STEWART TAKES TO THE STAND - British rocker ROD STEWART took to the stand in a Los Angeles court on Wednesday (27OCT04), accusing prosecutors of breaking a deal. Three South American promoters are suing the MAGGIE MAY hit-maker for $2 million (GBP1.1 million) for failing to return the deposit for nine cancelled gigs across the continent. At the opening day of the trial on Monday (25OCT04) the promoters' lawyer DENNIS HOLAHAN told the jury Stewart kept a $780,000 (GBP430,000) cash advance out of ''greed and arrogance''. Stewart claims the promoters did not pay the complete bill for the shows, and after giving them enough time to do so, they failed to come up with money, so he cancelled the concerts. At the stand yesterday, Stewart said, ''As far as I'm concerned, a deal is a deal.'' The 59-year-old added he was ''very fond'' of Latin America and we would have loved to perform at the nine dates. Stewart is counter-suing promoter HOWARD POLLACK of PM GROUP INC, demanding the remainder of the $2.1 million (GBP1.16 million) contract he signed. The trial continues.

MOBY PRAISES EMINEM - Dance superstar MOBY has extended a hand of friendship to long-time foe EMINEM - by praising the rapper's new video MOSH. The pair have been bickering since 2001 when Moby called Eminem's music misogynist and homophobic. The rapper later mocked Moby in his song WITHOUT ME, and the pair had a row at the 2002 MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS. But the PORCELAIN hitmaker appears ready to unite with Eminem - over their mutual hatred of US President GEORGE W BUSH. Moby has included a link to the Mosh promo - which criticises the Bush-led war in Iraq - on his website, and writes in his online journal, ''You know that Eminem and I have had our differences in the past. But this video is the best thing that I've seen all year. It's an amazing song and an even more amazing video.

COMBS WINS CARLITO'S WAY ROLE WITHOUT AUDITIONING - Rap mogul SEAN 'P DIDDY' COMBS secured his co-starring role in prequel CARLITO'S WAY: THE BEGINNING without even having to audition for the part. Entrepreneur Combs recently wowed New York audiences with his performance in Broadway play A RAISIN IN THE SUN, and convinced producer MARTIN BREGMAN he has the talent to star in a major film. Bregman, who produced the 1993 original, CARLITO'S WAY, and whose son, MICHAEL SCOTT BREGMAN, is the writer/director of the new film, says, ''I saw him onstage. Of course, we didn't test him. He's got it. He can do it. He plays HOLLYWOOD NICKY, the kingpin. ''Sean's not even nervous about it. He's just simply excited.'' The movie is a prequel to director BRIAN DE PALMA's classic, and follows the early drug-dealing days of AL PACINO's character CARLITO BRIGANTE, to be played in the The Beginning by CRAZY/BEAUTIFUL star JAY HERNANDEZ. Carlito's Way: The Beginning also stars BURT YOUNG and original castmember LUIS GUZMAN. It is set to begin production next month (NOV04) in New York's Harlem neighbourhood.

LOVE PRAYS FOR NO MORE BUSH - Controversial rocker COURTNEY LOVE hopes US President GEORGE W BUSH will be voted out of office in next Tuesday's (02NOV04) election. The former HOLE frontwoman, who was on 27 OCT 04 ordered to stand trial on a charge of assault with a deadly weapon for an alleged incident at the home of her ex- boyfriend JIM BARBER, is a passionate Democrat and has no doubt who she will vote for - JOHN KERRY. She explains, ''There's no other choice and I and many other Americans had fun under (BILL) CLINTON and no fun under Bush.'' But in an ideal world Love would like herself to be elected US President or, failing that, one of her friends. She says, ''I just got a 'PARIS HILTON for President' T-shirt. She's my friend and I know she'd wear one with my name. ''Or TINA FEY from SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. She's just really responsible and she gets the joke.''

CRUISE'S NOBEL GIG CAUSES CONTROVERSY - Religious leaders in Scandinavia are outraged by the decision to chose scientologist star TOM CRUISE to co-host the 2004 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE concert in Norway. Cruise and OPRAH WINFREY will take to the stage together on 11 December (04) in Oslo to present the star-studded event - which will be broadcast live around the world. But many are concerned Cruise will use the event to promote the controversial religion and have called on the NOBEL INSTITUTE to withdraw their offer to the MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE star. KARL-ERIK NYLUND, a priest from Stockholm, Sweden, says, ''They're a manipulative sect that takes over people's lives and finances. Cruise isn't going to be there as a missionary. But it's difficult to separate the artist Tom Cruise from Scientology Tom Cruise.'' But Nobel Institute director GEIR LUNDESTAD defends the decision: ''We're obviously aware that Tom Cruise is a Scientologist but that's not why we chose him. We chose him because he's a known person who is interested in the Nobel Peace Prize and we're proud that we have him.''

Of the 60-odd scripts that sold this month, almost half were adaptations or remakes, many based on classic 80's shows like Dallas, The A-Team, and Miami Vice (starring Colin Farrell and Jaime Foxx, no less!). Also keep an eye out for Wolverine, an X-Men spinoff for Hugh Jackman. Remakes bring back the 80's with slasher flick Prom Night, and The Ghost, also a horror picture. Novel adaptations include Deenie, beloved by Judy Blume fans, the world-round.

But fear not there were some original ideas floating around out there that actually made the cut. Happy Place, in which a stressed-out family man finds that his 'happy place' is actually a living hell when he gets stuck there, was sold as a pitch. And spec script Vantage Point, the story of an attempted Presidential assassination told from five different points of view, caught the eye of producer Neil Moritz and Columbia Pictures.

Comedies were a bit more hot than dramas, the highlight of them being Little Man, a new comedy concocted by the Wayans Brothers about a man who mistakes a baby-faced, height-challenged crook for his adoptive son. A few true-life dramas to look out for are bio-Pictures Factory Girl, the story of Andy Warhol muse, Edie Sedgewick and Invincible, the story of bartender-turned-pro-football player, Vince Papale.

Other highlights to watch out for are the Jennifer Garner romantic comedy Catch and Release, Catherine Hardwick helming Vivaldi, and thriller Alone, about an agoraphobic teen trapped in a haunted house. a fitting sale for this spooky month!

