by Pamela Beason | Jun 16, 2012 | #WriteTip, The Writing Life
Every novel has a plot, which is the story line (what happens). But most good novels also have a theme, which is the underlying message the writer wants the readers to understand. Most authors include themes naturally in their writing, but it’s important to...
by Pamela Beason | Dec 31, 2011 | Natural Wonders, The Writing Life
Of all the holidays we Americans typically celebrate, I love New Year’s the most. I know it’s arbitrary, but it’s nice to have a date when I can reset my expectations. Somehow, at midnight on December 31, I can celebrate the victories for the past year, let go of...
by Pamela Beason | Nov 2, 2011 | Everyday Chaos, The Writing Life
There’s nothing more boring than reading about characters who have no flaws. Why? Because they don’t seem human, of course. Even if your character is a werewolf or from another planet, as readers we want to feel that we have something in common. And if...
by Pamela Beason | Sep 3, 2010 | Natural Wonders
I just got back from a four-day kayak trip to the Broken Group, in Barkley Sound on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island. What a great place to kayak! Dozens of islands and hundreds of rocks, beautiful Pacific waters, sea lions, deer, porpoises and whales (okay,...