Lisa Rondinelli Albert

Got Vibes? Send Good Ones!

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 22:26:12 GMT

Isn't it a great feeling when after all the ups and downs of revisions, you send your manuscript off to your agent and get to lounge in the yard ALL DAY? Ahhhh.

Yes! I sent Mercy Lily to wonderful agent on Friday...both an electronic version and a hard copy (2 day mail :). So today, my three sisters came over and I put out a nice spread of lunch and we hung out by the pool and deck. It was so nice to have a whole day just to play.

I'm excited to hear from wonderful agent next week (she's fast!), Send good vibes that it's ready to make the rounds. I think it is, and hope she agrees. Her notes really did make this a stronger book. I'm stoked!

Squeeee!

I'm off to Nashville on Friday for a mini weekend writer's camp with my BFF, Candie Moonshower. We'll be writing and critting by day and a-honky-tonkin' by night. Squeee again!

Off to lounge and read. Ahhhh.

Soul Enchilada ARC Contest

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:52:17 GMT

David Macinnis Gill, aka thunderchikinis having a Candy Heart contest to give away ARCs of his book, Soul Enchilada.

First, here's my Candy Heart entry.

Here's his post describing the rules:

I got the idea for this from something one of the characters in Soul Enchilada (SoulEnchilada.com) reads off of a warped fortune cookie: "If you love something, set it free before you have to pay child support."

Here's the candy heart I created with the phrase:

Now, let's see what you can create!

To enter:

1. Create your own candy heart at http://www.cryptogram.com/hearts/ . Your heart can say anything you'd like. You are not limited to phrases from the ARC (since you haven't read it).

2. Copy and paste this entire post--as well as the image of your candy heart--on your blog, Facebook, MySpace, website, etc.

3. Once you’ve completed #3, email me at davidmacinnisgill AT gmail.com with the link to your post. Voila! You're entered in the giveaway.

4. The contest will be judged by three teen readers based on the criteria of originality, design, and message. The contest closes July 31st.

5. The prize is a personalized, signed ARC and a special gift, TDB by the judges. The winner will be contacted via email. Her/his name and winning entry candy heart will be posted on my lj blog, as well as my home site DavidMacinnisGill.com.

Good Luck!

Revision Updates - Fun News - Wacky News

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:24:26 GMT

I am making great progress on my revision of my YA, Mercy Lily. Using Darcy Pattison’s Shrunken Manuscript trick has been extremely helpful. Check out her site http://darcypattison.com/ It’s the first time I’ve done this and highly recommend it! It also helps that I’ve been away from the story for some time. I’m seeing it differently, both physically and mentally. I’m enjoying the round of revision and hope it’ll be good to go once wise agent sees it again. Here’s a pic of my work station at my kitchen table. Some of the flowers are left over from a bouquet my kids gave me, but the day lilies are from my garden. If you look behind the table, you'll see Pepper at the door.

Other fun news: Since I’m not going to SCBWI LA Nationals this year, my crit partner and BFF have decided to have a mini writer’s camp. I’m flying to Nashville for a few days where Candie Moonshower c_moonshower and I will have a whole lotta laughter and a whole lotta fun! We’ll write independently in the mornings, critique one another’s work poolside in the afternoon, and then she’s going to show me the town in the evenings. Look out Nashville! Since my airfare was dirt cheap, we’re splurging and getting a suite so we can work comfortably and have plenty of places to set our drinks. Any writer friends in Nashville who want to meet us for inspiration beverages, give me a jingle!

Candie and I met when we were paired up to share a room at the LA Conference in 2003 after we were each awarded scholarship to attend the big event. We returned every year since then and have plans on make it next year. I’ll miss being there, but if you see my head floating around, here’s why.... tamarak . That Tammi Sauer is a hoot! We’re LA pals, too! Here's Tammi, Candie and me at the Wine & Cheese event last year.

Happy writing!

Stevie Wonder concert - Author sighting - Making a living

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 19:04:09 GMT

I went to the Stevie Wonder concert at Summerfest last night and am moving a little s l o w today. Wow. The show was AMAZING. Fricking amazing. I danced and sang and had several cold ones since it was 90 degrees. I was sweaty and my feet hurt and I loved every minute of it. Yes, I was bustin’ a move and had my groove on. (On a side note, I saw a familiar face walk by me. I kept thinking, I know that guy from somewhere. But, by the time I realized who he was, he was long gone. I swear it was Walter Dean Myers.) I’m such a fangirl. I swear it was him!

