‘My books aren’t trying to fathom the mysteries of human existence. I’m an entertainer.’
Bernard Cornwall
In this last week of 2010, I want to take a moment and wish all my readers a very Happy New Year. I hope 2011 brings you successful publication, writing breakthroughs and many other blessings.
Anthologies are a good place to sell shorter fiction, to experiement with different genres and styles, and to get your foot in the door with a new publisher.
Bridge House Publishing is a small press in the UK that focuses on “fiction that is a little bit different.” They’re searching for short stories for some upcoming anthologies, both print and paper:
Crime Stories 3000 to 6000 words, stories about “murder and all that surrounds it.” Deadline for entries is January 31, 2011, for publication in 2012.
Science Fiction: Stories up to 8000 words that will appeal to both young adults and adults. Deadline for entries is March 31, 2011 for publication in March 2012.
Find more submissions details here.
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Lee and Low Books in New York publishes multicultural children’s stories under is Tu Books imprint. Editorial Director Stacy Whitman is interested in acquiring middle grade and young adult mysteries and science fiction. She’s interested in both contemporary and historical mysteries. The mysteries should feature children of color or various ethnic backgrounds. In an interview with Children’s Writer, she said she’s interested in finding “This generation’s Encyclopedia Brown for a younger middle-grade audience” as well as “a contemporary mystery featuring a main character of color that captures that feeling of modern independent girl with good friends who solves mysteries/problems around her”, similar to a previous generation’s Nancy Drew or Trixie Belden mysteries. You don’t need an agent to submit to her. Send complete manuscripts geared to ages 8-12 or 12 and up with a cover letter and a brief biography. Find more submission details here.
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Aurora Regency is releasing yet another of my western historicals in ebook. San Antonio Rogue (originally published as A Husband By Law is a sexy story or an arranged marriage, set during the Mexican War. This is the third in a series of titles Aurora is releasing. Collect them all!
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As always, feel free to share the information in this blog. Pass it along or reprint it, as long as you give me credit and include a link to the blog. Thank you. Cindi
Here I am with my 2010 edition of Christmas Gifts for Writers. Find the perfect gift for the writer on your list, or send this link to someone who might be shopping for you.
No matter the fancy electronics on which you compose the final drafts of your priceless prose, most writers still have a soft spot for old-fashioned pen and paper. Spoil a writer on your list, and support another small business at the same time with a handmade, one-of-a-kind journal or notebook from Etsy.com. Whilte you’re at it, pop over to Levenger and pick up a fancy pen.
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Everyone should have toys for Christmas, and writers are no exception. I’m always partial to a good game of Mad Libs to get the words flowing. Or play with Magnetic Poetry.
How about the ever-popular Literary Action Figures. A posable Poe or Jane Austen on the desk is sure to inspire any writer, or at least give her a way to pass the time when the words won’t come.
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If you prefer a fancier gift, how about some Literary Jewelry, featuring quotes from great works of literature? Or go retro with Typewriter Key Jewelry. You can choose from pre-made pieces or order a custom bracelet, necklace, earrings or key fob.
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Writing can be hazardous to your health, so gift the writer in your life with some things to make the job more comfortable. Start with a handmade hot or cold pack to ease tight shoulders and aching backs. Add a gel wrist rest. Throw in a gift certificate for a relaxing massage and you’ll have a gift any over-worked writer would appreciate.
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I happen to believe no gift list is complete without chocolate. Gift your favorite writer (or yourself) with some Godiva or deliciously decadent Christopher Norman chocolates.
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Writers love books. Go all out and gift your writer with an e-reader such as a Kindle or a Nook. Or give her a gift certificate to her favorite bookstore. If she doesn’t have time to sit down with a book, how about a membership to Audible.com, where she can download audio books?
While you’re out there shoppping, purchase a few books by writers you know. Support your fellow word-crafters — they’ll get a sale and you’ll get some great fiction or nonfiction to read or to share with a friend. (And yes, I have a few books out there that would make great gifts. You’ll find a few listed to the right, or check out my website.)
So that’s my Christmas gift ideas for 2010. Now it’s your turn. What’s the best writing gift you ever received? And what’s on your wish list for this year? Post and tell me about it.
As always, feel free to pass along the info in this post. All I ask is that you give me credit and include a link. Thanks! Cindi
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