Classic Style

How do you define a classic book? 

• Would you say that it must posess timeless qualities and appeal?
• That it addresses common problems or questions? 
• Or illustrates the human condition in universal ways? 
• Does it have a story that draws readers young and old, from past, present and future? 

Dictionary.com defines classic as of the first or highest quality, class, or rank, serving as a standard, model, or guide.

We'd probably agree that classics are so defined. That said though, I think the selection is subjective. What one likes another may not. I've read a few I wanted to pitch, and others I'd consider as new additions. How about you?

Makes one wonder what Mark Twain was thinking when he said,   

"'Classic'. A book which people praise and don't read."

Did he have specifics in mind? Would his opinion on the classics of his era be the same today?

A student recently asked me to recommend titles that illustrate good, classic language and style. The question comes from someone looking to improve fiction writing skills, and whose first language is not English. An admirable goal, as there are enough challenges writing in one's native language. What would you recommend?


In Other News

Congratulations to Heather Sunseri on the release of her YA book, Mindspeak! Wish you all the best, Heather! For more info, check it out on Amazon.

On February 18, L. Diane Wolfe joins us to talk about her new book, How to Publish and Promote Your Book Now! I'll be sharing my review of the book too.

I'm working on a few goodies to celebrate my fourth blogoversary in March. I'm thinking we need at least one giveaway. With chocolate of course. :)


So what do you think, do you agree with Mark Twain? Which books fall into your "classic" category? Are there any that you think are overrated?

Happy writing,
Karen

Great Plans?

So I had planned on a fabulous post today. You know the kind. Insightful. Witty. And of course, thought provoking.

But after a string of events this week, including losing an important document, I decided I had to ditch insightful and witty.

My back up plan? A recommendation.

I suggest that you run, don't walk, over to Heather Sunseri's blog Balance with Purpose for the Ultimate Gift Giving Guide for Writers. My personal favorite, the Starbucks gift card, is on the list, but you might be partial to the underwater writing slate. Or the mug - be sure and check out what it says.

I'll try for insightful and witty another day, okay? 

Which gift on Heather's list is your favorite?

Happy weekend,
Karen

Photo credit: Stock Exchange

The Meeting

The Person Behind the Blog

There's a bit of a theme here lately with our discussions about the benefits of blogging. Everyone agreed that meeting other writers ranked at or near the top of this list. How many of us have had the privilege of meeting another blogger in person?

Well, since you asked...I have! Heather Sunseri of Balance With Purpose and I recently got together. Since we live about an hour away from each other, we chose a spot in the middle that just happened to have a Starbucks. Wasn't that convenient? I know, I'll take any opportunity for a tall Strawberries and Creme Frappuccino.

We had a great visit, getting to know each other better and discussing blogging and writing. Books, articles, queries, conferences, writing classes, we covered a lot of ground. And it was all good. One of the best things about the visit, in my opinion anyway, was knowing that Heather 'gets' the writing life. Family and non writing friends can be very supportive, but only another writer 'gets' it like we do. After several hours we went our separate ways, but not without discussing getting together again. Thanks, Heather, it was a blessing to meet you.

Finish Strong

If you need some encouragement for the writing journey and can't meet with a blogger friend in person, check out Elana Johnson's guest post over at Sara Larson's blog. Elana candidly shares part of her writing adventures, including the rejection part, and tells us to Finish Strong. Quite inspiring.

So Tell Us!

Have you met other bloggers in person? At a conference? Over the phone? In a writing class? Share your experiences with us; we're all ears.

Happy weekend, and of course, happy writing!

Blessings,

Karen