THE POSITIVELY NEGATIVE HIV STORY WRITING COMPETITION ~ The contest is open to all youth ages 14-22. Stories must be between 3-5 pages (typed, double-spaced or neatly written) and will be accepted via postal mail. The winner will be announced December 1, 2004 on World AIDS DAY. The winner will receive $500.00 and will have their story adapted into an educational film that will be seen by millions of youth over the next decade. DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 5, 2004

Fourteenth Annual Acton Essay Competition
Deadline: November 15, 2004
Type: Essay
Theme: Human dignity
Eligibility: International. 18+
Prizes: First Place: $2,000.00 Second Place: $1,000.00 Third Place: $500.00 published on the Acton Institute's expansive Web site.
Entry Fee: Free
Entrants are asked to write a 4-6 page (1,000 to 1,500 word) critical response evaluating the statement on human dignity in the context of three required corresponding articles.

ByLin e Magazine's PERSONAL EXPERIENCE ARTICLE
Deadline: November 20, 2004
Type: Personl Experience Article
Theme: Inspirational
Eligibility: International. Open
Prizes: $45, $25, $15
Entry Fee: $5 00
An article which is based on the personal experience of the author and also offers insight or motivation for the reader. Limit 2,000 words. The also have a number of other contests listed on their site.

DOROTHY BRUNSMAN POETRY PRIZE ($1,000 and publication) to a writer living west of the central time zone. Manuscripts should be between 50 and 65 pages in length. DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 30, 2004

St. Martin's Press/MINOTAUR DOMESTIC CONTEST
Deadline: December 31, 2004
Type: Fiction
Theme: Murder
Eligibility: International -Open to all ages
Prizes: $10,000
Entry Fee: Free
The contest is open to any professional or non- professional writer, regardless of nationality, who has never been the author of a published traditional mystery, as defined by the guidelines, and is not under contract with a publisher for publication of a traditional mystery.

S yn Sisters Publications
Deadline: January 25, 2005
Type: Short story
Theme: Any Topic
Eligibility: International -Under 20
Prizes: FREE copy of Midnight Skies by Patricia Payne. Published at Syn Sisters and on DeviantArt.com . Possible publishing in a collective short-story volume.
Entry Fee: FREE
Any short story about any topic between 300-1000. Fiction and nonfiction. Please, only ages 20 & under.

Dorothea Lange-Paul Taylor Documentary Prize
Deadline: January 31, 2005
Type: Photography - Writing Collaboration
Theme: The human story
Eligibility: International. -Open to all ages
Prizes: $10,000
Entry Fee: Free
The Lange-Taylor Prize is offered to a writer and a photographer in the early stages of a documentary project. By encouraging such collaborative efforts, the Center for Documentary Studies supports the documentary process in which writers and photographers work together to record the human story.The prize was created to encourage collaboration between documentary writers and photographers in the tradition of the acclaimed photographer Dorothea Lange and writer and social scientist Paul Taylor.

Acclaim Film
Prizes: $1,000 cash, screenwriting books, industry announcements and InkTip placement
Deadline: November 12, 2004

Scriptapaloo za TV Writing Competition
Prizes: $800 total cash, consideration by producers and agents
Deadline: November 15, 2004

3rd ANNUAL INDIEPRODUCER SCREENWRITING COMPETITION
Prizes: Representation with over $20,000 in cash and prizes to be awarded at an industry event in Los Angeles.
DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 15, 2004

TV Writer Spec Scriptacular
Prizes: $7,500 in prizes
Deadline: December 1, 2004

Find the Funny
Prizes: industry exposure and $3,500 cash
Deadline: December 31, 2004

LADYSIXSTRING ANNUAL LYRIC CONTEST
Open to all female amateur and professional songwriters. All ages. All styles.
Entry Fee: $10 per entry
Winners will be selected by an expert panel of music industry judges including Tish Ciravolo & Jan Pulsford.
Deadline: December 31 , 2004

October 22, 2004

In today's world, children face many challenges that those of previous generations did not encounter and could not imagine. There were those who suffered during the depression, war and other disasters, but, as it has been said by millions - no one could ever imagine the events of 9-11. However, there is another tragedy amidst many other tragedies that we have faced, and will face.

Two figures wearing long black trench coats converge on a building carrying a bag of weapons. Utilizing various shotguns and semi-automatic weapons they begin to fire at the occupants of this building. This is not a scene from a movie - it is what is known as the worst U.S. school shooting in history. This is the Columbine Massacre. On April 20, 1999, 15 students perished - 13 innocent students and 2 gunmen. On that same day, 21 were injured.

Later we found out that the students were planning this for over a year. Others asked where they could attain such destructive resources and the mindset to carry out such a dastardly plan. Some exclaimed: "Where were their parents? Didn't they know?" This is where this book comes in. Dr. Druck and his motivated colleagues have created a guide that has been written to help parents protect their kids from violence and to prevent any violence that their children may carry out.

It is not designed as a "cure" to the sickness that violence has become. Society has become desensitized to violence. We see it in movies, on websites, video games, and sports events and even in the cartoons that our children watch. We wonder where the resources come from. Just go to your computer and type in anything and the answer - in detail - will flash on your screen within moments. The previous statements have determined the mindset and resources and now another factor has to be discussed; prevention.

How to Talk to Your Kids About School Violence has outlined a proactive course of prevention. It starts with parents becoming role models in spite of their imperfections and the experiences that have molded them into the adults that they have become. We want our children to live better lives. There has always been a focus on avoiding strangers and not getting into strange vehicles - but now we must include scenarios in which kids bring weapons to school. It doesn't matter if you think that your kid is too young to carry out such plans, as mentioned earlier, violence and vengeance surrounds our children on a daily basis. We must teach them to report weapons or other destructive mediums to adults in authority. We must talk to our children, in a non-judgmental/non confrontational manner to defeat violent thoughts before they are acted upon.

Parents are the first line of defense and sometimes the persons that kids rely on as a basis for their decisions. If we make poor decisions they may be cursed with doing the same thing. Open communication is the first step to preventing violence. The "that will never happen to my kid!" mentality has to be defeated if we want to protect our children. How to Talk to Your Kids About School Violence includes the statistics, resources and game-plan for helping our children thrive in this difficult world. There are several "what- if" scenarios included to help you conquer the unknown questions or subjects that you may face.

We live in a violent world and education and information may be the only shields that will protect you against this violence. How to Talk to Your Kids About School Violence may be one of the first steps in helping your child cope with the pressures of society and make positive decisions. Even if you think that you have all of the answers, keep this fact in mind, the questions have changed.

Reviewed by Tyrone Vincent Banks

Only one body is discovered in the rubble.

Summoned to head up the investigation, is FBI detective-psychologist, Alex Cross, who has been visiting little Alex at Christina's house in Seattle. Cross-is aghast when a rock climber's digital camera reveals photos of the Weasel, near one of the bombing sites.

