Writing and Life

January 2012 Book in a Week class

2012-01-08T16:09:00.006-06:00

The unanimous response to my class last time was that people prefer having 2 weeks to write and therefore a 6 week class so that's what I'm offering again this January 2012. Here are the details.

NEXT BOOK IN A WEEK ONLINE CLASS

Note: You can sign up to be notified when I am offering this or any other class by using this link: Kihlstrom online classes

Book in a Week Online Writing Class Cost: $85 ($45 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand the economy is bad and if you have a hardship situation, please let me know. I do offer discounts in hardship cases.)
Dates: January 22, 2012 to March 2, 2012Deadline to sign up: by January 20, 2012 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.

Class size is limited.

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before.

Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

Class Description:This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Weeks 4 and 5: Intensive Writing Weeks (February 11, 2012 through February 26, 2012)This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 6: Here's your chance to look at the experience of weeks 4 and 5 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does BIAW work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Note: Again, if cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out.

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

Flo Fitzpatrick wrote: "I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!!"

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T11:41:00.002-06:00

Whatever holiday you celebrate at this time of year, I hope it is a happy time for you. I know that's not the case for everyone. If this time of year is a challenge for you, I hope you can find comfort in books you love. If this is a wonderful time of year for you, I hope good books add to your joy in the season.

It has been an amazing year. I teach my online writing classes and hope that I make a difference--making writing more fun and easier. I do the same with my coaching. But writing is my first love and it is a joy to me that my books are beginning to be available in electronic book format. If you have or received an e-book reader for Christmas or Hannukah, you may want to check out my books. You can see the latest here or on my website. Look for some original stories in the coming year--perhaps even a short story or novella about how the eldest brother of the Langford family met his wife, Athenia.

I also put up this year a pamphlet of Writing Tips for Kids and probably should have titled it Writing Tips for Kids and Adults since some of the material has been used in workshops for adults as well as with kids. Writing Tips for Kids For now it's only available for the kindle but that may change in future months.

I hope that 2011 was a good year for you and that 2012 will be even better. I wish for each of you much joy, good health, success and that you are always surrounded by loving family and friends. And of course that you always have wonderful books to read!

Warmest wishes now and always,
April Kihlstrom

Another Experiment

2011-10-18T09:59:00.004-05:00

I'm trying yet another experiment. I've privately tutored and taught kids writing in the past and decided to compile a SHORT and SIMPLE guide FOR kids about writing and am offering it on Amazon for Kindle.

It's not about grammar or the things usually taught in English classes but rather what makes a particular essay or report or story or speech effective.

It's about how to THINK about what someone is planning to write.

My hope is that it will make writing easier and less scary for kids.

Here's the cover and a link to order it on Amazon:

WRITING TIPS FOR KIDS on Amazon for Kindle

An Experiment

2011-10-13T16:04:00.002-05:00

I'm going to try an experiment. People are asking about the next Book in a Week class and I'm looking at the calendar and trying to figure out how to make it work given Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays. So....

I'm going to try an experiment. This BIAW is going to run 6 weeks with 2 weeks to write. That way if people know they are going to be busy over Thanksgiving they will still have time to write. So....here goes:

NEXT BOOK IN A WEEK ONLINE CLASS

Note: You can sign up to be notified when I am offering this or any other class by using this link: Kihlstrom online classes

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $85 ($45 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand the economy is bad and if you have a hardship situation, please let me know. I do offer discounts in hardship cases.)
Dates: October 30, 2011 to December 9, 2011
Deadline to sign up: by October 28, 2011 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.
Class size is limited.

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Weeks 4 and 5: Intensive Writing Weeks (November 19, 2011 through December 4, 2011)This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 6:Here's your chance to look at the experience of weeks 4 and 5 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does BIAW work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

Flo Fitzpatrick wrote: "I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!!"

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out.

Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

The Wily Wastrel

2011-09-12T15:03:00.004-05:00

The Wily Wastrel was one of my favorite books to write. Romantic Times nominated it for best Regency of 1999. I love James and Juliet and hope readers will as well. The Wily Wastrel is now available as an e-book at Regency Reads.

Appearances are deceiving as this apparently frippery fellow tries to hide his natural genius for invention from his disapproving older brother, Lord Darton. He has no interest in the silly young ladies who are forever being paraded before him as possible wives. But what happens when he meets a young lady with a mind as fine as his own?

Top Regency pick for October 1999 by Romantic Times Magazine and nominated by Romantic Times Magazine for best Regency of 1999.

kindle version

9/11

2011-09-11T09:46:00.003-05:00

How well I remember that day. My daughter and I were headed to the Jersey shore for a couple of days together before she left for college. It was eerily empty on the highway except for emergency vehicles headed north--to NYC. My husband had family in the city and it took too long to find out they were all okay.

Like everyone else, I watched in horror as the towers fell. Like everyone else, I was touched by the courage of those on flight 93.

As all the planes were grounded, my daughter and I made contingency plans for how we would get her out to California in time for the start of classes.

We talked about our lives, our hopes and dreams. Though I didn't tell her yet, I realized I could no longer put off making changes. Not when life could end with such breathtaking suddenness and horror.

And I watched in the months and years after 9/11 as our nation changed. Yes, with wars and new security measures but also in the way we dealt with each other. It was as if, afraid, we tried to cling to what would make us feel safe. In some ways it felt as if we forgot how to listen to one another with kindness and respect, understanding that no one has a lock on wisdom, that we can learn from those whose view of the world is different from our own.

I hope that this anniversary reunites us, reminds us that despite all our differences, we are one nation and it is in those differences that lies our strength.

I doubt I will ever forget the horror of seeing the towers fall, the smoke rising from the Pentagon, the courage it took for those passengers on flight 93 to fight back and stop the terrorists.

I hope what I will be able to remember following this anniversary is how our nation came together again, finally, 10 years later.

September Book in a Week online class

2011-09-01T12:58:00.002-05:00

My goal with this class: To bring more joy into your life and into your writing process. I believe that when we do anything with joy, we do it better and faster and more creatively. This is why so many who have taken this class have gone on to sell their work and/or win awards. At least one author has had her book written with this process optioned for a movie. This is an intensive class but I hope it will also be one that helps you smile as you brainstorm and then write your book.

You can sign up to be notified when I am offering this or any other class by using this link: April Kihlstrom online classes

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $85 ($45 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand the economy is bad and if you have a hardship situation, please let me know. I do offer discounts in hardship cases.)
Dates: September 12, 2011 to October 14, 2011
Deadline to sign up: by September 9, 2011 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.
Class size is limited.

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:
This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (October 1, 2011 through October 9, 2011)
This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 5:
Here's your chance to look at the experience of week 4 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does it work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

Flo Fitzpatrick wrote: "I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!!"

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out. Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

The Soldier's Bride

2011-08-10T12:58:00.003-05:00

Apparently Signet (Penguin Putnam) has had The Soldier's Bride available for a while as an ebook.

Elizabeth Barlow marries Lord Thomas Kepley just before he is to return to the war. His ship sinks and he is reported drowned. A year and a half later, he reappears and together Lisbeth and Thomas must discover how to salvage their marriage and he must deal with a child he does not believe is his.

Here are some links:

kindle version

KOBO version

Nook version

Sony ebook reader

And it's available through itunes for the ipad as well.

It's really great to know that my books are beginning to be available again!

The Reckless Barrister

2011-08-09T11:42:00.001-05:00

Finally The Reckless Barrister is available again--this time in ebook form. I loved writing this book and hope you will love reading it, too, if you missed it the first time around (Signet Regency 1999). You can find it at: The Reckless Barrister

July Book in a Week online writing class

2011-07-06T12:29:00.001-05:00

My goal with this class: To bring more joy into your life and into your writing process. I believe that when we do anything with joy, we do it better and faster and more creatively. This is why so many who have taken this class have gone on to sell their work and/or win awards. At least one author has had her book written with this process optioned for a movie. This is an intensive class but I hope it will also be one that helps you smile as you brainstorm and then write your book.

You can sign up to be notified when I am offering this or any other class by using this link: April Kihlstrom online classes

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $85 ($45 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand the economy is bad and if you have a hardship situation, please let me know. I do offer discounts in hardship cases.)
Dates: July 17, 2011 to August 19, 2011
Deadline to sign up: by July 15, 2011 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.
Class size is limited.

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:
This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (August 6, 2011 through August 14, 2011)
This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 5:
Here's your chance to look at the experience of week 4 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does it work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

Flo Fitzpatrick wrote: "I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!!"

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out. Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

May 2011 Book in a Week class

2011-05-05T11:10:00.003-05:00

My goal with this class: To bring more joy into your life and into your writing process. I believe that when we do anything with joy, we do it better and faster and more creatively. This is why so many who have taken this class have gone on to sell their work and/or win awards. At least one author has had her book written with this process optioned for a movie. This is an intensive class but I hope it will also be one that helps you smile as you brainstorm and then write your book.

You can sign up to be notified when I am offering this or any other class by using this link: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/aprilkihlstromwritingclasses2/join

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $80 ($40 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand the economy is bad and if you have a hardship situation, please let me know. I do offer discounts in hardship cases.)
Dates: May 15, 2011 to June 17, 2011
Deadline to sign up: by May 13, 2011 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.
Class size is limited!

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:
This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (June 4, 2011 through June 12, 2011)
This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 5:
Here's your chance to look at the experience of week 4 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does it work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

Flo Fitzpatrick wrote: "I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!!"

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out. Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com . Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

March 2011 Book In A Week online class

2011-03-02T15:42:00.002-06:00

I've scheduled my next BIAW class to start March 14, 2011. That way the class will end BEFORE Passover and Easter. Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think might be interested in the class.

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $80 ($40 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand financial hardship and if you have such a situation, please let me know! On a case by case basis, I am sometimes able to offer reduced tuition.)
Dates: March 14, 2011 to April 15, 2011
Deadline to sign up: by March 11, 2011 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.
Class size is limited!

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:
This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (March 26, 2011 through April 3, 2011)
This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 5:
Here's your chance to look at the experience of week 4 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does it work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

Flo Fitzpatrick wrote: "I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!!"

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before.

Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis I am sometimes able to offer a discount.

Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

January 2011 Book in a Week online class

2011-01-04T15:13:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year, everyone! May 2011 bring you much laughter, wonderful surprises and your heart's desires. Now that January is here I know some people are ready to get back to writing.

I've scheduled my next BIAW class to start January 17, 2011. As always, I'll be open as we go along, to requests for more information on any aspect of the class lessons. Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think might be interested in the class.

Note: This is the intensive version of the class.

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $80 ($40 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand financial hardship and if you have such a situation, please let me know! On a case by case basis, I am sometimes able to offer reduced tuition.)
Dates: January 17, 2011 to February 18, 2011
Deadline to sign up: by January 14, 2011 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)

Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.

Class size is limited!

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:
This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (February 5, 2011 through February 13, 2011)

This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 5:

Here's your chance to look at the experience of week 4 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does it work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:
Flo Fitzpatrick wrote: "I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!!"

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out. Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

Sue Grimshaw, reinventing oneself, etc.

2010-10-03T14:17:00.003-05:00

I know it's been a while since I posted. I've been mulling over how to reinvent both my writing self and make my blog more relevant or if it's even necessary these days. After all, I don't want to waste anyone's time. So...stay tuned. If/when I figure it out, I'll post whether I'm essentially closing up shop here or will be posting on a regular schedule.

I did want to mention Sue Grimshaw however. Head buyer for Romance at Borders. Our industry is changing. Some people are running scared, some are embracing new possibilities. Sue Grimshaw spoke yesterday here in Austin for our ARWA group and wowed us all. This is a woman with vision who is taking advantage of new possibilities. She is a strong advocate for romance novels and authors. She is truly one of the good guys in our industry as well as being a very likable person.

If you are an author and haven't yet checked out the Borders website--do so! Check out the opportunities to promote your book. I think you'll be as impressed as I was.

You can also follow Sue on Twitter. She mentioned that she often tweets coupons so if you're a reader you REALLY want to follow Sue!

About Book in a Week....

2010-09-05T14:55:00.002-05:00

Thanks to Flo Fitzpatrick who posted on Facebook:

"I hope you get a ton of students, April! ONE OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS I EVER TOOK!!!! ( It enabled me to write Hot Stuff in a week - and that book received four and half stars - Gold on RT Reviews and is under option for film.) TAKE THIS CLASS, PEOPLE!!!! "

WTG Flo--fingers crossed for you on that movie deal!

next Book in a Week class

2010-09-01T10:06:00.001-05:00

Thank you to everyone who filled out the survey. Based on the response, I've scheduled my next BIAW class to start September 13, 2010 and I will be revising a number of the lessons. In particular, I will be revamping (and perhaps adding more) lessons on book structure and revisions. As always, I'll be open as we go along, to requests for more information on any aspect of the class lessons. Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think might be interested in the class.

Note: This is the intensive version of the class.

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $80 ($40 if you have taken it before) (Note: I understand the economy is bad and if you have a hardship situation, please let me know! Odds are we can work something out.)
Dates: September 13, 2010 to October 15, 2010
Deadline to sign up: by September 11, 2010 (though I do sometimes take people at the last minute if there is still room in the class)
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.
Class size is limited!

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer. You can participate as much or as little as you like in email discussions.

Weeks 1-3:
This is when you do the prep work with lessons that are designed to get you thinking in new ways about your project. Among other things, I'll cover characters and book structure, imagery and use of names, POV and how to make sentence and paragraph structure work for you. If you choose, you can post answers and get help brainstorming ideas for your book but NO ONE is required to do so!

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (October 2, 2010 through October 10, 2010)
This is your chance to write better and faster than you ever have before, to discover what YOUR natural first draft will look like and ways to fit writing into your life that you may never have thought of before.

Week 5:
Here's your chance to look at the experience of week 4 and use it to create a writing method that works for YOU and is tailored to your most natural writing style. We'll also look at how to revise your work in the fastest, most effective way possible and I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on query letters, synopses, etc.

Does it work? Well, a number of people who have taken this class are now published or under contract with material they worked on during my classes!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out. Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

A Short Survey

2010-08-17T10:26:00.002-05:00

I know it's been a while. I've been pondering what to post here that would actually be of value to anyone and life has been a bit....hectic.

I've had a few requests for my Book in a Week online class and before I schedule the next one I wanted to make sure it would be what people want so I've created a short survey. It's at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/KZPNV5K

I plan to keep the survey open until Friday August 20, 2010.

Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to fill it out!

class postponed

2010-04-10T15:09:00.002-05:00

Well, my class for the Writers League of Texas has been postponed until April 26. I'm really looking forward to it because I love helping people discover their ideal writing process and how to do promotion in a way that feels like fun AND will be more effective than trying to do what everyone else is doing.

In writing--as with everything--when we do things we love, in a way that is ideal for us, what we do is far more likely to work and stand out because it's unique. Passion is infectious! As for the writing itself, there are as many ways to write as there are writers and each of us is different in what would be ideal. I remember years ago, people telling me I should get up every morning at 5 am and write for an hour or two before my kids got up. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN! EVER! At that hour of the morning, my brain simply does not function. On the other hand, for the people saying it, that really was the ideal thing to do.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to this class--especially since it will come right before the WLT Editor and Agents Conference. I love that after taking my class, people will be able to clearly articulate what their book is about, why readers will love it and how they intend to promote it in a way that is unique and likely to get attention.

(If you're interested, the link to sign up is in the post before this one.)

