You Only Write So Much

Camp NaNoWriMo Day 3! Where I Save My Work

2013-07-03T12:06:00.001-05:00

Hey again guys! For me it's day three of Camp NaNoWriMo and it has been going very good for me so far. I had about 4000+ words the first day and now day three I'm planning not to spend the WHOLE day writing. I had nothing to do yesterday so I kept writing and writing and writing because I have no friends during the summer. :( Kidding, this camp is obviously more important than my fellow friends.

Here is a picture of me today around early morning time when I just gave out in like the first paragraph of the day. Ain't I attractive here with my little mustache. ----------->>>

Okay so I want to talk about how I save all my chapters and work for NaNoWriMo. It's important to save and back up your work in different places just in case one place doesn't work when you open it. I have all my chapters saved in three places and this is how I use them:

Write app on Windows- I use this app on my laptop with Windows to actually write in the process with no distractions and everything is all clear on my screen.

Microsoft OneNote 2013- I save my chapters on here so I can organize which parts I have, which parts I don't have, and switch around chapters if I need to. This place is good to see overall what I have in my novel.

Microsoft Word Documents 2013- I use this regular word processor to save my chapters after I finish it on my app and then after I finish everything I will use this place to actually edit my work and print out the manuscript. So I kind of use this as a place to save all my drafts.

So Basically I have a place to write all my work, I have a place to organize all that work, and then I have a place to edit, process, and print out that work. They are all saved in those three places also just in case I need a backup.

I have all all these resources because not only do I want to back up and save all my chapters I want to have different places or stations for me to go through while I organize and edit my novel.

Tell me where you guys save all your work and how you organize everything for NaNoWriMo! Is it on Google Drive? Just on your word processor? Scrivener?

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5 Writing Tips:

21 things no one will telly you as a writer but someone probably should
25 Ways to be a Happier Writer
Revision Ideas and resources Galore!

4. Steal Like a Writer

5. 101 Best Websites for Writers

Camp NaNoWriMo Day 1! + 5 Quick Writing Tips

2013-07-01T17:49:00.000-05:00

Hey there guys! So today is Camp NaNoWriMo day one, I was up all night on my computer until midnight just to start up camp super early.

I'm really excited about my concept for my story it's called More Than Words, inspired by the track More Than Words by Extreme. All I can you give right now is that it is a fiction YA romance story. I think what I like about my concept is that it's not insta- love it's about these two kids who bond together in their childhood, get separated in their early teens and then fate has its way of making them come back together.

Now there is still SO much more to that simple plot line I just wanted to tell you about the romance structure. If you guys really want to know what it is about comment below and in the next post maybe I'll give you something more.

So for the first day I have completed 3283 words, slow claps everyone, slow claps. I completed the required words for one day maybe two but I am have second thoughts about my story structure. It just feels like there's not much excitement in my plot so far nothing exciting is really happening. I think if I just get more and more of the story done maybe I'll have a better feeling but for now I'm second guessing my plot structure and the events. We'll see what happens I'm just diving into this thing for the first time :)

Here is my Camp NaNoWriMo Profile- http://campnanowrimo.org/campers/josie500

Okay so for every blog post for my Camp NaNoWriMo update I will include 5 Quick Writing Tips or quotes! Here are the 5 tips for today:

Josie Weekly: Favorite posts and Tips 6/18/13

2013-06-18T11:19:00.001-05:00

Hey there guys! Today is The Josie Write up Weekly Post :) Where I answer your questions or suggestions. I also post the week's updates with my favorite posts and tips of the day for reading or writing.

Okay so one reader emailed me one time to play this game when a person shows you a book and you must write down or say the first feeling that you feel or the most memorable thing you remember about the book when you see it. I did this earlier with one of my friends and this is what I said in accordance to each book:

Tiger Lily: "Tears and Crying, sadness from the ending. Oh the remains of childhood!"

This Lullaby: "Sweet love, a cute and different romance"

Graceling: "Even more sadness,oh Poe....:( :( :("

City of Lost Souls: "Disapproval (Shaking my head) just... no...no"

Delirium: "I wonder what that country did to make love illegal."

Tigers Curse: "(makes swooning face) oh yeah, Ren and Kishan. Hey there pretty tigers..."

Fang [Maximum Ride #6]: [The content of my feelings at that moment were too intense to record. Please stand by for my heart to recover from the broken pieces James Patterson tore. Warning: my heart just might have a second explosion from the overflow of memories rediscovered. ]

Okay so that's what I said or felt during this challenge, If you want to try it yourself record and post the results on your blog and leave a link back to this post.

It was really fun but unfortunately as you saw my feelings exploded from the overwhelming book feels. Comment below if you want me to answer a question or do something else in my next Josie Write Up Weekly.

Here are My Favorites of the Day for Readers and Writers:

Fandom fun Quote of the Day:

http://www.tasteofawesome.com/Funny/Who/305738
Seems Legit

Inspiring Quote:

"A Chinese proverb says an invisible red thread connects those destined to meet, despite the time, the place, despite the circumstances. The thread can be tightened or tangled, but never be broken."

Favorite Writing Tips and Advice:

10 Things learned During Camp NaNoWriMo

This is the post that convinced me to DO Camp NaNoWriMo

Video of the Day: Factors of a Great Novel

Blog Article or Tip of the Day:

ARE YOUR FOLLOWERS *REALLY* FOLLOWING YOU? – WHY GFC MEANS NOTHING

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Comment below if you want me to answer one of your questions or suggestions for next week's post, and if you also have some favorite posts, quotes, videos, or tips for books, writing, or blogging comment down below with the link also. I hope you enjoyed my links today tell me which one you really liked, until next time guys! -Josie :)

3 Tips for Finding YOUR Story [Camp NaNoWriMo Prep]

2013-06-16T19:22:00.004-05:00

Hey again guys! Today I will be attempting to help you writers out there turn on your brain gears and figure out what you want to write about. Whether it's for Camp NaNoWriMo or another project everyone gets in a creative rut, here are 3 easy tips to find the story you really want to write about. Follow along and your writers block will just be another victim to it.

Play "What If?"

Basically in this exercise you or a group of friends ask questions like "What if people could control gravity?" or "What if the government totally collapsed and all societies must start from scratch?"

Get fun with it, curiosity is key. Many people who have experience with writing much often say that you should only write what you know and don't try to put yourself somewhere you don't know. I disagree with that notion, for NaNoWriMo it's built especially for young writers to discover outside what they know and discover things THROUGH writing.

When playing this simple game with yourself or other people it's great to be outrageous and creative but also make it connect with something you would really be interested in writing about.

Think of Your Favorite Books

Right now I want you to put in your mind your most favorite book of ALL TIME, the book that you most absolutely love. You got it?

Okay now I want you to think about what made that book stand out for you? What elements did the author put in the book that made you love it? Was it the romance, the mystery, the way the characters interacted with each other?

Think of what elements you want to include in your novel or what genre you find most interesting to write about. The point of this exercise is to learn from what other authors have done to create their novel. I'm not encouraging you to ask yourself for example say "What would J.K. Rowling do at this scene? What would she write?"

I want you to take notice of what makes other books special and write your novel with your own ideas and stand out at the same time. Trust your own instincts, and be inspired by other peoples.

Think of What Themes Interest You

This kind of goes along with thinking about your favorite book but this time I want you to ponder about what themes you want to include in your story.

True Love? Friendship? Law and order? Trust? I'm basically asking you to think of a lesson you would want to include. This is a time to get really personal and really dig deep inside to think about what lesson in your life so far has truly inspired you.

This is when you really ask yourself "What do I want to write about?"

