Norah Colvin

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Category: Blogging

  • Jump on board the Congress of Rough Writers Round the World Tour

    Jump on board the Congress of Rough Writers Round the World Tour

    Do you remember the moment you fell in love–the moment the passion ignited, and you knew life would never be the same again?

    I remember the moment my love affair with flash fiction began. Like many love affairs, it took me by surprise, lifting me up with its power to seduce, challenge and excite in a whirlpool of emotions.

    That moment occurred exactly four years and one week ago when, on 12 March 2014, I published my response to the first flash fiction prompt posted by Charli Mills at the Carrot Ranch. Charli challenged writers to In 99 words (no more, no less) write the aftermath of an avalanche of any kind from any perspective.

    Flash fiction was new to me. I’d written short stories, children stories, poetry, songs, and educational books and resources, but never flash fiction. However, I do love a challenge and had been anticipating having a go at flash fiction after Charli’s announcement a few months prior.

    This is my response, my first ever attempt at flash fiction:

    Avalanche

    The trickle began; imperceptible, unheeded and ignored.

    Needing more attention, the volume swelled and quickened pace.

    Still no attention was forthcoming so the surge became more urgent and incessant in its plea.

    “Slow down! Stop me!”

    To no avail.

    The avalanche engulfed her.

    Heat flashed through her body, from feet straight to her head.

    Heart pounding loudly, “Let me out of here!” it pled.

    With reverberations magnified in each and every cell,

    the heady swirl became too much –

    she trembling choked. “I’m dying?”

    But no:

    B-r-e-a-t-h-e   s-l-o-w.

    B-r-e-a-t-h-e   d-e-e-p.

    R-e-l-a-x.

    S-o-o-t-h-e.

    B-r-e-a-t-h-e . . .

    The panic abates.

    I was just one of five to respond to that first prompt. Four of those writers, including me of course, are still regular visitors to the Carrot Ranch, are members of the Congress of Rough Writers, and are contributors to the Congress of Rough Writers Flash Fiction Anthology Vol 1. That’s pretty awesome, I think.

    Carrot Ranch Anthology with 5 star review

    Watch the trailer here:

    Over the years, the number of Congress members has grown to thirty-two and the number of participants in the Flash Fiction challenges swells to more than fifty some weeks.

    from little things big things grow

    What an amazing achievement: from small things, big things grow. Charli’s vision has not wavered from the outset. She held to her path through all manner of life’s storms. Battered but not beaten, she persisted when lesser mortals would have caved. She continues to welcome, encourage and support all writers with her vision to make literary arts accessible to all. With the publication of this anthology, a digital compilation of entries in the inaugural Flash Fiction Rodeo now in production, and Anthology Vol 2 in the pipeline, she shows what is possible through vision, determination and growth mindset.

    During the four years I have been participating in Charli’s challenges, I have learned a lot, not only about writing, but about life. The warmth and encouragement of the community of writers that have gathered around Charli is uplifting. The synergy and combined effect of all our stories, written and shared in a safe environment, raises us up together to walk on each other’s shoulders.

    In 2015, I wrote this about what I had learned from writing flash fiction. The learning continues with my own “yet’ mindset.

    Carrot Ranch anthology a brilliant idea

    About the Anthology

    Thirty writers began with 99 words and forged literary feats. Vol. 1 explores the literary art of flash fiction, beginning with the earliest compilations at Carrot Ranch and later pieces based on a new flash fiction prompt. This is not your typical anthology. It continues with longer stories extended from the original 99-word format and essays on how flash fiction supports memoir writing. Based on the experiences at Carrot Ranch, the concluding section of Vol. 1 offers tips to other groups interested in using the flash fiction format to build a literary community.

    Charli Mills, Series Editor, Publisher & Lead Buckaroo
    Sarah Brentyn, Editor & Contributor

    The Congress of the Rough Writers (contributors):

    Anthony Amore, Rhode Island, USA; Georgia Bell, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sacha Black, England, UK; Sarah Brentyn, USA; Norah Colvin, Brisbane, Qld, AU; Pete Fanning, Virginia, USA; C. Jai Ferry, Midwest, USA; Rebecca Glaessner, Melbourne, Vic, AU; Anne Goodwin, England, UK; Luccia Gray, Spain; Urszula Humienik, Poland; Ruchira Khanna, California, USA; Larry LaForge, Clemson, South Carolina, USA; Geoff Le Pard, Dulwich South London, UK; Jeanne Belisle Lombardo, Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Sherri Matthews, Somerset, UK; Allison Mills, Houghton, Michigan, USA; Charli Mills, Hancock, Michigan, USA; Paula Moyer, Lauderdale, Minnesota, USA; JulesPaige, Pennsylvania, USA; Amber Prince, North Texas, USA; Lisa Reiter, UK; Ann Edall-Robson, Airdrie, Alberta, Canada; Christina Rose, Oregon, USA; Roger Shipp, Virginia, USA; Kate Spencer, British Columbia, Canada; Sarah Unsicker, St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Irene Waters, Noosaville, Qld, AU; Sarrah J. Woods, Charleston, West Virginia, USA; Susan Zutautas, Orillia, Ontario, Canada.