Whether you are a writer or not, I hope you live on your own terms--doing what you love in a way that is absolutely right for YOU. For most of us, that includes taking into account how the people we love will be affected and still finding a way to be ourselves.

Brainstorming Beginning of a Book to End with Promotion

2010-03-24T10:16:00.002-05:00

As writers, we're used to brainstorming our stories/books. How often, though, do we visualize the end of the process as we begin? By that, I don't just mean the completion of the book, I mean EVERYTHING--from the final book to the process of writing it to pitching it to promoting it.

Because I think there is such value in looking at the writing process this way, I'm going to be teaching an online course for the Writers League of Texas. I'll be taking the class through the process of brainstorming where right from the beginning, the writer has in mind the end game. Just as important, I'll be helping writers look at what fits THEM. What are the unique talents and interests and life situations they bring to the book and their careers.

This is something I often do when coaching writers and now I get to incorporate it into a class--an online class. I love online classes because everything is by email so people can read and respond to lessons any time of day or night--and can be anywhere in the world.

Anyway, if you're interested, here is the link. As I said, I'm doing this through the Writers League of Texas. Brainstorming Your Book and Your Career: Creating a Pathway to Success.

Please feel free, also, to pass the information on to anyone you think may be interested.

Differences

2010-03-09T14:03:00.003-06:00

I'm about to head off to New Jersey fairly soon. I'll see my son. I'll stay with friends--the ones about to move. And I've been talking with my daughter on the phone. It all has me thinking how different people can be. What is primary concern to one person may be secondary or negligible to another.

If we're writers, it's especially important that we keep in mind how differently people can react to a situation. As human beings, our lives will go more smoothly if we remember that not everyone shares our priorities and/or expectations.

What might drive me crazy might be an essential need for someone else--and vice versa. The best thing I can do in that kind of situation is to listen--not only because I care about others but because it helps me as a writer to understand how someone else might experience the world in a very different way than I do.

I must admit I love that there is so much variety in the world! It's probably part of why I love being a writer--because I get to experience through my characters what I might never choose to do in my own life.

Here's hoping there is wonderful variety in your lives as well and that it brings you joy!

PS I've come to realize that one of my strengths as a writers coach is that often I can help resolve someone's challenges in just one phone call. In other words, people don't have to have long term commitments with me for coaching--though some choose to do so. I'll probably post more about this in future blog posts because I think it's important to realize that when we find what works most naturally for us we can accomplish more than we thought possible....

Thanks to the Pflugerville Library

2010-02-24T10:48:00.003-06:00

I'd like to say thank you to the Pflugerville Library for hosting such a wonderful Romance Readers event on February 13th! It was so successful that now they're planning one for mystery readers. I love when writers and libraries can support each other like this!

Meanwhile...Austin had SNOW yesterday! Yes, where I am we actually got a couple of inches. I grew up in a snowy part of the country so it wasn't really a new experience for me. Still, when something is so rare, one enjoys it much more. And it was fun watching my dog stare at these white flakes falling all around her, clearly baffled as to what it was.

Pflugerville Library Event

2010-02-06T15:48:00.007-06:00

For anyone in the Austin area who loves to read, please come to the Pflugerville Library Romance Readers event Saturday February 13 from 10 am to noon. There will be games, refreshments, several romance authors on hand and a chance to win autographed books. Whether you prefer Regency romance, contemporary, African American or Inspirational, we've got writers who will be there.

I love libraries. Before the internet that's where I did all my research. Even now, I love going to libraries and looking through the books, thrilled when I find something unexpected. I suspect a lot of writers feel that way. Maybe that's why it was so easy to round up several of my fellow Austin Romance Writers to donate books and/or show up.

Here's more information on the event (sent out by the library):

Come to the Pflugerville Community Library to meet published authors and fellow romance novel enthusiasts at the Romance Readers Social on Saturday, February 13, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Meet and mingle with other romance genre lovers and with published romance authors April Kihlstrom, Evelyn Palfrey, Jane Myers Perrine, Farrah Rochon, and Tracy Wolf. Bring along a gently used paperback book for our book swap and enjoy fun games like Romance Reader Five Square and Who Wrote It?, matching novel covers to authors. Refreshments will be served and a raffle will be held to win several autographed romance novels!

For directions and more information on the library itself: Pflugerville Library

Book in a Week Class for February

2010-01-21T15:44:00.002-06:00

Have you started a manuscript and not finished it? Does life or self-doubt seem to get in the way? Do you ever feel as if you're banging your head against the wall trying to write a book someone will want to buy? Would you like help brainstorming elements of your story? Explore the possibilities of who you can be as a writer? Would you like to write better, faster and more easily than you ever have before?

Book in a Week Online Writing Class

Cost: $80 ($40 if you have taken it before)
Dates: February 1, 2010 to March 5, 2010
Deadline to sign up: January 29, 2010
Lessons: Everything is handled via email so that you can do the work at your convenience.
Class size is limited!

Class Description:

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer.

Weeks 1-3: Preparing to write the first draft of a book in one week
Creating compelling characters or how to write about real people in nonfiction
Planning plot elements or structure in a nonfiction book
Significance of names
Effective paragraph and sentence structure
Using imagery and sensory detail to add impact
Writing effective dialogue
Creating a productive writing environment
Enlisting the support of those around you
Mentally gearing yourself up to write faster (and better) than you thought you could

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (February 20, 2010 through February 28, 2010) (This is about discovering how writing fits into YOUR life. You can't do it wrong. You won't fail. No matter what happens you will discover more about yourself as a writer than you thought possible during that ONE WEEK of writing!)

Week 5: Evaluating the writing experience itself
Making revisions
Sending out material

Book in a Week is a process that will help you get organized, learn techniques that make YOUR writing easier, faster, better and more FUN! Learn who YOU are as a writer and what works best for YOU. Discover the elements that make a compelling story. Write that book you've been wanting to write—and do it faster than you ever thought possible!

Those who have taken my classes before know that I like to ask the questions no one else thinks to ask. A number of people who have taken this class are now under contract with material they worked on during one of my classes.

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out. Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at april.kihlstrom@gmail.com. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

2010 and a new class

2010-01-03T15:56:00.004-06:00

New Year's are a funny thing. Just a date on a calendar. And yet we invest the date with such meaning. Maybe it's because it's so useful to have a reason to stop and rethink our priorities and our lives and the patterns with which we live them. The New Year is a chance to do just that.

If we're writers and we're writing about the new year, it can be really useful to consider how the people in what we're writing react. What they choose to look at and changes they choose to make or even the choice not to do these things highlights personalities in a very powerful way and create emotional points of connection for readers of the story or article.

I am offering an entirely new class this new year. It's for the Beau Monde and a real bargain. Here's the link to my class 7 Days of Motivation which is about jumpstarting your writing for 2010. Since it's being offered by the Beau Monde, you need to sign up through that link.

I hope that 2010 brings all of us joy, increasingly good health, love and much success in everything you do!

Traditions

2009-12-24T13:23:00.002-06:00

I can't believe I'm so late posting. But it's been a hectic month. As I write this, my daughter is flying in to spend Christmas with me. I find myself thinking about traditions and how they reflect our priorities.

What are your traditions? Or, if you're a writer, what are the traditions your characters have for major holidays? Do they change over time and if so how?

I know that for me, Christmas traditions changed after my divorce. Now I have an artificial tree instead of a real one and it goes up beginning of December instead of 10 days or so before Christmas. I have a few ornaments from when I was married but most are new.

Now that I have my dog, presents go under the tree right before we're ready to open them because otherwise she's likely to decide they must be for her.

I've gone from some holidays that used to be big family affairs to quiet times for just me. Others are now more than they were before. As my life has changed, so have some of my traditions.

With our characters, their traditions help to define them too. What matters most to them? Lots of presents? Time with family--or do they not have family to be with? Is their tradition to go and volunteer somewhere or do they celebrate at home? Do they always go to movies on Christmas day? Or is it important to them to play sports outdoors?

How do two people coming together in a relationship adapt so that what matters most for each in terms of tradition is honored but they also forge some new ones of their own?

For a writer like me, it's impossible not to ponder these things.

Whatever your traditions are, I hope they bring you some joy and comfort at this holiday season.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T15:22:00.002-06:00

Today I'm more conscious than ever of how lucky I am for all the wonderful people in my life--both those who are in my life now and those who were part of it at other times. I'm also grateful for all the dogs that have been part of my life--now and in the past.

I'm thankful for the glorious weather here. I find myself remembering other Thanksgivings and driving places in snow and ice or pouring rain.

I'm thankful that some of my friends are finding their ways out of crises of one kind or another and that others are enjoying remarkable good fortune.

I'm grateful for all those who take my online writing classes and for the communities of writers to which I belong.

I'm grateful for all the little blessings every day--even when there are also challenges.

I hope that each of you reading this have wonderful blessings in your lives, too. Happy Thanksgiving!

Life Happens

2009-11-17T09:06:00.002-06:00

Life happens. A couple I know, friends, found that out last week. He was laid off with only 3 weeks severance pay after more than a decade with his company. Like many people, they lived paycheck to paycheck. They had to cash out their 401k earlier this year to pay off bills. They have medical conditions that will make it difficult if not impossible to get private medical insurance. And she doesn't have a job either.

Life happens. In an instant everything can change. As a writer, I know that it is how people respond to what happens that matters most.

My friends are scrambling to find out options. What services might they be eligible for? What job opportunities can he apply for? Who do they know who might have information that might be useful. They are cutting expenses, pulling together, reaching out for support and finding ways to laugh even when they most want to cry.

Other people might have reacted very differently. As human beings, it's good to remember that. If we're writers, then it's good to remember that it's not just what happens to our characters that matters but rather how they choose to respond to those events. Every person/character will be a little different. It is those differences that are interesting and what we and readers want to know about. Will the characters surprise us? Teach us something new--a way of responding that we wouldn't have thought of ourselves? Or is it an object lesson from which we learn how not to be?

Life happens. We get to choose how we--and our characters!--deal with it.

Doesn't Feel Like November

2009-11-04T13:53:00.002-06:00

It doesn't feel like November. In part, that's because I grew up in the northeast and by November it was COLD. It's much warmer here. Still, usually by Halloween it feels like fall to me. Not sure why this year is so different.

Speaking of Halloween, I love that holiday! Maybe because I always seemed to be hungry as a kid and the one time of year I wasn't was when I could gorge on the calories in candy after Halloween. Which means that every year I'm happy to give out candy to kids who come to my door. (I ran out after 70 kids this year!) When I cringe at the cost of the candy I buy, I remind myself it really isn't that much and I'll never know which kids who seem to come from middle class families might be going hungry at home. Plus I love seeing the costumes.

Meanwhile, I'll happily enjoy the sunshine and warmth and shudder every time I see snowstorms elsewhere on the news....

Pflugerville Library and National Novel Writing Month

2009-10-21T14:59:00.002-05:00

Pflugerville Library may be small but boy are they supporting NaNoWriMo in a big way! Just look at some of the events coming up. Becca Sexton writes:

"October 21st at 7pm, we're having a novel planning session. Local NaNo vets will talk about the pros and cons of planning your novel before the November 1st start date and share their tips and tricks for surviving NaNoWriMo. Then, on Sunday, November 1st, we're having an "all-day" kick-off event at the library (from 1--6). There will be refreshments, goodie bags, writing games, and plenty of time to get those novels started! We're having write-ins on November 12, 19, and 24 from 6--8pm and a Wrap Party on December 1st from 6--8 pm. At the Wrap Party, we'll do a raffle drawing, share excerpts from our novels, and award a prize to NaNo "winners."

We're also having an author talk on November 3 at 6:30. Daniel and Dina Nayeria, authors of the YA supernatural novel Another Faust will be on hand to talk about their book and the writing process."

I love libraries and this is one of the reasons why!

Last Book in a Week class of 2009

2009-10-11T10:52:00.002-05:00

With holidays the way they are, this will be the last Book in a Week class it's practical for me to offer in 2009. The good thing is that it will sort of coincide with NaNoWriMo.

This isn't your typical writing class. I'm told I ask questions people have never had asked before and that it helps them see writing in a whole new way. Some of the projects people have worked on in my classes are already under contract.

The funny thing is, I've also had people let me know it changed how they see life. They are interacting with others differently because so many of the questions that are about writing also apply to how we see life and the people around us.

My goal with my classes is always to help people discover who they are as writers and how they write best and what works for their books. Running through all of it are ideas that will increase the odds that an editor and/or agent will be interested in their work.

So....if any of that sounds appealing to you or you know someone who might think so here is the information:

Book in a Week $75 ($40 if you have taken it before)
Dates: October 19, 2009 to November 20, 2009
Deadline to sign up: October 16, 2009
Class size is limited.

Note: All lessons and class discussion are by email so they can be read and responded to at whatever time of day is most convenient for YOU.

Class Description:

Book in a Week is a process that will help you get organized, learn techniques that make YOUR writing easier, faster, better and more FUN! Learn who YOU are as a writer and what works best for YOU. Discover the elements that make a compelling story. Write that book you've been wanting to write—and do it faster than you ever thought possible!

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer.

Weeks 1-3:

Preparing to write the first draft of a book in one week
Creating compelling characters or how to write about real people in nonfiction
Planning plot elements or structure in a nonfiction book
Significance of names
Effective paragraph and sentence structure
Using imagery and sensory detail to add impact
Writing effective dialogue
Creating a productive writing environment
Enlisting the support of those around you
Mentally gearing yourself up to write faster (and better) than you thought you could

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (November 7, 2009 through November 15, 2009)

This is about discovering how writing fits into YOUR life. You can't do it wrong. You won't fail. No matter what happens you will discover more about yourself as a writer than you thought possible during that ONE WEEK of writing!

Week 5:

Evaluating the writing experience itself
Making revisions
Sending out material

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal. To sign up send an email to April with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out. Note: If you do not get a response back from me, please try emailing me at April2. Unfortunately email does sometimes simply disappear into cyberspace.

The Oceans We've Never Seen

2009-10-06T11:22:00.001-05:00

A native American shaman stands on the shore of an ocean some five hundred years ago. All his life he's lived in the high desert and never seen anything like this. He might have heard about big bodies of water but until this moment when he stands there seeing the ocean, it was not something he could have comprehended.

That was an image I had when I was doing a visualization exercise and it made me think and wonder about the oceans we've never seen—and can't comprehend unless and until we do.

As a writer, I'm used to thinking I can imagine anything. But my imagination tends to rely on photos. When I've relied solely on descriptions and then seen a place or object I've read about, so often it turns out to be very different. Even so, those descriptions expand my horizons.

I value expanded horizons, you see. I value discovering the oceans I've never seen and having my comprehension of what's possible expand. I hope that to some degree at least, it's something I do for readers and when I teach my online writing classes—bringing them oceans they've never seen before. It's why I try to have the unexpected in my books and ask the questions no one else asks in my class lessons.

I look forward always to discovering new oceans I've never seen. How about you?

online Book in a Week class

2009-09-08T11:43:00.002-05:00

Reminder: Deadline to sign up for Revisions class is September 11.

Book in a Week Class
Cost: $75 ($40 if you have taken it before)
Dates: September 21, 2009 to October 23, 2009
Deadline to sign up: September 19, 2009
Class size is limited!

Note: All lessons and class discussion are by email so they can be read and responded to at whatever time of day is most convenient for YOU.

