Weather Only Whets Appetite for Literature

Did last weekend’s rain put a damper on the festivities? Not really.

The National Book Festival, which usually boasts about 100,000 visitors, actually topped 120,000 despite the puddle-pocked walkways along the National Mall and the overcast skies that drizzled on readers and writers. Readers flocked to meet such authors as Salman Rushdie, Neil Gaiman, Bob Schieffer, David Shannon, Dionne Warwick, Andrea Davis Pickney, Charles S. Smith Jr., Geraldine Brooks, Peter Robinson, Warren Brown, Cokie Roberts, Kimberly Dozier, Arthur & Pauline Frommer, Dan Chiasson and Jill Allyn Rosser.

Children enjoyed new books by authors like Laura and Jenna Bush, Tiki Barber, and R.L. Stein. Children also noticed special decorations along the walkways on all the lamp posts: free magnets announcing Flightless Goose and the book’s website, www.RunGoose.com. Flightless Goose was also represented with fliers, magnets, and gift bags, at the big event in Baltimore.

And how about the Mid Atlantic region's most important celebration of the literary arts—the Baltimore Book Festival? The “typhoon” may have kept some of the fainter souls away, but it only whet the appetites of die-hard literary buffs. Thousands of people gathered around the original Washington Monument to celebrate books and all things literary.

Headliners included such authors as Walter Mosley, T.D. Jakes, Madison Smartt Bell, Rafael Alvarez, Michael Kimball, Jen Michalski, and even Mark Twain. (That last one may have been an imposter). Tim Wendell read from his novel Red Rain and conducted a writing workshop.

As in past years, the CityLit tent was a hot spot. That’s where there was a reading of the Freshly Squeezed anthology on Saturday (which features my story “One Last Hit” from Tracks, a novel in stories) and a reading from New Lines from the Old Line State: An Anthology of Maryland Writers on Sunday (which features my story “Cicadas.”)

Speaking of Maryland writers, the Maryland Writers’ Association tent always had a crowd collected around it, garnering much interest with the commune story (passer-bys could add a line) and information for and about Maryland writers.

As Paul Lagasse (President of MWA’s Baltimore Chapter) coined, the Book Fest is the “Literary New Year’s” celebration for writers.

Visit The Baltimore Sun’s book blog, Read Street, for another recap.

And visit the Library of Congress’s Book Fest page for podcasts from featured authors.

http://www.loc.gov/podcasts/


Happy Literary New Year, readers!

New Lines at Baltimore Book Festival

The new anthology Marylanders have been waiting for is premiering at the Baltimore book Festival - the mid-Atlantic's largest celebration of the literary arts - this weekend.

That is fitting, since the anthology is a celebration of the rich and diverse literary scene in the state of Maryland.

New Lines from the Old Line State: An Anthology of Maryland Writers features fiction, poetry, and nonfiction by 29 Maryland authors.

On September 26, 27, and 28, the Maryland Writers' Association will release the exciting new anthology of Maryland authors. A reading from the anthology will close out the Baltimore Book Festival's CityLit tent on Sunday, September 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. Authors will be on hand to autograph the anthologies.

The authors of New Lines have been featured in publications such as Potomac Review, the Baltimore Review, Christian Science Monitor, Chattahoochee Review, Slow Trains, the Arabesques Review, Poetry Online, Chesapeake Life magazine, the Washington Post, the Baltimore Sun, Writers Weekly, Scribble, and have won awards from the Maryland Literary Arts Award, the Maryland Individual Artist Award, and the Atlantic Monthly, among others.

A Maryland author is unique, just like the state itself. A person needs to spend a day in Maryland (or read an anthology of its writers) to understand what "Mid-Atlantic" means. There is an indefinable "something" in Maryland that makes it different than Northeast or South; it straddles both regions but can be claimed by neither.

This anthology features the best work of the Maryland Writers' Association, which has served the state for more than 20 years. New Lines continues Maryland's literary legacy-one that stretches as far back as America's written history.

Maryland's cities and shores have inspired such literary greats as Edgar Allan Poe, and Gertrude Stein, as well as more contemporary writers such as Madison Smartt Bell and Laura Lippman. A flag atop Maryland's Fort McHenry was even Francis Scott Key's inspiration for our nation's national anthem.

You will enjoy and celebrate the artistic vision of Maryland authors as they take you on a tour of the state and beyond.

New Lines from the Old Line State has it all. Edited by Allyson E. Peltier, the anthology is $15.95. Can't make the Baltimore Book Festival this year? You can ask for New Lines at your local book store. Or visit the Maryland Writers' Association's online book shop at www.marylandwriters.org/publications.html.

Literary Advice from Top Editors

Many writers — from the aspiring to the established — already know about the impressive highlights of the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference coming up this October 25 in Rockville, Md. Registrants will have the opportunity to learn from such pros as Elmore “Dutch” Leonard, Susan Cheever, George Pelecanos, Laura Lippman, and many others. Writers can participate in workshops with subjects ranging from novel structure to the relationship between authors and publishers.

For the first time, the Fitzgerald Conference now offers writers the opportunity of a one-on-one meeting with a literary magazine editor (Gettysburg Review, Narrative, Blackbird) or literary consultant Amy Holman. This is an opportunity to sit face-to-face for 20 minutes discussing your manuscript in a scheduled appointment.

How it works:

-- once you’ve registered for the conference, you can sign up for an appointment with the consultant of your choice for only $30.
-- you’ll have the opportunity to submit 10-15 manuscript pages – the deadline is Friday, October 10.
-- during the conference, you’ll sit down with the literary consultant and discuss your work.

It’s that easy. This is a rare opportunity to get face time with a professional. The consults will be offered during the morning and afternoon workshop times, so no one will miss Elmore Leonard, Laura Lippman, Michael Dirda, George Pelecanos, or Susan Cheever.

