Q: How do you know if your story should rhyme? J: Try it. If it turns out bad, silly, or ugly, or if you have only a limited ability with good, interesting– even startling–rhymes, do not try it. And always…ALWAYS…get someone else to read it aloud to you, and you will know in a moment whether it …
Q: If you weren’t a writer, what would you want to be? J: A ballerina, (I studied at Balanchine’s School of American ballet (from ages 7-14) but they have the half-life of a writer. And if you dance in toe shoes, your toes bleed. A teacher (but then I already teach writing and have taught …
Q: What do you think is the best line you’ve ever written? J: “Under a shining Owl Moon.” Follow up Q: How did that line happen? And, why do you think it works so well? J: I can’t remember any big struggle with that last line. My big struggle in the book–a 20 year struggle by …
Q: What is the best piece of advice anyone else ever gave you? How did it help you? J: My agent Marilyn Marlow told me: “if she turns it down, we’ll send it elsewhere…” Also when I asked her if I should write some of the books under a pseudonym,” and she said….”Too late!” …
Q: How do you feel about reviews? J: DEPENDS ON THE REVIEWS!!!! One is always looking for a “money review,” ie. one the publisher can use to help sell the book. But even bad or slightly “meh” reviews often have a quotable liner or two. As an ex-reviewer myself, I understand that a review can …
Q: How do you know if your story should rhyme? J: Try it. If it turns out bad, silly, or ugly, or if you have only a limited ability with good, interesting– even startling–rhymes, do not try it. And always…ALWAYS…get someone else to read it aloud to you, and you will know in a moment whether it …