Class Description:
Have you started a manuscript and not finished it? Does life or self-doubt seem to get in the way? Do you ever feel as if you're banging your head against the wall trying to write a book someone will want to buy? Would you like help brainstorming elements of your story? Explore the possibilities of who you can be as a writer? Would you like to write better, faster and more easily than you ever have before?

Book in a Week is a process that will help you get organized, learn techniques that make YOUR writing easier, faster, better and more FUN! Learn who YOU are as a writer and what works best for YOU. Discover the elements that make a compelling story. Write that book you've been wanting to write—and do it faster than you ever thought possible!

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer.

Weeks 1-3:
Preparing to write the first draft of a book in one week
Creating compelling characters or how to write about real people in nonfiction
Planning plot elements or structure in a nonfiction book
Significance of names
Effective paragraph and sentence structure
Using imagery and sensory detail to add impact
Writing effective dialogueCreating a productive writing environment
Enlisting the support of those around you
Mentally gearing yourself up to write faster (and better) than you thought you could

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (October 10, 2009 through October 18, 2009)
This is about discovering how writing fits into YOUR life. You can't do it wrong. You won't fail. No matter what happens you will discover more about yourself as a writer than you thought possible during that ONE WEEK of writing!

Week 5:
Evaluating the writing experience itselfMaking revisionsSending out material

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal. To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before.

Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out.

Revisions online writing class

2009-09-01T13:39:00.003-05:00

I was going to start this class next week but then someone reminded me that September 7 is labor day so....

Class: Revisions From the Top Down
Dates: Monday September 14, 2009 to September 25, 2009
(Note: It is strongly recommended that students reread their manuscripts the weekend prior to class.)
Cost: $30 ($20 if you have taken an online Revisions class with me before)
Deadline to sign up: September 11, 2009
Format: all lessons and responses by email on a private class email loop

Have you been to a conference? Had a manuscript requested by an agent or editor? Are you just stuck on what to do next to make your novel work? Revisions From the Top Down is the fastest and most effective way I know to revise a manuscript. It's a process that will save you time and give you a new way to look at what you've written.

This revamped/revised two week online class will take you through the process of honing your manuscript to grab an agent or editor's attention and never let go! A critique (if you choose) of your first page is included.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before.

Home Again

2009-08-22T15:04:00.002-05:00

It's good to be home again with my Sophy.

I loved seeing my son at his group home and seeing old friends. I really loved giving my all day Book in a Week workshop! There were great questions and I had new material to share so it was a chance to play in a new way with possibilities.

On the way home (and flying to New Jersey) I brainstormed story ideas. The most promising one has already begun to morph significantly into a very different type of book than I first thought. But that's part of the fun of being a writer--to discover unexpected directions our stories might take.

Julie & Julia, New Jersey, My Daughter

2009-08-11T10:57:00.003-05:00

I'm off to New Jersey this week. Ironically my daughter has to be here in Austin while I'm gone. But it's good to see her and I can't wait to see my NJRW friends and give my all day workshop on Book in a Week.

Last night my daughter and I went to the Alamo Drafthouse and saw Julie & Julia. It was wonderful! I also found myself thinking again that it's about how one feels watching the movie--just as it's about how one feels reading a book. In this case, there was a sense of possibilities, laughter, determination, hope and love. In other words, it was a celebration of my favorite emotions and a double bonus to be able to share the experience with my daughter.

I need to pack. I need to make sure everything fits. I need to enjoy the time I have with my daughter before I leave.

Here's hoping all of you are having wonderful experiences too!

Technology

2009-07-29T14:35:00.003-05:00

When technology works, I love it. When it doesn't I want to cuss like crazy. Like this week when I discovered that at least one person sent me email last week asking to sign up for an online class and I never got it!

In her case, she emailed me again (wise woman!). I was able to add her to the class and bring her up to speed without much trouble. But it left me worrying who else might have had email to me (or mine to them) end up disappearing into a black hole in cyberspace.

Then there was the time my cell phone fell apart. Literally. They couldn't even retrieve any information from the simm(?) card inside.

Which, as a writer, got me thinking......

What if? What if a hero/heroine lose contact because an email gets lost in cyberspace?

What if a critical piece of information gets lost when a cell phone with the video gets destroyed?

What if a protagonist relies on technology and that technology (whatever it might be) fails?

Lots and lots of lovely possibilities!

Hmmm, so maybe even when technology doesn't work, there's a silver lining--at least if one is a writer looking for plot!

-------
PS Just added a link to this post on Facebook and it pulled up a jpeg photo from my blog post on the Sacred Shelf bookstore! Clearly the technology gremlins are out to get me this week......

new online writing classes

2009-07-21T10:09:00.003-05:00

Such a gap and now 2 posts from me in just a few days. What can I say? Life happens!

I know it's short notice but I have some time constraints and I promised some people I would offer these classes so.....

If you're getting ready to write you might be interested in my Brainstorming class:

Class: Brainstorming Your Next Book
Dates: Monday July 27, 2009 to August 7, 2009
Cost: $30
Format: all lessons and responses by email on a private class email loop
Note: Class size limited to allow for mutual brainstorming (encouraged but not required).

Are you ready to start a new project? Would you love to have a small group help you brainstorm? Would you just like some questions that will help you get started and think about things in a new way?

Have you heard about my Book in a Week classes (or taken one) but don't want to commit to 5 weeks? Would you like to look at the brainstorming ideas from that class in a whole new way and at a less intense pace?

Brainstorming Your Next Novel is a two week online class designed to help you get a jump start on your next book. It's designed to use the fluid way our brains naturally work. The focus will be on how you can create a book that satisfies both your creative soul and delights agents, editors and readers.

If you have a completed manuscript that you're ready to revise:

Class: Revisions From the Top Down
Dates: Friday July 24, 2009 to August 7, 2009
Cost: $30 ($20 if you have taken an online Revisions class with me before)
Format: all lessons and responses by email on a private class email loop

Have you been to a conference? Had a manuscript requested by an agent or editor? Are you just stuck on what to do next to make your novel work?

Revisions From the Top Down is the fastest and most effective way I know to revise a manuscript. It's a process that will save you time and give you a new way to look at what you've written.

This revamped/revised two week online class will take you through the process of honing your manuscript to grab an agent or editor's attention and never let go! A critique (if you choose) of your first page is included. (Note: Between Friday July 24 and Monday July 27 you will be asked to read through your manuscript WITHOUT making any changes.)

To sign up for either class, send an email to aprilkihlstrom@ yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Note: If you are signing up for the Revisions class and have taken it before please let me know.

Sacred Shelf Bookstore

2009-07-19T14:38:00.004-05:00

I am sooooo far behind posting to my blog! I've begun volunteering in the Sacred Shelf bookstore at the Unity Center of Austin and there's so much to learn. Note the word volunteer. Given all the fabulous stuff they carry, this may end up being a very expensive volunteer gig! I mean: Goddess drums,

jewelry, shawls and purses,

aroma therapy, candles and cards,

cds and all sorts of metaphysical books,

and did I mention jewelry?

It's a very cool place to hang out.

And just to keep this focused on writing....imagine all the stories I can make up in my head as I look around at all these fascinating things....

July 4th

2009-07-04T15:03:00.004-05:00

I try to practice gratitude every day. Today at the top of my list are the men and women who have sacrificed so that we can have and keep the freedom we enjoy in the United States.

I'm grateful this nation was founded on the concept of liberty and justice and the pursuit of happiness.

I'm grateful that we are able, in this country, to disagree with each other without having to go to jail for that privilege and that changes of power can happen without requiring revolutions.

I'm grateful that our country has been able to evolve since it was founded and that we keep getting closer to the ideal that all men (and women) are created equal.

I'm grateful that we are a country where we can disagree with each other and still come together in times of crisis to help each other out.

I'm grateful we are a nation of possibilities.

Star Trek

2009-06-25T14:02:00.001-05:00

I finally got to see the new Star Trek movie yesterday and I loved it. I didn't want to leave the theater! I'd like to talk a little about it from a writer's perspective.

One of the things I loved about it was the feeling of hope and daring bravado. I wanted to be part of that grand adventure that Enterprise was going on. The feeling was so powerful that I've been thinking about the movie ever since and why it worked, plus what it tells me, as a writer, about sequels.

Hope. It's one of the most powerful emotions we can have and perhaps one of the strongest antidotes to fear. There's hope in this movie. Hope that against all odds, overwhelming evil power can be defeated. As human beings we want and need to believe that. So....as writers, hope is something very powerful to include as part of our books.

Daring. Life can be scary at times—and for many people it is right now. The reaction may be to cling to what we know, what feels safe and yet rarely is that the safest strategy. Often the safest thing we can do is let ourselves be vulnerable and take risks. Not foolish risks but risks like the characters take in Star Trek—risks for a greater goal, a greater good, because it matters and because the outcome is so important. In our books, the risks our characters learn to take need to matter, too, and if we do it well can inspire readers to take good risks in their own lives.

Connection. On a very deep and profound level we all need to feel connected to others. The movie lets us see characters we've loved in the past. This is one reason series books are often so popular with readers—the chance to see beloved characters again and again.

Now about sequels and prequels. How often does a sequel/prequel work—especially if it's written by someone other than the original author? This does. Why? Because the twist was added that now things have changed. The characters can be somewhat different because different events are shaping them. At the same time, the have the same essential personalities they did before—though in some cases (okay Spock) we get a different perspective on those personalities. Both the familiar and the new. So there's a reason to keep watching, to want more Star Trek movies to see with this new crew.

Sure I have quibbles. What Trekkie or science oriented person doesn't? But ultimately what I care most about is how the movie made me FEEL. And that's an important lesson for any of us who are writers. What readers will ultimately care about most is how we make them feel.

Happy Writing everyone!

Changes

2009-06-12T12:57:00.005-05:00

Life is always changing. And if we're writers that's a good thing because stories are about changes. A story begins when something changes in the lives of our major characters.

My daughter moved in briefly with me and has now moved out again. (That's part of why I haven't had a chance to post in a while.) It was great to have her here and good to know she's moving on to the next step. Sophy, my dog, is moping, of course, and spending a lot of time with her stuffed squeaky bear to cope.

Change is opportunity as well as challenge. It's growth as well as stress. It's a chance to move in new directions. That's true in life and it's true in our writing. If you're a writer and stuck in your story, it can be very useful to ask how you want or need your character to grow and what change would push them in the right direction. How will they resist the change or will they go with it willingly? One of the joys of being a writer is that we get to play with all the possibilities!

Baffled by My Space and Facebook

2009-05-31T15:57:00.001-05:00

Well, I finally looked at my My Space account and set up a Facebook account and I admit to being baffled as to what to do next.

Part of me worries that trying to keep up on My Space and Facebook is going to take more time than I want. Part of me says: Get over it, this is the future!

It's a strange experience trying to sort it all out. Anyone have any suggestions for me?

Next Online Class

2009-05-16T13:16:00.003-05:00

Note: In a previous post I wrote why I believe Book in a Week is so powerful. To see that post click here.

Book in a Week $75 ($40 if you have taken it before)
Dates: June 1, 2009 to July 3, 2009
Deadline to sign up: May 29, 2009
Class size is limited!

Note: All lessons and class discussion are by email so they can be read and responded to at whatever time of day is most convenient for YOU.

Class Description:

Have you started a manuscript and not finished it? Does life or self-doubt seem to get in the way? Do you ever feel as if you're banging your head against the wall trying to write a book someone will want to buy? Would you like help brainstorming elements of your story? Explore the possibilities of who you can be as a writer? Would you like to write better, faster and more easily than you ever have before?

Book in a Week is a process that will help you get organized, learn techniques that make YOUR writing easier, faster, better and more FUN! Learn who YOU are as a writer and what works best for YOU. Discover the elements that make a compelling story. Write that book you've been wanting to write—and do it faster than you ever thought possible!

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. And it will help you discover who YOU are as a writer.

Weeks 1-3:
Preparing to write the first draft of a book in one week
Creating compelling characters or how to write about real people in nonfiction
Planning plot elements or structure in a nonfiction book
Significance of namesEffective paragraph and sentence structure
Using imagery and sensory detail to add impact
Writing effective dialogueCreating a productive writing environment
Enlisting the support of those around you
Mentally gearing yourself up to write faster (and better) than you thought you could

Week 4:
Intensive Writing Week (June 20, 2009 through June 28, 2009)
(This is about discovering how writing fits into YOUR life. You can't do it wrong. You won't fail. No matter what happens you will discover more about yourself as a writer than you thought possible during that ONE WEEK of writing!)

Week 5:
Evaluating the writing experience itself
Making revisions
Publishing world info and sending out material

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the Book in a Week class:

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal. To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with Book in a Week class in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before.

Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out.

Permission granted to forward to anyone who may be interested in taking this class.

Grief

2009-04-26T13:58:00.002-05:00

Grief is a funny thing. It hits people in different ways. For me, part of it is that I don't much feel like putting up blog posts or things like that—it just doesn't seem important to do so.

I lost a friend a few weeks ago. One of the sweetest, kindest, most spiritual people I've known. It wasn't as if we were best buddies or that I saw this friend often but...his sudden death still leaves a profound gap and it hurts that I didn't have a chance to say good-bye. And it resonates with all the other losses I've had in my life.

And I haven't felt much like posting to my blogs.

But...I'm also a writer and it is part of who I am to think as a writer. I find myself thinking about how different people handle grief in different ways. I remember how when it was my parents, I felt cold all the time. I note that this time, in this case, that isn't happening but odd moments bring the person to mind. I find myself noting, too, how others have and continue to react to this person's death—what an impact one life can have.

It is the individuality of the responses—as well as what they all have in common—that strikes me as a writer. If I were to put the death of a character in a novel, I know that each person in the book who reacted, would react in unique ways. Part of our job, if we are writers, is to illuminate the human condition and explore possibilities and in doing so perhaps give readers permission to be who they are in how they react to life and death.

So, my apologies for such a long gap between posts. Hug those people who are important to you and make sure you tell them so. Notice, if you are a writer, the wonderfully diverse ways the people you know react to life and death and try to show that diversity in what you write.

Wishing all of you the best,
April

PS On an organizational note, I've been asked when my next Book in a Week class will start and I'm tentatively thinking the last week of May or the first week of June.

Why Book in a Week

2009-04-07T10:06:00.002-05:00

I understand the confusion. I was dragged into my first Book in a Week (BIAW) kicking and screaming swearing I couldn't do it and the idea was crazy! Now I believe in the concept with all my heart—even for people who never want to actually write the first draft of a book in one week.

Why? Because it's a gift we can give ourselves as writers.

For one week, we tell ourselves and those around us that we ARE writers and WRITING MATTERS!

For one week, we ask for support in making writing a priority in our lives. (As a wife and mother, even with contracts in hand, I often felt everyone and everything else should come first.)

For one week, we let ourselves write with total freedom from worrying about “the rules.”

For one week, we dedicate ourselves to writing with joy.

For one week, we write what we want to write, what's closest to our hearts.

For one week we trust our muse, our subconscious, the Divine working through us—however you want to look at it, we trust what we write. We go with the flow, we DO NOT REWRITE! We trust that whatever we are writing is what we need to write in that moment.

In one week we know whether or not we love this project.

In one week we know what it is we need to find out to finish writing this book.

In one week we know whether or not it's likely to work out.

For one week, we are WRITERS.

It's only one week, so we can take chances and write those things we were told we couldn't do.

It's only one week, so we can try new things and PLAY.

