Compose a short mystery story inspired by the five pictures below. The catch? Your killer must be ambidextrous. Good luck writers!
1 minute
Writing Prompt: Whodunit?
Polymnia Blues
“A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.” ― Maya Angelou
Future Frontiers: Exploring the Latest Advancements in Artificial Intelligence
There has been an influx of advancement in artificial intelligence lately. Check out the videos below to stay up-to-date on A.I. as well as how it can benefit your personal life.
Writing Prompt: Whodunit?
Write a detective story, Sherlock. I'm sure you're up to the task!
How to Say Good-Bye
A brief short story/essay about my experiences with loss.
How to Say Good-Bye
A short story in remembrance of my grandfather as well as all those I’ve lost since his passing. I miss you all so much. May these words help others in times of loss, grief, and death.
I hate death. I hate everything about him. I loathe his long tattered ceremonial garb and bony decaying corpse. I despise Death’s dull eroding scythe that he totes around for “theatrical” purposes. I mean, the Grim Reaper must be delusional to think anyone would want to take a selfie with him. The man is carrying a giant weapon while being a walking talking corpse; plus, he reeks of decay.
Still, what truly irks me about Death is his punctuality. This demon has to be on time for every house call and business venture; Death must be prompt. Why can’t he ever take a holiday? Call in sick for a change? I’ve heard Aruba is nice this time of year. He could go there, but he won’t. Our ghoulish undertaker’s job is simply too demanding: He’s got a guff full of souls to steal and graves to fill. Sunshine just can’t compete with the charm of graveyards (apparently).
Even though I know I shouldn’t hate Death, I can’t help it. I miss the people he’s taken away from me, and I hated not knowing how to handle their deaths. What was I supposed to do—laugh, kick, scream, or cry? Over time I had to conclude that these were all acceptable reactions to loss. First, there was denial, second, anger, and then acceptance. All were an important step towards facing one’s grief and (since Death can’t quit his day job) the only means of which us mere mortals can coexist with him.
As Frank Herbert once said, “How often it is that the angry man rages denial of what his inner self is telling him,” and Herbert was right. Denial is a person’s way of keeping troubling realities at bay; of limiting pain. During my sixteenth year of life, my grandfather was dying, and, much like Herbert’s quote, I could not believe the news. I was in denial.
I recall looking into my mother’s tear streaked face, after learning of Grandpa Willie’s fate, and casually shrugging. “Grandpa has been sick before. He’s usually sick, right? He’ll get better again. Like always.” That statement appalled my mother. Her face began to contort into agonized wrinkles, as if she were having a Grand Mal seizure. “What?” she bellowed. Unabashed, I repeated, “Grandpa is always sick.” “Always sick…,” mom said. “Is that all you have to say? Always sick!” Pleadingly, I gazed at my father and siblings for assistance, but no one came to my rescue.
Sighing, mom whispered, “Not this time Jake.” Then she described what my grandma had said on the phone: Grandpa Willie had suffered from a fatal diabetic seizure, which occurs when abnormal glucose levels build up in the body. Shocked, I sprinted into my bedroom and tried to grapple with the prospect of his demise. Sobbing, I pleaded for a miracle. Begged God to spare my grandparent with all the tenacity of a Carmelite Nun. My prayers, however, went unanswered. On a cold Wednesday in April my jovial grandpa’s heart sputtered, failed, and then flat lined. Death had found a new soul to steal.
Regrettably, my arch nemesis, the Grim Reaper, returned one year later claiming another victim– my Great Aunt. Auntie Yvonne had succumbed to Alzheimer’s Disease; her mental capacity, along with her bodily autonomy, had finally deteriorated until nothing but her fragile corpse remained. Her passing, though years in the making, had been painful nonetheless. The knowledge of her suffering continually festered like an ever gaping wound in my heart.
Yvonne had once been a world traveler, hotshot photographer, million-dollar broker, and free spirited bohemian, yet Alzheimer’s had stripped her of her vivaciousness. It had ruthlessly cut my aunt down; removed her dignity as efficiently as a surgeon removes cancer. I kept wondering why her? Why did Auntie have to die in such a slow unforgiving manner?
“I don’t know why dear,” Grandma stammered in the darkness. Neither of us had wanted to go to bed before Auntie Yvonne’s funeral, so we drank tea in companionable silence. I had shivered. The condo my grandma lived in, somehow, felt chilly and lonely. I think grandma had felt the chill too. Clutching her blanket close to her chest Grandma muttered, “I suppose there was something she had to learn, do, or say…before she moved on…” I asked why; ranted even. I couldn’t understand why Auntie’s suffering had to be some kind of penance. It all felt cheap. Cruel.
For a while grandma said nothing; I thought the tension would engulf us. After what felt like ages, Grandma Carmen smiled. Her face became a thin shaky line. Grandma mused, “Whatever the reason for the disease doesn’t feel…doesn’t matter that much to me Jake. Not really. Making sense of all this… this life we live is something I have to leave up to God. What does matter is she’s free… My sister is finally free.” I fought back tears, knowing grandma was right. The dead, as ever, will always be far happier than those of us that linger behind them. They were unburdened of all pain and torment; in contrast, it was us, the living, that had to wander, learn, and struggle ever onward.
All those years ago, in the valley of my youth, I learned that death isn’t the end. I likewise learned that society can continually count on two things in life: Death and the taxman. Now people can handle the taxman, (evade him if they’re particularly white collar inclined) but Death, well, he is inevitable. No matter what we do, where we go, or who we surround ourselves with our journeys end with us in the skeletal arms of Death’s embrace. Nevertheless, Death can be dealt with accordingly. His ferocity can be minimized by grieving openly and honestly about a loved one’s passing. By doing so the Grim Reaper can no longer petrify, trouble, or perplex you, nor can he shout “Boo,” and take you by surprise either.
Indeed, Death does not dictate the extent of our existence; he is merely a guide. An otherworldly usher that benevolently directs us into the next phase of our adventure. Even so, in the prime of my late thirties, do not assume that I’ve “warmed” up to Death. I have not. I merely accept him as well as his universal purpose. (Neither of us will be besties anytime soon). Yet, it is thanks to Senior Death that I truly know what it means to move on from loss as much as I’ve learned the importance of saying good-bye.
Escape to Paradise: Tropical Reads Fitting for a Staycation
Can’t take a vacation? No getaways in your future? Then grab one of these books to transport you into the right kind of tropical climate.
- People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
- Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan
- The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren
- The Island Villa by Lily Graham
- Island in the Sun by Katie Fforde
- Summer at the Santorini Bookshop by Rebecca Raisin
- The Suite Life by Portia MacIntosh
- Becca Jumps Ship by Kate Breitfeller
- Eight Weeks Later: A Novel by G.T. London
- Cocoa Beach Cottage by Cecelia Scott
- The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward
- The Layover by Lacie Waldon
- Shipped by Angie Hockman
- Moti on the Water by Leylah Attar
- The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak
- The God of Good Looks by Breanne Mc Ivor
- An Impossible Return by Caroline Laurent
- Miss Benson’s Beetle by Rachel Joyce
- The Bungalow by Sarah Jio
- ‘Til the Well Runs Dry by Lauren Francis-Sharma
- You Then, Me Now by Nick Alexander
- Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher
- Mrs. Nash’s Ashes by Sarah Adler
- Bermuda Blue by Jonathan Cullen
- The Best of Us by Sarah Pekkanen
Henry’s Last Shot: Author Louise Erdrich’s Tragic Tale About Lost Innocence
New cars are supposed to represent promising futures, where adventure lurks around every corner, but in “Red Convertible” this is not the case. The new convertible featured in this story is purchased by Erdrich’s two main characters: Lyman and Henry Lamartine, best friends and brothers. For these teenagers, convertibles are the fashionable fast wheeling car; it is sleek, sexy, and chic in design. Everything a young man would want in their first set of wheels.
However, the author, Louise Erdrich, chooses this particular vehicle to illustrate how the dreams of our youth (unlimited freedom as well as youthful idealism) can remain forever unrealized. The car is rather a symbol of ravaged youth, innocence lost, and shattered dreams. This is true, especially in the case of Henry.
After returning home from the Vietnam War, the once carefree confident Henry has transformed into an introverted anxious mess. More than likely suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Henry cannot connect with the world around him. Civilian life becomes illusive to the veteran; every day tasks feel like shallow endeavors after having bore witness to the futility of combat. Such an extreme breakdown of a character serves Erdrich’s purpose of this story — the loss of faith in one self, and others.
The summer before Henry had been sent off to war, both he, and his younger brother, Lyman, had purchased the promising red convertible. Both boys, as Lyman recalls, “Went places in that car. […] Some people hang on to details when they travel, but we didn’t let them bother us and just lived our everyday lives here to there.” The younger man’s wistful statement displays how his older brother had once been: Optimistic and hopeful for the future. Like many teenagers before him, Henry had seen the world as beautiful once. A place he was determined to explore every square inch of, if he could.
As suddenly as both boys’ summer starts, it ends, and, just as suddenly, the army remembers Henry Lamartine. By 1970, Lyman’s brother-turned-marine, became a prisoner of war. Erdrich implies that Henry spent years inside a POW camp before being released. The brutality of North Vietnamese prison camps was infamous too. According to the National Museum of the USAF (United States Air Force,” … prison guards bound POWs’ arms and legs with tight ropes and then dislocated them, and left men in iron foot stocks for days or weeks. Extreme beatings were common, many times resulting in POW deaths.” It is no wonder Henry returned home depressed and angry.
Lyman makes note of his brother’s transformation with the following passage, ” When he came home, […] Henry was very different, and I’ll say this: the change was no good. […] He was quiet, so quiet, and never comfortable sitting still anywhere but always up and moving around. I thought back to times we’d sat still for whole afternoons, never moving a muscle. […] He’d always had a joke, then, too, and now you couldn’t get him to laugh, or when he did it was more the sound of a man choking, a sound that stopped up the throats of other people around him. They got to leaving him alone. [….] It was a fact: Henry was jumpy and mean.”
Besides becoming surly and withdrawn Henry also forgets his beloved convertible. The younger brother, Lyman, is amazed by Henry’s behavior. It is as if by ignoring the car Henry is declaring to others that he is giving up on himself. This now neglected convertible had been an example of the veteran’s passion for life. To let it rust mirrors Henry’s sharp decline mentally, physically, and emotionally. The car (much like its owner) is only a faded shell of its previous self. In a last ditch effort to “save” his brother, Lyman vandalizes the convertible. He wants Henry to find purpose in his life: Fixing the convertible could be that purpose. In doing so, then, maybe, the lost soldier could fix himself.
At first, it appears that Henry is embracing life once more; he painstakingly fixes the coveted convertible. He even expresses how he wishes to go off joyriding again. Excited at his brother’s shift in demeanor, Lyman joins Henry to visit an old spot from their childhood— the Red River. As Lyman observes the water rush past him beside his brother, he has a revelation about Henry, ” As I watched it I felt something squeezing inside me and tightening and trying to let go all at the same time. I knew I was not just feeling it myself; I knew I was feeling what Henry was going through. […] I couldn’t stand it, the closing and opening. […] I took Henry by the shoulders. […] I says, ‘wake up […].’
