Whatcha Readin’?
How’s your writing going?
That is, if you are writing.
If you’re not, how’re you doing with your Bucket List?
I now have an outline, character sketches, and first pages written for my new Middle Grade story idea.
It’s been a long time since I’ve started a novel.
But just like Halloween, the scary part is over: I began.
While outlining, I realized I need some assistance with writing a “caper” novel, which is what my story is.
I can also use some inspiration for writing the magic words that will make up the book.
To that end, here’s what I’m reading this month.
Writing Help:
The Magic Words—Writing Great Books for Children and Young Adults by Cheryl B. Klein.
It’s an older book, 2016, and I’ve had it on my shelves for a while.
But I recently took an online UCLA extension class for middle grade writers, and instructor Timothy Cummings very highly recommended it.
I believe the word “Bible” was used on more than one occasion.
Write for Your Life by novelist and journalist Anna Quindlen.
She says, it’s a book for “civilians who want to use the written word to become more human, more themselves.”
That seemed like a worthy goal.
Middle Grade:
To Catch a Thief by Martha Brockenbrough.
This is a caper book about a thief who steals something precious from the seaside town of Urchin Beach. (Urchin Beach! How could resist?!)
One Time by prolific author Sharon Creech, winner of the Newbery Medal for Walk Two Moons.
This is about Gina Filomena, who has an active imagination.
I love the character’s name.
The Adventures of a South Pole Pig by Chris Kurtz.
This is an older book (2013), so I’m indulging myself when I should be reading new fiction.
Oh well.
I do love a pig. (You could have asked my sister and gotten an earful—or the stink eye.)
The Animal Rescue Agency—Case File: Little Claws by Eliot Schrefer.
This one satisfies my interest in caper books and my continued interest in chapter books.
What are you reading?
Until next week,
~ Gail
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