It's only one week, so we can risk trusting ourselves because after all, how many times have we wasted more than one week not writing because we were so afraid we would get it wrong?

It's only one week, so if it doesn't work, we can throw it out and take another week and try again.

It's one week of being who we are at our truest depth.

If we are writers, I truly believe that in writing we tap into something that will also let us cope with any and all of the non-writing challenges in our lives as well. I can't explain it, but I have seen the truth of this over and over and over again.

When we write this way, writing faster than ever, trusting ourselves, we can then step back and look at the experience and see what and when and where and how we wrote best. We begin to know what works for US—not anyone else, but what is right for US. We begin to see our true voice as well as the tropes we are drawn to most. We can begin to see what is natural to OUR first draft. We can begin to understand that a first draft only has to be a first draft—nothing else—just a first draft.

You may never want to try to write that fast again but you will have gained priceless insight into yourself as a writer and your process and what you write.

This is why I teach Book in a Week classes. This is why I believe so whole-heartedly in the process.

People who have tried this have gone on to write award winning books. Some were under contract within a short period of time after taking the class. There is power in writing from the heart and writing true to who you are. Your most natural voice emerges. You are more likely to write that unique story that tugs at the heart—because you are being true to your muse. And you are most likely to see clearly the areas in which you may want to learn more about how to write what you want to write.

If any of this sounds good to you, my next online Book in a Week class starts Monday, April 13. You can email me at aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com to sign up. Let me know if you've taken the class before. The class runs 5 weeks with 3 weeks of prep work, one intensive writing week, then a week to evaluate the experience, talk a bit about revisions and sending out manuscripts, etc. All lessons are handled by email so you can read them at any time of day (or night!) that works for YOU. Cost is $75 for first time students, $40 if you've taken it before. Note: If cost is an issue, please let me know and on a case by case basis we may be able to work something out.

What I love about TEACHING this class is that I get to share the things it took me years to learn and help you write better faster. I share how to brainstorm your book and the critical elements your book must have. I share with you the things I've learned over my 30 years of being a published author that I've never seen elsewhere. There's a reason even published authors have taken my class. I hope you will give me a chance to help YOU.

New Member Tea

2009-03-29T15:27:00.002-05:00

Austin RWA has a tradition I really like. The chapter holds a new member tea where new members can meet each other and board members and published authors in a relaxed setting. We get to laugh together, introduce ourselves and new members can ask questions—about the chapter and/or about how the publishing world works.

Writing is a solitary occupation. And we writers often see the world a little differently than everyone else does. It helps to have a support group of fellow writers who understand about the moments our characters start arguing with us and the moments when we doubt our own skills as writers. It's great to have people who can look at our work and tell us what's good as well as what we can improve and who can celebrate our achievements with us.

We all long—writers or not—for that sense of connection with others. Austin RWA has found a great way to help us achieve that.

Cell Phones and Playing What If?

2009-03-20T14:48:00.002-05:00

I keep my cell phones forever—until they die. This week my flip phone literally fell apart. So I went shopping for a new one. I was pleased to discover I could get one free that for now uses my current plan with my wireless company but will let me upgrade to all sorts of nifty features later—IF I choose. But I don't have to.

It made me think about how different people approach life. Some want the latest stuff—whether they can afford it or not. Some always choose the cheapest option—even if they could afford better and from an objective point of view they would be better off doing so. Most of us are somewhere in the middle, trying to find a balance in between most and least expensive based on what matters to us.

As a writer, of course, and because I'm teaching an online course on creating characters starting this Monday, I immediately started picturing different characters going into a cell phone store and the different phones they would choose.

It's a useful exercise for any writer about any kind of purchase. If your character went into a store to buy anything—food, clothes, cell phone, toy, etc.--what kind would they choose and why? To take it a step further, one could ask: What would the people around them (friends, family and/or co-workers) think and say about that purchase?

One of the great things about being a writer is getting to play games like this!

Wise Sophy

2009-03-12T12:53:00.004-05:00

I've mentioned my dog Sophy before. She's pretty smart. I knew that but this week she's taken things to a new level.

Sophy has tried a number of things to get my attention when I'm working. When she realized that sitting there looking cute wasn't enough, she tried pawing my foot. When I shrieked but went back to ignoring her she tried barking. When that didn't work, she tried climbing in my lap and since she's a fairly large dog that's quite a trick!

But this week Sophy discovered something new. Sometimes when I need to unwind I use my Wii. Naturally, Sophy disapproves since she thinks if I'm not working I should be paying attention to her!

She tried helping me with Wii Fit and seemed very surprised that I didn't appreciate her help so now she sort of grumbles but just watches. Mostly. She did, however, come up with a very effective method of stopping me from playing other Wii games. She climbs on my lap and starts kissing me! I start laughing so much that I put down the controller and pet her because who can be mad at someone who is being so affectionate?

Then I was thinking about how rarely we humans are as smart as Sophy. When one thing doesn't work with a fellow human we care about, how often do we keep trying new things and how often do we keep trying the same thing--maybe more forcefully? Above all, if we want someone to pay more attention to us, how often do we get angry and vehemently say so versus how often do we become more loving--as Sophy has?

Here's to smart dogs and the wisdom they can teach us!

Coping With Challenges

2009-03-04T13:49:00.002-06:00

I've been think a lot about challenges this week. In part it's because of challenges facing friends and because of what we see on the news. It's also in part because I'm working out my class lessons for my Perfect Pitch workshop (and pitching to editors and agents can certainly be stressful), and because I'm looking at story structure in my Book in a Week class.

What I keep coming back to is the realization that the stronger we feel, the more sure of our self-worth (or the quality of our writing), the easier it is to face challenges head on.

This is true for our characters, too, if we're writers. If we're going to have our characters step out of their comfort zone and do something that has in the past scared them, our readers are far more likely to believe the scenario IF we show how in some way our characters have come to believe more in themselves and their capabilities.

So if we are facing a challenge of any kind, one of the best things we can do is make a list of our strengths and past successes. This list is a reminder that we have succeeded in the past and can succeed again. When we focus on the best we can be, we are far more likely to find the incentive and courage and resilience to become even better.

We can make a list of resources available to us—which for so many includes faith in something greater than ourselves.

We can make a list of things that make us smile and make a point of using that list to create reasons to smile every day no matter what is happening to or around us. Most of us weren't raised to think this way but truly it helps to build resilience and better health and encourages our ability to find creative solutions to our challenges.

How do you face challenges and/or what might your characters do to face theirs?

Next Online Classes

2009-02-22T14:53:00.006-06:00

UPDATE: I'm definitely offering Book in a Week starting March 2 and ending April 3. Please let me know ASAP if you want to sign up.

Also a quick note on why Perfect Pitch: I often coach writers (in an impromptu as well as formal way) on how to pitch their projects to editors and agents. These pitches tend to be quite successful. I know that pitching can be stressful and this class is designed to take away some of that stress and up the odds that a writer will get a request for their manuscript from their dream editor or agent.

Why the character workshop: If a writer is having problems with dialogue, plot, a sagging middle, etc., the answer is almost always that the characters are not driving the story. Compelling characters who behave true to who they are supposed to be can make a story so successful that readers are willing to overlook other flaws the story might have.

Format for all classes: All lessons and discussion are handled via email loop set up for that purpose.

Class 1: Perfect Pitch (for writers) $25
Dates: March 9, 2009 to March 13, 2009
Deadline to sign up: March 6, 2009
Class Description: Do you have an editor and/or agent appointment lined up?What are the key elements that will catch the attention of an agent or publisher? How can you best present yourself in the 10 or 15 minutes you may have to pitch your proposal? This class will cover those issues and more as well as a brief critique (if you choose) of YOUR pitch.
Class size limited.

Class 2: Creating Characters Who Write Their Own Story $40
Dates: March 23, 2009 to April 3, 2009
Deadline to sign up: March 20, 2009
Class Description: When your characters come alive, they can all but write the novel themselves. You know the moment—it's when they start to argue with you about what should happen next! But how do you create such characters? This class will take you through the steps of creating characters whose personalities and quirks will bring them alive and make them real both to your readers and to you.
Class size limited.

Class 3: Book in a Week Dates:
March 2, 2009 to April 3, 2009 (because of the short notice) $65 ($35 if you have taken it before)
April 13, 2009 to May 15, 2009 $75 ($40 if you have taken it before)
Deadlines to sign up: March 2, 2009 for the March 2 workshop and April 10, 2009 for the April 13 workshop
Class size limited.

Class Description: This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published. It's also designed to help you discover who YOU are as a writer. (More detailed description on my website.)

To sign up email me at aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class you wish to take in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal (and whether you want March or April if it's the Book in a Week class). Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before.

Pet Stains

2009-02-15T16:26:00.002-06:00

Thanks to everyone who privately emailed me suggestions about how to get out pet stains. The most unusual was to try shaving cream and hey, I was desperate enough to try pretty much everything. The shaving cream worked as well or better than any of the other products on one stain but didn't do much on another that I thought was the same kind of stain. I have no idea why.

I think at this point I'm going to be looking at steamcleaners to really get the stains out!

Meanwhile.....I hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day. I got to spend part of it at the Pflugerville library's Romance Reader event. It was nice for me to meet them and to be able to tell them about the Austin RWA chapter and the great writers we have right in the area!

Help!

2009-02-09T14:05:00.001-06:00

It's my turn to request help. I adore my dog Sophy. And she's settling in nicely—now. But we've gone through a few challenges and she still loves MUD. So...this time I'm asking for your help. What are your best tips for dealing with pet stains?

The Impact of Weather

2009-01-31T14:07:00.000-06:00

It's beautiful out today. Mild and sunny and the sort of day that drew me to Texas in the first place. I love that it's so beautiful out and I find myself noticing how much happier I feel than when the weather is overcast or cold and gloomy for extended periods of time. Which, of course, makes me think

It makes me think about how, in bad weather, if we can step back and cut other people—and ourselves—some slack, our lives are likely to be smoother and happier.

If we're writers, it reminds me that climate and geography help to shape cultures and individuals. It's one more tool we can use in our writing if we are consciously aware of the impact that weather has—on our characters and on our readers. Just by choosing the right weather, we can evoke the emotions we want to add impact to the ones we put on the page.

My Son and An Inauguration

2009-01-21T14:31:00.002-06:00

I'm just back from New Jersey where I helped my son move his things into his room at the group home where he now lives. (He has Down syndrome.)

And now we have a new president.

I find myself thinking that for my son, who doesn't really understand about new presidents, his emotions must still be similar to so many of us in this country. He is worried about the changes in his life and what they will ultimately mean. He is not happy about having to give up what is familiar and to have to follow rules at the group home. In the end, I know his life will be better for this change but for now it's a difficult time for him.

For me and for others in the United States there is also a sense of uncertainty—about changes and what we may have to give up or do that will perhaps be difficult. At the same time, we are able to see possibilities. We can understand what Barack Obama meant when he said—and I'm paraphrasing here—that we must not and need not give up our souls or our honor in order to create the lives we want to live. We are fortunate. We have the ability to imagine how things might be in a way that my son cannot.

One thing my son does do well is see into people's hearts regardless of their outward appearance. He does not care the color of someone's skin or what their religious or political beliefs might be. He looks at the person and judges them by how they behave. Would that we all had that gift.

I was born at a time when Barack Obama's election would have been unthinkable. I am proud that we now live in a time when it can. I am proud of the dignity with which George W. Bush left office and Barack Obama stepped into office. I am proud that our country seems to be united—at least today—in a way that it has not been for far too long.

I wish my son could comprehend the significance of the inauguration. I hope he can begin to focus more on what is good about his new home and the possibilities for growth and happiness that exist in this new setting. I hope that we all are able to focus on the possibilities ahead for ourselves and for our country. And if we are writers, I hope that we are finding ways to put that hope into words because history will want to know how it was, how people felt and what they believed and hoped when these changes took place.

What Are You Reading?

2009-01-14T12:34:00.000-06:00

This is the time of year I suspect many of us really like to curl up with a good book. It's usually cold outside and the days just seem to be meant for reading. At my Austin RWA chapter meeting last night some of us were talking about whether we read what we like to write or like to read stuff we don't write. Two generally read what they also like to write and two of us read broadly—including lots of stuff we either know we couldn't or wouldn't want to write.

My personal bias is to read widely—including books we think we probably wouldn't like if it's out of our usual reading range particularly if the books are of a different genre and/or are written by people with very different backgrounds from our own.

If we're writers, we may learn new tools to use in our own work and be startled by ideas or ways of doing things that hadn't occurred to us before. If we're not writers, we may still find new ideas, new ways of looking at the world that wouldn't have occurred to us otherwise. Either way, we win. Even if we end up hating the book, we have new information about what works for us and what doesn't.

So....what are you reading? What has surprised you in good ways?

Some of the kinds of things that surprised me recently and that worked: an assassin as a hero (I would have sworn I couldn't/wouldn't like such a book!), a lawyer with strong faith in God, a book about the Dalai Lama and his philosophy toward happiness, a story about an astral traveling nanny (by an unpublished writer and whose central character stayed with me for a long time after I read the story), and quite a few other books including several on how to train a dog. My life is richer because I've read these books and stories. And that's what books and stories do—they enrich our lives.

Happy reading everyone!

Next Class and New Year

2009-01-06T15:34:00.003-06:00

My Book in a Week class has been rescheduled to start January 26 and end February 27. The deadline to sign up is January 23. Cost? $60 for new students and $35 for students who have taken the Book in a Week class before. Contact me at aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com if you're interested. Everything is handled by email so you can read the lessons at 3 in the morning in your pajamas if you want! As always, the first three weeks will focus on brainstorming in a way that lets us take advantage of our non-linear creativity. The fourth week will be intensive writing week where you get to discover how and when and where and what you write best. The fifth week will be a wrap up with some information on evaluating the experience, revising the manuscript and sending it out to publishers. I often have complete newcomers as well as published authors in the class. Come join us and get a good head start for the year!

Meanwhile...I find myself savoring the new year. It helps that we tend to have sunny days and moderate temperatures here in Texas. (I still find it extraordinary that three of my four grandparents came from Finland and that I might have Laplander ancestry on my father's side. I am NOT a snow and cold kind of person!)

I'm enjoying taking the time to think about what I want in my life in this coming year. What do I want to write? Who do I want in my life on a more regular basis perhaps? Where would I like to travel? What workshops might I want to present and online classes teach?

There's a sense of joy in realizing I can choose how I want my life to play out—no matter what the external situation might be. There's power in knowing I can choose how I will respond to challenges. And there's a sense of peace in knowing I can make a difference with the classes I teach.

Sophy is settling in nicely—though she wasn't very happy with all the firecrackers going off here on New Year's Eve.

I hope that for all of you, the new year is starting well and that you are looking forward to the possibilities ahead. We writers have great imaginations! Of course, we seem to more often envision what could go wrong than what could go right but....once we do begin to imagine what could go right, wow! Here's hoping you're seeing at least a few wonderful possibilities for your life, too.

New Stories for a New Year

2008-12-31T14:03:00.001-06:00

First, I need to note that I'm postponing my Book in a Week class to later in the month. I need to go back east to see my son and can't manage the class at the same time. I'll be posting here when I know for certain when the class will actually start.

Now....about the new year.....

Human beings are storytellers. We tell ourselves stories about our own lives and the people around us all the time. Those stories can help or hinder us depending on how we tell them. In the worst case situation, we're telling ourselves stories that hurt us and never even realize they ARE stories! If we fall into the trap of believing they're truth, we are unlikely to change or rewrite those negative stories into something that will help empower us.

