Malcolm Tanner's Blog
October 27, 2020
Meet Author Kendra Nicholson
I was lucky enough to meet this talented author through another author friend of mine, Steven Basset, who just happens to be his sister. I have done an article on Steve recently as Eli Pope, author of The Mason Jar Series. He said his sister is also writing and had a unique story to tell. I was able to reach out to her and I was not disappointed in the interview I had with Kendra Nicholson.. So after reading her book, “The Climb”, I thought it would be a good idea to feature her in one of my blog articles. Here is that interview we had.
Q: Tell me about your background.
A: “I began doing theatre in high school, and fell in love with it. I graduated from Oklahoma State University where I majored in Theatre, and minored in English. I took several years to focus on raising my two boys, and when I looked into performing again, I discovered improv. I was hooked from the moment I took my first class. I eventually began performing and teaching improv in the Los Angeles area.”
Q: Tell me about your book, “The Climb”?
"A: “In January of 2018, my husband and I lost our son to suicide. I began journaling in order to process his death and my grief. I would share bits from my journaling on Facebook, including stories about him, and about how I was dealing with my grief on Facebook. At one point, I was researching reading material for my surviving son, and I realized there was precious little out there for sibling survivors. I decided to do something about that. “The Climb” is a fictional novel written from the point of view of a thirteen-year-old boy who loses his big brother to suicide. Although it is fiction, there is a great deal of my son, Trevor’s personality in there. I wanted people to remember him for more than his final act.
Q: What other works do you have available or what are you working on?
A: “Right now, I am working on a coming of age fictional novel that takes place in the Missouri Ozarks where I grew up. It’s in its very early stages at this point.”
Q: Who are some of your favorite authors you enjoy reading?
A: “Oh boy… I truly do like an eclectic mix of authors and genres. It all depends on my mood. Overall, I do like books where the main character has a very distinctive voice, and a unique perspective. “Lamb,” by Christopher Moore, “Sula”, by Toni Morrison, “The Red Tent”, by Anita Diamant, “I Know This Much is True”, by Wally Lamb, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime”, by Mark Haddon, “Torture the Artist”, by Joey Goebel, “The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint”, by Brady Udall, and “A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,” by Dave Eggers are some of my favorite books. I also love Stephen King and Dean Koontz, which are really the ultimate ordinary guy in extraordinary circumstances books.”
Q: What advice would you give to authors just getting started?
A: "Read. Read everything you can get your hands on. When you are writing, read your words out loud to yourself. It may feel weird, but it will help you see if it flows, and help you catch errors. It will also help you find your character’s voice.”
Q: What is your most and least favorite things about writing?
A: “My favorite thing about writing is when the story surprises me. I love it when I’m writing, and I have an idea, but it ends up going in a different direction than the plan. It’s really very much like doing improv. You try to give your character a unique point of view, and then stay open minded to changes within the character’s world.”
“My least favorite thing is marketing the finished product. UGH. The worst.”
What sites, links, and contact information can you give our readers?
You can purchase my book in paperback or ebook format on Amazon as this link:
https://www.amazon.com/Climb-Kendra-N...
I have also started an author Facebook page: Author Kendra Nicholson @theclimbauthor
This work was interesting and very insightful. I was impressed with the depiction of this problem that is so pervasive in our society today. It not only delves into the mind of the son, but also into the mind of the sibling and parents and how suicide can affect those that are left behind. If you can’t shed a tear in this read, I’m sure you are missing the point of this poignant and relevant book.
Kendra reached deep down in her own soul to write this work and I am sure this was a very difficult project. There is something to learn from this for all of us, no matter our age or lot in life. This is something to pay attention to and mull over in our minds, as to how this can so easily happen to anyone.
I applaud Kendra in even attempting this work, and for her courage and strength in her solemn attempt to let others know about this significant cause. Although it is a work of fiction, it clearly makes the attempt to sound the alarm for others, not only in suicide prevention, but dealing with its aftermath.
I highly recommend the purchase of this book and hope that those that have had the same experience are enlightened and empowered to deal with this issue.
Q: Tell me about your background.
A: “I began doing theatre in high school, and fell in love with it. I graduated from Oklahoma State University where I majored in Theatre, and minored in English. I took several years to focus on raising my two boys, and when I looked into performing again, I discovered improv. I was hooked from the moment I took my first class. I eventually began performing and teaching improv in the Los Angeles area.”
Q: Tell me about your book, “The Climb”?
"A: “In January of 2018, my husband and I lost our son to suicide. I began journaling in order to process his death and my grief. I would share bits from my journaling on Facebook, including stories about him, and about how I was dealing with my grief on Facebook. At one point, I was researching reading material for my surviving son, and I realized there was precious little out there for sibling survivors. I decided to do something about that. “The Climb” is a fictional novel written from the point of view of a thirteen-year-old boy who loses his big brother to suicide. Although it is fiction, there is a great deal of my son, Trevor’s personality in there. I wanted people to remember him for more than his final act.
Q: What other works do you have available or what are you working on?
A: “Right now, I am working on a coming of age fictional novel that takes place in the Missouri Ozarks where I grew up. It’s in its very early stages at this point.”
Q: Who are some of your favorite authors you enjoy reading?
A: “Oh boy… I truly do like an eclectic mix of authors and genres. It all depends on my mood. Overall, I do like books where the main character has a very distinctive voice, and a unique perspective. “Lamb,” by Christopher Moore, “Sula”, by Toni Morrison, “The Red Tent”, by Anita Diamant, “I Know This Much is True”, by Wally Lamb, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime”, by Mark Haddon, “Torture the Artist”, by Joey Goebel, “The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint”, by Brady Udall, and “A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,” by Dave Eggers are some of my favorite books. I also love Stephen King and Dean Koontz, which are really the ultimate ordinary guy in extraordinary circumstances books.”