Stevie Wonder is simply perfection. He was made to be on stage, making a living doing what he does best and loving it. He did every song I wished for except for Reggae Woman. So, I must listen to that now and float in the pool. Ahhh. It’s the last day of vacation with the family and I plan on kicking back.

Hubby has a semi-pro fishing tournament on Sunday and I’m excited for him. If he could make a living at hunting/fishing, he’d do it in a heartbeat. Last night, we ran into a friend we hadn’t seen in 20 years. He bounded toward my hubby and yelled, “Bass Pro!” as if it’s really his name. It was funny but also made me realize what a rep he’s built for himself. Good luck, Bass Pro!

Sweet A bought herself a very nice and snazzy laptop that is loaded with high tech stuff. We’ll be buying her a Wacom tablet to go with it. Can’t wait to see what she produces. She is such a talented artist. If any artists have hints to pass along on using the tablet and Photoshop, let me know. She could totally make a living at this.

Dear J is addicted to Frolfing. Frisbee + golfing = Frolfing. He’s been going every single day and shoots under par now. He works and frolfs, frolfs and works. Making a living at frolfing? If anyone could do it, Dear J could. If the Physical Therapist thing doesn't work out, that is.

As for me making a living, next week it is BIC and getting YA back to agent. After that, dig back in to my MG and try to reach my completion goal. Life is good!

Wordle Tease & Revision Update

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:46:23 GMT

I've been off from my school job for a week and spent it catching up on household paperwork, bills, cleaning my office (yay!) and....gearing up to finish revisions of Mercy Lily, my YA novel. My goal to get it back to wise agent was the end of the month. I say WAS because my scheduled family vacation is next week, so, ya, that was a dumb goal. July 9th seems to be a good goal date.

Wise agent and I had had a nice phone confab in mid January and I was all set to buckle down, but personal issues became front and center so I set everything aside. I've been revising and making notes off and on since March. I've done lots of reading over the past few months, too.

I set it all aside again while I dealt with other teen issues and my job cut/new assignment. (I'm so done for the year now - right?!) *That that doesn't kill us will only make us stronger.* :-)

And now...with my days open, busy teens, and a healthy hubby, I am on the last stretch of this revision round. I just printed out a fresh copy and used Darcy Pattison's shrunken manuscript trick. Single space the entire manuscript and reduce to 10pt, or even smaller if you can read it. Doing this took my 170 page manuscript and cut it to 68 pages. Doing this allows me to move through the hard with ease. I also use colored post it notes to track threads and characters. For this manuscript, I'm trying to track emotion, too.

I'm excited about getting this book back to wise agent over at Andrea Brown Literary Agency. It'd be great to have it get "out there" before summer is over. Plus, I can spend the rest of summer finishing my MG novel that's getting lots of good feedback. :-)

thunderchikin had this over on his site. Fun! I played with it over coffee this morning and here's the result for Mercy Lily. Give a minute to load and then make one for your book.

I think this is so cool! Does this pique your curiosity about my book? Any guesses as to what it's about?

TGIF Five and more....

Fri, 23 May 2008 15:27:19 GMT

I’m cheating and combining a Friday Five with a Meme since jillsbookstagged me days ago.

My last TGIF 5 was all work so this week, I thought it’d be fun to get a little personal.

I’m a major bird lover and sometimes lose chunks of time by staring out the window, watching the birds at the feeders. I’m so fortunate to live in a place where birds are numerous. I grew up in the city and as a child, sparrows and robins were the norm with an occasional glimpse of a blue jay or cardinal. When we moved here 11 years ago – my then 6 year old son spotted our first Ruby Throated Hummingbird. It wasn’t long before I had several bird books, field guides, binoculars and feeders. Just today, I’ve seen orioles, cardinals, goldfinch, chickadees and hummingbirds. This is all from my office window! Our yard attracts cedar wax-wings, bluebirds, blue jays, red-tailed hawks and great blue herons. Every spring, sandhill cranes, whooping cranes and swans congregate high above our house before heading north. I always hear them before I notice them flocking.

For Mother’s Day, my son bought me a gorgeous bird feeder made of crackled glass and copper. It’s my favorite feeder ever. But what really makes me happy is how this 6’3”, cool dude now checks to make sure it’s luring in birds.

For years now, in lieu of a gift, I’ve asked for an entire day to spend filling photo albums with years and years worth of photos. For Mother’s Day, my daughter presented me with an album she’d put together for me. When I opened the cover and saw their little toddler faces looking back at me, I bawled. The four of us spent an hour huddled on the sofa—laughing, remembering and enjoying our times together.

