…I’ve got stories to tell. …I have fears and fantasies to explore. …It’s something that’s all my own. …I have to. …My imagination needs an outlet. …It’s the one hobby I’ve had since I was a little kid. …It’s the most efficient way to clear my mind. …Some teachers encouraged me along the way. …My — Read More
Author: Kim Hooper
What books changed your life?
Earlier today, I saw HuffPost Books post that question on Facebook, with several interesting (and funny) responses. I gave this a little thought and decided that these 5 books have changed my life more than any others: 1. The Witches by Roald Dahl I was OBSESSED with this book (and most of his books) when — Read More
Querying literary agents
As I’ve been working on my new novel, I’ve had that nagging thought creep into my mind: What will I do when I’m done? (By “done,” I mean “after I have read and re-read it a hundred times and edited it to death.”) I have a few connections that may be able to help me — Read More
Writers and their ailments
You probably thought this post would be about something like the anguish of writer’s block. But, no. I’m talking about actual ailments. Dr. John J. Ross of Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital wrote a book called Shakespeare’s Tremor and Orwell’s Cough: The Medical Lives of Famous Writers. It’s a fascinating look at how diseases and — Read More
Why it’s good to write when you’re busy
I used to daydream of a writing life that was consumed with just that–writing. I’d have no distractions or other obligations. This hilarious, idealistic goal fell by the wayside when I realized I have to make money, sustain relationships, that kind of thing. And let’s not forget the endless list of errands (and I don’t — Read More
Don’t listen to Philip Roth.
Have you heard this story yet? In short: Julian Tepper just published his novel, Balls. He decided to approach Philip Roth, a regular at the Jewish deli where he worked, to tell him of this success and offer him a copy of the book (though Roth has said he doesn’t read fiction anymore). After complimenting — Read More
Psst–I’m writing a novel.
I debated whether or not to admit this. I know I’m welcoming questions like, “How’s that novel going?” and “Are you finished yet?” and “When do I get to read it?” But, then again, maybe it’s good for me to have a little pressure. (Who else still loves this Family Guy clip?) I won’t talk — Read More
James Patterson: savvy bestseller or total sellout?
I have to admit I’ve never read a James Patterson novel. I think it’s because there are TV commercials promoting them, and they’re all over airports. The snob in me thinks I’m too good for that. But, c’mon, I have to respect the fact that the man has created an empire–an empire–with his writing. Anyone — Read More
Advice to young writers, from Jeffrey Eugenides
Jeffrey Eugenides is one of my newly-declared favorite writers. I love his style, his stories, his characters, everything. Books I read in the past couple years and already want to read again: Middlesex, The Marriage Plot, and Virgin Suicides. So, when I saw a column in The New Yorker featuring his advice for new writers, — Read More
Could you read a book a day in 2013?
I only ask because this guy did. And I think he’s crazy. Here’s what he, Jeff Ryan, had to say about his accomplishment (is that even the right word?), as published on Slate.com: Like many of you, I have a nagging problem: I’m not a heroin user. Nor am I a knuckle-cracker, a nail-biter, or — Read More