!

The bubbly feeling that grows inside of you, getting bigger and BIGGER as something draws near. The feeling that makes us look like this cat. Anticipation is magic; it creates wonder and hope.

Having something to look forward to is invigorating. In the most critical sense it can keep you alive.

I remember dying for the Harry Potter books to come out. Over and over, that ritual, for YEARS. Then finally holding the BOOK, the last book. As a reader I’d never felt more alive.

Now that the last HP movie is come and gone, here are some other things I’m looking forward to.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone (by Laini Taylor) (I’ve already read this but MUST have the real book, it is ASTONISHING!! Out September 27!)

The Bippolo Seed (Dr. Seuss, also out in September. which I just realized we are already in)

Out of Oz (by Gregory Maguire. November)

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo movie (December)

Pottermore! (October)

My own announcement! (date unknown!)

And I await tomorrow, for who knows what it brings.

What’s on your countdown?

1. BIKE

2011-09-02T18:58:00.001-07:00

Heard of the 100 Possessions Challenge?

I discovered it through Miss Minimalist (author of The Joy of Less).

I haven’t read the book, but here are some gems from the Table of Contents:

• Less stuff = more freedom
• Become detached from your stuff
• Be a good gatekeeper
• Enjoy without owning
• The joy of enough
• Live simply, so that others may simply live
• Trash, Treasure or Transfer
• Reason for each item
• If one comes in, one goes out
• Narrow it down

The challenge is simple: dwindle your belongings to 100 things, donate/sell the rest. I'm gonna try.

This will be, er... a process. I have over 100 possessions in books alone :s

In all fairness, books are the bulk of my possessions. The total furniture I own amounts to a bookshelf and desk.

In any case, I’ll be doing my own “version” of the challenge. At least at first, just to winnow stuff down. But it would really be something to achieve that magic 100.

So, first possession is: my BIKE (in MY version of this challenge, that includes my tire pump, helmet, and locks (x2), because they are kind of one entity… right?)

Anyone else doing the challenge? The more the merrier! (company. not stuff)

ABITO

2011-09-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

I’m an enthusiast of alternative energy and the tiny house movement, and about to make a huge commitment to the minimalist lifestyle.

My belief is the beauty of living small (after helping our world) frees us to experience BIG.

It must be my love for the double-entendre, writing so efficient it goes beyond itself, expressing many things at once. But I love design that captures this same efficiency. It's like a cosmic egg, or Horton's speck of dust: a word can contain the world.

It's like ABITO! I came across this UK company in my research of small space design. They are creators of “intelligent living spaces,” a 353 sq. ft. apartment.

Could you do it?

Alpha-Blog

2011-09-01T15:25:00.000-07:00

I missed out on the A-Z Blog Challenge that happened earlier this year, but I love the concept (started by Tossing It Out) and need the pressure to post more regularly, so I'm doing my own September version.

The Literary Linebacker

2011-08-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

Contrary to my lacking blog presence, I’m still here!

I've been in the D.E.E.P ("Difficult and Excruciating Editing Phase"). But it has been awhile, so I thought it healthy to resurface.

(I should add that I’ll be making a special announcement very soon. Please stay tuned!)

On to the point of my post!

Are you an athletic author? A "Literary Linebacker," so to speak?

(my dad played professional football, hence the pun)

What I mean is: do you do writing exercises?

Lately I find myself doing what can only be described as writing exercises. Not from any book. They’re mostly ones I've made up, but I find it kind of like going exploring in your head. I can poke and prod my story and simply play around with words, no pressure. I don’t know... It's strange but fun, and I think it's helping me become more comfortable creatively.

Do you have a writing ritual? Are there things you must know before you start a book? Do you write in the linear, chronological order? Or can you start in the middle and even write the last chapter first? I NEVER used to be able to do this. It was wrong. Akin to eating dessert for breakfast, or wearing your underwear over your pants. But my writing process has since evolved incredibly. Where it used to be all neat and tidy, scene by scene, 1+1=2. Well, now it's very... RanNDoM scEne! MESS! do you have ANY idea what you're doing!?? this is going to take forever to organize!!!!! WTF!??!

At the same time it’s like, really freeing.

So... a list of questions, for anyone wishing to share:

Do you like writing exercises?
Do you find them helpful or a waste of time?
How have you become a stronger writer?

Do you hold much stock in writing exercises, prompts, character charts, outlines, etc?
What are your favorite techniques? Do you have your own writing methods?
How are you best inspired?

Have any trusty writing maxims?
Do you read books on the craft? What are your favorites?
Any purists who say hang this theory nonsense. The only way to write is to write >.<

Does anyone else even think about these things?