I am REALLY looking forward to being a library tech at the middle school next year! These last two weeks in my office position feels a little bittersweet, but I’m still counting down the days. 13!!

I won’t be going to LA this year and have come to terms with it. LOL I don’t want to miss out on the yearly writer’s camp, but it is what it is. If you’re going, send me vibes while you’re at workshops, the awards luncheon, having patio talks and drinks with friends. Most of all, be sure to do the Elaine Dance for me and get your groove on at the gala!

Now for the Meme..........

What were you doing 10 years ago?
Being Mom to 5 & 6 year olds and loving it. Dealing antiques. Writing and freelancing. Sold my 1^st article in 1998.

What are 5 things you need to do today?
1) Buy my dog a birthday present. 2) Go to the post office. 3) Finish up an outline that’s been fun to research, but time consuming. 4) Pay bills. 5) Order mulch for a weekend of yard work.

What are some snacks you enjoy?
Wasabi almonds – bananas – sunflower seeds in the shell – any chocolate

What would you do if you were a billionaire?
Create a foundation to award college funds to deserving students regardless of their financial status, race, sex, religion, and athletic ability. After that, I’d take hubby traveling.

What are 3 bad habits?
Procrastinating – running late – hitting the snooze button ( is this a pattern? LOL)

Name 5 places you have lived.

Milwaukee – Wauwatosa – Muskego (all in Wisconisn)

What are 5 jobs you've had?
Telemarketer – clothing store clerk – dental assistant (3 days!) – antiques dealer – school aide

Who do you want to tag?

Anyone who wants to play!

Happy Memorial Day, everyone!

xo Lisa

TGIF FIVE!

Fri, 16 May 2008 15:47:44 GMT

Man, where does the friggin' time go? Here's my first evah Friday Five....

1) I am so counting down the days left of school! 18 days left to go after today. My office job at the middle school was CUT and it's been quite a year but, all is good. I was repositioned and my new job will be in the middle school library. I feel bad that the district has to make cuts, but am very happy to be a Library Tech now! Squee!!

2) I'm working on an outline on a collective biography of Hip-Hop Artists. It's due soon! Almost done. :-)

3) My lovely agent and I have been discussing projects. She'll be proposing my services to write a biography for a series I admire. I feel so fortunate to have her in my corner! In a few weeks, it'll be a year since I signed with the agency. That calls for chocolate!

4) My dining room is covered with stacks of manuscript pages. I've been procrastinating again. What's up with that? Fear of success? Fear of rejection? I need someone to kick my a$$ and remind me that I have several editors who have asked to see this novel. I'm shooting to have it back to wise agent by the end of June. Then, hopefully, it will get out there.

5) I'm 50 pages into a new middle grade novel. Is it totally obnoxious to say that I LOVE this book? Both of my crit groups love it. readerteen loves it. Agent gave it a thumbs-up, too. No wonder I'm procrastinating on YA revisions.

This was fun! I like the Friday Five. Drinks and sushi tonight. See you on the patio?
xo L~

Google Alerts sent me a nice surprise!

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:35:07 GMT

BookPushinCats and the TriState Review posted a very good review of one of my books back on March 29th. I got the Google Alert about it yesterday. Hope you don't mind a little BSP. :-)

Albert, Lisa Rondinelli. Lois Lowry: The Giver of Stories and Memories.
Enslow, 2007. $31.93 128p 978-0-7660-2722-0

This book allows the reader an insight into a popular author. Lois Lowry has written many books, including two Newbery winners. Her most popular, The Giver and Number of the Stars, are covered in this book. Lisa Rondinelli Albert has created an easy to read book for young readers that will inform the readers about the life and books of Lois Lowry. The factual details are interestingly presented as well as informative and educational. The inclusion of several lists, where to obtain more information and a glossary/index make this a useful research tool. The inclusion of web sites for youngsters is also important in school classrooms today. The flow and balance of both the text and full color visuals are integrated to present a very stimulating book for both young and reluctant readers.
(cut)
This is a very well written book that will relate well to many young readers. It is recommended as a basic book for any middle or junior high school library. LM

http://tristatereviews.blogspot.com/2008/03/lois-lowry-giver-of-stories-and.html

Thank you, TriState Review!

