Journal
Browse here for posts related to all aspects of my writing life including
events, news, travel, research, mythology, and musings.
Owen Laukkanen and the SiWC
Owen Laukkanen. I was one of the lucky writers who managed to sneak into a "blue pencil" session with Owen because had a cancellation, and we had a brilliant conversation and a few laughs. But, Owen also told me what worked and where I could prolong the tension to...
Why We Believe in Magic: Philip Pullman
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2018/sep/01/the-limits-of-reason-philip-pullman-on-why-we-believe-in-magic?CMP=share_btn_twIf there is one thing I do believe in, it is the power of magic and imagination. Here, Philip Pullman, author of the "His Dark Materials" series, offers an essay on magic vs reason and the power of the imagination. The Limits of Reason: Why we Believe in Magic
All Aboard the Uchuck III
As I’ve said before the best research is hands-on. That way, you can indulge your senses. Last Saturday, we enjoyed a day cruise from Gold River (on Vancouver Island, British Columbia) to Yuquot at Friendly Cove. This is Nuu-chah-nulth traditional territory. The term,...
The Whaler’s Shrine at Yuquot
The weathered church that stands today in Friendly Cove was erected in 1956, for the purposes of “educating” the people of Yuquot. In the vestibule, old plaques and photographs are displayed, memories and keys to the significance of this place. One article in...
Island Research (part 1)
Hands-on research is the best way to begin a book. It's real. It's kinaesthetic. It's inspiring. And it will help you discover whether what's in your mind will work logistically, and on the page. I visited Saltspring Island seven years ago and loved the energy,...
Saltspring Island: I’m Coming Back
I tend to live in seven-year-cycles. So, it's no surprise that I'm returning to Saltspring Island this summer to research a new book. My dream dog, Puddy, came with me last time. It was his last trip. Puddy loved to travel, especially aboard the ferries. This summer,...