Participating editors include …

Mark Drew of The Gettysburg Review
Gregory Donovan of Blackbird
Patricia Schultheis of Narrative.
Mary Flinn of Blackbird
Amy Holman, literary consultant

Space is limited, so what are you waiting for? Register today at www.montgomerycollege.edu/potomacreview/fscott/ or call (301) 309-9461.

First come first scheduled for these consultations. Your manuscript must be received by October 11 (Fiction 12-15 pages, Poetry 5-7 pages).

Listen to Cicadas Here

It's been a few years since the last outbreak of Cicadas. But from all the recent buzz, it seems they've returned.

My short story, "Cicadas," appeared on National Public Radio's Baltimore station, WYPR, earlier this month. "Cicadas" opened up the weekly radio program, The Signal, NPR's "weekly tour through hidden corners of Maryland's cultural landscape." The program aired at 12 noon and again at 7 p.m. on Friday, September 5.

WYPR had this to say about the story: "Many a florid metaphor has been penned about the buzz of young romance, but Signal contributor Eric D. Goodman may be the first to compare it a seething horde of insects. He joins us with a skeptic's love story called Cicadas."

The "Cicadas" reading even infested the Baltimore Sun.

Not to mention the CityLit Project.

Missed the broadcast? Then find out what the buzz is about! Listen to NPR's pod cast of this "story about romance, cynicism and a wedding set against the otherworldly buzz of Horde X."


Or, go directly to the "Cicadacast" here.


Learn more about The Signal, and even see a picture of a Cicada, at their website.
http://www.signalradio.org/index.php?p=359

Flightless Goose To Be Released

Flightless Goose has an official release date.

On November 1, Writers’ Lair Books will release Flightless Goose as a full-color hardcover book. The 32-page book is available now at www.RunGoose.com.

Flightless Goose is written by me and illustrated by my wife, Nataliya Goodman.

In the book, the flightless goose must learn to tolerate teasing and the challenges of being different. He is even left behind as the geese fly south for the winter. In the end, the flightless goose develops a talent no other goose has, and that helps him save the day.

The publisher has announced that all pre-orders placed before November 1 will receive a 10 percent discount, and the copies will be autographed by both the author and the artist. The book will be available in book stores, but to get to discount, order now at http://www.writerslairbooks.com/goodman1.html.


Visit www.RunGoose.com to learn more about Flightless Goose.

Cicadas Infest NPR

This Friday, September 5, I’ll read from my fiction on WYPR, Baltimore’s National Public Radio station. The Signal will broadcast my reading of “Cicadas.”

“Cicadas” is a work of fiction published in New Lines from the Old Line State: An Anthology of Maryland Writers. The anthology, as Editor Allyson E. Peltier put it, “features a rich collection of contemporary literature” from “stylistically and culturally diverse writers.”

“Cicadas” is about a playboy returning to Virginia to be the best man in his friend’s wedding. Cicadas are everywhere. Stu believes his friend’s newfound romance is doomed to a cicada cycle — a brief buzz of excitement followed by years of monotony.

Tune in to Baltimore’s WYPR at 88.1 FM this Friday to hear me read from the anthology. The Signal airs at 12 noon and 7 p.m. every Friday. My fiction will be featured on the programs of Friday, September 5 -- This Friday. Or, tune in online at http://www.signalradio.org.

Learn more about Baltimore’s NPR station, WYPR at their website.

http://www.wypr.org/

Or learn more about The Signal here.

http://www.signalradio.org/

Quick! Visit RunGoose.com!

If you thought my former neighbor Michael Phelps was quick as he racked up Olympic Gold, you’ll be blown away by the Flightless Goose. If you blink, you may miss him. So hurry and check him out at www.RunGoose.com!

Flightless Goose is a new childrens’ book being published this fall by Writers’ Lair Books. I wrote the book and my wife, Nataliya, painted the beautiful watercolor illustrations.

The website is live and the online pond is open for your enjoyment. Jump right in at www.RunGoose.com.

Or, take a gander at the publisher’s page devoted to Flightless Goose at www.writerslairbooks.com/goodman1.html

Enjoy Lit & Art This Labor Day Weekend

Come celebrate Labor Day in high bohemian style! On Sunday, August 31 at 2 p.m., the Watermark Gallery in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor continues its Lit and Art series. You’ll find that Lit and Art is a labor of love.

Returning writers include Lauren Beth Eisenberg, Eric D. Goodman, Nitin Jagdish, and Cliff Lynn.

In what hopes to be a permanent feature of the series, there will be live music. Lit and Art perennial Erik Kestler and his band will perform.

A collection of surreal artwork by Manzar Rassouli-Taylorr will be on display.

Started in October 2007, the Lit and Art series provides a unique opportunity to sample a variety of artistic sensibilities. Like previous events in this series, it is free and open to the public. Complimentary wine and refreshments will be served, and audience members will have a chance to share their own work during the open mic session.

The Watermark Gallery is located in the Bank of America Center Skywalk Level, right across from the Inner Harbor, at 100 S. Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The phone number is (410) 547-0452.

Learn more about the Watermark at their online gallery.

http://www.manzar.net/

Learn more about the “Lit and Art” reading event at Writeful.

http://www.writeful.blogspot.com/

Maryland's Literary Legacy Lives in New Anthology

A new anthology, due out on September 15, celebrates the rich and diverse literary scene in the state of Maryland.

New Lines from the Old Line State: An Anthology of Maryland Writers features 36 pieces of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction by 29 Maryland authors.

