The Writing Pages

Ten Foreign Words or Phrases

2009-06-16T18:17:00.000+05:30

French, Latin or even Russian words used in English Literature have often confused and troubled me, thus compelling me to research and find their meanings. For you convenience here is a list of ten most commonly used foreign words:

au fait (French): having a good or detailed knowledge

bona fide (Latin): genuine; real

carte blanche (French): complete freedom to act as one wishes

de facto (Latin): in fact, whether by right or not

déjà vu (French): the sense of having experienced the present situation before

prima facie (Latin): accepted as so until proved otherwise

faux pas (French): an embarrassing blunder or indiscretion

joie de vivre (French): exuberant enjoyment of life

haute couture ((French): the designing and making of clothes by leading fashion houses

grande dame (French): a woman who is influential within a particular sphere

A List Of The Longest Novels

2009-05-18T15:25:00.002+05:30

There has always been a dispute over which is the longest novel in English Literature. Different researchers and critics have always taken different names. However, today I bring before you an easy access to whoever is intrigued by the mystery of the longest novel in literature!!

After a lot of research, my work bore fruit for I found a fabulous guide to all the longest novels from around the world.

Who hasn’t heard of Wikipedia? Every internet user, avid or immature, certainly knows what Wikipedia is. And if you do not (:gasp:), please click HERE.

So, as I was telling you, Wikipedia came to my help again. It is there where I found a list of all the longest novels in the world.

Did you know Wikipedia had a whole page dedicated to it? I’m sure you did not so here’s why I am sharing it with you!

Here is an extract from the page:

Like determining the list of tallest buildings, figuring the list of longest novels would yield different results depending on what criteria are used.

While word and character figures are common standard, word and character become interchangeable depending on the language used. In alphabetic writing, several letters are combined to make a syllable, which are combined to make a word. In the Korean language, each letter expresses one syllable, significantly reducing the number of letters needed to express one word. Japanese, borrowing its word roots in part from Chinese, uses a combination of ideographs combined with syllabic symbols for inflection.

To read the complete text please visit- List of longest novels

And for your convenience, here is the list:

1. Madeleine and Georges de Scudéry, Artamène
2. Marcel Proust, À la recherche du temps perdu
3. L. Ron Hubbard, Mission Earth
4. Madison Cooper, Sironia, Texas
5. Anthony Powell, A Dance to the Music of Time
6. Samuel Richardson, Clarissa
7. Xavier Herbert, Poor Fellow My Country
8. Marguerite Young, Miss MacIntosh, My Darling
9. Ayn Rand, Atlas Shrugged
10. Alexandre Dumas, père, Le Vicomte de Bragelonne, ou Dix ans plus tard
11. Vikram Seth, A Suitable Boy
12. Leo Tolstoy, War and Peace
13. Carl Sandburg, Remembrance Rock
14. Victor Hugo, Les Misérables
15. Marija Jurić Zagorka, Gordana
16. Robert Musil, The Man Without Qualities

I hope this was a help….and hey!! Do you not recognize some names out there? Please share your views and I would love to know which one out of them, you’ve read, without even knowing it to be one of the longest texts in history!!

Big Money by P.G Wodehouse

2009-05-12T16:37:00.001+05:30

I am not such a big lover of classics but after my friend’s suggestion, I decided to give PG Wodehouse a try and oh boy, it was certainly worth it!

I read Big Money by PG Wodehousee and would suggest it to all those who love the taste of humor in writing.

The story is about two friends Lord Biskerton or Biscuit and Berry Conway and their financial troubles. The twists and turns in the story make it difficult to keep down. The love life tangles of the two friends, the covetousness of their family, the knowledge of bogus shares not being so and so many other tiny parts of the plot make it an awesome read!

Patterson Frisby is the miserly boss of Berry Conway, who is interested in a copper mine held by Conway. He employs his abettor, more of a bawling man who performs any duty a rich man will ask him to perform to be in the rich man’s good books. But Hoke gets a brain wave and spots the money making opportunity of a lifetime in the mine.

And Big Money is not all about money, but equally balanced with a humorous love tale of two friends engaged to the same lady and then one deciding on other.

By the summary I give you, I am certain you find he book interesting. The style of writing is quite modern and well enough for a modern day fiction lover.

The intricacies of the plot have you in splits at quite a few times throughout the book.

A prudent read for all so go……..hurry and catch a copy!!

Writing For Yourself

2009-05-02T17:07:00.000+05:30

The main aim of an author is to please the reader. And the most successful writers are the people who succeed.

You know why? Because they keep in touch with the audience but do not write only for them. They write for themselves too and so do not loose their individuality.

Most amateur writers are too obsessed with the idea of pleasing the reader. But they seldom remember to please themselves!

Maybe you do get satisfaction after writing a post, maybe you enjoy the compliments of your readers, but before you decide, just read the post and think- DO I REALLY LIKE IT MYSELF?

The first objective of pleasing a reader is to please yourself because remember that, you yourself are your biggest critic.

There are people I know, who like writing long emotional articles but keeping an internet reader in mind, they cut down their posts to 10 lines just so the reader doesn’t flip away. More often than not, it reduces the quality of their work.

I do not say it is wrong. Practicing new stuff is never wrong, but forgetting your first love and almost abandoning it, is not good either.

So remember, while writing; first keep in mind YOURSELF and then the reader.

