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November
Newsletter
Newsletter
| Viv's Views November, 2007 Newsletter from Vivian Gilbert Zabel |
| Up Coming Events opportunities to meet Vivian Author’s Reception: Edmond, OK Church of the Nazarene, 3001 S. Boulevard Nov. 17, 5 – 7 PM Durant Centennial Clock Dedication Blue River Books 311 W. Main Durant, Oklahoma Dec. 1, 11 AM - |
| In this issue: Interview with Amy D. Shojai Writing Tips Up Coming Events |
My visit with Amy Shojai
Amy D. Shojai holds extensive credentials. She
also exhibits an enormous quantity of energy.
Allow me to give some facts about this author
whose personality reminds me of one of her cats:
lovable and sleek.
AMY D. SHOJAI, CABC
Certified Animal Behavior Consultant
Sherman, Texas
www.shojai.com
Columnist: CatChow.com, Sergeants.com, P'ETiquette
Author 22 cat and dog care books
***************************************
Chicken Soup for the Dog (Cat) Lover's Soul
PETiQuette: Solving Multipet Behavior Problems
The First-Aid Companion for Dogs & Cats
Complete Care: For Your Aging Cat, Dog, Kitten
I first met this expert on animals at the OWFI (Oklahoma Writers Federation Inc.)
2006 writing convention, and I feel as if I've known her forever. She's lively,
friendly, and knowledgeable. She finally slowed down enough to answer some
questions, when I caught up with her at the OWFI board meeting.
Following her around the hotel I fired questions at her, while trying to hobble fast
enough that she didn't disappear. My first question concerned her life to date.
"I grew up in northern Indiana, the oldest of three children." She laughed. "My
twin brother wanted to be the writer. My interest ran more toward the arts,
performance, and pets. One grandmother lived on a farm in Kentucky, with lots of
chickens, cows, a horse, many dogs -- I grew up around dogs. A favorite pastime was
interacting with all the critters." She grinned. "I never played with dolls, only
stuffed animals, and my mom other told her friends, 'When Amy grows up she
won't have babies -- she'll have puppy dogs and kitty cats.' Mom was right!:
"So you like fuzzy things, apparently." I glanced at my notes. "What about your
education? How did your educational and family background affect your writing?"
"Hmnn . . . Elementary school, junior high, high school, Goshen College (B.A.
double major in communication and music). Both of my parents were teachers, and
Amy D. Shojai holds extensive credentials. She
also exhibits an enormous quantity of energy.
Allow me to give some facts about this author
whose personality reminds me of one of her cats:
lovable and sleek.
AMY D. SHOJAI, CABC
Certified Animal Behavior Consultant
Sherman, Texas
www.shojai.com
Columnist: CatChow.com, Sergeants.com, P'ETiquette
Author 22 cat and dog care books
***************************************
Chicken Soup for the Dog (Cat) Lover's Soul
PETiQuette: Solving Multipet Behavior Problems
The First-Aid Companion for Dogs & Cats
Complete Care: For Your Aging Cat, Dog, Kitten
I first met this expert on animals at the OWFI (Oklahoma Writers Federation Inc.)
2006 writing convention, and I feel as if I've known her forever. She's lively,
friendly, and knowledgeable. She finally slowed down enough to answer some
questions, when I caught up with her at the OWFI board meeting.
Following her around the hotel I fired questions at her, while trying to hobble fast
enough that she didn't disappear. My first question concerned her life to date.
"I grew up in northern Indiana, the oldest of three children." She laughed. "My
twin brother wanted to be the writer. My interest ran more toward the arts,
performance, and pets. One grandmother lived on a farm in Kentucky, with lots of
chickens, cows, a horse, many dogs -- I grew up around dogs. A favorite pastime was
interacting with all the critters." She grinned. "I never played with dolls, only
stuffed animals, and my mom other told her friends, 'When Amy grows up she
won't have babies -- she'll have puppy dogs and kitty cats.' Mom was right!:
"So you like fuzzy things, apparently." I glanced at my notes. "What about your
education? How did your educational and family background affect your writing?"
