Exciting Events Approaching

So many things are happening right now, I feel like a beautiful rainbow has opened up for me. I have a great event coming up it is a charity called Paws for Troops. The event is called Paws-atively Purr-fect Fund Raiser. It is to help both our veterans and animals heal from the trauma they had been through together. Its a great cause! I am very proud to help out. I donated my books and I will be signing at the event and my Mom donated one of her beautiful needlepoints. So exciting! For more information please check out http://www.pawsfortroops.com/

My new magazine is coming along very well. It is called The Jewel Box and here is the new logo. What do you think of it? My on-line magazine that celebrates the beauty and sentiment of family jewels. Pieces that you collected from your mother or grandmother. I am also going to focus on hot new pieces of all different types as well as historical pieces. It is a special, personal project of pure love. It will be premiering at the end of the month and I can't wait!!!

I have a new article in Working Writers it is about inspiration. One of my favorite subjects that I feel is deep and mysterious. Here is the link; http://workingwritersandbloggers.com/2011/06/16/inspiration/ . Let me know what you think?

I would like you all to welcome my new guest for my interview series author Cindy Jones. She wrote a wonderful book called My Jane Austen Summer; A Season in Mansfield Park. Welcome Cindy!

What was the first book you remember loving? Do you still own it?

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett was the first book to have special meaning for me. I read a copy from the school library in fourth grade and remember having to renew it at least once in order to finish it. Although I had been reading novels since second grade, especially Nancy Drew mysteries. The Secret Garden was different. The walled garden, the locked door, and the secret relationship provided my first experience with Gothic elements in literature and started my love affair with books.

What kind of books do you like to read? Do those books affect your writing?

I like to read books that have literary sensibilities and commercial tendencies. I crave complex characters and beautiful prose but need a tension-filled plot to go with them. And since I write the books I would like to read, my craving dictate my writing. My favorite contemporary book is The City of Your Final Destination by Peter Cameron. I also love Jane Austen, Henry James, Edith Wharton and Daphne Dumaurier.

Of all your work what is your personal favorite?

My personal favorite is whatever I happen t be working on at the moment. Writing a novel is an intense experience and I lose myself with the characters and the story of each project while I'm working on it, starting with the novel I wrote in the fifth grade, followed much later by the first novel I wrote as an adult (now buried in a drawer), to My Jane Austen Summer and my current work-in progress. I love them equally, especially during the time they need the most attention from me.

Do you have a favorite character that you created?

My favorite character of my creation is also the protagonist of my current work. Working closely over a period of years tends to make them come alive in my imagination so that sometimes I think I catch a glimpse of them in the real world, or I refer to them in conversation before realizing what I've said. A man drove a golf cart past a window where I was sitting one day. I remarked to myself, "There goes Henry," (the male lead in my current project), but I immediately realized my lapse. Another time I suggested we stay with my character while traveling in England, before realizing my mistake.

What is your favorite character from another writer?

I love Fanny Price, a bookish woman who becomes the heroine of her own story, Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. I identify with a person who creates an interior world through reading, and I admire her courage in taking such a strong stand against the villains in her story.

Do you prefer on genre to another?

I have a preference for complex and compelling fiction.

Do you like the feel of a book in your hands or do you prefer an electronic devise?

I was surprised to discover that I could lose myself in an electronic novel just as completely as I could in print. I enjoy the convenience of an e-reader and the rich feeling of an abundance of titles waiting for my attention. However, if I am reading carefully for research or discussion purposes. I like to have the printed version in my hands for ease of flipping back and forth through pages, highlighting and note taking. I'm sure the electronic reader will evolve to address this issue or I will adjust by necessity, but until such time, I mainly use my e-reader for pleasure and stick to print for work related reading.

Can you tell us about your current work-in-progress?

I'm working on a novel about contemporary women who trade places. The story involves travel, India, Romantic Poets, and the power of imagination.

****

Thank you so much for joining us and giving your take on reading and writing. I really appreciate it:)

If you have any questions or suggestions please email at rithebard@yahoo.com or on twitter @rithebard.