Q: What advice would you give to authors just getting started?
A: "Read. Read everything you can get your hands on. When you are writing, read your words out loud to yourself. It may feel weird, but it will help you see if it flows, and help you catch errors. It will also help you find your character’s voice.”
Q: What is your most and least favorite things about writing?
A: “My favorite thing about writing is when the story surprises me. I love it when I’m writing, and I have an idea, but it ends up going in a different direction than the plan. It’s really very much like doing improv. You try to give your character a unique point of view, and then stay open minded to changes within the character’s world.”
“My least favorite thing is marketing the finished product. UGH. The worst.”
What sites, links, and contact information can you give our readers?
You can purchase my book in paperback or ebook format on Amazon as this link:
https://www.amazon.com/Climb-Kendra-N...
I have also started an author Facebook page: Author Kendra Nicholson @theclimbauthor
This work was interesting and very insightful. I was impressed with the depiction of this problem that is so pervasive in our society today. It not only delves into the mind of the son, but also into the mind of the sibling and parents and how suicide can affect those that are left behind. If you can’t shed a tear in this read, I’m sure you are missing the point of this poignant and relevant book.
Kendra reached deep down in her own soul to write this work and I am sure this was a very difficult project. There is something to learn from this for all of us, no matter our age or lot in life. This is something to pay attention to and mull over in our minds, as to how this can so easily happen to anyone.
I applaud Kendra in even attempting this work, and for her courage and strength in her solemn attempt to let others know about this significant cause. Although it is a work of fiction, it clearly makes the attempt to sound the alarm for others, not only in suicide prevention, but dealing with its aftermath.
I highly recommend the purchase of this book and hope that those that have had the same experience are enlightened and empowered to deal with this issue.
Meet Author Shirley McCann
I had a chance to interview fellow author and member of the Springfield, MO Writer’s Guild, Shirley McCann. I have read one of her books in the Scarry Inn Series, “The Coffin: The Scarry Inn Book 2”. I will talk about the book later, but first, let’s get to the interview with Shirley.
Q: Tell me about your background.
A: “Interesting question. While I don’t remember this, my sister told me when I was younger, I always wanted to be a writer. I guess it must have been stashed in the back of my mind somewhere until I reached my late twenties.”
“After graduating from Clever High School, I worked at several jobs, sometimes as a stay-at-home mom, in between. In 2016, I retired from Cox Health after twenty years of service.”
Q: “Could you tell me about the books in your series?”
A: “While The Scarry Inn is written for the Young Adult market, the story will also appeal to an older crowd. In this six-book series siblings, Clyde and Dick Scarry run a fear-themed motel along with their sister, Madge Scarry-Story. The five rooms are named The Coffin, The Morgue, The Chapel, The Crematorium, and The Mausoleum, and each room is appropriately decorated with its theme. While the owners of the inn may remain consistent, the guests will vary, and you can bet at least one person will end up dead during their stay!”
“The Scarry Inn, Book 1 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08D3BTWSB and
The Coffin, The Scarry Inn, Book 2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08D64HHG9
Are both available on Amazon.
The Morgue, The Scarry Inn, Book 3 will be available in the late fall.”
Q: What other works do you have available or what are you working on?
A: “I’ve also written a cozy mystery, Anonymously Yours, which has been well-received. Short stories always remain a favorite of mine, and I have several collections of these stories available on Amazon. I’ve also written what is hopefully the first of many romance novels, titled Hope For The Future. Here are the links to those works:”
Anonymously Yours https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YYQ8TGZ
Hope For The Future https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CF24VZC
Q: “Who are some of your favorite authors you enjoy reading?”
A: “The late Mary Higgins Clark was my favorite, although I also enjoy David Baldacci, Harlen Coben, and Natasha Preston.”
Q: “What advice would you give to authors just getting started?
“Keep writing. Listen to the critics, but don’t take everything they say to heart. Lots of successful authors have been rejected and criticized.”
Q: “What is your most and least favorite things about writing?”
A: “My favorite thing is seeing my book in print. It takes a lot of work, and sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever get it done, but once it is, there’s no feeling like it.”
“My least favorite thing is finding the time to write. Although I’m retired, I watch my grandkids a lot. They don’t like me on the computer.”
Q: “What’s next for Shirley McCann?”
A: “Keep writing and keep producing. I’ve got another YA mystery (series?) in the works. Hoping to get the first book out next year.”
Q: “What sites, links, and contact information can you give our readers? Web site, Facebook, Twitter, or wherever else readers can learn more?”
A:
Website: https://www.shirleymccann.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shirleymccan...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shirleymccann
As you can see, Shirley is a thoughtful and insightful author. I have read the Scarry Inn Book 2, The Coffin. In this book, three friends and some strangers meet up for a Murder Mystery Weekend at the Scarry Inn. They at first seem skeptical but buy in to the idea. They begin the weekend as “all in” participants until some strange things begin to happen.
When someone ends up dead, suspicions start to rise as to who the killer may be. They cannot leave as a major storm has them trapped there. No one trusts the other, and the twists and turns leave you changing your mind about who could have committed a murder.
I recommend this book to all of my readers. Shirley does a great job of introducing different characters and making them all possible suspects. No one can be marked off the list. It is an enjoyable and quick read that I am sure you will take to immediately. I stayed engaged right up until the end and could visualize this story as if it were a movie. Her character descriptions were that good.
Q: Tell me about your background.
A: “Interesting question. While I don’t remember this, my sister told me when I was younger, I always wanted to be a writer. I guess it must have been stashed in the back of my mind somewhere until I reached my late twenties.”
