Writing-related resources, news, and reflections to enjoy over the weekend.
I’ve got some ambivalent feelings when it comes to various “best books” lists (and arguments about them). So I appreciated Laura Miller’s Salon column on “the absurdity of these dumb ‘my “great books” list is better than yours’ debates.”
“It’s perfectly in keeping with being a writer—even a ‘literary’ writer—to want to be paid.” Over on The Review Review, Allison K. Williams pleads for literary magazines to be open and up-front about whether they pay their writers. (On a related note: I would plead for those compiling newsletters/lists that feature litmag calls to do the same with the information that they share–is the opportunity that you are sharing one that pays, or not? Does it charge an entry fee, or not? Please don’t make me click through to each and every listing and to its guidelines page to find this information out for myself each and every time.)
Useful: “GLAAD responds to Vanity Fair cover featuring Caitlyn Jenner, releases updated tip sheet for journalists.” (via Boing Boing)
Next week brings the release date for Jessamyn Hope’s gorgeous debut novel Safekeeping. (I’m proud to be part of the team at Fig Tree Books that’s helping the book reach all of you readers!) Over on the Writer’s Digest/Guide to Literary Agents blog, Jessamyn recently shared “7 Things I’ve Learned So Far.” (Look for her also in the “Breaking In” column in the July/August print issue of Writer’s Digest.)
Finally, for some reliably wry literary humor: Over on the Ploughshares blog, Rebecca Makkai wonders, “Was This Review Helpful to You?”
Have a wonderful weekend.
“(On a related note: I would plead for those compiling newsletters/lists that feature litmag calls to do the same with the information that they share–is the opportunity that you are sharing one that pays, or not? Does it charge an entry fee, or not? Please don’t make me click through to each and every listing and to its guidelines page to find this information out for myself each and every time.)”
Yes. This. I totally agree with you 100%, Erika. Once when I (really politely) suggested this exact thing to a website, my comment was almost immediately deleted.
This would save a lot of wasted time and energy.
Clara, you might like to join this group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/35517751475/. The moderator has outlined that posts should include this information (especially about fees). When it doesn’t she (or others among us) usually add it in to save others time/effort.
I really appreciate the kind suggestion Erika, unfortunately I’m not on Facebook though…Oh well.
I like “best books” lists. It’s fun to find new books and I like seeing the different kinds of books people like. But I don’t pay any attention to “mine is better than yours.” Pointless.
Thanks, Erika, for including me in your roundup and for your kind words. I’m looking forward to celebrating with you at the launch!