But Cross-senses the Weasel is not working alone, and feels the presence of the Wolf nearby. The Wolf is the most vicious HUNTER/KILLER Cross-has ever gone up against. Meanwhile, calls from an anonymous adversary do little to unravel reason of the heinous crime, as reports of similar bombings across the globe pour in.

Terrorists appear to have taken control, and threaten the world's biggest cities in a frightening and unthinkable way, making this tale realistic enough. With millions of lives hanging in the balance, Cross must think on his feet.

Can the most powerful law enforcement agencies in the world stay one step ahead of these two evil geniuses'?

London Bridges is fast paced and will have thrill seekers of all levels, as well as varying adventure whims pumped up. Cliffhangers, shocks and twists throughout the book, will keep readers voraciously flipping the pages as the mystery begins!

Reviewed by Betsie

In today's world you can't get what you want in life without networking. The Shy Writer helps readers to identify their "natural" trait -making a lasting impression.

Clark has designed this book mainly to point out that there's nothing wrong with being shy. It also provides step-by-step advice for overcoming one's shyness and fears. Specifically when marketing one's work. Clark covers such topics as: Telephone conversations, audiences, book signings, promotion, gimmicks, interviews, media and more.

Sooner or later every writer will need to face the reality of self-promotion. Clark's, The Shy Writer may just help make the transition of feeling self-confident in a room full of strangers a bit easier! The book will also show how you also need to reveal things about yourself - to followers, and the best way is by telling fun and interesting stories that make you look good.

This is one book certain to help any writer who suffers from stage fright or marketing frustration. Coming from one who had to overcome these very fears - I wish I had found this book sooner! The Shy Writer is truly a treasure to add to any library collection.

Reviewed by Betsie

Readers travel the rocky road of depression with Alicia from place to place, always searching for the happiness that seems to allude her. Alicia Maldonado is indeed a "Mother Lost."

Author Ardain Isma is a Haitian born writer living in Florida. He is an educator with several published articles on multiculturalism. This story reflects the difficulties experienced by persons of different cultures and backgrounds-some they are unable to overcome making life very difficult.

An interesting look at the world through the eyes of a displaced person who unconsciously, but selfishly leaves her children behind in her own search for happiness and peace. Readers will find a new insight as they look through the eyes of those who arrive in a new land facing fear, prejudice and the unknown.

Reviewed by Shirley Roe, Allbooks Reviews

October 22, 2004

Human beings through history have formulated many different names and forms for the Divine or Eternal. Just as we have many names and forms for other things, whether it is foods, or types of art, so too, in religion a similar great diversity has been created.

This inspirational tale begins after Vincent Young scans and submits a strange scroll he discovers in his possession to a language institute for translation, what he receives in return is an eye-opening message from Doctor Chionesu Sowande Sumaiyya. Sowande is the appointed historian of Tedros trusted with the knowledge of the Foluke people.

Sowande reveals to Vincent and his family that the scroll is but one part of a great assembly required in bringing Mawuli back to his people. Mawuli is an enormous elephant and representation of God. Sowande warmly dubs Vincent, "Tafiti," the seeker of knowledge.

Dreamlike, the Young family is whisked away in a limousine then following a procession into an exquisite palatial estate for an unbelievable reunion. This gathering was only the beginning of the path Vincent's spirit was born to walk. What follows are a series of richly relayed visions.

Vincent embarks on a quest of self-discovery by engaging in the sacred task of defending the soil of Tedros, ultimately finding God and have him reunited with his children. Giving strength through prayer, and a peace that would be based on toleration and a mutual "sharing."

Does God exist? Does God care? Given the world's sorry state, many have their doubts. Man feels alone only because he acts alone, thinks alone, and believes he is alone. He struggles in lack when he ignores or misuses God's bountiful gifts. Many of us understand and appreciate God-given gifts and tools only if we choose to accept them, and rightly use them.

I am truly not one to read large amounts of inspirational material, preferring movies as a better source. Although Banks' descriptions in Ayinde: They Gave Praise and He Came of a "paradise haven," water the mouth, excite the mind and soothe the heart.

Banks' has done a superb job of creating a "new Africa," as well as the prophecy of a hero born centuries ago to summon God. "Tafiti," is a modern day crusader of a forgotten past that has been reborn to cleanse the future. He is not only a flawed hero, but also a skeptical one, and one that most of us can relate to.

Ayinde: They Gave Praise and He Came is truly thought provoking and well worth the adventure into the spiritual world never before told that guarantees to lift the heart!

Reviewed by Betsie

** Remember - DO NOT SEND MATERIAL TO ANYONE LISTED UNLESS YOU ARE CERTAIN THE COMPANY AND/OR PRODUCER IS LEGIT AND YOUR WORK HAS BEEN COPYRIGHTED.

--------------- 1) Hard as Water Productions ---------------

A digital independent motion picture company, is seeking quality scripts in the following areas: Thriller/Suspense/Mystery; Action/Drama. Please forward inquiries to the address below. E-mail: grcain_99@yahoo.com

--------------- 2) NEW BRANCH THEATRE COMPANY ---------------

Seeking original scripts. All types including Christian themes and musicals. Sends script to:
New Branch Theatre Company
c/o Dionne Hawkins, Artistic Director
PO Box 1568
Oak Park, IL 60304-1568.

--------------- 3) REALITY TELEVISION CONCEPTS WANTED ---------------

by Brooklyn-based production company. Send your bio and your concepts to: realityshowpilot@yahoo.com

--------------- 4) Solo One Productions ---------------

I am looking for completed films where the starring role is female. The lead female age range is from late teens to early 30s.

The budget range will not exceed 1.5 million, so please don't submit queries which involve lots of action, FX, animation, huge crowds, traveling across country etc. Please don't submit a script that has a probably MPAA rating of R. PG-13 is the maximum that will be acceptable.

Holiday scripts are welcome. So are women in jeopardy stories and screenplays based on true stories. Of particular interest are stories about victims (whether by abuse or some unknown disease) that have never been nationally recognized. An example would be a girl in her teens having breast cancer and her struggle to over come it. Another story of interest would be a woman who overcomes the odds in a man's world. We are looking for meaningful, heartfelt women-themed stories.

WG and non-WG writers are welcome to submit.

Do NOT submit a query to us if your completed script's lead character isn't a female in her late teens up to early 30's. We are not interested in any scripts that 'can be easily adapted to fit the above'. In other words, the script must already meet the female criteria. We are also not interested in horror scripts.