The authors of New Lines have been featured in publications such as Potomac Review, the Baltimore Review, Christian Science Monitor, Chattahoochee Review, Slow Trains, the Arabesques Review, Poetry Online, Chesapeake Life magazine, the Washington Post, the Baltimore Sun, Writers Weekly, and have been winners of the Maryland Literary Arts Award, the Maryland Individual Artist Award, and awards from the Atlantic Monthly, among others.

A Maryland author is unique, just like the state itself. A person needs to spend a day in Maryland (or read an anthology of its writers) to understand what “Mid-Atlantic” means. There is an indefinable “something” in Maryland that makes it different than Northeast or South; it straddles both regions but can be claimed by neither. Each city and county has its own distinct character that further flavors the language and imagery of its artists. Lush, early springs to hot, sauna-like summers to long, beautiful autumns and mild winters. Harbors filled with boats. Rolling hills dotted with farms. Cicadas. Cherry blossoms.

Maryland’s cities and shores have inspired such literary greats as Edgar Allan Poe and Gertrude Stein, as well as more contemporary writers such as Madison Smartt Bell and Laura Lippman. The bombardment of Maryland’s Fort McHenry was even Francis Scott Key’s inspiration for America’s national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner.”

You’ll enjoy and celebrate the artistic vision of Maryland authors as they take you on a tour of the state and beyond. With seven essays, fourteen poems, and fifteen short stories in genres ranging from mystery to fantasy to literary fiction, New Lines from the Old Line State has it all.

Edited by Allyson E. Peltier, the anthology is $15.95. You can find it at your local bookstore or via the Maryland Writers’ Association’s website: www.marylandwriters.org

Cicadas in Print

My fiction is being published in the anthology New Lines from the Old Line State!

New Lines from the Old Line State: An Anthology of Maryland Writers features fiction, poetry, and nonfiction by 29 Maryland authors. It is edited by Allyson E. Peltier.

My story, "Cicadas," follows a man returning to Virginia for the first time in seventeen years to be the best man in his friend’s wedding. The cicadas have returned for the first time in seventeen years as well. Stu believes his friend’s newfound romance is doomed to a cicada cycle — a brief buzz of excitement to be followed by years of mundane monotony.

The new anthology Marylanders have been waiting for is premiering in September at the Baltimore Book Festival — the mid-Atlantic’s largest celebration of the literary arts. It will also be available in bookstores and online.

Be on the lookout for more news on the anthology, the book festival, and more coming down the line soon!

McDermott on Drafts

We've all heard it: writing is rewriting. A first draft should never be considered complete. In order to be successful as a writer, it's important not to fall in love with your own first draft.

Alice McDermott knows a thing or two about the various stages of a successful novel. Here's her take.

"The first draft is spillage." A writer should just let the words and story flow from you without regard to rules, structure, plot, character development, what makes sense, what doesn't jive. Write the first draft from your heart, as it comes to you. Hey, it's only a first draft.

"Then," McDermott suggests, "write at least three drafts. In rewrites, spend the time, don't try to save time. Hone the prose, shape it, redo it. Don't just re-copy with minor edits-that's the easy way out."

With the soul of your first draft already on paper, the second, third, and any additional drafts should be where the true craftsmanship comes in. Sculpt your clay into something wonderful and unique, something others will want to read as well as yourself.

"A Novel should evolve from its own predictable themes," McDermott suggests. And those themes will be present in your first draft. "

F. Scott Fitzgerald's Legacy Lives in Honored Authors

The newest recipient of the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Award is Elmore “Dutch” Leonard, the prolific author of 42 novels and countless short stories, many of them household names: 3:10 to Yuma, Get Shorty, Rum Punch, The Big Bounce, and 52 Pickup.

Leonard joins a list of impressive and diverse honorees. Given each year at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference in Rockville Maryland, the coveted award has been granted to thirteen world-renowned authors.

One such author is the late Norman Mailer. Mailer, known best for The Naked and the Dead but also for his sometimes controversial writing and views, accepted the award at the annual F. Scott Fitzgerald Conference in 2000.

John Updike received the honor in 2002. One of the most well-known writers living today, Updike has written 22 novels and more than a dozen collections of short fiction—from the Rabbit favorites to his most recent Terrorist.

E.L. Doctorow came to Rockville to receive his Fitzgerald in 1999. That was before his most recent bestseller, The March, but after the fame of Ragtime, hailed by critics as the best novel of the 1990s.

Acclaimed literary novelist Joyce Carol Oates, author of such novels as Them and The Gravedigger’s Daughter, came to the Fitzgerald Conference to receive accept her honor in 1998.

In 2001, long after A Kiss Before Dying, Ernest J. Gaines received his Fitzgerald. And the award does not go to novelists alone. Playwright Edward Albee accepted the award in 2003.

That’s just the beginning of the impressive list of honorees. Others to receive the honor at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Conference in Rockville include William Styron (the first recipient), John Barth, Grace Paley, Pat Conroy, and Jane Smiley.

The most recent recipient, William J. Kennedy, accepted his Fitzgerald at the last conference, on October 13, 2007. After receiving his award, the author of Ironweed spoke of his own writing experiences, his fondness for F. Scott Fitzgerald, and even read passages from his new, still-unpublished novel.

Learn more about Dutch Leonard and his acceptance of the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Award by reading the recent profile in The Washington Post.

www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/26/AR2008052602219.html


Visit Dutch Leonard at his website.

www.elmoreleonard.com/

And be sure to make plans to see Elmore “Dutch” Leonard in person at the next F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference on October 25, 2008. Stay tuned to the conference website for details as they come.

www.montgomerycollege.edu/potomacreview/fscott/

Bathsheba Monk Explains Everything

Here at Writeful, I strive to provide readers with a quick fix of literature at least once each week. Whether it’s advice from an experienced author, news about an upcoming literary event, a report on a conference or reading, thoughts about a writing process, or sharing a recently published work, you can count on Writeful to give you your lit bit fix.

