Sometimes the hardest thing in the world is to think. To have a coherent thought. To be able to form a sentence regardless of the pain that you're feeling. To feel motivated to finish a paragraph. To care enough to check for grammar. To feel desperate to create by smiting that nagging, blinking cursor on the screen.
It's easier to hide under a mountain of pillows, chuck some pills, and stare in a daze. It's easier to stuck in a good novel on my Kindle while my manuscripts suffers silently. My characters are left in suspended animation waiting on resolution to a conflict. Waiting for that inciting incident that's going to take their lives from order to chaos; a simple scientific lesson on entropy.
There are many days that I've sat and watched the cursor blink away at my face....taunting me that I'm not getting anything done. Then there are days that I've looked up and twenty pages have passed...and I'm still writing.
Those days I try to take advantage of because who knows when I'll be able to write again. I try not to think about other writers out there, churning out books, blogs, and articles like nothing. I try not to think of those writers who get up at seven am in the morning and write until lunch time. Or those writers that take their show on the road and have several pages completed daily. What are they doing that I'm not? Do I make excuses for myself because of my illness or do I realize that I have more time on my hands than I've ever had before?
I guess both are true. On days that I don't feel well, then I don't push it. Besides, whatever I do write comes out like crap anyway. I try to keep a pen nearby with my trusty legal pad and jot ideas down. Sometimes I like to "free write". That's when I just type whatever comes to my head. On days that I do feel okay, I try to write something...anything. This is why an outline is the best way to go when writing a book. I've been stuck on my current book so long I don't know what to do anymore. I get as lost as a toddler in a mall. Stuck and not loving it.
So excuses don't help anyone. I'm sure the writers who aren't slackers will tell you that. How else can you get anything done?
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Brian Griffin From Family Guy Is Dead....Why I Won't Be Tuning In
I never thought I'd care that a cartoon character was killed off but I find myself caring. Why? Because Brian was such a well developed and well liked character. He brought stability and reason to a house full of chaos. Family Guy, like it or not, is a show of great significance to pop culture.
It has the younger generation asking those of us who are older about certain references that are made about my generation. Don't believe me? Go to YouTube and Yahoo answers from younger kids questioning the generational references made. Because Seth MacFarlane and I are from the same generation, it starts a dialogue with me and my daughter. It also feels good to remember.
The show also teaches younger viewers about historical events. Events that they sometimes look up on Wikipedia to get more information on. I was amazed at the effect that this thirty minute cartoon had. And last Sunday, it destroyed the very spark that made this controversial but funny cartoon complete. Just because the writers wanted to "shake things up"? How about letting them move from Quahog? Or giving one of them a chronic illness. No you decided to kill off one of the most important characters that was integral to the show.
So what do I do? I don't know if I ever want to watch another episode again. It's like Thanksgiving dinner after Grandma dies. It's like running across an object in your house when you remember that the person that owned it is no longer living. There is absolutely no reason to watch the show any longer. Pulling the rug from under your audience is no way to shake things up. It's a way to make me turn the television off.
Bring Brian back or you've lost a fan forever.
It has the younger generation asking those of us who are older about certain references that are made about my generation. Don't believe me? Go to YouTube and Yahoo answers from younger kids questioning the generational references made. Because Seth MacFarlane and I are from the same generation, it starts a dialogue with me and my daughter. It also feels good to remember.
The show also teaches younger viewers about historical events. Events that they sometimes look up on Wikipedia to get more information on. I was amazed at the effect that this thirty minute cartoon had. And last Sunday, it destroyed the very spark that made this controversial but funny cartoon complete. Just because the writers wanted to "shake things up"? How about letting them move from Quahog? Or giving one of them a chronic illness. No you decided to kill off one of the most important characters that was integral to the show.
So what do I do? I don't know if I ever want to watch another episode again. It's like Thanksgiving dinner after Grandma dies. It's like running across an object in your house when you remember that the person that owned it is no longer living. There is absolutely no reason to watch the show any longer. Pulling the rug from under your audience is no way to shake things up. It's a way to make me turn the television off.
Bring Brian back or you've lost a fan forever.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Bad Amazon Reviews: How To Move Past Them And Keep Writing
Your face is literally burning at the screen as you read those horrible words. You can't believe that they didn't see your vision. The reader just didn't comprehend what you were trying to say. They couldn't have read it because if they did, they would have seen the pure genius of your work and rated it accordingly.
Your first thought? It may be to flag the review. Scour Amazon's guidelines to see if any were broken and try to get them to remove it. You may even ask your friends and family members to flag the review and get it removed. Some authors may even be tempted enough to respond with fury in the comments section.
Don't take the bait. It looks unprofessional and it should never be done in any circumstance. How to get over a bad book review? First, decide if the review has any merit. Some reviews are just personal. The reader may not like you for whatever reason. One of my non-fiction reviews focused on one incident that happened in the book that she didn't agree with and decided to write a three paragraph rant on why I should not have called an ambulance when I injured myself. Even though the paramedics told me I did the right thing, she felt otherwise and slammed my book for that reason. Remember, a reader doesn't really need a good reason to give you a poor review. One reviewer gave a writer one star because the writer's name was larger than the title on the cover.
If you are getting bad reviews based on poor grammar, poor sentence structure, typos, poor picture/illustrations, or formatting, you may want to take notice and make some edits. If the reviews are telling you that there are holes in the plot or there are too many characters, then you may want to remember that on your next novel. I can practically hear you screaming, "But I fixed one plot hole in chapter seven when the bad guy jumps out of the ground and....". If your readers didn't get what you were trying to do the first time, then it may be too complicated or you need to restructure your work. You don't want your readers flipping through the pages trying to figure out your technique. They should be getting caught up in your story, not getting caught up searching through their Kindle.
You are not going to make everyone happy so there is no reason to try. Take the good criticism and make your next novel better. Take the bad criticism and throw it out the window. It only takes three or four minutes to tear down something you spent the better part of a year or more trying to create. My personal saying is, "Those that can, do. Those who can't become critics." Write that statement on a piece of paper above your workspace, then keep writing.