Henry refuses his brother’s pleas. ” ‘I know it,’ he says. ‘I know it. I can’t help it. It’s no use.'” At this point, Henry has decided to allow his pain to consume him. As if finalizing his will, Henry attempts to give his car to Lyman. By passing the vehicle onto his younger brother, Henry is silently asking Lyman to live for him. Distraught over Henry’s despondency, Lyman refuses to take the car, and, so the two fight. When the argument ceases Henry kills himself. Louise Erdrich writes, “Got to cool me off!” […] Then he (Henry) runs over to the river and jumps in. […] “My boots are filling,” he says. He says this in a normal voice, like he just noticed and he doesn’t know what to think of it. Then he’s gone.”
Erdrich wrote such a dark disturbing ending to convey how many servicemen and women can remain trapped inside prisons of their own making. Yes, we can certainly free ourselves from a physical place of torment, but the psychological effects of traumatic experiences can linger. For example, Henry believed he deserved to die. His survivors guilt, along with the nightmares he endured as a soldier, made him long to be with his dead friends. He simply could not forgive himself for what the war compelled him to do, nor could he forgive society for what he had observed in war.
In an attempt to lay Henry’s troubled soul to rest, bereaved Lyman sinks their convertible into the Red River. Lyman recognizes that, even though the car was no longer new, or promising, this vehicle was truly his brother’s car. It was a representation of Henry’s soul; a glimpse into the unburdened teenager he used to be. Truly, the convertible was Henry’s ticket to greener pastures. His final shot at freedom. A last chance at salvation, which, ultimately, the marine ignored, instead embracing a cold baptism in the river of his youth.
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Flavors of France
A list of essential French cookbooks to brighten up your culinary library.
- Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Sidonie Coryn (Illustrator), Louisette Bertholle, Simone Beck
- My Paris Kitchen: Recipes and Stories by David Lebovitz
- Paris Picnic Club: More Than 100 Recipes to Savor and Share by Shaheen Peerbhai, Jennie Levitt
- La Vie Rustic: Cooking and Living in the French Style by Georgeanne Brennan
- French Roots: Two Cooks, Two Countries, and the Beautiful Food along the Way [A Cookbook] by Jean-Pierre Moulle, Denise Moulle
- In a French Kitchen: Tales and Traditions of Everyday Home Cooking in France by Susan Herrmann Loomis
- A Kitchen in France: A Year of Cooking in My Farmhouse: A Cookbook by Mimi Thorisson
- Ma Cuisine by Auguste Escoffier
- French Provincial Cooking by Elizabeth David, Juliet Renny (Illustrator), Julia Child (Foreword by)
- Paul Bocuse: The Complete Recipes by Jean-Charles Vaillant (Photographer), Eric Trochon (Photographer), Paul Bocuse
- Patricia Wells at Home in Provence: Recipes Inspired By Her Farmhouse In France by Patricia Wells, Robert Freson (Photographer)
- Around My French Table: More than 300 Recipes from My Home to Yours by Dorie Greenspan, Alan Richardson (Photographer)
- French Country Cooking: Meals and Moments from a Village in the Vineyards by Mimi Thorisson
- Simple French Food by Richard Olney, James Beard (Foreword), Patricia Wells (Introduction)
- French Brasserie Cookbook: The Heart of French Home Cooking by Daniel Galmiche
- The French Menu Cookbook by Richard Olney, Paul Bertolli (Introduction)
- Dinner in French: My Recipes by Way of France: A Cookbook by Melissa Clark
- The Little Paris Kitchen by Rachel Khoo
- French Food at Home by Laura Calder
- A French Chef Cooks at Home by Jacques Pépin
- The Alice B. Toklas Cook Book by Alice B. Toklas
- French Comfort Food by Hillary Davis, Steven Rothfeld (Photographer)
- Anthony Bourdain’s Les Halles Cookbook: Strategies, Recipes, and Techniques of Classic Bistro Cooking by Anthony Bourdain
- The French Laundry Cookbook by Thomas Keller, Deborah Jones (Photographer)
- Barefoot in Paris by Ina Garten, Quentin Bacon (Photographer)
Writing Prompt: Whodunit?
Write a detective story, Sherlock. I'm sure you're up to the task!
Future Frontiers: Exploring the Latest Advancements in Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has advanced yet again. Take a glimpse into the future …
Peter Jackson Returning to Middle Earth
In 2026 expect a brand new Lord of the Rings film entitled, “The Hunt for Gollum.” Peter Jackson is set to produce the film while Andy Serkis will direct. For all the details about this new LOTR movie, click on the Variety link below.
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Prom Season Reads: Books to Sweep You Off Your Feet
Books to tickle your prom queen fantasies.
- 21 Proms by David Levithan (Editor), et al.
- Prom Anonymous by Blake Nelson
- Prom Kings and Drama Queens by Dorian Cirrone
- You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
- Liars and Losers Like Us by Ami Allen-Vath
- Prom Theory by Ann LaBar
- Promposal by RaeChell Garrett
- Last Chance Dance by Lakita Wilson
- It’s Our Prom by Julie Anne Peters
- The Night of Your Life by Lydia Sharp
- A Prom to Remember by Sandy Hall
- The Rites & Wrongs of Janice Wills by Joanna Pearson
- Promchanted by Morgan Matson
- Cupcake by Cookie O’Gorman
- Once Upon a K-Prom by Kat Cho
- Prom-Wrecked by T.H. Hernandez, Jennifer DiGiovanni
- Simone Breaks All the Rules by Debbie Rigaud
- Prom & Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg
- Sunny G’s Series of Rash Decisions by Navdeep Singh Dhillon
- How Not to Ask a Boy to Prom by S.J. Goslee
- We Were Promised Spotlights by Lindsay Sproul
- Prom and Other Hazards by Jamie Sullivan
- The Upside of Falling by Alex Light
- Geekerella by Ashley Poston
- A Night to Remember by Francine Pascal
Get the Look: Prom King and Queen Edition
Wondering what to wear to prom? Let these fictional couples guide you in the hunt for the perfect outfit.
DIY Mother’s Day Gifts
I get it: Gift giving can be expensive. You know what isn’t expensive? Homemade presents. Not only are diy gifts thoughtful, but they’ll make mom proud you went the extra mile for her.
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Feel Like You Belong in Stars Hollow?
Then read the following books to catch similar Gilmore vibes.
- The Bloom Girls by Amy Pine
- One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
- The Marvelous Mirza Girls by Sheba Karim
- The Mother-Daughter Book Club by Heather Vogel Frederick
- Throwback by Maurene Goo
- The River Runs South by Audrey Ingram
- Welcome to the Neighborhood by Lisa Roe
- The Owl & Moon Cafe by Jo-Ann Mapson
- The Brontë Plot by Katherine Reay
- Things I Wish I Told My Mother by Susan Patterson, Susan DiLallo, James Patterson
- The Secret Ingredient of Wishes by Susan Bishop Crispell
- One Speck of Truth by Caela Carter
- The Library of Lost and Found by Phaedra Patrick
- The Girl Who Reads on the Métro by Christine Féret-Fleury
- The Women in Black by Madeleine St. John
- A Constellation of Roses by Miranda Asebedo
- Call Me Zebra by Azareen Van der Vliet Oloomi
- I Was Told It Would Get Easier by Abbi Waxman
- Vanessa Yu’s Magical Paris Tea Shop by Roselle Lim
- The Little Shop of Found Things by Paula Brackston
- Maggie Finds Her Muse by Dee Ernst
- Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto
- The Overdue Life of Amy Byler by Kelly Harms
- Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
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Writing Prompt: The Letter
We all have words left unsaid; truths forever unspoken. My challenge to you, fellow writers, is to unburden yourselves with a letter.
Share it if you are brave or keep it close to your chest. Whatever you choose, let loose the sentiments and feelings to a certain someone that you have been grappling with. In the end, you will feel lighter.
Here is my letter….
To Absent Friends,
The three of us were close once. In the two of you I felt at home. I likened us to kindred spirits; sisters even.
When my own family didn’t seem to understand me, you both did. Within your friendship I felt embraced, recognized, and understood. Never belittled or chastised. Just understood.
L and S, I miss you.
You were there when I had my heart broken one too many times. You listened whenever I vented about my waning health. You both pulled me out of a dark dismal depression after surviving an abusive relationship and abortion.
Truthfully, the kindness and care I was shown kept me going. It was your encouragement that pulled me outside of myself. If not for you both, my parents, and therapy I don’t know if I would be thriving as I am now. . . or alive.
I had wanted to die eight years ago.
My psychiatrist and therapist were concerned when I first began treatment. They had me on an emergency plan; numbers to call, soothing techniques to try, along with trying various dosages of antidepressants, etc. In-between sessions (in order to keep myself positive) I had to keep a journal too. It’s purpose: Write at least one reason a day to keep living and that reason would be why I couldn’t harm myself. The two of you always made the cut for one of my reasons.
I’m not mentioning any of this to cause guilt or sympathy. Doing so, frankly, is unnecessary.
I don’t want pity; I also don’t want either of you to feel bad. I mentioned this to illustrate how important the bond I thought I had shared with the two of you was to me. It helped me heal after all. Thanks for that.
Still, for all I am grateful for, a bitter taste in my mouth remains in the way you each left.
You exited my life without so much as a warning or a goodbye.
I don’t even know what I did.
Suddenly we’re best friends and then “poof.” I’m ghosted. Ten years of friendship forgotten. What doubly hurts is S you were getting married; had verbally invited me to the wedding. The invite occurred the last time all three of us had lunch together at L’s father’s house. It was a backyard BBQ. L was in town with her husband and everyone seemed welcoming. Happy. Not long afterwards, well, I become a footnote in each of your histories.
L you awkwardly wished me “Merry Christmas” about four months later. Shared pictures of your daughters in a group text. It was stilted; formal. I can’t recall if I responded. I haven’t heard from you since. It’s been…2 years? 3?
And S? You had called me feeling regret about the wedding snub (or so I had thought). You suggested we walk the park together like old times. I was going to bring your wedding gifts for the occasion; I was willing to hear you out. I never got that chance. You never showed.
Flash forward to this last winter. I received a text from an unknown number. It’s you, S.
Again, I gave you the benefit of the doubt. Again, you seemed apologetic. Wishing to pick up where we once left off. Yet…it is now May. Not another word from you.
So, where does that leave us?
No, there is no “us” anymore. Hasn’t been for quite some time. You both have made that perfectly clear. The question that I should ask is, “Where does that leave me?” And you know what? It leaves me perfectly fine. For as much as I may miss you L and S, I can be happy alone. I don’t need either of you to keep myself afloat. I have enough within my life to bring me joy. I am at peace.