“After graduating from Clever High School, I worked at several jobs, sometimes as a stay-at-home mom, in between. In 2016, I retired from Cox Health after twenty years of service.”
Q: “Could you tell me about the books in your series?”
A: “While The Scarry Inn is written for the Young Adult market, the story will also appeal to an older crowd. In this six-book series siblings, Clyde and Dick Scarry run a fear-themed motel along with their sister, Madge Scarry-Story. The five rooms are named The Coffin, The Morgue, The Chapel, The Crematorium, and The Mausoleum, and each room is appropriately decorated with its theme. While the owners of the inn may remain consistent, the guests will vary, and you can bet at least one person will end up dead during their stay!”
“The Scarry Inn, Book 1 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08D3BTWSB and
The Coffin, The Scarry Inn, Book 2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08D64HHG9
Are both available on Amazon.
The Morgue, The Scarry Inn, Book 3 will be available in the late fall.”
Q: What other works do you have available or what are you working on?
A: “I’ve also written a cozy mystery, Anonymously Yours, which has been well-received. Short stories always remain a favorite of mine, and I have several collections of these stories available on Amazon. I’ve also written what is hopefully the first of many romance novels, titled Hope For The Future. Here are the links to those works:”
Anonymously Yours https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YYQ8TGZ
Hope For The Future https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CF24VZC
Q: “Who are some of your favorite authors you enjoy reading?”
A: “The late Mary Higgins Clark was my favorite, although I also enjoy David Baldacci, Harlen Coben, and Natasha Preston.”
Q: “What advice would you give to authors just getting started?
“Keep writing. Listen to the critics, but don’t take everything they say to heart. Lots of successful authors have been rejected and criticized.”
Q: “What is your most and least favorite things about writing?”
A: “My favorite thing is seeing my book in print. It takes a lot of work, and sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever get it done, but once it is, there’s no feeling like it.”
“My least favorite thing is finding the time to write. Although I’m retired, I watch my grandkids a lot. They don’t like me on the computer.”
Q: “What’s next for Shirley McCann?”
A: “Keep writing and keep producing. I’ve got another YA mystery (series?) in the works. Hoping to get the first book out next year.”
Q: “What sites, links, and contact information can you give our readers? Web site, Facebook, Twitter, or wherever else readers can learn more?”
A:
Website: https://www.shirleymccann.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shirleymccan...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shirleymccann
As you can see, Shirley is a thoughtful and insightful author. I have read the Scarry Inn Book 2, The Coffin. In this book, three friends and some strangers meet up for a Murder Mystery Weekend at the Scarry Inn. They at first seem skeptical but buy in to the idea. They begin the weekend as “all in” participants until some strange things begin to happen.
When someone ends up dead, suspicions start to rise as to who the killer may be. They cannot leave as a major storm has them trapped there. No one trusts the other, and the twists and turns leave you changing your mind about who could have committed a murder.
I recommend this book to all of my readers. Shirley does a great job of introducing different characters and making them all possible suspects. No one can be marked off the list. It is an enjoyable and quick read that I am sure you will take to immediately. I stayed engaged right up until the end and could visualize this story as if it were a movie. Her character descriptions were that good.
May 28, 2020
Summing Up "Redemption" Series
That’s a wrap! I finished and published my final book in the Redemption trilogy, Redemption 3: Death at Downers Grove. Since I’m no longer plotting the adventures (and misadventures!) of Mike Parsons, I can sit back and reflect on the process, characters, and purpose of the books.
Screen Shot 2020-01-07 at 8.11.25 PM.png
Before sharing my Redemption reflections, I want to thank those who played instrumental roles in writing and publishing the trilogy. First, my wife, Sandy, has truly been supportive through this entire process. She graciously puts up with my early mornings of writing, often at 4:00 a.m. She always cheers me on when I near the end of each book. The next shout-out goes to Linda Knight, my editor, whose expertise and steadfast patience helped my writing improve. Linda leaves no stone unturned or coma misplaced when proofreading my work. Finally, Meredith Morrison, deserves a thank you. Meredith built and maintains my website. She also designs social media flyers for book signings. I’ll share more about her in another blog!
The idea for Redemption came from the common struggles of growing up, making big decisions, and forging relationships. One of my favorite quotes by Oscar Wilde influenced how I developed the characters and their complicated storylines -- “Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.”
I pictured Mike Parsons, the main character, living an exciting and trialing life. After all, his experiences composed a three-part mystery thriller. However, I also wanted his emotions and some experiences, especially the emotionally difficult ones, to be relatable for every reader. Mike, for example, lacked confidence in himself, which is a common story for many. He doubted if he could ever attain what he truly wanted. Also, he often felt awkward, stumbling with words and hesitating to take action. He didn’t make things happen for himself but instead let things happen to him.
Detective Allison Branch’s character was interesting to develop because I dug deep into her traumatic past to explain her present. Allison’s childhood involved abuse and neglect, which influenced her anger and distorted outlook on herself and others. Trauma from prior years haunted her every day, which sadly is not an uncommon reality.
Jake proved the most difficult to develop because he needed to be viewed as both good and bad. The good -- his will to protect his sister at all costs. The bad -- his drive to advance the cartel. His life in the slums made him ruthless, a fighter, but he showed soft spots, even when faced with hard decisions.
Andy Marx was a soldier for justice. He took his job seriously and maintained stability compared other characters, until the very end — a good cop who lost his taste for the job.
Without Sheila, Margaret, and Jerry there is no story. While they didn’t appear in every chapter, they gave the bigger characters foundation and purpose, from the first book to the third.
Several readers told me how they wanted the trilogy to end. I listened, imagined their proposed scenarios, and even changed some outcomes. However, if something didn’t feel quite right, I followed my intuition and desire for the story to peak, climax, and remain relatable.