But sometimes, you may want another writer’s perspective – someone who can explain everything simply.

Just for fun, check out Bathsheba Monk's new blog, Bathsheba Monk Explains Everything. Bathsheba has discovered the instant gratification of blogging while she finishes up her next book, a novel, Nude Walker which will be published by Farrar, Straus, and Giroux in 2010. Nude Walker is a follow up to her popular book Now You See It … Stories from Cokesville, PA.

Visit Bathsheba’s blog at the link below.

www.bathshebamonk.blogspot.com

Looking to Look Through a Looking Glass?

If you’re looking to look through a looking glass with a slightly different perspective, have we got a show for you.

Local theatre artist Scott Davis's original adaptation of Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking Glass premiers at the Capital Fringe Festival on Thursday July 10 at 6 p.m., with subsequent performances on Sunday July 13 at 2 p.m., Wednesday July 16 at 8 p.m., and Sunday July 20 at 8 p.m.. A montage of drama, movement and puppetry set to Daniel Davis' musical score, Through the Looking Glass epitomizes the mantra of the festival: risk-taking, independent performing arts. Venue is The Shop, 607 New York Avenue NW, in DC.

For more, look through the online glass at www.capfringe.org.

The Flightless Goose on The Today Show

Last Wednesday, there was a big event on The Today Show – America’s number one morning show. No, we’re not talking about the wedding. The Flightless Goose made an appearance on The Today Show to announce the new website.

To promote our childrens’ book, The Flightless Goose, my wife Nataliya (the illustrator) and I (the author) went to Rockefeller Plaza during the taping of the show with a handmade poster announcing the publication of The Flightless Goose and launching the brand-new website.

As Matt spoke to the camera inside Studio 1A, “RunGoose” appeared above his head, curving over it like a hat. It appeared for a good 20 or 30 seconds as Matt came on and off screen.

Later during the show, Al Roker gave his animated weather report, part of it in front of the RunGoose sign.

Meredith Vieria saw our RunGoose sign and even asked us for a copy once it goes to print in the fall.

As you may have guessed, the official website for The Flightless Goose is …

www.RunGoose.com

Go to the online pond today! And visit often to be the first to know about the release date, how to get advance copies, and events surrounding The Flightless Goose.

www.RunGoose.com

Lit and Art in Baltimore's Inner Harbor

June is not just about Bloomsday anymore.

On Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m., the Watermark Gallery in Baltimore's Inner Harbor will continue its Lit and Art series. Five local authors will present their fiction and poetry and an original collection of art by local artist Manzar Rassouli-Taylorr will be on display.

Returning writers include Lauren Beth Eisenberg, Eric D. Goodman, Nitin Jagdish, and Cliff Lynn. Making his Lit and Art debut will be Irwin Greenstein.

A collection of surreal artwork by Manzar Rassouli-Taylorr will be on display.

Started in October 2007, the Lit and Art series provides a unique opportunity to sample a variety of artistic sensibilities. Like previous events in this series, it is free and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Bring your own work for a chance to share it aloud with the crowd after the scheduled readers.

The Watermark Gallery is located in the Bank of America Center Skywalk Level, right across from the Inner Harbor, at 100 S. Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The phone number is (410) 547-0452.

Learn more about the Watermark at their online gallery.

www.manzar.net

Gluckman's Characters Find Themselves in Deadly Exchange

Think you’ve had an identity crisis at one time or another? Ever feel like your boss or coworkers are a little too intrusive? Think again.

The two main characters in Geoffrey Gluckman’s novel, Deadly Exchange, go against all odds to find one another—but first they have to tackle the struggle of finding themselves.

It’s hard to fit Deadly Exchange into one neat category, other than to describe it as a fast-paced thriller. Part conspiracy theory mystery, part spy action-adventure, garnished with philosophy, self-help, espionage, and romance, Gluckman weaves his characters, themes, plots and subplots together as they travel from coast to coast.

Frank Revere, a former federal agent who has lost his wife and never been himself since, doesn’t know who Jennifer Chance is when he meets her. But then, neither does Jennifer Chance.

As one of the world’s most successful motivational speakers, she’s at the top of her game—and yet unsatisfied. Together, they rediscover not only themselves and one another—they discover what true motivation really is.

To write the thriller, Gluckman drew on his experience as a federal agent and recruitment by the CIA, as well as his experience as an exercise physiologist and international lecturer.

Learn more about Geoffrey Gluckman’s novel, Deadly Exchange, by visiting his website. You can even read the first chapter while you’re there.

http://geoffreygluckman.com/

The Flightless Goose Goes to 30 Rock

The Flightless Goose is flying high … figuratively speaking.

Watch The Today Show on NBC early next week and keep an eye out for the goose!

To promote our childrens’ book, The Flightless Goose, my wife Nataliya (the illustrator) and I (the author) are attempting to get onto The Today Show—America’s number one morning show. We'll go to Rockefeller Plaza during the taping of the show with a handmade poster board announcing the publication of The Flightless Goose and launching the brand-new website.

We'll be in New York City all next week and hope to score a few seconds of air time for The Flightless Goose on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

So stay tuned to the tube and watch for geese! And stay tuned to the online pond at the link below.

www.FlightlessGoose.blogspot.com.

McDermott on Stumbling Along

When it comes to writing fiction, Alice McDermott believes the best way to write a novel is in the dark—figuratively speaking, that is.


“There’s a danger in loosing enthusiasm if you know the plot before you start writing. It’s best, for literary fiction, to begin without knowing exactly where it’s going.”


That’s in direct conflict with what many other successful authors suggest—that you should begin with the ending in mind, plot ahead to know where you’re going.


But it’s not like Alice—New York Times Bestseller, National Book Award winner, Pulitzer nominee—doesn’t know what she’s talking about.