Just try it once and then tell me if it helps!!

10 Tips On How To Write For Children

Writing A Books Review!

How To Keep Your Writing Simple?

Writing Prompts For Kids

Reading Helps Improve Your Writing

Fixing A Goal For Your Writing

The Best Time To Write

Small Wonder!

2009-04-22T16:35:00.001+05:30

Recently, I read an astonishing news which almost made me jump off my chair in surprise!

70 pounds and not an inch taller than 4 feet, but hey! don’t go by Adora Svitak’s size my friends…..for she stood proudly atop the stage addressing students of one of the best public high school at Chicago, which also counts Michelle Obama as one of the prestigious alumina, giving them advises on how to publish their books!

Yes!!! Can you believe it?

She stood lively in her pink pompom boots and sweat pants in a cherubic blue. It is supposed that almost 135 students listened with rapt attention to her words and most were encouraged and aspired to reach her level.

She told the students to become much more serious about their writing if their dream is to publish a book, and to limit their television time.

Just 11 years of age, and already the happy author of two published books, Adora from Redmond, Wash, was on cloud nine as she shared her experience as a writer with the students. She has already penned down more than 400 short stories and more than a dozen poems. She says that by the ripe age of 4, she conquered the art of reading chapter books and started writing soon enough. She has her own blog which you can visit by clicking here.

In a patent voice and gesticulations that contradict her age, Adora used prudent literary vocabulary like “protagonist,” “conflict” and “plot” as easily as girls her age use words for their favorite pop stars and television shows.

Adora, prefers watching nightly newscasts and reading fantasy, historical fiction and biographies than sitting in front of the idiot-box.

I just wish I was as smart as her. All I can do now is look up to her as an inspiration!

T*Witches- by Reisfeld and Gilmour

2009-04-13T15:39:00.004+05:30

It’s been long time since I finished reading T*Witches. But seeing it in my shelf I could not resist taking it out for another read and that’s when I thought I ought to write about it!

T*Witches is a popular young adult fantasy novel series by H.B Gilmour and Randi Reisfeld.

This book is in a series which have a total of ten books. It is also been amde into a popular Disney Channel Movie. The book is the story about identical twin sisters separated at birth, Camryn Barnes and Alexandra Fielding, also known as Apolla and Artemis DuBaer (their names as witches).

The only sign of recognition they have about their real life is a pair of matching amulets of the sun and the moon and also similar powers to said celestial bodies. The twins' guardians are Ileana, a cousin; and Karsh, a mentor.

In the real world, the two live completely different lives, miles away from each other, not knowing of their powers until they met in The Power of Two.

The book has a wonderful plot which goes through an avalanche of emotions, surprises and thrills. It will certainly be a good read for most teenagers. It is about magic, reunion and love- themes which can be enjoyed by one and all.

The Best Time To Write!

2009-04-06T16:48:00.005+05:30

There are always people asking me how to decide when is the best time to write? How to decipher when your mind is at its creative best and when it can provide the maximum result?

It was then that I decided to write this post.

First, get down to thinking which ambience soothes you best. Some like the early morning bloom, or some the late night moon….some the musical melodies and some prefer the quiet parody.

What do you like? When do you let your mind relax the best?

Or question yourself as to when do you enjoy reading a book?

Some like that late at night, someone the morning ….. and others have diverse ideas as to when and where!

The same stands for your writing. You just need to peek inside and then you’ll know!

And still if you do not get your answer, just sit down, relax and arm yourself with a pen and paper…and 123…..

Start scribbling or writing!!!!

And then you’ll know, the best time to write is:

NOW!

10 Tips On How To Write For Children

Writing A Books Review!

How To Keep Your Writing Simple?

Writing Prompts For Kids

Reading Helps Improve Your Writing

Fixing A Goal For Your Writing

Simple Genius by David Baldacci

2009-03-26T17:58:00.002+05:30

I just finished flipping through the last pages of the latest thriller I read, a book called Simple Genius by the impeccable writer David Baldacci. It is a commendable book and a suggested read for all.

I am most thrilled to read such a book, when I had not given it a second look on first chance. It is a sure-shot page turner.

The story revolves around Michelle Maxwell and Sean King doing a private investigation on the U.S Government’s or the CIA’s forbidden property and the physiological problems faced by Michelle.

In the beginning the author adroitly describes the physiological conditions of Michelle and how Horatio Barnes, physiologist and friend of Sean helps Michelle deal with it but unsuccessfully!

Being in a financial crisis, this is how Sean pays for her medical fee by accepting an investigating offer by ex-girlfriend Joan Dillinger. As Seann goes through the puzzling events of death in Babbage Town, Micelle is solving her own set of mystery (which is just a side kick).

Finally Horatio and Michelle and Sean team up to solve the mystery at Babbage Town and the puzzling events at Camp Peary.

The result is spine chilling and much surprising than what you can believe!

So do not waste time, pick up a copy and leave of your praises at the comment box!

Fixing A Goal For Your Writing

2009-03-24T17:06:00.006+05:30

Rome was not built in a day, and so is your work. A good piece of writing cannot be written on first attempt.

As I have always been telling my readers, constant practice and writing is the only key to a successful writer.

Just yesterday, my friend asked me, "You always keep telling me to write. But HOW MUCH do I write?". This got me thinking.