Your first thought? It may be to flag the review. Scour Amazon's guidelines to see if any were broken and try to get them to remove it. You may even ask your friends and family members to flag the review and get it removed. Some authors may even be tempted enough to respond with fury in the comments section.
Don't take the bait. It looks unprofessional and it should never be done in any circumstance. How to get over a bad book review? First, decide if the review has any merit. Some reviews are just personal. The reader may not like you for whatever reason. One of my non-fiction reviews focused on one incident that happened in the book that she didn't agree with and decided to write a three paragraph rant on why I should not have called an ambulance when I injured myself. Even though the paramedics told me I did the right thing, she felt otherwise and slammed my book for that reason. Remember, a reader doesn't really need a good reason to give you a poor review. One reviewer gave a writer one star because the writer's name was larger than the title on the cover.
If you are getting bad reviews based on poor grammar, poor sentence structure, typos, poor picture/illustrations, or formatting, you may want to take notice and make some edits. If the reviews are telling you that there are holes in the plot or there are too many characters, then you may want to remember that on your next novel. I can practically hear you screaming, "But I fixed one plot hole in chapter seven when the bad guy jumps out of the ground and....". If your readers didn't get what you were trying to do the first time, then it may be too complicated or you need to restructure your work. You don't want your readers flipping through the pages trying to figure out your technique. They should be getting caught up in your story, not getting caught up searching through their Kindle.
You are not going to make everyone happy so there is no reason to try. Take the good criticism and make your next novel better. Take the bad criticism and throw it out the window. It only takes three or four minutes to tear down something you spent the better part of a year or more trying to create. My personal saying is, "Those that can, do. Those who can't become critics." Write that statement on a piece of paper above your workspace, then keep writing.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Do You Want To Write? Then Read!
Sigh....
Everyday, thousands of books are being published, thanks to the eBook format. You can become an author in a matter of minutes; a feat that would have been wonderful twenty years ago when I was making my start in the world of writing.
I do feel blessed to be living in such a time.
However, a lot of people tell me that they've always wanted to write a book and think that they may have a "high concept" idea that people will just love. While I've heard some good and bad ideas over the years, the one thing I would tell a "would be" author is to READ!
You need to read the BEST literature and then you need to read the worst. There are a lot of people out there **cough my fiance cough** that constantly complain that they don't have time to read when they spend an inordinate amount of time catching up on what other people are doing on Facebook and other social media sites. Reading is an investment in yourself and I can't understand why people would rather care about what Rihanna is eating right now over investing in something that will help them in the long run.
If you want to write, read. It increases your vocabulary as well. Readers like stories that flow. They like words that they have to look up in a dictionary. Words are your tools and should be seen that way. Words are like the different prescription medications that doctors prescribe patients. You should try to perfect your craft all the time. I probably spend more time reading than I do writing.
You should too as a beginner.
Everyday, thousands of books are being published, thanks to the eBook format. You can become an author in a matter of minutes; a feat that would have been wonderful twenty years ago when I was making my start in the world of writing.
I do feel blessed to be living in such a time.
However, a lot of people tell me that they've always wanted to write a book and think that they may have a "high concept" idea that people will just love. While I've heard some good and bad ideas over the years, the one thing I would tell a "would be" author is to READ!
You need to read the BEST literature and then you need to read the worst. There are a lot of people out there **cough my fiance cough** that constantly complain that they don't have time to read when they spend an inordinate amount of time catching up on what other people are doing on Facebook and other social media sites. Reading is an investment in yourself and I can't understand why people would rather care about what Rihanna is eating right now over investing in something that will help them in the long run.
If you want to write, read. It increases your vocabulary as well. Readers like stories that flow. They like words that they have to look up in a dictionary. Words are your tools and should be seen that way. Words are like the different prescription medications that doctors prescribe patients. You should try to perfect your craft all the time. I probably spend more time reading than I do writing.
You should too as a beginner.
Friday, August 9, 2013
GRAMMAR POLICE AND BOOK REVIEWS
Every author goes through the same thing. You have a pile of fingernails that you've bitten off in a nice neat pile on your desk. You try to get inside the head of your reader, hoping that they pay attention to the parts in your story that you believe you placed so much emphasis on.
You hope that they cheer when you want them to and feel what you wanted them to feel at the appropriate time. But it is nearly impossible.
As a writer, once you realize that everyone is reading your book for different reasons, you will see that not everyone will get the same thing out of your book.
I wrote a light comedic novella named Serial Me, where my character is the opposite of what most heroines look like in a book. She is overweight with low self esteem. She is trying to find Mr. Right while holding onto a job that she doesn't feel worthy of.
I hope that women with weight and self esteem issues will see that they too are beautiful. I hope that they stop worrying about self image and learn that once they accept themselves, others shall too. I should know. I'm in a wheelchair and suffer from many chronic illnesses. You think carrying a few extra pounds around is a possible deterrent. Try having 24 inch rims stuck on the side of your ass.
What will others get from the book? A great light and funny read on a Sunday afternoon. Perhaps someone interested in a high concept novel. Maybe someone looking for a few laughs. Or someone that just wants to size you up as a writer. Competition perhaps? Maybe.
I've noticed where a lot of reviewers will immediately make comment about grammar usage and misspellings. While there are so many horrible books out there that don't even grasp the basic concepts of the English language, there are some great books out there with just a few mistakes.
But there are those comments where the reviewer will berate the author over these errors. But what do you do when your book doesn't have errors?
I read one review where this woman was taking the author to task over grammar. But other reviewers chimed in and said that they could find no mistakes. Surely not as many as the first reviewer mentioned. Then it hit me....
What IF the reviewer didn't know what she was talking about? Novel idea, right? Of course! It makes sense. Most people that claim they know perfect grammar DON'T. What are their qualifications? Do they have a degree in English? Are they professional editors? What made this woman so sure that the book wasn't grammatically correct?
