This and That
January 18, 2012
In retrospect and anticipation—a few words—okay, maybe more than a few…
I’m usually the one early to the party, at the doctor’s office before my appointment, and already in my seat and waiting for the meeting to begin. But when it comes to 2012 resolutions and thoughts, I’m feeling like the last one to the party.
So, albeit rather late, what started me thinking, and subsequently prompted me to write this blog—which I consider both a homage to 2011 and salutation to 2012—was a short conversation I recently had with a Las Vegas resident. It went something like:
“Where do you live?”
“In California in the Mojave between Baker and Barstow.”
A look of disbelief followed.
I then offered my usual wisecrack, “If you blink, you’ll miss our exit.”
Okay, I do live out in the middle of nowhere. And indeed, it’s not the Bay Area, nor the lush forests of Washington, nor the scenic shores of Lake Michigan—a few of the other places I’ve lived in and loved. And from that conversation to this blog—I am at last, reassessing where I live, why I remain, and most importantly, my writing. The stuff of New Years contemplations…
Tempe
Before starting writing this blog, one of my dogs, Tempe (not named after Tempe, AZ, but because we thought he was temporary seven years ago), insisted on a walk. Where I live the sand is a dry tan with hues of old-dishwater-gray, the natural vegetation is comprised of Palos Verde, mesquite, and sage brush—ranging in color from pale unsaturated and faded lime, to deep dirty green; all framed against backdrops of several rolling and sometimes craggy ranges of nondescript hills.
Doesn’t initially sound appealing. BUT, this morning, like so many mornings, as Tempe and I headed down the road in morning light, the hills were kissed with a diffused hint of orange, the uninhabited and spacious terrain reflected back a golden glow that accentuated multitudinous shades of green from the rugged and tenacious vegetation claiming their place in the Mojave. This morning, two Ravens watched and commented from utility poles–with a line of sparrows on the wire as audience. Several rabbits took our presence as a threat, and scurried to hidey-holes of security. And in the alfalfa field down down the road, a huge circular-irrigation bar had appeared overnight—as if by magic–and a great plot idea, also seemingly by magic, took root in a corner of my imagination.
For a few glorious moments, Tempe and I were walking in a world of wonder.
Thank you to everyone who has read my “blog thing” since I started it in 2009. May we all have a wondrous 2012!
(Coming in 2012 “Lies of Convenience” and “Pronouncements of Ravens.”)
A Conversation with: Jean Henry Mead
January 9, 2012
Author, Interviewer, Photojournalist—and Much More
Jean Henry Mead
I was lucky enough to electronically“meet” Jean Henry Mead while participating in the 2011 Mystery Writers Blog Tour organized by Anne K. Albert. During that tour I learned a lot of interesting information about all the participating authors[i]. It was a wonderful experience!
During that tour, I was immediately drawn to “wanting to know more” about Jean, because like with so many authors I’ve wanted to talk to, Jean wears so many hats. I just love that multi-interest, multi-focus ability that some among us can pull off. Consequently, energy and inspiration immediately filled my “electronic” aura of Jean. And, inconsequential as it may seem now in the re-telling, Jean has a picture on one of her blogs (indeed, she has five blogs![ii]), of the view from her “Mountain Top.” For me, a good photo can sometimes grab me, pull me in, and tell a story. The photographic view from Jean’s deck took me to a wonderful (albeit very cold!) and magical place[iii].
Welcome, Jean! I would like to start with one of your blogs. Just keeping one blog going is an uphill climb for me. I’m fascinated by your interviews on Mysterious Writers—some of the authors you interview I consider “rock stars” in the mystery world. My “how things work” curiosity prompts my first question. With their busy schedules,how do you “ask” well known top-selling authors to be interviewed? Clearly you have no problem, and I’m guessing your reputation as an interviewer proceeds you. And, how does your e-book Mysterious Writers dovetail with your blog?