Why am I bringing this up now? I think New Year's Eve and New Year's Day is a good time to stop and ask ourselves what stories we're telling ourselves and ask ourselves which ones we might want to rewrite. If we do, we have far greater chance of making true changes in our lives than by making resolutions we may not believe we can fulfill anyway.

Example: Which seems more likely to work? To tell ourselves we have to stop eating chocolate because it's making us fat or to tell ourselves we're someone who doesn't need chocolate or to eat more than one piece at a time?

I know the power of expectations—and that's what's inherent in telling ourselves stories. If we expect someone to behave badly, studies show they will. If we expect someone to succeed, studies show they are far more likely to do so. What then if we apply those ideas to ourselves? If we're writers, we're used to creating stories, so why not create stories about ourselves that will empower us to achieve our goals?

I don't know about you, but I'm realizing that telling myself I'm stupid about something isn't very likely to make me succeed at whatever it is. On the other hand, I've got a much better shot at it if the story I'm telling myself is that I'm smart and successful and able to see possibilities and figure out ways to do things—even if they are different from how anyone else would do them.

I find myself thinking about all of this now because I will be seeing my son in his new environment, in the group home. I know that it's important to think carefully about what I will tell him about this big change in his life, the story I will help him create for himself. I look at the world, too, which seems in chaos and I know that I have the best chance of weathering the crises if I have a story that tells me that no matter what I will find a way to do so.

As I say often in my workshops: the brain works best when we are relaxed. It literally cannot function as well when we're scared. So...the optimal strategy is to find stories that help us move forward in our lives.

What are the stories you tell yourself that you might want to rewrite as we enter this new year?

Christmas Eve 2008

2008-12-24T14:18:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve is bittersweet for me. I love the sense of hope I see, the generosity of people, the joy on children's faces, even the look of bewilderment on my dog's face as she stares at the Christmas tree and tries to figure out why it's there.

I'll enjoy seeing my daughter tonight and having her sleep over. I'll talk with my son on the phone and wish he weren't so far away. I'll light a candle for my father who died on Christmas eve years ago. As I said, it's a bittersweet time for me.

We have choices. To focus on what's wrong in the world and what worries us or to count our blessings and find reasons for joy EVERY DAY. I'm putting in a plug for the latter because I truly believe it's what's best for us and for the world.

It is when we remember our past successes and celebrate any and all reasons for joy in our lives that we are most likely to think of solutions to our life challenges. It is when we hold onto that sense of self-worth and faith in ourselves that we are most likely to find ways to become even more the kind of people we want to be. It is when we allow ourselves to celebrate who we are that we are most likely to be able to open our hearts to others.

When we know what brings joy, we can do that which expands the amount of joy in the world—and make it a better place for everyone no matter what challenges exist.

Wishing everyone much joy and peace, good health and success now and throughout all of 2009!

April
.

Next Online Class

2008-12-16T12:44:00.003-06:00

Please note that there is a discounted fee if you have taken the class before and wish to take it again.

I realize a lot of people are focused on the holidays right now but January is coming up fairly quickly and I wanted to let people know that I'll be offering my Book in a Week class at the beginning of the year because I suspect that lots of people will be ready to jump back into writing after the holidays. (Or some of you may want to give—or ask for-- it as a gift.)

Online Class: BOOK IN A WEEK

Cost: $60 ($35 if you have taken this class before and are taking it again)
Dates: January 5, 2009 to February 6, 2009
Deadline to sign up: January 2, 2009
Format: All lessons and discussion are handled via email so you can take the class in your pajamas at 3 in the morning if you want!

I truly believe that when we are in tune with who we are as writers, the process becomes easier and we become better writers. This class is designed to help you discover what and when and where and how YOU write best. It is designed to take you back to those early days when you couldn't wait to write your book. It's designed to remind you of the joy and the power of playing “make believe” as a child—to let you sidestep any limits you may be setting on yourself and your ability to write.

This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorming all the way through sending material out to be published.

Weeks 1-3: Preparing to write the first draft of a book in one week
Creating compelling characters or how to write about real people in nonfiction
Planning plot elements or structure in a nonfiction book
Significance of names
Effective paragraph and sentence structure
Using imagery and sensory detail to add impact
Writing effective dialogue
Creating a productive writing environment
Enlisting the support of those around you
Mentally gearing yourself up to write faster (and better) than you thought you could

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (January 25 to January 31)
This is about discovering how writing fits into YOUR life. You can't do it wrong. You won't fail. No matter what happens you will discover more about yourself as a writer than you thought possible during that ONE WEEK of writing!

Week 5:
Evaluating the writing experience
Making revisions
Sending out material

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the class:

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with Book in a Week in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. Also, please let me know if you have taken the class before.

The Season

2008-12-08T10:44:00.001-06:00

As usual, I find myself way behind on so many things. I haven't begun writing out cards. My shopping is well, barely started. I did put up my artificial tree this weekend and now much of the challenge is persuading my dog Sophy that it is NOT for her to chew on—not the branches OR the ornaments!

Partly it's the weather. We stayed unusually warm until very recently. We still have some days that hit 70 degrees and I'm used to much colder temperatures in November! NOT that I'm complaining. I like the warmer weather. It just means that it doesn't always feel like the Christmas season as early as it would back in the northeast.

Partly it's the economic chaos. Like everyone else, I'm mindful of what I can afford and how I choose to spend on gifts. I always try to choose gifts that will be meaningful but this year it feels even more important not to waste money just to buy SOMETHING.

I find myself thinking about Hanukkah, too. For close to 30 years, it was part of my life. I loved the lighting of the candles and the concept of the miracle of the oil that lasted 8 days. I don't light a menorah now but when I see the candles in the store, I'm swept back to moments when that was part of this Season for me, too.

As a writer, this gives me a chance to look at the Season with a new perspective. How might characters in a novel act and react differently in a year like this? What would be emotionally compelling—and not just in obvious ways? How might a character create peace and calm in the midst of financial disorder? How might a character find new and meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas with her children when money is tight? How might friends in a story help each other out when no one has any money? How might a character find success when everyone says it's impossible?

So I have my tree up, I've begun to brainstorm what I might get my children for Christmas and perhaps by next week I'll be starting to send out my Christmas cards. Meanwhile, I'm taking moments to savor what I love about this time of year. I'm letting myself question, too, all the old assumptions about what HAS to be part of this Season.

How about you? Are you ahead of schedule? Behind? Right on time? Are you rethinking anything about what you do for this time of year?

Giving Thanks

2008-11-29T14:09:00.002-06:00

Like everyone else, this week has had me thinking about the blessings in my life. And especially now, with all the chaos in the world and the economy, I suspect it's especially important for us to remember those things aren't the sum total of our reality.

I'm grateful for my kids. I'm grateful my son is in a wonderful group home and can learn limits and social skills he hasn't before. I'm grateful my daughter is doing so well in graduate school and is such a marvelous young woman!

I'm grateful for my dog Sophy and the way she makes me laugh, even if she does like mud a little too much. (See her blog post about it here: Sophy's Dog Eye View of the World.

I'm grateful my ex and I are on good terms.

I'm grateful for my friends—whether here in Austin or all around the country.

I'm grateful for my fellow writers and the chance to offer my writing classes online. I'm grateful for the chance to share what I know and to learn from my fellow writers as well.

I'm grateful for my house.

I'm grateful for Austin and the rain we're getting now as well as the blue skies and sunshine and warmth we get most of the year. I'm grateful for all the creative people in Austin and everyone else as well—it's a terrific mix.

I'm grateful to have enough to eat and clothes to wear. (A friend's mother made the observation that we are rich if we have things to give away—whether money, food, clothes or household goods. A great way to look at life and so very true!)

I could go on and on. And some days I do. Realizing how much I have to be grateful for is a good antidote to fear or worry or jealousy.

Here's hoping each of you has your own very long list of things to be grateful for!

Revisions Workshop and Next Book in a Week

2008-11-22T13:29:00.003-06:00

As promised, here's the information about my next workshop. For those who have asked about the next Book in a Week workshop, that will start in early January. I have details up on my website April Kihlstrom and will post here later in December but this gives you a chance to mark your calendars. Note that because I've had a number of people ask to take my classes more than once, there's a discounted rate if you've taken the class before.

For now, the next workshop I'll be offering is Revisions the Easy Way (called Revisions the Practical Way last time around).

Cost: $30 ($20 if you have taken this class before and are taking it again)
Dates: December 1, 2008 to December 12, 2008
Format: All classes via email so you can read them and post responses any time of day.
Deadline to sign up: November 28, 2008

Class size will be limited so that students can ask questions, post homework responses (if they so choose), do brainstorming, etc.

Course description:
I believe there is a far easier AND MORE EFFECTIVE way to make revisions than to start with page one and go through to the end. This class will look at a layered approach to making changes with the knowledge that every change has a ripple effect AND there are questions one ought to ask oneself before one does anything.

Lessons are designed to take the author through the revision process in a way that minimizes the rewriting time. It is based on the concept that if one asks the right questions—in the right order—before one begins rewriting, the process is easier and faster and more effective.

To sign up for Revisions the Easy Way send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with the title of the class in the subject line and in the body of the email please let me know whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. (Note: Please let me know if you have taken the class before.)

Fires, Guest Blogging and Feeling Under the Weather

2008-11-16T15:51:00.003-06:00

My apologies if I'm not entirely coherent today. I've come down with a bad cold. But I did want to post about the fires in California and ask for your good thoughts for all the families and firefighters affected by them.

It's easy, sometimes, to tune out news about places distant from where we are. But it can suddenly hit home too. I just found out that my brother's home was destroyed by those California fires. He and his family are safe. But his home is gone. And so is the building where he teaches his classes at Westmont College.

He's not the only one. Too many people have lost their homes in this latest round of fires. Too many people have been injured or killed. It seems as if these kinds of disasters are growing more frequent. Or maybe it's that we've become more aware of them. Either way, a lot of people could use your good thoughts and prayers right about now.

On a much happier note, I'm blogging at the Wet Noodle Posse blog this week on Wednesday, November 19th. I hope you'll go check it out. I'll be talking a bit about Book in a Week and why I believe in it so much as a way to grow as writers.

Which reminds me....I should settle on dates for my next online classes. I'm leaning toward a 2 week class on revisions for the beginning of December and my next Book in a Week class to start the beginning of January when I figure lots of people will be ready to dive into writing again after the holidays. Look for more information in next week's blog.

Meanwhile, please keep everyone affected by the California fires in your thoughts and prayers.

Veggie Chili

2008-11-08T16:27:00.000-06:00

I make vegetarian chili a lot at this time of year. It's comforting and healthy and easy and uses up whatever veggies I have in the refrigerator. I use a crock pot and that makes it even easier because it simmers all day. I make it just for me and it usually lasts 3 or 4 meals—depending on how hungry I am, whether or not I add some rice, how many veggies I have on hand, etc. You may want something very different but here's how I do it:

can of beans or dried beans
can of tomato sauce or paste or diced tomatoes (depending on my mood and what I have in the cupboard)
diced zucchini
mushrooms
diced onions or pepper or whatever other veggies I have handy
chili powder to taste
enough water to create a good consistency
optional: rice (added an hour or so before I want to eat along with extra water so it stays the right consistency)

If I'm using canned beans, everything goes into the crock pot at once. If I'm starting with dried beans, I start them 2 or 3 hours earlier. With canned beans I can start it around noon. If I'm using dried beans I try to start it by 10am at the latest. I start it on high for about half an hour (to heat up the water) then turn it down to low for the rest of the time. (My crock pot only has two settings—high and low.)

I top the chili in my bowl with shredded cheese and sometimes make biscuits or bread sticks to go with it.

I suspect true chili aficionados would be horrified by my chili but...I like it. As I said before, it's easy, warms me up, is filling and healthy.

What are some of your healthy comfort foods at this time of year?

Hiding Our Treasures

2008-11-02T15:06:00.001-06:00

Despite all the cartoons, I've never had a dog that actually buried things. Until now. I was out for a long stretch today and when I came back gave my dog Sophy a rawhide treat. She ran outside and came back in a couple of minutes later. No treat. I looked outside. No treat. I asked her where it was. Obediently she took me to the spot where she had buried it and when I asked her to, she dug it up and brought it back inside. I reassured her that she didn't have to bury treats any more because there would always be treats for her. She settled down to happily chew it then.

I found myself wondering how many of us do the same thing—hoarding talent or ideas or money or...whatever out of fear there won't be any when we want or need it/them? How many of us are afraid we—and what we care about—won't be safe?

I think that it's this kind of fear that lies behind the deep divisions in this country as we go to the polls to vote. What I hope we remember—no matter who wins—is that we ALL want to be SAFE. We ALL want to know there will be ENOUGH when we need it. The louder the voices, the nastier the smears, you can be sure means the greater the fear. Because ultimately all conflict, deep down, is about some kind of fear.

If we're writers, we may hoard our ideas—or even our manuscripts—out of fear that someone will steal them. But if we don't take the risk of sending those manuscripts out then we can't get published at all. When we share challenges and ideas someone may think of possibilities that would enrich our writing in ways we would never think of ourselves.

It takes courage to face our fears and look beyond them to the possibilities. Just think what a difference it would make—in our lives, in our country, in the stories we might write or read—if we all did so.

Whatever your views, I hope you vote on Tuesday—or have already voted.

Fall

2008-10-25T11:03:00.001-05:00

Well, it's beginning to feel like Fall here—even if it is still much warmer than it would be places I've lived most of my life. Time to begin making soup, baking more, bundling up when I take Sophy for early morning walks. Well, okay, at least putting on a light jacket!

It's also the time of year I feel like curling up with good books—and working on my own. That's why the timing of NaNoWriMo is so great. For those of you who are writers and don't know, November is National Novel Writing Month. Here's the website for NaNoWriMo. It's a good way to really get yourself in the habit of writing every day—or at least most days—and perhaps writing faster than you thought you could. It's a way to do it and get lots of support from other writers.

We're obviously living in a time of change. Even for non-writers, keeping a journal or in some way writing down how we feel or think about what's happening can be a useful way of coping with the anxiety that times like this can produce.

Here's hoping all of you are enjoying Fall where you are and perhaps taking pen in hand or typing on the computer as we go into the days and changes ahead.

The Week that Got Away

2008-10-19T11:01:00.000-05:00

This is one of those weeks that got away from me. You know the kind I mean. Just when you're ready to unwind and relax you remember you have a meeting—and it's one you want to attend. Just as you sit down to write a blog post the phone rings and someone you care about needs help with something. The dog figures out how to pull down the drapes . Or your kid says, “Mom, I think I might have a concussion.”

Everything turns out okay but....the week gets away from you.

One of the blessings of a week like this is the reminder to double check what someone tells you—rather than getting upset before you check if it's true or maybe can be changed. It was a reminder that much of what we worry about turns out okay. Why put energy into worrying before we have to? And it was a reminder that sometimes it's better to laugh than get angry at the surprises life hands us. (The drapes went right back up with no damage.)

If you're a writer, how do your characters handle situations like these? What do they do or say that's both unique and universal? (Example: It's universal to fall in love. It's unique if the way the person shows that he has is to give the other person a dragon figurine because he knows that to her it represents the strength she wishes she had and which he knows she does.) How do different characters handle things differently? Who worries? Who refuses to worry? Who goes still and who gets active? Who goes for walks and who insists on staying by the phone and talking to friends?