"Hmnn . . . Elementary school, junior high, high school, Goshen College (B.A.
double major in communication and music). Both of my parents were teachers, and
| Amy Shojai and friend |
I suppose helped foster an interest in learning. My dad taught music but also is an artist, and I’ve always had a passion
for both. My piano lessons began in 2nd grade, cello lessons came in 5th grade and my chief instrument -- voice --
blossomed with lessons in my teens. Music helps me with the rhythm and cadence of language while an artist’s eye can
help with the details of the word-pictures a writer paints. Music, art, and writing represent unique aspects of the same
creative Muse --I can’t separate them."
"I can understand that," I injected. "I've enjoyed music, art, and language over the years, too. Sorry, please continue."
Amy gave one of her tinkly laughs. "Where was I? Oh, I attended a Mennonite college, and as part of that education, I
spent part of one year in Haiti -- this was a requirement of the school, to learn about a third-world country. Our school
also included a good-size population of international students from all over the world. This perhaps helped me
understand that the 'obvious' story often has many more sides, depending on your viewpoint. As a journalist, it's vital
not only to know what questions to ask, but to try to empathize and fairly present the various viewpoints of a story."
"What do you do in your 'leisure' time?" I asked as we sat across from each other at a table in the restaurant.
"I sing and play cello and piano in my church. I also perform (as a singer, cellist, actor) on stage, as well as coaching
high school students in performance. My performance experience prepared me for media work (radio, TV, corporate
spokesperson) that has become part of my career. I also enjoy creating stained glass lamp shades and panels, wood
carving, and reading reading reading! More than anything, though, I adore spending time with my pets and human
family." Amy sipped from a glass of water a hotel personnel placed on the table.
"What keeps you writing? With all your interests and activities, how did you start writing?" I poised my pen over my
note pad.
"I’m an accidental writer, and never planned on a career writing. I dreamed of performing on stage. But writing offered
a creative outlet and I didn’t have to leave home. In addition, after working as a veterinary technician and sharing some
of these stories with my family, my mom encouraged me to write them down. So it’s her fault!
"The cats and dogs keep me writing. They have no voice. I know that God put me on this earth to help them. It is what
I was born to do. And I’ve been blessed to know that my writing has, in some small way, made a positive difference in
their lives, and of the people who love them."
I glanced at my list of questions again. "I'm sure you're always asked this, but I really want to know: What is your
most recent book, and what inspired you to write it?"
"PETiQuette: Solving Behavior Problems in Your Multipet Household. More than 30 percent of US Households share their
lives with more than one pet. Multiple cats, multiple dogs, or dogs and cats together CAN live together peaceably. But
owners need to know how to prevent --and solve --the bumpy roads on the path to a peaceable kingdom. The book offers
a map for pet owners."
"Do you have a particular writing process or technique that you use, if so, what?" I so enjoyed listening to Amy talk.
She's never still and punctuates everything with hand and arm movements.
"Research research research! And read read read."
I laughed. "I think you really mean you research and read, correct? How do you feel when you complete a book?"
Amy slumped in her chair. "Relieved! Elated. Exhausted. Grateful. And hopeful it will reach pet lovers and make a
difference."
"What are your writing achievements and goals?"
"Hmm ... Achievements--have written and had published 22 nonfiction pet care titles, with 700,000+ in print. Several of
the books have been recognized with prestigious awards. I’ve been recognized as an expert in my field --wow! Who’da
thunk it?
"Goals --keep on writing, continue publishing, improve and save pet lives. Keep myself entertained and inspired. Mentor
newer writers. Make a difference."
I threw her a loaded question. "Are you a member of any writing groups? If so, how do they benefit you and your
writing?