Thank you for the invitation to appear here, Madeline. I was fortunate to interview Elmore Leonard because we were both members of Western Writers of America, and it was early enough in his career for him to still be accessible (1980s). So, when I began my Mysterious Writers blog, I re-ran the interview and included the link when I contacted other bestselling mystery writers for interviews. That gave me credibility and probably convinced Carolyn Hart, Jeffrey Deaver, Nancy Pickard and others to answer my questions. After I interviewed them, I was then able to add their names to my previously published list. I’ve been turned down by a few writers, including Janet Evanovich, but I’ve found that most well-known writers, such as Sue Grafton, are willing to submit to an interview if they have a new release and are currently publicizing the book.
Quite an accomplishment to have developed such a good reputation. Changing topics, I can see how you must love your mountain top—the solitude, the inspiration, the time to write. But, what about everyday life? Groceries, repairs(something is always breaking at my house), deliveries, mail, etc?
Our mountaintop home is only two years old and my husband is handy with repairs. Mail delivery is three times a week and our woman UPS driver only ventures up here at 7,000 feet if the road is ice-free, so we usually drive to the bottom of the mountain during winter to meet her. Grocery shopping is every two weeks. We have more than one refrigerator and freezer in our garage to keep us well supplied, as well as a large pantry. It just takes a little advance planning to keep things running smoothly. We also have snow removal equipment to get to the main road.
You make it all sound so easy! Well, while you’re on your mountain top, in a recent blog you talked about loving doing research, and when you visited my blog on our tour, you mentioned “I once read 97 years’ worth of microfilmed newspapers to research Casper Country, a central Wyoming centennial history book, which eventually became a college textbook.” I like doing research too, but WOW! I’m guessing you use the Internet, libraries, books? Do you also do interviews? And how much of your research would you guess is for what I call “underlying authenticity,” and how much for specifics?
My stint behind the microfilm machine was nearly 25 years ago, when I was young and foolish, and I’d never do that again. But the book sold well and I’m pleased that it became a college textbook. Most of my research is now conducted online, often at the Wikipedia—which is said by librarians to be as accurate as the Encyclopedia Brittanica—and my own personal large library of research books. But, I check the facts with other sources, especially historical events. I also interview “authorities” or experts in the fields I’m writing about, usually by phone or email. As for specifics, it depends on the book I’m writing. For my latest Logan and Cafferty novel, Murder on the Interstate, I interviewed a chemical engineer about sulfuric acid spills and he was most helpful. Ironically, he was recommended by my writer friend in Scotland, who knew him personally from a research trip to this side of the pond.
Funny sometimes how those “connections” work out. On your main website you have a page for photos, and you have a wonderful black and white photo of a butterfly. To my eye, it’s extremely lovely. I’m hoping you’re still involved in photography. How is photography fitting in with your writing-life?
I began my writing career as a news reporter-photographer and have a mini-museum of cameras I’ve used over the years. I still take occasional pictures, some of which have been used as background for my recent book covers, but since I’ve been devoting most of my time to writing novels, I take fewer pictures than I once did. However, when warm weather arrives, my husband and I will ride our ATVs along mountain trails to take photos of the mountain’s beauty as well as the abundant wildlife.
What fun! Switching directions on you again, I’m an ardent mystery fiction reader—nonetheless, your nonfiction title, Maverick Writers caught my interest? What is the back-story on that collection?
I joined Western Writers of America in 1979, after I had moved to Wyoming from my native California. When the large WWA convention was held in the city where we were currently living, I was asked to conduct the publicity. That led to my appointment as National Publicity Director, and as part of my job I interviewed members of the organization, including Louis L’Amour and Elmore Leonard. The interviews led to a book titled Maverick Writers.The following year, as part of my volunteer job, I established the Western Writers Hall of Fame, which is now housed at the Buffalo Bill Museum in Cody, Wyoming. I became interested in the Old West after I moved to my husband’s home state, which is rich in frontier history. My plan is to combine the two genres by writing Western historical mystery novels based in Wyoming, as Ann Parker has done with her Colorado Silver Rush series.
Now that we know some of your writing plans, and before you leave, I sure would like to know what else is on the horizon for you?