Take care of yourselves and, please, consider what it means to say goodbye. True friends know how to shut the door behind themselves on the way out. You each slammed the door in my face so hard it left a mark upon my cheek. I didn’t deserve that. Nobody does.
Next time you leave, leave gently. Say what needs to be said then lock the door behind you on your way out. No need to haunt someone with unanswered questions or shock them with an abrupt vacancy in their lives either. Simply make a graceful exit. I know you’re each capable of such a feat.
On that note, it is my turn to walk away from the doorstep. I’ve left my key on the counter inside. I bid you both farewell; I hold no grudges. Take care of yourselves, okay? For better or worse, we were all there for each other once. Though strangers now, I do wish you nothing but the best.
Goodbye L and S.
Sincerely,
Jackie
Mom & Me Gaming: Fun Video Games to Play with Mamma
Enjoy a plethora of heartfelt narrative games featuring mother/child leads. All perfect to share with your mom on Mother’s Day weekend.
- Open Roads:
- Tess Devine’s relationship with her mom has never been easy, but they’re about to set out together on a journey into the past that they’ll never forget.
- Ori and the Blind Forest:
- The forest of Nibel is dying. After a powerful storm sets a series of devastating events in motion, an unlikely hero must journey to find his courage and confront a dark nemesis to save his home.
- Venba:
- Venba is a short narrative cooking game, where you play as an Indian mom who immigrates to Canada with her family in the 1980s.
- Endling – Extinction is Forever:
- As the last mother fox on Earth, your cubs need all your care to survive in a merciless world that slowly destroys itself.
- Okami HD:
- Amaterasu, origin of all that is good and mother to us all…. Take on the role of Amaterasu, the Japanese sun goddess who inhabits the form of a legendary white wolf, on a quest to defeat Orochi, an eight-headed demon and tyrannical monster responsible for turning the world of Nippon into a ruined wasteland.
- Rakuen:
- A hospitalized Boy comes to terms with his own story by traveling with his Mom to a beautiful fantasy world; ultimately helping his fellow patients find closure by walking a mile in their shoes.
- Hindsight:
- Hindsight is a narrative exploration game spanning the entirety of a woman’s life, from birth to present day, as she tries to make sense of it all. Revisit her childhood home, sort through personal belongings, and step through windows to memories frozen in time.
- Wayward Strand:
- It’s the summer of 1978, and Casey Beaumaris is trying to make the most of her holidays, when her mum asks her to spend a long weekend helping out at the airborne hospital where she works.
- A Memoir Blue:
- A song from years ago triggers a flood of memories for champion swimmer Miriam. Embark on an evocative journey through her turbulent childhood and the complicated relationship she shared with her devoted mother.
- What Remains of Edith Finch:
- As Edith, you’ll explore the colossal Finch house, searching for stories as she explores her family history and tries to figure out why she’s the last one in her family left alive.
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On this Day in History….
Looking backwards in order to look forward. Knowledge is power; learning is fun.
- 1970 The Beatles released the album Let It Be.
- 2012 American artist Maurice Sendak, who was best known for his illustrated children’s books, died at age 83.
- 1737 English historian Edward Gibbon, who was best known for the book The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire (1776–88), was born in Putney, Surrey.
- 1429 Largely due to the efforts of Joan of Arc, English troops ended their siege of the French city of Orléans, which was the military turning point of the Hundred Years’ War between France and England.
- 1823 “Home! Sweet Home!” by John Howard Payne is 1st sung in London.
- 1835 1st installment of Hans Christian Andersen “Fairy Tales” published by C. A. Reitzel in Copenhagen, Denmark.
- 1899 The Irish Literary Theatre in Dublin opens.
- 1953 WIPB TV channel 49 in Muncie, IN (PBS) begins broadcasting.
- 1958 Classic Hammer horror film “Dracula” film starring Christopher Lee as the eponymous vampire alongside Peter Cushing, directed by Terence Fisher released.
- 1963 1st James Bond film, “Dr. No”, starring Sean Connery, premieres in US.
- 1979 The Cure release their debut album “Three Imaginary Boys” (Boys Don’t Cry in US, Australia).
- 2010 Betty White becomes the oldest “Saturday Night Live” host.
- 2019 Singapore passed anti-fake news laws.
- 1941 Anita O’Day recorded “Let Me Off Uptown” with Gene Krupa and his band.
- 1945 President Truman and Prime minister Churchill declared victory in Europe, celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany.
- 1932 The comic strip character “Goofy” (originally named “Dippy Dawg”) makes his first appearance in the Disney short film “Mickey’s Revue.”
- 1971 The Rolling Stones release their classic album “Sticky Fingers,” featuring hits like “Brown Sugar” and “Wild Horses.”
- 2009 The movie “Star Trek” directed by J.J. Abrams is released, rebooting the popular science fiction franchise.
- 1915 A German submarine sunk the Lusitania, a British ocean liner, indirectly contributing to the entry of the United States into World War I.
- 1911 Japanese director Honda Ishirō, perhaps best known for a series of Godzilla movies, was born in Yamagata prefecture.
- 1861 Rabindranath Tagore, a Bengali poet, short-story writer, song composer, playwright, essayist, and painter who received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913, was born in Calcutta (Kolkata).
- 1711 Scottish philosopher David Hume, known for his philosophical empiricism and skepticism, was born in Edinburgh.
- 1952 Beth Henley, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright (Crimes of the Heart) is born.
- 1940 Peter Benchley, novelist (Jaws, The Deep) is born.
- 1937 Thomas Pynchon, novelist (Gravity’s Rainbow)
A Surprise Just for You!
Before you are five Amazon boxes; each of varying shapes and sizes. You have no idea what any of the boxes contain. You must pick a box however. Which one will you choose? And what treat will you find inside?
Bookstore Browsing Bingo
A how-to guide on crafting, creating, and playing a bookstore themed bingo game. Challenge your friends once the game is ready. See just how many squares everyone can check off during the next book haul.
Determine Bingo Categories:
- Identify different categories that players will aim to complete while browsing the bookstore. These categories can include genres, book formats, specific book features, or even book-related activities.
- Example Categories:
- Genre (e.g., Mystery, Romance, Fantasy)
- Book Format (e.g., Hardcover, Paperback, eBook)
- Book Cover Colors (e.g., Red, Blue, Green)
- Book Themes (e.g., Time Travel, Coming of Age, Adventure)
- Book Features (e.g., New York Times Bestseller, Award-Winning, Staff Picks)
- Bookstore Activities (e.g., Find a Bookstore Cat, Discover a Local Author)
- Seasonal Themes (e.g., Book with a snowy landscape on the cover, A book series set during the Springtime, A hardcover horror novel with a jack-o-lantern on the cover)
- Example Categories:
Create Bingo Cards:
- Design bingo cards with a grid of squares, each containing a different category. You can create custom bingo cards using word processing software or online bingo card generators:
- Determine how many bingo cards you need based on the number of players participating in the game. You can generate multiple bingo cards at once using online generators.
- Decide on the size of your bingo grid. A standard bingo card typically consists of a 5×5 grid, but you can adjust the size based on your preferences.
- Input your chosen bingo categories into the online generator. Each category will correspond to a square on the bingo card. Make sure to include a diverse range of book-related themes, genres, formats, and features.
- Once you’re satisfied with the bingo cards, you can print them out. Make sure you have enough copies for all the players participating in the game.
- Consider offering small prizes for the winners, such as bookmarks, book-themed trinkets, or bookstore gift cards, to make the game more exciting.
Instructions:
- Provide instructions on how to play the game. Explain that players will browse the bookstore to find books that match the categories on their bingo cards. When they find a book that fits a category, they mark that square.
- Let them know how to mark off squares, what constitutes a win (e.g., getting a line, diagonal, or blackout), and any additional rules or guidelines.
- Hand out the bingo cards to the players before starting the game. You can also provide pens, markers, or stickers for players to mark off the squares as they find books that match the categories.
- Determine a time limit for the game to keep it engaging and manageable. Depending on the size of the bookstore and the number of categories, 30 minutes to an hour can be a good starting point.
Meeting Back:
- Once the time limit is up, gather everyone back together to compare bingo cards and declare a winner. Players can share their favorite finds from the bookstore and discuss the books they discovered during the game.
- Select a nearby café, restaurant, or park where participants can gather comfortably after the bingo game. Ensure it’s easily accessible and can accommodate the size of your group.
- Depending on the location of the meetup, consider providing refreshments for participants to enjoy. This can be as simple as coffee and pastries at a café or a picnic-style potluck in the park.
- If the group is large or participants don’t know each other well, consider facilitating icebreaker activities to help everyone get acquainted. This can include book-themed games, discussion prompts, or sharing memorable bookstore experiences.
- Create opportunities for participants to socialize and connect with each other beyond discussing books. Encourage everyone to share a little about themselves, their reading habits, and their favorite genres.
By creating a Bookstore Browsing Bingo game, you can make a trip to the bookstore even more enjoyable and interactive, while encouraging participants to explore new books and genres.
What’s in the Box?
Mystery boxes are all the rage lately. Thrilling yourself with an enigmatic purchase, unaware of the treats it holds, is half the fun. Check out my top picks for fantastic blind swag boxes below.
- SnackAttackCA: Asian Mystery Snack Box
- VintageRainMarket: Vintage Mystery Box
- xMinorOdditiesx: Famous Oddity Mystery Boxes
- BeyondTheTrope: Personalized Blind Date with a Book
- RamenHands: Vintage Cottagecore/Grannycore Mystery Box
- MagicUniqueTreasures: Year You Were Born Trends
- AdventurerEssentials: DnD & RPG Themed Mystery Box
- CPTKILBOURNCOMICS: Comic Book Mystery Box
- Goawayfatman87: Zodiac mystery boxes
- VampireUnicornsEtc: Edgar Allan Poe Mystery Box
- BriTeesShop: Antique Gift Surprise Mystery Items
- AshlinsDelirium: Horror Themed Mystery Box
- VervainAndMoon: Cottage Witch Mystery Boxes
- NeverlandBooksUS: 10 Pounds of Books
- MagickAndMacabreCo: God & Goddess Mystery Box
- KittyKatzVintageCo: Antique Vintage Academia Thrifted Mystery Box
- BentleyArtworks: Art supply mystery bag
- TheBoxesUA: Authentic Ukrainian Snack Box
- MoonlightGlowUk: Shadows and Secrets: The Gothic Mystery Box
- HOWFETCHCO: Goosebumps Tin Mystery Box
- CandCMysteryBox: Dungeons and Dragons Mystery Box
- LovelyPurp: Gamer Mystery Box
- CulturePoppedDesigns: Animation Mystery Box
- NiromeShop: Bookstore Girl Aesthetic
- KawaiiSkoops: Kawaii box
- ASimplerTimeFinds: Vintage Kitchen Mystery Box
Cyberpunk ASMR
Allow the techno beats and synth-wave pop to ignite your imagination. Pretend you’re in a futuristic city surrounded by neon lights, artificial intelligence, and the latest cutting edge technology.