I always thought writing exerices were very boring and lame. But now… I don’t know, I’m less concerned with the end result and more intrigued by the journey, I suppose. It is NOT the most productive method. 90% of what results you probably won't even use. I can't even explain it, so I’m sorry if none of this even makes sense. I’m simply awestruck by this thing that is creativity. Creation. What it does to you, how it works through you... kind of like love.

Has anyone read No Plot? No Problem? OOH, I LOVE THIS BOOK!! I’ve read it more than once and recommend it highly. If you are like me, a severely-structured perfectionist never pleased by a thing you write, or if you're not like me, the cool, laid-back, completely-not-intimidating, FUN attitude of this book is serious super-cool fun. I mean, besides writing, it even addresses the finer points of Magical Tools and the Growing Stockpile of Delicious Incentives!! (*ahem* mine are strawberries and dark chocolate chips. Yours?). I have attempted NANO and have yet to succeed, but regardless this book is good.

So, what kind of writer are you? Despite the genes I don't know a thing about football, so I'm definitely less the Literary Linebacker and more the, er, Strolling Storyteller. In a rose garden. With lots of birds and fountains. And a picnic basket of sandwiches.

How is everyone's summer??

All comments welcome!

We Be Stylin'

2011-06-22T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

I want to give a sincere thanks to April at From These Hollows for honoring me with the Stylish Blogger Award. I am incredibly honored and appreciate the award so, so much!

The Rules:

1. Thank and link back to the person giving you the award. (A thousand thanks, April!)
2. Share 7 Things About Yourself.
3. Award 10-15 Blogs Who You Think Deserve This Award.
4. Contact these bloggers and let them know about the award.

7 things about me:

1. I don’t own a T.V.
2. I love French press coffee in the morning
3. Walking is my favorite exercise
4. My cell phone is purple
5. My favorite season is Fall
6. I love magnetic Poetry
7. I collect bookmarks

My 15 Stylish Blogs I pass on this Award:

1. http://novicewriterchronicles.blogspot.com/
2. http://thewarriormuse.blogspot.com/
3. http://flettleglag.blogspot.com/
4. http://bardsandprophets.blogspot.com/
5. http://littleredhenry.blogspot.com/
6. http://writingsavedmylife.blogspot.com/
7. http://noveliststhoughts.blogspot.com/
8. http://lollipopscottage.blogspot.com/
9. http://juleswrites.blogspot.com/
10. http://kpolark.blogspot.com/
11. http://matthewlikeswriting.blogspot.com/
12. http://www.truthfulmothering.com/
13. http://wordsbystelladeleuze.blogspot.com/
14. http://adayintothewriter.blogspot.com/
15. http://clancytales.blogspot.com/

Please visit them and say hello! Thanks again, April!

* cupcakes *

The Enchanted Book Tower of Charmalot

2011-06-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

I’ve always considered myself a serious reader. I mean, I turn to books for everything! Pleasure, research, curiosness, boredom, travel, study, adventure, escape, inspiration, loneliness, guidance, comfort, solace, beauty, happiness.

Just simply... the magic of books is miraculous.

Lately I’ve been trying to read more. The stack of my to-reads is a death wish :s

(Actually it’s more of a tower. That is enchanted. But anyway!)

As serious a reader as I am though, I read at the speed of a snail.

So my goal is one book a week now; heftier tomes are allowed two (though they usually end up dragging across a whole month > . < Case in point: Watership Down - though 'twas a frithing good book)

I am always curious as to how fast other people can read.

- How many books do you read a month?

- Do you read more than one at a time? (I’m juggling three at present: Graceling, Second Sight, and Wuthering Heights - this one is taking months :s

- Do you read or avoid books when writing?

- What are you reading now?

Ooh, anyone interested in starting a bookclub with me??

Happy weekend, everyone!

A Jolly Traipse Through the You-niverse

2011-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened since my last post: I left my bookkeeping job!

So begins a new chapter in my life. Having time off is glorious. I feel new, curious, overwhelmed, and inspired. I’m brimming with peace. Peace and energy. I feel like an explorer in a world of my own making—a world I forgot about and have since lost the map. But now I am here again, and though it’s a bit wild and overgrown, it is wondrous! The farther in I traipse through this jungle I realize I recognize parts of it; there are caves and pools and waterfalls, valleys, flower gardens, and beaches. all so very lush, green and vibrant, humming with birds and wildlife! Being in this place, this world, this you-niverse, is fun! It's surprising, wildly invigorating and amazing. There are places I’ve never been—yet unchartered, yet untouched—places yet to be created.