Did you miss me? Track this & Vibes

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 16:38:37 GMT

Well, it seems LJ took it upon itself to uncheck my requested email alerts for most of my LJ friends. How rude! :-) I don't know how it happened but I'm glad I realized the issue wasn't that my friends were quiet (as I'd thought). I use the Track function to get notified when my friends post a new message and somehow, all of my selections were unchecked. I think it happened at least a week ago, so if I missed any news, please tell me! I bet you all missed my comments, didn't ya?

I've been working on an outline for a new NF project (due May 1st), preparing to do another outline (due August), and just send an interview request in for yet another NF book. This interview, should it be granted, will be amazing...so send vibes! Big, honkin' Lisa-needs-you kind of vibes.

It's good to be back in the loop! I've missed you all!!!

xo Lisa

Nonfiction Winners - Covers - SCBWI LA and Me...

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:46:24 GMT

In my last Nonfiction Monday post, I listed books by authors and publishers of NF who I admire. There are lots of nonfiction books out there that make me go, “Wow, I wish I would’ve written that book.” It’s so nice to see those books and authors get the recognition they deserve!

When Ann Bausum’s, Muckrakers: How Ida Tarbell, Upton Sinclair, and Lincoln Steffens Helped Expose Scandal, Inspire Reform, and Invent Investigative Journalism won the SCBWI Golden Kite Award for Nonfiction, I cheered! This is the 4^th award Ann has received for this book. Way to go, Ann! www.annbausum.com

I had the pleasure of attending an SCBWI-Wisconsin Luncheon this weekend and the group cheered for Ann as she passed around her book adorned with four medals. Afterward, several of us talked about going to the SCBWI National Conference in August to cheer her on while she accepts her award in that beautiful ballroom.

I said I wouldn’t go to LA this year for budgetary and other reasons but now, I really want to go again. So...let me do a LA Roll Call...who’s going this year?

-----Also, go check the NF Monday post by

laurasalas

Laura Salas blogs about my first nonfiction book, LOIS LOWRY: THE GIVER OF STORIES AND MEMORIES. Laura compliments my writing and work. She also points out that the cover of a book should sometimes be overlooked. This made me think about American Idol and how the judges sometimes make comments about what a singer may wear or how they appear on stage. Ryan Seacrest will usually chime in and say, “It’s a singing contest...it’s about their voice, not their outfit.” I’m glad Laura was channeling Ryan Seacrest this morning. I'm glad she found my biography of Lois Lowry, enlightening and entertaining.

(not sure why my fonts are wonky...please ignore LJ's issue this morning.)

My First Nonfiction Monday Post

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:57:47 GMT

It’s my very first Nonfiction Monday post!

I’ve been doing some research on authors, publishers and editors who’ve produced books I admire. I love to research even when that includes researching markets for my work.

A Web site that I find very useful in determining where my nonfiction may fit in is Renaissance Learning

http://www.renlearn.com/store/quiz_home.asp?c=MA+22%3A21%3A11+8002%2F13%2F3

Here, I was able to find out the word counts on several of my favorite biographies. If you’re looking to learn from the pros, these titles should be in your collection to read, study, and read again.

RESTLESS SPIRIT: The Life and Work of Dorothea Lange by Elizabeth Partridge (Penguin Putnam) 20,000 words.

ELEANOR ROOSEVELT: A Life of Discovery by Russell Freedman (Clarion/Houghton Mifflin) 32,000 words

Up Close: ROBERT F. KENNEDY by Marc Aronson (Viking) 35,000 words

Up Close: ELVIS PRESLEY by Wilborn Hampton (Viking) 32,000 words (side note – my daughter reviewed this book for FACES May issue. ; )

Up Close: ELLA FITZGERALD by Tanya Lee Stone (Viking) 30,000 words

Doing this sort of research allows me to hone in on publishing houses that may be a good match for my projects and determine if I’m on target with my projected word count.

It’s also a great place to go to see if the market is overflowing with a particular topic or not. In my recent visit there, I’ve discovered that the THREE subjects who I plan on writing about are practically nonexistent on this site, and generally underserved in the market overall. Knowing my ideas haven’t been overdone really gives me a boost and gets me excited to research further and start outlining.

Happy NF Monday!
Lisa~

VOTE FOR CARRIE

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:27:37 GMT

Because I said so and...

because...

Good luck, Carrie!!

Lisa + Stevie Wonder = OMG!

Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:26:38 GMT

I just scored tickets to go to the Stevie Wonder concert on June 26th at Summerfest in Milwaukee!! I am a HUGE fan. 2 years ago, the only item on my Christmas list was Stevie Wonder CD's. (side note: My hubby also bought me a real tambourine...LOL. Let's just say I had way too much fun with a tambourine at a certain Christmas party and he felt I deserved my very own.)