    From the back cover:

    Witness great feats of literary art from daring writers around the world: stories crafted in 99 words.

    Flash fiction is a literary prompt, form, and tool that unites writers in wordplay. This creative craft hones a writer’s skills to write tight stories and explore longer works. It’s literary art in thoughtful bites, and the collective stories in this anthology provide an entertaining read for busy modern readers.

    Writers approach the prompts for their 99-word flash with creative diversity. Each of the twelve chapters in Part One features quick, thought-provoking flash fiction. Later sections include responses to a new flash fiction prompt, extended stories from the original 99-word format, and essays from memoir writers working in flash fiction. A final section includes tips on how to use flash fiction in classrooms, book clubs, and writers groups.

    CarrotRanch.com is an online literary community where writers can practice craft the way musicians jam. Vol. 1 includes the earliest writings by these global literary artists at Carrot Ranch. Just as Buffalo Bill Cody once showcased the world’s most daring riding, this anthology highlights the best literary feats from The Congress of Rough Writers.

    The Congress of Rough Writers Anthology Vol 1

    In case you haven’t got yours yet, here’s where to purchase

    The Congress of the Rough Writers Flash Fiction Anthology Vol. 1 is available through distribution in 17 countries worldwide. Buy direct from our Print on Demand distributor at Book Baby.

    Preferred Seller:

    The-Congress-of-Rough-Writers

    Also available from:

    Amazon Global Digital
    Amazon Global Print

    Be sure to check out other stops on the Congress of Rough Writers Tour Around the World.

    We have already visited

    Sherri Matthews UK

    Luccia Gray in Spain

    Sacha Black in the UK

    Ann Edall-Robson in Canada

    Anne Goodwin in the UK

    Geoff Le Pard in the UK

    Next week we will visit Irene Waters, another Australian. (You’ve travelled so far, we want you to make the most of your journey!)

    The tour continues through April and into May. Be sure to not miss a stop along the way.

     

    Thank you blog post

    Thank you for reading. I appreciate your feedback. Please share your thoughts.

  • Real Memoir Imaginary Flash And Not Your Typical Anthology

    Real Memoir Imaginary Flash And Not Your Typical Anthology

    Welcome to Sherri Matthew’s Summerhouse in the UK: this week’s stop on the Rough Writers Tour Around the World.
    Sherri discusses the role that flash fiction plays in her memoir writing in both an entertaining and informative way.
    After you read Sherri’s post, pack your bags and get ready to travel. Next stop will be with me: from the UK in the north to sunny Queensland in the south. See you then!

    Sherri Matthews's avatarA View From My Summerhouse

    Summerhouse in Spring (c) Sherri Matthews

    When I moved house last October, I said goodbye to my Summerhouse.  That is, to the wood and nails of it.  To the little wooden house painted blue , strung with pretty bunting and lights which no longer belongs to me.

    My Summerhouse wasn’t just my writing space; over the years, it was home to a nest of bumble bees in the ground below, several spiders and their cobwebs spun in dusty corners, and a hedgehog who took up residence at the back.

    I miss it, but I smile through my wistful nostalgia when I look at the photos, because I know that it is the virtual essence of the Summerhouse that remains.

    My Summerhouse is imaginary now, a virtual meeting place, but it is no less real, filled with you, my lovely people.  A community created by the footprints you leave with…

    View original post 1,031 more words

  • Raw Literature: Asperger’s, Voice and the Search for Identity

    Raw Literature: Asperger’s, Voice and the Search for Identity

    I’ve been reading a lot of posts about Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism lately. It’s a topic about which I need to increase my understanding. If you’re like me, you will find this post by Sherri Matthews helpful.

  • Can you think of five reasons for writing flash fiction? Sacha Black can!

    Can you think of five reasons for writing flash fiction? Sacha Black can!

     

    This week the Rough Writers Tour Around the World stops off in the UK with Sacha Black, YA sci-fi writer.

    Pop over to Sacha’s blog to find out how to harness the power of writing flash fiction to hone writing skills.

