My Writing Odyssey

Discovering a new book to read, or finding a new author to stalk follow, are perhaps two of the greatest pleasures a reader can have.  There's something to be said for finishing a book that you have really  enjoyed, researching the author to see what else they have for you, and finding a dozen titles to look forward to.  Of course, sometimes working through this list can result in disappointment, which is why it's usually a good idea not to buy the author's entire collection at once. But what reasons do you have to pick the book up in the first place?  Most people reading this will have picked up a book on the merits of its pretty cover, which a lot will probably agree does not mean the book will be coming home with you.  An interesting title - particularly for a new author - is essential to draw new  readers in.  My favourite personal experience of this would be the thought process that led to my buying The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.  I found...

Living in a flat situated at the heart of a small city, I am used to finding my postbox filled with what ould only be referred to as "crap:" flyers, takeaway menus, catalogues from Peter Jones just because I bought a Mrs Tiggy Winkle music box for my mum many years ago...not to mention business cards and other nonsense that simply leaves me dumbfounded.  Most of it gets thrown away, although my fiance and I have been known to make use of the coupons sent to us by our local McDonalds. Today was no different - coupons for the online store of a clothing store who happen to own a shop almost across the road from my flat, and something from the electricity provider.  But I also recieved an unmarked white envelope with my name - correctly spelled - on the front.  But when I turned to read the back I was immediately intrigued by the word "Mslexia." Whilst my entry for the magazine's annual competition at the beginning of the year failed to impress the judges, it w...

Last week I had an accident whilst waiting for a colonoscopy which resulted in a serious blow to the head and the eventual cancellation of the appointment.  It will never have a place among my pleasant memories, the afternoon in A&E gave me a lot of time to think.  During that time I admitted to myself that no matter how hard I try, I will never be the next Terry Pratchett... ...no matter what I do I just can't grow a proper beard! Beg pardon to all of you for that silly bit of naughtiness.  It has been a long week full of stresses.and recovering from all my bumps and bruises, and it's left me prone to attacks of silliness (although it is true that the most I can achieve in terms of facial hair is a rather sparse moustache, so a beard is completely out of the question!). I have been in a "Poor Me" rut for quite some time, which has also left me with the attention span of a butterfly in many cases.  The last week was just a breaking point, although the blow ...

2011 has been a disappointing year thanks to these unfortunate stomach-aches that I have been plagued with since January.  Finally things seem to be stabilizing and I've finally stopped struggling with belly-ache, although my stomach seems to be anticipating the pains and tensing.  Maybe once all of my tests are over I may be able to turn a corner. In other news, wedding plans have taken a busy turn.  I had to order my wedding dress three months early and so will be seeing my actual dress in August rather than November.  That doesn't sound like a bad thing, does it?  At the time - thanks to some works unpleasantness - I'd had such a dreadful day that it felt like the End of The World!  But having had time to think and calm down I feel considerably better about it. Right, I created this blog to talk about something...what was it..? Oh yes, writing! I really must apologise to all of my lovely and above all patient watchers (7 of you now - thank you...

On the first day of 2011, I think it is time for a little reflection.  But first let me wish everyone who reads this a very Happy New Year and all the best for 2011! What a busy month December has been for this little blog since its revival!  The dust has been well and truly blown away with me publishing numerous posts.  December has seen my blog receive its first ever comments and now has two followers!  A special welcome to Victoria - thank you so much for following me!  This first month has been wonderfully revitalising, and may that continue well into the new year and beyond. 2010 has otherwise been a very unpleasant year for personal reasons, but it is now ended.  2011 will be a new start, full of possibilities and hope.  This year I hope to actually make something of my writing dreams... Yes, I say that every year, but this is the third time - maybe it will be lucky? This year, inspiration is my key word.  It is my goal to find ...