I bought four great seats even though I can't afford them. But this is STEVIE WONDER!! And, it'll be my b-day present. :-)

Anyone planning on coming to the Milwaukee area for Summerfest? If you haven't heard of it, go to www.summerfest.com and check it out. The line up this year is amazing.

So, hubby, teens and I had all decided on the week we'd take to go away and get out of town for vacation. Hubby set it in stone at work. Last week, the Stevie tour announced they'd be HERE! During my week of vacation. It didn't take much pleading since we didn't actually have plans yet, but my family agreed to only go away for half the week so that I could go see Stevie Wonder. I'll be counting the days!!!

"Do Yourself a Favor...... " http://steviewonder.com/ If there is one bio I'd love to write, it'd be Stevie Wonder's. Oh yeah.

For more reasons than one, my favorite Stevie song is "I WIsh." :-)

I feel lucky today!

New Web Site

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 23:45:42 GMT

I've spent the past few days revamping and building my new Web page and so glad it's done (for now!). Check it out and let me know what you think. www.lisaalbert.com

I used GoDaddy, and while I like it and it's easy to use, there's not too many bells and whistles. I look forward to the day when I can have a super cool site that someone else builds for me!

Now, to use the rest of my spring break to finish my revision! (waves to Wise Agent ; ) he he!

xo Lisa

So You Want to Take a Peek at BOOK TWO of my career

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 23:59:24 GMT

I was in the middle of sending a query out this morning when my doorbell rang. I ran from my office and through the house when I spotted The Man in Brown shuffling down my driveway through 6 inches of fresh powder. (man, we're getting pounded this year!!)

So, I scooped my box out of the snow drift and here's what was inside:

No, that's not me on the cover, Dahlink! It's my second book with Enslow Publisher's and my first book in their Careers in Film and Television series. It'll be officially released May 1st. Yay! I totally love the look and feel of the hardcover. Enslow did a fantastic job matching photos with my text!! Here's a sneak peek of a spread in the section where I profiled Leonardo DiCaprio. Lucky me!

I'm so excited it's here!! It's got me hankering to do another NF book or two or three.
xo L~

My First Ever THANKFUL THURSDAY

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 18:01:16 GMT

It's my first Thankful Thursday post ever! Wheeee!

First, I'm thankful I have such a wonderful, smart and friendly agent. Our phone confab on Tuesday went great. We tossed around ideas and brainstormed a bit about my current YA revisions and I came away feeling inspired and confident. I'm stoked!

I'm thankful for good friends like

lisa_schroeder who offered to give my YA a read and lifted my spirits with compliments!

I'm thankful that my fantabulous online crit group has scheduled next week for a Writing Challenge and I'll be able to focus on my MG WIP and be closer to the end.

I'm thankful that the week is almost over and that I have two big things plans for the weekend: Cleaning my office and THE PACKER GAME!!! It's going to be 9 degrees in Green Bay! Ouch!

I'm thankful that my husband understands my crush on Brett Favre. LOL

Go Pack!!

I HEART YOU, YOU HAUNT ME -- Teen Reader gives two thumbs up!

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 04:03:28 GMT

Today I had the pleasure of picking up my order of Lisa Schroeder's novel, I HEART YOU, YOU HAUNT ME.
It was so fun to go to the bookstore with a dozen bookmarks that Lisa so generously sent to me and set a few next to her books, faced out on the new arrivals wall.

When I went to the desk to get my order, I chatted with the clerks and gave them bookmarks, too. I told them my friend wrote this and suggested they order more. I love doing that! :)

So, I got home and handed the book to my daughter who had her very own bookmark signed to her. She disappeared while I started supper. 20 minutes later, I called her in to set the table. Her nose was GLUED to the book and she sat at the counter reading. I set the table, I poured the milks, I got the salt and pepper. Here's what she did.

Okay, how cool is it that she just happened to be wearing a shirt with hearts all over it? Never mind the ripped knee. Ha.

After dinner, I cleaned up and she went to finish the book. She came out and was shaking her head. "I loved it and cried at the end," she said. "Wow. It's amazing."

I've bragged about my Teen Reader before but in case you're tuning in late, she's read and critted for several of my published friends and has reviewed for Cobblestone Publishing. She's working on a paying crit job now. This girl knows a good read!

Lisa Schroeder, lisa_schroeder you're going to have many teen readers in your future and I'm so happy mine was one of the first! She plans on sending you a note tomorrow. :) I'm one lucky writer friend and mom!