    Sacha also tells you how to purchase the Congress of Rough Writers Anthology Volume 1.

    Here is a list of March Tour dates:

    Carrot Ranch Rough Writers March Tour Dates

    Each one is bound to hold interesting insights into the writer’s process. Make sure you don’t miss any!

  • Rough Writer Tour stops in Canada with Ann Edall-Robson

    This week the Carrot Ranch Round the World Tour stops at Alberta in Canada with Ann Edall-Robson, celebrating Family Day, no less.

    Read how Ann became one of the Rough Writers and how writing flash fiction adds to her writing process.

    Find out what she writes about this beautiful little cottage.

    Thanks, Ann. It’s a pleasure to ride the Ranch with you.

    Salute to the Congress of Rough Writers Flash Fiction Anthology Vol 1

    Source: Ann Edall-Robson’s – Ann Edall-Robson

  • Every word counts #roughwriters #blogtour via @Annecdotist – annethology

    The Congress of Rough Writers Anthology 1

    Today my very own printed copy of the Congress of Rough writers’ Flash Fiction Anthology Vol 1, edited by Charli Mills, arrived in the post. How exciting! Have you got yours yet?

    Anne Goodwin gives you all the details for purchasing in her contribution to the Rough Writer Tour Around the World.

    Carrot ranch tour

    Read Anne’s post to find out how she came to be one of the Rough Writers.: Every word counts #roughwriters #blogtour via @Annecdotist – annethology

  • The Congress of Rough Writers Flash Fiction Anthology Vol. 1 or Flash Fiction: My (Small) Part In Its The Journey. #Carrotranch #congressofroughwriters #anthology

    Carrot ranch tour

    I am so excited to be in the company of many wonderful writers in this first anthology of flash fiction by Rough Writers at the Carrot Ranch. Geoff Le Pard is one of those writers and kicks off the promotional Around the World Blog tour. Hop on board to meet others of the talented writers and find out to purchase your own copy of the book.

  • Watching ink dry

    Watching ink dry

    Sometimes we think change occurs at an incredible pace. Other times it’s too slow–like watching paint dry. But what about watching ink dry?

    This week at the Carrot Ranch, Charli Mills challenged writers to In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about wet ink. It can be artistic, writerly or something completely off-the-wall. Go where the prompt leads.

    Where would I go? To school–where else?

    In my first year of school we wrote on slates (no, not on stone tablets as my children may tease).

    In subsequent years, we wrote in exercise books and special handwriting books with lead pencils (which contain graphite rather than lead).

    As we moved up through the grades, we still used pencils for most work, but were also introduced to pens with nibs which we dipped into inkwells recessed in our desks for handwriting or “copybook” lessons. It was important to get just the right amount of ink on the nib–too little and the nib would scratch but not sufficiently to make a readable mark–too much and the ink would run, blot and smudge.

    In upper primary, we graduated to fountain pens for our copybook work. It was just as difficult to get the right amount of ink, even with the cartridge variety. Should we err and make a blot on our copybook, it was treated as a most serious offence. Luckily, our trusty blotting paper was at the ready to soak up any excess. We always had to begin writing at the top and continue down the page. There was no going back and inserting or altering something at the top, unless we were absolutely certain the ink was dry, lest we smudge the writing with our hand.

    Although ball point pens, commonly called biros in my circles, had been invented–as early as 1888 according to this history, would you believe–we were not allowed to use them in school for fear our handwriting skills would deteriorate. They had their own set of ink issues too–some would fail to write, other would supply too much thick ink. Others would leave ink all over hands, or leak in pockets or bags.

    Over the years, ballpoint pens improved in quality and have now replaced dip nib pens except for specialist writing, and fountain pens are considered more a luxury item. Now the concern is that the use of digital devices; such as, computers, tablets and phones will have a harmful effect upon children’s handwriting skills. I wonder were there similar concerns when papyrus replaced stone tablets; and what those concerns will be in the future, should handwriting have a future.

    I didn’t wish to “blot my copybook” by responding to Charli’s prompt with a story unrelated to education or children. I hope you enjoy it.

    A blot on whose copybook?

    Ever so carefully, she dipped the nib in and out of the inkwell. Her tongue protruded, guiding the pen as she copied the black squiggly lines dancing across the page.

    “Start at the top. Go across; then down. Lift, dip…,“ the teacher droned.

    “Start at the top!” The cane stung her knuckles, sending the nib skidding across the page.

    “Now look what you’ve done!” The teacher grasped the book and held it aloft, sending ink in rivulets down the page. Her thumb intercepted one, smearing another opportunity for humiliation across the page.

    “Girls, this is what not to do!”