I saw two commercials and ten websites that displayed the word WALLAH! When it's actually written Voila! But you couldn't tell the original authors of these websites that they were wrong. How many people do you think they go on "correcting"?
Don't take it too personal when someone takes you to task over a few mistakes here and there. I've found an error in World War Z but the story was so good, I didn't care. I still don't. The ones that lament the most about how the English language is going straight to hell are the ones that's sending it there with gasoline drawers on.
Unless you're one of those writers that really need to take an English class or two. IF so then stop reading and get there....FAST!
You hope that they cheer when you want them to and feel what you wanted them to feel at the appropriate time. But it is nearly impossible.
As a writer, once you realize that everyone is reading your book for different reasons, you will see that not everyone will get the same thing out of your book.
I wrote a light comedic novella named Serial Me, where my character is the opposite of what most heroines look like in a book. She is overweight with low self esteem. She is trying to find Mr. Right while holding onto a job that she doesn't feel worthy of.
I hope that women with weight and self esteem issues will see that they too are beautiful. I hope that they stop worrying about self image and learn that once they accept themselves, others shall too. I should know. I'm in a wheelchair and suffer from many chronic illnesses. You think carrying a few extra pounds around is a possible deterrent. Try having 24 inch rims stuck on the side of your ass.
What will others get from the book? A great light and funny read on a Sunday afternoon. Perhaps someone interested in a high concept novel. Maybe someone looking for a few laughs. Or someone that just wants to size you up as a writer. Competition perhaps? Maybe.
I've noticed where a lot of reviewers will immediately make comment about grammar usage and misspellings. While there are so many horrible books out there that don't even grasp the basic concepts of the English language, there are some great books out there with just a few mistakes.
But there are those comments where the reviewer will berate the author over these errors. But what do you do when your book doesn't have errors?
I read one review where this woman was taking the author to task over grammar. But other reviewers chimed in and said that they could find no mistakes. Surely not as many as the first reviewer mentioned. Then it hit me....
What IF the reviewer didn't know what she was talking about? Novel idea, right? Of course! It makes sense. Most people that claim they know perfect grammar DON'T. What are their qualifications? Do they have a degree in English? Are they professional editors? What made this woman so sure that the book wasn't grammatically correct?
I saw two commercials and ten websites that displayed the word WALLAH! When it's actually written Voila! But you couldn't tell the original authors of these websites that they were wrong. How many people do you think they go on "correcting"?
Don't take it too personal when someone takes you to task over a few mistakes here and there. I've found an error in World War Z but the story was so good, I didn't care. I still don't. The ones that lament the most about how the English language is going straight to hell are the ones that's sending it there with gasoline drawers on.
Unless you're one of those writers that really need to take an English class or two. IF so then stop reading and get there....FAST!
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Diary of A Sick Chick Available on iBookstore
Thank you!
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Serial Me- New and Upcoming Book from Best-Selling Author Sonya Dickerson
New book from best-selling author, Sonya Dickerson
What would you do if there was a woman going around killing all the eligible and gorgeous men in your town? What would you do if you and that woman happened to look like twins?
Vanessa Johnson has it all as a Health and Fitness editor for a popular magazine; except a boyfriend and a body to die for.
Meanwhile a serial killer is on the loose in the city of Chicago causing mayhem and destruction everywhere she turns.
It isn't long before all fingers begin pointing at her. Vanessa must make a decision; watch her life go down the drain or help the police nab the killer before it's too late and she finds herself behind bars.
What made you decide to write this story?
it was just a silly idea i had. something that i had been pondering for quite some time. when i came up with the concept the story began to write itself.
Did you run into any issues that you'd like to share with your readers?
well it was a very difficult book to do. mixing comedy in with death isn't always easy. death and murder are sensitive subjects with people and i wanted to do it tasteful. my first screenplay was a dark comedy about suicide so i was treading on familiar ground.
i wanted to make it funny because i enjoy writing comedies. 'stick with what you know' can be helpful advice for some writers but terrible advice for others. a really great writer should be able to write many different different genres without losing authenticity. once you get ahold to a character's voice, you can make them hilariously funny or tragically sad. shakespeare is a great example of his. he wrote many genres and did them in such an authentic voice that people still enjoy him to this day and will continue to do so.
What is your favorite Shakespeare play?
anyone that knows me knows that it's Macbeth.
Are you worried that you didn't portray your character Vanessa correctly? Meaning that because she is overweight, are you worried that people will think her character was too stereotypical? Or not authentic enough? I realize you like that word.
it really depends. and yes i like authenticity. i hope some people can relate to her and empathize. without that, then you really don't care WHAT happens to the character. if that happens then you haven't done your job. time to start over at that point.
What would you like your readers to know about this book?
i had a lot of fun writing it and i hope you have just as much fun reading it.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Is It Worth Publishing a Kindle Single?
If you have a manuscript from 5,000 to 30,000 words, Kindle has a platform where you can send in a new or already published manuscript. Kindle Singles are submitted to Amazon where they are considered for publication.
If you are considered for publication for a Kindle Single, congratulations! It is quite an honor, especially if you have been rejected time and time again for publication with other agents and publishing companies. Only the best ( in some opinions) are selected for publication which means it is a really big deal.
Should you consider publishing your manuscript as a Kindle Single? Why not? Many indie writers are getting discovered in a big way here. It also looks wonderful on a resume as you seek other options in your writing career.
I've had one manuscript for consideration, but alas, I was turned down. I won't stop trying though. I would recommend that you submit your very best, making sure that it has been edited for errors and clarity.
Good Luck!
If you are considered for publication for a Kindle Single, congratulations! It is quite an honor, especially if you have been rejected time and time again for publication with other agents and publishing companies. Only the best ( in some opinions) are selected for publication which means it is a really big deal.
Should you consider publishing your manuscript as a Kindle Single? Why not? Many indie writers are getting discovered in a big way here. It also looks wonderful on a resume as you seek other options in your writing career.