You also would want to think about your own past experiences good or bad, this is where a story truly comes from. An experience that you hold close to your heart that you want to put down on paper. How can you connect that with your story?

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So those are my 3 Tips in helping you find YOUR story for NaNoWriMo or any other project, I hope you guys got some ideas while following them. There are endless amounts of things you can do to figure out what you want to write about, surf the internet, watch YouTube videos about it, maybe you just need to take a walk outside and something will hit you.

Whatever you do make sure in the end you write something you truly are excited about. Have fun with it!

If you would like to share some of the exercises I explained here or tell me some of your own novel ideas feel free to write it in the comments below. Ans as usual if have any questions or suggestions about anything in this post you may comment as well, I love talking to you guys.

If you liked this post follow my site here or subscribe by email. You can also find me on Goodreads, Pinterest, etc. which are all on the side, check me out there--------------------->>>>>

Until next time my loves! -Josie :)

Camp NaNoWriMo July 2013! Camp Prep

2013-06-14T11:26:00.001-05:00

Hey there guys and gals! Today I will be talking about the upcoming Camp NaNoWriMo and how to warm up your yourself with your writing. For some of you who don't know what Camp NaNoWriMo is it is a lightened version of the NaNoWriMo in November but basically who have a month to write a nonstop draft of your very own novel while reaching your goal of writing a certain number of words everyday to complete your overall month goal and finish your first draft.

For more info about all the rules or if you would like to join the Camp NaNoWriMo experience Click HERE. It's my first year doing this so I am really hyped up and excited to share my two-week-before prep and experience with you guys!

So from this day Camp NaNoWriMo is in 17 days, roughly two weeks before the intensity begins. Whether you are reading this for Camp NaNoWriMo or November NaNoWriMo, a rough two weeks is about the right amount of days to prep yourself and your novel. Although I would recommend in the future to have an idea before hand about what you want to write about.

For the next two weeks I will make posts with a guide for each topic I will be talking about such as making characters, building a world, story structure, etc.

If you want a close estimation on when the posts will be up they will be done in the next week or I will try my hardest to do that :). I'm doing that so you will have time to complete certain tasks without having to wait for the next post to come up for another four days or so.

So if you have been following along this post so far I hope you have at least looked into signing up for camp NaNoWriMo, you guys this camp is such a great opportunity for many young writers who want to draft their very own novel. If you still haven't signed up Click HERE again. I'll keep linking back to it until you do it.

Even if you're not sure yet stick around my blog for the next week and check out the posts I will be putting up to help create the beginnings of your masterpiece that will come to be.

Before you tune out from this post make sure you follow my blog to receive updates on my future posts, check me out on my social media including Goodreads; Pinterest: all that good stuff on the side----------->>> and click HERE.

Drop comments below if you're participating Camp Nanowrimo with me or if you have any thoughts you would like to share. Also if you would like to share a cabin with me at the camp I am open to anyone as well :) Until then, it's goodbye my loves!

Was I dead for a year? +Upcoming News!

2013-06-10T21:02:00.001-05:00

Hey guys! Oh my gosh, it feels like forever since I've written and I am very much alive. I know I haven't been on in a year and let me tell you I have missed everyone and everything in the blogging world.

This past year which is the first school year having this blog has been extremely stressful. I haven't posted at all because I was going through a lot of things in school, dance, and volleyball. It's been a really hard year for me to just push through everything while keeping all my grades and exams in line. During dance I have had very rough times because of my breathing and competition was an awfully busy season during the year.

Everything was very extreme for me this past year but I am coming back into the world I love as a new person and with a better perspective on my writing.

Overall I know I don't have a great excuse for leaving you guys, my main homies, but I do want to say I still care so much about everyone still following me and supporting me by still leaving nice comments (unless you're one of the anonymous spamming people who want to advertise for random companies by randomly commenting, it's annoying >_<) and I appreciate in advance for you followers for still keeping in touch with my posts and blog.

NEW STUFF COMING UP!

- Redecorating the blog so I will be constructing it for about a week

- My Goodreads account will finally come out of it's rock also so message me there- http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8202524-josie

- My Google page, Writing and YA fiction updates, will soon be updated

So I'll be updating EVERYTHING from my blog to all my accounts, social media, and more.But most importantly after a whole year I really want to come back and be connected with everyone again especially my really close followers and friends here who I've left for a while with no word but still want to keep talking to. I know I can't just easily come back to the world I haven't seen in a while but it would be really nice to meet everyone all over again and come to the great community of bloggers and readers I know.

There will also be much better, richer, and deeper posts.

As I said, I have come back as a new person with new experiences. I feel much older now going into high school, I have learned so much this past year and expect much more from me from now on. It's Josie 2 point O. I'm steeping it up.

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I CARE FOR YOU GUYS...

I can't stress enough that I really do care for you guys who follow me and who have actually became my very good friends and I hope we can still keep that connection and still meet each other all over again. I love you guys and this blog shows that.

Some really close and most awesome blogger friends:

http://theawkward-ness.blogspot.com/

http://livingforthebooks.blogspot.com/

http://17hnak.blogspot.com/

http://thenewhavenproject.blogspot.com/

RECONNECT WITH ME

So, if you're any new or old followers I would love you guys to shoot me an email at josieWriter101@gmail.com or message me on My Goodreads just to say hey, give me any updates on your blog, give me LINKS to your blog, or give me the equivalent of a "glad to have you back hug" through email.

It's good to be back. New posts coming very soon -josie:)

I. C. Sci.- Fi Second and First place winners! + Quick Update

2012-09-03T14:44:00.001-05:00

Hey agian guys! So what I have for you today is the second and first place winners of the I.C. Sci Fi Challenge!

In 2nd place is Lucinda Fountain’s “The Crimson Portal” with 18.5 Points. Congrats Lucinda! To read Lucinda's unedited entry, click HERE.

The first place winner with 18.75 points is Mike Slabon with “A Second Chance”. A big Congrats to Mike, your story is amazing man! To read Mike's full unedited entry, click HERE

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So not many things have been busy around my blog, as some of you guys know I have been EXTREMELY busy with a lot of things for school and other activities and I am trying my best to keep up with everything.

If any of you guys have any questions about anything about my blog, please email me or comment down below. I promise I will do more posting from now on. -josie :)

I.C. Sci- Fi Challenge Third Place Winner!

2012-08-26T17:35:00.002-05:00

I am so glad to announce that Annie and I have read and judged every entry for this challenge and have chosen our top three winners! Our 3rd place winner set the bar with 17.5 Points - Rouge World by Stanley Morris. Congrats Stanly!

Read Stanley's unedited entry and enjoy!

Rogue World

By Stanley Morris

"Time to impact, Astrogation?"

"One twelfth rotation."

"Estimated distance?"

"Estimate less than one twentieth planet radii, Captain. Sorry, that's the closest our sensors can give at this time.

The grim face of the captain did not change. The rogue world would not hit the atmosphere of the planet they were watching, but the death and destruction would still be enormous.

"Can you tell, yet? Is this an extinction event?"

"Possibly, but my best guess is that some people will survive. The habitats they've carved into the bases of their continental shelves will withstand the shockwave and the oceans will protect them to some extent."

"The colonies on the other globes might survive," the captain mused aloud.

"Possibly. It will be a close thing if they do. Unless we intervene. I doubt their space capabilities will survive, except for those on the colonies."

The captain emitted a frustrated growl. "If they discover we knew this would happen and did not inform them, they might not accept our help."

"They may have no choice. Not if they want their species to survive."

"Damn the politicians."

"Begging your pardon, Captain, but it wasn't just the politicians. A lot of regular people thought we shouldn't let them know of us, either. The violent nature of this species is scary."