One of the blessings of being a writer is realizing there are all sorts of possible answers and that there is rarely only one that's right. It can make us more understanding of others and help us realize that we can choose which one serves us—and those we love—best.

Here's hoping you're all having great weeks and they're not getting away from you!

A Plea for Civility

2008-10-10T15:20:00.000-05:00

Right now emotions are running high—as they always do right before major elections. We see ads running that are misleading at best and outright lies at worst. Fear drives people to take stands denouncing anyone who disagrees with that person's position. Today I'd like to make a plea.

Please listen with respect to someone who supports the person you oppose. Listen for the fear that lies behind that support. And then listen to your own arguments and hear the fear in your own voice. We all want what's best for this country. Where we disagree is in what might provide that solution—or who might provide that solution.

I don't believe anyone has a lock on wisdom. Our best shot of creating a happier, healthier and yes, safer country and world is to work together, all of us treating each other with respect as we do so.

I understand ambition and I cringe every time I see or hear someone abandon their principles in order to succeed. I admire those who are willing to acknowledge that someone with whom they disagree could be a good and decent person anyway.

It's hard to do that when we are afraid and yet paradoxically it's our best shot at solving whatever crisis is scaring us.

If you are a writer, how do your characters deal with disagreements? Do they listen with respect? Do they attack? What in their past experience has shaped how they deal with disagreement? What does it mean to them? What do or could your characters who disagree learn from each other?

Even if ultimately we or our characters must take a stand, our best shot of persuading others to stand with us is to begin by listen to and hearing and respecting the fear that shapes the other person's position.

Stepping off my soapbox now. But just imagine what kind of world this could be if we all began by treating each other with respect.

Next Online Writing Class

2008-09-30T13:42:00.004-05:00

I alway feel funny about listing my writing classes. And yet I know they make a difference. And I offer writing classes online because I really do want to make a difference. This one is timed to match up with National Novel Writing Month--even though it isn't just for people who write novels.

I know what it's like to feel self-doubt and over the years I've learned that every writer does. I offer my classes to share what I've learned works—and what doesn't—in hopes of making the writing process a little easier and better for all of us. In that spirit, I again offer my BOOK IN A WEEK online writing class timed to give students a jump start for NaNoWriMo this year.

Online Writing Class: BOOK IN A WEEK

Prepare for NaNoWriMo—even if you're writing nonfiction. This 5 week class begins October 13, ends November 14 and includes an intensive writing week from Nov. 1 to Nov. 9 that would be a great start to NaNoWriMo. Who knows? You might even write the entire first draft in that one intensive writing week!

Come discover how to write better and faster than you ever have before AND how to have fun doing so. This first three weeks of this class will help you prepare to write your book and the final week will help you look at your intensive writing week to see how, what, when, and where you write best.

Cost: $60
Dates: Oct. 13, 2008 to Nov. 14, 2008
Format: All lessons and discussion are handled via email so you can take the class in your pajamas at 3 in the morning if you want!

Bio: April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops on writing and has spoken at many conferences including: the Romance Writers of America national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance).

Testimonials from students who have taken the class:

“I have taken several online classes, none of them writing related. Still, none of them have been as well planned, documented and executed as BIAW.”

“Wow...Let me begin by saying Thank you Thank you Thank you! What an amazing process and generous amount of information given in a relatively short amount of time!”

“This course was certainly value for the money. A price can't be placed on the invaluable information and experience you imparted during this course.”

“I'm a better writer. I'm a faster writer. I'm a more confident writer.”

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal.

To sign up send an email to aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with Book in a Week in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal.

As always, feel free to pass this information on to anyone who might be interested.

Crises

2008-09-25T13:35:00.002-05:00

I was going to blog again about Sophy or perhaps about writing conflict in a novel. But this week it seems perhaps more pertinent to talk about crises and how we—and our characters—cope with them.

So long as we see ourselves hostage to what others do, we will feel trapped and scared. We also are not likely to take those steps that can help us create the lives we want to have.

I've posted before about finances and how to be financially stable. I've posted how to unclog a toilet if you can't get hold of a plumber and don't have or don't want to use a plunger. None of what I posted is guaranteed to always work or always protect you, but....these are steps we can take that have high odds of helping us achieve what we want to achieve—financially or domestically with the toilet.

In every area of our lives, we choose in every moment how we will handle challenges and crises. Will we wring our hands and worry? Perhaps even become news junkies? Or will we take a deep breath and look at what we CAN do? Every little step we take improves our odds and takes away some of the fear because it reminds us that we are not totally hostages to fate.

By the same token, if we are writing a novel, it's useful to ask ourselves how our characters handle challenges and crises. Do they try to control everything—including things over which they have no control? Do they take steps to resolve the issue? Do they turn it over to some higher power? Do they perhaps look for the opportunities that might be created by the crisis? Do you have two characters who have diametrically opposed strategies? That can create conflict—in life OR in a novel.

If you've read my blog for any length of time you can probably guess that I'm not panicking. I have taken the steps I can take to keep my financial house in order. And I choose to put my energy into getting on with my life rather than worrying about things over which I have no control anyway.

How do your characters (if you're a writer) handle crisis? How do you? How might your characters (if you're a writer) learn to handle things differently? Is there something that you, as a person, could do to improve the odds of your financial situation--or any other challenge you face?

Just as our characters can change and grow throughout the progress of a novel, so can we.

Lessons Learned From My Dog

2008-09-17T13:32:00.002-05:00

You're probably expecting something about taking time to play or nap or love unconditionally. And I could easily write a blog like that. But since this is about WRITING and life, I'd like to talk about a different aspect of what I'm learning from Sophy. (See her blog here: Sophy's Dog Eye View of the World)

One of the lessons I got this week from Sophy was to remember that there are regional differences in all sorts of aspects of life. What is a common issue one place may rarely occur in another—and vice versa. Factors such as habits of other dog owners, climate, etc. can affect things in ways one doesn't even know to watch out for if one is new to an area—OR TRYING TO WRITE ABOUT A PLACE ONE HAS NEVER LIVED.

I won't go into details because it's really gross, but let's just say I spent a morning I didn't want to at the vets because of a problem that never occurred with any other dog I've owned before because I've always had dogs in northern climates. Pests that die out over the winter (I presume) up north apparently don't here in this much warmer climate.

It was a reminder of how many things can be different that one never thinks about—unless one visits or moves to a very different part of the country than one has lived in before. Little things like what's blooming or what one wears at what time of year. Bigger things such as expectations for what's “proper” behavior in all sorts of situations. Or what's involved in home maintenance. (Up north we never had to water the foundations of our houses. Of course, I also never had a teenager apologize to ME when I accidentally bumped into the teenager!)

In life, this means realizing what we think of as the way everyone must think or feel could very well not be universal. It means realizing there's more than one way to see things and that by being open to that possibility our lives could become richer.

In writing, it explains the popularity of the “stranger in a strange land” theme. Differences make for great plot points, potential conflict, humorous incidents, even drama.

There is tremendous value and power in questioning our assumptions. After all, it is the assumptions we don't even know we have that are the ones that trip us up most often. And if we're writers, they are wonderful fodder for the stories we write!

Hurricanes and 9/11 and Other Storms of Life

2008-09-11T16:53:00.001-05:00

Here we 're waiting to see if Hurricane Ike will hit us dead on or turn aside. It seems the forecast changes practically every hour. And it brings back memories of the year my daughter was starting college. We lived on the east coast then and she was headed to the west coast. She was trying to pack, not knowing if her flight would even be able to leave in the morning as her dad and I frantically pumped water out of our repeatedly flooding carpeted family room thanks to the remnants of a hurricane that raged outside. Fortunately the hurricane blew through faster than expected and my daughter made her flight just fine.

A couple of years later, it was 9/11 that hit the morning my daughter and I were headed to the shore for a couple of days together before she flew back to college. We were in shock and worried about family in NYC and friends who might have been there. We walked the beach and talked about her options to get out to the west coast before classes started if the planes stayed grounded. We talked about life and what mattered and of the grief we felt over all those lost lives.

My daughter will come over for dinner tomorrow night and we may reminisce. If the storm continues to head our way I'll bring in all my potted plants and anything else that could be tossed around by high winds. I'm ready if we have a few days without power.

What I think of most as I think of these experiences is the different ways people I know—including me—handled these situations. I remember the good things that people did to help each other in difficult times. I celebrate those who found a way to focus on something besides themselves and their own fears.

Every crisis is a chance for each of us to rise above our fears. Each crisis is a chance for us to look at our lives and decide what matters most. May we always remember the lives lost on 9/11 and may we always celebrate the courage and concern for others that we also saw that day.

My Fishbowl Theory of Life

2008-09-03T15:33:00.001-05:00

Periodically I like to repeat my Fishbowl Theory of Life—because I think it's important. So many of us think so often we're the only ones who feel the way we do. But...

I have this theory that we are all standing on the outside of a fish bowl. We can see a couple of people to our left and a couple of people to our right, but we look inside and think we see all these people inside having fun, being the "real" writers or leaders or popular or self-assured people or....whatever our issue might be. And the reality is that EVERYONE is on the outside of the fish bowl and when we think we're looking inside we're really looking through it to the other side and seeing people who are looking back thinking we're the ones inside the fish bowl!

There are different levels of expertise in any group. And that's a good thing! We learn from each other. On any journey, some are farther along the path than others but....we all begin with just one step, no matter what it might be. As we go we find our way.

When I teach my writing classes, I smile every time I think of each of my students finding his or her voice. No matter what comes of what each person is writing, if he or she cares about it, it will change that person in big and little ways one doesn't expect. I tell writers: You will never regret time spent writing what you care about--whether or not it ever gets published.

Can you tell I believe in dreams--and in taking action to make those dreams real?

The next time you feel on the outside of anything in any way, remember, we're all on the outside of that huge fish bowl--we just don't realize the blasted thing is empty!

This Week

2008-08-27T16:57:00.001-05:00

It's been an interesting week. Sophy and I are still negotiating how we will coexist. I've discovered she can open gates and patio doors. She's discovered that when I'm at the computer I'm working and not likely to play. I've set up a blog for her and will be posting stories from her point of view at Sophy's Dog Eye View of the World.

I had my air conditioning quit working on Saturday and by the time it got resolved, it was 90 degrees in my house. But it got fixed and didn't cost me a fortune and I'm so grateful that's all it was.

I don't have much contact with my ex-husband's family. This week though they have been very much on my mind as someone I was once close to deals with the diagnosis of a debilitating illness. My heart goes out to all of them and to my daughter who wishes with all her heart there was something she could do.

Different friends are dealing with different challenges and we swap stories of how we've succeeded in the past—reminding each other that we are not hostages to fate but rather can choose how we will respond to life and the challenges that come with it.

Here's hoping each of you finds some joy every day and time to play and reasons to believe in yourselves.

What Happens

2008-08-20T15:44:00.002-05:00

In writing, as in real life, it isn't what happens that matters nearly so much as how a person—or character in a novel—acts and reacts because of a given event.

Faced with a crisis, one person will retreat, another advance as though waging war on the challenge. If someone else is in crisis, one person will approach with compassion and wanting to know how to help, another will withdraw afraid of having too much asked of him or her. In a crisis, one person will come up with a solution and insist it is the only one that can work. Another person will listen to all possibilities and be open to choosing one that is not his or her own.

Ironically, it is the person willing to listen who is likely to have the best ideas (because he or she listens to and learns from others) but odds are the idea chosen will be the one pushed by the most forceful personality who insists on only considering his or her own.

Each person's style is likely to have been shaped by the past as well as by innate personality.

In writing, it's important to look at WHY your characters do what they do and to stop and consider all sorts of possible actions and reactions for a given character. As you show those actions and reactions changing, you are showing the reader the character growth that is taking place.

In real life, there is power and wisdom in stepping back and asking oneself if one's actions and reactions are really serving one well—and to consider changing if they aren't.

PS Sophy and I are settling in nicely. I'm discovering how clever she is and she's discovering that there are limits to what's allowed. She's sweet and affectionate and I'm so glad I adopted her!

She's Here!!!

2008-08-13T09:39:00.002-05:00

Well, I have my new dog. I'm calling her Sophy—after The Grand Sophy by Georgette Heyer, of course.

She's a spaniel/setter mix—I think. Since she came from a shelter, there's no way to be sure. She was fostered for several months so she's in many ways already trained. Good thing since she's probably about a year old and weighs 45 pounds! (I'd thought she was probably around 30 until I saw the vet's paper.)

I'm going to see if I can insert a photo or two here....

She's a sweetie. She did bark once—when we saw a rabbit as we were out walking. And she definitely wanted to chase it but when I said “NO!” she happily continued walking with me.

She did wake me up at 4 am thinking maybe it was time to play—and I am sooooo NOT a morning person! But I got her back to sleep and it all worked out fine.

As you can tell, I'm enjoying having her here. I love dogs. I think there is so much to be gained by having one. Where else can you get unconditional love? Where else can you find someone always willing to play? And is there anything more soothing that petting a dog who loves you when you've had a long, hard day?

Okay, so I can think of a couple of answers for that last one but...you've got to admit it ranks pretty high up there on the list!

As for writing, well....I'm enjoying the new Book in a Week class I'm teaching and, as always, finding new ways to tweak my lessons for the class.

Now...off to the vet to pick up her heartworm medication (I was so excited to get her yesterday that I left my purse at home! I had her leash and a blanket for the back seat of the car—you know, the important stuff—but I forgot my purse! But that's okay because there are a couple of things I should probably pick up at the pet store, too.)

Can you tell I'm having fun?

Found My Dog

2008-08-03T18:37:00.001-05:00

Well, I've found my dog. Still need to have the adoption approved since I found her at a local shelter but...I found her. She's not at all what I thought I would fall in love with but she's a real sweetheart. Probably mixture of spaniel with something else slender.

Even though she comes from a shelter, she'd been fostered and has obviously had a fair amount of training. She has a sweet temperament, isn't a huge barker and not once did she try to pull me over when I had her on the leash.

So...now I go through the process to have my application approved. (I'm glad they're careful to try to make sure the place the right animal in the right home.) Once that's done, she'll be spayed, micro chipped, vaccinated and tested. All very good things.

Sometimes it's good to discover that things don't turn out the way you expect—but maybe even better.

Once she's home with me—assuming the application is approved—I'll see if I can figure out how to post pictures.

Dog Search Continues

2008-07-28T10:44:00.002-05:00

Yesterday my daughter and I visited a local shelter. The Town Lake Animal Center in Austin is huge and has lots and lots of animals. We even saw some chickens! I filled out the questionnaire and got approved to adopt a dog. $75 for a pet that has been given its shots and has already been spayed or neutered is a real bargain. They get 50 to 100 dogs a day so I had high hopes.

We looked. I saw dogs with lovely temperaments and knew they would make great pets—for someone else. I saw a couple I liked—and of course they already had the “adopted” sticker on their cages. Did put in a request to be called for a dog on the “other side” (where newly brought in animals are kept) in case he becomes adoptable and the person ahead of me chooses not to adopt. I won't know until I have a chance to interact with him if he's the right pet for me and I almost hope the person ahead of me on the list has fallen completely in love with him. Every animal deserves to be adopted by someone who will love them and bond to them deeply. That's how I've felt about the dogs in my life in the past.

So....I'll keep looking. Saw a Papillon the other day with a woman in a store and might look into one of those. We'll see.