I’m currently putting together a second book of interviews from my Mysterious Writers blog site, titled The Mystery Writers, which includes interviews with Sue Grafton, Lawrence Block, J.A. Jance, Julie Garwood, James Scott Bell and a host of other great writers, including yourself, Madeline. I’m also working on a fourth Logan & Cafferty mystery novel and a third Hamilton Kids’ mystery. I’ve been working sporadically on another western historical called No Escape, the Sweetwater Tragedy, a true story that I read about while sitting behind the microfilm machine all those years ago. I’ve been researching the novel for years and have visited the site to take pictures.
Amazing! You have so much energy. Going back to where we started, talking about interviewing–to quote you, “I enjoy interviewing ordinary people who have accomplished extraordinary things.” What a wonderful attitude to have when interviewing—I will remember. I just finished Murder on the Interstate, and I loved it. I especially liked how so much of this fast paced Logan & Cafferty adventure happens on the Interstate near me, which in sections is, or parallels Route 66. Especially since I just took that route to Left Coast Crime 2011 in Sante Fe, and to the International Route 66 Festival in Amarillo. So much of that area is still very fresh in my mind!
Thank you, Madeline. I’ve certainly enjoyed our visit. And speaking of people accomplishing extraordinary things, I have an interview book titled: Westerners: Candid & Historic Interviews with Extraordinary People. After my passing, I’ll probably be known for my interview books (five to date) rather than my novels, but I hope it will be the other way around because I much prefer writing fiction. (smile)
Thank you, Jean. Sure enjoyed talking with you!
Murder on the Interstate
Jean’s latest Logan & Cafferty mystery/suspense novel, Murder on the Interstate, is available at:
[i] Anne K. Albert (organizer), (order of appearance on my blog) Wendy Gager, Alice Duncan, John M. Daniel, Pat Browning, Ron Benrey, Beth Anderson, Earl Staggs, Jinx Schwartz, Mike Orenduff, Marilyn Meredith, Jean Henry Mead, Jackie King, and Timothy Hallinan.
[ii] Mysterious Writers, Writers of the West, The View From My Mountain Top, Murderous Musings, and Make Mine Mystery!
A Conversation with: Jackie Houchin
December 27, 2011
Photo-Journalist[i] and Author Supporter
Jackie Houchin
I’ve followed Jackie Houchin’s website reviews, blog posts, and Facebook comments since I first met her at a Sisters in Crime event in Burbank, CA. Her smiling and encouraging face helped get me through my first panel. And since that time, Writers in Residence[ii]—a website she shared with MK Johnston, Rosemary Lord, GB Pool, Bonnie Schroeder, and Jacqueline Vick—was one of my favorites, and I now follow her reviews on Jackie Houchin’s News and Reviews.
Jackie, I know you’re a reader, writer, and photographer — which I think is a perfect mix to-do–what-you-do so well. I see you as a Renaissance woman, with wide interests—your reviews cover books, plays, musicals, places, even recently, a butcher shop! And I’ve made immediate purchases of many books you’ve spotlighted. Clearly, I “listen” to your reviews.
As you know, I live out in the desert, which I like very much—but theater events are hard to find. During my days as a “city dweller” I used to love the theater, and now, often after reading your reviews, I’ve actually wished to move back to the “big city,” just so I can experience all the wonderful plays you’ve covered! I was salivating over “A Murder is Announced” — almost drove-in. So, I’m vicariously very much interested in how you became a reviewer, and what’s going through your mind when you’re reviewing a play, or musical. My first question has two-parts. How did you become interested in writing reviews? And what are the things you look for in a live production to hang your review on?
For eighteen years I was a production photographer, shooting publicity, archival, and keepsake photos for theaters and their casts. Actors in one show would tell others about me in another show until I was shooting community and dinner theatres as well as the bigger Civic Light Operas all over Los Angeles.
I loved capturing the color and drama of theater on film. I mean, after all, the directors and lighting designers really did half my job, and the actors already knew how to pose. I just told them what I wanted and they’d come together for perfect shots. I had a ball, and I learned to love these outrageously wonderful people – stage actors and crews.