"They were never a threat. The first colony has been in existence for less than fifty planet revolutions. At least we were allowed to encourage space flight. They're lucky so many of them enjoy that kind of fiction. They're primitives, Stro. They have barely achieved space flight. They'll be lucky to survive a revolution."

"I'm not so sure about that, Captain. They're innovative, that's for sure. And now that they're manufacturing their Chang-Diaz plasma engines on their colonies, they'll be capable of exploring their solar system. They've already built automated harvesters."

There was silence for a time, and then the Captain said, "Still, this was a moral failing on our part."

There was no reply for a bit and then hesitantly, trying for tact, the question was asked.

"Captain, will the crew be allowed to witness the event?"

"Yes, Stro, that is permissible, even desirable, I think. There should be witnesses to the deaths of so many people. When the moment of close contact approaches, let everyone not absolutely essential watch their monitors."

"I'll pass the word, Captain." With those words, the Captain was left alone. Crew were close by, but none dared to intrude on the Captain's thoughts.

When the time came, when the rogue world finally caught the larger planet, the Captain was in the Crisis Room watching with the other line officers.

"It's close now, Captain."

The Captain did not answer. That the rogue world was close, was obvious from the physical changes they could see."

"Pass-by beginning!" The Captain did not begrudge the excitement in the voice. How could anyone not be affected?

"What's that?" The exclamation was loud even over the hubbub of many conversations.

There was a buzz of voices in the room as brilliant orange spikes appeared in the monitor, seeming to emanate from the point of closest contact. They flashed incredibly far out into space, well beyond the diameter of the rogue world. They lit the rogue world, and the officers could see vague features on the dead globe, and they watched as the spikes lit the blue planet with such bright white light that its color was lost in the area nearest to the rogue world's passing. All conversations ceased and the silence lasted until the spikes retreated, dimmed, and then disappeared.

"Are we receiving any status reports?"

"Yes, Captain, I'm monitoring reports. There are survivors!"

To the Captain's surprise, a spontaneous cheer erupted in the Crisis Room, and the music of that cheer, and the meaning of that cheer—the celebration of the close escape from extinction of a species, by another species whose existence was not even known to those who had just escaped oblivion—lifted the Captain's heart. Over the eons, many species had disappeared from the roster of life in the galaxy, but for now at least, this species remained.

"Flash a report to Command. Ask for permission to make our existence known and to offer aid. Beg under my name, if you have to. Point out that they are no longer a threat, and they won't be for hundreds of years."

"Yes, Captain."

The Captain stared at the blue planet feeling sorrow and hope. In another monitor, not being watched, the dead rogue world was already far away, traveling harmlessly through this solar system. Its departure would occur a long time from now, and in time it might make its way to another inhabited system, but until then it would be lost in the deep.

Comment below to congragulate Stanly for his third place standing! The second and first place winners will also be coming up soon. :)

Endless Imagination

2012-08-23T17:14:00.002-05:00

Have you ever had the feeling when whatever you are doing at a present moment you get this inspiring idea or picture in your head and you love it so much it sticks to your head the whole week?

It's like this sudden burst of explosion in your brain, you don't do anything you just think and live in that idea for a while. Untill you notice your just in the local park looking out at nowhere.

I love that feeling, I don't do anything about it I just live in the idea for a while. Isn't that what fiction stories are for? You don't do anything, you just live in it. That's the best part of imagination, enjoying the veiw as it plays in your mind working in all the right places.

Finding That State of Living

That state of living in an idea is simply from your own original imagination. A while ago I wrote a paper for school about the imagination references of one of Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream". What did I found out? "Shakespeare's objective towards his art is to make the audience experience what he feels and imagine while he writes his plays."

I might sound like a total hippie right now (no offense to hippies though) but I think imagination is just for the enjoyment of living in it. Like when you're reading a book I love living in that world with no distractions at all, the enjoyment is everything I look for in a book.

So when you get that feeling when whatever you are doing at a present moment you get this inspiring idea or picture in your head and you love it so much it sticks to your head the whole week, DO NOT GET UP, LIVE IN IT, ENJOY IT, AND WRITE IT DOWN WHEN YOU"RE DONE.

You see I feel that nothing is worth writing down if you don't get that feeling when whatever you are doing at a present moment you get this inspiring idea or picture in your head and you love it so much it sticks to your head the whole week.

Sit in the park, watch a movie, listen to music, read a book, play with your dolls, anything you need to do to get your mind flowing. Make sure it something you enjoy. I always listen to music whenever I'm doing ANYTHNG at home. I also bounce my volleyball around the house when I'm just living inside my own little imagination. I love it. So much.

My point is when you get that simple burst of an idea you can't get out of your head at anytime, remember that sometimes you just want to live it for a while. That's the best part of the imagination process right? Doesn't hurt to take all that enjoyment for yourself.

YA Novels "I'm Not Impressed"

2012-08-15T13:25:00.002-05:00

So if you ae like an olymic fanatic like me, you probably know this viral meme going on with Mckayla and the whole "I'm Not Impressed" picture. So I rally wanted to try to use the meme also but with a book version! :)

In this meme, I will show you YA books that I am officcially not impressed with.

Dragonswood by Janet Lee Carey- Okay so I read this book a while back and I'm going to say this as simply as possible: I am not impressed. I don't think Mckayla will be either. On a good note I like the fey stuff they got going on and it takes place in the salem witch trials wich I just love. But the plot just went really slow for me and it felt like everything was just thrown together not thought out correctly.

The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler- I was definately not impressed with this book. What I really liked about it was the concept, it takes place in 1996 and the main characters discover Facebook. The thing is Facebook wasn't invented that time so they got to see who they are in the future and the characters constantly keep playing with their futures on facebook.

What I didn't like about it was first the main character Emma. I found her extremely stubborn and annoying, she was the one who kept playing with her future and planning on which guy she wants to get "in a relationship" with on facebook as an adult. Not the kind of main character I admire like Katniss Everdeen.

Another thing what I didn't like was that at the end of the book they didn't even explain this weird coincidence that they accidently got a future facebook program that wasn't even invented yet! What, no explanation why these kind of things happened? I mean I can't blame them for that concept it's just I was looking for something to base the whole book on.

Firelight by Sophie Jordan- I can'tsay that I wasn't totally unimpressed with this book I actually kind of enjoyed it with the rest of the series. There was just one thing that really annoyed me. I found its concept over used and it seems like one big cliche. You see, it always starts with a girl and a guy. the girl is supposed to be together with this guy. Then the girl runs into another guy, he's usually pretty cute. But their love is forbidden. Then there goes this whole Twilight like scene. I found it sorta sweet but I'm not impressed by Sophie Jordan using this stradegy.

That is all for toady, I'm glad I got all that off my chest. So if you want to talk about books that "Didn't impress" go To This SIte and click "make your own" that will give you Mckayla's picture! Link back to this post if you have done your own! :)

Total Fangirling Book Club!!! I have a question first

2012-08-13T19:34:00.001-05:00

Hey guys! So I'm quickly getting back on my feet with my blog and one of my first order of business is to post the second insallment of the short story series I'm working on. I have a few drafts of them finished so far and I just wanted to quickly ask you guys a question or more like a poll.

For the next Total Fangirling Book Club, what would you like the club to be talking about next?

The Fault in Our Stars
The Selection
The New Haven Project: Anomaly
Perks of being a Wallflower

So go on, comment your pick on which one you would like to see first!!! -josie

Josie is Back!!

2012-08-12T11:43:00.001-05:00

Haha. Sorry I just felt like adding this.

Hey guys! I am so excited to be back once agian on my blog it's just everything has been really hectic this past week with my school year coming up and I have been really stressy since the beginning of the month and I just didn't really have enough energy or time to come back here and post agian.