Writing Prompt: Whodunit?
Write a detective story, Sherlock. I'm sure you're up to the task!
Future Frontiers: Exploring the Latest Advancements in Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has advanced yet again. Take a glimpse into the future …
How to Say Good-Bye
A brief short story/essay about my experiences with loss.
Escape to Paradise: Tropical Reads Fitting for a Staycation
Tropical themed books to read during a staycation summer.
¡Viva los Libros!
Cinco de Mayo is this Sunday, May 5th. It commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Hosting a bookish Cinco de Mayo party can be a fun way to celebrate Mexican culture as well as Latino literature. Here’s a guide on how to host such an event:
Invitations:
- Choose a Theme: Decide on the overall theme for your invitations. Consider combining elements of Cinco de Mayo celebrations with bookish motifs.
- You can design the invites to look like book covers or incorporate Mexican motifs and colors.
- You can find free or paid clip-art and illustrations online.
- For physical invitations, use cardstock or paper in colors that reflect the vibrant spirit of Cinco de Mayo, such as red, green, yellow, and blue.
- For digital invitations, you can use design software like Canva or Adobe Express to create custom designs.
- Include details such as date, time, location, and any special instructions (e.g., bringing a favorite book to exchange).
- Write a catchy headline that reflects the bookish Cinco de Mayo theme, such as “¡Viva los Libros! Join us for a Bookish Cinco de Mayo Fiesta.”
- Provide any additional instructions, such as bringing a favorite book for a book exchange or dressing in book-themed attire.
- You can design the invites to look like book covers or incorporate Mexican motifs and colors.
Decorations:
- Set the Scene: Create a festive atmosphere with colorful decorations that reflect the spirit of Cinco de Mayo.
- Use vibrant colors such as red, green, yellow, and blue, reminiscent of traditional Mexican fiestas.
- Hang papel picado (decorative paper banners) around the party area for a festive touch.
- Incorporate bookish elements like book stacks, literary quotes printed on banners or posters, and book-themed centerpieces.
- Use book covers as posters or wall art. Print out images of book covers and frame them to display around the room.
- Print out quotes from famous Mexican authors or books and display them on the walls or tables.
- Write book-related quotes on colorful cards and hang them from strings across the party area.
Book Exchange:
- Book Exchange Activities: Encourage guests to mingle, socialize, and discuss their favorite books.
- Provide opportunities for guests to share why they chose the books they brought or why they love their favorite books.
- Set up a cozy reading nook where guests can browse through their exchanged books or share their favorite reads with each other.
- Set up book displays or book stacks as decorations, along with sombreros, maracas, and mini piñatas.
- Host book trivia games, literary charades, or a book-themed quiz.
- Literary Trivia:
- Create a trivia game featuring questions about Mexican literature, authors, and books with Mexican settings or themes.
- Divide guests into teams and ask questions related to famous Mexican authors, classic Mexican literature, or well-known Mexican literary works.
- Provide small prizes for the winning team.
- Book Title Charades:
- Have guests act out book titles while others guess the title.
- Choose books with Mexican or Latin American themes, or simply popular books that guests are likely to know.
- Write the book titles on slips of paper and place them in a bowl. Each player takes turns drawing a slip and acting out the book title without speaking.
- Guess the First Line:
- Create a game where guests have to guess the opening lines of famous books with Mexican or Latin American settings.
- Read out the first lines of books aloud, and guests have to write down the title of the book they think it’s from.
- The guest with the most correct guesses wins a prize.
- Literary Trivia:
- Provide opportunities for guests to share why they chose the books they brought or why they love their favorite books.
Book-inspired Menu:
- Serve “Lit” Dishes: Plan a menu featuring Mexican-inspired dishes and drinks with a literary twist.
- Serve dishes mentioned in favorite books or those inspired by Mexican cuisine, such as tacos, nachos, quesadillas, guacamole, salsa, and churros.
- Create fun labels for each dish, incorporating bookish puns or references.
- For example, “Harry Potter’s Queso Fundido: Cheesy Magic in Every Bite” or “Verde Gables Enchiladas: Anne Shirley’s Favorite Comfort Food.”
- Create fun labels for each dish, incorporating bookish puns or references.
- Create themed cocktails like “Margarita Mockingbird“ (a play on the classic margarita) or “Tequila Mockingbird” (a literary-themed cocktail book by Tim Federle).
- Serve classic margaritas made with tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Offer variations such as mango or strawberry margaritas.
- Serve dishes mentioned in favorite books or those inspired by Mexican cuisine, such as tacos, nachos, quesadillas, guacamole, salsa, and churros.
Party Favors:
- Fill Gift Bags Worthy of a Fiesta: For a bookish Cinco de Mayo party, you can give your guests party favors that combine elements of Mexican culture with a love for books.
- Miniature Piñatas:
- Give guests small piñatas filled with bookish treats like bookmarks, chocolate candies, or miniature notebooks.
- You can find or make piñatas in shapes like books, cacti, or sombreros.
- Literary Tea or Coffee Blends:
- Give guests sample packs of Mexican-inspired tea or coffee blends, with names like “Cinco de Mayo Morning Brew” or “Tea of the Tacos.”
- Include a small note explaining the blend’s inspiration or ingredients.
- Personalized Bookplates:
- Create custom bookplates for guests to stick inside their books. Design them with Mexican motifs or literary illustrations.
- Include guests’ names on the bookplates for a personalized touch.
- Mexican-themed Bookmarks with Seeds:
- Provide guests with bookmarks embedded with seeds that can be planted to grow Mexican herbs or flowers, such as cilantro, chili peppers, or marigolds.
- Include instructions for planting and caring for the seeds.
- Miniature Piñatas:
By combining elements of Mexican culture with your love of books, you can create a unique and memorable Cinco de Mayo celebration that your guests will love. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture the fun memories!
Gifts for Well-Read Moms
Mother’s Day will be here before we know it. To help treat your mom to something special, I created a new Pinterest board full of goodies and ideas. Visit the site page to learn more.
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The Reader’s Take Denver Fiasco
During April 18 thru 21 bibliophiles rushed a poorly disorganized author’s event. Hosted by bestselling romance author Lisa Renee Jones, the “Reader’s Take Denver” conference was marred by invited presenters pulling out, hours-long lines, and swag bags that never arrived. It also had clueless staff members and understaffed security.
For more information about this disastrous event, please read the article link below. You can likewise check out Austin Green’s video breaking down the entire “Frye” festival dumpster fire of a gathering.
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Chew On This: Podcasts to Sink Your Teeth Into
An arrangement of funny satirical podcasts.
We both know you want to subscribe. Seriously, what are you waiting for?
The Outdoor Reading Challenge
Sunny days are here again; the world beckons to be explored. In celebration of the weather, try reading in a new outdoor setting every day. Do you accept the challenge? If so, pack a bag full of books and come with me on this adventure.
- Sit in a shady spot at your local park. Touch some grass.
- Pack a beach towel, umbrella, sunscreen, and head to the beach.
- Take a hike then sit on a rock or a log among the trees.
- Get in touch with your inner child by reading on a swing set.
- Climb a tree to discover a new perspective.
- Unfurl a tent in a secluded camping spot and read.
- Grab your favorite floaty, so you can lounge around in the pool.
- Meditate outside in the nearby sand dunes with your favorite book.
- Kayak into the middle of a lake to read a biography.
- Read a horror anthology by a campfire at dusk.
- Smell the flowers in a botanical garden while reading.
- Choose outdoor seating at a beloved cafe. Order yourself a treat and a soothing beverage. Read.
- Sit beside a koi pond and read to the fishes.
- Feed the ducks while you indulge in a poetry book.
- Suspend your imagination with rock climbing and a mystery novel.
- Visit the zoo, see the animals, and pick a quiet spot to read.
- Lay down in a field of wild flowers with a good book.
- Roller blade around town while listening to an audio book.
- Pack a picnic lunch and a large novel to read at the park.
- Go stargazing in a remote area of your hometown. Grab comfortable blankets, a portable reading light/lantern, and graphic novel too. Time to read beneath the stars!
- While geocaching for treasure, take a break outdoors in a spot of your choosing. Make sure you have an adventure series to delve into as well.
- Grab a thermos of coffee or hot tea, binoculars, and a new novel the next time you go bird watching.
- Tune into an audio book of a classic novel while fly fishing.
- Forage for mushrooms with a lovely cookbook.
- After a day at the waterpark, lounge beside a wave pool in a comfortable chair. Bring an adorable meetcute book to pass the time.
Synonyms: Words to Use for “Cleaning”
In the spirit of springtime tidying, here are a slew of other words to use when describing the act of cleaning.
- Maintained
- Laundered
- Tidying
- Cleansed
- Spotless
- Decontaminated
- Sterilized
- Unsullied
- Uncluttered
- Washing
- Refine
- Deodorize
- Refresh
- Orderly
- Well-kept
- Spruce
- Trim
- Shipshape
- Spick-and-span
- Fix up
- Straighten
- Groom
- Organize
- Remove
- Cleansing
- Purging
- Scrubbing
- Scour
- Mucking out
- Freshening
- Housecleaning
- Housekeeping
- Neatening
- Turning out
- Arranging
- Codifying
- Disposing
- Rearrange
- Shifting
- Polish
- Fumigate
- Purify
- Swab
- Dust
- Unclog
- Squeaky-clean
- Unsoiled
- Bleach
Career Ending Moves: Cautionary Tale YouTube Videos
Ever get second hand embarrassment? I do. All the time. These content creators and writers certainly made me facepalm recently. Watch the videos, learn what not to do as a creator, oh, and prepare to grimace.
Art Article Articles book recs Books Christmas Creative Writing Etsy Fandom Fantasy Fun Funny Gif Goodreads Halloween Harry Potter History Holiday Horror Humor Illustration Letterboxd Link Literature Love Merch Movie recs Movies Music News Photography Pinterest Poetry Pop Culture Quote Quotes Reading Spotify Tumblr Vocabulary Writers Writing Writing Advice Writing Prompt Youtube
Harry Potter T.V. Series in Development
In 2026 the “Boy Who Lived” is slated to return to the screen. The streaming platform Max has green lit a television adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s beloved children’s series. (There is even a rumor it will run for ten years).
For more on this developing story, check out the Forbes article below:
Baldurian ASMR
Baldur’s Gate 3 recently made gaming history: Larian Studios has won every major Game of the Year award. To celebrate, I thought why not make three immersive BG3 playlists? Transport yourself to the world of Baldur’s Gate with these character driven soundtracks.
April Showers Bring May Flowers…
… and books. Enjoy novels with rainy day covers.