Screen Shot 2020-01-07 at 8.03.22 PM.png
To sum up my Redemption experience, it’s been wonderful and challenging. I hope all of my readers and can find that one most relatable, immersive character. Cheer for them. Empathize with them. If the reader can do that, I did my job.
The final book, Redemption 3, Death at Downers Grove, is now out on Amazon along with Redemption 1 and 2. You can search Amazon directly or find the link on my website. Stay tuned for upcoming book signings!
Also, feel free leave to your insights in the comments section and visit my Facebook page, and website.
Screen Shot 2020-01-07 at 8.11.25 PM.png
Before sharing my Redemption reflections, I want to thank those who played instrumental roles in writing and publishing the trilogy. First, my wife, Sandy, has truly been supportive through this entire process. She graciously puts up with my early mornings of writing, often at 4:00 a.m. She always cheers me on when I near the end of each book. The next shout-out goes to Linda Knight, my editor, whose expertise and steadfast patience helped my writing improve. Linda leaves no stone unturned or coma misplaced when proofreading my work. Finally, Meredith Morrison, deserves a thank you. Meredith built and maintains my website. She also designs social media flyers for book signings. I’ll share more about her in another blog!
The idea for Redemption came from the common struggles of growing up, making big decisions, and forging relationships. One of my favorite quotes by Oscar Wilde influenced how I developed the characters and their complicated storylines -- “Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.”
I pictured Mike Parsons, the main character, living an exciting and trialing life. After all, his experiences composed a three-part mystery thriller. However, I also wanted his emotions and some experiences, especially the emotionally difficult ones, to be relatable for every reader. Mike, for example, lacked confidence in himself, which is a common story for many. He doubted if he could ever attain what he truly wanted. Also, he often felt awkward, stumbling with words and hesitating to take action. He didn’t make things happen for himself but instead let things happen to him.
Detective Allison Branch’s character was interesting to develop because I dug deep into her traumatic past to explain her present. Allison’s childhood involved abuse and neglect, which influenced her anger and distorted outlook on herself and others. Trauma from prior years haunted her every day, which sadly is not an uncommon reality.
Jake proved the most difficult to develop because he needed to be viewed as both good and bad. The good -- his will to protect his sister at all costs. The bad -- his drive to advance the cartel. His life in the slums made him ruthless, a fighter, but he showed soft spots, even when faced with hard decisions.
Andy Marx was a soldier for justice. He took his job seriously and maintained stability compared other characters, until the very end — a good cop who lost his taste for the job.
Without Sheila, Margaret, and Jerry there is no story. While they didn’t appear in every chapter, they gave the bigger characters foundation and purpose, from the first book to the third.
Several readers told me how they wanted the trilogy to end. I listened, imagined their proposed scenarios, and even changed some outcomes. However, if something didn’t feel quite right, I followed my intuition and desire for the story to peak, climax, and remain relatable.
Screen Shot 2020-01-07 at 8.03.22 PM.png
To sum up my Redemption experience, it’s been wonderful and challenging. I hope all of my readers and can find that one most relatable, immersive character. Cheer for them. Empathize with them. If the reader can do that, I did my job.
The final book, Redemption 3, Death at Downers Grove, is now out on Amazon along with Redemption 1 and 2. You can search Amazon directly or find the link on my website. Stay tuned for upcoming book signings!
Also, feel free leave to your insights in the comments section and visit my Facebook page, and website.
September 11, 2019
A Comma Here, A Comma There, A Comma Everywhere!
You may ask, “What does an editor do?”
Well, it’s not an easy job and my editor, Linda Knight, is sensational when it comes to editing what I have written. I appreciate her insights, not only with grammar and punctuation, but also in helping to make the plot and characters make sense. It’s fun to sit in the library at Galena, Missouri, and work through the books. I have learned a lot and as an editor, she is always thorough and doesn’t miss very much.
First, a little background on Linda. She graduated from Mansfield High in Mansfield, Missouri. She also went to College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri. She has been an English teacher for thirteen years and spent 17 years as a librarian in southwest Missouri public schools. She enjoyed her time as a librarian the most, and as she is an avid reader and story teller, I could see that would be her cup of tea. She has also taught Creative Writing at the community college level.
Second, now what does an editor do? Well, usually I will send about three chapters at a time that she will read through and correct. We then meet at the library in Galena and go over those corrections. I love her insight into my work and how she throws other options that I never thought about into my work. She is so diligent with commas, quotations, citing and referencing. She makes sure I give credit when I need to and also keeps my story lines moving and flowing.
We have become friends over time and she roots hard for me to be successful. I have to say that she is a big part of any success I may have and she is the kind of force that every writer needs to stay focused on, not only the story, but the structure and presentation of the story. I see us as a team and my role is the imagination and telling of the story in my words. Her role is to “dress it up” so to speak and make it into a presentable format. It’s great that she knows me well enough now to understand and predict where I am taking the story next. She gives me good plot options not just from a writer’s point of view but from the perspective of a potential reader and what they would see.
I asked Linda to speak on her perspective on the writer/editor relationship. Her are a few of her thoughts.
“I started editing when I started teaching high school English after I graduated from college. I brought home a pile of papers each night, using a lot red ink, but hoping that the suggestions that I made would make sense. With each draft of their papers, improvements were being made. Then the day would come when the student would need me less and less. The first book I ever edited was for a preacher who wanted to tell his story. I learned that editing was a process that takes both the author and editor to become a team.”
“The best part of editing are the lightbulb moments when a correction or suggestion is accepted and the connection between author and editor has been accomplished.”
“The worst part of editing is the feeling I get when I know an author has poured their heart and soul into a plot or character, and I have to say "this doesn't really work here" or "how about if you try this instead".