Our credits include: 'Eddie's Million Dollar Cook-Off' for Disney and 'Where The Truth Lies'.

When you query, be sure to include in the subject of the email 'InkTip'.

Please email a logline followed by a synopsis and then a resume (if you have one) to Jack Jason: solo1productions@aol.com

--------- 5) Shapeshifter Films in association with JD Pictures Ltd. ---------

We have a skilled team with a track record and between us form an infrastructure that feels we are ready to tackle a feature.

We are looking for an appropriate screenplay to take on. We currently do not have a budget to pursue a project . We cannot begin to pitch until we have the right script.

If you have an English language feature length screenplay and would like to show it to us, we would like to see it. Unfortunately, due to the fact we're all pretty busy, we will not be able to thank everyone for their contributions. We will however be directly in touch with any writer whose script fits our criteria. We're looking for a scenario which involves a small core cast, no cheese, no Hollywood. Quirky and a good story - in. Incomprehensible - out. If you feel there is something we need to read, please mail it to the following address; scripthere@fastmail.fm

Alternatively, if you would prefer to snail-mail post, mail "scripthere" and we will reply with a postal address. Graham Geigenmueller

--------------- 6) Silvermanprod ---------------

Hollywood-based Jay Silverman Productions is now seeking completed screenplays for production. If you're a screenwriter or agent with a finished screenplay that's smart, innovative and contemporary, we want to read it.

We are currently considering the following genres only:

CON GAME/CAPER/HEIST: Stories of intricate planning and process, involving an elaborate and complicated mission or scheme, usually criminal. The threat of exposure adds the elements of suspense, excitement and danger. (THE ITALIAN JOB, THE THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR, HOUSE OF GAMES, THE STING)

SUSPENSE/THRILLER: Stories of tension, mystery and conspiracy, committed by people who usually live outside of the criminal element. These are Ordinary People caught up in Extraordinary Circumstances, in events they cannot control, driven to commit desperate acts, because their lives have gotten away from them. (REAR WINDOW, BODY DOUBLE, FATAL ATTRACTION, THE FIRM)

CRIME/DETECTIVE: Stories of mystery, murder, blackmail or criminal conspiracies, discovered and exposed by a lead investigator character who must uncover the truth, usually at a great person cost to him or her self. (COPLAND, L.A. CONIFIDENTIAL, CHINATOWN, THE LIFE OF DAVID GALE)

SUPERNATURAL: Stories of ordinary people caught against their will in a struggle against paranormal forces and powers. These are not horror stories, but dramas and object lessons that revolve and evolve out of supernatural elements. (THE SIXTH SENSE, GHOST, UNBREAKABLE. THE OMEN)

If you have a script that falls into one of those genres (or is a combination of any of those genres), please submit A ONE-PAGE SYNOPSIS to:

Submissions@jaysilverman.com

--------------- 7) Drove Theatre Company ---------------

A New York City based not-for-profit theatre organization seeking plays that are "timely, political, emotional, and not afraid to be funny". Currently there are no casting or time limitations

Submit synopsis and bio (not the play) via email to: mhampton19@aol.com

--------------- 8) Touching Fear ---------------

Horror scripts that are original, scary, and can be made largely in one location wanted for British production company.

DO NOT SEND SCRIPT INITIALLY- but a page or two synopsis.

If we think there is promise we will then ask for the script. Thank you.

Email: info@touchingfear.com

--------------- 9) Zebra Pictures Inc. ---------------

We are currently accepting unsolicited screenplays.

Ideal scripts: low budget (in the $250 000 to $5M range) intelligent thriller or horror. We are also open to other genres.

Please submit soft copy scripts and synopsis via our website submission

The website will take you through the steps and allows you to print a copy of the Zebra Literary Release for your records.

--------------- 10) Toronto Producers ---------------

Producers travelling to LA to pitch feature film scripts, looking for more proposals. If you have a well written script with a sharp and concise synopsis (including log-line and short synopsis) please email synopsis to pitchthis2004@yahoo.ca.

We are looking for partners and collaborators, as well as scripts to option.

--------------- 11) Orca Productions Inc. ---------------

I am looking for completed comedies and romantic comedies. However for financing reasons, the story MUST be set in Canada or the UK and the writer MUST be a citizen of the UK or Canada. Budget range is open. WG and non-WG writers are welcome. Credits for Nicholas Kendall can be seen on Imdb.com Please email a logline followed with a synopsis. NOTE: emails containing attachments will be deleted without being read.

Contact Name: Sidney Chiu
Email: info@orcaproductions.com

** Once you are certain the listing is legit, submit material through an attorney or agent. Never, never, never send your complete script to anyone over the net. A half page synopsis is all that should be expected via email, the requestor should supply full postal details for anything more. Unless you intend to make more money from the potential lawsuit than selling your script, make sure your script is registered with the AWG/wga-west or east. Best of luck!

The Writing Forum
Provides free page(s) for writers to showcase their work and gain exposure on a site where your writing "will be read by millions of people." Also offers a message center/forum, links to publishers, on-site writing tips/tutorial, and much more.

Voices Of Unreason
After signing up for a free membership, authors can post their work (poetry, fiction, essays) in the Discussion Group online.

WriteAlong
This "multiuser realtime storywriting community" - allows anyone to write stories together with lots of other people. After registering for a free membership, you can also just read, and make remarks on published stories through their messaging system, which allows you to send messages to other people on WriteAlong.

Ezine Articles
Submit your article for possible inclusion in this online database that offers free content to ezine publishers and website owners.

Then make sure you post this information on your website under "available at the following locatiions."

Cyrano's Book Store
Sandy and Jerry Harper, Owners
413 D Street
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone (907) 274-2599
Fax: (907) 277-4698

Title Wave Books
1360 W. Northern Lights Blvd.
Anchorage, Alaska 99503-2510
907/278.9283
Fax: 907/278.7323
Products@wavebooks.com

Gulliver's Books
3525 College Rd.
Fairbanks, AK 99709
907.474.9574
800.390.8999

Homer Bookstore
Owners: Lee Post, Jenny Stroyeck, Sue Post
332 E. Pioneer Ave. #1
Homer Alaska 99603
Phone (907) 235-7496
Toll free in Alaska: 888-635-2665

Hearthside Books & Toys
8745 Glacier Highway
Nugget Mall
Juneau, AK 99801
Tel: (866) 789-2750
hearthside@hearthsidebooks.com

A Novel View
Pat Tegtmeier
415 L Street
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 278-0084
anovelview@msn.com

