I’ve owned many dogs over the years, but none like my latest, Sheba, who is a Kangal, a shepherd breed originating from Turkey. For thousands of years, Kangals have been used to guard goats and sheep, but it was not until the 1980’s that they arrived in the United States. Continue reading how the kangal got her mask
Lately, I’ve done a few talks for high school students who are writers, or are interested in becoming one. In addition to disabusing them of the idea that becoming an author is a fast and easy ticket to fame and fortune, I’ve shared with them a lot of tips and Continue reading doing “5 to 10” for writing (part 2)
Lately, I’ve done a few talks for high school students who are writers, or are interested in becoming one. In addition to disabusing them of the idea that becoming an author is a fast and easy ticket to fame and fortune, I’ve shared with them a lot of tips and Continue reading doing “5 to 10” for writing (part 1)
Queen Anne’s County TV, the local cable show where I live (in Scenic, Convenient-to-Nowhere, MD) has launched a new show, “Papa’s World,” (a reference to “Papa” Ernest Hemingway). Every episode will feature an Eastern Shore writer, and I was chosen as the very first interview. You can watch the whole Continue reading “lost dogs” on “papa’s world”
I wrote Our Wild Place in 2006 as a proposed picture book, back when I was contemplating doing children’s literature instead of young adult fiction. Perhaps some time in the future, I’ll get together with my artist friend James Arnold and make it happen. The genesis of this piece was Continue reading our wild place
The latest in a series recognizing the best teachers I had I was stunned and saddened to learn that on October 30 of this year, just a few weeks ago, the great J.R. Salamanca passed away peacefully in his sleep, at the age of 91. I was fortunate enough to Continue reading teacher appreciation: j.r. salamanca
Once upon a time, reading science-fiction was frowned upon by older people. Growing up, I had many a teacher or other grown-up tell me, “Stop wasting your time on that garbage and read something worthwhile.” “Worthwhile,” of course, meaning “literature,” whether that be Shakespeare, Faulkner, or (God help me) John Irving. Continue reading flowers for uncle jerry