It’s all very exotic, with much to be explored! I’m excited!

Also, my life is changing. I’m changing. Shifting towards simplicity. I’ve been taking stock of all my “things,” my belongings (books, clothes, knick knacks, etc). I may be moving within the year. I want to be organized.

All this to say, I feel myself reinventing myself. I wanted this post to begin a new series on my blog about self-exploration and life design. There will be fun challenges and projects, maps of making and discovery, adventures of the soul, of leisure and of learning. I’m re-evaluating my Pie of Life. I’m shedding a skin; an inner self is coming out. It’s weird, but that’s what’s happening.

Two books that are helping me in my self’s spring cleaning are 1,001 Ways to Relax and Design Your Self. Reading them is like rearranging furniture in your mind. It's cool!

Are any of you in a time of personal growth and change? What helps you become who you are?

Meanwhile: I still continue to write the mystery. It is a challenge, but I’ve broke 20k words!

Reward Bunnies

2011-05-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

For weeks, months, YEARS we toil on our books. So I think having a reward for yourself at the end is totally motivating! To go along with the wonder and fulfillment of finishing a project. A reward is like icing on a cake. Or, at least, a nibble of the cake if there are more project phases to go (i.e. editing, revisions, etc).

Writing a book... creating worlds and stories... There is *so much* thinking-plotting-brain storming involved. And so often I feel I have nothing to show for it :(

So treating oneself with something immediate or tangible, like an experience, trophy, or reward, seems a good way to acknowledge the incredible work you know you’ve accomplished. Other writers will understand this hidden work involved, but really, only you know the inner struggles and triumphs of your own book. Only you know the actual and real cost it took to create it. I think it's important to acknowledge this by merits of a Reward.

I called this post Reward Bunnies, because I love Easter Bunnies, and wouldn’t it be cool to have a Bunny that left little rewards for you when you’ve accomplished something :)

I think my Reward for finishing Draft One of the mystery will be a *Kindle*

I'm so excited!!

They are pricey, but I would use it all the time and this would be a highly motivating Reward for me.

Here are some fun Rewards I thought of that might motivate you to finish your project.

• writers conference
• writing workshop
• creative class
• writers membership
• books
• necklace / bracelet / ring (a token to remind you "YOU DID IT!" :)
• an actual trophy
• take a holiday, mini vacation, weekend getaway, or day trip
• a Kindle
• new clothes or shoes; a shopping spree (for author appearances :)
• writer magazine subscription
• mani/pedi, spa day
• go see an Exhibit
• treat yourself to a fancy dinner or dessert
• throw a Party !

What is your Reward Bunny? Do you set mini-rewards, or one big huge one?

Entering Blog*Land

2011-04-19T15:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all my new followers! I’m looking forward to getting to know you and what projects you’re working on :)

Really, this Writer blogging community is so vast and inspiring! Though I have to admit, not a little daunting. I want badly to be a part of it—as a reader and contributor. I also struggle to work on the Mystery, and the thought of balancing it all just makes me dizzy.

How does everyone do it?

Lately I’ve been keeping an open Word file of blog entries and ideas I’d like to explore. Then I can write in pieces until I’m ready to post it. I wish I could just write a post from start to finish in one sitting. But I can hardly watch a movie in one go, so writing in spurts is perfect for my restlessness.

Also, do you allot a certain amount of time for reading and blogging, so it doesn’t cut into WIP time?

I’m just always so curious how other people work.

Since we’re on the subject, another curiosity of mine is: what keeps you reading a blog?

I thought, and realized I like a mingle of things:

- Hearing updates and progress on someone’s WIP
- Teasers about the story and characters
- maps, charts, pictures, drawings (visual aids in general—good)
- the odd book review
- writing tips, thoughts on craft, technique, outlines, story diagrams (also good)
- Contests, games, polls—good and fun :)
- Food

(I don’t know. I just like an occasional post about food)

I also like it when a writer posts regularly. Yes, yes, life happens. But I really miss hearing from them if it’s been a while (usually this happens when something terribly exciting has been going on with one of their projects and they're forbidden to reveal it to anyone if they want to live so the absence is totally worth it. But still.)

I especially like it when the writer is for the most part positive, and connects with his or her readers.

Anyway, I hope this blog to be a mix of those things.

How about you? What do enjoy from a blog? Here are some of my favorites:

I LOVE Laini Taylor. She is a creative genius! That, or she is hiding a creative genie somewhere. Which, if you've read any of her stories, could be true.

Victoria Schwab has incredible insight; I gain so much when she shares about her writing process.

