On our recent trip to Guanajauto, Mexico, I learned about the incredible power of Don Quixote, a novel by Miguel de Cervantes. It soothed one man so much that he…
The Incredible Power of Don Quixote
Goodbye to an Encyclopedia
After the book launch of my latest novel, Sunflowers Under Fire, I said goodbye to an encyclopedia. It wasn’t easy, saying goodbye to an old friend. The Encyclopedia Brittanica had…
Soft Launch of Sunflowers Under Fire
I never planned a soft launch for my latest novel, Sunflowers Under Fire, a historical fiction. But my newest baby, which I’ve nurtured for so long, is now out in…
Amazon’s Surprise Discount
This morning I checked the book categories of The Rubber Fence on Amazon and discovered that Amazon had given my novel a surprise discount. It was listed as $14.95 but…
Mystical Surprises on the Writing Road
Have you ever been surprised by some wonderful phrase or sentence that you’ve written on your writing road? Have you ever wondered how it ended up on the page? Organicity…
Truth in Political Art & Fiction
With so many attacks on the news media today, political art and fiction can do what news can’t. Both can turn news on its head, shake up disbelievers, and open…
An Author Finds Inspiration in a Door
An author looks for inspiration everywhere. I found it in a door. Alexander Graham Bell said, ” When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so…
The Hunt for the Right Book Cover
So much rides on the right book cover. Most of us have heard the expression: You can’t judge a book by it’s cover. True enough, but if it’s appealing you’ll…
Writing Thoughts and Plans for 2019
Before I get into my writing thoughts and plans for 2019, I wish you, my readers and fellow writers, a wonderful year. I hope you and your families are blessed…
A Long Lens at Ukrainian Christmas
I’ve always loved this time of year, a time to celebrate and once more, revel in the traditions of “English” and “Ukrainian” Christmas. Even though my faith has been challenged,…