Bosco's
John Weddleton
2606 Spenard Rd.
Anchorage, AK 99503
(907) 274-4112
(907) 274-4117
mailorders@boscos.com

Fireside Books
720 South Alaska Street
Palmer, AK 99645
Phone (907) 745-2665
Fax (907) 7452664)
fireside@goodbooksbadcoffee.com

Old Harbor Books
Marylin Newman
201 Lincoln
Sitka, AK 99835
(907) 747-8808
(907) 747-8813
oldharbr@ptialaska.net

Orca Book and Sound Co.
Susan Ogle
Box 1308/ 507 First St.
Cordova, AK 99574
(907) 424-5305

River City Books and Espresso Café
Peggy Mullen, Bookstore Owner
Kim Murry, Café Owner
43977 Sterling Highway
Soldotna, AK 99669
(907) 260-7722

Tales Told Twice
PO Box 631
Talkeetna, Alaska 99676
(907) 733-BOOK (2665)

University of Alaska Anchorage Campus Bookstore
Joyce J. Colajezzi
2905 Providence Drive
Anchorage, AK 99508
(907) 786-1153
(907) 786-4790
anjjc@uaa.alaska.edu

University of Alaska Southeast Bookstore
Linda Snyder
11120 Glacier Highway
Juneau, Alaska 99801
(907) 465-6401
(907) 465 6398
jybook@uas.alaska.edu

Metro Music and Books
David Shimek
530 E. Benson Suite #9
Anchorage, AK 99503-4155
(907) 279-8622
(907) 277-3435

Waterstone's Booksellers - Airport Bookstore
Jana Gwynn
5000 W. International Airport Rd. SA 3310
Anchorage, AK 99502
(907) 243-6016
(907) 243-0616

Last Frontier Christian Book Fair, LLC
Pamel Pflueger
700 E. Benson Blvd., Suite 1
Anchorage, AK 99503-4147
(907) 258-8774
(907) 258-5412

Jubilee Christian Bookstore
Lori Ryser
326 Center Ave. 90 G
Kodiak, AK 99615
(907) 486-4590

Last Frontier Christian Book Fair, LLC
Pamel Pflueger
700 E. Benson Blvd., Suite 1
Anchorage, AK 99503-4147
(907) 258-8774
(907) 258-5412

Jubilee Christian Bookstore
Lori Ryser
326 Center Ave. 90 G
Kodiak, AK 99615
(907) 486-4590

Good News Bible and Book Store
Deana McKnight
619 Goffney
Fairbanks, AK 99701
(907) 456-6223
(907) 456-6232

In real life human beings strive to attain warm, comforting relationships with spouses, children and friends. We work hard to find ways to support each other emotionally. However, I learned that having your characters respond to each other this way on film is at best boring and at worst injurious to your script.

In comedy, sensitive people watching out for each other are like death. Humor comes out of wit, out of people trading wiseass remarks, zinging each other whenever they can.

In drama, the best way to get story points across is through conflict.

Nothing puts a viewer to sleep like watching two characters tell each "the plan." But if those same two characters disagree on the nature and efficacy of the plan and argue about it, then the viewer will watch, wondering who's going to "win."

The truth is that the writer wins, by keeping everyone's attention and preventing the dread clicking of the remote.

This is not being negative and doesn't mean that all your characters have to dislike each other. That's not it at all. Think of the entire buddy movies you've watched over the years and loved. Have there ever been two characters that cared about each other more than Butch and Sundance? But they hid their feelings beneath their quips. The same goes for Kirk, Spock, and McCoy. Wouldn't you rather watch those three friends have at each other than be in a control room where Janeway's crew is busy nodding in agreement with her all the time?

Put some spice in your scripts. Have your lead characters go nose to nose!

If you are writing a logline to lure a producer to request your script, it has to be written in a way that makes the story attractive to the producer.

To do that, you need to understand producers and how they perceive loglines.

1. Anyone in a production company is short on time and very careful about what they spend time on. Therefore, they have very specific criteria for what they are looking for in a script and will quickly eliminate anything that doesn't fit those criteria.

That is a problem because at least 90% of the loglines immediately disqualify the writer. They are often dull, confusing, poorly written, a cliché story, vague, etc. None of those qualities are attractive to Hollywood.

2. As a producer looks at a logline, they are only considering it for one reason --- to make a movie. That means they are thinking about a $5 million to $100 million decision and looking for stories that are strong enough to fulfill the requirements of that level of financial commitment.

So the most important thing your logline needs to communicate is that your story will be a box office success...but you can't say those words. The logline must be so good that a producer can't stop fantasizing about the success your movie will have.

3. Every person in a production company pitches, including interns.

Why is this important to know? So you don't fall for the myth that producers, development people, and even interns don't know anything about screenwriting.

If you pitch a great story, you are rewarded. If you pitch a bad story, your credibility is at stake.

Now, the intern reads your logline. If you did your job, they see an amazing pitch in that one sentence. It is perfectly designed so they can walk into the producer's office and pitch it right then.

If you've written it that way, you'll get plenty of script requests.

Write your logline to be pitched:

There is a difference between a logline you use to explain your story and a "marketing logline." The first serves the story and is the one you've heard about from your screenwriting teachers. The second *sells* the story.

Many times, a well-written logline is worded in such a complicated way that it is difficult to pitch. It looks great on paper, but it doesn't flow off the tongue. So you want to test it by pitching it to someone over the phone and having him or her pitch it back to you. Often, the solution is to simplify the logline to make it easier to pitch.

Tell the best part:

Consider this: if there are 200 loglines on a site or in their catalogue, how do you get yours to stand out from the pack?

Many loglines that hide the best part. They hint at it, but don't say it directly, leaving the reader somewhat interested, but insecure about the decision to request the script or not.

You're probably saying "then they should read the script to see if it fits." But remember number 1 above -- they don't have time. So guess what happens? They eliminate that logline.

So don't make the mistake of hinting or being vague about the best part of your story. Give it to them with as much clarity and as powerfully as you possibly can.

We strongly suggest that you DO NOT submit anything without querying first!