I've had one manuscript for consideration, but alas, I was turned down. I won't stop trying though. I would recommend that you submit your very best, making sure that it has been edited for errors and clarity.
Good Luck!
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
New Book: Serial Me from Sonya Dickerson
 |
| Coming September 2013! |
What would you do if there was a woman going around killing all the eligible and gorgeous men in your town? What would you do if you and that woman happened to look like twins?
Vanessa Johnson has it all as a Health and Fitness editor for a popular magazine; except a boyfriend and a body to die for.
Meanwhile a serial killer is on the loose in the city of Chicago causing mayhem and destruction everywhere she turns.
It isn't long before all fingers begin pointing at her. Vanessa must make a decision; watch her life go down the drain or help the police nab the killer before it's too late and she finds herself behind bars.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
REVIEW: The Haves and The Have Nots- Tyler Perry's New HIt or Miss?
Does "Tyler Perry Hate Black Women"? Did Oprah damage her brand and reputation by airing this show? Was the show "so awful that the awfulness appears intentional"?
Even though the ratings were sensational, the reviews from others were absolutely brutal. I used quotes in the sentences above because they were direct quotes from sources like NewsOne and the LA Times.
I did watch both episodes of the show when it aired on Tuesday night but I also caught the hour interview that Oprah did with Tyler Perry beforehand. It was an interesting view of Mr. Perry and he made some valid points about his work.
Paraphrasing, he stated that he writes from his experiences, particularly coming up in New Orleans. He can only write what he knows and they are his stories alone to tell. Now that is quite understandable but in my opinion, Mr. Perry can no longer use that as an excuse.
We are speaking about a man that has paved his own road into Hollywood when he was constantly pushed and shoved to the side. He made Hollywood see him for the force that he is. He opened his own door when so many were closed in his face. He is a multi-millionaire and has the ability to widen his experiences. He has the means to create new opportunities for himself and those can be used as new inspiration for his writing.
It should no longer be used as an excuse when people ask him why he tends to stick with the same material over and over again when he has the means to expand upon it and become much greater. Sure he has an audience and a sure formula. He creates what this particular group wants to see, produces it, and is well rewarded.
But shouldn't a man of his stature be willing to take more chances just to create a wider audience for his work? This is a golden opportunity to snag those who are not impressed with the body of work that he has created so far and turn them into fans. Or at least capture the respect that he deserves.
It seems as if Mr. Perry gives into a paranoia (refusing to let critics view his work before released) in keeping others outside, but somehow wanting the respect from those who just don't see him in the same light as the "Hollywood Elite". This is a man who, by all rights, has earned his spot at the table with the greatest and yet gets stiffed every single time.
The Haves and The Have Nots is a soapy dramatic series which I held high hopes for. I must say that while I don't consider myself a fan of his work, I do have tremendous respect for Mr. Perry. I fall in love with his story every single time I hear it. It gives me great courage to continue my writing as well.
However, I am not in love with this show. The show seemed to be a mish-mash of some of his earlier work with the same characters over and over again. I understand that Mr. Perry was greatly influenced by other bodies of work that came before him, such as The Color Purple. At some points in the show, I sat on the edge of my seat wondering when a line from The Color Purple was going to come spitting out of Hanna the maid's mouth. Kathryn Cryer seemed to come straight from Kathy Bates' character in The Family That Preys. Candace seemed as one-dimensional as Sanaa Lathan's character Andrea. Other characters were just plain strange such as Wyatt Cryer and Jeffrey Harrington.
There were contrived plot lines that drove me to almost change the channel. Why would Amanda insist on having Candace tutor her when her father is a skilled litigator? Why does Amanda insist on having Candace around her all of a sudden? This girl one minute was giving John the time of his life in a bedroom and then shows up at the house because Amanda happens to be friends with her. Not only that, Amanda INSISTS that Candace spend the night and....gasp....the family hasn't heard one word about her in the past and now she's hanging around like she's family! It holds onto the notion that if Amanda decided to tell her to f**** off, she would have no OTHER reason to even be in the house to provide the tension. It's just too contrived to be believable and Amanda would have to be doing cartwheels because she just loves this beautiful black girl Candace so much to keep her in the house and under John's nose for no other reason than making him squirm.
I am not sure where Wyatt and Jeffrey are going but their introduction into the story seemed a bit rushed. There was too much exposition...too much telling and not enough showing. The first episode pretty much stuck to the main house, with the exception of a hotel room and Hanna's house. That left the dialogue too stilted. The characters were forced to tell the audience too much. It was like watching a play in which the backstory must be explained rather than revealed to the audience slowly. Pacing...Mr. Perry. Pacing.....
I still can't figure out why Wyatt, their son, walked around the house naked for seven minutes. It delved the somewhat serious tone into complete lunacy.
Lastly, who physically licks their lips (when NOT done in jest) when they see someone physically appealing? Oh come now, Jeffrey Harrington. Or was that a really bad stereotype of the gay community? I haven't figured that one out yet.
Does Tyler Perry hate black women? Of course not. I think that notion is patently absurd. Tyler Perry sticks with his winning formula and doesn't deviate. Women in his world are either church going fanatics, stuck up and bourgeois, or hypersexual and in need of a good man/God. His characters are just the same ones over and over again but he just changes the names on the script. It's like he's plagiarized himself again and again. Morally, it's not wrong to do so. Financially? He laughs all the way to the bank. Smart? Depends on how you look at the situation. Is he being fair to himself? Not even close.
Mr. Perry stated that he feels burdened by the fact that so many people depend on him. They need to continue working and making names for themselves which means he needs to continue producing.
If I were standing in front of him right now and he asked my lowly opinion, I would simply tell him to take a year off. Explore the world if he hasn't already done so. Talk to people of different backgrounds. Read lots of books...books he would have never read in a million years. Watch movies that he wouldn't have normally watched ever because you just don't care for that genre. Talk to aspiring writers and budding actors. Dare to be different. Open your heart and your mind to something new.