She raised one eyebrow before answering me as if I knew nothing. "I’m a longtime member of Dog Writers Association
of America (www.DWAA.org); a founder and president emeritus of Cat Writers’ Association, Inc (www.catwriters.org);
and the current president and longtime member of Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc (www.owfi.org)
"DWAA and CWA offer networking opportunities, as well as award recognition, from colleagues who write about the
same topics as I. OWFI also provides networking and educational opportunities. I’ve obtained multiple writing
assignments, and several book deals, as a result of attending CWA and OWFI conferences and entering CWA and
DWAA contests. I found my agent at the OWFI conference, and together we sold eleven books."
"You're successful by any measure and are know for helping other writers. What advice would you have for a new
author"?
Amy thought a moment. "Write every day. Develop a thick skin and don’t take “rejection” personally. Treat writing
like a business, and respect yourself and your work. Claim the title “WRITER” and live the dream. You can’t catch the
brass ring unless you dream it first."
I glanced at my pile of notes. "We're actually at the end of my list. Where do you see yourself in ten years?"
"Collecting royalties, working on the next book, and petting my critters while singing and playing show tunes in my
stained glass retreat."
"That sounds like a great future, Amy." I stood and hugged the pet expert. "Thank you for joining me and for sharing
your views and accomplishments with us."
for both. My piano lessons began in 2nd grade, cello lessons came in 5th grade and my chief instrument -- voice --
blossomed with lessons in my teens. Music helps me with the rhythm and cadence of language while an artist’s eye can
help with the details of the word-pictures a writer paints. Music, art, and writing represent unique aspects of the same
creative Muse --I can’t separate them."
"I can understand that," I injected. "I've enjoyed music, art, and language over the years, too. Sorry, please continue."
Amy gave one of her tinkly laughs. "Where was I? Oh, I attended a Mennonite college, and as part of that education, I
spent part of one year in Haiti -- this was a requirement of the school, to learn about a third-world country. Our school
also included a good-size population of international students from all over the world. This perhaps helped me
understand that the 'obvious' story often has many more sides, depending on your viewpoint. As a journalist, it's vital
not only to know what questions to ask, but to try to empathize and fairly present the various viewpoints of a story."
"What do you do in your 'leisure' time?" I asked as we sat across from each other at a table in the restaurant.
"I sing and play cello and piano in my church. I also perform (as a singer, cellist, actor) on stage, as well as coaching
high school students in performance. My performance experience prepared me for media work (radio, TV, corporate
spokesperson) that has become part of my career. I also enjoy creating stained glass lamp shades and panels, wood
carving, and reading reading reading! More than anything, though, I adore spending time with my pets and human
family." Amy sipped from a glass of water a hotel personnel placed on the table.
"What keeps you writing? With all your interests and activities, how did you start writing?" I poised my pen over my
note pad.
"I’m an accidental writer, and never planned on a career writing. I dreamed of performing on stage. But writing offered
a creative outlet and I didn’t have to leave home. In addition, after working as a veterinary technician and sharing some
of these stories with my family, my mom encouraged me to write them down. So it’s her fault!
"The cats and dogs keep me writing. They have no voice. I know that God put me on this earth to help them. It is what
I was born to do. And I’ve been blessed to know that my writing has, in some small way, made a positive difference in
their lives, and of the people who love them."
I glanced at my list of questions again. "I'm sure you're always asked this, but I really want to know: What is your
most recent book, and what inspired you to write it?"
"PETiQuette: Solving Behavior Problems in Your Multipet Household. More than 30 percent of US Households share their
lives with more than one pet. Multiple cats, multiple dogs, or dogs and cats together CAN live together peaceably. But
owners need to know how to prevent --and solve --the bumpy roads on the path to a peaceable kingdom. The book offers
a map for pet owners."
"Do you have a particular writing process or technique that you use, if so, what?" I so enjoyed listening to Amy talk.
She's never still and punctuates everything with hand and arm movements.
"Research research research! And read read read."