- Weather Girl by Rachel Lynn Solomon
- Fifty Words for Rain by Asha Lemmie
- The Colors of the Rain by R.L. Toalson
- Rain Rising by Courtne Comrie
- Phantom Limbs by Paula Garner
- First & Then by Emma Mills
- This Time It’s Real by Ann Liang
- Dancing in the Rain by Lynn Joseph
- Made You Up by Francesca Zappia
- Shouting at the Rain by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
- Rain Reign by Ann M. Martin
- Finding Gene Kelly by Torie Jean
- Funny Feelings by Tarah Dewitt
- The Rain in Sapphire by Kayla Rose
- Rain Delay by Allie Marie
- Kissed by the Rain by Claudia Winter
- Always On My Mind by Beth Moran
- The Garden of Small Beginnings by Abbi Waxman
- Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
- The Weight of Water by Sarah Crossan
- One Plus One Equals Blue by Mary Jane Auch
- Maya’s Laws of Love by Alina Khawaja
- Good Bad Girl by Alice Feeney
- Saving Rain by Kelsey Kingsley
- The Probability of Everything by Sarah Everett
“A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.” ― Maya Angelou
Spring Cleaning for Your Bookshelf
Tips for organizing and refreshing your reading space.
Take Everything Off the Shelves:
- Start by removing all the books and items from your bookshelves. Place them on a clean surface nearby, such as a table or the floor. Use a clean and flat surface nearby, such as a table or the floor, where you can temporarily place your books. Make sure the surface is large enough to accommodate all your books.
- Gather supplies like a clean microfiber cloth, a soft brush, and any cleaning solutions you may need to dust or clean your books.
- Prepare boxes or bins for sorting your books into different categories, such as keep, donate/sell, and discard.
- Avoid pulling books out of the shelf by gripping the top of the spine. This can cause the spine to weaken or even tear. Instead, grasp the book firmly from the sides or bottom.
- Take this opportunity to check each book for dust or dirt. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently dust off the covers and spines. If a book is particularly dirty, you can use a damp cloth or cleaning solution to wipe it clean.
- As you remove books, sort them into categories based on your reorganizing plan. Separate books you want to keep, books you want to donate or sell, and any books you want to discard.
- If you have delicate or valuable books, handle them with extra care. Consider wrapping them in acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to protect them during the reorganizing process.
Dust and Clean the Shelves:
- Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to remove dust and debris from the shelves. Wipe down the shelves with a damp cloth or cleaning spray to ensure they are clean and ready for your books.
- If your bookshelves are freestanding and not built-in, vacuum or sweep the area around and under the bookshelves to remove any dust and debris that may have accumulated.
- Depending on the material of your shelves, use an appropriate cleaning method:
- Wooden Shelves:
- Wipe down wooden shelves with a soft, damp cloth or a wood cleaner. Avoid using too much water, as it can damage the wood. Dry the shelves thoroughly with a clean cloth afterward.
- Glass Shelves:
- Clean glass shelves with glass cleaner or a solution of water and vinegar. Spray the cleaner onto a cloth, rather than directly onto the glass, to prevent streaking. Dry the glass with a lint-free cloth to avoid leaving behind any residue.
- Metal Shelves:
- Metal shelves can be wiped down with a damp cloth. For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent or metal cleaner. Dry the shelves thoroughly afterward to prevent rust.
- Laminate or Plastic Shelves:
- Wipe down laminate or plastic shelves with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, use a mild detergent or all-purpose cleaner. Dry the shelves thoroughly afterward.
- Wooden Shelves:
Organize Your Books:
- Before putting items back on the shelves, take the opportunity to reorganize and rearrange. Consider organizing books by genre, author, color, or size. Place heavier items on lower shelves to prevent the bookcase from becoming top-heavy.
- Decide on an organizational system that works for you. You can organize your books alphabetically by author, by genre, by color, or by theme.
- By Author:
- Step 1: Collect all your books from around the house and place them in one central location.
- Step 2: Arrange your books alphabetically by the author’s last name. Start with the first letter of the author’s last name and then alphabetize by the first letter of their first name if necessary.
- Step 3: Once sorted, place the books back on your bookshelves, making sure to keep all books by the same author together.
- By Genre:
- Step 1: Sort your books into categories based on genre. Common genres include fiction, non-fiction, mystery, romance, science fiction, fantasy, biography, history, etc.
- Step 2: Further Subdivide (Optional): If you have a large collection, you can further subdivide genres. For example, within fiction, you might have categories like literary fiction, historical fiction, and contemporary fiction.
- Step 3: Arrange on Shelves: Place books from each genre or subgenre together on your bookshelves. You can arrange them alphabetically by author within each genre if you like.
- By Color:
- Step 1: Sort your books by color, grouping together books with similar or complementary colors.
- Step 2: Once sorted, arrange the books on your shelves by color. You can create a rainbow effect by transitioning from one color to the next or group books of similar colors together.
- By Theme:
- Step 1: Identify Themes: Determine the themes or topics of your books. Themes could include travel, nature, cooking, self-help, etc.
- Step 2: Sort your books into groups based on their themes.
- Step 3: Place books with similar themes together on your bookshelves. You can arrange them alphabetically by author within each theme or simply place them in a way that looks visually appealing.
- By Author:
- Tips:
- Bookends can help keep your books upright and organized, especially if you’re arranging them by color or theme.
- Consider labeling your shelves with the genre, color, or theme to make it easier to find books.
- Leave some empty space on your shelves to accommodate new additions to your collection.
- Periodically reassess your organization system and make adjustments as needed to accommodate changes in your collection or your preferences.
Assess and Refresh Decor:
- Assessing and refreshing the decor on your bookshelf is a great way to breathe new life into your space and showcase your personal style. Here’s how to assess and refresh decor on your bookshelf:
- Start by removing all decorative items from your bookshelf. Take everything off, including vases, picture frames, sculptures, plants, and any other decor pieces.
- Step back and take a good look at your bookshelf. Assess the size, layout, and available space on each shelf. Consider the height and width of the shelves and how they will accommodate different decor items.
- Group your decor items into categories based on size, shape, color, or theme. This will help you visualize how they will look together on the shelves.
- Experiment with different combinations of decor items to create visual interest. Mix tall and short items, round and angular shapes, and textures to add depth and dimension to your bookshelf.
- Aim for balance and symmetry when arranging your decor items. Distribute items evenly across the shelves, and vary the placement of items to create a harmonious look.
- Integrate books into your decor arrangement. Stack books horizontally or vertically to create platforms for displaying smaller decor items. You can also intersperse books with decorative objects to add visual interest.
- Incorporate plants or flowers to add a touch of freshness and color to your bookshelf. Place small potted plants or vases of flowers strategically among your decor items.
- Display framed photos, artwork, or prints on your bookshelf to personalize the space. Mix family photos with art pieces or inspirational quotes for a personal touch.
- Once you’re happy with the arrangement, step back and evaluate the overall look of your bookshelf. Make any final adjustments as needed to ensure a cohesive and balanced display.
- Allow for some empty space on your bookshelf to prevent it from looking cluttered. Empty space can help create balance and allow your decor items to stand out.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different arrangements and adjust as needed. Rearrange items until you find a layout that you love and that reflects your style and personality.
By following these steps, you can spring clean your bookshelf effectively, creating a tidy and organized space to showcase your favorite books and reading materials.
Poetry for Mother Nature
A list of thought provoking poems for naturalists.
- Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening by Robert Frost
- A Bird Came Down The Walk by Emily Dickinson
- The Brook by Alfred Tennyson
- The Glory Of The Garden by Rudyard Kipling
- Spring by Edna St. Vincent Millay
- Loveliest of Trees by A. E. Housman
- Wind On The Hill by A. A. Milne
- Our Blessings by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Vision by Jessie B. Rittenhouse
- Our Mother Earth by Shweta Banerjee
- The Invitation by Doug W Benson
- The Rose That Grew From Concrete by Tupac Shakur
- The Tree Agreement by Elise Paschen
- There Will Come Soft Rains by Sara Teasdale
- Wild Pansy by Lisa Bellamy
- What I Would Like to Grow in My Garden by Katherine Riegel
- Hermitage by Joseph Fasano
- To the Cardinal, Attacking His Reflection in the Window by Leah Naomi Green
- Nature Aria by Yi Lei
- Mulberry Fields by Lucille Clifton
Bard’s Beauties: Modern Looks for Shakespeare’s Leading Ladies
Tagged As You Like It, Beatrice, Desdemona, Fashion, Heroines, Juliet Capulet, Katherina Minola, Leading Ladies, Link, Merchandise, Much Ado About Nothing, Othello, Outfits, Pop Culture, Romeo and Juliet, Rosalind, Shakespeare, ShopLook, The Taming of the Shrew, Trends, William Shakespeare
Relax, Read, Repeat
Spa day items for bookworms. Go ahead, indulge. You’ve earned it!
Pages in the Park: How to Host the Perfect Book Picnic
Having a book picnic is a delightful way to enjoy the outdoors while indulging in your love of reading. Here’s how to organize and enjoy a book picnic:
Choose a Location:
- Select a picturesque outdoor location for your book picnic. This could be a local park, botanical garden, beach, lakeside, or even your own backyard.
- Consider the level of crowds and noise at the picnic location, especially if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful setting.
- If you prefer a more secluded and intimate picnic experience, look for lesser-known or off-the-beaten-path locations.
- Look for a spot with plenty of shade, comfortable seating options, and a tranquil ambiance. Camp out under trees, gazebos, pavilions, or shaded picnic areas where you can set up your picnic blanket or mat and escape the heat.
Pack Your Essentials:
- Bring a comfortable blanket or picnic mat to sit on. Make sure it’s large enough to accommodate yourself, your companions, and your picnic supplies.
- Pack a picnic basket or cooler with your favorite snacks and drinks. Consider including a variety of finger foods, sandwiches, fruit, cheese, crackers, and beverages such as lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water.
- Don’t forget to pack essentials such as napkins, utensils, plates, cups, and a bottle opener if needed. You may also want to bring a trash bag or container for collecting any waste.
Choose Your Books:
- Consider bringing a mix of genres and formats to suit different moods and preferences. Whether it’s a novel, poetry anthology, magazine, or audio-book, choose titles that you’re excited to read or explore.
- Choose books that complement the mood and atmosphere of the outdoor environment.
- For example, if you’re picnicking in a tranquil garden, you might opt for books with themes of nature, gardening, or mindfulness.
- Short stories, essays, or poetry collections are perfect for leisurely reading during a picnic. They offer bite-sized literary experiences that you can enjoy in between bites of food or while lounging on your picnic blanket. Look for anthologies or compilations featuring diverse authors and themes.
- Opt for books that are lightweight and easy to transport, especially if you’ll be carrying them to your picnic spot. Paperbacks, for instance, won’t weigh you down and are convenient to pack in your picnic basket or bag.
Set Up Your Picnic Area:
- Lay out your picnic blanket or mat in a spacious and level area. Choose a spot with enough space to accommodate yourself, your picnic companions, and your picnic supplies comfortably. Arrange the blanket so that it’s flat and free of wrinkles or bumps.