Mr. Perry. This is what you are here to do. Creation is stifled when it's forced and it's time for a new formula. I, of all people, know that you have what it takes. It's time for something new.
.
Even though the ratings were sensational, the reviews from others were absolutely brutal. I used quotes in the sentences above because they were direct quotes from sources like NewsOne and the LA Times.
I did watch both episodes of the show when it aired on Tuesday night but I also caught the hour interview that Oprah did with Tyler Perry beforehand. It was an interesting view of Mr. Perry and he made some valid points about his work.
Paraphrasing, he stated that he writes from his experiences, particularly coming up in New Orleans. He can only write what he knows and they are his stories alone to tell. Now that is quite understandable but in my opinion, Mr. Perry can no longer use that as an excuse.
We are speaking about a man that has paved his own road into Hollywood when he was constantly pushed and shoved to the side. He made Hollywood see him for the force that he is. He opened his own door when so many were closed in his face. He is a multi-millionaire and has the ability to widen his experiences. He has the means to create new opportunities for himself and those can be used as new inspiration for his writing.
It should no longer be used as an excuse when people ask him why he tends to stick with the same material over and over again when he has the means to expand upon it and become much greater. Sure he has an audience and a sure formula. He creates what this particular group wants to see, produces it, and is well rewarded.
But shouldn't a man of his stature be willing to take more chances just to create a wider audience for his work? This is a golden opportunity to snag those who are not impressed with the body of work that he has created so far and turn them into fans. Or at least capture the respect that he deserves.
It seems as if Mr. Perry gives into a paranoia (refusing to let critics view his work before released) in keeping others outside, but somehow wanting the respect from those who just don't see him in the same light as the "Hollywood Elite". This is a man who, by all rights, has earned his spot at the table with the greatest and yet gets stiffed every single time.
The Haves and The Have Nots is a soapy dramatic series which I held high hopes for. I must say that while I don't consider myself a fan of his work, I do have tremendous respect for Mr. Perry. I fall in love with his story every single time I hear it. It gives me great courage to continue my writing as well.
However, I am not in love with this show. The show seemed to be a mish-mash of some of his earlier work with the same characters over and over again. I understand that Mr. Perry was greatly influenced by other bodies of work that came before him, such as The Color Purple. At some points in the show, I sat on the edge of my seat wondering when a line from The Color Purple was going to come spitting out of Hanna the maid's mouth. Kathryn Cryer seemed to come straight from Kathy Bates' character in The Family That Preys. Candace seemed as one-dimensional as Sanaa Lathan's character Andrea. Other characters were just plain strange such as Wyatt Cryer and Jeffrey Harrington.
There were contrived plot lines that drove me to almost change the channel. Why would Amanda insist on having Candace tutor her when her father is a skilled litigator? Why does Amanda insist on having Candace around her all of a sudden? This girl one minute was giving John the time of his life in a bedroom and then shows up at the house because Amanda happens to be friends with her. Not only that, Amanda INSISTS that Candace spend the night and....gasp....the family hasn't heard one word about her in the past and now she's hanging around like she's family! It holds onto the notion that if Amanda decided to tell her to f**** off, she would have no OTHER reason to even be in the house to provide the tension. It's just too contrived to be believable and Amanda would have to be doing cartwheels because she just loves this beautiful black girl Candace so much to keep her in the house and under John's nose for no other reason than making him squirm.
I am not sure where Wyatt and Jeffrey are going but their introduction into the story seemed a bit rushed. There was too much exposition...too much telling and not enough showing. The first episode pretty much stuck to the main house, with the exception of a hotel room and Hanna's house. That left the dialogue too stilted. The characters were forced to tell the audience too much. It was like watching a play in which the backstory must be explained rather than revealed to the audience slowly. Pacing...Mr. Perry. Pacing.....
I still can't figure out why Wyatt, their son, walked around the house naked for seven minutes. It delved the somewhat serious tone into complete lunacy.
Lastly, who physically licks their lips (when NOT done in jest) when they see someone physically appealing? Oh come now, Jeffrey Harrington. Or was that a really bad stereotype of the gay community? I haven't figured that one out yet.
Does Tyler Perry hate black women? Of course not. I think that notion is patently absurd. Tyler Perry sticks with his winning formula and doesn't deviate. Women in his world are either church going fanatics, stuck up and bourgeois, or hypersexual and in need of a good man/God. His characters are just the same ones over and over again but he just changes the names on the script. It's like he's plagiarized himself again and again. Morally, it's not wrong to do so. Financially? He laughs all the way to the bank. Smart? Depends on how you look at the situation. Is he being fair to himself? Not even close.
Mr. Perry stated that he feels burdened by the fact that so many people depend on him. They need to continue working and making names for themselves which means he needs to continue producing.
If I were standing in front of him right now and he asked my lowly opinion, I would simply tell him to take a year off. Explore the world if he hasn't already done so. Talk to people of different backgrounds. Read lots of books...books he would have never read in a million years. Watch movies that he wouldn't have normally watched ever because you just don't care for that genre. Talk to aspiring writers and budding actors. Dare to be different. Open your heart and your mind to something new.
Mr. Perry. This is what you are here to do. Creation is stifled when it's forced and it's time for a new formula. I, of all people, know that you have what it takes. It's time for something new.
.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
The Bridesmaids--Chick Lit Thriller-Coming Soon!!!
Four women head to Chicago to celebrate the wedding of their beloved friend Tara, who is marrying her high school sweetheart. But there are secrets plaguing this group of women that threaten to be revealed during the three day weekend.
These secrets could stop the wedding dead in its tracks or even cost one of the women their lives.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Learning From Book Reviews
Writing is a skill that not everyone is suited for. It has always remained a passion for me and will continue to do so until the day I transition from this earthly existence.