What I do is follow a plan. In the beginning of the year, I set an objective for my writing. I fix a goal to finish three good pieces of my personal writing each week. It keeps me busy in my leisure time and also helps me improve my writing skills.

One can plan as he/she wishes and is suitable for him/her. If you are not too busy to devote much time, you can fix a goal of finishing five pieces a week. Or you can settle down on a monthly basis, of finishing thirty to fifty pages of your novel or anything you wish. Even making a yearly plan comes in handy to our busy-bees.

The first thing to get down to is to make the plan or objective. While doing so, keep in mind what you write, how and when. Remember how much time you can devote each day and find a suitable goal.

But the most important part of this is to stick to you timetable. No use making overambitious plans and goals just to build castles in the air!

Just try my idea once and share the result with me here. I'd be glad to hear the pros or cons.

The comment section awaits you :)

10 Tips On How To Write For Children

Writing A Books Review!

How To Keep Your Writing Simple?

Writing Prompts For Kids

Reading Helps Improve Your Writing

World's Longest Poem

2009-03-19T17:25:00.007+05:30

While surfing the net, I recently came across the world's longest poem.

Ever thought of who wrote the longest poem in literature?

If yes, I give you your answer.

World's longest poem in English literature is written by Nigel Tomm who is a writer and artist.

Here's an excerpt from the first page:

Blah me. Blame you.
Blah you. About you. You blame me. Blah you.

I blah as you or blah by blah,
You know. You blah. You blah it out of blah.
Blah blah. Blah blah.

His book "The Blah Story, Volume 8" consists of one poem which contains 98,728 words, 449,441 characters (with spaces), 23,161 lines, 728 pages. This becomes the longest published poem in English. The poem is called 'My Blah Story'. The book was published in February 9, 2008.

Intrigued, I searched more about this incredible author. Nigel Tomm is a writer/artist who time and again pushes the limitations of literature. His novel "The Blah Story" is a clear example of that.

"The Blah Story" is based mostly with sturdy beat with over usage of the word 'blah'.

Isn’t this really interesting? Have you ever imagined writing a poem more than 1000 words? And think of this incredible author sweating over writing a poem almost 1,00,000 words long.

Other known long poem "Pieces of Hope" by Patrick Huet, has nearly 7,600 verses written on a roll of fabric that stretches to almost one kilometer. The poem is not published. Other really long poems were written by ancient Persia or India poets and an example is, Mahabharata.

So here’s your turn. Don’t shy away from sharing your longest piece of poetry with me. I’d be pleased!

Twilight- by Stephenie Meyer

2009-03-14T18:51:00.005+05:30

After my examinations got over yesterday, I decided to lay my hands on a good book, and one of my book loving friends suggested that Twilight by Stephenie Meyer would be a good choice. I too had heard a lot about the book, so I decided to give it a try.

Twilight written by Stephanie Meyer is series of books about Vampire love story.

The theme of the novel pricked my interest. It is a teenage love story but the twist in it is that there's a blood drinking dangerous vampire existing!

It is a story about a teenager called Isabella Swan who has moved to Forks, Washington with her father Charlie. She abhors the new city, truly unlike Phoenix, where she lived earlier. She has no interest in her new school, new friends, until.....she meets a guy called Edward. Edward has intrigued her since she first set her eyes on him. Then they turn out to be Lab partners in Biology.

Edward has an exquisite beauty, and the way Stephenie describes it in the book is awe inspiring and out of the ordinary. His eyes are the basic communication for Bella. She initially learns that he abhors him with trying to change his class timings, disappearing for a week or more and then giving her frustrated looks.

When deep down she is resenting and anguished, he turns back to normal, and out of the ordinary gets talking to her courteously. And then Edward changed before her eyes...

Bella was unfortunately entangled in an accident, where Edward rescues her heroically. She was going to be run down by a van, when Edward comes and saves her. The troubling part is that the van was coming at full speed and Edward was nowhere near. Bella was certain that it was some sort of magic, that he rescued her, but Edward denied everything being anything other than ordinary.

Bella persuades him to disclose his secret, his exquisite beauty and looks unlike all others, everything about him was intriguing. Then they get to talking, and Bella slowly discovers that both love each other, and with the love comes another shocking revelation-

Edward was a blood thirsty vampire!!

The rest of the story revolves around how Edward protects her, how she gets approved by his family and how Edward stops himself. The scent of Bella blood always aroused him, bu his love for her, gave him the strength to overcome it.

Their relationship is thrown into bedlam when another vampire group comes to Forks. James, a tracker vampire who is intrigued by the Cullens' relationship with a human, wants to hunt Bella for sport. The Cullens attempt to distract the tracker by splitting up Bella and Edward, and Bella is sent to hide in a hotel in Phoenix.

The rest of the plot revolves around how Bella is rescued or caught and finally, her desire to trun into a vampire herself.

It is one of the most extraordinary and mystical plot you can come across. The author's narration is fabulous too. So what are you waiting for? Just go and grab a copy of this sensational novel !

A Personal Diary

2009-02-12T16:25:00.004+05:30

The Wikipedia describes the journal as a daily record of events or business; a private journal is usually referred to as a diary.

Do you all keep a journal? I have been keeping one since I was in grade 6. Often, in the beginning, I thought that it was a sheer waster of time, energy and ink. But then I realized how it wasn’t as I thought.

