by Karen Krossing | Apr 26, 2010 | On Writing
Don’t know what happens next in that story you’re writing? Or maybe you don’t know how to fix a glaring problem in a chapter you’re rewriting? Here’s a method that I use to solve a problem in a work-in-progress:
- Ask yourself what is the problem? State it clearly. Write it down.
- Ask yourself what information, if any, you need to solve the problem. Do the necessary research.
- Wait for the answer, and trust that it will come. Try not to think about it. Go on to other tasks (menial tasks work well).
This technique may sound too simple, but the hardest part is trusting that it will work. Our subconscious minds are powerful tools. How often I forget to use it.
by Karen Krossing | Apr 1, 2010 | Mentoring
As Vice-President of CANSCAIP, I’ve been organizing the Blue Pencil Mentorship Program. It’s a terrific new program designed to connect emerging writers and illustrators for children with professional authors and illustrators. Through Blue Pencil, you can connect with an expert in your field, receive a personal critique of your work, and submit up to five follow-up questions. So if you have a manuscript or series of illustrations that needs a professional polish, you might want to check out the Blue Pencil. Here’s the link for more information.
by Karen Krossing | Mar 4, 2010 | Presentation News
On March 2, I conducted writing workshops at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. The Reading Room there is a vibrant place with volunteers and staff dedicated to putting books into the hands of children and teens. The teens I wrote with were enthusiastic writers and positive critics of each others’ work. Librarian Patrick Gracey had this to say about the workshops: “Karen’s writing program was well received, and both teachers also gave me positive feedback. She really got the kids writing well. I was amazed to see the quiet fury and the amount of writing they got done in a comparatively short time. They also really liked the exercises.” Thanks to Patrick and the Toronto Public Library for arranging the event.
by Karen Krossing | Feb 24, 2010 | Book News
YA Dystopia novels are uber-popular ever since the release of Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. So if you like dystopia novels and are looking for more to read, check out this list of Half a Century of English-Language Young Adult Dystopias, compiled by Amy H. Sturgis. My novel Pure is on the list, as well as many other fine reads.
by Karen Krossing | Feb 10, 2010 | Mentoring, Presentation News
I’m looking forward to conducting a writing workshop at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto on March 2. It’s exclusively for patients of the hospital, but if you’re looking for an event that is open to the public, please join me for a reading at the Barbara Frum Branch of the Toronto Public Library at 1 p.m. on May 5.