- Arrange your seating area with comfortable cushions, throw pillows, or outdoor chairs to make your picnic spot inviting and comfortable. Place the seating around the perimeter of the blanket or mat to create a cozy and intimate space for reading and lounging.
- Display your books on the blanket or nearby surface in an organized and accessible manner. Arrange them in a stack or spread them out so that you can easily browse and select your next reading choice.
Enjoy Your Picnic:
- Once everything is set up, relax and enjoy your book picnic! Indulge in your favorite snacks and drinks while immersing yourself in the joy of reading.
- Take breaks between chapters to stretch, explore your surroundings, or engage in conversation with your companions. You can also bring a small portable speaker to play soft background music if desired.
- Don’t forget to capture memories of your book picnic with photos or sketches. Document the beautiful scenery, delicious food, and cherished reading moments to look back on and reminisce.
By following these steps, you can create a memorable and enjoyable book picnic experience with friends. Combine the pleasures of reading with the beauty of the outdoors to create unforgettable memories. Happy picnicking and happy reading everyone!
Unlocking the Beauty of Poetry
Poetry has the power to evoke profound emotions through its carefully crafted words and imagery. Let us delve into the art of analyzing poetry, by exploring the lyrics of “I Am Mine,” by Pearl Jam front man Eddie Vedder .
A poem can encompass various elements that contribute to its unique form and expressive power. Here are some of the key poetic elements found in “I Am Mine”:
Form and Structure:
The arrangement of lines, stanzas, and verses contributes to the overall structure of a poem. Different poetic forms, such as sonnets, haiku, and free verse, have distinct rules and conventions that influence the organization and presentation of ideas in the poem. Eddie Vedder has seven stanzas in his poem “I Am Mine.” The stanzas within poetry form a unit, or coupling, within the larger structure of the poem itself. Stanzas are often separated from each other by spaces or line breaks.
The number of lines in a stanza, as well as the rhyme scheme and meter, can vary depending on the poet’s intentions and the specific form of the poem. The line breaks found in this particular song also vary; the stanzas range from four to five lines. This was more than likely intentional. Notice that when read aloud the flow of the words are reminiscent of waves crashing onto the shore. It is meant to sound smooth. Vedder, our narrator, wants the lines to feel secure like a lullaby or a warm hug.
Rhyme Scheme:
Rhyme occurs when words share similar sounds, typically at the end of lines in a poem. Poets use rhyme to create patterns and enhance the musical quality of their verse. The rhyme scheme refers to the pattern of rhymes within a poem, often represented using letters to indicate matching sounds (e.g., AABB, ABAB).
This particular ballad favors end rhymes. An end rhyme scheme occurs whenever the last syllables or words in two or more lines of a poem rhyme with each other. It is one of the most common types of rhyme in poetry; often used to create musicality, rhythm, and structure within a poem. Stanza I of “I Am Mine” is a prime example of this. Vedder writes, “They’re all standing in line,/Faithing and hoping to buy themselves time/Me, I figure as each breath goes by/ I only own my mind.“
Another preferred couplet of Vedder’s is slant rhyme. In Stanza IV, you’ll find the following lines: “The ocean is full ’cause everyone’s crying,/The full moon is looking for friends at high tide,/ The sorrow grows bigger when the sorrow’s denied/…” What the musician penned, creates sounds of two words that are similar but not identical. Unlike perfect rhyme, where the vowel sounds and ending consonant sounds match exactly (e.g., “moon” and “spoon”), slant rhyme involves words that share similar consonant sounds or vowel sounds, or both, but differ slightly in pronunciation.
Slant rhyme is often used by poets to create a sense of connection. The Pearl Jam lead singer accomplished just that by conveying a link between the images of the moon and sorrow through “denied” and “tide.” Eddie Vedder likewise allowed for a deep sense of connection between the words to form for the listener. He allowed for the words themselves to speak of their despairing nature by utilizing the sonorous alteration that slant rhyme provides.
Figurative Language:
Unlike literal language, (which conveys meaning directly and explicitly) figurative language relies on comparisons, associations, and symbolism to evoke deeper layers of meaning and engage the reader’s imagination. Figurative language includes similes, metaphors, personification, and symbolism. It adds depth and richness to a poem by conveying meanings beyond the literal interpretation of the words written.
“I Am Mine,” for instance, favors the figurative language device of personification to captivate an audience. What does it mean to personify something exactly? Well, it is when a poet attributes human characteristics or qualities to non-human entities, such as animals, objects, or abstract concepts. For example, “The full moon is looking for friends at hightide” is giving the moon an extremely relatable human emotion — loneliness.
The moon isn’t simply a planet anymore. Oh, no. It is a lonely soul searching for company against the long drawn out nights. Relatable, right? Exactly right. Precisely what Vedder was banking on. He wants us to identify with our longing for kinship, especially if it pulls on memories of past solitary nights spent alone. Such a choice in wording grips the listener into identifying with the moon (or, rather, our poet) on a personal level. It allows poets to engage more deeply with us through their text.
In comparison, “I Am Mine” also uses vivid imagery to captivate readers. Phrases such as “The ocean is full ’cause everyone’s crying” and “The North is to South what the clock is to time” makes use of descriptive language. These are words that appeal to an audience’s sensory experiences. Visual imagery allows readers to visualize the setting, characters, and actions depicted in the poem whereas chirping of birds or the roar of waves creates a sense of atmosphere and mood, etc.
Through carefully crafted phrases, a well written poem can paint a picture using only language as its vessel for our imagination to set sail upon. It allows us to see, hear, taste, touch, and smell the story as if we were traveling beside Eddie Vedder while he sings to us. You almost feel claustrophobic after hearing, “The selfish, they’re all standing in line…” As if you’re marching along with the hopeless bound to destination nowhere too.
Theme:
Essentially, Vedder is pleading with fans to stay true to themselves, or to “keep their heads” in times of sorrow. Do not despair or change who you are to survive in a world that, at times, might seem unforgiving. The entire attitude of “I Am Mine” is one of defiance; no matter what the circumstance Eddie will stay true to himself. He likewise encourages us to do the same: Be brave, courageous, and always honest.
Oftentimes poets may reflect on themes related to identity, self-awareness, and personal growth when crafting a story. In the case of “I Am Mine,” Eddie Vedder focused on this very theme. He wrote a poem/song that explored questions of individuality and societal belonging. He challenged us to combat our loneliness by loving ourselves and, perhaps, each other. As Vedder wrote, “We’re all different behind the eyes/ There’s no need to hide.” I, for one, think he’s right. We will be safe tonight.
To read or not to read?
But with these book recs, the answer is clear! Please, enjoy these Shakespearean inspired books. May you have a merry good time with these female centered leads.
- Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler
- Fair Rosaline by Natasha Solomons
- Queen Hereafter by Isabelle Schuler
- Enter Three Witches by Caroline B. Cooney
- Juliet Immortal by Stacey Jay
- The Last True Poets of the Sea by Julia Drake
- The Fool’s Girl by Celia Rees
- Ophelia by Lisa M. Klein
- Desdemona by Toni Morrison, Peter Sellars (Foreword), Rokia Traoré (Creator)
- The Steep & Thorny Way by Cat Winters
- Exit, Pursued by a Bear by E.K. Johnston
- Foul Is Fair by Hannah Capin
- As I Descended by Robin Talley
- We That Are Young: A novel by Preti Taneja
- Enter the Body by Joy McCullough
- Tigers, Not Daughters by Samantha Mabry
- Take Her Down by Lauren Emily Whalen
- Learwife by J.R. Thorp
- Juliet’s Nurse by Lois Leveen
- Miranda in Milan by Katharine Duckett
- Foul Lady Fortune by Chloe Gong
- Under a Dancing Star by Laura Wood
- The Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown
- Juliet by Anne Fortier
- The Third Witch by Rebecca Reisert
‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.’
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– William Shakespeare, As You Like It
YouTube Roundup
Yet another cavalcade of videos for your viewing pleasure.
Writing Prompt: Whodunit?
Write a detective story, Sherlock. I'm sure you're up to the task!
Future Frontiers: Exploring the Latest Advancements in Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has advanced yet again. Take a glimpse into the future …
Art Article Articles book recs Books Christmas Creative Writing Etsy Fandom Fantasy Fun Funny Gif Goodreads Halloween Harry Potter History Holiday Horror Humor Illustration Letterboxd Link Literature Love Merch Movie recs Movies Music News Photography Pinterest Poetry Pop Culture Quote Quotes Reading Spotify Tumblr Vocabulary Writers Writing Writing Advice Writing Prompt Youtube
Bibliotherapy Bliss: Books to De-Stress and Unwind
A compendium of literature to help you unclutter your mind. Namaste.
- Art for Self-Care: Create Powerful, Healing Art by Listening to Your Inner Voice by Jessica Swift
- Wild Words: Rituals, Routines, and Rhythms for Braving the Writer’s Path by Nicole Gulotta
- Embrace Your Weird: Face Your Fears and Unleash Creativity by Felicia Day
- The Courage to Create by Rollo May
- The Comfort Book by Matt Haig
- Breath as Prayer: Calm Your Anxiety, Focus Your Mind, and Renew Your Soul by Jennifer Tucker
- First, We Make the Beast Beautiful: A New Story About Anxiety by Sarah Wilson
- Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark by Julia Baird
- A Sloth’s Guide to Mindfulness by Ton Mak
- It’s OK to Feel Things Deeply by Carissa Potter
- Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life by Beth Kempton
- The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
- Navigate Your Stars by Jesmyn Ward, Gina Triplett (Illustrator)
- Note to Self: The Secrets of Calm by Rebekah Ballagh
- The Cat Who Taught Zen by James Norbury
- Journey to the Heart: Daily Meditations on the Path to Freeing Your Soul by Melody Beattie
- Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach, Russell Munson (Illustrator)
- Cozy: The Art of Arranging Yourself in the World by Isabel Gillies
- Njuta: Enjoy, Delight In: The Swedish Art of Savoring the Moment by Niki Brantmark
- Lightly: How to Live a Simple, Serene, and Stress-free Life by Francine Jay
- Everyday Self-Care: The little book that helps you take care of YOU. by Dawn Bates (Compiler)
- Getting Back to Happy: Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Reality, and Turn Your Trials into Triumphs by Marc Chernoff, Angel Chernoff
- The Moth Presents: A Point of Beauty: True Stories of Holding On and Letting Go by The Moth (editor)
- The cicada and the bird: The usefulness of a useless philosophy. Chuang Tzu’s ancient wisdom translated for modern life by Christopher Tricker
- Reasons Not to Worry: How to Be Stoic in Chaotic Times by Brigid Delaney
“The mind can go in a thousand directions, but on this beautiful path, I walk in peace. With each step, the wind blows. With each step, a flower blooms.”
― Thich Nhat Hanh
Verse Vibrations
April is National Poetry Month. Let nature take its course, and add poetry to your book club! In this blog post, we’ll uncover the transformative conversations sonnets spark among friends.
