BWW member John Maxwell has not published any books yet. He is working on a young adult fiction story about a troubled boy who encounters an old wise man who agrees to take him down river in a canoe so the boy can reach his ailing mother. John is also working on a non-fiction book that shares the lessons he’s learned as a sales training mentor to small business owners. In this interview he shares his thoughts on the unromantic parts of being a not-yet published writer.
How often do you stare at a blank screen and produce nothing worthwhile?
It happens frequently. Too often I sit down with the intention to write and I have nothing in my head. Sometimes I’d just jump into it and write a few paragraphs. Then I read it and decide that what I have written is crap and I just delete it. I know the formula to break this is to change my surroundings or immerse myself in other creative work. When my brain is re-stimulated, the content can begin to flow again. Continue reading
Dorothy Winsor is a former English professor at Iowa State University who taught technical writing. She served as editor of the Journal of Business and Technical Communication and won six national awards for her research on the communication practices of engineers. After retiring, she turned her talent to writing for a much different audience. She now writes young adult fantasy books published by U.K.-based Inspired Quill.
Cynthia Ripley Miller brings the past to life through her Long-Hair book series set in fifth century Rome. Miller holds two degrees and has taught history and English classes. Her third book “A Sword Among Ravens” was just published.
Carol Cosman’s first novel “Dissonance” is planned for publication in spring, 2021. The novel traces a young woman’s efforts to save her father from death in a Russian gulag. Carol holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and a Master’s Degree in Teaching. A former educator, she taught creative writing to children and teens.
The Barrington Writers Workshop is happy to announce the addition of this community blog page to our website. The blog is by members, for members and those interested in learning more about our group. Each month the blog will highlight a BWW member, offer writing prompts , and call for inspirational essays related to the writing life. We want different voices heard on the blog so don’t be shy. Do keep the focus on the writing community if you wish to submit anything.