Order this book, people!

xo L~

Revision Club, WIP and Funkytown

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:55:19 GMT

Happy New Year, LJ friends!

I’m so ready to buckle again down after having several weeks of minimal productivity. I fell into a bit of a funk for a few weeks because I threw out my back – BAD – and my mushy muscle relaxer induced brain couldn’t string a sentence together.

Right after my back decided that Christmas shopping, decorating a 10ft tree, cleaning, shoveling, shoveling and more shoveling was all it could take, I received revision notes from my Wise Agent.

I’ve now joined the January Revision Club over at jbknowles .This will be my second round with my agent and I want to get it right, get it done and get it out there this time.

I’m also pecking away on my new MG WIP. I love it. It’s so fun. I forced myself to write a chapter because it was my turn in my online crit group. I’m so grateful for that turn! I think I’d still be in a funk today had I not made myself write and find my MoJo again. Whew!

It’s good to be out of the funk. Funk sucks. Unless, of course, it’s Funk music, then by all means, bring it on. (We want the funk. Gotta have some funk. Yeow) LOL Have any of you even been in a funk (I want you to take me to Funkytown)? If so, what helped you to get out of it? - I’ve totally dated myself with those old lyrics but those of you who know them are grooving, I know it! J

And guess what people? lisa_schroeder 's book, I HEART YOU, YOU HAUNT ME comes out tomorrow! Yay!

It’s going to be a great year. I can FEEL it.

XO L~

Lisa Schroeder's Christmas Give-a-way!!

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 14:27:04 GMT

Lisa Schroeder is so kind and generous, it doesn't surprise me that she's giving away books for her 12 BOOKS OF CHRISTMAS give-a-way. These are the books that you have a chance to win:

Mon., Dec. 10th - HARD LOVE, by Ellen Wittlinger
Tues., Dec. 11th - CRANK, by Ellen Hopkins
Wed., Dec. 12th - STARGIRL, by Jerry Spinelli
Thurs., Dec. 13th - STORY OF A GIRL, by Sara Zarr (National Book Award nominee)
Fri., Dec. 14th - LOOKING FOR ALASKA, by John Green (Printz Award winner)
Sat., Dec. 15th - TWILIGHT, by Stephenie Meyer
Sun., Dec. 16th - 30 GUYS IN 30 DAYS, by Micol Ostow
Mon., Dec. 17th - TRIPPING TO SOMEWHERE, by Kristopher Reisz
Tues., Dec. 18th - THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIAN, by Sherman Alexie (National Book Award winner!)
Wed., Dec. 19th - DRAMA! THE FOUR DOROTHYS, by Paul Ruditis
Thurs., Dec. 20th - STUCK IN THE 70's, by D.L. Garfinkle
Fri., Dec. 21st - I HEART YOU, YOU HAUNT ME, by Lisa Schroeder

Go to lisa_schroederfor more info and good luck!

[Bad username: �]

Happy Friday!

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 15:51:51 GMT

I've had a productive week revising my YA novel. With a little rearranging of scenes and a small addition of a scene, I do think the opening is stronger.

On the WIP front, I added critiques from my online group to a binder so I can revise as soon as I'm ready. I did a teeny bit of polishing before I sent off the first four chapters to my agent. (although I noticed later that the word 'hair' had been mysteriously been deleted from page one. Doh!) This WIP, which I'll call DREAM from here on out, is just itching to get out and I'm excited about it.

My agent sent word that several editors have requested one of my picture books. Cross your fingers for me!! :)

I'm reading A Crooked Kind of Perfect by lurban(Lind Urban) and really enjoying it. I highly recommend it!

Word is spreading that my daughter is a teen reader and she received an out-of-the-blue email today asking for her services again. This'll be the 2nd client this month for her! She critted/read for fantasy novelist, Debbie Jacobs a couple of weeks ago and Debbie said she'll acknowledge her in the book when it sells. How cool is that for a 15 yo girl!! Over Christmas break, we're going to set up a (freebie) Website for her and she's going to go pro. :) --- I hope she doesn't start charging ME! --- She's read for several published and yet-to-be published authors. Plus, she's a book reviewer for Cobblestone Publishing's FACES magazine. I'm so proud of my kids!

Off to revise and write bills.... XO Lisa

Up for air and THIRTEEN REASONS WHY

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 02:28:59 GMT

I’m happy to report that I’m making very good progress on my YA revisions. I didn’t think it would be as difficult as it’s been to actually do these revisions but I realized that I was having a hard time letting go of my beginning. I’d already reworked other sections and then today, finally, I dug in and revised my opening. Again. I had tried twice before and ended up ditching those reworked beginnings. This time it feels right to me. I tend to set a mood in my openings and then set down the hammer.