“Novels open up—one thing leads to another, unexpected and unplanned. The puzzle of putting it all together.”


One such puzzle, for Alice, was That Night.


“Writing That Night was a slow process, lots of rewriting, following the language, letting characters show what to write next. It’s a process, stumbling along. A lot of hard work.”


But when done right, it’s a lot of hard work that pays off.


“Don’t be afraid of what’s next. The novel will fill in from behind. It won’t peter out if you’re interested in the story.”

F. Scott Fitzgerald Wants Your Stories

Do you have a great short story that you're dying to share with the world? Now is the time. The F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference, Inc. is sponsoring its 13th annual short story competition. The F. Scott Fitzgerald Short Story Contest is open to residents of Maryland, Washington D. C. and Virginia.

Send in your polished and unpublished stories of no more than 3,000 words. First prize includes $1,000, an invitation to speak at the 13th Annual F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference, and publication in The Potomac Review. Three runner-ups will receive $200 each. There is a $25 entry fee, and the deadline to enter is July 18, 2008.

In addition to the larger contest, the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference, Inc. also sponsors a student short story contest. There is no entry fee, and the competition is open to all high school students who reside or attend school in Montgomery County.

The F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference, Inc. promotes appreciation for the literary arts and appreciation for the literature of F. Scott Fitzgerald, one of America's most celebrated writers.

The literary conference is held every year in Rockville, Maryland, the resting place of F. Scott Fitzgerald. The conference includes workshops and panels for writers of all skill levels. The organization's supporters include the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, the Rockville Cultural Arts Commission and the F. Scott Fitzgerald Society.

Visit the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference website at www.montgomerycollege.edu/PotomacReview/fscott/index.htm for complete contest guidelines and more information, or call (301) 309-9461.

And be sure to make plans to attend the next F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference on October 25, 2008. You can learn more by visiting the conference website above.

Elmore Leonard Announced as Next F. Scott Fitzgerald Honoree

Popular novelist Elmore Leonard has been announced as the most recent honoree for the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Award.

Elmore “Dutch” Leonard is the author of 42 novels and countless short stories, many of them household names: 3:10 to Yuma, Get Shorty, Rum Punch (upon which Quentin Tarantino's film Jackie Brown was based), The Big Bounce, The Hot Kid, and 52 Pickup. Currently he is at work on his 43rd novel, Road Dogs, due out in 2009.

In being selected as an F. Scott Fitzgerald Honoree, Dutch Leonard joins an impressive group of talented authors. Previous award winners to accept the award at the annual F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference in Rockville Maryland, include Norman Mailer, John Updike, E.L. Doctorow, Joyce Carol Oates, Ernest J. Gaines, Edward Albee , William Styron, John Barth, Grace Paley, Pat Conroy, William J. Kennedy, and Jane Smiley.

Learn more about Dutch Leonard and his acceptance of the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Award by reading the recent profile in The Washington Post.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/26/AR2008052602219.html


Visit Dutch Leonard at his website.
http://www.elmoreleonard.com/


And be sure to make plans to see Dutch Leonard in person at the next F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference on October 25, 2008. Stay tuned to the conference website for details as they come.

www.montgomerycollege.edu/potomacreview/fscott/

Celebrating 90 Years

You think aging heroes like Indiana Jones and Superman are growing old gracefully as they celebrate their lives in their 60s? You should see my grandfather.

This weekend is the big party in the Bluegrass State. Family and friends from around the country and many friends and neighbors from the community are coming out to celebrate his 90th birthday party.

To be healthy and active on your 90th birthday ... now that's something worth writing about.

What do you expect to be doing in celebration of your own 90th birthday?

Get Freshly Squeezed Tonight!

Tonight’s the night. Come to the historic Patterson Theater for the Release Party of Freshly Squeezed: The Write Here Write Now Anthology.

The event, sponsored by the Creative Alliance and the CityLit Project, is free and open to the public. It takes place tonight at 7:30. Refreshments will be served –not just the anthology!

The anthology includes more than 250 pages of select works from the Write Here Write Now Workshop Series. The work ranges from fiction and non-fiction to poetry and plays.

Cant’ make it to the party? Freshly Squeezed is available at Barnes & Nobel, in the stores and online.

Contributors to the anthology include Rick Connor, Fernando Quijano III, Nicole Walton, Tamara Keurejian, Barbara Friedland, Holly Myers, Mare Cromwell, Eric D. Goodman, Nancy O. Greene, and Leo Horrigan.

My contribution to the anthology, “One Last Hit,” is a story from TRACKS, my novel in stories.

Learn more about tonight’s release party at http://www.creativealliance.org/events/eventItem1372.html


Or buy your copy online at Barnes & Noble.
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Freshly-Squeezed/Christine-Stewart/e/9781934074329/?itm=4

Indiana Jones and the Historic Senator

It’s been said, as much as authors like myself hate to admit it, that the movie is the new novel. That is, people used to sit by the fireside with a good book; now the average person is more likely to catch a movie. With that in mind, I’d like to shelve the book this week and join the conversation about the latest adventure of Indiana Jones.

Last night I was invited to an advanced screening of Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull at The Senator Theater, one of our nation’s few remaining historic theaters. The theater seats 950 and barely a seat remained open. There must have been close to a thousand people there — from theater owners and critics to politicians and the ticket-winners. And you know what? Regardless of what they may say today, last night they were laughing, jumping, cheering – enjoying themselves.

Isn’t that what a summertime popcorn movie is supposed to do?

Indy 4 was a romping rollercoaster ride. Was the film as good as the original trilogy? Not quite — but that’s the nostalgia of 27 years creeping in. Sure the new movie gets a little far out, but so did the other movies. A 700-year-old knight guarding the Holy Grail? Beating hearts bursting into flames, anyone? That’s part of the comic-book fun. Indy movies don’t take themselves seriously.