If you do not maintain a journal, here are ten reasons for you to do so immediately:

1. One does not always have a person in life with whom you can share any or everything. A diary can be the best of your friend and the worst of you critic. You can share anything with it, and express the deepest of your thoughts easily.

2. Anne Frank never imagined that every teenager would someday read her diary and get inspired. Even if yours is not read by others, you might be inspired by it yourself, nonetheless.

3. It is similar to talking to oneself, but talking to yourself in a café can be awkward or embarrassing. But certainly, writing a journal wouldn’t be inappropriate at all. Writing a memoir becomes an output of pure emotion; purer than you can ever imagine.

4. It might unexpectedly act as you inspiration for writing a story, novel or anything else.

5. You can write in second person and advice yourself or motivate yourself, like no one has ever done. You can be the best of your advisor or friend.

6. You can chill out with it too. Your journal can be anything- a friend, a guide, a cuppa coffee for refreshment, a relaxation, a way of refreshing your pent up mind.

7. It is a safe way to keep your secrets :P

8. While reading through yourself, you can analyze yourself and see through your invisibility. Often, one can be surprised at how well he/she writes too.

9. It’s the easiest way to go to bed with a sound mind.

10. You will always have someone in the time of need. I bet you will never feel lonely.

These days, the trend is to keep an online journal. You can keep a blog, which can be kept private or share it with the blogosphere. It is quite the same as a traditional dairy.

And to encourage you even further, there are different simple techniques that can be used.

You can write a dialogue journal which can be written as a letter to yourself when you are down in pits. When you find a solution to your problem, write another letter. This could serve as your own bank of wisdom.

You could write a gratitude journal, where you can make yourself realize that life is not always bad and there are good things that happen to you too. Write them all down in a diary. When you are feeling low, look into these pages and you’ll feel better.

You could even write a goal journal which is especially handy for those who can never stick to their resolutions. Goals are likely to be met if penned down.

Art Journals are for those whose creativity knows no bounds. Not one to use ink?? Use colors and paints and splash it all the way!

So get to work. Choose you journal today and start writing!

To Kill A Mockingbird- by Harper Lee

2009-02-03T16:12:00.005+05:30

I just keep on wondering why I did not review this book earlier.

To Kill A Mocking Bird- by Harper Lee is one of the most brilliant pieces of literary fiction I have ever read. It was the first and last book published by the author and also won a Pulitzer prize.

It deals with many serious issues like racial discrimination in America, but the style of writing is such, that all will enjoy it!

It is a story about a six-year-old Jean Scout Finch, who also narrates it in her lively and bubbly manner. She lives with her older brother Jem and their widowed father Atticus, a middle-aged lawyer. Jem and Scout become friends with a boy named Dill who visits Maycomb to stay with his aunt for the summer.

The three children are terrified of, and fascinated with, their neighbor, the solitary "Boo" Radley. The adults of Maycomb are hesitant to talk about Boo and for many years, few have seen him. The children feed each other's imaginations with rumors about his appearance and reasons for remaining hidden.

Soon, the children find that someone is leaving them small gifts in a tree outside the Radley place.

Atticus, her father, is assigned to defend a black man named Tom Robinson, who has been accused of molesting Mayella Ewell, a young white woman. Although many of Maycomb's citizens disapprove, Atticus agrees to defend Tom to the best of his ability. Other children taunt Jem and Scout for Atticus' actions, calling him a "nigger-lover". Scout is tempted to stand up for her father's honor by fighting, even though he has told her not to. For his part, Atticus faces a group of men intent on lynching Tom.

The book has a serious storyline which deals with aspects of racism, and involves other phases of violence and alienation. To Kill a Mockingbird is Harper Lee's classic novel which one cannot miss reading.

The novel is memorable because of the adventures and personal tumult the character undergoes in her development as a human being. Some characters reach out to millions of hearts with the veracity of cruelty in the world--with war, violence, death, racism, and hatred--while others deal with family, friends, or community issues.

The book is a unique, one of its kind read, that you cannot afford missing! It stands really high in my reading list.

My Writing Inspirations

2009-01-26T14:28:00.002+05:30

Reading my creative writing blog, Delve Into The Mind Of A Budding Blogger, many people have questioned me about my inspiration and ideas for writing? Where do I get the ideas? How do I cultivate them?

So today I decided to share it with you!

Inspirations for writing a story, poem or any other kind of article/ write-up depends upon a writer. Different writers acquire ideas by different ways.

For me, my ambience, the things happening around are enough to provide an idea.

Often writing prompts on the web are a big help!

I prefer writing while sitting in my garden, for the lovely blooming flowers and the beautiful view outside is a good source of inspiration.

My personal journal or diary is the biggest help, Flipping through the pages gives a number of ideas that keep swarming in the head!

It just depends on a person. If you observe and notice what happens around you might get a multitude of ideas, and then all is up to you, how you present it and how you develop the story line!

As I shared my ideas and inspirations, I would love to know how you get an idea for a particular story. Please post comments telling me about your sources for writing.

Reading Helps Improve Your Writing

2009-01-20T18:13:00.000+05:30

How did you learn to speak? By listening to others. How did you learn to walk? By watching others? How did you learn to eat and drink? By seeing how others do it.

So how will you learn to write? By reading!

That’s the logical and simplest answer of all. Many people believe that a writer is born but unfortunately, they are utterly mistaken.

A reader may be born, and thus develops a writer. If you want to write, you need to read!!