Robyn Reo
109 Van Winkle Ave
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Phone: 201-963-9451
Email: ROBYNR@AOL.COM
Categories: Audiobooks, Small Press, Children's Books, Fiction, General, Mystery, Romance, Serials, Women, Juvenile/Young Adult, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks, Adventure, Horror

Lauren Marion Sinacore
464 Commonwealth Avenue
Apt. 39
Boston, MA 02115
Email: LaurenMarion@yahoo.com
Categories: Australian, Junior College, Small Press, Children's Books, Fiction, General, Humanities, Library, Literature, Mystery, Nonfiction, Poetry, Pop Culture, Sci-fi/Fantasy, Women, Juvenile/Young Adult, Psychology/Mental Health, Biography, Thriller/Suspense, Writing/Publishing, Academic/Scholarly, History, Adventure, Horror

Tara McGovern
1000 Plaza Drive
Suite 100
Schaumburg, IL 60170
Email: TeaTephi@aol.com
Categories: Audiobooks, Junior College, Small Press, Children's Books, Fiction, General, How-To, Humanities, Literature, Metaphysical, Mystery, Nonfiction, Poetry, Pop Culture, Romance, Sci- fi/Fantasy, Spiritual, Women, Juvenile/Young Adult, Biography, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks, Theatre, Cinema/Film History, Africana, Writing/Publishing, Inspirational/Motivational, Education, Academic/Scholarly, Adventure, Horror

Elizabeth Routen
Critique Magazine
Email: critique@windriverpress.com
Categories: Art, Australian, Computer/Internet, Small Press, Features, Fiction, General, Humanities, Literature, Nonfiction, Poetry, Biography, eBooks, Writing/Publishing, Science, History, Adventure

Sarah Nesbeitt, Coordinating Editor (USA)
Historical Novels Review
Booth Library, Reference Services
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL 61920
Email: cfsln@eiu.edu
Categories: Australian, Small Press, Christian Books, Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Sci-fi/Fantasy, Thriller/Suspense, Adventure Comments: Historical fiction (pre-1950s setting) and its associated subgenres: historical mystery, fantasy, religious fiction, and romance IF history plays a strong role in story. No e-books. Please query first w/ title, author, and brief description.

Remember pitching your story idea to any one of these magazines will bring your book or product to the attention of thousands!

Law and Order
130 Waukegan Road
Deerfield, IL 60015
Email: info@hendonpub.com
Phone: 847-444-3300
Fax: 847-444-3333
Frequency: 1 x month
Circulation: 38,000
Editorial Profile: Publication is geared toward the professional law enforcement manager.

National Police Review
7811 Old Tree Run
Louisville, KY 40222-4694
Email: divcop@aol.com
Phone: 502-425-9215
Fax: 502-326-3705
Frequency: 4 x year
Circulation: 6,400
Editorial Profile: Publication contains information about current trends in law enforcement and crime prevention of interest to citizens and law enforcement officers, private security, and members of the U.S. Military.

All About You
6420 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90048-5502
Phone: 323-782-2950
Fax: 323-782-2660
Frequency: 4 x year
Circulation: 439,887
Editorial Profile: Publication is geared toward teenage girls; offers information on fashion, health, romance and travel.

New Spy Magazine
101 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010-7703
Email: newmyste@erols.com
Phone: 212-353-1582
Fax: 212-353-3495
Frequency: 4 x year
Circulation: 115,000
Editorial Profile: Publication contains espionage short stories and book reviews.

Absolute Magnitude
P.O. Box 2988
Radford, VA 24143
Email: absmag@shaysnet.com
Phone: 540-763-2925
Fax: 540-763-2924
Frequency: 4 x year
Circulation: 9,000
Editorial Profile: Publication contains stories and articles for science fiction enthusiasts.

Landing a feature in any one of these magazines could also add up in sales - so don't procrastinate - get cracking and call, write, or morse code your news today!

Smaller papers are more apt to getting the news out about your book or product in front of readers, so don't leave them out!

Ackley World Journal
712 Main Street
Ackley, IA 50601-1538
Phone: 641-847-2592
Fax: 641-847-3010
Daily Circulation: 2,130
Frequency: 1 x week

Bettendorf News
500 East 3rd Street
Davenport, IA 52801
Email: bettnews@qctimes.com
Phone: 319-355-2644
Fax: 319-355-2644
Daily Circulation: 3,000
Frequency: 1 x week

Calmar Courier
114 North Maryville
Calmar, IA 52132
Email: calmarcourier@oneota.net
Phone: 319-562-3329
Fax: 319-562-3940
Daily Circulation: 2,000
Frequency: 1 x week

Daily Gate City
1016 Main Street
Keokuk, IA 52632-4656
Email: gatecity@intrl.net
Phone: 319-524-8300
Fax: 319-524-4363
Daily Circulation: 5,500

Eldora Herald-Ledger
1513 Edge Avenue
Eldora, IA 50627
Email: eldorahi@netins.net
Phone: 641-939-5051
Fax: 641-939-5541
Daily Circulation: 2,800
Frequency: 2 x week

Garner Leader
365 State Street
Garner, IA 50438-1236
Phone: 641-923-2684
Fax: 641-923-2685
Daily Circulation: 7,000
Frequency: 1 x week

Hampton Chronicle
9 2nd Street, N.W.
Hampton, IA 50441-1903
Email: chron29@rconnect.com
Phone: 641-456-2585
Fax: 641-456-2587
Daily Circulation: 3,900
Frequency: 1 x week

Independent
512 Sumner Avenue
Humboldt, IA 50548-1759
Email: independent@humboldtnews.com
Phone: 515-332-2514
Fax: 515-332-1505
Daily Circulation: 5,000
Frequency: 1 x week

Lansing Livewire
231 Main Street
Lansing, IA 52151
Email: alljour@sbtek.net
Phone: 319-538-4665
Fax: 319-538-4665
Daily Circulation: 2,100
Frequency: 1 x week

Mitchell County Press-News
112 North 6th Street
Osage, IA 50461-1202
Email: mcpress@osage.net
Phone: 641-732-3721
Fax: 641-732-5689
Daily Circulation: 3,650
Frequency: 1 x week

With thousands of listeners (to & from work or even at work) it's hard to leave out radio stations and their talk programs!

KDMX-FM
14001 North Dallas Parkway
Dallas, TX 75240-4346
Phone: 972-991-1029
Fax: 214-787-1649

KBUE-FM
5724 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90028-6706
Phone: 323-461-9300
Fax: 323-461-9946

WBEE-AM
15700 Campbell Avenue
Harvey, IL 60426-2881
Email: realjazz@cd1570.com
Phone: 708-331-7840
Fax: 708-333-2560

WBCB-AM
200 Magnolia Drive
Levittown, PA 19054-2007
Phone: 215-949-1490
Fax: 215-949-3671

KBZS-AM
1500 Sansome Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
Email: info@businessradio1220.com
Phone: 415-434-1220
Fax: 415-434-1280

WAOS-AM
5815 Westside Road
Austell, GA 30106-3179
Phone: 770-944-0900
Fax: 770-944-9794

WFFG-AM
1 Boot Key
Marathon, FL 33050
Email: keyradiogroup@aol.com
Phone: 305-743-5563
Fax: 305-743-9441

WJFK-AM
1 West Pennsylvania Avenue
Towson, MD 21204-5002
Phone: 410-823-1570
Fax: 410-296-9543
Please send all programming related emails to Cameron Gray, WJFK Operations Director at: clgray@wjfkfm.com

Remember: Celebrity endorsements are a good way to boost book sales or any product for that matter, so don't be shy about sending out those requests!