I laughed. "I think you really mean you research and read, correct? How do you feel when you complete a book?"
Amy slumped in her chair. "Relieved! Elated. Exhausted. Grateful. And hopeful it will reach pet lovers and make a
difference."
"What are your writing achievements and goals?"
"Hmm ... Achievements--have written and had published 22 nonfiction pet care titles, with 700,000+ in print. Several of
the books have been recognized with prestigious awards. I’ve been recognized as an expert in my field --wow! Who’da
thunk it?
"Goals --keep on writing, continue publishing, improve and save pet lives. Keep myself entertained and inspired. Mentor
newer writers. Make a difference."
I threw her a loaded question. "Are you a member of any writing groups? If so, how do they benefit you and your
writing?
She raised one eyebrow before answering me as if I knew nothing. "I’m a longtime member of Dog Writers Association
of America (www.DWAA.org); a founder and president emeritus of Cat Writers’ Association, Inc (www.catwriters.org);
and the current president and longtime member of Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc (www.owfi.org)
"DWAA and CWA offer networking opportunities, as well as award recognition, from colleagues who write about the
same topics as I. OWFI also provides networking and educational opportunities. I’ve obtained multiple writing
assignments, and several book deals, as a result of attending CWA and OWFI conferences and entering CWA and
DWAA contests. I found my agent at the OWFI conference, and together we sold eleven books."
"You're successful by any measure and are know for helping other writers. What advice would you have for a new
author"?
Amy thought a moment. "Write every day. Develop a thick skin and don’t take “rejection” personally. Treat writing
like a business, and respect yourself and your work. Claim the title “WRITER” and live the dream. You can’t catch the
brass ring unless you dream it first."
I glanced at my pile of notes. "We're actually at the end of my list. Where do you see yourself in ten years?"
"Collecting royalties, working on the next book, and petting my critters while singing and playing show tunes in my
stained glass retreat."
"That sounds like a great future, Amy." I stood and hugged the pet expert. "Thank you for joining me and for sharing
your views and accomplishments with us."
Writing Tip
- Read
The first step toward good writing, even while learning
the basics of writing, is to read, read, and read some
more. The more one reads, the more a writer can tell
what is good and what isn't. If we can't recognize bad
writing from good writing, how can we tell what we
write: junk or masterpieces?
When I took composition classes in college, I often
became frustrated with all the reading I had to do, story
after story after story, many times thousands of pages
per assignment. Yet as we discussed the stories and
what made them interesting or what didn’t, I was
learning how to write. Even today, as I read and
review, I learn more about what makes a good story
and what doesn’t.
I used the reading, discussion, and then writing idea
when I taught, too. I tried to highlight one or two
concepts per story, then had the students write
something using those concepts and any others we had
already covered. First, though came reading and
reading and reading.
As I read the September, 2005, issue of The Writer, I
discovered an article by Erika Dreifus titled “Learning
short-story writing by example.” She agrees with my
university professors and me: “We learn by reading
closely and reading as writers – attending to the ways
others employ the elements of fiction: setting, plot,
character, theme, and so on.”
So where can a person find short stories to study, ones
that will help learn correct story writing? Of course
books of short stories are found in all book stores. In
fact Holly Jahangiri and I have a collection of short
stories for sale at Amazon.com or Barnes and Nobles.
Plus many bookstores connected to colleges have
anthologies for sale. If someone couldn’t afford to buy
an anthology or collection, used bookstores or libraries
carry them.
Web sites can be found that have stories and advice for
writers. The Internet is an interesting and impressive
source. Some magazines still publish short stories.
Searching in cyber space will locate many that do.
The best help found in reading, though, is to read well-
written short stories, and read, read, read.
- Read
The first step toward good writing, even while learning
the basics of writing, is to read, read, and read some
more. The more one reads, the more a writer can tell
what is good and what isn't. If we can't recognize bad
writing from good writing, how can we tell what we
write: junk or masterpieces?
