It's October and there are many things I'm missing as the pandemic drags on. These may be limited to Indiana, but maybe you can relate. I miss having some of my Purdue students to our home for cookouts or taco bar. I miss being able to worship at church without a mask. I miss wild hugs and even simple handshakes. I miss reading my students non-verbal cues that are covered by masks. I missed … [Read more...]
Ask the Librarian…& Giveaway
The libraries have been closed where we are for a number of weeks...and that's hard for people who love books and the joy of exploring the stacks. I know I've discovered many authors through that process. I also know that many of you are passionate about your favorite authors and do a great job supporting them. A wonderful way to support authors right now is to ask your library to carry the … [Read more...]
Texas Writes – Loving on Libraries
On December 3rd, I had the honor of participating in a fabulous program called Texas Writes. The Writer's League of Texas, supported by a grant from the Tocker Foundation, established the Texas Writes program in 2013. Their mission is to bring accomplished authors into rural libraries for half-day workshops and panel discussions on writing. Each event is free and open to the public. The program … [Read more...]
One Very Easy Thing Readers Can Do for Authors
As you know by now, I'm celebrating the release of my first historical, Luther and Katharina, the true love story of the heretic monk and great reformer, Martin Luther, and the little known woman he married, Katharina von Bora. Last week I had a week-long Facebook party to celebrate the release, and I gave away a copy of the book each day. This week I'm giving away 2 books over on my website … [Read more...]
King on the Mountain
I grew up on the Rice County, Kansas farmstead established by my mother's grandparents. My dad bought the farm from my great-grandparents when I was about three years old and I lived there till the day I went off to college. It's the only childhood home I remember and it was the best childhood possible. I didn't attend kindergarten, but when it was time to go to elementary school, I only had to … [Read more...]