Well, ahem… I’m digressing. Reviewing? About the time photography was making a major switch from film to digital I decided I didn’t want to invest in new cameras and software etc., so I gradually shut down my “ShowPhotos” business. But, what could I do with all those contacts?
I was already writing book reviews and human interest stories for a couple local newspapers, so I approached the theatre I’d first done photography for way back in 1987 (Glendale Centre Theatre) and asked if they’d be interested in my reviewing their current show. YES! was the resounding answer; one that I kept hearing every place I asked.
I already knew a LOT about how plays and musicals came together, how the director “staged” his actors and drew the best performances out of them. I’d heard musical directors lecture on singing and projection, and watched conductors keep an orchestra in line. I knew about backstage hustle and bustle and about how sets, scrims, and sound equipment worked (or malfunctioned). Being a lover of books, I already knew what made a good story. It was just a matter of “commenting” on it all in an interesting way.
When I go to review a show, read the director’s comments in the program and anything I find there about setting, time or theme. Once it starts, I take notes. These are similar to the “blocking notes” I used to take when I watched for great photo opportunities to shoot. I’ll take down quotes that are funny or that describe the action and watch how actors portray emotions. I’ll look at the set and costumes, noting especially memorable examples, listen to soloists/duets for exceptional melody, and watch for clever or beautiful choreography.
At home I try to write my first emotions and observations right away. Then I review my notes looking for key points and grouping them together. Lastly I sit and compose that terrifying first sentence and paragraph. When that is done (sometimes 4-5 hours later) the rest of the review flows.
I consider myself a “kind” reviewer and try not to be too critical. I will mention “disappointments.” I will always alert readers to overt profanity and sexually explicit scenes because they are things I’d want to know about before buying (or I should say NOT buying) a sometimes expensive ticket.
Also if the play is based on a book, say an Agatha Christie mystery, or there have been film adaptations made, I will compare those.
Wow, you do a lot of work for your reviews. Very interesting! Online, I also enjoyed Writers in Residence. It was great “meeting” all the authors you spotlighted, and loved that you were helping other authors. Are there plans for its return, or a similar website?
Sadly, I think that blog site is now defunct. It was a great opportunity to “get our feet wet.” Jacqueline Vick was the instigator of the blog and she herded us along until she wanted to branch out for herself. Only a couple of the writers wanted to go on with blogs or websites of their own.
I’ve recently added a MY BLOG tab on my News & Reviews website, but so far I’ve not found time to write for it. I want to get a nice backlog written, so once started, I can post at least twice a week. Perhaps in the New Year….
Looking forward to your blog. On a different front, part of my “internet life” is scrolling through my Facebook posts in the morning and finding your tidbits on unusual facts, recipes, jokes, and “how to” clean this or that—those go right over me… Often, your comments have put a smile on my face when I needed it. Where do all your wonderful comments come from?
Ah-HA! You want to know my secrets! Okay. Both my husband and I subscribe to a lot of magazines, e.g., Writer Magazine, The Smithsonian, Time, National Geographic, Prevention, Country, Real Simple, Sunset, Woman’s Day, Reader’s Digest, Cooking For Two, Hot Rod, Rod & Custom, Good Housekeeping, Cats, Seventeen… well, you get the picture. I peruse the in-between-the-big-article pages looking for tidbits. I add my own brand of humor and then pass them on.
I won’t tell anyone your secret! Switching topics again, I know you’ve written some children’s books for your granddaughters. I’d love to know more about that project. And since you’re such a wonderful supporter of mystery authors, do you have an adult or YA mystery waiting to come out?
Molly Duncan
Whoa, don’t I wish! But no, I fear my writing is of the “flash” variety – you know, written, in print, and then gone. Newspaper and website articles/reviews are my “genre” it seems.
I did write three long serialized stories for my granddaughters, mailing them chapters (which I also illustrated) every couple of weeks. The oldest girl finally commented that it was too hard waiting for what would happen next and wished I’d just write them all together.
