Posts by Lynn Slaughter
Still Family
I was at my grandson’s seventh grade football game when the call came. Amidst the noisy fans, my son’s voice sounded unexpectedly sober and lower than usual. “Wanted to let you know
Read MoreWhy Do You Write Such Dark Stuff?
It’s not that my YA characters aren’t sometimes funny or snarky. But I have to admit that my books, like those of many contemporary YA novelists, tend toward the dark side. It isn’t only the murders
Read MoreCollege and Class
It’s three weeks into the semester at the mostly commuter university where I teach part-time. I see one of my most enthusiastic students struggling to keep his eyes open. Finally, he lays his head down on his desk. “You okay, Sam?”
Read MoreSo What Do You Do All Day?
Richard Johnson, the lovely man who helps me with my website, suggested that many folks are curious about writers and their work habits. I confess
Read MoreSometimes It’s Not What You Do, But Who You’re Doing It With
In her book, Do What You Love, The Money Will Follow, Marsha Sinetar argues that you will probably be happiest and do best in your career if you follow your passions. I couldn’t agree more. But there’s another major variable in there. Following your bliss needs to be with the right colleagues and bosses, or…
Read MoreA Review of Morgan Matson’s Second Chance Summer
When I really want to depress myself, I think about the stupid and unkind things I did as a teenager—like the time
Read MoreThe Writing Life: A Roller-Coaster Ride
Years ago, when I was still dancing, I began free-lancing for newspapers and magazines. One day, I ran into an acquaintance from college. “Saw your Sunday feature,” she said. “Congratulations.” “Gee, thanks.” “I wrote a story once,” she said, “but
Read MoreIn His Own Words and Those of a Grieving Father
I admit it. I’m a diehard liberal Democrat and a political junkie who sat glued to my television night after night watching the Republican and Democratic conventions. Of course, that also meant watching the accompanying political ads during the commercial breaks.
Read MoreA Writer’s Lament
In Rebecca Drake’s wonderful suspense novel, Only Ever You, there’s an interchange over dinner between Jill, the protagonist, and an older partner at her husband’s law firm. He inquires as to what she does, and she tells him she’s a photographer. He says that must be “fun.”
Read MoreGood-Bye for Now
In forty-eight hours, my younger son and his family will be on the road to Denver where he’s taken a teaching job. It’s a super opportunity, and as his mom, I am so happy for him. But I sure am going to miss picking up my grandchildren
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