Kate Kasten has a new book out!

One of the best writers I know -- who also happens to be a dear friend -- has a new novel out. I just ordered copies from amazon.com and you can too. (The link is over there on the right.) If you know other fiction lovers who are appalled by the influence of Christian fundamentalism creeping into government, please pass the word along about this novel. I think people will also find it a good read even if they aren't interested in religion or politics. At least go take a look at the gorgeous cover!

I'm baaaack

Summer is ending and writing time is picking up. I'm at work on a new full-length play, using the methods described in "Save the Cat" by Blake Snyder (he died recently and suddenly from a pulmonary embolism -- the same thing I had in May, but I survived). "Save the Cat" is a book for screenwriters, but I'm convinced one can use those excellent methods for any piece of writing -- stage play, screenplay, memoir, novel or short story. Maybe for poetry although I'm no poet so can't say.
I've rejoined Writer Island, an online group of writers who commit to turning in 15 pages per week or get kicked off the Island (for a week). I stayed with the group for months while I "finished" my memoir. Now that I've spent 18 weeks reading it aloud on the radio, I can see it isn't finished at all, but instead needs tightening, rewriting -- a tune-up! So in addition to working on the new play, I'm also working to ACTUALLY finish the memoir.
What did you do on YOUR summer vacation?

Two more to go!

Well kiddos, we're nearing the end of the book! Two more Tuesday nights and the end of the memoir will be here. I hope you're enjoying it as much as I am enjoying reading it to you, and that you'll come back to hear me read my mystery novel, The Hounding.
Also, coming up the first week of June, Lillian and I will be conducting a workshop in writing for radio theatre. I've done some of this myself and will be leading the workshop. The number of participants will be limited to ten however, in order for everyone to receive individual feedback on her or his writing. We'll be doing this over the internet, conference room style, webcam, in 90 minute sessions for 6 weeks. So if this is something you've wanted to try, this is the place to come because you'll be workshopping in an actual (well virtual) radio station.
All best to all of you. Hope to see you on the webcam soon! sdh