“When it comes down to it, the editor can make suggestions, but the author has the final say. Line editing is easy for me… commas, adverbs, and grammar usage. Content editing is difficult. You are really telling the author that parts of the book aren't right and rewrites must occur.”
There’s a lot of give and take with the author and the editor. The main fact remains, Linda and I work within the teamwork concept. I never take her suggestions personally and see it as a stage of improvement for my writing. One or two key sentences in a paragraph can make it hard for a reader to follow if left unedited. Constructive criticism can improve the whole writing process and I am thankful that I have Linda to do that for me. She is my critic, but she is also my teacher who motivates and pushes for improvement all the time. That’s what good teachers do, right?
If you would like to contact Linda with more questions or would like to use her for one of your works, you can email her at l.knight89@yahoo.com.
Thanks for reading.
Well, it’s not an easy job and my editor, Linda Knight, is sensational when it comes to editing what I have written. I appreciate her insights, not only with grammar and punctuation, but also in helping to make the plot and characters make sense. It’s fun to sit in the library at Galena, Missouri, and work through the books. I have learned a lot and as an editor, she is always thorough and doesn’t miss very much.
First, a little background on Linda. She graduated from Mansfield High in Mansfield, Missouri. She also went to College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri. She has been an English teacher for thirteen years and spent 17 years as a librarian in southwest Missouri public schools. She enjoyed her time as a librarian the most, and as she is an avid reader and story teller, I could see that would be her cup of tea. She has also taught Creative Writing at the community college level.
Second, now what does an editor do? Well, usually I will send about three chapters at a time that she will read through and correct. We then meet at the library in Galena and go over those corrections. I love her insight into my work and how she throws other options that I never thought about into my work. She is so diligent with commas, quotations, citing and referencing. She makes sure I give credit when I need to and also keeps my story lines moving and flowing.
We have become friends over time and she roots hard for me to be successful. I have to say that she is a big part of any success I may have and she is the kind of force that every writer needs to stay focused on, not only the story, but the structure and presentation of the story. I see us as a team and my role is the imagination and telling of the story in my words. Her role is to “dress it up” so to speak and make it into a presentable format. It’s great that she knows me well enough now to understand and predict where I am taking the story next. She gives me good plot options not just from a writer’s point of view but from the perspective of a potential reader and what they would see.
I asked Linda to speak on her perspective on the writer/editor relationship. Her are a few of her thoughts.
“I started editing when I started teaching high school English after I graduated from college. I brought home a pile of papers each night, using a lot red ink, but hoping that the suggestions that I made would make sense. With each draft of their papers, improvements were being made. Then the day would come when the student would need me less and less. The first book I ever edited was for a preacher who wanted to tell his story. I learned that editing was a process that takes both the author and editor to become a team.”
“The best part of editing are the lightbulb moments when a correction or suggestion is accepted and the connection between author and editor has been accomplished.”
“The worst part of editing is the feeling I get when I know an author has poured their heart and soul into a plot or character, and I have to say "this doesn't really work here" or "how about if you try this instead".
“When it comes down to it, the editor can make suggestions, but the author has the final say. Line editing is easy for me… commas, adverbs, and grammar usage. Content editing is difficult. You are really telling the author that parts of the book aren't right and rewrites must occur.”
There’s a lot of give and take with the author and the editor. The main fact remains, Linda and I work within the teamwork concept. I never take her suggestions personally and see it as a stage of improvement for my writing. One or two key sentences in a paragraph can make it hard for a reader to follow if left unedited. Constructive criticism can improve the whole writing process and I am thankful that I have Linda to do that for me. She is my critic, but she is also my teacher who motivates and pushes for improvement all the time. That’s what good teachers do, right?
If you would like to contact Linda with more questions or would like to use her for one of your works, you can email her at l.knight89@yahoo.com.
Thanks for reading.
July 3, 2019
The Catman
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The Catman
Sometimes I look back and wonder how I found some of the unique people in my life or maybe how they found me! My life changed after meeting the “Catman” during my college days.
I started college in 1972, four hours from home without knowing anyone. I played baseball and football on a scholarship at William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri. My parents drove me to Jewell that August since freshmen weren’t allowed to have cars on campus. Shortly after saying goodbye to my family, I met my roomate, Dan Stephens, another baseball and football player. The name Dan didn’t stick beyond our first weeks at Jewell. He soon earned the title “Catman” after the famous British singer/ songwriter, Cat Stevens.
Cat and I instantly hit it off. We shared similar family backgrounds and interests. It was almost unique how our lives were so similar. Cat grew up in Raytown, a small city in eastern Missouri while I hailed from Union on the westside of the state. He loyally cheered for the Royals, and I relentlessly followed Cardinals baseball. From move-in day until graduation, together we explored the many things life had to offer us as young men. I would look back on these days fondly over the years and count them as some of the best.
We quickly befriended our neighbors on the east side third floor of our dorm: Ed Murphy, Mike Wilson, Dennis Mustoe, Terry Dykes, and Larry Young. Our friend group decided on a nickname, “Third East Beasts” or “TEB.” We collectively discovered our favorite hangouts, Shakey’s Pizza, Kelso’s, and of course any party we could find. But, that’s another story for another day, and one that won’t be written!
Four years of playing ball together meant time on the road, spending hours in between games, discussing things that were deeper than what we initially discussed when we first met. The Third East Beasts shared about our lives, our hopes, dreams, and goals. We talked about our brothers, sisters, and parents. Over time we became like family.