Selecting Poems for Group Reading: Discuss strategies for selecting poems that are well-suited for group reading and discussion. Consider factors such as length, theme, accessibility, and diversity of voices to ensure an engaging and inclusive experience for all participants.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere: Explore ways to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for group poetry readings and discussions. Consider factors such as venue selection, seating arrangements, refreshments, and icebreaker activities to foster a sense of community and connection among participants.
The Power of Voice: Reflect on the transformative power of reading poetry aloud and the impact of voice, tone, and rhythm on the interpretation and appreciation of the poem. Encourage participants to experiment with different reading styles and techniques to bring the poem to life.
Facilitating Meaningful Discussions: Offer tips and techniques for facilitating meaningful discussions about poetry in a group setting. Provide discussion prompts, questions, and activities to encourage participants to share their interpretations, insights, and personal connections to the poem.
Exploring Themes and Motifs: Delve into the themes, motifs, and literary devices present in the selected poems. Encourage participants to explore the deeper layers of meaning and symbolism, uncovering the richness and complexity of the poetic text.
Connecting Poetry to Personal Experience: Encourage participants to reflect on how the themes and imagery of the poem resonate with their own lives and experiences. Share personal anecdotes, memories, and emotions evoked by the poem, fostering empathy and connection among group members.
Fostering Creativity and Expression: Create opportunities for participants to engage creatively with the poetry through writing exercises, artistic expression, or collaborative projects. Encourage experimentation, playfulness, and self-expression as participants explore their own poetic voices.
Building Community Through Poetry: Reflect on the role of poetry in building community, fostering empathy, and promoting dialogue across differences. Explore how group poetry readings and discussions can create spaces for connection, healing, and transformation among participants.
As we share our love of spoken word aloud, as a community we can discover how the power of shared verse inspires and unites us. Truly, reading, discussing, and celebrating poetry, creates spaces for connection, creativity, and reflection in our book clubs. Doing so enriches our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. So let us gather our voices, open our hearts, and embark on this poetic journey together, one verse at a time.
From the blog
News Roundup: The Latest in Literati News
Compiling the most buzzworthy stories in the publishing and pop culture industry.
Goodreads Giveaways: April 2024
This week’s theme: Books that mirror all things associated with Springtime and renewal.
- Swap and Smell the Roses (The Swap, 1) by Karen Booth
- Eddie Winston Is Looking for Love by Marianne Cronin
- The Cottage Around the Corner by D.L. Soria
- The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
- Bite by Bite: Nourishments and Jamborees by Aimee Nezhukumatathil
- Bear by Julia Phillips
- A Northern Light in Provence by Elizabeth Birkelund
- The French Ingredient: A Memoir by Jane Bertch
- The Art of Living in Season: A Year of Reflections for Everyday Saints by Sylvie Vanhoozer
- The Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan
- Wild Life: Finding My Purpose in an Untamed World by Rae Wynn-Grant
- Pack Light: A Journey to Find Myself by Shilletha Curtis
- The Oxherd Boy: Parables of Love, Compassion, and Community by Regina Linke
- Oye by Melissa Mogollon
- Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell
- The Garden Against Time: In Search of a Common Paradise by Olivia Laing
- Maria: A Novel of Maria von Trapp by Michelle Moran
- Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club by J. Ryan Stradal
- The Year of What If by Phaedra Patrick
- Love at First Book by Jenn McKinlay
- Tell It to Me Singing by Tita Ramírez
- A Storybook Wedding by K.J. Micciche
- Earls Trip by Jenny Holiday
- The Teller of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong
- The Ballad of Darcy and Russell by Morgan Matson
Springtime Sensations: Writing Vivid Descriptions of the Season’s Sights, Sounds, and Scents
To commemorate Springtime’s swift arrival, I’ve compiled a few highlights for writers on how to embrace the natural splendor of the season within their own writing.
Sight:
Sight, as a sense, plays a crucial role in writing for several reasons:
- Creating Vivid Imagery:
- Allows readers to visualize scenes, characters, and settings. By vividly describing visual details, writers can paint a picture in the reader’s mind, bringing the story to life.
- Establishing Setting:
- Descriptions of landscapes, buildings, and other visual elements help establish the setting of a story. Readers can better understand where the action is taking place and can immerse themselves in the world of the narrative.
- Developing Characters:
- Writers use visual cues to develop characters, including their appearance, gestures, and expressions. These details help readers form mental images of the characters; understand their personalities, emotions, and motivations.
- Setting the Mood and Atmosphere:
- Writers can use descriptions of lighting, colors, and weather to create a specific ambiance, whether it’s ominous, tranquil, or exhilarating.
- Conveying Symbolism and Metaphor:
- Visual imagery can be rich in symbolism and metaphor, adding depth and complexity to a story. Objects, landscapes, and even colors can carry symbolic meaning, enhancing the thematic resonance of the narrative.
- Guiding the Reader’s Attention:
- By highlighting certain objects or features, writers can subtly guide the reader’s interpretation of events and themes.
- Enhancing Emotional Impact:
- Whether it’s the beauty of a sunset, the devastation of a war-torn landscape, or the intimacy of a character’s gaze, sight can evoke a wide range of emotions.
- Creating Tension and Suspense:
- Descriptions of eerie shadows, foreboding landscapes, or menacing figures can heighten the sense of anticipation and unease, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
How to visualize Spring?
- Exercise:
- Take a nature walk in a park or garden during springtime. Pay close attention to the colors, textures, and movements around you. Make notes of the sights that stand out the most.
- Example: “The cherry blossoms erupted in a riot of pink and white, their delicate petals dancing on the breeze like confetti. Fresh green shoots emerged from the earth, reaching eagerly toward the sun. Bees flitted from flower to flower, their golden bodies shimmering in the dappled light.”
- Take a nature walk in a park or garden during springtime. Pay close attention to the colors, textures, and movements around you. Make notes of the sights that stand out the most.
Sound:
Sound, as a literary device, helps grab the attention of one’s audience:
- Creating Atmosphere and Mood:
- Sound descriptions can set the tone and atmosphere of a scene, influencing the reader’s emotional response. The sounds of a bustling city, a serene forest, or a thunderstorm can evoke different moods and enhance the overall atmosphere of a story.
- Establishing Setting:
- Sound details can help establish the setting and immerse readers in the world of the narrative. The unique sounds of specific locations, such as the hustle and bustle of a marketplace or the gentle lapping of waves on a beach, provide sensory richness and bring settings to life.
- Developing Characters:
- The way characters speak, their accents, tones, and patterns of speech, can reveal important aspects of their personalities, backgrounds, and relationships. Dialogue and vocal descriptions contribute to character development and help readers form connections with the characters.
- Conveying Emotion:
- Sound descriptions can convey emotional states and intensify the reader’s engagement with the story. The rhythm, pitch, and volume of sounds, as well as the use of onomatopoeia, can evoke a wide range of emotions, from excitement and joy to fear and sorrow.
- Building Suspense and Tension:
- Sound can be a powerful tool for building suspense and tension in a narrative. Suspenseful music, eerie noises, or sudden silence can heighten anticipation and keep readers on the edge of their seats, wondering what will happen next.
- Highlighting Themes and Symbolism:
- Sound can carry symbolic meaning and contribute to the thematic resonance of a story. For example, recurring motifs such as the tolling of bells, the chirping of crickets, or the howling of wind may symbolize themes of time, nature, or existentialism.
- Enhancing Immersion:
- Sound descriptions add depth and realism to a story, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the fictional world. By engaging the auditory sense, writers enhance the sensory experience and make the narrative more vivid and compelling.
- Guiding Pacing and Rhythm:
- Sound descriptions can influence the pacing and rhythm of a story, impacting its flow and structure. The cadence of dialogue, the rhythm of narration, and the use of sound effects all contribute to the overall tempo and pacing of the narrative.
How to listen to nature?
- Exercise:
- Spend time in a natural setting and close your eyes, focusing on the sounds of spring. Listen for birdsong, rustling leaves, trickling streams, and other seasonal sounds. Try to capture these sounds in your writing.
- Example: “The air was filled with the symphony of spring: the cheerful trill of robins welcoming the dawn, the soft rustle of leaves as they unfurled in the breeze, and the gentle babble of a nearby brook, bubbling with the promise of new life.”
- Spend time in a natural setting and close your eyes, focusing on the sounds of spring. Listen for birdsong, rustling leaves, trickling streams, and other seasonal sounds. Try to capture these sounds in your writing.
Touch:
Touch, aids in the art of seducing the reader:
- Creating Physical Sensations:
- Touch descriptions allow readers to experience physical sensations vicariously through the narrative. By evoking the sense of touch, writers can make their stories more immersive and engaging, drawing readers deeper into the fictional world.
- Establishing Setting and Atmosphere:
- Touch details contribute to the establishment of setting and atmosphere by conveying the tactile qualities of the environment. Descriptions of rough stone walls, soft velvet cushions, or icy winds help readers visualize and feel the surroundings more vividly.
- Developing Characters:
- The way characters interact with their environment through touch can reveal important aspects of their personalities, emotions, and relationships. For example, a character’s gentle caress, hesitant touch, or firm handshake can convey intimacy, uncertainty, or confidence, respectively.
- Conveying Emotion:
- Descriptions can evoke emotional responses in readers, intensifying their connection to the story and its characters. A comforting hug, a tender kiss, or a painful slap can evoke a wide range of emotions, from warmth and affection to sorrow and anger.
- Enhancing Realism and Authenticity:
- Including tactile details in writing adds realism and authenticity to the narrative, making it more relatable and believable for readers. By describing textures, temperatures, and physical sensations, writers create a sensory-rich experience that mirrors real-life experiences.
- Building Tension and Suspense:
- The sensory act of skin-on-skin contact can be a powerful tool for building tension and suspense in a story. For instance, a clammy hand, a shiver down the spine, or a tense grip can create a sense of unease and anticipation, keeping readers on edge and eager to see what happens next.
- Symbolism and Metaphor:
- Touch can carry symbolic meaning and contribute to the thematic resonance of a story. For example, the feeling of being “touched by warmth” may symbolize emotional connection or comfort, while the sensation of “cold, clammy hands” may symbolize fear or unease.
- Fostering Empathy and Connection:
- By experiencing physical sensations alongside the characters, readers develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and motivations.
So, how do we allow the season to “touch” our craft?
- Exercise:
- Spend time outdoors and pay attention to the sensations of spring against your skin. Feel the warmth of the sun, the coolness of the breeze, and the softness of new leaves and petals. Try to capture these tactile experiences in your writing.
- Example: “The sun’s rays caressed my skin, warming me from the inside out as I basked in its golden glow. A gentle breeze ruffled my hair, carrying with it the promise of renewal. I reached out to touch a velvety petal, marveling at its delicate texture and the promise of life it held within.”
- Spend time outdoors and pay attention to the sensations of spring against your skin. Feel the warmth of the sun, the coolness of the breeze, and the softness of new leaves and petals. Try to capture these tactile experiences in your writing.