Reading a book is not utterly necessary. You can read the newspaper, scholarly articles on the net, poems, and other people’s works of fiction (like short stories). They may help improve your vocabulary and expose you to new writing styles.

Reading not only improves writing and knowledge but gives you an idea of the craft! It is important to read good books and retain them. You cannot absorb new ideas, improve vocabulary or writing unless you read.

Read, read and read…..that’s the best thing to do to improve writing.

Thinking further, I wouldn’t even have thought of writing until I read. Books are the gem of a writer’s life. They are far more valuable than a large pot of gold!

So reading is thus the basic for writing and a writer cannot improve until he reads!

Writing a mystery novel is not possible unless you read a mystery novel. A book/story is not born out of the air.

Only reading a book and forgetting about it may not help always.

When reading, always keep in mind to identify the genre and the author. Do a bit of additional research on the book, by reading reviews on the net. In a notepad, copy down the new words or phrases or sentences that you liked. Write your own thoughts about the book. Think how you could have molded it better.

I hope these tips help. Please share your ideas through comments!

10 Tips On How To Write For Children

Writing A Books Review!

How To Keep Your Writing Simple?

Writing Prompts For Kids

The Deep End Of The Ocean- by Jacquelyn Mitchard

2009-01-12T16:27:00.000+05:30

Recently one of my friends presented me with a book called The Deep End Of The Ocean written by Jacquelyn Mitchard.

Frankly, at first sight, I had not heard much about the author nor the book. Searching Wikipedia, I got good reviews and decided to go on reading the book.

And I’m glad I made that decision, for it was certainly a wonderful book. One which leaves an indelible impression on the mind.

It has a strange, enthralling storyline like you’ve never thought before.

The Deep End of the Ocean is a best-selling novel by Jacquelyn Mitchard, published in 1996. It is the wonderful story of a normal American middle class family that is having it’s share of problems in daily life.

But suddenly, their lives are torn apart when the youngest son is kidnapped. Wisconsin photographer and housewife Beth Cappadora is excited about a her high school reunion. She leaves her youngest son, Ben, alone with his older brother for a brief moment in a crowded Chicago hotel lobby. The older brother let go of Ben’s hand and when Beth returns…..her son has disappeared. Just vanished out of the blue!

Mental breakdown leads to shunning of her life and it is left to her husband -owner of a restaurant, Pat, to force his wife to mechanically care for their remaining two children, 7-year-old Vincent and infant daughter Kerry.

The first half of the story is based on Beth and Pat and how they struggle with their lives. Beth loosing all hopes. A mother, who feels that she has failed her lost son and her family. She feels stifled from the sympathy that she receives from people around her, yet without them she could never face the world again and try to move on. Friends and relatives frantically on the lookout for young Ben. The Police force helping as much as possible. Pat, on the other hand, positive and determined not loose life.

After nine years of struggle, the Cappadora family somehow manages to hold ground and has moved to Chicago. One day a young boy named Sam asks Beth if she needs the lawn mowed. And the unimaginable happens…….Ben lands up to be Sam.

The rest of the story revolves around how Ben adjusts to his new life, his attachment to his guardian father. The scenes between Vincent (and Ben) , who is not ready to accept a new brother, who feels guilty and some feelings that cannot be described…..are the most interesting.

The author has done a really unimaginable commendable job, writing from the thoughts of a teenager and a strangled mother. The book is certainly worth a read and I am sure you’ll praise it too!

How To Find A Creative And Suitable Title

2008-12-29T20:57:00.001+05:30

Whether it be a webpage, a book, a short story or even business articles- first impressions are often made on the creativity of the titles. And as they say, first impressions are the best impressions.

Whatever you do, please understand that titles hook the reader. If surfing the net, the reader will not waste time on a title that reads Harry Potter but something that says, Harry Potter- the 8^th Part! Everyone knows that there is no further sequel so the reader will be intrigued to read on.

Thus stands the creativity of the author in writing titles. Finding a creative and suitable title is pretty much a skill in itself.

Finished with a story and still confused about a suitable heading? This is a very common problem for me. So today I decided to share some tips with you that I prefer using when trapped in such a mess.

Usually, I read my write-up at at least thrice. It acts as a good revision, and along with, some lines or a phrase may strike you as a suitable title.

Be as tangy, wild and imaginative as possible. Go out to a garden, look around…..and who knows? But if yours is a moral article, often age old phrases are best preferred.

If nothing strikes you then too, then it is better to give your brain some rest and leave it alone for a day or two. Read your story again after a day and something is sure to thump you.

It’s often better to take help from friends. They might strike on the magic word you’ve been missing.

Or better, I’ve recently found many a sites for writing prompts which provide you with suitable headings based on which you form a story. I often use Serendipitous Story Title Generator or Title-O-Matic for this purpose

I hope these help! Do share your views and ideas.

10 Tips On How To Write For Children

Writing A Books Review!

How To Keep Your Writing Simple?

Writing Prompts For Kids

The Diary Of A Young Girl -by Anne Frank

2008-12-23T20:02:00.002+05:30

Recently, I read a heartrending novel which has impelled me to write about it. Though it has been a week since I have read it, the novel is intent on not leaving my mind. It has left a deep impression on my heart and soul.

The book is The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank.

