by Chrysa Smith Everyone knows someone from Brooklyn. No matter where you go, you’re never many steps removed.There’s just something about the interactive, walkable, ethnic segments that are endearing. I should know. I was born there. So it’s not a surprise that I would eventually set a book there. The Upside-Down Gardener follows a young…
DetailsI admit it. I’m a reformed tree fluffer. Now you might ask yourself what exactly is that. Am I someone who can’t pass a garden without propping up the leaves on a withering tree? Watering the drooping elms? Actually, it’s none of these. Turns out a tree fluffer is a legitimate job. Around September you’ll…
DetailsWords matter. If you’ve never thought about it before, think about this: I have a dream. Four score and seven years ago. Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. These famous lines from speeches will live on forever. Just do it, the real…
DetailsI’m always thinking. For better or worse, I’m often in my head. And I come up with all sorts of explanations and thoughts on what makes for good writing–for me and others. So I once compiled a list that I believe, makes for better writing. I thought I’d share it here. So here goes. Use…
DetailsYou never know when inspiration is going to grab you and smack you right in the face. I was standing in a gift shop looking at silk flowers. I turned and walked toward the children’s section and it hit me. It was another ‘Once upon a something book.’ I don’t know just how many…
DetailsYou never know where writing is going to take you. This is what I tell students during my elementary school author visits. It might sound like some vague, empty-worded statement. But I can honestly say that it’s been tried and true for me as I’ve spent the better part of the past three decades just…
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