When you find yourself sifting through the reviews on your work, the process can be a bit daunting. You have to know exactly how to look at criticism and decide which is helpful and which is not. There are very few legitimate book reviews out there because a lot of times the reader has something personal against the writer. Sometimes they just don't like the layout, the cover art, or more trivialities.
But when you do get that rare chance to read a review, good or bad, it should be relished. It is an opportunity for you as the writer to get good feedback on your work.
There is a reviewer that reviewed two of my books on Amazon. Now she gave them two and three stars respectively, but I appreciate the time that she took in giving my work an honest review, even if I didn't like what she said. I respect it because it was honest and unbiased.
Because of it, I'm working on becoming a better writer and create characters that aren't cookie cutter two dimensional people. I want my work to be better than that and I should strive harder to be better.
To that reviewer. Thank you. I'm only getting better because of your honesty.
When you find yourself sifting through the reviews on your work, the process can be a bit daunting. You have to know exactly how to look at criticism and decide which is helpful and which is not. There are very few legitimate book reviews out there because a lot of times the reader has something personal against the writer. Sometimes they just don't like the layout, the cover art, or more trivialities.
But when you do get that rare chance to read a review, good or bad, it should be relished. It is an opportunity for you as the writer to get good feedback on your work.
There is a reviewer that reviewed two of my books on Amazon. Now she gave them two and three stars respectively, but I appreciate the time that she took in giving my work an honest review, even if I didn't like what she said. I respect it because it was honest and unbiased.
Because of it, I'm working on becoming a better writer and create characters that aren't cookie cutter two dimensional people. I want my work to be better than that and I should strive harder to be better.
To that reviewer. Thank you. I'm only getting better because of your honesty.
Monday, April 8, 2013
What's Wrong WIth Urban Fiction? (updated)
What's Wrong With Urban Fiction? The Top Five Trends in Urban Fiction That Needs to Stop
Plenty.
I can enjoy a great UF book every once in a while but it has gotten to the point where if you've read one, you've read them all.There seem to be recurring themes in quite a few of them. The UF book that doesn't deal with these sterotypical characters will bring a new day in UF and if crafted right, could make a killing with Hollywood beating down their doors. Not to mention agents fighting to sign them to multiple book deals.
Here are a few of the stereotypes that I would like to die a quiet but certain death:
1. The Bad Bitch
There is a bad bitch in every novel. Her skin color runs the gamut from pecan to honey. Her hair is long, past her shoulders due to her Indian heritage. She is no taller than 5'4" and the baddest bitch on the block. Every girl wants to be her while every dude wants to have sex with her. There simply isn't another girl badder than she is in the game.
I can enjoy a great UF book every once in a while but it has gotten to the point where if you've read one, you've read them all.There seem to be recurring themes in quite a few of them. The UF book that doesn't deal with these sterotypical characters will bring a new day in UF and if crafted right, could make a killing with Hollywood beating down their doors. Not to mention agents fighting to sign them to multiple book deals.
Here are a few of the stereotypes that I would like to die a quiet but certain death:
1. The Bad Bitch
There is a bad bitch in every novel. Her skin color runs the gamut from pecan to honey. Her hair is long, past her shoulders due to her Indian heritage. She is no taller than 5'4" and the baddest bitch on the block. Every girl wants to be her while every dude wants to have sex with her. There simply isn't another girl badder than she is in the game.
Really? Why do we stick to the same kind of heroine in our novels? I was guilty of writing like this in my early days. Because I couldn't be the girl that I described, I created her in my fiction. Does it speak to a certain self-hatred in our community? What's hot in the Black community can go from the type of jeans you like to the hue of black skin that you're attracted to. For once I'd like to see the 5'9" dark skinned girl get the guy!
2. A Drug Dealer Named Nino
Does this need any explanation? Obviously it does. Many writers are guilty of writing cookie cutter characters. I am as well. But come on....even though Nino is the perfect name for a drug dealer (no offense to anyone with that name) it's just overdone. Get a baby name book and start there.
3. Label Dropping Fools
Everyone wears Prada, Gucci, Fendi, etc. It sounds like a really bad rap lyric. Everyone is fresh to death wearing the latest in fashions from these designers. The label dropping in Urban Fiction is just atrocious and over used. Boring and no imagination.
2. A Drug Dealer Named Nino
Does this need any explanation? Obviously it does. Many writers are guilty of writing cookie cutter characters. I am as well. But come on....even though Nino is the perfect name for a drug dealer (no offense to anyone with that name) it's just overdone. Get a baby name book and start there.
3. Label Dropping Fools
Everyone wears Prada, Gucci, Fendi, etc. It sounds like a really bad rap lyric. Everyone is fresh to death wearing the latest in fashions from these designers. The label dropping in Urban Fiction is just atrocious and over used. Boring and no imagination.
Of course blacks aren't the only people guilty of this. But it just seems to be a trend in our literature. We base our judgments based on the labels on your clothing. We determine your worth by the purse you carry or the car you drive. Seriously? No wonder so many youths are addicted to a life of crime. They are able to secure the things they want in a rapid fashion. Why go to school and waste all that time trying to earn money when you can have what you want in a matter of days?
4.The N Word
A few of these dropped in an UF book is to be expected but only in dialogue. I was reading a book the other day where the author was using the N word in her exposition!!! Not to sound like a broken record, but if we want people to stop using the word, then we need to stop using this so much in our literature, especially when it's not in the dialogue. The omniscient voice of the narrator should never refer to the characters as N*****s. It's demeaning.
5. No Editing Whatsoever.
Too many Urban Fiction books are written so poorly, they are unreadable. I was recently accused of attacking UF writers and making them look stupid. I had to think about that for a moment. Was that my ultimate goal? Making UF writers look stupid? Of course not and the thought makes me sad. What really makes me sad is that some of these self published books with poor grammar are a reflection on the educational system in this country.
There is nothing wrong with a gaffe here and there (I know my books have a few) but some books are so unreadable it makes you wonder how the author got through life without the ability to construct a sentence. It's embarrassing. Some authors choose to argue over these reviews instead of taking the constructive criticism and working on their novels to make them better.