“The Diary of a Young Girl” is a diary written by Anne Frank during the Second World War days. It begins from 14 June, 1942, when she was 13 years old to 1 August, 1944. When she died died in a concentration camp in Germany, Anne Frank was only fifteen. Through her diary, she tells us the problems faced during war; how lives would be anguished and how families would be shattered. The descriptions and emotions are so intense and captivating, written with the touch of an adolescent and teen, that you can ideate her life with your own eyes.

Anne Frank, though being a Jew, enjoyed a normal life before war, but when Holland was invaded by Germany, the anti-Jewish sentiments and the atrocities faced by the Jews, forced their families to move into hiding.

Anne and her family moved to Amsterdam in 1933 after the Nazis gained power in Germany, and were trapped by the occupation of the Netherlands when the government began to persecute Jews by the implementation of restrictive and discriminatory laws; mandatory registration and segregation soon followed. As persecutions against the Jewish population increased, the family went into hiding in July 1942 in hidden rooms in her father Otto Frank's office building.

They left their apartment in secrecy and at their hiding there was another family of the Von Daan, Mr. Deusel a dentist was also later included. Only Kugler, Kleiman, Gies, and Voskuijl were the employees who knew of the people in hiding, and helped them by visiting and bringing occasional presents and other needful.

All through the diary, Anne expresses her emotions wonderfully- her grief, her occasional bouts of happiness, her helpless struggle to be content, her gratefulness and her love.

She confides in her dairy as a friend, whom she calls Kitty. She writes letters to Kitty in her diary, telling about the atmosphere at the hiding and her thoughts and emotions.

In August 1944 their hiding place was discovered by the Gestapo, German Secret Police. All the eight members in the hiding were sent to concentration camps in Germany where all, except Otto Frank, died in the hands of Nazis. Anne Frank died in 1945 when she was only fifteen. Her diary was then circulated by her father.

The diary is really touching read telling about Anne Frank and her troubled relationship with her mom, her darling father, the slowly improving relationship with sister Margot. The strife they have with other dwellers at the hiding. All the suffering she had to go through, transformed Anne Frank from a young bubbly chattering thirteen year old to a serious, thoughtful and rational minded fifteen year old.

Her experiences are real life filled with hope and fear. The diary implies a sense of sympathy and is one of the best examples of the troubles during war time.

The diary, which was given to Anne on her 13th birthday, describes her life from 12 June 1942 until 1 August 1944. It has been translated into many languages, has become one of the world's most widely read books, and has been the basis for several plays and films. Anne Frank has been acknowledged for the quality of her writing, and has become one of the most renowned and most discussed victims of the Holocaust.

This book is a must read for all mothers, daughters, fathers and brothers. A re-read actaully. I bet a thousand bucks that it will impress one and all who read. It is as inspirational and touching as you can imagine.

Some Interesting Quotes

2008-12-16T04:09:00.001+05:30

Good quotes have always inspired me. Don't they have an enlightening effect on you too?? Quotes always incite you to think and stimulate your brain cells. Often hidden in quotes are inspirational thoughts and ideas, which often motivate one and all to ponder or write.

So today, I share with you, some inspirational and funny quotes worth reading!

No smile is so beautiful as the one that struggles through tears. -- Margaret Fishback Powers
I always thought why somebody didn't do anything about that....then I realized, I was SOMEBODY! --Anonymous
NOBODY "is" Perfect, and I am NOBODY!
When someone throws a stone at you, throw back a flower-- M.K Gandhi..........But remember to throw it along with the pot! - Today's Youth!
If you tell a guy that there are 300 billion stars in the universe, he will believe you; but if you tell him the park bench has been painted, he'll have to touch it to be sure!
In the new generation, even pizza comes before police.
Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light. -- Helen Keller
The bus stops at a bus station, the trains tops at a train station …..And my desk is a work-station!
You are the window through which you must see the world -- Laura Ingalls Wilder
Men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing ever happened. -- Winston Churchill
You never get ahead of anyone as long as you try to get even with him. -- Lou Holtz
There are two types of employees: Those who do the work and those who take the credit. Try to be in the first group; there is much less competition there. -- Indira Gandhi
Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly. -- Langston Hughes
I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can still do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something I can do." -- Edward Everett
The only trouble with being punctual is that there is no one to appreciate it!

Hope you enjoyed reading. Do YOU have any more interesting quotes to share?? I'd love to read more :)

Book Meme

2008-12-10T17:28:00.000+05:30

This is my first tag for my blog, The Writing Pages.

I have been tagged by Zawan at Zawan's Blog.

It is a book meme and I have to answer some questions related to books.

What was the last book you bought?
Ummmmm…..I guess it was from the book fair in our city. Yup, it was Angels and Demons LOL! I know I was pretty late but now my Brown collection is complete!

Name a book you have read MORE than once
Arabian Nights?? I had this craze of reading short stories over and over again when I was 7 or 8 years old

Has a book ever fundamentally changed the way you see life? If yes, what was it?
Nopes…..I don't read such kind of books. Actually, I think those kind of books go above my head but I liked My Experiments With Truth- M.K Gandhi

How do you choose a book? eg. by cover design and summary, recommendations or reviews
By recommendations and reviews I suppose. My dad and friends are a great help!

Do you prefer Fiction or Non-Fiction?
I read mostly fiction and like them loads. I like Medical fiction and science- fiction too.

