Archive

  • Seizing Opportunity from Reader Feedback

    Submitting your book to beta readers can be a daunting prospect. What if they don’t like it? What if their suggestions mean you have to overhaul your entire book? What if the book is no good at all? Writing for the public is always underpinned by a certain amount of nervousness. But we can prosper… Read more

  • It’s Only an Event if It Doesn’t Happen Every Day: My Thoughts on Crossovers

    Crossover, crossovers. People from different worlds smashing into each other. Different genres, different styles, different stories. Throw them in a mixer and see what happens. What’s the appeal? I’d say it comes down to simple curiosity. What would happen if Superman met Captain America? How would Greek myths get on with Chinese myths? Can a… Read more

  • Remembering Dinotopia

    Remembering Dinotopia

    Do you remember your favorite book from your childhood? In truth, there are so many books I loved as a child that I can’t remember them all. I just remember the hours spent in my room, lost in words and pictures. But there is one that does stick out in my memory. I have very… Read more

  • What is a Masterpiece?

    Masterpiece. It’s a word you hear often. So often, I feel that its meaning has been drained out of it. Like “genius” and “magnum opus,” it’s a label we often apply to something that we enjoy on a personal level, regardless of whether it deserves the title. A little harsh? Probably. There’s nothing wrong with… Read more

  • Of Apple Seeds and Dreams

    Of Apple Seeds and Dreams

    Lately, I’ve been thinking of apple seeds. Apple seeds are small and insignificant. They’re tiny specks of black that you carve out of an apple and throw away. They’re detritus tossed on the ground. But give it rich soil to take root in … The apple tree comes from the small and insignificant seed. It… Read more

  • Likeable Character and Charismatic Characters

    There’s a fine line between being likeable and being charismatic. A likeable character – affable, friendly, trustworthy – is someone you want to be around for a chat and a drink. A charismatic character – inspiring, motivating, commanding – is someone you want to watch from a distance . There can be overlap, of course,… Read more