4.The N Word
A few of these dropped in an UF book is to be expected but only in dialogue. I was reading a book the other day where the author was using the N word in her exposition!!! Not to sound like a broken record, but if we want people to stop using the word, then we need to stop using this so much in our literature, especially when it's not in the dialogue. The omniscient voice of the narrator should never refer to the characters as N*****s. It's demeaning.
5. No Editing Whatsoever.
Too many Urban Fiction books are written so poorly, they are unreadable. I was recently accused of attacking UF writers and making them look stupid. I had to think about that for a moment. Was that my ultimate goal? Making UF writers look stupid? Of course not and the thought makes me sad. What really makes me sad is that some of these self published books with poor grammar are a reflection on the educational system in this country.
There is nothing wrong with a gaffe here and there (I know my books have a few) but some books are so unreadable it makes you wonder how the author got through life without the ability to construct a sentence. It's embarrassing. Some authors choose to argue over these reviews instead of taking the constructive criticism and working on their novels to make them better.
We can do better people. There is simply no excuse. Just like with anything else you take on, learning and perfecting your craft is essential. Don't ever take your readers for granted. Don't feel because you've been told you're a good writer by a few people that it's enough to start writing garbage. You won't last long in this game. Just watch professional singers. Show up late to concerts on the regular, smoking and drinking to ruin your voice, and plain disrespecting your fans will ensure that your next song will flop.
Be true to your fans and they will remain true to you. The same thing applies for writers. We aren't exempt. Keep writing and putting your best foot forward and your fans will propel you to heights that you've always dreamed about. They keep food on your table and clothes on your back...IF you're lucky to do this for a living!
Until you reach that level, strive for the best always. Success will follow.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
THE WAIT IS OVER! DIARY OF A SICK CHICK YEAR TWO!
Why were you compelled to do a second book?
I never dreamed that I would do a first one! LOL. The blog that I wrote was a personal one so that I could keep track of my symptoms. Shortly, it progressed to something else. I was asked by many if I were going to write a book two after the first one was released. Besides, there are many books out there that detail the first year of illness but not many describing the second.
What did you learn from writing Year Two?
I learned many hard lessons. Lessons no one should really have to go through. Loss of friends and just judgments imposed on you from other people. There were a lot of good things too. I learned who I could count on in a pinch.
What do you want your readers to know?
That living life with chronic illness can be difficult but doable.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Diary of A Sick Chick: Year Two of Living With Chronic Illness
Coming soon!!!!!!!!!
February 2013!!!!!!!!!
So many books focus on the first year of illness. But what happens when the "excitement" of your diagnosis wears off? You're left with Year Two.
2012 was an interesting year for me as I battled flare after flare along with a near miss with death. There were some good times as well and I'd like to share yet another year with you.
Thank you for all the support!
Love,
Sonya
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
All Zombied Out? There Aren't That Many Shades of Gray!
There are two trends with ebooks today. One is Zombies, Zombies, and more Zombies. The other you ask? Erotica. We have "The Walking Dead," World War Z", and "Fifty Shades of Gray" to thank.
There are literally thousands of books on each subject with different spins. Give me a apocalyptic thriller with twists and turns, and zero unpredictability, and I'm a happy girl. I'm in the bed for hours trying to get to the words The End!
But this is a genre that has turned outrageous. Erotica is a subject that I'm not too keen on but with the success of Fifty Shades of Gray, the literary world has taken note!
Of course when I'm feeling low, I like to read a book that takes me to a time when the world is a normal place. The dog craps in the same part of the house when you're just inches away from taking him outside. The coffeemaker is broken...again. Your car insurance check is late so they are about to cancel your policy and this is all before you've had your morning coffee.
Then you turn on the news and a zombie is eating the reporter as a snack after finishing off the entire camera crew.
And. Shit. Just. Got. Serious.
Those types of books will have me engrossed for hours. But I must say that I'm getting a little zombied out. I think the subject has been covered a thousand times over. I'm looking for something totally original. Witches and wizards have been done to death since Shakespeare. Thanks to the Twilight series and True Blood, Vampires have had their day. Now it's almost time to say goodbye to the Zombies....or is it?
In terms of erotica, there are those that can write a sex scene so memorable, Viagra would become obsolete. Others, not so much. It's a genre that requires special talent, which many writers simply don't possess. It is an act that many adults find quite pleasure in but have no clue how to put the process into a believable and credible sex scene that can totally engross a reader instead of just grossing the reader out.
Hopefully many writers will stop beating these two dead horses who have been on the side of the road deteriorating and decomposing rapidly. There isn't too much of them left so let's move on shall we? Looking to break the mold? Create a new monster. One the world has yet to see. Then my fellow writers and readers...you've got yourself a freaking story.
There are literally thousands of books on each subject with different spins. Give me a apocalyptic thriller with twists and turns, and zero unpredictability, and I'm a happy girl. I'm in the bed for hours trying to get to the words The End!
But this is a genre that has turned outrageous. Erotica is a subject that I'm not too keen on but with the success of Fifty Shades of Gray, the literary world has taken note!
Of course when I'm feeling low, I like to read a book that takes me to a time when the world is a normal place. The dog craps in the same part of the house when you're just inches away from taking him outside. The coffeemaker is broken...again. Your car insurance check is late so they are about to cancel your policy and this is all before you've had your morning coffee.
Then you turn on the news and a zombie is eating the reporter as a snack after finishing off the entire camera crew.
And. Shit. Just. Got. Serious.
Those types of books will have me engrossed for hours. But I must say that I'm getting a little zombied out. I think the subject has been covered a thousand times over. I'm looking for something totally original. Witches and wizards have been done to death since Shakespeare. Thanks to the Twilight series and True Blood, Vampires have had their day. Now it's almost time to say goodbye to the Zombies....or is it?