What's more important in a novel - beautiful writing or a gripping plot?
Ummm…..both I guess. A good plot isn't understood until it is beautifully expressed.

Most loved/memorable character (character/book)
Harry Potter by J.K Rowling, Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Hercule Poirot by Agatha Christie, Eragon- By Paolini. Even Frank and Joe Hardy- by Franklin W. Dixon.

Which book or books can be found on your nightstand at the moment?
I don't have that kind of nightstand. Dad asks me to put books back into the shelf after I've read them!

What was the last book you've read, and when was it?
The last book I read was from the school library, Nor M? by Agatha Christie

Have you ever given up on a book half way in?
Yep, Pride and Prejudice….I find classics a bit boring, though I've enjoyed reading many too!

An Inspiring Award

2008-12-07T10:57:00.004+05:30

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Deb, who has given me this very special Arte y Pico Award for my creativity and talent. I'm honored Deb!

:smiling: :proud: :happy:

(sorry- I can't tell you how I feel actually) :D

The meaning of Arte y Pico Award is something like: WOW! The best art. Over the top.

I cannot express my gratitude to you in words, Deb. Deb Gallardo is a wonderful writer with a writing blog that is very inspiring and creative. It's one of the best blogs I've read till date. I'm sure you all would enjoy visiting!

Thanks a lot Deb. I hope I can keep up the good work and deserve many more such awards.

Now, I would like to confer this award to some excellent writers. Here they are:

Joanna Young at Confident Writing
Susan Johnston at The Urban Muse
Linda Formichelli at The Renegade Writer Blog
James at Men With Pens
Nathan Bransford at Nathan Bransford

I am sure most of my readers might be regular visitors to these blogs. If not, have a look at them and enjoy reading.

Langston Hughes

2008-11-30T18:36:00.004+05:30

Do you all know who Langston Hughes is? Langston Hughes was a poet and great writer whose works have been admired and looked upon by many amateurs. To read more on this famous African -American author and poet, please visit Wikipedia

The great poet, playwright, novelist, essayist or all-rounder in literary luminary, Langston Hughes achieved fame during the Harlem Renaissance. But do you know how or what he did earlier than that? I bet you do not, so I come here today to share some interesting tit-bits with you!

Before he became famous, Hughes was a common struggling writer, doing some or the other small job to support his promising poetry.

A common day in the year 1925, while working at a restaurant in Washington D.C., something got into him and Hughes arranged some of his poems under the dinner plate of then potent poet, Vachel Lindsay. The mesmerized and pleased Lindsay, shared the poems during his reading that night, and in the morning, Hughes was crowned Lindsay's new discovery, the "busboy poet."

By his hard work and talent, Hughes went on to become one of America's most prolific authors.

Phrases - How Did They Originate?

2008-11-22T11:20:00.007+05:30

You might have often been intrigued by many phrases. But ever wondered what was the tale behind their origin? I went on a searching spree and discovered some interesting origins of phrases, that you might never have thought of. So keep guessing while you read!

Raining Cats And Dogs

This means raining very heavily Though the origin is still controversial, some say that the abominable drainage system of buildings in the 15th century caused drains to run over, emitting out garbage and a few unanticipated rubbish. Thus, animals might have lived in the thatched roofs and when it rained heavily, the dead remains would fall! And maybe some even had some dead dogs and cats hit their heads, thus giving birth to the phrase. Anyways, this certainly is a strange way to describe the weather, eh?

Bet Your Bottom Dollar

It means to bet your last coin. This phrase may have originated in saloons of the American Wild West where poker players and other gamblers piled their prize/money in front of them as they played. The suggestion was to go ahead, bet the last of your money. Surprisingly, it was first noticed in the La Crosse Independent Republican, September 1856: "I'm goin' to vote for you [James Polk] - you can bet your bottom dollar on that!"

Pushing the envelope

It means to approach or exceed known performance boundaries. It is believed to have been originated from the USAF test pilot program. It meant flying an aircraft at or beyond its known routine restrictions or recommended limits.

Fit to be tied

It means being furious. This phrase originated when the practice of tying irrepressible and often hazardous people was followed.

Wing and a prayer

It refers to being hopeful but unlikely to succeed. It originated during the First World War, celebrating the return of an American Flyer who came back safely in spite of a badly injured wing.

Pass the buck

It refers to passing off responsibility to someone else. It originated from a game of cards. A marker known as a buck is used in card games to mark the player who is the existing dealer. When the buck is passed to the next player, the responsibility for dealing is passed.

Stink to high heaven

It means to have a very strong odor. This expression originated from the well-known Shakespearean play 'Hamlet'. From a dialogue uttered by Hamlet's Uncle, the King of Denmark - "O, my offense is rank, it smells to heaven; It hath the primal eldest curse upon it, A brother's murder."

Face the music

It refers to accepting the truth. It originated from the British Military practice of playing the drums when someone was court marshaled.

I have a bone to pick with you

Which means, I have an unpleasant matter to settle with you. It is believed to have originated when at the marriage banquets of the Sicilian poor, the bride's father, after the meal, used to hand the bridegroom a bone, saying, "Pick this bone, for you have taken in hand a much harder task." Another origin might be from the British where a bone to pick was a profitable appointment given to a difficult opponent in order to silence him. The reference is to throwing a bone to a dog to keep him from barking at you.