But I am here now and I hope I'll be back on my regular routine agian.

My school year starts on August 27 which is coming up very quickly for me because (lucky me) I have band stuff to do before that, organize my supplies, heck I even have to do some essays in the summer before school. Its pain. I don't like pain.

1. Since summer is ending sadly for me I wanted to organize a few things on my blog. So first I have finally decided to change my routine for blog posts.

Before I used to post every single day (which was probably a little annoying for some of you guys) and I don't think I can hold up that commitment when school starts so you can count on me to post on Monadys and Fridays. Remember that my main posting wil be on Monday and Friday for certain! If I do have a lot of time during the whole week I will do an extra post.

2. The second thing on my agenda today is to talk about guest posting. I wanted to ask really breifly if I can have some help with some of my posts this week and if any blogger would love to guest post on here. PLEASE SAVE ME FROM MY MISERY OF STRESS! Cause it will take me a while to get back to my writing mojo. Here is a list of topics you can talk about for the guest post:

Cretaive writing
writing tips
writing excercises
why do you write?
poems
short stories

I think that's all I can think of right now, if you want to write about something not on the list at least make it something that I would post on this blog. I can accept book related thing just not any book reviews. I don't know what other book related things are there but I just don't post book reviews.

So email me if you want to guest post an article on here, I love meeting new bloggers and working with them! -josieWriter101@gmail.com

I think that's all for now, agian I am so glad to be back and posting and I hope I will hear from you guys a lot more soon! Hugs and Candy! -josie

Sneak Peak at Chapter 4 + Interview with Bruce Hodge!

2012-08-06T17:53:00.002-05:00

Hey guys! Today I have a very exciting interview with the author Bruce Hodge! Before I get into that, I wanted to tease you guys with an excerpt of chapter 4 in the story I'm writing on here.

(Tyler is speaking) "Please Ethan, I know this is the absolute last thing you wanted me to ask, but I knew that you knew this is the reason why I called you over here. Now next you're probably going to say what a bad idea this is and how this is just some ploy to get you away from her because I just hate you. And- and the truth is Ethan I never really did hate you that bad like some huge demon, I actually kind of admired you sometimes because you always made Violet so happy."

So what do you think guys? Leave comments below! Now, here is my interview with author Bruce Hodge!

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where are you from and when did you start writing?

My name is Bruce Gregor Hodge, I’m a 51 year old writer from Lymington in Southern Tasmania. I live in an old farmhouse in what was once the heart of Tasmania’s largest apple growing territory with my cat (and best friend) Max, and half a dozen chooks. Originally I’m from Melbourne, but moved down to Tasmania in 1998 after spending many years working in hospitality and tourism.

I wrote my first book in 1983 while I was recovering from a broken back, typed it out on an old typewriter in fact, and foolishly threw it away after carting it around for many years. It was dreadful, but I now keep everything I write no matter how bad it may be!

2. Tell me about the books you have written and the most recent ones. How did you come up with the ideas?

After the first attempt I wrote another suspense thriller, once again manually typed, but this one I kept and one of my next projects is to re-write it for release as an ebook (the writing was awful, but there was a great plot in it, so I think it might be worth the effort!) After that I wrote yet again a mystery/thriller, this time set in a ski resort, called it White Hush, and partnership published it. Back in the days when floppy disks were really floppy, it deformatted four days before it was due at the printers, and had to be totally retyped. Sadly that caused some serious text deformatting and a lot of problems occured, so the released book wasn’t quite what it should have been. Recently I’ve had that retyped and am currently rewriting it, too. The new version of White Hush is to be released as an ebook by the end of August this year. In the meantime I’ve released the first two books in my ‘Scarpthorne’ fantasy double trilogy, for 16 – 60 year olds, kind of a YA/mainstream fantasy crossover. I have a science fiction novel half finished, am half way through the third Scarpthorne book, and have been working on a Gothic Horror (which I’m going to be tackling as soon as I’ve completed the third Scarpthorne instalment).

For me, ideas don’t seem to be a problem, they pop out of everywhere. The problem is getting them down in writing! Maybe I have an overactive imagination, but I’m constantly getting ideas for stories, though where they come from, I don’t know, they just do. Sometimes I just actually dream the stories!

3. How did you get so interested in the genre you write in?

I’m not really stuck on one genre. I think a good plot is important, a good storyline gets the creative juices flowing, and then the characters have to kind of take on there own life. If that happens, the writing process just encourages itself.

But I must admit, having written a few books and got nowhere with publishers, I had a look at the success of JK Rowlings and did what so many other people are now doing. (If she can write a series of fantasy books for young adults plus, and have such success, than maybe I can too). That’s what started the Scarpthorne series anyhow. What kept it going? I guess the characters and plot took on a life of their own and kept me interested in what was happening, so I’ve kept writing it and haven’t stopped. I’ve grown to rather like those characters now (does that sound too weird?)

4. What is the hardest part of writing to you?

Developing the routine of sitting down and writing every day. Most successful authors will tell you that’s what you’ve got to do. It’s called self-discipline, and I’m afraid I’m not too good at it.

5. What is a typical writing day for you? When and where do you write?

Get up, feed the cat, feed the chooks, breakfast, do the dishes, the washing, check email, goodreads, smashwords, amazon, pot of tea, make the bed etc., go shopping blah blah blah. You can see the self discipline problem, can’t you? Okay, then I get on the net, and then, by lunch time, I get the guilts and will maybe start out by doing some editing and then maybe even, if I’m not exhausted or haven’t found something else to do, I might even do some writing.

I do have a room put away for my writing, a big desk and everything I need plus a nice rural view. But I’m a bit slack when it comes to producing the goodies.

6. What advice would you give young writers who are reaching their goals to be an Author?

First of all, do what I don’t. Develop a writing routine. Everyday sit down for two hours and write. (Maybe even just start with half an hour). It doesn’t matter if you write rubbish, just as long as you write.

Secondly, writing is the easy bit. Editing is the most important thing you can do if you want other people to read your work. So don’t crack the champagne when you finish writing the book. Wait until you’ve finished editing it. And if you’re really going to release it, get your literary friends to red pen as radically as they can – better they find the mistakes than your readers!

And finally, once again what I’m not good at, trying to get the social networking thing happening. Having 1000 friends to tell about your book launch (when that day finally arrives) is going to give you a really great head start. And if anyone can explain twitter to me, PLEASE email me. I’m afraid I just don’t get it.

7. Are you working on anything right now?

Yep. The third in the Scarpthorne double trilogy (about 120 pages done so far). My gothic masterpiece (only just started). Rewrite of White Hush (to be released in a month or so on amazon/smashwords etc). A science fiction (about 70 pages done so far) and a whole heap of little ideas I’m working on.

8. Do you have any favorite books or authors

I enjoy reading a wide spread of genres. What I don’t get into is vampire romance mush (and there’s just too much of it about). I love a good plot, logical story development, believable fiction or fantasy, good characters, and I love books that are easy to read – good, fluent writing style.

9. Which book of yours would you most recommend?

Right now? I think the Scarpthorne books are a reasonable read, and I think the series gets better as it goes on, and I think that readers, if they persist, will grow to like the characters. The third book will hopefully be out and about by next January. It’s already a few months behind schedule. Between the three, that’s about 1,150 pages so far!

10.Why do you write?

I don’t think ANY successful author has ever written for any other reason than that is what they love doing most. In fact any author at all. Writing a book is like any other form of creativity, it allows the author to create something brand new that is entirely their own. There’s a really amazing feeling about finishing a book, you kind of need to experience it to understand.