In terms of erotica, there are those that can write a sex scene so memorable, Viagra would become obsolete. Others, not so much. It's a genre that requires special talent, which many writers simply don't possess. It is an act that many adults find quite pleasure in but have no clue how to put the process into a believable and credible sex scene that can totally engross a reader instead of just grossing the reader out.
Hopefully many writers will stop beating these two dead horses who have been on the side of the road deteriorating and decomposing rapidly. There isn't too much of them left so let's move on shall we? Looking to break the mold? Create a new monster. One the world has yet to see. Then my fellow writers and readers...you've got yourself a freaking story.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
What Does She See? **Diary of A Sick Chick**
Featuring the poem, "What Does She See?"
Coming soon
Diary of A Sick Chick: Year Two Of Living With Chronic Illness
Available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo in February 2013
What's Wrong With Urban Fiction? The Top Five Trends in Urban Fiction That Needs to Stop
Plenty.
I can enjoy a great UF book every once in a while but it has gotten to the point where if you've read one, you've read them all.There seem to be recurring themes in quite a few of them. The UF book that doesn't deal with these sterotypical characters will bring a new day in UF and if crafted right, could make a killing with Hollywood beating down their doors. Not to mention agents fighting to sign them to multiple book deals.
Here are a few of the stereotypes that I would like to die a quiet but certain death:
1. The Bad Bitch
There is a bad bitch in every novel. Her skin color runs the gamut from pecan to honey. Her hair is long, past her shoulders due to her Indian heritage. She is no taller than 5'4" and the baddest bitch on the block. Every girl wants to be her while every dude wants to have sex with her. There simply isn't another girl badder than she is in the game.
2. A Drug Dealer Named Nino
Does this need any explanation?
3. Label Dropping Fools
Everyone wears Prada, Gucci, Fendi, etc. It sounds like a really bad rap lyric. Everyone is fresh to death wearing the latest in fashions from these designers. The label dropping in Urban Fiction is just atrocious and over used. Boring and no imagination.
4.The N Word
A few of these dropped in an UF book is to be expected but only in dialogue. I was reading a book the other day where the author was using the N word in her exposition!!! Not to sound like a broken record, but if we want people to stop using the word, then we need to stop using this so much in our literature, especially when it's not in the dialogue. The omniscient voice of the narrator should never refer to the characters as N*****s. It's demeaning.
5. No Editing Whatsoever.
Too many Urban Fiction books are written so poorly, they are unreadable. I was recently accused of attacking UF writers and making them look stupid. I had to think about that for a moment. Was that my ultimate goal? Making UF writers look stupid? Of course not and the thought makes me sad. What really makes me sad is that some of these self published books with poor grammar are a reflection on the educational system in this country.
There is nothing wrong with a gaffe here and there (I know my books have a few) but some books are so unreadable it makes you wonder how the author got through life without the ability to construct a sentence. It's embarrassing. Some authors choose to argue over these reviews instead of taking the constructive criticism and working on their novels to make them better.
I can enjoy a great UF book every once in a while but it has gotten to the point where if you've read one, you've read them all.There seem to be recurring themes in quite a few of them. The UF book that doesn't deal with these sterotypical characters will bring a new day in UF and if crafted right, could make a killing with Hollywood beating down their doors. Not to mention agents fighting to sign them to multiple book deals.
Here are a few of the stereotypes that I would like to die a quiet but certain death:
1. The Bad Bitch
There is a bad bitch in every novel. Her skin color runs the gamut from pecan to honey. Her hair is long, past her shoulders due to her Indian heritage. She is no taller than 5'4" and the baddest bitch on the block. Every girl wants to be her while every dude wants to have sex with her. There simply isn't another girl badder than she is in the game.
2. A Drug Dealer Named Nino
Does this need any explanation?
3. Label Dropping Fools
Everyone wears Prada, Gucci, Fendi, etc. It sounds like a really bad rap lyric. Everyone is fresh to death wearing the latest in fashions from these designers. The label dropping in Urban Fiction is just atrocious and over used. Boring and no imagination.
4.The N Word
A few of these dropped in an UF book is to be expected but only in dialogue. I was reading a book the other day where the author was using the N word in her exposition!!! Not to sound like a broken record, but if we want people to stop using the word, then we need to stop using this so much in our literature, especially when it's not in the dialogue. The omniscient voice of the narrator should never refer to the characters as N*****s. It's demeaning.
5. No Editing Whatsoever.
Too many Urban Fiction books are written so poorly, they are unreadable. I was recently accused of attacking UF writers and making them look stupid. I had to think about that for a moment. Was that my ultimate goal? Making UF writers look stupid? Of course not and the thought makes me sad. What really makes me sad is that some of these self published books with poor grammar are a reflection on the educational system in this country.
There is nothing wrong with a gaffe here and there (I know my books have a few) but some books are so unreadable it makes you wonder how the author got through life without the ability to construct a sentence. It's embarrassing. Some authors choose to argue over these reviews instead of taking the constructive criticism and working on their novels to make them better.
The Curious Case of Father Time **Coming Soon**
 |
| The new cover design! What do you think? |
The Curious Case of Father Time will be available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo in late 2013!
I'm looking forward to releasing my first science fiction thriller!
I was asked the other day what inspired me to write a book like this. Well the short answer is that I'm a bit of a geek when it comes to science, especially time travel. While I don't do much reading in that particular genre, I am a fan of Brian Cox, Stephen Hawking, and my personal favorite Michio Kaku.
I always wanted to write a book for the holidays, selling out like most writers wanting a paycheck. I noticed that every angle you can think of have been done for the sake of a good Christmas story but not many stories focus on the coming New Year. So I started there and combined my love for science and I came up with this story.
I just hope that you guys enjoy the story. Again, I don't plan to write solely science fiction because I've stated over and over again, I'm a storyteller. I don't like to limit myself to any certain genre and a good storyteller shouldn't have to.
So I'm excited for this release. I've worked really hard on it and I just can't wait to share my written words with all of you.
Thank you,
Sonya
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