WaterFalls (Thriller)
LoverBoy Film Productions
443 Greenwich St. Suite 3A
NY, NY. 10013
Cast: Brooke Mason, Lee Burns, Lyndsey Byrne, Melinda Bennett, Claude Laniado.

The Bad News Bears (Comedy)
Paramount Pictures
5555 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Cast: Billy Bob Thornton

The Fountain (Science Fiction)
Warner Bros./Regency Enterprises
4000 Warner Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91522
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Rachel Weisz

Goal! (Drama)
Milkshake Films/Icon Productions
9444 Sierra Mar Place
Los Angeles, CA 90069
Cast: Diego Luna, Stellan Skarsgard, James Nesbitt, Brian Cox, Matthew Goode

Last Holiday (Comedy/Drama)
Paramount Pictures
5555 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Cast: Queen Latifah

The War of the Worlds (Science Fiction/Thriller)
Paramount Pictures/DreamWorks Pictures/Amblin Entertainment/Cruise/Wagner Productions
5555 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Cast: Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning
Director: Steven Spielberg.

Always query first! DO NOT send materials until requested.

Zachary Shuster Harmsworth
1776 Broadway, Suite 1405
New York, New York 10019

lzachary@zshliterary.com

Esmond Harmsworth
eharmsworth@zshliterary.com

Todd Shuster
tshuster@zshliterary.com

Jennifer Gates
jgates@zshliterary.com

Joel Pulliam
jpulliam@zshliterary.com

Sandra Shagat
sshagat@zshliterary.com

Don Congdon Associates, Inc.
156 Fifth Ave., Suite 625
New York, NY 10010

Michael Congdon
dca@doncongdon.com

Sara Jane Freymann Literary Agency
200 East 62nd Street
New York, N.Y. l0021
(212) 366-2627

Sarah Jane Freymann
sjfs@aol.com

Katharine Sands
katharinesands@nyc.rr.com

Artists Literary Group
80 Fifth Avenue, 15th Flr.
New York, NY 10011
(212) 675-6400

Joe Veltre
jv@artistsliterary.com

Diane Bartoli
db@artistsliterary.com

Alicka Pistek Literary Agency
302-A W. 2th Street, #124
New York, NY 10014

Alicka Pistek
info@alickapistek.com

DeFiore and Company
72 Spring Street, Suite 304
New York, NY 10012

Brian DeFiore
bdf@defioreandco.com

Kate Garrick
kate@defioreandco.com

Laurie Abkemeier lma@defioreandco.com

You've called your local newspaper three times in the last year to suggest an article about your organization. But each time, you reached gruff editors or reporters on deadline. They promised to call you back but never did. Or perhaps you tried to call your TV station to suggest a local feature story, but you kept getting shuffled off to someone who was too busy to help you.

One huge mistake that many new writers make is: They can't explain why readers should care.

Many when asked them why they should write about them, they would respond with ridiculous answers like "Because we've never been in the paper before" or "I'd like to surprise my mother with an article about me." Even worse were people who had no clue about what kinds of stories these newspapers covered. If they did suggest something the editor was interested in, they sometimes didn't have all the facts or details at hand.

Another idea down the drain. Don't let it happen again. It's time to send a pitch letter that convinces them to not only return the call-but to ask for an interview and a photo.

Why write a Pitch Letter?

Unless you know they want to be called, it's best that you mail a pitch letter, regardless of whether you're dealing with print or broadcast media. If you call, you'll have only one chance to convince an editor that your idea is worth considering. That pitch should take no more than 15-30 seconds. So why risk being tongue-tied, or reaching a crabby editor who really doesn't want to talk to you?

With a written pitch letter, you can get in front of an editor twice-once with the letter, then again when you make your follow-up phone call. A pitch letter doesn't need to tell the whole story. All it needs to do is attract the interest of an editor or news director. That sounds easier than it is.

Here's how to make the process a little smoother:

Learn as much as possible about the potential topic.

What are its weaknesses, short-term needs and long- term goals? Where is the topic most in most need of assistance?

Inventory yourself.

Review your experience, passions and skills. Especially focus on your unique accomplishments and interesting facets of your personality.

Craft your story.

A good advertising campaign is built around a compelling topic. Compare your inventory of skills and attributes with the potential topic needs and try to draw connections. Build your story from the strongest, most unique of these connections. Creativity alone isn't enough. Be sure your message is focused and logical.

Yell it from the rooftops.

Deliver your message consistently and frequently. Repeat it to networking contacts --personal and professional -- and when talking with potential references. Whenever your name is mentioned, it should be in the context of your story.

Self-marketing won't substitute for hard work and solid credentials, but it will ensure that editor and reporters clearly understand your full potential.

Here we're talking about anyone who loosely fits the description of "beat" reporter. This means the general assignment reporters and feature reporters.

While sometimes they get assigned to cover certain stories, very often they find themselves responsible for coming up with their own ideas. This is where your opportunity lies.

It's been said that most general assignment reporters are a mile wide and an inch deep. In other words, they know a little bit about a lot of things, but they don't know a lot about anything.

Helping them shorten that learning curve - becoming their top resource for insight and information on their beat - offers tremendous potential for getting free publicity. Even if they don't write about you or attribute quotes to you right away, it's just a matter of time before you start showing up on the air and in print.

So here's what to do:

Pitch your idea to someone farther down the newsroom hierarchy who's responsible for coming up with their own stories.

• Identify who you are and why you are calling.
• Ask if this is a good time to talk. If it isn't, ask the reporter to suggest the best time you should call back. Never ask a reporter to return your call. If it is a good time to talk, proceed to the next step.
• Let the reporter know you are familiar with the publication or with stories he/she writes about.
• Explain the idea in a sentence or two
• Explain quickly why readers will care.
• Ask if the reporter is interested.

If you build a relationship and become one of those sources you'll often find yourself getting free publicity that's more believable, powerful productive and profitable than any advertising you can buy at any price.