Why do I write? Because I love writing. Why? It’s fun, it’s exciting, maybe even it makes me feel as if I’m a bit special. You know when you’ve done something you’re really proud of and when you finish you stand back and say….. I did that.

Then of course, as the icing on the cake, you get to share it with other people, and maybe even get to spread a little magic around the world.

And finally, after a lot of years of practise, I think these days I’m reasonably good at doing it. And we all enjoy doing stuff we think we’re good at, yes? Of course, I may be completely deluding myself, but then as they say, ignorance is bliss J

Tis I am Back! + I. C. Sci- Fi Challenge!

2012-08-05T20:11:00.001-05:00

From HERE

Hey guys! Oh my gosh I am so sorry I have not written in a while (3 days... I think?) but I have been super busy with a lot of improvements on my blog and If you may or may not have noticed I have been promoted to one of the co- moderators in a new Goodreads group called Young Adult Readers Club! I was extremeley excited when I started really getting into the group and geting to know a lot more readers like me and I just love the experience!

If you have not joined yet, please do! Sixela (The other Mod) and I have been working really hard for people to participate in more discussions in our group (we have 80+ memebers). Here is the link- http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/74900-young-adult-readers-club

Before I lose you guys, I just wanted to inform you about my blog hosting the second challenge called I.C. Sci-Fi (see what i did there, haha) that my good friend and blogger Annie and I have created and been judging in. Congrats to all the winners from the first challenge over at Annie's blog, I loved reading everyones entries! So now, it's time for my all time favorite challenge that includes creating a sci-fi story with other specific rules. Go over to the I.C. Sci- Fi tab on the top of this blog to see more!

I would also like to give a shout out to my Friend Delaney over at The Random Ranterer for entering the first challenge! You're an amazing writer Delaney (There were no names on the contest entries so I didn't know who you were) and I just know you are going to love this second challenge so please, enter!

So that is all, wait! I have also posted the third chapter of my online story just recently and sadly no one has seen it yet, sad face. So go on over to my blogs feed and it should be there still ready for comments!

Now that is all, thank you. :) -josie

Chapter Three: Every Sick Day

2012-08-04T11:59:00.002-05:00

In David’s mind there was only him and the 40 ft. Road Bridge. He wasn’t going to let anyone stop him; his body was pumping with adrenaline.

In David’s mind he silently said goodbye to his parents, Tyler, and Violet. More tears streamed from his puffed eyes as he thought of his family, but this time he let them fall.

* * *

As Ethan and Violet were approaching the Road Bridge, Violet spotted Tyler and his class of friends on the play set.

“TYLER!” She yelled out when she reached him with Ethan. Violet rested her hands on her knees to catch her breath. Tyler jumped out to help her up, alarmed.

“What’s wrong?! What did you do, run a twenty mile marathon?” He looked over at Ethan darkly.

“Are you responsible for this?” Tyler pointed out Violet.

“No, you don’t understand,” Ethan tried to explain between breaths, “David is running around here at this time with a huge mob with Daniel, doing who knows what, trailing behind him. “ Tyler walked toward Ethan with narrowed eyes.

“Daniel huh? So you’re with them?” Tyler crossed his broad arms.

“That wasn’t what I said Tyler I-“

“No, I think it’s what you didn’t say. You’re always with Daniel, and you’re probably just here to stall me! How dare you bring Violet into this! You know she can’t be here especially in a crowded road!” Tyler was in face at that point.

“I don’t think you understand the issue that your own brother is running about here too Tyler, risking his life!”

“Oh, so you’d rather leave Violet walking around somewhere here?” Tyler was obviously trying to pick a fight.

Violet interrupted Ethan and pushed Tyler back.

“David is running towards this 40 ft. Road Bridge at this time with a huge mob of kids from the other class, doing who knows what Tyler! We’re supposed to do something, stop pick fighting!” Ethan tried to calm her down a reassure her carefully. Tyler stopped dead in his tracks and shuddered.

“What kind of business could he possibly have at the bridge?” Tyler asked calmly. Violet, who was on the verge of hot tears, took Tyler by his shoulders violently.

“You have to stop him, Tyler. The only thing I suspect is…” Violet’s voice shook. “Is… that he’s going to jump off that 40 ft. bridge and-“

Violet didn’t finish, for Tyler was already running to David on the edge of the bridge. Ethan, Violet and everyone else followed.

* * *

David looked behind him, Daniels mob was still trailing closer and closer behind him. He estimated that he had ran about a mile from the park at that point. The traffic was extremely busy on that time of day which, David hoped, would slow the down the mob.

He felt like his lungs would burst, but he finally reached the edge of the steel bridge and started climbing.

* * *

Violet thought they were going to be too late, but was somehow relieved when she saw Tyler climbing after David on the edge of the bridge.

Violet looked around her and saw almost the whole school crowded around the bridge either chanting or screaming at David to stop. This would have already attracted the police and driving car passengers by the bridge.

Violet was scared and she needed her parents, or even Tyler’s. Ethan always had an emergency phone with him but she lost him in the huge crowd

“Ethan!!” She could barely move properly with all those kids crowded against one another.

“Ethan, where are you!!! “

* * *

“Violet!” Ethan screamed to the top of his lungs. “Violet!”

Ethan couldn’t be more worried about anything in his life other than that moment. Her parents trusted him and he wasn’t going to lose Violet on a busy, crowded Road Bridge. Ethan called all the Auborn’s for David and Tyler, but Violet was nowhere to be found. Suddenly out of the huge crowd, Daniel came up behind him.

“Dude, where were you this morning? We’re best friends, next time you’re coming on board! I mean, look at this racket!” Daniel motioned to the crowd around him.

Ethan had always been Daniel’s best friend since Kindergarten and they did everything with each other. Their first prank ever was when they placed clear glue on Matthew Davis’s chair and he stood up to a very disgusting mess, and Daniel was hooked on Ethan ever since. Ethan stopped his bad attempts suddenly when he met Violet in Third grade, and his way in school just changed that time. Of course, Daniel tried not to be upset by all of that, even though it was a total set back.

“Are you crazy, man?!” Ethan screamed, “What are the police going to think when they see all this? This is way too far someone could get hurt, and now I can’t even find Violet! How am I supposed to protect- Oh no, Tyler’s going to kill me. He already hates me as much as it is; he is going to kill me when he finds out I lost V.” Ethan sounded exasperated as he tried massaging his forehead.

“Relax Ethan, Violet is probably somewhere with her friend or something but this,” Daniel motioned to the crowd again, “this is our time. The trouble of troubles. We’re going to rule the school!”

As if on cue, three police cars and an ambulance pulled over.

* * *

David was now on the top of the Bridge railing, about to give his life to the clear river.

“DAVID!”

The Strong Writer

2012-08-02T10:41:00.002-05:00

Hey Guys! It has been a while since I have posted writing advice and I guess I just got my head drowned in books this past week and trying to see what other designs I can do for my blog. So before I start I just wanted to ask if anyone has any great sites for blog designing that is free because I just want something more to my blog design.

**********************************************************************************

The Strong Writer Position

One day in dance class, we had a guest teacher Alex Wodja from So You Think You Can Dance. She told us to be a strong dancer it's all about contact. Make contact with the audience, to not be afraid of looking at the mirror in the dance studio.

So I asked myself, what makes a strong writer?

It's hard to define a strong writer, it's not just if you are a bestselling author or not I feel a strong writer is someone who stands out and knows their game. The writer I want to be would be focused, unique, fearless, and most importantly, she will know herself as much as she knows anything else in the world.

So I actually looked up stuff online about being a writer, and it was as boring as my fish jumping out of its bowl. Okay, well the fish thing was pretty cool but all the stuff online had a bunch of grammer chiz that I doon't want to read. So here are my own ideas of being a strong writer.