Between spurts of revising, I’ve been fleshing out a new middle grade novel. I’ve got four chapters down and I am loving writing this. It’s hard to stop, but because it's been a (fun!) distraction from revising the YA, I am forcing myself to. I want to get the YA to my agent within a couple of weeks. (don’t laugh! LOL) – Keep in mind I have two teens, a job and am in two critique groups. J

Along with YA revising and fleshing out the MG, I’ve also allowed myself reading time. Over the past few evenings, I read the suspenseful and emotional THIRTEEN REASONS WHY by Jay Asher. I finished it this morning and came away with such a range of emotion from the story. I’m still digesting it and coming to terms with my thoughts. It is thought provoking and intense but at the same time, it’s tender and genuine.

There were moments when I became angry at Hannah, yet I felt for her. Hurt for her. And the same for Clay. I found myself actually talking to/yelling at the book – as though I was watching a movie – and wanted to warn these characters, guide them, stop them, help them. I’ve never had this reaction to a book before. Ever.

At one point, I had to put it down to regroup because it was hard for me to take it all in during one sitting. Its raw emotion and heartfelt narration struck a deep, personal cord with me and all I can say right now is...thank you, Jay Asher.

THIRTEEN REASONS WHY gave me some long overdue tears and a new outlook on a tragic event and loss. I will try to be aware of signs of suicide and I will reach out to the Hannah’s and Skye’s around me. In memory of my brother, and to honor his life, I will try to make a difference in someone else’s.

SCBWI Wisconsin Retreat

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 15:53:30 GMT

Last weekend, I attended the SCBWI Wisconsin retreat in Madison and it was one of the best ever. It’s taken me a few days to regroup and settle back in but I came home pumped.

I was one of the presenters this year – my first time! – and it went really, really well. I gave my workshop titled: Six Tips for Writing Nonfiction: From Idea to Finished Product. I worked the microphone, showed 14 transparencies ans talked about my process, writing queries, proposals, finding markets, research, organizing material, the actual writing, revision, etc.

I had been super nervous for a week prior but once I got up there, I was cool, calm and collected. It was fun and I’m looking forward to presenting again. If you’d like to come speak to your chapter, send me an email at writes4kids@wi.rr.com Here I am celebrating the success of my first gig as an author.

I was reunited with my friend, amazing person and Newbery author,

cynthialordCindy’s talk had the crowd teary-eyed and inspired. I’m going to do some field research based on her ideas of how to get description just right.

I meet online friend and picture book author, Jill Esbaum

jillsbooks. Jill’s presentation was one of the most original I’ve ever seen. Informative, entertaining and funny!

Editor, Joy Neaves of Front Street, agent, Rebecca Sherman of Writer’s House, editor, Dianne Hess of Scholastic and Jean Gralley of Books Unbound presented their talks to the group. I came away with notes galore!

These three-day events are jam packed with group sessions, breakout sessions, critiques and after hours socializing. I had a wonderful critique with Joy Neaves. Her comments were right on target and will be very helpful as I flesh out my current WIP. All good stuff!

This was the first year that all the members of my face to face critique group were present. We had so much fun! We officially named our group, The Rolling Pens and adopted a motto: Write On! Peggy Tromblay bought us some nice plastic wine glasses and we signed them and toasted several times.

The Rolling Pens: Peggy Tromblay, me, honorary member, Dori Chaconas, Susa Silvermarie, Jenny Kloss and Denice Martin.

Write On!

Buying Frenzy: Books of my friends....

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 16:07:14 GMT

I've cleared one of my to-do lists and on it was purchasing several books. Yay! I have
another To-Buy list for holiday time (I always ask for gift cards or office supplies...LOL).
I Heart You, You Haunt Me by Lisa Schroeder is on my holiday list for its January release.
Please comment and let me know release dates and titles so I can add them to my future
buying frenzy. I think I may need to ask for a new bookshelf this year, too! ;-)

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Description	Quantity	Availability	Gift Options	Discount	Total Price
Such a Pretty Face: Short Stories About Beauty Ann Angel (Editor) Hardcover ISBN: 081091607X Online Price: $18.95	1	Usually ships within 24 hours	Gift-Wrap: No Gift Message: No	-$1.90	$17.05
A Crooked Kind of Perfect Linda Urban Hardcover ISBN: 0152060073 Online Price: $12.80	1	Usually ships within 24 hours	Gift-Wrap: No Gift Message: No	-$1.28	$11.52
Lessons from a Dead Girl Jo Knowles Hardcover ISBN: 0763632791 Online Price: $13.59	1	Not Yet Released	Gift-Wrap: No Gift Message: No	-$1.36	$12.23
Thirteen Reasons Why Jay Asher Hardcover ISBN: 1595141715 Online Price: $13.59	1	Not Yet Released	Gift-Wrap: No Gift Message: No	-$1.36	$12.23

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Affirming results...