I’ve only just discovered Silver Lining by Julie Dao. She is I think, the sweetest blogger in Blog*Land.

Which blogs are your favorites—the ones you check every day?

(p.s. this post has nothing to do with PB & Js, but the image came up when I googled “Blog Land.” And it’s adorable)

HappyHappyJoyJoy!

2011-04-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

Wow!!

What a surprise!!!!

Jennifer at Serendipity’s Library honored me with The Versatile Blogger Award! :D Thank you, thank you, Jennifer! My heart is *beaming!* You absolutely made my day and I am deeply touched!

And with this marvelous reward comes these rules which I follow with pleasure:

1. Thank the person who gave you the reward (Thank you! Merci! Domo arigato! Jennifer!)

2. Reveal 7 things about myself:

1. I was a French exchange student my junior year of high school. Quelle aventure!

2. I am first-generation (my mother was born in the country shaped like a boot: Italy!)

3. My favorite ice cream flavor ever is Chocolate Chip Mint

4. I love chopsticks and eat with them every day

5. My favorite sanrio character is U*sa*ha*na (super adorable! ♥)

6. I won a trip to the Caribbean with a writing contest about my love for sailing—and still have yet to set foot on a sailboat....

7. I once got to ride in an elevator with my hero, Arthur Levine

8. I love my family more than anything in the world!!! (^_^)/

(sorry, had to add that)

3. Pass on this reward to 15 fun bloggers I’ve recently discovered:

1. http://anitalaydonmiller.blogspot.com/

2. http://frankiediane.blogspot.com/

3. http://thewritertorium.blogspot.com/

4. http://kelseysutton.blogspot.com/

5. http://kikihamilton.blogspot.com/

6. http://caroleannecarr.blogspot.com/

7. http://antigonewritingandrants.blogspot.com/

8. http://sylmion.blogspot.com/

9. http://rebeccadupree.blogspot.com/

10. http://wantonredheadwriting.blogspot.com/

11. http://lovelylilbookworm.blogspot.com/

12. http://childrenspublishing.blogspot.com/

13. http://www.acoverlover.com/

14. http://andreahevern.blogspot.com/

15. http://suzyturner.blogspot.com/

Please visit them and say hello! Thank you again, Jennifer!

*Now for cupcakes*

Um, you left out the plot

2011-04-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

Wow, that fizzled quickly! Despite my eager willingness, around word 2k of writing the Mystery I had the rude awakening that maybe I'd bitten off more than I could chew. In my discouragement I didn't write a word yesterday. Writing is hard :( Clearly my enthusiasm for this craft can be likened to a hungry person with eyes too big for their stomach :s After some brainglittersnowstorming (a dazzling Laini Taylor word-creation for you :) I now have a crime though, which before was lacking. You must be thinking, "how obvious," but what with creating setting, dialogue, clues, and the Vespa, you're lucky I have characters. Anyway, a crime, like plot, does wonders for your book. I'm pleased to say haven't thrown in the towel yet and wrote 500+ words today. Also: some Mystery writing advice I found in my googling panic: 1. What is the crime? 2. Make a list of clues to use in the story 3. Who are the suspects? 4. What are their motives? 5. Know how the story ends before you begin to write it. Thank you, Joan Lowery Nixon!

(p.s. not sure why my paragraph breaks aren't showing up. Sorry for the huge block of text! >.<)

Woot! :D

2011-04-05T14:28:00.000-07:00

It's official. I have a follower! Thanks Rebecca! (inspires me to skip off and follow five more people - pay it forward :)) Now... pressure to make interesting posts. I'll say a word on my WIP: 'tis a mystery! I don't know much else--it's a mystery--but there will be clues and evidence and supsects and a Vespa and a bed and breakfast! Of that I say no more, but all goes well. I hope you're writing, too.

Midnight message

2011-04-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

It's the middle of the night for me (I get up at 5 for work) and I can't sleep for excitement. I am so excited. A magic feeling of creation is rushing through me and it's keeping me up. Something amazing is going to happen. I don't know when, but I'm right. It's all going to happen. I know it. In my mind, I know it and believe it. I will write 500 words a day (this is huge for me. I am the slowest most self-concious writer I know. Not any more. I will write that many words a day, and I will get faster and stronger and better. I will get more comfortable. My writing will improve. It will be clear. I will be a writer. I AM a writer. I will write another book. I will write many. I can do it. I will do it. I will have readers. I will create good work, I will create worlds and give people escape. I will give back to literature. I will give it all back and more because I love it so much, so much it is killing me. I will be a part of it all. I want that, I want to be on the inside, I want to make things happen, I want to share what I've learned. I have things to say that are worth saying and it's important that I say them. It is essential that I try) I will write a book by October 19. I will create my destiny. I'm creating it right now. So are you. When you feel excited, act. That's the moment the world moves for you. That's when anything is possible.

