The One with the Novel in November

So a lady at church tells me about Nanowrimo, which is short for National Novel Writer's Month. They are a non-profit website dedicated to helping writers write. The ghist is that you have 30 days to produce a novel-length draft of 50,000 words, or approximately 150 pages. You sign up on the website and starting November 1, start kicking out the words. This is supposed to be unedited--the key is output so put your inner critics and inner editors aside, locking them in the closet until November 30. Furthermore, it is supposed to be a new work, not that novel you've been working on for four years.

The website says that of the 100,000 last year who signed up, 15,000 accomplished the goal, so it isn't easy, but it is attainable. When you submit your work for counting purposes, there is an online scrambler that protects your content, so there is no fear of plagiarism. I'm taking the challenge, and I invite all my literary friends to do likewise. (Tiffany, Melissa, this means you!)

GI Joe

I had a lot of fun with this movie. If you are looking for a heady plot, with deep-seated emotion, look elsewhere. This was an action ride from start to finish, with a constant stream of explosions throughout. The goal of this film must have been to deal with backstory in as efficient manner possible. And it worked. ***

The One with...Um...Nothing Much

I haven't blogged in a while as I've been kind of down. And that hasn't changed much. Primarily due to the job situation. I have a wonderful wife, a great healthy baby, loving family, a few good friends, and a supportive church. I need to get a second job as we can't afford to continue on with my earning an assistant's salary. Prospects creep up occasionally, and nothing has panned out as yet. I am growing steadily more discouraged. Anywho...

Wishsong of Shannara by Terry Brooks

Loved it, loved it, loved it. This third installment is an epic tale of the descendants of the Ohmsfords and the Leahs, dragged into adventure by the enigmatic Druid Allanon to once again save the world. The supporting characters this go around are really engrossing--I especially liked Slanter, the Gnomish Hunter. While the quest is somewhat formulaic, it is a formula that works. This grand adventure ends the three book generational storyline in satisfying fashion. ****