This is a blog for journalists, authors, and those who enjoy reading and learning. Here you will find a variety of posts about all forms of writing–from fiction and non-fiction to the news media and journalism. It is produced by a former foreign correspondent and journalism school dean.
I occasionally post about the threat posed to freedom of speech in the United States by some politicians, academics, and television pundits masquerading as journalists. That’s my topic today. As a former journalist, it is a subject that I feel strongly about—especially when I hear people who claim to be … Read more…
The link below will take you to a podcast/radio interview I did a while back with C. P. Lesley of the New Books Network about writing historical fiction. Ms. Lesley is herself the author of six historical fiction novels set in 16th Century Russia during the reign of Ivan the … Read more…
Today, I am reposting a great article from Belinda Pollard, a writer, editor, writing coach, and former journalist from Down Under. That’s Australia, not that other place where none of us ever want to wind up! Belinda recently posted a survey she conducted about the pros and cons of Beta Readers, … Read more…
At least once every year I find it useful to take a look at the late Elmore Leonard’s 10 Rules of Writing. It is sage advice from a master. Every writer should read these rules and remember them. I’m doing my part by posting them here at the beginning of … Read more…
If you are struggling to market your book, then you are not alone. There are more than one million books published each year, and 80% of these books sell fewer than 100 copies. All authors, at some point in their career, have faced the challenge of getting attention, making sales and standing … Read more…
Today, ForeignCorrespondent is pleased to host author Mary Adler, who is the Rave Reviews Book Club’s first SPOTLIGHT AUTHOR of 2019. You can find the link to her entire tour, which began on Sunday, January 13, at https://ravereviewsbynonniejules.wordpress.com/spotlight-authors/ Mary is sharing an excerpt from her exciting mystery debut novel, In the … Read more…
Do readers like the characters you create? Do they have redeeming qualities even if they do terrible things? Do readers “bond” with your characters? Are they sympathetic or pathetic? What makes a “likable” character? Today, I am reposting commentary from author and writing coach Marylee MacDonald. In her always enlightening … Read more…
Historical fiction is one of the most popular forms of fiction being written today—along with young adult, zombie apocalypse, romance novels, and sci-fi. I am specifically interested in learning why people like historical fiction books. I have a few theories, but I would like to know what others think. As … Read more…
Ah, Political Correctness. Will it EVER end? Probably not. We live in an era of relentless hypersensitivity where the habitually offended reign. The latest controversy deals with the classic 1944 song entitled “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” I must have heard that song more than a thousand times growing up in … Read more…
HAPPY HOLIDAYS and welcome to the first RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB’S “POP-UP” BOOKSHOP: BOOKS & BUDZ! As a member of the RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB (RRBC), it is a privilege to support this unique bookshop where you can meet authors and watch them read snippets from their work. Below you will find … Read more…