Cat’s parents welcomed me into their home. I couldn’t drive to my hometown freshmen year, so I often found myself at Cat’s instead. His parents, Leroy and Virginia, took care of us. Warm and friendly, our visits to his house always felt special. The meals were out of this world as Virginia would never let us leave hungry. I was lucky to have known Virginia and Leroy and blessed to have them in my life at that time. After college, Cat and I lost touch, and I didn’t see him or his family for many years. However, Cat’s sister initiated our reunion. I met his wife, Debbie, and his daughter, Carissa.
Being reunited after many years was a blessing. We experienced four years of college and four baseball seasons, one of which was a great championship season. When we played our last game at William Jewell, we realized that a pivotal moment of our lives ended. College and baseball contributed so much to our personal growth, and we outgrew it. A year and a half ago Cat and I attended the Hall of Fame ceremony at William Jewell. A proud moment for both of us. Since then, my wife, Sandy, and I hosted the Stephens at our condo and plan to make make more memories together.
Just over a year ago, Virginia passed, and I attended her funeral. I regrettably hadn’t seen her since college. This world truly lost a saint. I was glad I was there to pay my respects, but also felt sad that I missed so much in between.
Life takes us funny places. It was through rough times and adversity that I could have really used my friend’s help. But in my years of struggling, I tried to just “get through” it, making me reclusive and distant from my friends and family. It’s a regret I carry with me still.
You know, you have those friends that when someone mentions them, you say, “I haven’t seen them in years.” You know you should look them up, but you never find the time. Time just passes, and another year goes by then another. You come to regret it later. I would encourage everyone to reunite with a good friend they haven’t visited in awhile. Even though you have missed time, it is never too late to catch up.
Life happens, but I will always treasure the fact that Cat and I talk often now, recalling the good ole days or sharing about our present lives. The Cat will always be the Cat to me. He will always be my college roomie, my baseball teammate, and my friend. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, life comes back to you full circle. It comes by luck, by chance, or sometimes just comes back because the memories always lived in your heart and mind. I prefer to think it is the latter.
March 15, 2019
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The Catman
Sometimes I look back and wonder how I found some of the unique people in my life or maybe how they found me! My life changed after meeting the “Catman” during my college days.
I started college in 1972, four hours from home without knowing anyone. I played baseball and football on a scholarship at William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri. My parents drove me to Jewell that August since freshmen weren’t allowed to have cars on campus. Shortly after saying goodbye to my family, I met my roomate, Dan Stephens, another baseball and football player. The name Dan didn’t stick beyond our first weeks at Jewell. He soon earned the title “Catman” after the famous British singer/ songwriter, Cat Stevens.
Cat and I instantly hit it off. We shared similar family backgrounds and interests. It was almost unique how our lives were so similar. Cat grew up in Raytown, a small city in eastern Missouri while I hailed from Union on the westside of the state. He loyally cheered for the Royals, and I relentlessly followed Cardinals baseball. From move-in day until graduation, together we explored the many things life had to offer us as young men. I would look back on these days fondly over the years and count them as some of the best.
We quickly befriended our neighbors on the east side third floor of our dorm: Ed Murphy, Mike Wilson, Dennis Mustoe, Terry Dykes, and Larry Young. Our friend group decided on a nickname, “Third East Beasts” or “TEB.” We collectively discovered our favorite hangouts, Shakey’s Pizza, Kelso’s, and of course any party we could find. But, that’s another story for another day, and one that won’t be written!
Four years of playing ball together meant time on the road, spending hours in between games, discussing things that were deeper than what we initially discussed when we first met. The Third East Beasts shared about our lives, our hopes, dreams, and goals. We talked about our brothers, sisters, and parents. Over time we became like family.
Cat’s parents welcomed me into their home. I couldn’t drive to my hometown freshmen year, so I often found myself at Cat’s instead. His parents, Leroy and Virginia, took care of us. Warm and friendly, our visits to his house always felt special. The meals were out of this world as Virginia would never let us leave hungry. I was lucky to have known Virginia and Leroy and blessed to have them in my life at that time. After college, Cat and I lost touch, and I didn’t see him or his family for many years. However, Cat’s sister initiated our reunion. I met his wife, Debbie, and his daughter, Carissa.
Being reunited after many years was a blessing. We experienced four years of college and four baseball seasons, one of which was a great championship season. When we played our last game at William Jewell, we realized that a pivotal moment of our lives ended. College and baseball contributed so much to our personal growth, and we outgrew it. A year and a half ago Cat and I attended the Hall of Fame ceremony at William Jewell. A proud moment for both of us. Since then, my wife, Sandy, and I hosted the Stephens at our condo and plan to make make more memories together.
Just over a year ago, Virginia passed, and I attended her funeral. I regrettably hadn’t seen her since college. This world truly lost a saint. I was glad I was there to pay my respects, but also felt sad that I missed so much in between.
Life takes us funny places. It was through rough times and adversity that I could have really used my friend’s help. But in my years of struggling, I tried to just “get through” it, making me reclusive and distant from my friends and family. It’s a regret I carry with me still.
You know, you have those friends that when someone mentions them, you say, “I haven’t seen them in years.” You know you should look them up, but you never find the time. Time just passes, and another year goes by then another. You come to regret it later. I would encourage everyone to reunite with a good friend they haven’t visited in awhile. Even though you have missed time, it is never too late to catch up.
Life happens, but I will always treasure the fact that Cat and I talk often now, recalling the good ole days or sharing about our present lives. The Cat will always be the Cat to me. He will always be my college roomie, my baseball teammate, and my friend. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, life comes back to you full circle. It comes by luck, by chance, or sometimes just comes back because the memories always lived in your heart and mind. I prefer to think it is the latter.
March 15, 2019
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Why I Write
© malcolm tanner
rogdog555@gmail.com
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June 25, 2019
Why I Write
Why I Write
Many people wonder why an author started writing in the first place. I have thought about this from my own perspective and documented with a few things that motivated me along the way.
