The Write Read for a Wintry Afternoon

Easy for you to say, Steve baby.  That’s my response to Stephen King’s famous quote – they’re all famous −“If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time (or the tools) to write.  Simple as that.”  It's not always that simple.

My books have been gathering dust and creating stress.  Yes, it stresses me out when everything seems to take precedence over reading.  Anyway, today I finished a book that I couldn’t wait to receive in the mail – months ago − Ellen and the Hummingtree by Audrey Austin, a writer from Elliott Lake. 

I had the good fortune to meet Audrey online and become acquainted with her writing.  If memory serves correctly, I first noticed Audrey’s work on Commuterlit.com, a site that has featured my work as well. 

Ellen and the Hummingtree is an interesting book about a woman of deep faith who has a unique coping mechanism.  She speaks to God.  Now, I know you will argue that many of us speak to God.  But Ellen believes God lives inside a large yellow quartz rock in her backyard.  Oh, and of course He speaks to her too.  There’s a little hole in the top of the rock.  Never mind, just read the book.

It is a collection of well-written stories that weave back and forth through the emotional circumstances of a woman’s life.  These stories delve into her relationships as a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.  Oh, and cousin – I forgot about her cousin Marielle.   

In my opinion – only my opinion – the theme of this book is fear.  I know that some of you who are familiar with this book may harrumph at that statement but a book is very personal.  It’s interpreted differently by each reader.  That’s why I love talking to my first readers.  I’m fascinated by the interpretation of my work.  Each person sees something different or relates with a different character.  I digress (as always). 

Audrey’s character, Ellen, is on her own to raise two children.  Fear.  Her grandson, who has a learning disability, is bullied at school.  Fear.  God lives in a rock in her backyard.  That would scare the crap out of me.  (My attempt at humour – I’m sorry)

Ellen has many fears, as do we all.  The fear of growing old and senile, the fear of having to give up a home to live in a facility.  Then there is the ultimate fear.  Of growing older and older and older, when all she wants is to re-unite with all the loved ones that have passed on.  You do remember that I said this was strictly my opinion.

Near the end of the book there is a chapter I Need You to Remember Me.  I remember reading that story, or at least an edited version, some time ago.  Please tell me, Audrey, that this was a published short story at some point.  If not, I had an incredible déjà vu moment.  I liked the story the first time I read it – otherwise I never would have remembered it – and it will remain indelible in my mind.

The last chapter Time to Go Home is melancholy and poignant.  I have witnessed death and thought about life after death.  I appreciate Audrey Austin’s rendering.  This chapter was a fitting ending to a thought provoking book with a unique approach. 

Ellen and the Hummingtree by Audrey Austin; a good read for a wintry afternoon.

Give Audrey a Like at https://www.facebook.com/audreyaustin.ca

And visit her blog at http://writecreatively.blogspot.com

 

Reading and Writing

It felt strange when my long-term project ended.  To have my routine disrupted was disconcerting and I found myself circling, unsure where to land. 

For those of you who follow my writing updates on The Write Break facebook page, you know that I have finished my novel, Bad Seed.  After the initial wave of euphoria, I slowed to a weary, grinding, mind-numbing stop.  Gradually, I’m recovering. 

 

I will begin sending queries on this psychological thriller in the New Year.  First, I must compose an attention-grabbing query.  Something that will make publishers and agents drop their coffee mugs and shout, Eureka!  That's a bigger challenge than writing the novel!

 

Speaking of challenges, I am working on a series for the First Monday magazine. A rather bizarre (would you expect any less of me) look at the ritual of obituaries, eulogies, and grief. 

 

The second article, It’s Your Eulogy – Get it Write, of the tongue-in-cheek series will appear in the December issue of the magazine. The article, Write Your Own Obituary appeared in the November edition. The link to this Up Close and Personal column is on the facebook page.

Following the advice of those close to me, I am taking a bit of time before diving into a new novel.  An upcoming retreat will clear my head for the next challenge.  The timing is excellent.  Yes, a few days away are always good for rejuvenating the mind and soul.  Naturally, I’m looking forward to the solitude.

In the meantime, I would like to catch up on my reading.  Two writers whom I’ve met online have just released new books.  Audrey Austin, from Elliott Lake, Ontario, just celebrated the release of her book, Ellen and The Hummingtree.  If the initial reviews are to be believed, it’s a winner.  I must order it immediately. 

Terry W. Ervin II just released a book of short fiction entitled, Genre Shotgun.  Couldn’t resist that book after reading about it on his blog, Up Around the Corner.  Keep an eye on future posts of The Write Break for my review of both Terry and Audrey’s publications. 

A Canadian publisher is currently considering my collection of stories.  It could be several more months before I find out whether the manuscript will make their published books list this year.  Fingers and toes crossed! 

I’m still hearing laments that readers can’t leave a comment on my blog.  (I understand, as I have problems at times leaving a comment on other blogs).  Well, my friends, there is a way around that glitch. 

• Scroll up to the beginning of this blog.  There is a facebook ad on both sidebars.  These links will take you directly to the The Write Break facebook page.  Click on one of them. 
• Now you are on the facebook page. Click on LIKE.  (It's near the top of the page.)  The Like will change to Liked! That’s it! 

Okay, now you will receive my writing updates on your facebook home page, you can check the site anytime, AND you can easily leave as many comments as you like, post a message to me, or share your thoughts!

It will be awesome to see you there!!