I'd love to hear your experiences finding a pet or looking for one or having one.

NJ and Dogs

2008-07-22T10:18:00.001-05:00

I could tell you about my week in NJ. On the plus side, I got to spend time with my son who has Down syndrome and I visited an amazingly wonderful group home. On the down side? Driving a car on the freeway after midnight when a tire had been down to 12 pounds earlier in the day (that my ex forgot to warn me about until the next day). Toilets overflowing. Pipes spewing water all over the laundry room (and into the carpeted family room). And so on. I think I'd rather talk about dogs.

I'd like to have a dog. I'd love to have a collie but I'm not sure I can handle a dog that big any more. So maybe a sheltie? Of course, in Austin, both shelties and collies are hard to find. Well, with the heat we get and their long fur....need I say more?

So I'm at a bit of a loss. I'm not sure whether to look for a sheltie or consider another kind of dog. But if not a sheltie or collie, what breed? Generally I'm more drawn to dogs with long rather than shorter fur. Since I'd probably have the dog inside more than outside and take it for walks, smaller is probably better than bigger. A mellow temperament would be a bonus.

I'm not asking for much, am I? I have checked out dogs for adoption from shelters and rescue groups. Nothing clicked and I'm not about to adopt a pet lightly. I'd rather not get a dog than get one I'll regret.

So who knows? I may get a sheltie or I may not get a dog at all or I may find a mixed breed I love.

Anyway, I'd love to have suggestions on types of dogs—both warnings and recommendations!

next Book in a Week class

2008-07-18T10:50:00.004-05:00

I realize some of you have already taken this class. If so, please pass the information on to anyone who you think might be interested. If you're going to RWA National conference in San Francisco and you haven't taken this class yet, it might be a great way to harness the writing energy you have when you get back!

Book in a Week

This class will run 5 weeks from (August 11 to September 12)
Cost: $50Deadline to sign up: August 8, 2008Note: Class size will be limited to 35 students maximum

Class Description: Book in a Week

I truly believe that when we are in tune with who we are as writers, the process becomes easier and we become better writers. This class is designed to help you discover what and when and where and how YOU write best. It is designed to take you back to those early days when you couldn't wait to write your book. It's designed to remind you of the joy and the power of playing “make believe” as a child—to let you sidestep any limits you may be setting on yourself and your ability to write.This class will take you through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published.

Weeks 1-3:
Preparing to write the first draft of a book in one week
Creating compelling characters or how to write about real people in nonfiction
Planning plot elements or structure in a nonfiction book
Choosing the right character name
Effective paragraph and sentence structure
Using imagery and sensory detail to add impact
Writing effective dialogueCreating a productive writing environment
Enlisting the support of those around you
Mentally gearing yourself up to write faster (and better) than you thought you could

Week 4:
Intensive Writing Week (August 30 to September 7)
(This is about discovering how writing fits into YOUR life. You can't do it wrong. You won't fail. No matter what happens you will discover more about yourself as a writer than you thought possible during that ONE WEEK of writing!)

Week 5: Evaluating the writing experience itselfMaking revisionsSending out material

The class will be run by having members sign onto an email loop and lessons will arrive via that loop. Lessons will also be posted in the file section of the email loop so that students can download any missed lessons directly. There will be opportunity for discussion on the loop.

Bio:
April Kihlstrom is an award winning author of 31 published romance novels. She believes Book in a Week is a way to recapture the joy of writing and write faster and more effectively at the same time. Always a slow writer, April was lured into attempting Book In A Week by a group of writers on Genie. Much to her surprise, she discovered it was a technique that worked well for her and she really could write the first draft of a book in a week! Since she began using the book in a week method, Romantic Times has called her a “rising star” and a “diamond of the first water”.

April offers coaching to fellow writers as well as classes and workshops in writing to both romance and non-romance writers and has spoken at many conferences including: the RWA national conference (romance) and the East of Eden conference (non-romance) .

Payment for the class may be made by check or by Paypal. To sign up send an email to mailto:aprilkihlstrom@yahoo.com with Book in a Week in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal.

Finances

2008-07-07T11:23:00.002-05:00

I have several friends right now dealing with financial crises. They're not alone. Lots of people are. I thought I would post a few things that might be useful when it comes to finances. I'm not an expert. These are strictly lessons I've learned through reading or from experience:

1) 0 interest transfers to new credit cards come with a huge catch. If you charge anything on that card, you pay interest and NONE OF YOUR PAYMENTS go to pay off the interest bearing charges until the zero interest charges are completely paid off.

2) If you are in trouble with your mortgage, talk to your bank but go in with a plan you can show them of how you believe you will be able to pay in the future if they give you a temporary abeyance.

3) If you can't afford to pay cash, you can't afford it. That doesn't mean you can't charge something, only that you need to know you would be able to pay cash if you had to. Exceptions? A house. College loans (within reason). Maybe a car. Unexpected medical bills.

4) Calculate the true cost of what you buy. Everything you buy with credit costs a lot more than anything for which you pay cash—unless the credit card bill is paid in full each month. So when you look at the price of something, tack on the amount of interest you will pay over its lifetime to decide if you can afford it—or really want to spend that much.

5) Financial institutions are out to make money. They will tack on fees and interest any way they can. If a credit card or loan offer looks too good to be true—there's a catch, often a huge one.

6))You don't have good credit unless your credit score is over 750. Otherwise you're going to be charged higher interest on everything.

7) You can sometimes negotiate interest rates on credit cards. Know what interest rate you pay and what the best interest rate is that's currently being offered.

8) There are lots of scammers out there offering to help “fix” your credit or help you with your home that's going into “foreclosure”. You're much better off, in almost all cases, dealing directly with creditors yourself.

9) Don't cancel credit cards. Get the balance down to zero, cut them up if that will help, but don't actually cancel the account (unless there's a fee for having the card). The reason is that the more credit you have available THAT YOU ARE NOT USING, the higher your credit score. The longer you have had a credit card, the better in terms of your credit score.

10) With credit cards look at the true cost of having them—yearly fee (if any, preferably none), interest rates, rules about when an d how they can raise interest rates, late fees and penalties (if that applies to you), etc.

11) Know that with debit cards, businesses can put “holds” on your account for more than the cost of your purchase! This can cause you to overdraw your account even though technically your purchases are within the amount you have in the bank.

12) Get to know which things are luxuries for you and which are true necessities. Separate emotion from your spending. Be realistic about what you can afford.

None of these things are new. Just wanted to share them in hopes that they might help a few people out there.

Who Are You?

2008-06-30T15:27:00.001-05:00

In life, we often wear masks. As a speaker I heard this weekend said, there's Who we are, Who we THINK we are, Who we pretend to be, and Who others think we are.

In novels, this is also true for the characters we create. And often it is the differences in those 4 images that generates plot. If you're a writer and you're stuck planning out a story, a useful exercise might be to write down for each major character the answer to those four categories.

By the same token, in real life, it can be useful to look at those four categories about ourselves. Looking at the discrepancies might give us insight into what might be causing problems and how maybe, just maybe, we can address the issues and resolve some of them. It's not for the faint of heart, of course, but the results can be very powerful.

Online Public Speaking Class

2008-06-22T14:29:00.004-05:00

If you've taken any of my online classes or ever heard me speak, then you know that my goal is to always make material easy, intuitive and fun. I'm about to offer a class on public speaking for writers (though anyone might find it useful). Lessons will be short, easy to follow, and give you real tools to be effective as a speaker and maybe even have fun doing so. I'll talk about pitching to an editor/agent, giving workshops or other presentations, handling interviews with print reporters as well as on radio and television.

Here's the information. The class is being offered through the Outreach chapter of RWA so you'll need to use the link to their website if you are interested in signing up!

TITLE: Public Speaking for Writers
DATE: July 7 – July 18, 2008
INSTRUCTOR: April Kihlstrom
LEVEL: Beginner to Advanced
COST: $10 Outreach Member/Others $20
Deadline to receive application and payment: July 5, 2008

Course Description:
Does public speaking make your stomach clench and your skin go cold? Do you panic at the thought? This 2 week online course will show you simple techniques to make anyone a more relaxed and effective speaker.

Topics will include handling interviews, offering pitches at conferences and presenting workshops. Everything from creating content for an effective presentation to how to dress to handling those pesky physiological responses will be covered.

By the end of this class, you'll be able to enjoy getting up in front of a crowd—or at least know you'll be okay.

Bio:
April Kihlstrom is the author of 31 published romance novels. She has achieved the rank of ATM Bronze in Toastmasters, won speaking contests, taught public speaking in California, been interviewed on television and presented highly acclaimed workshops at both national and regional conferences.

To sign up, please go to Outreach International Online Campus. Click on current classes then look at July to find mine.

I hope you will consider signing up for this course--especially if public speaking in any way intimidates you. It doesn't have to! As I said above, my goal will be to make this fun, easy and intuitive.

Father's Day

2008-06-15T13:59:00.005-05:00

Today, of course, I find myself thinking about fathers and I came up with a list of some of the qualities of a good father (or mother, for that matter...)--whether in fiction or in real life:

1)Sees and nurtures the best in the child—and helps the child build on those strengths.

2)Encourages the child to believe in him or herself.

3)Loves deeply and gives of himself AND sets good limits on the child's behavior.

4)Helps out the child whenever it's a good idea AND knows when to step back and allow the child to discover what he or she can do on his/her own.

5)Admits mistakes and knows how to apologize.

6)Cheers on a child's success AND knows that surviving failure can be just as important and sometimes more so and helps the child know that failure is NOT the end of the world but only a beginning to the next steps forward.

7)Teaches the child financial responsibility, how to handle credit and the value of deferred gratification.

8)Reads and reads to his child and encourages a love of learning—whether book learning or life skills.

9)Encourages a child to be true to him or herself AND to think about others as well.

10)Sets an example of moderation in all things.

11)Is willing to be silly and play like a child.

12)Is willing to be a grownup and make the hard decisions when that's what's called for.

13)Cares enough to set limits and hold to them.

14)Shows the child how to be as safe as possible in a sometimes uncertain world AND encourages that child to LIVE, really LIVE even if that sometimes entails risks.

15)Understands that the harm a parent does goes far deeper than any harm anyone else can do and the good goes deeper as well--and he chooses to do the good.

I have known some wonderful men in my life. I am profoundly grateful to those men who helped me feel safe or helped me to grow to become the person I am now. Some of those men have done both. Some have been friends or married to friends and it was/is a joy to watch how loving some relationships can be.

Today I honor all those men who have been truly loving fathers—or tried their best to be.

Sewing and Life

2008-06-09T10:57:00.001-05:00

I'm probably late posting again. That's because I've been sewing. My daughter is going to a friend's wedding and I've been making a dress for her to take with her. She is so beautiful these days and the dress looks so lovely on her. And...it's finally done.

As I was sewing, I found myself thinking that just as with writing, asking the right questions beforehand can save one a lot of grief when sewing. Questions like:

What will she wear this for?
What will the climate be?
What is her personal style?
What colors look best on her?
What fabric drapes well for the kind of dress I want to make for her?
What's the optimal strategy for THIS pattern with THIS material?
And when the unexpected happened—as it always does, whether in sewing or writing or life—what's the optimal way to address THIS challenge?

The upshot is that my daughter now has a dress she says is the nicest thing she's ever owned. She's thrilled, she looks great in it, it should be perfect for the climate and situation.

You'll notice that most of the questions are about what was right for HER. And that's the key. We're all different, our situations, emotional states, etc. are unique to who we are. If we start with what's right for us and go from there, we have the best chance of figuring out something that will work effectively in any situation—sewing, writing or life. (Note: This doesn't mean being utterly selfish! If relationships are important to us, then that goes into the equation, too..... And if we begin with knowing ourselves and what's right for us, then we're more likely to find ways we can stretch in new directions and be able to help others, too.)

Memorial Day 2008

2008-05-26T13:31:00.002-05:00

I've never had to go to war (though some might argue my childhood WAS a war zone, it's still not the same thing). I haven't lost a family member to war either. I've been lucky that way.

I think too often we've found ourselves in wars that should never have happened. But that doesn't take away from the courage of those who have been sent to fight in them. Today I want to take a moment to salute those who have gone to war—both those who died and those who came back changed because of what they saw and did and what happened to them.

My generation was the last to face the draft. It's hard for me to imagine the courage it took to go to war when there was a draft and the courage to choose to go when one doesn't have to go—as young men and women are doing every day now.

Today I want to honor those who have had the courage to be in the military and do what they can to keep us all safe. And to pray that soon this world finds a way to exist in peace so that no more men and women--of any nation--have to go to war. That we find a way to resolve disputes without fighting.

Time to Think

2008-05-24T11:20:00.002-05:00

I know I'm a week late posting my blog. Sometimes I need a little extra time to think. I've been doing that the past couple of weeks—mulling over life, this writing business I'm part of, and the world in general. I don't want to waste your time with words that aren't worth reading.

My son may be going into housing. He lives with my ex-husband and has Down syndrome and is 31. It will be a momentous change for him, for my ex and in some ways for me. I hope that it will lead him to new levels of maturity. I worry he won't be able to adapt or they won't be able to handle him. I think about the extended changes this may create in all our lives. Please keep him in your prayers.

A friend will be undergoing surgery again in June. Her 8th? 9Th? since she was diagnosed with breast cancer close to two years ago. She has no markers for the cancer any more but her body has had a hard time recovering from each surgery. Please keep her in your prayers.

I've finished my most recent online class and will soon be teaching one on public speaking (especially for writers) through the Outreach Chapter of RWA (details to be posted soon). Debora Dale recently had a blog interview with me about Book in a Week at—if anyone is curious what that's like, read it here: How Writers Write - An interview with April Kihlstrom . At any rate, I've been mulling over what other classes I might offer and on what kind of schedule. If you've got a class you'd like to see, please let me know!

My daughter just took her qualifying exams in graduate school. She's brilliant and wonderful and worries about not only succeeding but also making a difference in this world. She will—I have no doubt of that. I also know she needs to know I love and believe in her. And that got me thinking how much we all need to hear that someone loves and believes in us—no matter what. How often do we think to say it to those closest to us? How often do we hear it when we need to most? What difference might it make in our relationships if we heard and said it more?

I've lost my battle to save my zucchini plant. The birds tore it to bits before I realized what was happening. I'm still hoping that at least one of my two tomato plants will produce fruit. And I'm still experimenting and thinking about ways to deal with those pesky fire ants.

So...it's been a week or two of reflection for me. Hope all is well with all of you!

The Power of Storytelling

2008-05-09T14:24:00.001-05:00

I'm finishing up teaching my Revisions class online and I find myself thinking again about the profound power of storytelling. It's how human beings have always tried to make sense of the world and the people around them. Stories carry power. Some are true, some are not. It's not always clear to me which matter more.

It's one thing to recite statistics about, say, cancer. It's another to hear the story about the woman who lost her sister to cancer or how the children coped with the loss of their mother. It's one thing to see statistics concerning the massacre in Rwanda and another to hear the personal story of a woman who survived. It's one thing to be told we can be who we want to be and another to read about a woman like us who is true to herself and not only finds someone who accepts her but who loves her BECAUSE she is who she is.

Stories have power. And we writers get to create them. And in our stories, we can make things come out right in the end. Or, wrong in the end, if we want to provide a powerful warning about some danger.

Days like this, I can't imagine anything I'd rather be than a writer.