When I took composition classes in college, I often
became frustrated with all the reading I had to do, story
after story after story, many times thousands of pages
per assignment. Yet as we discussed the stories and
what made them interesting or what didn’t, I was
learning how to write. Even today, as I read and
review, I learn more about what makes a good story
and what doesn’t.
I used the reading, discussion, and then writing idea
when I taught, too. I tried to highlight one or two
concepts per story, then had the students write
something using those concepts and any others we had
already covered. First, though came reading and
reading and reading.
As I read the September, 2005, issue of The Writer, I
discovered an article by Erika Dreifus titled “Learning
short-story writing by example.” She agrees with my
university professors and me: “We learn by reading
closely and reading as writers – attending to the ways
others employ the elements of fiction: setting, plot,
character, theme, and so on.”
So where can a person find short stories to study, ones
that will help learn correct story writing? Of course
books of short stories are found in all book stores. In
fact Holly Jahangiri and I have a collection of short
stories for sale at Amazon.com or Barnes and Nobles.
Plus many bookstores connected to colleges have
anthologies for sale. If someone couldn’t afford to buy
an anthology or collection, used bookstores or libraries
carry them.
Web sites can be found that have stories and advice for
writers. The Internet is an interesting and impressive
source. Some magazines still publish short stories.
Searching in cyber space will locate many that do.
The best help found in reading, though, is to read well-
written short stories, and read, read, read.
Body Language -
A Writer's Secret Weapon
We've all heard "show, don't tell". It's pretty much
the first piece of advice a new writer hears. But how
best to make that truism come to life?
One way is to give your characters a vivid body
language. How we move, manipulate our facial
muscles, even cross our legs tells a great deal about
our inner dialogue. As a writer, the more you
understand about body language, the more you can
avoid telling, and really begin showing.
Here's an example:
Emma didn't trust Martin. She thought he was a
liar. When he told her that he wasn't responsible for
the broken glass, she knew he wasn't telling the
truth.
Now, here's the same exchange with body language
incorporated:
Martin's eyes darted around. He couldn't look
Emma in the face. "I didn't break that glass", he
muttered. Emma watched him silently. Martin
could only stare at the ground, slowly making a
circle in the dirt with the tip of his sneaker.
We all have what poker players refer to as "tells".
Give your characters their own "tells," and they'll
become more vivid and memorable, and your writing
will grow sharper.
The more believable characters are, the better the
writing. Add ingredients such as a strong plot,
conflict, motivation for actions, and well-written
dialogue, and a story or novel is in the writing oven.
The final suggestions: do not over do or under do
the batter in order to have a successful manuscript.
That's the news and tips for this
month. Join me again in December.
A Writer's Secret Weapon
We've all heard "show, don't tell". It's pretty much
the first piece of advice a new writer hears. But how
best to make that truism come to life?
One way is to give your characters a vivid body
language. How we move, manipulate our facial
muscles, even cross our legs tells a great deal about
our inner dialogue. As a writer, the more you
understand about body language, the more you can
avoid telling, and really begin showing.
Here's an example:
Emma didn't trust Martin. She thought he was a
liar. When he told her that he wasn't responsible for
the broken glass, she knew he wasn't telling the
truth.
Now, here's the same exchange with body language
incorporated:
Martin's eyes darted around. He couldn't look
Emma in the face. "I didn't break that glass", he
muttered. Emma watched him silently. Martin
could only stare at the ground, slowly making a
circle in the dirt with the tip of his sneaker.
We all have what poker players refer to as "tells".
Give your characters their own "tells," and they'll
become more vivid and memorable, and your writing
will grow sharper.
The more believable characters are, the better the
writing. Add ingredients such as a strong plot,
conflict, motivation for actions, and well-written
dialogue, and a story or novel is in the writing oven.
The final suggestions: do not over do or under do
the batter in order to have a successful manuscript.
That's the news and tips for this
month. Join me again in December.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
| Happy Thanksgiving |