Princess Ebony
I wrote the first book for her – “Molly Duncan and the Case of the Missing Kitten.” After that I wrote “Princess Ebony and the Silver Wolf” (think, Princess Bride kind of story). I “Kinko-published” these books, printing only three copies each. Sadly, I did not finish one for my third granddaughter, although I had it outlined. (She grew up too fast.)
But, to write a “real” book, and take it through the long, LONG process of rejections and finding an agent/publisher and then marketing it? All I can say is that I admire tremendously anyone who has done that, and done it again and again. YOU, for instance, Madeline.
Thanks, Jackie, but luck and generous author friends has a lot to do with hanging in there. (And being stubborn!) You’ve mentioned on your website you’re “an artist of sorts, and a horse keeper.” What kind of artist, and what’s involved in “horse keeping”? And, how do you fit it all in? Reviews, household and animal chores, car shows, Facebook, reading, SinC… Amazing!
I’ve always sketched and doodled. Then I took Art in high school. One large black & white painting of a live (nearly-nude male) model was framed and hung in my brother’s apartment for a long time. I’ve done a couple so-so portraits in oil, and a seascape that I just recently discovered packed away from 1963! I matted and framed it, and, darn if it doesn’t look pretty good!
I still sketch today (as the muse prompts) sometimes surprise myself when something comes together. I illustrated all the stories and books I wrote for my granddaughters using pen & ink and a variety of colored pencils. And when my oldest granddaughter wrote a children’s short story for her English class, she asked me to illustrate it. Wow, was THAT a challenge. I had to come up with twenty-one color drawings in about four days! I still have nightmares about not completing it for her. (She got an A.)
I also consider photography one of my artistic bents.
I’ve always loved horses and used to spend my allowance renting them to ride on weekends. I finally got a couple of my own when we moved here (a horse keeping suburb of Los Angeles). Now I simply board other people’s horses. It’s a twice-a-day, 365 day-a-year job. It was fun to have horses (and chickens) here when my granddaughters were growing up. And I’ve written several articles about them and those who ride them for the newspaper.
That last question? How do I fit it all it? Sometimes I don’t do a very good job of it. Then I get stressed out of my mind and do crazy things! (grin)
Okay, don’t blush, but I’m in awe! I still can’t envision how you do so much.
On a recent blog you mentioned you’re selling your home of many years and moving! What an adventure, and a lot of hard work. We moved in 2003, still haven’t unpacked all the boxes of “items I couldn’t live without”… Do you see moving to an area where you’ll still have “opportunities” to review? Or is there something new on the horizon that’s caught your eclectic interest?
We are still “selling” our house. Lots of lookers, but no takers as yet. It’s a tough time economically to buy horse property. I would like to eventually get away from the constant and sometimes stressful responsibility of horse keeping. And I would like to live closer to the ocean and my kids.
In my travels up and down the coast I’ve discovered a plethora of smaller local newspapers that might like a freelance writer. I think I could review theatres anywhere – they are desperate for publicity. Authors in Sisters in Crime, as well as referrals, and Mystery Scene Magazine will keep me in ARCs. But, I would like to slow down a bit and enjoy the scenery a little more.
Gads… did that sound like I’m getting old??? Sheesh!
Jackie, just read your review http://www.jackiehouchin.com , of “My Three Angels” playing at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in NoHo (North Hollywood) through January 15. Your review was wonderful—and I once again felt like taking the “big drive” into LA (I know, I know—I’m not that far away—but those freeways!)
I’ve wanted to talk with you for such a long time, but it’s taken awhile for me to make this happen. Your interests are so broad, just love that. Sure hope you’ll be continuing with your helpful hints and witticism. I love reading them. And for all us authors you’ve given, and continue to give a helping hand to, a great big “Thank you!”
[i] “I’m a photo-journalist, writing human interest stories, business profiles, event coverage, book and theater reviews, and the occasional investigative report for The Foothills Paper, a local newspaper in Tujunga, California.” http://www.jackiehouchin.com/