    Thank you blog post

    Thank you for reading. I appreciate your feedback. Please share your thoughts.

  • That’s what friends are for

    At this time of year, minds and hearts turn to friends and family, and contemplations of what we can do to make the world a better place. When we think of global events, we may feel overwhelmed, wondering what possible effect our actions could have. But when we focus on our own circle, any positive difference we make can effect changes of which we may never be aware. That’s the ripple effect, and that’s what friends are for.

    I belong to a very supportive online community whose encouragement helps to keep me going.

    With my focus on education, particularly early childhood education, and their work mostly targeting adult audiences, I struggle to find ways of supporting them and their creative pursuits during the year, other than the usual shares on Twitter and Facebook.

    However, come Christmas time, what’s to stop me doing a little more?

    love of reading to young children in early childhood education

    In a recent readilearn post, I acknowledged authors and illustrators of children’s literature whom I was fortunate enough to interview throughout the year. You can read that post here. I was also delighted to be invited by Christy Birmingham to write a guest post about them for her blog When Women Inspire.

    SMAG Society of Mutual Admiration and Gratitude

    In this post, I acknowledge and promote recent works published by my SMAG community; lovely people who support me both here and over at readilearn. SMAG is an acronym for Society of Mutual Appreciation and Gratitude. The community is open to anyone. All that is required is friendship. If you’d like to add the badge to your blog, I’d be honoured. If you’re not sure how to do so, you can find instructions here.

    I know I won’t catch all my SMAGgers, but I’ll do my best. If I miss you, I apologise. Please add your details in the comments.

    I hope as you read through my list your will find some books to add to your own collection or to gift to another for Christmas, or holiday, or anytime reading.

    Carrot Ranch

    My first acknowledgement goes to Charli Mills of the Carrot Ranch Literary Community.

    Participation in the Carrot Ranch weekly flash fiction challenges inspires many of the posts shared here. The support of Charli, Lead Buckaroo, and the team of Rough Writers has been a constant source of encouragement.

    Congress of Rough Writers Anthology Vol 1

    While we eagerly await the publication of Charli’s two novels-in-progress, she has compiled an anthology of flash fiction submitted to the weekly prompts. The Congress of Rough Writers Flash Fiction Anthology Volume 1 will be available soon. I am rather delighted to say that some of my writing features in the Anthology. (Check out books by other Rough Writers featured on the Books page.)

    Anne Goodwin

    Anne Goodwin's books

    I very much enjoyed Anne Goodwin’s debut novel Sugar and Snails, and was not disappointed with her second novel Underneath, released earlier this year. Anne is also a prolific writer of short stories, many of which are available from her website. An anthology (Annethology) will be available soon. I’ve yet to read a story of Anne’s I didn’t like.

    Sarah Brentyn

    Sarah Brentyn's books

    Sarah is a micro-fiction expert. She packs a whole lot of story into just a few words. I described her first book Hinting at Shadows as a box of chocolates – bite-sized pieces of dark delight; once you’ve tasted you can’t stop! Her second anthology On the Edge of a Raindrop, just released, holds equal promise.

    Robbie Cheadle

    Robbie Cheadle's books

    If you haven’t yet checked out Robbie Cheadle’s Sir Chocolate Books you really must. Robbie’s unique style of illustrating her stories with fondant creations will make your mouth water.

    The Sir Chocolate Books series of stories were written by Robbie and her son Michael. The rhyming stories are supplemented by the inclusion of recipes and links to YouTube videos.

    Debby Gies

    Debby Gies books

    Debby Gies writes memoir; stories from her life and her heart; stories that will resonate with us, inspire us, make us laugh, and make us cry. When I read Have Bags Will Travel, I couldn’t believe how much of my experience she was sharing.

    Debby has numerous books in her collection, including her new release Twenty Years: After “I Do”. I’m sure you’ll find at least one to take your fancy.

    Christy Birmingham

    Christy Birmingham Versions of the Self

    Christy Birmingham’s book of poems Versions of the Self is an exploration of the emotions experienced in relationships and the personal growth that occurs through them.

    D. Avery

    D. Avery Chicken Shift For the Girls

    D. Avery’s books of poems make excellent reading. Chicken Shift combines philosophy, humour and utter nonsense by contemplating answers to the old riddle “Why did the chicken cross the road?” Who would have thought there could be so many responses? – Only D.

    For the girls explores responses to a diagnosis of breast cancer and what it means personally and to others. It’s a must read for anyone whose life has been touched by cancer. There are few of  us who haven’t supported a loved one as they work through their emotional, as well as physical, response.

