Midwife, nurse, grandmother, writer of novels for middle grade children: "Toto's Tale and True Chronicle of Oz", "The Weaver's Daughter", an immigration story, and "The Double Crossing", historical fiction.
This according to Nathan Bransford on his blog. Reminds me of what is happening with my writing lately, without the clean house. However, my garden is demanding and getting a lot of attention. Step 1: Start a novel Step 2: Write 50 pages in a month Step 3: Write 5 pages in the next two … More How not to write a novel
Once again I’m teaching the course I designed in Cultural Diversity at the online midwifery school, Aviva College. It’s a small group of students this time around, a real joy to read their discussions and see them learning and growing, becoming more aware of the many facets of culture and the importance of developing cultural … More Teaching cultural diversity
“Celebrate Peace!” is a musical and theatrical benefit for Jane Addams Peace Camp. The family-friendly event takes place on Saturday, March 9th from 1-3pm at the Resource Center for Nonviolence, 612 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz. Participants will include The Santa Cruz Peace Chorale, led by Aileen Vance, the Unitarian Universalist Just in Time Choir … More Peace Camp Fundraiser
After finishing a writing project, my most recent middle grade book SHELL, it’s been hard to find inspiration to continue with something else. I felt no enthusiasm. I felt stuck. Even though I had a story in mind, one I started to work on a few years back. Finally I resolved to write something every … More How to keep on writing
Sorry if you’ve missed my blog over the last couple of months. The holidays were a busy time. But, besides that, I’ve been figuratively holding my breath waiting to hear from an agent and an editor who requested the full manuscript of my latest book, Shell. I hoped to blog with good news. But I’m … More Back on the blog
Patti Gay, an author illustrator in my critique group, has posted an interview with editor Emma Dryden on her blog. Emma Dryden has years of experience in children’s publishing and calls herself a “generalist”. She works on everything from picture books and illustration, to middle grade and young adult. She is currently a free-lance editor. … More Emma Dryden interview
I have been very lax in keeping up this blog. First there was summer and all that involves. Lately I’ve been working frantically to revise one of my books for submission for whole novel critique at the upcoming Pacific Coast Children’s Writers Workshop. But, on the subject of revision, here is some excellent advice from … More Revision
This week I visited the Aptos Community Garden to plan for a composting workshop there. The garden is in its third year and is lush and beautiful. Members can lease up to two plots (a few are still available), build their own raised beds if they want, and grow whatever vegetables or flowers they like. … More Aptos Community Garden
Need help around the house or garden? Want to learn French or knitting, or get a massage? Do you have a skill or service to offer: petsitting, composting, a ride to the airport? Time Bank Santa Cruz members offer services to other members, accruing hours in the bank. They withdraw hours when they receive services … More Time Bank
I haven’t attended this workshop, in my own backyard, now in its tenth year. But a local writing friend has been several times and recommends it. I hope to go in October. For any of you who are writing for children, here’s some information. Sounds like a good line-up of faculty. 10th Annual Pacific Coast … More Pacific Coast Children’s Writers Workshop
Sylvia Patience, Author 