Scent:
Scent, also known as olfaction, is a powerful element in writing that engages the reader’s sense of smell.
- Evoke Memories and Emotions:
- Scent is closely linked to memory and emotion. Describing scents in writing can evoke powerful memories and emotions in readers, transporting them to specific moments in time and creating a deeper connection to the story.
- Establish Atmosphere and Setting:
- Scent descriptions can help establish the atmosphere and setting of a scene. Whether it’s the salty tang of ocean air, the earthy aroma of a forest, or the musty smell of an old attic, scents add richness and depth to the sensory experience, immersing readers in the world of the narrative.
- Develop Characters:
- The scents associated with characters can reveal important aspects of their personality, background, and mood. For example, a character who always wears a hint of lavender perfume may be seen as calm and composed, while a character who smells like cigarette smoke might be perceived as rebellious or troubled.
- Enhance Realism:
- Including scent descriptions in writing adds realism and authenticity to the narrative, making the fictional world feel more vivid and believable. Scent is an integral part of our everyday experiences, and incorporating it into writing helps bring scenes to life for readers.
- Convey Symbolism and Theme:
- Scents can carry symbolic meaning and contribute to the thematic resonance of a story. For example, the scent of roses may symbolize love and romance, while the smell of decay may symbolize death and decay. By using scent strategically, writers can enhance the thematic depth of their work.
- Heighten Tension and Suspense:
- Scent can be used to build tension and suspense in a narrative. Describing a mysterious, unfamiliar scent lingering in the air or the sudden absence of a familiar scent can create a sense of unease and anticipation, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover what will happen next.
- Appeal to the Reader’s Imagination:
- Scent descriptions stimulate the reader’s imagination, allowing them to mentally “smell” the scents described in the writing. This engagement of the senses makes the reading experience more immersive and memorable.
- Create Multi-Sensory Experiences:
- By incorporating scent along with other sensory details such as sight, sound, and touch, writers can create multi-dimensional, immersive experiences for readers. This multi-sensory approach makes the narrative more vivid and engaging.
How can you take the time to smell the roses?
- Exercise:
- Visit a flower garden or floral shop and inhale deeply, taking note of the various scents of spring blooms. Consider how these scents evoke different emotions and memories. Try to describe them using vivid language.
- Example: “The air was perfumed with the heady aroma of lilacs, their sweet fragrance mingling with the earthy scent of freshly turned soil. Nearby, a patch of lavender released its calming aroma, while the zesty tang of citrus blossoms added a refreshing twist to the springtime air.”
- Visit a flower garden or floral shop and inhale deeply, taking note of the various scents of spring blooms. Consider how these scents evoke different emotions and memories. Try to describe them using vivid language.
Taste:
Taste is an element which evokes memory and makes readers hungry for more of your story.
- Evoke Emotion and Memory:
- Taste descriptions can evoke powerful emotions and memories in readers. Just as certain foods or flavors can trigger nostalgic recollections or elicit specific feelings, incorporating tastes into writing can create a deep emotional connection with readers.
- Enhance Realism and Immersion:
- Including taste descriptions in writing adds realism and immersion to the narrative. By vividly portraying the flavors and textures of food and drink, writers bring scenes to life and make the fictional world feel more tangible and believable.
- Establish Setting and Atmosphere:
- Taste descriptions help establish the setting and atmosphere of a scene. Different cuisines, culinary traditions, and flavors are associated with specific cultures, regions, and time periods, providing rich opportunities for world-building and character development.
- Develop Characters:
- The way characters interact with food and drink can reveal important aspects of their personality, background, and relationships. Whether it’s a character’s favorite comfort food, a celebratory feast, or a shared meal with loved ones, taste can provide insights into their values, preferences, and social dynamics.
- Convey Symbolism and Theme:
- Taste can carry symbolic meaning and contribute to the thematic resonance of a story. For example, the taste of bitter herbs may symbolize hardship or sacrifice, while the sweetness of ripe fruit may symbolize abundance or joy. By using taste strategically, writers can deepen the thematic complexity of their work.
- Create Multi-Sensory Experiences:
- By incorporating taste along with other sensory details such as sight, sound, smell, and touch, writers can create multi-dimensional, immersive experiences for readers. This multi-sensory approach engages readers’ senses more fully, making the narrative more vivid and engaging.
- Heighten Sensory Engagement:
- Taste descriptions stimulate the reader’s imagination and engage their senses, allowing them to mentally “taste” the flavors described in the writing. This sensory engagement makes the reading experience more immersive and memorable.
- Enhance Dialogue and Interaction:
- Scenes involving food and drink offer opportunities for dynamic dialogue and interaction between characters. Shared meals, culinary adventures, and cooking experiences can foster camaraderie, conflict, or intimacy, deepening relationships and driving the plot forward.
How to get an appetite for Spring?
- Exercise:
- Sample seasonal foods and beverages associated with spring, such as fresh fruits, salads, herbal teas, and floral-infused treats. Pay attention to the flavors and sensations they evoke, and try to describe them in your writing.
- Example: “I savored the crisp sweetness of a freshly picked strawberry, its juicy flesh bursting with the essence of springtime. Each bite was a symphony of flavor, tinged with the tang of citrus and the subtle bitterness of wild herbs. As I sipped my fragrant jasmine tea, I felt refreshed and rejuvenated, as if tasting the very essence of spring itself.”
- Sample seasonal foods and beverages associated with spring, such as fresh fruits, salads, herbal teas, and floral-infused treats. Pay attention to the flavors and sensations they evoke, and try to describe them in your writing.
In essence, honing the ability to evoke sensory experiences in writing is essential for creating engaging, vivid, and emotionally resonant narratives, no matter the season. By mastering the art of sensory description, writers enrich their storytelling and leave a lasting impression on readers. So, go outside while the weather is fine, take a deep breath, touch grass, and write, write, write!
Feathers and Fiction
Literary Pet Names for Your Avian Companions
- Scuttle
- Zazu
- Hedwig
- Gwehir
- Archimedes
- Iago
- Poll
- Henny Penny
- Buckbeak
- Fawkes
- Pertelote
- Billina
- Captain Flint
- Chanticleer
- Pickwick
- Opus
- McFly
- Gale
- Tuuli
- Diana
- Anthus
- Feeny
- Orville
- Wilbur
- Woodstock
- Errol
- Amelia
- Hawkeye
- Horus
- Maverick
- Tengu
- Zephyr
- Excalibird
- Ava
- Echo
- Aria
- Sarika
- Odette
- Lark
- Apollo
- Daisy
- Poe
- Mabel
- Thorondor
- Flora Finching
- Kiki
- Flit
- Kevin
- Nightwing
- Diablo
-
Spring Into Reading
The springtime reading challenge has arrived!
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Page to Plot: Literary Landscaping Ideas
Literary landscaping ideas for the green thumb inclined book lover.
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Writing Prompt: Bard None
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Celebrating Neurodiversity: Books to Illuminate Autism Awareness Month
In literature, portraying characters with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), offers readers a window into the unique experiences of those diagnosed with autism. It shines a light upon their strengths and, also, personal journeys of self-discovery.
As we celebrate Autism Awareness Month, let us embrace the richness of the human experience by embracing neurodiversity in storytelling.
- The Maid by Nita Prose
- Tell Me How It Ends by Quinton Li
- The State of Grace by Rachael Lucas
- Notes on My Family by Emily Critchley
- A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll
- The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
- The Reason I Jump: the Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism by Naoki Higashida
- The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr by Frances Maynard
- Odd Girl Out by Laura James
- The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
- Look Me in the Eye by John Elder Robison
- Daniel Isn’t Talking by Marti Leimbach
- Strange Son by Portia Iversen
- Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism by Temple Grandin
- The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang
- Colin Fischer by Ashley Edward Miller, Zack Stentz
- Stim: An Autistic Anthology by Lizzie Huxley-Jones (Editor) et al.
- Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
- Invisible Differences: A Story of Asperger’s, Adulting, and Living a Life in Full Color by Julie Dachez, Mademoiselle Caroline (Illustrator)
- Show Us Who You Are by Elle McNicoll
- An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon
- A Room Called Earth by Madeleine Ryan
- The Electricity of Every Living Thing by Katherine May
- Uncomfortable Labels by Laura Kate Dale
- Mindblind by Jennifer Roy
Brushstrokes of Verse: Exploring Poetry-Inspired Artwork
Take a gander at breathtaking interpretations of poetry through the creative minds of artists and their art.
The Lady Of Shalott, John William Waterhouse, 1888
The Lady of Shalott (1832) by ALFRED, LORD TENNYSON
Ophelia, John Everett Millais, 1851
Hamlet (1599) by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
Hero and Leander (To Christopher Marlowe), Cy Twombly, 1985
Hero and Leander (1598) by CHRISTOPHER MARLOWE
Charles Demuth, I saw the figure 5 in gold, 1928
The Great Figure (1921) by WILLIAM CARLOS WILLIAMS
The Poesie Series, Titian, 1551-1562
The Metamorphoses (8 C.E.) by OVID
Art Article Articles book recs Books Christmas Creative Writing Etsy Fandom Fantasy Fun Funny Gif Goodreads Halloween Harry Potter History Holiday Horror Humor Illustration Letterboxd Link Literature Love Merch Movie recs Movies Music News Photography Pinterest Poetry Pop Culture Quote Quotes Reading Spotify Tumblr Vocabulary Writers Writing Writing Advice Writing Prompt Youtube
Unexpected Plot Twists: The Chaos of Living
To live at all is to be the protagonist of a story—your story.
Constantly we write and re-write our plot-lines. We wake, work, struggle, love, fight, and lose faith in a sometimes unforgiving world so we can recreate ourselves into something new. Someone better. Smarter. Greater. A hero.
No one wants a meaningless ending. We need to author bestselling narratives; sell epitaphs worth remembering. To live eternally through the memories of those who knew us best. We want to stand tall in the eyes of those around us.
I am no different. I hunger to be counted, seen as a storyteller renowned. Legendary.
It is because my appetite quickens that I have appeared absent from this blog. I am, once more, restructuring my day-to-day life. I am moving again. Traveling. Making future plans. Seeing family. Helping loved ones. Overcoming, as always, the unexpected while embracing the chaos of what’s yet to come.
Unlike the protagonist inside a pulp fiction paperback, most of my chapters remain unwritten. Sadly, I am a seat-of-your-pants kind of writer (sorry, folks!) where I conjure up the next scene as I go along, not methodically. It has never made for a smooth sailing transition for any of my readers.
Though nothing is clearly mapped out, I do have a sense that, somehow, the next installment of this series will be worthwhile. I can feel it. I am going to be shooting the moon happy. Grand even. And gloriously epic.
Stay golden Ponyboy. It isn’t over. A story cannot finish itself. There is more to chronicle; more anecdotes to share. Always more. Always.
“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”
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― Joseph Campbell