Have A Voice, a Meaning

A strong writer has to have a personality, you have to sound like a person. This is what makes you unique, and gives your writing a purpose. Along with your voice, what do you want your writing to change? Why would people want to even take a look at your work? What is your purpose?

This world doesn't need anyomore nonsense writing, in this century it will almost take a miracle to get your work accepted, because that's the thing. Your meaning or purpose will take you apart from any other writer. Don't settle to be a common bystander.

Know Where You Stand

I am a thriteen- year- old who loves to write but still struggles in her goals and tries to help other people like her. I don't feel lke thirteen, I want to do more. But I'm still young, there's still time for me, and I don't want to push myself too much.

Where do you stand as a writer? I think this is extremely important to realize because it's different from where you stand any where else, know your player in the game. But don't let it get in your way, this is for you to remeber who you are and why you write.

Be Fierce

Do I really have to explain this? Be fierce, bold, confident in your writing, comfortable with who you are as a strong writer. Fierce does not mean fearless. Fierce to me means making the strongest point of you stand out in your personality. It's not a feeling, it's an action. No matter if you feel like writing or not, write without fear of yourself.

Does that make sense?

Where Do You Want to go?

I'm talking about goals here. I felt like this should be included. You have to have heard them everywhere I'm getting kind of sick of it, but it's not something you should ignore. Goals are commitments, they are your promises.

Nothing much to say other than, MAKE YOUR GOALS!

**********************************************************************************
What do you guys think? I just thought of these things right from the top of my head. Did I use that idiom right?

Road Trip Wednesday #1 Best Book in July

2012-08-01T10:16:00.002-05:00

Road Trip Wednesday is a ‘Blog Carnival,’ where YA Highway's contributors post a weekly writing- or reading-related question that begs to be answered. In the comments, you can hop from destination to destination and get everybody's unique take on the topic.

This Weeks Question is: What was the best book you read in July?

This is a hard one, really hard. But I have to say that the best book I read in July would be Scarlet by A.C. Gaughen. I would highly reccommend this book to anyone who loves any kind of fiction and loves a good spinoff of an old fairytale. Actually- Here is the Goodreads Summary:

Many readers know the tale of Robin Hood, but they will be swept away by this new version full of action, secrets, and romance.

Posing as one of Robin Hood’s thieves to avoid the wrath of the evil Thief Taker Lord Gisbourne, Scarlet has kept her identity secret from all of Nottinghamshire. Only the Hood and his band know the truth: the agile thief posing as a whip of a boy is actually a fearless young woman with a secret past. Helping the people of Nottingham outwit the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham could cost Scarlet her life as Gisbourne closes in.

It’s only her fierce loyalty to Robin—whose quick smiles and sharp temper have the rare power to unsettle her—that keeps Scarlet going and makes this fight worth dying for.

ww.yoursite.com

Writing and YA Fiction page!

2012-07-31T12:23:00.001-05:00

Hey guys! If you have or havn't yet found out, blogger had added a section to our design column, Google plus. It allows you to share your blog updates more easily and create more traffic towards your posts.

So, I have created a a google page for my blog just for fun called Writing and YA fiction updates! It is still connected to my blog but I also wanted to add more things for books and other YA stuff.

What can you do on this page you may ask?

Find out upcoming posts on my blog
Updates on new books or news about YA authors
Teasers for my short stories that are upcoming on my blog
Keep up to date on writing or book events
Join in writing and book discussions!

So yeah, I thought it would be fun to make this page, you guys try to create one too I'd love to see others! Pleeeeeessssse Follow!

If you must know I already posted a huge teaser for the second post for total fangirling on the google page...
Also if anyone wants to run this page with me, feel free to cantact me! You see, this page is about writing and YA book updates so if you want to connect your blog on the page, please do tell me if you want to do it! I can take about 2 or 3 blogs :)

Here is the Writing and YA fiction updates page- https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/101723670446790177551/101723670446790177551/posts#101723670446790177551/posts

Want to follow right now?

Total Fan Girling Book Club! My Story short

2012-07-30T10:34:00.000-05:00

Hey Guys! I am so excited to present my Story Short series!
I just made that up, but my story short series is called The Total Fangirling Book club. A book club of hormonal fangirl girls and guys who talk and obsess about YA fiction books. It's pretty funny, but that's the point.

I must warn you; in the first episode of this story short there may be a couple of tiny spoilers for Maze Runner, and Divergent.

Short Intro to characters:
Anne- Leader
Jeff- The (think's he's awesome) jock
Kelsey: The blonde. (you can take it from there)
Rachel- The quiet one, but passionate about books.
Toby: The cool and calm one.
Sean: The cute Australian guy.

I have been putting this off for days now, and I just don't know if it's any good. I was fooling around on my computer.
Meeting of Total Fangirling Book Club #1

Anne happily rings the small golden bell and orders the first book club meeting.

Anne: "Hello everyone! I am so happy to announce the first ever meeting of the Total Fangirling book club! So nice to meet you all, my name is Anne."

Jeff: "Why is this club named Total Fangirling? It could called be Total Fanguying or even better, House of Slytherine!"

Kelsey: "Get over that Jeff!"

Jeff: "Drako rules."

Kelsey makes a disgusting sound and looks away.

Anne: "Okay! How about we introduce our selves first. Jeff, let’s start with you. Say something about yourself and tell us your favorite YA series or book.

Jeff: "My name is Jeff. I Wish I could change my name to Jace Wayland but government.... and you know... the economy." Rachel butts in.

Rachel: "That has absolutely nothing to do with the economy Jeff."

Jeff: "Then what do you call the recession?"

Kelsey: "bullshiz"

Anne: "Get on."

Jeff: "My favorite book so far is probably the Maze Runner by James Dashner. Hated the ending."

Kelsey: "I know right! Poor Theresa."

Rachel: “Okay, well my name is Rachel. People usually think I’m quiet because I mostly am. But I love talking about books. My favorite book so far would probably be the Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa."

Toby:"Oh I really liked that series too. Puck is my role model."

Kelsey:"Yeah he’s cute... so is Ash!" Kelsey says dreamily.

Jeff: “Ash is awesome."

Enters classroom is Sean.
Sean: "Sorry I am late mates, first day of math class isn't a beauty." Anne looks up and literally falls in love with his accent.

Anne:"Oh that's okay Sean! Just take tour time whenever you need it!"

Kelsey straitens her back and gives her million dollar smile towards Sean.

Kelsey: "Oh! There’s an open seat next to me Sean!"

Rachel: "So Sean! We’re introducing ourselves to the whole club, would you like to pick it up after me?"

Sean takes a seat next to Kelsey as Rachel flutters her eyes towards him. Jeff and Toby look unimpressed.

Sean: "Okay, well my name is Sean. I just transferred here last year from Australia and I have been reading ever since I was a little boy." Sean grins at Jeff. Jeff narrows his eyes trying to figure him out.

Jeff: "So what's your favorite book, Sean?" Jeff spits out.

Sean: "Well I have a couple actually but since this book club is mostly for YA fiction books, I have to say the Hush, Hush series by Becca Fitzpatrick. A very nice read."

Anne: "Oh did you know they are making a fifth book in the series?”

Toby: "That is the most terrible idea they have ever made."

Jeff: "Yeah. It’s basically just Patch and Nora going on and on and on doing- ."

Rachel: "Everyone thinks it’s going to be terrible but I still have high hopes. Except for Scott, no one likes Scott."

Kelsey: "I think he’s cute." Kelsey says trying to get close to Sean.

Rachel: "And you said Mitt Romney was cute and when you tried going up to him you had to fill out a restraining order."