    Sally Cronin

    Sally Cronin's books

    Sally Cronin is a prolific author of both fiction and non-fiction. Her most recent publication What’s in a Name? Stories of Life and Romance Volume 2 is a book of short stories in which she explores why we find the names of some people memorable.

    Sally is also an amazing support for writers and all things writing. I was delighted to be recently featured in her series Posts from my Archives here and here. Thank you, Sally.

    Susan Scott

    Susan Scott Aging and Becoming

    This year Susan Scott published Aging and Becoming – A Reflective Inquiry, which she cowrote with Susan E. Schwartz. The Susans reflect on life and its effects on the physical, mental and emotional experience as we age. Throughout the year, Susan shared excerpts on her lovely Garden of Eden blog.

    Not just books

    Pauline King has many lovely crafts and artworks for sale in her Contented Crafter’s Gift Shop.

    Robin Etter-Cleave plays Notes from Squire Street on her melodic alto flute.

    For an early childhood teacher, a readilearn subscription makes a thoughtful gift. Contact me for details.

    For other suggestions, check out last year’s list here.

    Apologies again if I have missed your current publications. Please know that each of you is greatly appreciated. The purpose of writing is to connect with readers. If you “like” or share a post, that is wonderful. If you leave a comment and engage in conversation, that is even better still. Thank you.

    Thank you for reading. I appreciate your feedback. Please share your thoughts.

  • Five of the best

    Children's books tag

    Warning! I’ve been tagged. It can be contagious.

    Kids’ Storyworld tagged me and asked me to join in. I don’t normally do this but I’m making an exception. How could I not – it’s about children’s books.

    I’m required to nominate my top five children’s books, then nominate another five people to join in!

    Rules:

    1. Thank whoever’s nominated you and share their blog link.
    2. Let us know your top 5 children’s books
    3. Nominate 5 people to do the same
    4. Let your nominees know you nominated them

    Right, let’s get to it.

    1. Thank you, Kids’ Storyworld.
    2. Top 5 children’s books. Now this is going to be hard. Only five! But you know, when I interview authors and illustrators for the readilearn interview series, I ask them for just one favourite. Five has to be easier, right; so, I can’t complain.

    These are five of my favourite children’s books

    The BFG by Roald Dahl

    The BFG by Roald Dahl – I love the humour, and love to read it aloud to children. It is such fun.

    The Iron Man Ted Hughes

    The Iron Man by Ted Hughes – I love the poetry of language and the way the story builds. It is also a perfect read aloud.

    Whoever You Are Mem Fox

    Whoever You Are by Mem Fox – I love the message: although we are diverse we share a common humanity.

    One Less Fish Kim Michelle Toft

    One Less Fish by Kim Michelle Toft – This was the first of Kim’s books I read. I love the message about protecting the natural environment and adore her silk paintings that illustrate the book.

    Heidi Johanna SpyriInside Heidi by Johanna Spyri

    Heidi by Johanna Spyri – I received a beautiful illustrated edition of this book from Santa (inscribed by my Mum) when I was nine years old. I remember waking up to find it at the foot of my bed and watching the title and cover picture appear as day dawned. I read and re-read it. I still own it. It has to be on my list, doesn’t it?

    Do I really have to stop at five?

    1. Nominating five people to share their favourite five children’s books is fairly easy. I know many who write about children’s books, though some of them have already been nominated, so I can’t nominate them again.

    You are invited

    Maybe you don’t write about children’s books but would like to share your favourites anyway. Please consider this invitation inclusion. If you would like to join in, please do.

    Alternatively, if you are one of the people I nominate, and you’d rather not join in, or have already been nominated, it’s okay to decline.

    Here are my five:

    Robbie Cheadle blogs at Robbie’s Inspiration and writes the Sir Chocolate Books. I wonder if she’ll nominate her own books. Why not?

    Patricia Tilton blogs at Children’s Books Heal where she reviews picture books that she believes will help children through tough times. Patricia reads so widely, I think she’ll have more trouble than I with this one. (Sorry, Patricia.)

    Vanessa Ryan blogs at Educate.Empower and especially promotes books about the environment and sustainability. I wonder if Vanessa’s choices will reflect those interests.

    Jennie Fitskee blogs at A Teacher’s Reflections with inspirational posts about educating young children. She often shares books she reads aloud with her little ones. What will she share with us?

    Mary Wade blogs at HonorsGradU sharing a lot of good sense and great ideas for teachers and parents. I’m interested to see what will influence her book choices.

    1. I’ll definitely let the nominees know they’ve been tagged.

    Thank you for reading. I appreciate your feedback. Please share your thoughts.