Classified ads are inexpensive and powerful, and are an excellent way to promote your business both online and offline. Online, you can place ads in ezines and on Web sites, and offline, run them in your local paper and in niche magazines.

If you've tried a classified or two to promote your business and were disappointed with the results, remember that a one-shot deal won't work.

You need to run your ads repeatedly. For months, not weeks. Run one classified a week in a newspaper, or one a month in magazine read by your target audience ---for at least four months.

The humble classified ad is the magic bullet of advertising. And like a bullet, it needs to be precisely aimed.

Step One: Pick your bait

Somehow you've got to pack the copywriter's AIDA formula of an successful ad: Attract, Interest, Desire, and Action, into 30 words.

You attract interest, arouse desire and get the reader to take action, with an appealing bait.

Start by listing everything you can think of to say about your product.

• Don't limit yourself.
• Don't just cover all the features you usually cover.
• Write down *everything* you can think of.
• You should have a long list.

When you've listed everything, pick four or five things you think would appeal to your ideal buyer.

Step Two: Write the headline

Your classified ad won't really have a headline, but the first line functions as a headline. It should stop the reader cold, and it must be part of your sales message.

Remember that in newspapers, classifieds run in categories with headed columns, so don't repeat words like "For Sale".

Step Three: Write the body copy

You can't be too creative in a basic classified. Give the facts. You can add descriptive words like "charming", "classic", and "thrilling" to spice up the copy. Use punctuation rather than linking words like "and".

Get enthusiastic about what you're selling. This enthusiasm will come across in the ad. Imagine yourself the buyer: reading, using the item, applying for the job, or buying from the business.

This enthusiasm is vital when you're selling. If for some reason you're having a bad morning, put the ad away for a few hours until you can achieve genuine enthusiasm

If you're writing an ad for someone else, and you don't feel excited, it's usually because you don't know enough about what you're selling. Do a little more research.

Step Four: Get the response

Don't forget to add the phone number, the address if required, or the online URL.

The response is usually placed last in a classified. However, you can make your ad stand out by giving the phone number or the URL, and then making one final selling point: "Three only", "free quotes (excerpts)", or "results (satisfaction) guaranteed".

Step Five: Write several versions

Write at least four versions of the ad. Then go and do something else. When you come back, you'll have more perspective so you can pick the best one. Here's a successful technique: if you have so many selling points that the ad runs long, split it and run two ads.

Step Six: Test your ad

Testing is a must for ANY business ad. Often changing the first line, or rearranging your selling points will double or triple the pulling power of an ad.

How do you test? The basic process is to run the ad, and record the response. Ask the people who responded what drew their attention to the ad.

Keep changing the ad slightly, and recording the response each time you run it. The ad you settle on for longterm use is the ad which pulled the most responses.

These can easily be adjusted and twisted to fit your own train of thought, SO FEEL FREE TO USE THEM.

1. What happens when a hard partying "professional student" meets a hard studying braniac and falls in love?

2. A once successful writer suddenly finds himself propelled into the shadowy world of the vampire when a true vampire slaughters his wife and takes his daughter hostage in a cruel game of kill me if you can.

3. An ex-gambling junkie, heads back to Las Vegas to pay an old debt and gets more than he gambles for when he is forced to pay a debt for the mob as well.

4. In a small, wooded town, where a killer lurks about preying upon his victims by putting up false road signs, causing them to drive down dark, dead- end roads.

5. A newspaper columnist finds out he is dying from a rare form of cancer, so in the time he has left, he vows to seek revenge upon those who made his life a living hell.

6. A crooked C.I.A. agent bumps-off his mobster partner, while being witnessed by a local "callgirl," it's time to find out who can outwit who.

7. A group of high school students researching a gang of vicious serial killers get more than they bargain for when the murderers are found to be alive and well, possessing supernatural powers of immortality.

8. An Investigative journalist lacks the courage necessary for his work. He runs from an imaginary pursuer. The Investigative journalist tries to rid himself of a fear that haunts every aspect of his life, and plunges him into serious problems and dangerous situations.

9. A brilliant, capable Executive, fights for survival in a savage wilderness and deteriorates in character until he sinks to the level of his primitive surroundings.

10. Any minute now she expected to hear a police siren, in fact hoped she would hear it, as she smelt the rubber burning off the tires. He turned and grinned at her, before gripping the wheel and jamming his foot on the accelerator pedal again.

11. It was my best friend's deepest secret and it would be a hard one to keep... what if dogs could read?

12. Once upon a time in a land far away, there lived a young girl, lightning flashed and thunder shook the house, while witch was mixing up yet another batch of a perfect potion.

13. Night fell and the attractive old man threw a feather at the young woman who traveled the world to seek his fortune.

14. He climbed up to the top of the stairs, when he saw a door which had never been there before, upon opening it...

15. She couldn't understand the look of terror in his eyes as he looked at her. And then she realised he was not looking at her, but at someone, or some thing, behind her.

A couple of years ago I (along with a few subscribers to "Sharing with Writers" ) rented a booth at the LA Times-UCLA Book Fair. They are fairly expensive but I am ready to do it again (a really fun experience) if I can find several people to do it with me again. In FRUGAL (many of you have a copy) I give you a rundown on our last experience with this fair--a qualified success. It's April 24th and 25th of 2005. and here is the contact for the fair if you need tons more information:

Exhibitor Contact:
Aida Maestas
(213) 237-7334
Email: aida.maestas@latimes.com

They will tell you that authors can't share a booth but we got around that by doing an Authors Coalition Booth. I don't have the exact price on the booth this year but if we had 6 participate it would be about $125-$150 each plus the time, work and the fun.

If I do it, I'd like to make reservations early along with a request for a good spot (we did this last time and it worked, though the fair people make no promises). I know the layout reasonably well, and that helps.

So, let me know what you think.

Keep writing--and promoting--everyone!

Carolyn Howard-Johnson, Author - The Frugal Book Promoter: How To Do What Your Publisher Won't

Marika Flatt spent seven years with Phenix & Phenix Literary Publicists as the lead publicist. She has launched her own firm called PR by the Book. PR by the Book offers: full scale media campaign, ala carte publicity services such as media training, specific city promotion, press material development, and other training/ consultant services. Of most value to new writers, Flatt develops a complete marketing plan which writers can use in their promotion to agents and publishers.

The clock is ticking....

** PR by the Book is offering "Betsie's Literary Page" readers a 15% discount until 11/18/04.

Contact:
Phenix & Phenix Literary Publicists, Inc
2525 West Anderson Lane, Ste. 540
Austin, Texas 78757
512.478.2028
512.478.2117