Chats with other writers are back:)

Yep, my interview is back, yeah!!!!! I am very excited to reveal new questions with new writers. It is really cool because I think it gives others a chance to look behind the curtain and see how writers do their thing. And that we all do it differently

Before I reveal the writer I interviewed, I thought I would share with you a couple of things I have been up to. I was offered an chance to chat with Working Writers about my book and how I write. Here is the link; http://workingwritersandbloggers.com/2011/03/22/interview-sherri-rabinowitz/ Let me know what you think:)

Also I was given an opportunity to write an article for SelfGrowth.com. I wrote an article about our reaction to bad times and compared it to the generation that handled WWII. Its called Are Movies a Reflection? The link is http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/are-movies-a-reflection.

I hope you enjoy it. I am going to be writing more articles and hopefully have more interviews so stayed tuned:)

Now to introduce my friend MJ Walker who is a fine writer. She wrote one of my favorite book's Black's Magic about a female James Bond.

What was the first book you remember loving? Do you still own it?

The first book I recall loving was Jane Eyre. It used to belong to my Mum when she was a girl so the book is at least fifty years old. I still have that very book and it's still my favourite novel of all time.

What kind of books do you like to read? Do those books have an affect on your own writing?

I tend to read non-fiction these days, informative books on history, the universe, the planets etc. I usually find a lot of inspiration and ideas from these.

Of all your works what is your personal favorite?

I think my personal favourite has to be Black's Magic and Addison Black and the Eye of the Bastet. I loved creating Addison Black and her world. I love writing action and weaving stories around historical fact.

Do you have a favorite character that you created?

I actually have two favourite characters. Firstly Addison Black because she has a lot of qualities I most admire, and she is who I'd most like to be like. And Tess from Snap Shots. This is because I put so much of myself into this character that I came to identify with more than any other.

What is your favorite character from another writer?

My favourite character from another writer again has to be Jane Eyre!!

Do you prefer one genre' to another?

Science Fiction, action and horror. These are my favourite genre's to read or watch for that matter. Though like most people I am a sucker for a good love story.

Do you like the feel of a book in your hands or do you prefer an electronic device?

I do prefer a book in my hands, but I am in two minds about electronic devices. I see the benefit and I believe that anyway to save paper, preserve trees is good, but I also don't like relying on electronic devices for everything. I'm very much a traditionalist and prefer simplistic ways of living and doing things myself.

Can you tell us about what your working on now?

I actually have two novels on the go at the moment. There is a third instalment of the Addison series and a new novel which is a mix between science fiction, horror and a love story. It's very different from what I've done before. Unfortunately work tends to get in the way a lot and after a full day at the office my mind is always too tired to write. I still manage to fill it with new works of poetry which will always be my first love.

Thank you for such a wonder re-introduction to my interview section. I really appreciate it:)

you can get MJ's books at; http://www.amazon.com/Blacks-Magic-M-J-Walker/dp/0975573926/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1301022722&sr=1-1

If you would like to tweet me @rithebard or join me on face book at; http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000918054745.

See you next time, When I will be able to reveal new interesting things coming up and another wonderful writer to interview.

virtual event part 3

I really wish my event was as glamorous as the pic above but I created this for myself on the E website and I couldn't resist sharing it with you all:) My event was fun. I had my reading and it went really well and I think that some people were interested in buying my book. I really hope to get another one really soon. I want to thank the people who came to cheer me on. I really appreciated it.

My next event is a new Virtual Event and you can picture me dressed like I am above since it is virtual. It will be at 3p on Saturday Feb. 26, 2011. I will talk about my event and my new book that I am working on. I have some other projects that are upcoming that I would love to share with you. I am so excited to do new things to connect with you and tell you what I am up too. If you would like to check out my books here are the links;http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/product.aspx?r=1&ISBN=143275811X

http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=BOOK&WRD=murder+inc+by+ri&box=murder%20inc%20by%20ri&pos=-1&ugrp=1

I am introducing a new movie blog. Those of you that know me are really aware that I love movies. I am very passionate about it and I hope you will read the new blog. Here is the link; http://rismovieblog.blogspot.com/ Please check it out and tell me what you think at;rithebard@yahoo.com or tweet me at @rithebard.

