Hi Friends:
Because writer’s block is singularly possessive, this issue includes:
A sip…
When it is a matter of preference, the muse has pulled a Disappearing Act or is Missing in Action…
A shout out…
Studies suggest that self-promoters are conceited, annoying, and insecure, however, author, editor, and educator, Terry McMillian is living proof that a healthy dose of self-involvement yields rewards.
Active since 1976, and a former protégé of Ishmael Reed, she initially knocked the industry off its axis in 1987 when she single-handedly sent her first title into a third printing by launching and promoting her own book tour, and again in 1989 when the popularity of an additional title inspired the new girlfriend fiction subgenre.
The author of thirteen fiction and non-fiction titles, including, Disappearing Acts, she frequently graced bestseller lists throughout the 1990s and early 2000s and is credited with introducing readers to the interior identity, cultural consciousness, and visibility of successful Black women.
Recognized for her ability to craft strong, relatable characters, and plots that foster conversations and understanding of family dynamics, social issues, and self-discovery/personal growth, she is highly awarded and dubbed a thwarter of book biz gatekeepers.
A sentence…
Prompts inspired by Disappearing Acts:
“We are all a little broken, but the last time I checked, broken crayons still color the same.”
“We are all books waiting to be read, words waiting to be spoken, and stories waiting to be told.”
“In the end, only three things matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you.”
“There was a big difference between wanting to spend the rest of your life with someone and wanting to experience continuous moments of ecstasy.”
“Too many of us are hung up on what we don't have, can't have, or won't ever have. We spend too much energy being down, when we could use that same energy – if not less of it – doing, or at least trying to do, some of the things we really want to do.”
A few useful tips…
On writing about heartbreak:
Do not romanticize deceptions.
Know that readers expect to feel the physical weight of sadness.
Conflict, drama, dysfunction, and toxicity make the story relatable.
Flaws cannot be limited to the protagonist – both lovers must grow, develop, and change.
Keep the reader engaged with covert examples of the relationship/romance lacking compatibility -that is, don’t forget to add love to the story.
A book list:
Titles detailing the painful reality of working toward happily (n)ever after:
Addicted, by Zane
Before I Let You Go, by Kennedy Ryan
Between Friends and Lovers, by Shirlene Obuobi
The Other Woman, by Eric Jerome Dickey
Somebody’s Wife, by Robbi Renee
A few contest opportunities…
Sine Theta Magazine Annual Writing Contest
A fellowship/grant opportunity…
Sir Harry Evans Global Fellowship
The Kari Howard Fund for Narrative Journalism Grant
Mid-Atlantic Fellowships – New Jersey
The Miles Morland Foundation Writing Scholarship
Sisters in Crime: Pride Award for Emerging LGBTQIA+ Crime Writers
A few freelance opportunities…
Defector seeks pitches from fashion writers for trend pieces explaining why everything is food.
The Fuller Project seeks stories on issues that affect women in the US and globally.
Journey Into Cinema seeks long-form pieces on summer festivals.
Verywell Mind seeks young millennials/gen z writers in the lifestyle, mental health, and wellness space.
A few submission opportunities…
C Magazine seeks writing that addresses art and its various contexts.
Fiction Potluck seeks sci-fi Western tales.
Runner’s World seeks stories about every aspect of running.
WayWords Literary Journal seeks flash fiction.
A few sessions & workshops…
July 2nd
July 3rd
July 4th
July 5th
July 6th
July 8th – August 5th
Ongoing
A Sip, A Shout Out & A Sentence, the Writing Mixer
Chaulk Scribblers Writers Critique Group
Weekly Writers Meeting--Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, & Alt History
A few virtual book clubs…
And a final thought…
Looking for a BETA, diversity, or sensitivity reader? I am here to help, DM me, and let's discuss how we can work together.
This installment contains affiliate links; I earn commissions when you purchase books using that link, or you may please buy me a coffee.
Thanks for reading,
Broken crayons color the same. My new mantra. :)
I owe my book review abilities to her, as my first review was "Waiting to Exhale." 😀