I had a great high school English Teacher.
I had one of the best teachers for high school English. She taught me to love good books and how to read for meaning. I will never forget the days spent in the classroom on book discussions that broke down the plots and characters. Without her guidance, I may have never developed the interest in discovering the great authors and reading their works for deeper meaning.
I am a people watcher.
I have always observed people and realized that every person has a story. Observing their actions, expressions and listening to conversations, I often find something to write about. Many characters in my stories are based on many of my observations. They are never real people, but take on some characteristics of other people I have studied. It tends to spur my imagination and make some of my characters come to life.
Some have asked me before, “Is that character about me?” I ask them back, “Do you want that character to be you?” It’s funny how they will pause at that answer. I think some people see some things in each character that at times may reflect something in their lives. I encourage readers to place themselves into the story.
Music and writing both tell stories.
I always ask myself what comes first, writing the story or writing the music? It’s kind of like the chicken and the egg. I listen to several genres of music and wonder if my book was a movie, would be in the soundtrack. Sometimes, I listen to a song and hope that it will set me in the right mood to compose a chapter or scene. I want the reader to feel what I feel when I am writing. If the scene is tense and intimidating, I want the reader to almost hear that type of background music when they read it. If the scene is more melancholy, I’ll slow my music down to the more mellow and contemporary love songs. Reading and music are two art forms that, at least for me, go hand in hand.
I love to write about the human condition.
I like to write about conflicted people. It is the conflicts in our lives that cause us to think more deeply about things like right and wrong, good and bad, heroes and villains. I want people to think about these characters and see their conflict. I want them to help the characters overcome their adversity. I want them to think about their own conditions and their own set of problems and how they would choose to solve them for the character. Every reader likes to choose the ending they would like to see for the characters. The author writes just one ending. It may or may not agree with what the reader wanted, but I want the readers to be able to discuss with others how they did want it to end.
A quote by Oscar Wilde says, “The only difference between the saint and the sinner, is that every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.” It is a quote that describes many of the characters in my books. They are neither as good or bad as they seem. I want to give them that characteristic.
Many people wonder why an author started writing in the first place. I have thought about this from my own perspective and documented with a few things that motivated me along the way.
I had a great high school English Teacher.
I had one of the best teachers for high school English. She taught me to love good books and how to read for meaning. I will never forget the days spent in the classroom on book discussions that broke down the plots and characters. Without her guidance, I may have never developed the interest in discovering the great authors and reading their works for deeper meaning.
I am a people watcher.
I have always observed people and realized that every person has a story. Observing their actions, expressions and listening to conversations, I often find something to write about. Many characters in my stories are based on many of my observations. They are never real people, but take on some characteristics of other people I have studied. It tends to spur my imagination and make some of my characters come to life.
Some have asked me before, “Is that character about me?” I ask them back, “Do you want that character to be you?” It’s funny how they will pause at that answer. I think some people see some things in each character that at times may reflect something in their lives. I encourage readers to place themselves into the story.
Music and writing both tell stories.
I always ask myself what comes first, writing the story or writing the music? It’s kind of like the chicken and the egg. I listen to several genres of music and wonder if my book was a movie, would be in the soundtrack. Sometimes, I listen to a song and hope that it will set me in the right mood to compose a chapter or scene. I want the reader to feel what I feel when I am writing. If the scene is tense and intimidating, I want the reader to almost hear that type of background music when they read it. If the scene is more melancholy, I’ll slow my music down to the more mellow and contemporary love songs. Reading and music are two art forms that, at least for me, go hand in hand.
I love to write about the human condition.
I like to write about conflicted people. It is the conflicts in our lives that cause us to think more deeply about things like right and wrong, good and bad, heroes and villains. I want people to think about these characters and see their conflict. I want them to help the characters overcome their adversity. I want them to think about their own conditions and their own set of problems and how they would choose to solve them for the character. Every reader likes to choose the ending they would like to see for the characters. The author writes just one ending. It may or may not agree with what the reader wanted, but I want the readers to be able to discuss with others how they did want it to end.
A quote by Oscar Wilde says, “The only difference between the saint and the sinner, is that every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.” It is a quote that describes many of the characters in my books. They are neither as good or bad as they seem. I want to give them that characteristic.
When Friendship Ends
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When Friendship Ends?
Friendship can end for many difficult reasons -- disagreements, living far apart geographically, or even just lives going in different directions. Death is the most hurtful ending though. Since my best friend, Tim, passed, I’ve taken time to reflect, grieve, and celebrate our friendship.
Tim Murray and I met as young boys who loved baseball. We played together on Little League teams, collegiate teams, traveling teams, and men’s league teams. Baseball brought us together and kept us inseparable for many years. Every win and loss strengthened our bond. We became more than teammates; we became best friends.
As children and young men, our personalities differed. Tim was funny, adventurous, and aggressive. I was less aggressive, quiet, and not nearly as funny. He was great to be around and left me many times better for trying to be like him. I’d say we had our share of good times together and maybe sometimes too much fun.
Throughout adulthood, we lived far apart but always gravitated back to each other eventually. After Tim’s passing, I tried to figure out how that happened. It’s rare when childhood friends separate, they reconnect. We always seemed to be able to meet up again and continue where we left off.
Life threw Tim more curve balls than most people face. He and his wife lost a three-year-old son to leukemia. Through the grief and hardship, he continued to work hard and built a long, successful career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He raised two other sons, Matt and Joel, who are now married and caring for their own families.
Then, came the bout with colon cancer. In Tim fashion, he recovered quickly and got back out on the golf course. I visited him shortly after recovery. We took our dads to spring training games and reminisced about the “old days” on the ballfield. Tim played shortstop while I played second baseman - the double play combination. We just played well together, always trusting each other to be where needed. Off the field, it wasn’t exactly like that. We sometimes drifted apart and lost track of each other. We always reconnected though.