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 15:39:16 GMT

Jen Barnes ( jenlyn_b) posted this test on her blog and I played along too. I posted the top 22 of 40. 23 and beyond made my eyes glaze over. To get your own results, go to http://www.careercruising.com (username: nycareers; password: landmark) and take their "Career Matchmaker" survey.

My results were quite affirming!

1 Critic - Not sure if I'd be comfortable with this.

2 Writer - #2! This is good. I likey. LOL

3 Communications Specialist Okay, I was a telemarketing supervisor many years ago. Does that count?

4 Data Entry Clerk - I do this at my day job and when I'm channeling my characters. Ha.

5 Lawyer - I did consider this as a profession at one point. I repped myself in court once and the judge asked me if I was a lawyer. When I told him no, he said I should be.

6 Civil Litigator - ditto much of the above.

7 Paralegal - ditto the ditto

8 Corporate / Commercial Lawyer - I'm seeing a pattern! The thing is, I love to research and break through red tape. It makes sense to me.

9 Editor - Does a school newspaper count? :-)

10 Comedian - I found this one to be well, funny! My current WIP is very humorous but I don't think I could do stand-up.

11 Print Journalist - Does writing for the CWIM and newspapers count. ;-)

12 Activist - Don't get me started. LOL

13 Historian - I was an antiques dealer for 10 years. I love the research to this day.

14 Corporate Trainer – Nah

15 Judge - Of American Idol, maybe!

16 High School Teacher - I have teens now. I qualify.

17Professor - Of dreams?

18 Criminal Lawyer - One or the other, thank you.

19 Legal Secretary – sigh

20 Researcher - Bring it on!

21 Political Aide - Not so much!

22 Television and Radio Reporter - a fun thought. E! TV on Children's Writers....

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 23:21:09 GMT

Hi friends!

I've been back to my school office job for 2 weeks now and settling back into a regular writing schedule. I'm loving it, loving it!
Before the end of summer, I rearranged my office and created a stunning view of my yard. I'm a big bird lover and I can't tell you how nice it is to have my windows usable again. (my blinds were often closed because the sun beat down on me while I was working). On a typical day, I have several hummingbirds feeding inches away from my window, chickadees, gold finches, cardinals, wrens, etc... to keep me company. There is also a Great Blue Heron, a Kingfisher and Northern Flicker but they stay at the edge of the property, down by the creek. I used to keep a list of birds I've identified and can now recognize the song or call before I spot the bird. I feel a bird book coming on one of these days!! :)

For now, though, I'm busy revising my YA, Mercy Lily, for my agent. She sent me a half page of revision suggestions and I think I'll be able to get it back to her by my self-imposed goal of Oct. 1st. I'm also fleshing out a new WIP and have three chapters down so far. I'm going to polish those and send them to Wise agent soon, too. This new book is so much fun to write! I'm looking forward to getting my agent's feedback on it. So far, both of my critique groups have enjoyed it and want more, which is always a good sign.

I'm also gearing up to present my first workshop at the SCBWI Wisconsin Retreat, Oct. 5,6, & 7th. We have a stellar line up and I'm excited and nervous about being part of the faculty! cynthialord will be here presenting on Theme and doing crits. Yay!!

Cindy and I go back as on-line friends and we met in person years ago when my family took a 2-week trip out east. Cindy arranged a picnic at an ocean-side lake and invited other Maine authors to join us. amanda_marrone , anom3( Mona) , Della Ross Ferreri ( volleypop) , Sarah Brannen ( http://sarahbrannen.yellapalooza.com/ ) , elsbet_vance , Cindy and I spent the day getting to know one another. I will never forget that when I arrived with my family, we stood at the top of a large staircase, scanning the people to find the group. I spotted LISA written in huge letters in the sand with an arrow pointing to my Maine friends! They all stood there waving. We had a great time and I’m looking forward to seeing Cindy soon.

It’s good to be busy!

XO Lisa