To read more origins of phrases, the best site I can suggest is "The Phrase Finder". Do read many more phrases and any more interesting information regarding their origins, is welcome. So all game to share your knowledge with me through comments? Any additions to the list are welcome!

10 Tips On How To Write A Book Review!

2008-11-18T21:02:00.002+05:30

“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends;
they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors,
and the most patient of teachers.”
- Charles W. Eliot

Books are the life and soul of a writer, author or even a blogger. Life without books seems unfeasible. And every second person reading a website or blog, needs a good book to read. So why not for a change, review a recent book you read and provide your reader with a chance to learn.

Do not know how to write a book review? Do not worry! Here are 10 tips that might help you out!

1. Read your book thoroughly

One cannot become a doctor without having the particular qualifications. In a similar fashion, it is necessary that you have knowledge about your subject before you are keen to write or share about it.

2. Gather more information

Though you might be knowing all about the book that you thought important, before embarking on writing a review, it is always better to read more about the book from Wikipedia or read another review of the book from the net. This help might prove valuable.

3. Make a rough draft

Write a rough outline of the plot, the flaws or anything that you find worthy of wiring. Only then, should you get to editing it and adding the additional information.

4. Be unique

While writing a book review, it is important that the reader is not reading a review of someone else. Often, reviewers tend to find the easiest way out by just copying down the book information/review at the back cover and camouflaging it ingeniously as their own!

5. Never reveal the whole plot

I have noticed often that writers tend to find it exciting to reveal the major or minor secrets of the plot (This applies to fiction stories, novels etc.). My fun of reading the last Harry Potter book had been spoiled for mostly the readers had leaked the secrets of the novel on the net. Please care about the excitement that a reader experiences so do not reveal the whole plot but as much as you think you would have liked to know if you were reading the review.

6. Add your own element

The main point of writing a review is letting the reader know what YOU think about it. So remember to write down any improvement in the book you think possible and all flaws or good points about the book.

7. Remember the author

I have read reviews where the plot and everything else about the book is mentioned, but unfortunately the reviewer forgets to tell about the author.Be sure to credit or criticize (as you think likely) the author. Whatever you do, do not leave him out….after all, it is he who created the book and some credit is certainly not denied!

8. Be sure you are catering to the right audience

Do not go writing a book review of Harry potter on a technical blog. Though it would be good, if you pointed out or included about the book in a post but try not to completely linger from your blog content, just to fill in posts!

9. Your Judgement

A final verdict on whether you think the reader should spend money on the book is necessary. If you do not think so, please write that aptly in your post.

10. Rate the Book

I do not do this in my posts but now I too have decided to include that. If you are keen on writing reviews, a wonderful idea is the rate the book on a scale of 5 or 10. The audience might get a better idea!

Whether these tips proved to be helpful or not, I would be grateful if you could share through your valuable comments. Any additions or suggestions are welcome.

Top 10 Tips On Writing For Children

2008-11-08T06:54:00.001+05:30

A young and vital child knows no limit to his own will, and it is the only reality to him. It is not that he wants at the outset to fight other wills, but that they simply do not exist for him. Like the artist, he goes forth to the work of creation, gloriously alone.
- Jane Harrison

Writing for kids sounds really easy, but those who do, know it is not as easy as one thinks. "Kids are like sponges. They absorb everything you give them and their thirst never ends.

Writing for kids is pretty different from any normal genre of writing. One has to keep in mind that they are dropping flowers in empty baskets and only bright and vibrant flowers will make an empty basket look beautiful.

The various genres of children's books include picture books, baby books, easy readers, transition books, books for middle grade children and young adults etc.

Here are ten tips you should remember to follow while penning down stories for kids:

1. Write With Positive Vibes

Remember, the book you are developing should help the kid to grow up. Keep in mind that the story has positive vibes for a kid, and remember not to use any kind of austerity in the narration. The kids will dislike it more than you think.

2. Easy To Read

Make it easy. Keep the plot uncomplicated and not so intricate and the moral, simple to understand. The language should be easy for a kid to read but remember to use some words here and there which enhance a kids vocabulary.

3. Use Imagination

Try using your imagination. Add fantasy elements. Kids are young and enchanted by the wonders of magic. Try using something, new, unique and innovative in your plot.

4. Interesting Moral Stories

Write moral stories but remember not to make them boring. Kids usually tend to get bored if there is too much accentuation on a particular thing. Tips on how to write children's stories is an interesting arrticle you might find worth visiting.

5. Something To Stand Out of the Crowd

There are many writers in this genre and every one is better than the other. So if you are writing professionally, remember to have something unique that stands out of the crowd.

6. Connect With Kids

Use elements that kids connect to. Write about naughty kids, pranks, teachers, school, nature with fantasy elements and other things.

7. No Sleepy Story

Try not to make the story sleepy. Read it over thrice yourself and think over it again if you have to stifle a yawn! The writing should be visually appealing to children for which you may use plenty of interesting pictures.

8. Use Appropriate, Relevant Story

Remember that you write anything that is appropriate for a child to read. The theme should have relevance to kids.

9. Be the Teacher-cum-Guardian

Try not to forget that you are not giving instructions as a teacher but consultation and guidance as a guardian.

10. Make Them Laugh

Use humor to entertain them and generate interest. Make them laugh, Use humor, is an article that might give you valuable tips.

But remember yourself - the first and foremost requirement for a good writing for children is - be a kid yourself.

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