Here is my new interview with my good friend Lady J. She is a fellow bard and fan fiction writer and she has been gracious to answer my questions to help our fellow writers. So everyone welcome Lady J!

What is the best inspiration you ever had for a story?

I'd have to say my own life, such as it is. My life, in more then one instance has been compared to life in a concentration camp. Keeping that in mind, I have always had a very full fantasy life. This fantasy life mixed with the good, the bad and the ugly of real life has given birth to the wonderful tales that I have spun.

Is the best motivation for a character love or hate? Are heroes or villains more fun to write?

This is a tough question. My characters are a labor of love. Each character springs from parts of who I am and/or who I have always wanted to be. Sounds rather conceited but I personally believe that we all have so many layers of personality that the well of characters would never run dry.

Villains are more fun to write. Why may ask? Because as the heroes are part of myself so my villains are patterned after those persons who have brought pain and evil into my life. I'm a firm believer in Karma, but the one thing about karma is that she works in secret. With use of my pen... or keyboard...I can give these evil doers their just desserts and revel in their demise. In a story I can exact the justice I felt I was denied in life.

Do you use the same process for writing every time or does it vary?

I don't think I have a particular process per say. Usually what happens is I will have a scene that runs through my head over and over again I finally write it down. Or something will inspire me and I will start to write. Mostly I follow when my muse calls.

What is your favorite character that you wrote yourself? What is your favorite character from another writer?

Ummmm....that's a toughy, but I think the favorite character I have written is Becca in Spring Break. She's sassy, flirty, beautiful and brilliant. Things that I feel I am not. She is just fun to write. My muse is taking her to places that i never thought were possible.

I tend to love supporting characters more than the leads in stories. My favorite character is Tommy-the bumbling druggy shooter from the story Fate. I love him because he feels real. He's sad, pathetic and lovable at the same time.

Do you write in one style or several? Do you prefer one genre to another?

I write in several styles. My stories have never lent themselves to one particular style. I would have to say my favorite style is simple first person. First person, to me, feels like you are sitting in front of a fire telling a story to a good friend. It's the most comfortable style for me. I seem to write more romance then I ever thought I would. Is it my favorite? I enjoy writing romance but I'm really more into mysteries. I am currently starting to write crime and mystery. I hope it will turn out as well received as the romance has been. Of course the humor that sprinkles most of my stories will be infused into what ever I write. There is nothing better than making people laugh. Even better when you can laugh at yourself while making others smile.

Yeah! Events Galore!

Well its been a bit of dry spell but the virtual event was fun and I am going to have another one in February to celebrate my Birthday. Its the big 50, (I just made a sound my cat would recognize, a whimper.) So I want to have a big party with all my fans celebrating my life and writing. This event will be about both my books and fan fiction writing. So come with all your questions and I will be happy to answer them for you. I am still working on a date so I will get back to you on the date and time.







I am going to participate at an event at the Borders in Sherman Oaks. It's an open mike nite where writers read there works, I will be reading a selection of Fantasy Time Inc. If your in Los Angeles on Jan. 8. 2011 at 730pm please come and see me if you can.
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=189307661083946#!/events/create.php?eid=189307661083946






My new interview is with writer Braddon Mendelson and about his children's book,
He is an old friend and has written an adorable book called;
Have You Seen the Tickle Bug?



1. What is the best inspiration you ever had for a story?

I can't identify anything external that stimulates my creativity. At any given moment there are dozens of ideas rushing through my brain. Now most of them aren't very good, but suddenly one of them will come along and I'll think, "Wow! I have to write this." Nothing inspires me more than coming up with a good idea...



