Few things are sadder for writers and readers than empty bookshelves, especially bookshelves that used to be packed full. This week I was looking for the new picture book biography on Fibonacci-- Blockhead: The Life of Fibonacci, written by Joseph D'Agnese and illustrated by John O'Brien (Henry Holt, 2010). I knew just … [Read more...] about A Good Place… Gone
News
Speaking About Voice, Writing Voice
What are these dogs doing on a blog about writing and chiru and endangered species? All will be revealed. And it's all related to writing and chiru. Today's writers of non-fiction use many of the tools of fiction to make their stories compelling and accessible to readers. One of the strongest tools we have is voice. … [Read more...] about Speaking About Voice, Writing Voice
Turtles and Chiru – and Stories of Hope
Our environment is under stress from so many sides it can be discouraging for students to think about. What can individuals do about global warming? Endangered species? Water shortages? Oil spills? Some may say just give up and go to the mall. Yet, we all need to think about these environmental problems and what hard … [Read more...] about Turtles and Chiru – and Stories of Hope
Chiru Links
Oh, frabjous day! I've seen an advance copy of The Chiru of High Tibet (due out in October) and I'm so excited I want to fill a wagon with copies and carry them to my favorite libraries, to my friends' favorite libraries, to libraries I don't even know. I hope The Chiru of High Tibet will spark an interest in readers … [Read more...] about Chiru Links
Reflection on the Hamline MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults
Ten days of intense focus on writing and story leave all of us who attend the Hamline MFA in writing for children and young adults residency with much to think about. Recently, I have been remembering the wonderful presentation by Lauren Stringer (on the left in the photo) and Wendy Orr. They told us the stories behind … [Read more...] about Reflection on the Hamline MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults
Choosing the Details
When Phyllis Root and I were working on our presentation for the Hamline University MFA residency earlier this month I realized how much I love old cookbooks, the ones that have little stories or recollections to go with the recipes. Now comes a book, a history, based on the eating habits of people who lived in New … [Read more...] about Choosing the Details