That Time of Year

2008-04-30T17:02:00.001-05:00

Well, it's that time of year. Planting tomato and zucchini plants, stress for kids in college, HOA meetings.

My daughter and I had lunch at a wonderful spot in Austin this Saturday—the Eastside Cafe. Wonderful food and they have a gorgeous garden where they grow produce. Plus plants for sale. One zucchini plant and one tomato plant have gone into the ground in my back yard. Mind you, I had to get some fresh dirt first. What I have isn't the best in the world.

My daughter and I swapped grad school stories. Discovered there were things I'd never told her before. And I found myself thinking how much things have changed.

My HOA had its annual meeting this week, too. We were reminded that we're going to be annexed soon. Don't get me wrong—it's a lovely town. I'm just not so thrilled knowing how much my property taxes are going to go up as a result of our annexation! Lots of intense emotions, too, about choices the HOA will have to make about what to turn over to the city and what to keep. I found myself thinking I could see both sides and honestly didn't know which the better choice would be. Eventually I slipped out and walked back home, thinking how nice it was that I COULD walk home from where the HOA was meeting.

Mind you, this time of year also brings the annual fight against fire ants and I've had to mow my lawn quite a few times already but....still, it's a nice time of year.

Oh, and if you're curious to know more about my online Book in a Week class, Debora Dale has posted an interview with me on her blog.

Journeys

2008-04-24T17:13:00.000-05:00

Every year at this time, I think of my cross country journey in 2003. It ultimately led to me settling here in the Austin area. I think with fondness of that adventure. (And I thought gas prices were high then!) It was, as one friend said at the time, a journey in emotional as well as physical miles.

Despite the concerns of some friends, I was perfectly safe going on my own. I learned a lot about myself. I learned it was okay to take wrong turns—sometimes that led to the most interesting experiences and it would turn out all right in the end any way. I learned that I could fit in anywhere. I learned that I liked people everywhere I went. I learned to let go of a lot of assumptions I had about myself and life. I learned that change was what life was all about.

Because of what I learned on that journey, I try, every year, to go new places and do new things. None of it is as grand as that cross country journey, but it doesn't have to be. Each new experience helps me grow. Each time I step outside my comfort zone, my comfort zone expands. And that's A GOOD THING.

What ways do you step outside your comfort zone? What are some of the experiences that are most vivid in your memory?

How Do You Choose?

2008-04-16T13:58:00.002-05:00

Who are you as a person? What are your priorities? How do you make choices? What are your fears? What are your hopes and dreams?

It's useful to ask ourselves those questions. Once we know, we can decide whether those answers are working for us or whether we want to rewrite them—and thereby improve our lives.

If we're writers, it's even more useful to ask ourselves these kinds of questions. If we pay attention to our own emotions and emotional responses to situations and people, then we have material for our writing, too.

Example: What is it that has allowed you at times to rise above your fears and do what's right even if you were scared or it wasn't what you wanted to do? Knowing the answer gives you a starting point for how a character in your story might grow or rise above his or her fears. If you write nonfiction, then knowing your own emotional high and low points and what works for you gives you a starting point for realizing what will matter to readers.

EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT A WRITER, it is useful to ask this question! All of us find ourselves at times in situations where, if we could change so that we rose above our fears or past patterns of behavior, it would get us out of a crisis or make life easier in some way. If we know what lets us rise above our fears and past patterns, then we can consciously choose to make sure that whatever worked before is present NOW as we set about making changes.

Isn't it great to know that we CAN rewrite our lives? Just because we've always had a fear of heights or had trouble managing money or told ourselves we couldn't do X, Y or Z doesn't mean we have to keep being that way!

And if we are writers, just think of the fodder for setting up turning points for our characters or in nonfiction recognizing what our readers' concerns (and possibly objections) will be.

So what questions can you ask yourself this week? What changes could you make in your life if you did?

Best,
April

PS I'm setting up an online class on REVISIONS THE PRACTICAL WAY. (April 25 to May 9, $25). Full details are on my website April Kihlstrom.

The Unexpected

2008-04-10T16:17:00.000-05:00

It’s easy to fall into patterns of thinking we know people by what we see. If we do so, however, we miss 9/10ths of what might be there.

When you pass the overweight woman in the store, do you stop to realize she might have been an aerobics instructor?

When you see the college professor, do you picture him hiking in the woods or playing a guitar?

When you see the harried mother in the airport, does it occur to you that she might be a high powered attorney?

When you see the young man with Down syndrome does it occur to you that he might play the piano?

If you are a writer creating characters, do you think to give them the unexpected talent or background or hobby?

Our lives will be richer if we look beyond the surface to see what we might not usually stop to notice or ask about or wonder. Our lives are richer when we truly look at people, look beyond our expectations and see the person who might defy every one of them. And the stories we write will be infinitely more interesting if we add dimensions to our characters that go beyond the surface to make each one unique.

Playing When We Write

2008-03-31T15:37:00.001-05:00

How often do you play when you’re writing? How often do you let yourself remember the sheer joy of playing make believe as a child—and then extend it to your writing?

Last week I suggested playing “what if” with our lives. If you’re a writer, you know it’s an invaluable tool when planning a book. How often, though, do we put limits on how far we will push “what if”--especially if someone has reacted negatively and said: You can’t do that in a _________ book?

We need to be aware, of course, of reader expectations. And it’s useful—if we can—to fit what we’re writing into what editors are looking for. At the same time, some of the most memorable books have been those that broke the rules.

So the question becomes: How do we balance what expectations are with the vision we have for our own work?

My personal bias is to let there be no limits IN THE FIRST DRAFT of our project. Let our imaginations have full rein and see where the story goes. Then we can step back and look at whether or not what we have will work and what changes we might want and need to make.

I know there are some brilliant authors out there whose first draft is essentially ready to go to an editor. For most of us though, we’re going to be making revisions anyway. Why not see where our imagination takes us? If you are one of those writers who writes an essentially single draft book, then at least in the planning stage, before you start to write, let your imagination soar. You might think of things that will enrich your story immensely.

The key in taking such risks, I believe, is understanding the TRUE reader expectations—and finding a way to meet them. This isn’t necessarily just the stated conventions of the genre. It’s also about the EMOTIONAL payoff the reader wants to get from the book.

The other key is knowing what matters most to YOU about what you’re writing. Perhaps tweaking how you use certain elements will allow your story to fit the market a little better.

There are risks to writing outside the box but how will we discover the possible rewards if we don’t try?

What If....?

2008-03-24T11:27:00.002-05:00

This time of year is always a reminder to me that rebirthing ourselves over and over again is a natural and powerful step to take all through our lives. By that I mean stopping to think about where we are, how we got here, and whether changing any of our assumptions about our lives and ourselves—and our writing—might be worthwhile.

We make assumptions every day about how things are and who we are—as individuals and as writers. Often those assumptions are things we were taught by our families or society and often we outgrow them or discover they were never true in the first place—IF we stop to challenge them.

It’s so easy to go through life never questioning our assumptions but we do so at a very high price—cutting ourselves off from wonderful possibilities we might otherwise have. Some of the most wonderful writers out there didn’t listen to conventional wisdom—and we are all the richer because they didn’t. Some of our greatest inventions came from people who didn’t listen when they were told it couldn’t be done.

When we were children, we knew how to play make believe and ask: What if? What if we did that with our lives now? What if we asked ourselves: Could we be wrong about the person we think has insulted us? What if they were saying thinking something entirely different than what we think we heard?

What if we could do that thing we were told we couldn’t do when we were children? What if we aren’t tone deaf or incapable of doing math or shouldn’t even think about picking up a hammer or wrench?

What if we can find joy even on the most difficult of days? What if it’s okay to have fun as we move forward in our lives and take on new challenges? What if we can get our finances under control? What if....?

What if we stop and ask ourselves: What assumptions do I want to challenge TODAY? What new possibilities do I want to bring into my life NOW--even if I didn't know I could have them before? How can I expand my expectations for what’s possible for me—as a person AND as a writer?

How about you? What ways could you enrich your life AND your writing by asking: What if...?

Why Do We Write What We Write?

2008-03-16T15:24:00.000-05:00

If you’re a writer, do you know why you write what you write?

I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately. Sometimes I know the answer. Sometimes I have characters who demand that I tell their story. Sometimes it’s an idea that intrigues me. Sometimes I haven’t got a clue; I just know that I have to write something.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that whether or not I consciously know where a story comes from, it will always in some way be connected to something I’m sorting through in my own life. It might be the theme of faith and honor and courage or it might be watching someone I love struggle with a difficult challenge and hurting for them. It might be how to balance self and responsibility to others or it might be the power we have within us to overcome any challenge and change our lives—if we believe we can.

I know that my experiences affect what I write. I also know—as Barbara Samuel said so eloquently in a speech a few years ago—that what I write impacts me as well.

I guess it keeps going back to that saying: It’s easy to write. Just open a vein and bleed all over the page.

Except that sometimes it’s laughing all over the page or simply embracing that connection that in our best moments we as writers have—heart to heart with those who read our words.

At least that’s how I see the answer to the question of why I write what I write. How about you? Why do you write what you write?

Next Class

2008-03-07T14:45:00.002-06:00

I've been putting off announcing the next classes because I was trying to decide on timing.--what with Spring Breaks and Easter happening in March and Passover in April. What I finally decided is that I would offer the classes anyway and hope for the best. I promised a number of people that I would offer the Book in a Week class again in March so here it is...

The lessons will be designed in such a way that they can be done at your own pace but in the order they are sent out. If you've ever heard me speak then you know that I believe in making the writing process as easy and intuitive as possible. That's what this course is designed to do.

Book in a Week will run 5 weeks from (March 17 to April 18) (There will be no lessons the weekend of Good Friday/Easter.)
Cost $40 (this time only--the price may go up in the future)
Deadline to sign up: March 14

To sign up send an email to April with Book in a Week in the header and in the body of the email please put: your name, the class you wish to take and whether you prefer to pay by check or Paypal. (You can either use the send money option in Paypal or ask me to send you an invoice.)

Note: Class size will be limited to 35 students maximum

The class will be run by having members sign onto an email loop and lessons will arrive via that loop. Lesons will also be posted in the file section of the email loop so that students can download any missed lessons directly. There will be opportunity for discussion on the loop.

Class Description: Book in a Week

In this class, writers will be taken through every step of the writing process—from beginning to brainstorm all the way through sending material out to be published.

Weeks 1-3: Preparing to write the first draft of a book in one week
Creating compelling characters or how to write about real people in nonfiction
Planning plot elements or structure in a nonfiction book
Significance of names
Effective paragraph and sentence structure
Using imagery and sensory detail to add impact
Writing effective dialogue
Creating a productive writing environment
Enlisting the support of those around you
Mentally gearing yourself up to write faster (and better) than you thought you could

Week 4: Intensive Writing Week (April 6 to April 12)

Week 5: Evaluating the writing experience itself
Making revisions
Sending out material

I look forward to having some of you take the class!

Happy Writing everyone!

PS I don't expect to always post here when I'm offering a class. You'll notice a button at the side to sign up for an email loop that is set up to let people know when I have a class being offered.

Life With All Its Ups and Downs

2008-02-24T17:05:00.003-06:00

It’s been an eventful week. On the downside, a friend’s house burned down and she lost her two dogs in the fire. I’m not mentioning names because I don’t know whether she wants it made public yet or not.

On the plus side, Irene Watson of readerviews gave a presentation at the Writers League of Texas this week. She was very down to earth and answered every question the audience had. I haven’t used her site or used any of her services and suspect they may be more useful to the self-published or unpublished author but it was nice to see someone talk bluntly about some of the challenges for new writers.

And a truly bright spot this week was a performance by Joe Hartman in Overwhelming Underdogs at the Arts on Real Theater here in Austin. (city theatre) I went because he’s the son of a friend and found myself laughing through the whole performance.

What Is True Love?

2008-02-15T14:02:00.001-06:00

It's Valentines Day this week so of course I have to write a blog post about love.

As a romance writer, I write about love all the time. But what is true love?

Whenever I ask myself that question, I think of a poem by Roy Croft. To paraphrase, it begins something like this:

I love you not only for who you are, but for who I am when I am with you.

That seems to me a very powerful statement and an excellent question to ask about any relationship we (or our characters!) are in. Do we like how we act and react when we are with this person (or group)? Do we like how they behave?

If we can’t answer yes to both questions then maybe we need to look at whether this is a relationship we want (or our characters want) to be in—as it is now. It may be possible for the relationship to change or for us to grow in some way so that we can answer yes to those questions. And that’s the goal—to be able to be better and happier and healthier together than we each are alone. If we cannot be together without damaging one another, then the best and most honorable thing to do might well be to end the relationship.

It seems to me that with true love, we bring out the best in each other and lovingly encourage each other to be happy and achieve our dreams and be the best people we can be.

If we write romance novels, it’s especially important to ask in what ways our hero and heroine will help each other grow and become happier and healthier people. It’s important to know how we’re going to show the reader that this relationship will allow the hero and heroine to become the best they can be. That’s when our readers will cheer for the hero and heroine to be together and truly be able to believe they will live happily ever after. Not that things will always be perfect or go smoothly, but that the hero and heroine bring out the best in each other and the reader can believe that ultimately they always will.

Here’s wishing all of you true love in your own lives!

Online Writing Classes

2008-02-08T10:19:00.000-06:00

I’ve been giving Book in a Week classes in person for a long time and I know they make a difference. I was teaching a modified version on line through an educational website for a while but I’m just now wrapping up a 5 week version online. The response has been so positive that I’ve decided to offer online classes on a regular basis—details still to be worked out.

In the meantime, I’ve set up a notification only email loop so that people who might be interested in taking online classes from me can sign up to get notices about such classes. I’ve got a sign up button on my website and one on this blog—right below my picture here. You won't get much email and I won't ever share that information with anyone else.

I love teaching this class. I love empowering people with ways to find their own voices. I love knowing I make a difference.

As I said, details are still to be worked out. I know I’ll be offering Book in a Week again as a 5 week class and I have requests for an online class on revisions. Please post if there’s a class you’d like to see me offer—perhaps an area of writing that’s a challenge for you. (I’m sure I can think of classes but I’d really like to offer classes that I know people want to have.)

Words have power. Writing gives us a voice. Even if we only write for ourselves, putting into words what matters to us can our lives in ways we don't expect.

Here I am—hoping to empower the world.

I Love to Read

2008-02-01T16:56:00.000-06:00

I’m currently reading contest entries for the RITA contest sponsored by Romance Writers of America. These are published novels and I’m struck by how much I love being drawn into a story. I love finding characters I want to spend time with. I love finding characters I cheer for as they grow over the course of the story and find true love.

I love to be surprised. I love when an author finds a way to handle a situation that I would not have thought of—so long as it’s consistent with how someone might really act or react.

I love having a story tug at my emotions. I love even more when the story causes me to explore my own ideas and feelings and challenge assumptions I’ve held in the past.

I love books that make me think, that expose me to situations or places or people I might otherwise never know.

In many ways, it’s easier for me to read a book than to watch a movie. I think it’s because I get to decide how the people look and sound. I get to fill in all sorts of details in my mind instead of a director doing so—possibly in ways I dislike. I get to put the book down and think about what I’ve read and then pick it up again and go on with the story.

Maybe that’s why I love to teach and coach other writers. I love the idea that maybe one day one of my students will write one of those stories that tug at my heart and make me think and enrich my life.

Gee, can you tell I love to read?