Transitions

Transitions don’t just lead into the next thing; they make an impact. My mom spent the last several months in the hospital—not improving—not able to care for herself at home anymore. I went to the hospital to see her before Christmas. I brought her a red Poinsettia—her favorite color to brighten her gloomy room. But …

Character History: Research and Organizational Tips

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A writer discovers characters by inspiration or by accident. Their stories are so incredible or inspirational they must be shared. The blessing of imagination allows characters to share their personal histories with the writer who becomes the ghostwriter. As a writer of historical fiction, my research requires discovering descriptions, timelines, and eye-witness accounts of real-life …

My Group Therapy

Joining a critique group brings an end to the arrogant delusion of, "I have written a great story." In fact, I'm discovering some hard, and down right scary, things about myself. Scary fact one: My main character lacks emotional responses to events and family members. Should I be in intense therapy? Why is this so …