A step in the right direction

2011-04-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

Today I started a new project. (Amanda Hocking is entirely to thank for this, for reasons personal and unrevealed. I'll write more when I'm not about to fall asleep and can give the proper thanks she's due. But for now, Amanda: thank you!)

544 / 70000 (0.78%)

Thought Library

2011-04-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

I pondered, and I think this blog will be a colorful, airy, sparkly Thought Library where I can take my ideas of the shelf, sit in a poofy window cushion overlooking the garden, and fiddle around with with them like a rubix cube. Then put them away when I'm ready, and tidily move on to the next one whenever I want.

I think that's a fun and comfy place. There are going to be treats: candy and ice cream, lots of empty notebooks and cute mechanical pencils to write stories; any book you want is there, in case you feel like reading.

I shall have parties, too. In the library. So you're all invited. Fun, creative, inspiring, positive, motivating parties (because I'm wishfully hoping someone might be reading this).

A beginning

2011-04-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

I am lost.

My life has turned out nothing like I expected, and these days I feel I completely lack direction. I want to have a blog, but I never know what to write about. I want to be a writer but I don't have a story to tell. (Actually, deep down I KNOW I have a story to tell, I just can't quite grasp it. The characters in my head won't leave me alone or go away. And they keep changing, to0. So frustrating! I spend all my time perfecting their flaws, and then something happens, or I'll convince myself the plot doesn't make sense, and have to start all over again, back to square one, over and over. It's like walking an hour in the dark toward someplace you visited a loooong time ago and are trying to recall from memory, then realize you're going in the wrong direction. Lost, see?

Anway, this blog is a beginning. Of what, I don't know. I'm just putting it out their, God. Because I'm on your path, but don't know where it leads.

One thing I know: I need confidence. I have too much fear. One of them is that everyone in the world knows a secret I don't. Another is that I will only be okay at something; maybe good, but not great. Which makes me feel completely sad, lonely, and useless. I'm going to write my fears here, where I can see them in the light and see that they aren't so scary after all.

Well. That's the plan, anyway.

What are some of your fears?

Charmalot Chronicles

Manga Muse: EYES

[Melody/Monday: Trance - Take My Hand]

Pinterest Invite, Pretty Please?

Illustrious Illustrator: Emma Florence Harrison

Illustrious Illustrator: Warwick Goble

[Melody/Monday: Shiny Toy Guns - Rainy Monday]

Ezrick meets Karou *is starstruck*

[Melody/Monday: Mika - We Are Young & Elle Me Dit]

Royal Announcement! It's Prince Ezrick Day!

Illustrious Illustrator: Walter Crane

Royal Reveal: Prince Ezrick Cover

Vote for Charmalot Chronicles! ( ^-^)/

[Melody/Monday: deadmau5 - Strobe]

[Melody/Monday: B.o.B - Magic (AHS Lip Dub)]

Illustrious Illustrator: Kay Rasmus Nielsen

Top Writing Blog Award Nominee!

Prince Ezrick: Soundtrack

Prince Ezrick: Royal Reviews

[Melody/Monday: Breathe Carolina - Blackout]

Happy New Year!!! ( ^-^)/

Disney + Annie Leibovitz = Vanity Fairy Tale

The Hobbit: Old and New Again

Manga Muse!!! ( ^-^)/

Prince Ezrick: First Three Chapters!

Book Trailer - Prince Ezrick and the Morpheäs Curse

Illustrator: Mercer Mayer

Royal Announcement: The Title!

House of Diamonds

Norwin

The Adventurers: Troll Creek

2. Library

Speak of the Devil -- I mean, Kindle.

Kindle & eBooks ... 0.o !?

Jordan

Illustrator: Trina Schart Hyman

"Hello, hello, hello, hairy hobbit feet"

good vs. GREAT

The Fanfare Fellowship!

Enterlightenment

Discipline + Dreams = MAGIC

Countdown!

1. BIKE

ABITO

Alpha-Blog

The Literary Linebacker

We Be Stylin'

The Enchanted Book Tower of Charmalot

A Jolly Traipse Through the You-niverse

Reward Bunnies

Entering Blog*Land

HappyHappyJoyJoy!

Um, you left out the plot

Woot! :D

Midnight message

A step in the right direction

Thought Library

A beginning

Ezrick meets Karou is starstruck