I used to think world building just pertained to creating a science fiction or fantasy world. And although it is generally associated with those genres, all novelists must create believable, fictional worlds in which reader immerses themselves. For example, even though Half-Truths takes place in a "real" time and place-- Charlotte, NC in the 1950's--I must… Continue reading Free Expressions Takeaway Part III: Building Imaginary Worlds
On Wednesday there was an article in the Charlotte Observer about two men who work with the 48-story Duke Energy Center in downtown Charlotte. They are setting up light displays that will coordinate with a variety of holidays and special events. I thought this was a very appropriate cartoon in today’s paper by Kevin Siers. Technorati Tags:… Continue reading A Good Cartoon is Worth a Thousand Words
This column, written by Dannye Romine Powell, was in The Charlotte Observer on May 25. Since Powell eloquently stated what I believe, I am posting it here as a call to action to parents, teachers, and fellow writers. Following her column are the email addresses of the Charlotte City Council members and commissioners. Please take… Continue reading How you can Help the Public Libraries of Charlotte
On March 12, Fannie Flono wrote an article, "Can U.S. stop playing for 14th place?" She argued for the importance of national guidelines for a uniform set of standards in Math and English. She reports that, "Other nations already employ such standards and they have led to student performance." Flono concludes, "...when expectations and standards… Continue reading Two Points for the Charlotte Observer
Are you a closet limerick writer? Then the Charlotte Observer has a contest for you. Starting today until March 17, you can send your political or public policy related limerick to either limerick@charlotteobserver.com or to Mary Newsom, Charlotte Observer, PO Box 30308 Charlotte, NC 28230-0308. Weekly winners are posted online on Friday and a Grand… Continue reading Let the Limericks Begin!
On April 4th The Charlotte Observer ran an article with the headline, "Students score well in writing" reporting better than average scores for local eighth graders on the 2007 national writing test. When you look closely, the statistics aren't as exciting as the headline indicates. At closer inspection, you'll find that if all races and… Continue reading Is the cup half-empty or half-full?