What I’m Reading

I’m still enjoying The Windup Girl. It’s not a candy book and so I’m taking some time in the read, but I’d say it’s definitely worth the effort.

I haven’t had the chance to read any online short fiction this week. Have you read anything wonderful lately? Link it in the comments to share.

Writing

A good explanation of how to use setting description well:
http://gailcarsonlevine.blogspot.com/2010/02/setting-set-up.html

A clear reminder that we may use the same words for a technique, but each writer has their own process:
http://www.learntowritefiction.com/the-many-faces-of-a-plotter/

An evaluation of the benefits of writer’s workshops, along with information on a number of quality programs:
http://www.johnjosephadams.com/2007/10/article-basic-training-for-writers/

Tips on how to manage a busy writing schedule with deadlines:
http://www.routinesforwriters.com/2010/02/17/author-crush-month-jacqueline-diamond/

Science

10 odd facts about space:
http://oddee.com/item_96973.aspx

For my father, a look at the reasons behind the size and shape of Monarch butterfly wings:
http://www.livescience.com/animals/butterflies-evolve-longer-wings-100217.html

Research

Need names for your steampunk characters?
http://oobleck.org/steam/

Publishing

I’m currently writing a market series for Vision about submitting short stories from the top down. Therefore, some of the insights in the overview to this short fiction market review are especially on target.
http://www.irosf.com/q/zine/article/10629

Life

While directed specifically at the Christian community, this comment on approaching life has a broader scope as well.
http://chipmacgregor.typepad.com/main/2010/02/some-people-just-dont-get-it.html

I just glanced at this article and got sucked in, reading all the way to the end about found items in books. Fascinating:
http://www.abebooks.com/docs/Community/Featured/found-in-books.shtml

I’ve used portable speakers for years, but it’s always been a matter of trading off decent sound for size. This is incredible (if pricy):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiSxrrsi6sw&feature=player_embedded

Retirees become nomadic workers to combine a love of the outdoors with lowering costs and benefiting the US park system. What a wonderful way to make the best of those low income years.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/18/us/18campers.html?th&emc=th