Sure, the new movie includes some monkey business that would have been better left out. And, given the 17 years that have passed since Last Crusade, it’s more a tribute to the 50s than the 30s. And yes, it starts a little better than it finishes.

That said, Indy delivers. If you enjoyed the original three films, you’ll enjoy this one. It’s as fun as the originals.

So what are you waiting for? Hit the theater, grab your popcorn, get a good seat. And remember that the best place to see an old-style movie like this one is at a historic theater – like The Senator.

Visit Indy at his official website, where you can watch the trailers and TV spots.

http://www.indianajones.com/

Get the consensus from reviewers at Rotten Tomatoes.

www.rottentomatoes.com

Read Roger Ebert’s Indy confession at his blog.

blogs.suntimes.com/ebert/2008/05/i_admit_it_i_loved_ind.html

Finally, visit The Senator Theater online.

http://www.senator.com/

Big News: Goose Contract Signed!

There's big news at the publishing pond! We have a publisher for our illustrated childrens’ book, The Flightless Goose! We have signed a publishing contract.

The book will be published by Writers’ Lair Books and is due out this summer.

The picture book, which tells the story of a goose who must cope with a disability and learn to focus on other strengths, has been a long time swimming. Based on the true story of a Canadian goose living on a pond in a neighborhood we once lived in, I wrote the story nearly ten years ago. Over the next few years, my wife, Nataliya, illustrated the book with her beautiful watercolors, bringing the characters to life.

Then came the grueling part—finding a publisher. Over the years, we submitted The Flightless Goose to dozens of publishers and agents. Some responses were form rejection letters, others were complimentary, but ultimately most of them passed on the project.

When the CEO of Writers’ Lair Books took a look at the book, she knew she wanted to publish it. She issued a contract, which we eagerly signed.

So, after years of wading in the water, The Flightless Goose is about to take flight. Look for it online and in bookstores summer 2008!

And be sure to stay tuned for news about the publication date, special pre-publication offers, the release party, and events in the area and around the country! You can read about it here at www.Writeful.blogspot.com -- just subscribe to our RSS feed. Or go directlyto the online pond.

You can visit the online pond at www.flightlessgoose.blogspot.com.

Chatting with Author Tom Monteleone

Last Saturday, the 20th Annual Maryland Writers Conference went well. More than a hundred writers at all levels—from beginners to seasoned experts—joined together to share and learn.

My own session went well. I participated in a panel discussion on marketing your writing. Joining me were authors Austin Camacho, Diane Marquette, and Peter Abresch. We provided tips on our own unique ways of marketing our writing to new audiences—through blogs, articles, book signings, book readings, conferences, and more.

The highlight of the conference was the keynote address by author Thomas F. Montelone. Tom is the author of thirty-six books and has published more than 100 stories. He’s also the author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Writing a Novel.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Tom over coffee during the conference for about half an hour. But I didn’t conduct an interview since I knew that there were already two great ones out there by fellow conference-goers.

Read an interview with Tom conducted by Nancy O. Greene at The Writer’s Block here.

http://writersgroupblog.wordpress.com/2008/04/29/interview-with-thomas-f-monteleone-multiple-bram-stoker-award-winner/

And listen to an interview with Tom conducted by Austin Camacho here.

http://www.marylandwriters.org/audio/mwa-monteleone.mp3

Small Places Published in The Potomac

My fiction has been published in the May issue of The Potomac, a journal of poetry and politics—and fiction!

“Small Places” is a short excerpt from Womb. Although this short piece is written in the third person, the novel itself is written in the first person – from the unique point-of-view of a child still in his mother’s womb.

“Small Places” is the only excerpt from Womb that has been submitted for publication. Revisions on the novel are still in progress with plans to begin submitting to agents late this year.

Small as it is, enjoy “Small Places” in the current issue of The Potomac now! Just scroll down to the “Quicktions” section on the lower left-hand side.

http://webdelsol.com/The_Potomac/

Deepak Chopra Wellness Retreats Mark 100th Anniversary of The Spencer

The Spencer, a literary-themed hotel and spa nestled in the heart of the Chautauqua Institution, is in its 100th year of continuous operation.

To celebrate, The Spencer offers an exciting program of health and wellness retreats by certified Deepak Chopra Center instructors.

Primordial sound meditation, Yoga, and Healthy Life Styles are a few of the services offered to guests to help them relax, refresh and renew.

For the literary buff looking to release the words from within, professional, award-winning instructors are offering three to five day workshops tailored to everyone’s lifestyle.

The Spencer’s spa offers a variety of invigorating, anti-aging treatments. The Signature Spencer Grape Country massage with essential oils of grape seed and lavender, as well as the Swedish Massage, Hot Stone Massage, and body wraps are designed to reduce stress and to complete your wellness experience. Guests will learn to grow younger with guided healthy food instruction. The Spencer’s spa services now include a sauna, relaxation room, and outdoor massages.

The 24 guest rooms celebrate the life and work of history’s most revered authors—from John Keats to Beatrice Potter; from Charles Dickens to Agatha Christie. Each room in this unique hotel pays homage to a renowned author. This is another reason people are making The Spencer Hotel not only a place to stay but also a destination in itself.

The Spencer Hotel and Spa is located in the heart of the illustrious Chautauqua Institution, the historic community renowned as a center for the performing and literary arts, and the discussion of the most important social and political issues of our time.

Whether guest are seeking a literary getaway, health and wellness retreat featuring certified Deepak Chopra Center instructors, or spa pampering, all are possible at The Spencer Hotel & Spa.

