Friday, October 21, 2011

A Well Deserved Cause

As a writer, you just never know who is out there interested in what you wrote, inspired by your words, or even curious after reading teaser scenes. We sit for such long hours allowing images and life situations to capture our mind and flow through our fingertips onto the page, hoping that what we produce is making sense. It's not just a story, but the gift of literacy that we are continuing to spread and nuture in the minds of those who love to read. And what about those that want to read, but the resources or funds are limited? This is where a new, but true story begins.

A month ago, I received an email from a very determined lady in Ohio who has a passion for helping her community stop illiteracy. You see, for her town, some of the libraries had closed, funds were limited, and school libraries hadn't seen a new book in years. As a result, the passion for reading wasn't being nutured, and so many were being denied the simple luxury of holding a new book in their hands.

Here's where it gets good. Due to a very popular young adult book, Lora Wiedenheft felt a passion for reading that she hadn't felt since high school. Like me, she mainly reads young adult books, but this is where her story takes a turn. She began to acquire so many books, due to a review site she started, that she decided to help out her local public library and dontate some of her beloved novels that were taking over her house. Later, she realized the demand and need was much greater than just the local library. High schools were in a bind and needed help. Lora still had books to review, but this time it would be different. This time she would involve the high school students, get them excited about reading  and reviewing, and then, stock the shelves in their school with the donated books they reviewed. With a huge YES from the schools, Lora designed a website where she keeps a list of books and a place to submit the review. READ FOR YOUR FUTURE was born.

I had the honor of being contacted by Lora. You see, I didn't know about her site, but somehow, she found me. Me? My book had only been out a few weeks and already something I managed to write sparked an interest enough to help a worthy cause. If I ever wondered why writing is a gift, I think I found my answer that day. ALTERED will find a permanent home there in an Ohio high school, shelved amongst so many other authors that I could only dream of meeting. But most importantly, my book will reach the hands of some very grateful students who have a passion for reading.

Lora's goal is: "We are dedicated to putting books in the hands of teenagers. Won't you please help in our fight against illiteracy."

With that being said, if you would like to contact Lora and help out, please visit her website at: http://readforyourfuture.blogspot.com/

In closing, later, my book will be reviewed and posted on her site. But for now, Lora surprised me with an interview that was posted on her blog recently. When you get a chance, please read and feel free to leave a comment.http://readforyourfuture.blogspot.com/2011/10/interview-laura-burks-author-of.html

Until we chat again, happy reading!

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Something Said

Hey everyone.

I belong to a writing group, HeartLa, and every year we have our FALL INTO ROMANCE READERS LUNCHEON. Here's the deal. Last year was my first year to attend. Why? Well, that's because I joined in February, and the luncheon was at the end of the year. So, here we are again, gearing up for this year. I'll have to fill you in AFTER we have the luncheon on November 5th.

For now, I wanted to share my experience from last year. If you could have seen my face. I was beaming to meet so many other writers, whether published or not. Oh, and the readers. Without them, writing just wouldn't be the same. Everyone was greeted with a bag of goodies (including a special Sherrilyn, Dianna book) good food, and of course, lots of time to get to know each other.

Me with Sherrilyn Kenyon


HeartLa group at dinner the night before the luncheon.

Our speaker was Sherrilyn Kenyon, and our emcee was Leo Honeycutt. Sherrilyn brought her friend Dianna Love. What a triple treat. Anyway, I can remember listening to every word Sherrilyn said with such awe. To an unpublished, at the time, author like me, hearing her spill her heart out was a turning point in my writing. She was funny, caring, and above all, answered all my questions. Yes, I had a lot. I was unsure if I was even a writer. I thought only published authors could call themselves that. She very kindly shared inspirational stories of people who were never published, but their work still tugged at her heart. So, unpublished can be a writer. I was glad to hear that. Rejections were getting on my last nerve.

My point to all of this is that she was so humble and ordinary. Not ordinary, boring. Ordinary as in approachable and real ... normal. I so wish I could talk to her today after being published. I have a million question I would ask. And I'm sure she, Dianna, or Leo would answer.

In a few weeks, Sabrina Jeffries will be our keynote speaker. Debrah LeBlanc will be the emcee. I'm sure this year will hold some surprises. And just like last year, when I least expect it, something will be said that I need to hear. Something that I've had on my mind that somehow will be addressed in a way that finally makes sense. I'm sure you know just what I mean!

For an update on ALTERED, it's only been 6 weeks and the reviews have me speechless. So far, all 5 stars. Oh, and what people took the time to write is so encouraging and beautiful. When you get a chance, check out the reviews and new interviews on my website. A big thanks to everyone who continues to support me.

If you're a writer, or whatever you're doing, keep me posted. Some days you are so pumped to do what is driving you. And other days, well, we need SOMETHING SAID.

Until we chat again, have a great week.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Best Seller

Hey everyone!

Just found out that ALTERED made the "Best Seller" list for the month of September at my publishing house. Thanks to everyone for making this possible. I am forever your biggest fan!!

My fortune cookie had a very interesting message the other day - "Don't be surprised by the emergence of undiscovered talents!" This could have been your message. I've heard from so many of you that have put your talents aside thinking you don't have time or can't do it. WHAT? No more excuses. Today is your day to discover you. Keep me posted so I can cheer you on!

Until we chat again, have a great week.