Tim once again battled health issues in his final years. He suffered a couple of strokes, lost some vision, and struggled with balance. I flew to Florida to visit and help him through the rehabilitation process. One day we drove to the beach and sat quietly while looking out over the water. I felt we were both going through the memories silently recalling all that we had been through together, good times and bad.
I went back home three days later and would call every couple of days or so to check on him. We also texted often. I texted him one last time, and I told him “get better, buddy. You’re a fighter.” And his text back to me was “6-4-3,” which in baseball terms meant a double play, shortstop to the second baseman to first base. That was our position in baseball and in life. Sometimes it was 6-4-3, sometimes it was 4-6-3, but we always did that together. His text answer was so appropriate.
Tim died on March 13, 2019. Our lifetime friendship ended. Gone. A lifetime.
On our way to his Celebration of Life, I sat quietly. I was going to give a eulogy for my best friend, and I had never given a eulogy for anyone. I told myself I was going to do this right and the way that Tim would have liked. I cried when I wrote it, but I wasn’t going to do that at the Celebration of Life. Tim wouldn’t want me to cry.
I delivered a speech from my heart, one that will be etched in my mind forever. The words were mine, they described Tim the best way I knew how.
Here is how my speech ended. I pray that he heard it.
“Yes, if there is baseball in heaven, and Lord I hope there is, my prayer is this, that you let us play one more 9 inning game together, 3-2 score, we are leading in the bottom of the ninth, the other team has the bases loaded, and there is only 1 out. Please let the last batter hit one to short because I know we will turn it, yes, 6-4-3.”
Tim, hold the infield down until I get there because I hope there is baseball in heaven. Even when friendship ends in the physical sense when someone passes away, it really doesn’t end. It never ends. People say, “You just move on from that.” I say no, you don’t move on, you remember. Every day. The things we went through, the things we did together, the good times and the bad will always be there. You own those things forever.
Here’s to you, Tim. Our friendship never ends.
For me, it never will.
Purchase
When Friendship Ends?
Friendship can end for many difficult reasons -- disagreements, living far apart geographically, or even just lives going in different directions. Death is the most hurtful ending though. Since my best friend, Tim, passed, I’ve taken time to reflect, grieve, and celebrate our friendship.
Tim Murray and I met as young boys who loved baseball. We played together on Little League teams, collegiate teams, traveling teams, and men’s league teams. Baseball brought us together and kept us inseparable for many years. Every win and loss strengthened our bond. We became more than teammates; we became best friends.
As children and young men, our personalities differed. Tim was funny, adventurous, and aggressive. I was less aggressive, quiet, and not nearly as funny. He was great to be around and left me many times better for trying to be like him. I’d say we had our share of good times together and maybe sometimes too much fun.
Throughout adulthood, we lived far apart but always gravitated back to each other eventually. After Tim’s passing, I tried to figure out how that happened. It’s rare when childhood friends separate, they reconnect. We always seemed to be able to meet up again and continue where we left off.
Life threw Tim more curve balls than most people face. He and his wife lost a three-year-old son to leukemia. Through the grief and hardship, he continued to work hard and built a long, successful career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He raised two other sons, Matt and Joel, who are now married and caring for their own families.
Then, came the bout with colon cancer. In Tim fashion, he recovered quickly and got back out on the golf course. I visited him shortly after recovery. We took our dads to spring training games and reminisced about the “old days” on the ballfield. Tim played shortstop while I played second baseman - the double play combination. We just played well together, always trusting each other to be where needed. Off the field, it wasn’t exactly like that. We sometimes drifted apart and lost track of each other. We always reconnected though.
Tim once again battled health issues in his final years. He suffered a couple of strokes, lost some vision, and struggled with balance. I flew to Florida to visit and help him through the rehabilitation process. One day we drove to the beach and sat quietly while looking out over the water. I felt we were both going through the memories silently recalling all that we had been through together, good times and bad.
I went back home three days later and would call every couple of days or so to check on him. We also texted often. I texted him one last time, and I told him “get better, buddy. You’re a fighter.” And his text back to me was “6-4-3,” which in baseball terms meant a double play, shortstop to the second baseman to first base. That was our position in baseball and in life. Sometimes it was 6-4-3, sometimes it was 4-6-3, but we always did that together. His text answer was so appropriate.
Tim died on March 13, 2019. Our lifetime friendship ended. Gone. A lifetime.
On our way to his Celebration of Life, I sat quietly. I was going to give a eulogy for my best friend, and I had never given a eulogy for anyone. I told myself I was going to do this right and the way that Tim would have liked. I cried when I wrote it, but I wasn’t going to do that at the Celebration of Life. Tim wouldn’t want me to cry.
I delivered a speech from my heart, one that will be etched in my mind forever. The words were mine, they described Tim the best way I knew how.
Here is how my speech ended. I pray that he heard it.
“Yes, if there is baseball in heaven, and Lord I hope there is, my prayer is this, that you let us play one more 9 inning game together, 3-2 score, we are leading in the bottom of the ninth, the other team has the bases loaded, and there is only 1 out. Please let the last batter hit one to short because I know we will turn it, yes, 6-4-3.”
Tim, hold the infield down until I get there because I hope there is baseball in heaven. Even when friendship ends in the physical sense when someone passes away, it really doesn’t end. It never ends. People say, “You just move on from that.” I say no, you don’t move on, you remember. Every day. The things we went through, the things we did together, the good times and the bad will always be there. You own those things forever.
Here’s to you, Tim. Our friendship never ends.
For me, it never will.