To learn more about The Spencer—the nation’s only literary-themed boutique hotel—visit www.thespencer.com. While you’re there make your reservations online or call The Spencer Hotel at 1-800-398-1306. Be sure to ask about The Spencer’s Deepak Chopra wellness retreats, spa packages, and writing workshops and literary getaways.

Where in the World is Eric D. Goodman?

Millions of Americans are watching "Where in the world is Matt Lauer" this week. But I'm enjoying my own adventure this week in the land of enchantment.


I'm in Albuquerque, New Mexico for a communications conference. The conference is good, but the location is really worth writing about.


I flew in Friday and, immediately after checking in, I enjoyed the nightlife on Rout 66 along with hundreds of American Indians in town for the Gathering of Nations -- the world's largest pow-wow.


I took a day trip to Taos where I enjoyed the historic pueblo there -- the world's first living community still existing today. Near Taos, I hiked to two natural hot springs where I soaked in the hot mineral water in the valley and along the Rio Grande. One of the springs was believed by the Spaniards to bew the fountain of youth due to its medicinal properties.


Kasha-Katuwe's tent rock formations were a wonder: tepee-shaped mountains above and below the trail. And the Coronado monument offered a glimpse of the remains of an ancient civilization. The National Petroglyph National Monument gave a sampling of rock paintings dating back to 1,000 BC.


I rode the world's longest areal tram up to the top of the Sandia mountains, enjoyed some good, authentic food in Bernalillo at a restaurant recommended by a master bead worker I met at an American Indian art gallery. Despite my short time in a Casino, the experiences have left me feeling like a winner.


The gem of Albuquerque is Old Town. I've been to the plaza twice and plan to return again. During my first trip to Old Town, I attended a Christening at San Felipe Neri Church and ate authentic New Mexican food in the Courtyard.


Still a few days to go and so much more to see. So, where in the world will Eric D. Goodman go next? (Probably out for margaritas in the sun.)

Twentieth Annual Maryland Writers Conference

I'll be speaking at the 20th annual Maryland Writers' Conference! I'll be part of a panel discussion on marketing your writing.


There’s still time to register for the 20th annual Maryland Writers’ Conference—but just barely. The big event takes place on Saturday, May 3, 2008 from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Maritime Institute in Linthicum.


Keynote speaker Thomas F. Monteleone is but one of many professional, successful writers planning to spend the day helping you reach your own writing goals. Monteleone is author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel.


Other speakers include Patricia Fry, Dana Kollman, Richard White, Cynthia Polansky, Gregg Wilhelm, and C.M. Mayo.


Panelists include Austin Camacho, Eric D. Goodman, Tamara Keurejian, Jill Earl, and Bill Glose.


Join local experts and established writers at the 20th annual Maryland Writers' Association's conference. You’ll have the opportunity to hone your craft in sessions led by established authors, instructors, and experts. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s plenty for you at the conference. Come explore the many worlds of writing.


To register, or for more information, visit the conference website.


Or, if you don’t find time to register but still want to attend, just show up! The Maryland Writers’ Association will make room for you.


www.marylandwriters.org/conferences.html

Two Lit-Filled Days in Baltimore

This past weekend offered a lot for lovers of literature to latch on to.

Saturday marked the fifth annual CityLit Festival, one of the region's largest celebrations of the literary arts. The event featured far too many sessions and speakers to mention here, but included Afaa Michael Weaver, Dr. Ben Carson, Laura Lippman, and authors featured in the upcoming Freshly Squeezed anthology.

The Freshly Squeezed anthology reading was well attended - more audience members than in some of the sessions featuring best-selling authors. (Talk about the local literary community supporting its own!) Authors reading their work from the new anthology from Loyola's Apprentice House included Rick Connor, Fernando Quijano III, Nicole Walton, Tamara Keurejian, Barbara Friedland, Holly Myers, Mare Cromwell, Eric D. Goodman, Nancy O. Greene, and Leo Horrigan.

And as though that wasn't enough to fill the day, the monthly 510 reading featured readings by popular authors Michael Kimball, Maude Casey, and Michael Downs.

When I drove to Sunday's Lit & Art at the Watermark event, I was surprised to see the extremely crowded streets, "event parking" signs all around, and lack of usual parking spaces. "Lit & Art has gone far," I thought. The modest crowd inside didn't correspond with the cars all around.

We were competing with the Baltmore Oriels AND the New York Yankees. And the SPCA March for Animals. And several concerts. And probably a thousand other non-literary events.

Still, the Lit & Art event was a good one, filled with creative readings, fine art, and good food, wine, and company. Authors reading from their work included Caryn Coyle, Lauren Beth Eisenberg, Eric D. Goodman, Nitin Jagdish, Eric Kestler, Deanna Nikaido, and Nancy O. Greene.

And the winner was ... everyone who came out and had a great time.

Stay tuned for more information on future events!

And take a sneak peek at the Freshly Squeezed anthology on the Apprentice House website.

www.apprenticehouse.com/

Get Lit This Weekend

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Get lit! (Literature, that is.)

This weekend’s literary offerings are fully stocked.

On Saturday, check out the fifth annual CityLit Festival. It takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Enoch Pratt Library in downtown Baltimore and features something for everyone. Featured guests include Afaa Michael Weaver, Dr. Ben Carson, Laura Lippman, and authors featured in the upcoming Freshly Squeezed anthology.

The Freshly Squeezed anthology reading takes place at 3:30 at the CityLit Festival. Featured authors reading their work will include Rick Connor, Fernando Quijano III, Nicole Walton, Tamara Keurejian, Barbara Friedland, Holly Myers, Mare Cromwell, Eric D. Goodman, Nancy O. Greene, and Leo Horrigan. The reading – like the festival – is free and open to the public.