2. Is the best motivation for a character love or hate? Are heroes or villains more fun to write?

While love and hate can certainly motivate a character to action, I don't see them as being any better or worse than any other emotion in the palette of humanity. (i.e greed, lust, envy, revenge, psychosis, etc.)

I like characters who are heroes to some; villains to others.



3. Do you use the same process for writing every time or does it vary?

I often create notes in longhand before opening up the word processor. There's a different part of the brain invoked when using a pencil as opposed to a computer. It's especially helpful in writing comedy, when I'm searching for relationships between contemporary concepts, language and culture. The computer can sometimes be a barrier to free association.



4. What is your favorite character that you wrote yourself? What is your favorite character from another writer?

For the German sitcom I worked on, "Rita's World," there was a character called Schumann -- he was the manager of this grocery store in Cologne. On the outside, he was a rule-bound, insensitive disciplinarian, but inside, he really had a heart, and those scenes where it was exposed -- where I could peel off the icy facade and reveal his vulnerable side -- uncovered a wealth of humor and humanity. He was a fun character to write for.



5. Do you write in one style or several? Do you prefer one genre to another?

My first love is comedy, but I enjoy writing anything. I've written screenplays, press releases, poetry, short stories, internet satire, song lyrics, ad copy and a children's book entitled "Have you seen the Tickle Bug? (ISBN 1453669124), which is available from; http://www.amazon.com/dp/1453669124?tag=noisivision-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=1453669124&adid=1WCQY4MYGHJ05HBRBR5P&
or your local bookstore.








Thanks Brad for the great interview, I'm sure our fellow writers will find enjoyable and informative.




Till next time;

Sherri

Just a reminder my book is available directly at the publisher site;
http://outskirtspress.com/webpage.php?ISBN=9781432758110

Another Roller Coaster Week

I had really a good week mostly. I had a very short week at work, three days. My brother is here for his birthday and we are having a great time. And I have gotten a lot done on my latest epic.

But it was rocky too, the place I was suppose to have my next signing is having financial issues. So I am off looking for a new place. The Barnes and Nobles where I had such a successful signing is going to close on Dec. 31, 2010. Isn't that shocking? It is such a beautiful store in such an affluent area, and yet they are closing it. Goes to show you, you never know.

To me this is a sad commentary on how we are going as a society. Young people stop reading after college, they just play with their cell phones and play games. They have no concept of the joy of losing themselves in a good novel. Sad, sad world we live in.

I have to postpone my book party till November because of scheduling conflict. That is not a bad thing really it gives me time to make sure it is a great event. I think it will be fun for everyone even if you have the book I intend to make it special. So hold on to your party hats!

For my last part of the my blog, my Know Your Creative Past campain.
I did a mini survey at work asking about 7 people, all under 26 yrs old. Who is Gene Kelly? Three said, I have no idea who she is. Yes, she again??? Yeash! One asked if it was old Rock and Roller.(shakes head) Two said that the name sounded familiar. Only One smart lad knew who he was, and what he did. I was so proud of him. Good Job Abel!!!! Well Gene Kelly was a great Dancer. Rivaling Fred Astaire. He was very masculine, he usually played working class people. He was a wonderful actor, a pleasant singer and an amazing director. If he just made Singing in the Rain he should be applauded forever. Such an amazing classic.

Till next time:)

6 days away...

Well six days till my book signing. I am so nervous. My biggest fear is that no one will come. It will be just my mother and I all alone. I do know people are suppose to come but I am soooo nervous about it. I think I know what I am going to wear at last. That was a big hurdle.

Yesterday I got a tour of the store and decided where I would have my book signing. It will be on the upper story in fiction. It a nice sunny corner and I think its the perfect place for it.

We also discussed my next book. I am working on two and the manager who was showing me around seemed to think one would be more well received. One is a historical drama and the other is teen adventure/fantasy story. Which do you like better?

On the bad side the library has decided not to do a book group featuring Fantasy Time Inc. I am very disappointed but not surprised because of the change of climate with the city funding.

Well I hope to see you at my signing Saturday at Barnes and Noble in Calabasas between 12p to 2p.

Till next time:)