Jeff: "Ooh, ten points for Griffindore."

Kelsey: "He reminded me of Logan lerman." Kelsey shot back.

Rachel: "He does not look ANYTHING like him" Jeff then interrupts.

Toby: "Ugh, didn't you guys just hate the Percy Jackson movie he did?"

Sean: "I thought it was pretty good."

Anne: "Okay! Let’s get back on track, Toby why don’t you pick it up."

Toby: "What up guys, my name is Toby." And consequently, my favorite book is Divergent. Honestly Four has that great sense of power and, spoiler alert, He dies in the end of the first book."

Anne: "No he doesn't."

Rachel: "Yeah, if he did there wouldn't be an Insurgent, Toby."
Sean: "I have to try that book myself, it sounds interesting."

Kelsey: "but it’s so looooong"

Jeff: "That’s what she said."

Anne: "I think we should save the Divergent discussion for another meeting because it’s such a great series!" Anne quickly writes it down as everyone simultaneously agrees.

Kelsey: "I bet you guys have all been waiting for MY introduction!"

Rachel: "No we haven’t."

Kelsey: "My name is Kelsey. I love to read obviously! And My favorite series so far would probably have to be the Mortal Instrument by Cassandra Clare!"

Jeff, toby, and Anne happily scream.

Anne:"Oh my cheeses, I love that series!!!"

Sean: "Cheeses?"

Jeff: "Yes! Another Jace fan! I swear Cassandra Clare has done it again with the Infernal Devices series."

Toby: "Jace and Clary all the waaaaay!"

Kelsey: "I know Right! City of Lost Souls wasn't that impressive but it was still pretty good."

Rachel: "Anne how about we save this discussion for another meeting."

Anne: "Great idea Rachel."

Kelsey: "Okay, did we get everyone already?"

Jeff: "Uhh well not yet. Anne?"

Anne: She looks up. "OH! Right. Okay, well my name is Anne. I just love the YA fiction genre but I read classics once in a while."

Toby: "What's your favorite book?"

Anne: She bites her tongue and looks down ashamed. "Well I have so many, so I guess you could just call the whole genre my favorite!"

Rachel: "That doesn't count Anne; come on it's an easy question."

Kelsey: "Yeah, nothing to be ashamed about."

Anne: Anne looks at everyone in the eye and braces herself. "My favorite is The Twilight Series!"

Everyone is surprised and they and start to moan and complain.

Jeff: "Are you serious Anne?"

Kelsey: "Ugh, okay the guys are pretty hot but the series just doesn't fit me sometimes."

Rachel: "That series bombs, you can't be serious."

Sean: "Yes, I do also agree. That series is just a bit overrated."

Toby: Toby speaks low and tries to hide himself. "Actually she's not the only Twilight fan in this room."

Everyone starts to complain again.

Hey, Why not share this with your Friends?

Th Sunday Post! ~Edition One

2012-07-29T11:17:00.002-05:00

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~ It's a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead.

My Exciting News: In the next week or so I will be hosting the Second Contest of Chompasaurus's Writing Challenge! The first one was the Signature Style challenge and sadly it's ended and our judging is being evaluated right now. So keep up with those updates, I'll post the second challenge rules and concepts really soon.

New This past week: If you have not been keeping up with my blog these days, here are the highlights this past week!

Boring Writing= Bored readers

Would You Rather Tag

Unlocking your writing Voice in 10 Easy Steps

Interview with Writer/Blogger Haley Nak!

Exciting New Giveaway: Grant Morris

Coming up this week: This week I'll be posting much more including the Third Chapter of my online story! I'm so excited, hopefully that will go up soon. Let me tease you with an excerpt:

“Violet!” Ethan screamed to the top of his lungs. “Violet!”

Ethan couldn't be more worried about anything in his life other than that moment. Her parents trusted him and he wasn't going to lose Violet on a busy, crowded Road Bridge. Ethan called all the Auborn’s for David and Tyler, but Violet was nowhere to be found. Suddenly out of the huge crowd, Daniel came up behind him.

Also Coming up this Week!: This past week I was also working on a short story series. It is called The Total Fangirling Book club. A book club of hormonal fangirl girls and guys who talk and obsess about YA fiction books. It's pretty funny, but that's the point. Maybe that will come up this week too, you'll never know...

What Else?: If you guys love new and exciting stories from bloggers, check out my friend, Delany's story she just posted! You all probably have heard of her, so go get good a look- http://therandomranterer.blogspot.com/2012/07/the-untitled-chapter-1_28.html

What are you guys excited for?

Exciting New Giveaway!

2012-07-28T10:02:00.001-05:00

Hey guys! Before I start, I just wanted to say that I have finally gotten 200 followers last night and I am really happy right now!! Thank you guys for supporting me and reading my blog, a lot is appreciated. I wouldn't have done all these things I have done without the people who supported me so thank you!

So my friend Grant Morris, the author, is hosting a really cool giveaway for his books. 3 Paperback and 3 Kindle copies of Deacon Leeds and The Pyramid of Symbols! check it out on his blog, but because Grant was super nice, he gave me the code so it can be entered through my blog also!

So ENTER! It can't hurt. :)

Oh, I should also say when it says to "Follow My Blog" on his blog to 'Grab my button' for the entry options, make sure to go to Grant's blog to do that- http://grantmorris.blogspot.com/2012/07/update-tusks-of-odoben.html
a Rafflecopter giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Feature and Follow Friday #2!

2012-07-27T09:29:00.002-05:00

Yay, another feature and follow! This is my second one.

Q: Summer Reading. What was your favorite book that you were REQUIRED to read when you were in school?

Well, in fifth grade we had to read City of Ember and it was amazing! It's like a really mysterious sci-fi book that took place in the future underground.

Another one was also in sixth grade when we were required to read a classic and I chose Flowers For Algernon. It made me tear up, it was a great classic.! :)

If you are new to my blog, feel free to look around and browse! Also check out my poetry contest the last post on my feed, :) -josie

Poem Challenge/Contest!

2012-07-26T16:32:00.001-05:00

from HERE

Hey guys! Let's get right to the point, I am hosting a small poetry contest! Don't worry, it is not a huge or strict official thing, I want you to write a Haiku (rember those? 5-7-5?) about anything related to writing.

3 Rules

Follow just the one Haiku rule. 5 syllables on the first and third line. 7 syllables on the second. 5-7-5, easy enough.
The topic must be about writing. Be creative, I'm not that strict. I like inspiring and creative Haiku's.
It WOULD be pretty nice if you were a follower or subscriber. (hint, hint)

So that's basically all the rules, agian nothing big. (Revised 7/26) Deadline: August 3 Next Friday night, U.S. Central time 7:30. Do the math.

From HERE

Then I shall chose two winners or how ever many I think are really well written, maximum would probably be 5 depending on how many people enter but two winners for now.

The Winners' Haiku's will be added as a one of the quotes on my blogs sidebar so it shall stay there for people to see. Also, if the top 3 runner ups have a blog I will interview them on a post and add their blog links.

The winners will also get their deserved bragging rights.

And sorry, you won't recieve a trophy as the very happy man on the left.

Entries: Just add your Haiku to the comments below. If you worried about people doing evil little things to your Haiku, you are also welcome to email to me at- josieWriter101@gmail.com

Good Luck! Be Creative :)

Intrview with Writer/Blogger Haley Nak!

2012-07-26T09:49:00.001-05:00

Hey Guys! I am really excited to post my interview with one of my very inspiring and awesome friends, Haley Nak! She is so sweet and nice if you guys have not checked out her blog yet, please do and follow her here- http://17hnak.blogspot.com/! Here it goes:

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where are you from and when did you start writing Haley?

