I'm still in the process of finding a critique group through SCBWI. So far only two responded to the email and they're out of town. Must keep inquiring.
A very good writing friend is assisting with the fine-tuning, and over-all critiquing of ABEGALE FORCE number 1. Super YEAH!
I've put WIP #2 on hold after handwriting over one hundred pages, until ABEGALE #1 is finished, as I'm not sure if I'll need to adjust the story from any changes within the first story. Trying to be cautious--not exactly my forte.
Monday came and I needed something to write. I've had a singular scene in my head for several months; two brothers, in the woods, trying to survive; in a sense, a love story for my two boys, eleven and thirteen.
My boys are wild, adventurous, creative, and Reluctant Readers. But I know what they like to read. I hope I can nab that.
Both are Big Fans of Gary Paulsen. My older son says, “Gary Paulsen doesn’t talk down to you in his writing.” Hmm. He was reading SOLDER’S HEART for school, about a young boy of fifteen enlisting in the Civil WAR.
We all became huge fans after reading HATCHET, about a thirteen-year-old who goes down in an airplane, and has to survive in the woods, with only his hatchet. Of course, it is a three-time Newbery Honor Winner. Get it if you haven’t read it yet.
Where was I? Yes, Monday came and I needed to write--something. After having that original scene and holding it to my heart for months, I finally wrote, on and on. I got over fifteen pages into that composition book. I was excited to show my eleven-year-old when he got home.
He loved it and wanted to read more. Of course now, he’s my taskmaster, demanding I write even more. Last night he asked if I had anything new to read to him. Ah. No.
I’m giving an hour toward this progress today. It’s about all I can afford. But I’m getting excited.
I think the flavor and the characters are already getting under my skin.
It started bleak, and sad, in a way. It was that kind of day.
I felt very much in the mix of the universe, and in sync. And now I must go and write.
I have my orders.
Haha. A task master. That's great!
ReplyDeleteOh, it is a wonderful thing when the characters resonate with you so much.
ReplyDeleteWhat a good idea - a story for your boys. It sounds like something I would like to read, too! A survival story about two kids that takes place in the woods sounds very interesting.
Ha. Kelley. He is always a task-master.
ReplyDeleteYes, Sara i enjoyed writing that story for about a week. Now I have to stop and research for that one. In the meantime, WIP # 1 is returning with some "homework", as in revision decisions.
Looking forward to it actually- again,
and putting pieces of the puzzle together.
Hey there,
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let you know, I tagged you on my blog :D
Hope you're doing well,
Ninja Girl
Gary Paulsen doesn't talk down to you in person, either. He gave a keynote at SCBWI-LA last year, and the man's life is incredible. Just incredible. He is so honest and that comes through in his writing. Honesty and grit.
ReplyDeleteHave a good writing day!
Martina