And if that doesn’t fill your day, there’s another reading well worth attending after the festival ends. Head over to the Minas gallery in Hampden for the next 510 reading. The event begins at 5 p.m. and features fiction readings by authors Michael Kimball, Maude Casey, and Michael Downs.

Finally, consider Sunday’s Lit & Art at the Watermark event your dessert after a well-rounded meal. Authors reading from their work include Caryn Coyle, Lauren Beth Eisenberg, Eric D. Goodman, Nitin Jagdish, Eric Kestler, Cliff Lynn, Deanna Nikaido, and Nancy O. Greene.

Started in October 2007, the Lit and Art series provides a unique opportunity to sample a variety of artistic sensibilities. Complimentary wine and refreshments will be served.

The Watermark Gallery is located in the Bank of America Center, Skywalk Level, right across from the Inner Harbor, at 100 S. Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The phone number is (410) 547-0452.

All of these events are free and open to the public.


To learn more about the reading, visit the CityLit Project.

www.CityLitProject.org


Take a sneak peek at the Freshly Squeezed anthology at Apprentice House.

http://www.apprenticehouse.com/


Find out about 510 here at their blog.

http://www.510readings.blogspot.com


Learn more about the Watermark at the online gallery.

www.manzar.net


There’s no excuse not to enjoy the weekend!

My Fiction Published in Freshly Squeezed

My fiction is being published in Freshly Squeezed, an anthology being published by Loyola College’s Apprentice House.

“One Last Hit” is a story from TRACKS, my novel in stories. It follows the footsteps of a hit man as he seeks out a career in crime, then just as eagerly seeks to get out.

The anthology includes more than 250 pages of select works from the Write Here Write Now Workshop Series run by the Creative Alliance and CityLit Project. The work ranges from fiction and non-fiction to poetry and plays.

Freshly Squeezed will be available in late May at Barnes & Nobel, Target, and directly from the publisher, Apprentice House. The anthology’s release party takes place at the Patterson Theater on May 28.

Contributors to the anthology will present a special pre-publication preview at this weekend’s CityLit Fest. The “Freshly Squeezed” reading takes place at 3:30 p.m. at the Enoch Pratt Library in downtown Baltimore. Featured authors reading their work from the anthology include Rick Connor, Fernando Quijano III, Nicole Walton, Tamara Keurejian, Barbara Friedland, Holly Myers, Mare Cromwell, Eric D. Goodman, Nancy O. Greene, and Leo Horrigan.

To learn more about the reading, visit the CityLit Project.


http://www.citylitproject.org/

Take a sneak peek at the cover at Apprentice House.


http://www.apprenticehouse.com/

Lit and Art Returns to Baltimore's Inner Harbor

Tax season may be upon us, but April does not have to be the cruelest month.

On Sunday, April 20 at 2 p.m., the Watermark Gallery in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor will continue its popular Lit and Art series. Eight local authors will present their fiction and poetry. An original collection of art by local artist Manzar will be on display.

Returning writers include Caryn Coyle, Lauren Beth Eisenberg, Eric D. Goodman, Nitin Jagdish, Eric Kestler, Cliff Lynn, and Deanna Nikaido. Making her Lit and Art debut will be Nancy O. Greene.

I'll be reading "One Last Hit," a story from TRACKS being published in the upcoming anthology Freshly Squeezed under Loyola College's Apprentice House imprint.

A collection of surreal artwork by Manzar will be on display.

Started in October 2007, the Lit and Art series provides a unique opportunity to sample a variety of artistic sensibilities.

Like previous events in this series, it is free and open to the public. Complimentary wine and refreshments will be served.

The Watermark Gallery is located in the Bank of America Center, Skywalk Level, right across from the Inner Harbor, at 100 S. Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The phone number is (410) 547-0452.

Learn more about the Watermark at their online gallery.

www.manzar.net

Stay tuned to Writeful for more on this and other literary news and events.

www.Writeful.blogspot.com

CityLit Project's Fifth Annual Celebration of Literature

Poet Afaa Michael Weaver joins authors Lippman, Fesperman, Suri, Carson, and others at the CityLit Festival V.

The fifth edition of the festival takes place on Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Enoch Pratt Free Library. The event is free and open to the public.

Deputy Mayor Salima Siler Marriott, Pratt Library Executive Director Dr. Carla Hayden, and CityLit Project Executive Director Gregg Wilhelm join the poet at 10:30 to declare April 19 “Afaa Michael Weaver Day.” Weaver reads from The Plum Flower Dance at 2:00.

The Maryland Writers’ Association will be present all day at the Festival—find out more about the MWA and learn how you can become a part of the organization by stopping by the booth.

Meanwhile, three of Baltimore’s most prominent literati share their brand new books at 1:00 in Pratt Library’s Wheeler Auditorium. Tom Hall, Culture Editor for WYPR’s “Maryland Morning,” talks with Dan Fesperman, The Amateur Spy; Laura Lippman, Another Thing to Fall; and Manil Suri, The Age of Shiva.

Dr. Ben Carson, world-renowned pediatric neurosurgeon, shares his insight and advice from Take the Risk: Learning to Identify, Choose, and Live with Acceptable Risk. Dr. Carson presents at 3:00.

The Maryland Humanities Council’s Maryland Center for the Book honors its “Letters About Literature” contest winners from around the state at 11:00 with special guest children’s chapter book author Margaret Meacham. S. James Guitard and Victoria Christopher Murray read from and discuss their latest novels, and sports writer John Eisenberg revisits the Barbaro story in his new book.

Contributors to a new anthology based on writing from the popular “Write Here, Write Now” workshops all present special pre-publication previews of their new books. Featured authors reading their work from the anthology include Rick Connor, Fernando Quijano III, Nicole Walton, Tamara Keurejian, Barbara Friedland, Holly Myers,