My name is Haley Nakonechny and I am a sixteen year old from Manitou, Manitoba (I'm not surprised if you haven't heard of it :P). I live there with my parents, my two older sisters (yes, I'm the baby!), and my mischievous little shih-tzu dog, Molly. I love anything to do with sports, dogs, writing and chocolate (of course!). I started writing pretty much as soon as I learned how to print in Kindergarten! I started out writing the usual three sentence stories about my life that everyone in Kindergarten writes! From there I began to love writing so I started writing at home. I "published" my first short story when I was in grade one with hand drawn pictures and all! From there I never looked back!

2. Tell me about the stories you have written. How did you come up with the ideas?

I've always enjoyed writing short stories and poems and have just recently started to write my first novel. I mostly enjoy writing Fantasy because that's my favourite genre to read....and I read a lot (seriously). Strangely enough, I come up with my best ideas when I'm asleep! I finally became smart enough to keep a journal right beside my bed so that I can write things down before my dreams are lost! Dreams are usually where I come up with the main plot line, but I usually base my characters after people who I know in real life. That way I can give more details into what their personalities are like, and I find it easier to write about them.

3. What do you do in your freetime when you are not writing?

In my free time I love to play sports! My absolute favourite is badminton and I travel over an hour and a half every weekend to play at a club in Winnipeg.

When I'm not playing badminton, it's usually volleyball! I'm the setter for my senior high school team and it's in my opinion the most fun position to play! Another passion of mine is baking. I really enjoy baking a

nd decorating cupcakes. They're my favourite thing to make! Other than that, all empty spaces of time are usually filled with reading anything I can get my hands on and just hanging out with friends!

4. What is the hardest part of writing to you?

To me the hardest part about writing is coming up with those little "filler" parts of the story. Coincidently, those parts are my least favourite parts of a story to read as well. Parts that are exciting or have lots of suspense come to me easily, but making sure that everything is set up to my liking is challenging. Another part I find difficult is knowing when to stop writing for the day! When I get on a roll, that's all I want to do! Time goes by so quickly when I'm writing. Finding a balance between the real world and my writing world is important.

5. Tell us a memory of one of your writing experiences.

My best writing experience (so far :P) was when I won an award for a poem that I submitted for Remembrance Day. I had already won first prize within our branch but I never thought that my poem would make it any further than that. I was shocked to find out that I had won first prize in the Manitoba and Northwest Ontario region! I've never been very comfortable with sharing my poems with people, so the fact that I got recognized for one of them was really exciting for me! Since then I've been less shy about sharing them, so it was a really positive experience for me.

6. What advice would you give young writers who are reaching their goals to be an Author?

My advice for young writers who want to be authors is to just write. For me, a really good thing has been that I've been writing things since I was little because it helps me a ridiculous amount that I can look back and see what I was doing wrong. Write down anything and everything! What's wrong with filing an idea away even if you don't want to right about it at the time? You may look back at that idea and be like whoa! I'm glad I wrote that down! Another important thing to do is follow this blog! You Only Write So Much is a great place to find pointers on writing and get inspired!

7. Tell us about your blog?

Haley's Blog

My blog is actually my novel! I post the chapters of it online as I finish them. I find this helps me get feedback on my story and it keeps me motivated to keep writing it I'm currently in the process of writing the tenth chapter but the first nine chapters are posted and ready to be read! Here's the general idea of my story!

Heather was a regular girl just out of high school. Her life was going great. She had a great family, supportive friends, Tanner (the best boyfriend in the world), and exciting plans for her future. However, things change when she is suddenly killed in a car accident. She is introduced to a whole new world that she didn't know existed. Now she must learn to adapt to the strange new place that has new rules, new people, and....Phoenix.

8. Do you have any favorite books or authors?

Definitely! Who doesn't? My favourite authors include J.K. Rowling, Cassandra Clare, Suzanne Collins and Caroline B. Cooney. I have to say, I'm a sucker for series! Even if a book isn't that great, I have to read the sequels just so I can find out what happened! It's almost a curse! So that's why most of my favourite books belong to series. I absolutely LOVED the entire Harry Potter series, the Mortal Instruments series, the Hunger Games series and the Infernal Devices so far. I recommend all of them highly!

9. Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, or Hunger Games?

You're going to make me choose between Harry Potter and the Hunger Games? That's almost cruel! But in the end, if I absolutely had to choose I think I would pick Harry Potter. I was floored by the way all of J.K. Rowling's books were connected. Tiny details in the first book are huge parts of the story in the later books! How she even came up with all of it, who knows? As for Percy Jackson, I'm ashamed to say I've never read it....I might have to put it on my TBR list!

10. Why do you write?

I write because it's a way to put my feelings into words. I challenged myself to journal something every night before I went to bed for 365 days and at the end of the year I had accomplished my goal. I think that's what it is...when I write I feel a sense of accomplishment. Plus, when I write, the world can be whatever I want it to be at the time! I think that's why I love fiction so much because the possibilities are endless. I can create a whole new world, which is actually what I did in the novel I'm currently writing. I grew up writing, so to even think about stopping isn't really an option! It's one of my favourite things to do and I'm sure I will continue writing for a long time!

Thanks you agian Haley for letting me interview you about your writing and your life! I am really glad we did, if you guys have not followed her writing blog yet, you should! No, you have to! http://17hnak.blogspot.com/

Unlocking Your Writing Voice in 10 Easy Steps!

2012-07-25T10:32:00.001-05:00

From HERE

Why is it important to have your own unique writing voice? Well, having your own voice in your writing is what people will be attracted to, it has to represent and sound like your personality. This is especially important if you have a blog, you want people getting used to your voice and knowing that your readers will get to know you a whole lot better!

In this post I will tell you ten easy steps on finding your own writing voice. These steps were inspired by Jeff Goins- http://goinswriter.com/writing-voice/

Describe yourself in five simple adjectives. For example- funny, jumpy, calm, intellectual, smooth.
Ask and answer this question after that: "Is That how I talk?"
Think about your Ideal reader. Describe that person in detail. After that, write to him on paper or in your mind. Example: My ideal reader is a teen or a young adult. She's carefree and is alwys hungry for writing tips and advice. She's a newbie to blogging and so she always asks questions and talks to me for help. Oh, and she loves reading!
Write down at least 5 books or articles that you like to read. Examine them for a while, what did you notice? What do these articles say about you? "Often what we admire is what we aspire to be." -Jeff Goins
List your favorite, authors, people, or influences. Do you use these references in the way you talk and write? Example: I always refer to my favorite Y.A. fiction authors when I'm writing.
If you are still trying to figure out your voice, ask people. Ask them what is their voice and what do you sound like?
Go for the free- writing. Just go crazy and write what you feel like writing for about twenty minutes. Look back at what you wrote and ask yourself, "Is that what my writing sounds like?" If it does not sound like you, do it agian and don't hold back this time.
Read one of your writing pieces you have recently written. ask yourself, "Is that something I would read?" If not, change your voice.
Then ask yourself, "Do I like writing what I'm writing? Am I enjoying my writing time?" If your writing feels more like work, you are probably not writing like yourself.
"Pay attention to how you're feeling". How do you feel before showing other people your work? Fear? Worry? If you do, you are doing the right thing! Being scared of what you wrote is a good thing, it means you are finally trying to be different and nothing is wrong with that

So that's it! Remeber having a writing voice is important, it's your one selling tool to make your readers like you. Hope you enjoyed this post, to see more head oer to this link by Jeff Goins- http://goinswriter.com/writing-voice/

Comments, Opinions? Drop Comments Below! Hugs and Candy -josie :)