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Novel Ecologies: Nature Remade and the Illusions of Tech
by Allison CarruthTracing the convergence of ecology and engineering over the last three decades, this book pinpoints a new environmental paradigm that the author calls Nature Remade. Allison Carruth’s Novel Ecologies shows how the tech industry has taken up the wilderness mythologies that shaped one strain of American environmentalism over the last century. Calling this twenty-first-century environmental imagination Nature Remade, Carruth describes a distinctly West Coast framework that is at once nostalgic and futuristic. Through three case studies (synthetic wildlife, the digital cloud, and space colonization), the book shows Nature Remade to be a quasi-religious belief in venture capitalism and big tech. This paradigm thus imagines a future in which species, ecosystems, and entire planets are re-generated and re-created through engineering. Novel Ecologies challenges the conviction that climate change and other environmental crises must be met with ever larger-scale forms of technological intervention. Against the new worlds conjured by Google, Meta, Open AI, Amazon, SpaceX, and a host of lesser-known start-ups, Carruth marshals writers and artists who imagine provisionally hopeful environmental futures while refusing to forget the histories that have made the world what it is. On this track of the book, Carruth discusses the works of Octavia Butler, Becky Chambers, Jennifer Egan, Ruth Ozeki, Craig Santos Perez, Tracy K. Smith, Jeff VanderMeer, Saya Woolfalk, and many more. Their novels, poems, installation artworks, and expressive media offer a speculative world built on livable communities rather than engineered lifeforms.
Novel Pedagogy: The Novel and Educational Publications in Victorian Britain (SUNY series, Studies in the Long Nineteenth Century)
by Liwen ZhangIs the novel a category of knowledge that merits serious study? Even if the novel has shed the stigma of being mindless entertainment, one might easily assume that reading a novel is not "studying," unless one reads closely and carefully, preferably from a scholarly edition or for a scholarly purpose. Novel Pedagogy explores how Victorian writers envisioned the novel's potential to become knowledge long before the form’s ascendence into the ivory tower. Liwen Zhang argues that Victorian novelists' constant critique of schooling, on the one hand, and their frequent invocation of deep knowledge, on the other, are not self-contradictory. Instead of offering a blissful escape from education, writers such as William Thackeray, Charles Kingsley, Charles Dickens, Elizabeth Gaskell, George Eliot, and George Gissing seek to offer uniquely novelistic pathways to knowledge. Novel Pedagogy offers a new model of novelistic epistemology by showing how the novel, unlike other educational genres, reflects on the unpleasant realities of learning—and of not learning—amid the ubiquity of ineffective textbooks, reluctant students, and false motivations.
Novel Schooling: Education, Formation, and Reading in Fiction
by Bridget T. ChalkThis book identifies and explores the consistent link between negative depictions of education in novels and claims for the educative effects of reading them. The novel and education are both phenomena that rely fundamentally on development over time: the former in plot and character, and the latter in individual potential. Despite this basic parallel, these forms of development are at odds in many works of fiction that treat education as constrictive and even traumatic to the individual, rather than healthy and formative. Novel Schooling identifies a pervasive pattern in novels from the 19th to 21st centuries: writers ranging from Charles Dickens and D.H. Lawrence to Zadie Smith reject conventional modes of education and propose their own models for shaping the sensibilities of their characters and readers. These works critique institutional education as a point of departure to position reading fiction as a superior form of individual development. Using the new ethics and reader-response theory, this work traces the treatment of education in and through the novel, concluding with fresh assertions of the value of literature in a digital, market-driven world.
Novelty, Innovation and Transformation in Educational Ethnographic Research: European Perspectives
by Jürgen Budde Anke Wischmann Georg Rißler Michael Meier-SternbergThis edited volume tackles the theoretical, empirical and methodological questions of how novelty can be determined in and through educational ethnographic research.Responding to the increasing need for new and innovative methodological and theoretical foundations for the field, chapters draw on a variety of empirical, critically examined data sets such as observation protocols of pedagogical practice, digital communication and visual representations to bridge the gap between empirical and theoretical approaches, ultimately combining different traditions and discourses within educational ethnography. Collating perspectives and accounts from over 30 authors based in European centers of excellence such as Germany, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Italy, Austria and Denmark, the book provides an epistemological reflection on what we can understand as ‘new’ in theoretical and methodological research.This volume will be of use to researchers, academics and postgraduate students involved with research methods in education, ethnography and the theory of education more broadly. Those involved with research design, innovation and European research methods will also find the volume of use.The Open Access version of this book, available at www.taylorfrancis.com, has been made available under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives (CC-BY-NC-ND) 4.0 license. Any third party material in this book is not included in the OA Creative Commons license, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. Please direct any permissions enquiries to the original rightsholder. We would like to thank the Europa-Universität Flensburg, the Fördergesellschaft der Uni Flensburg e.v. and the Research Centre for Education, Teaching, School and Socialization for financial support.
Novena, Hymns and Prayers to Our Mother of Perpetual Help
by Redemptorist FathersDevout clients of our Blessed Lady will perhaps desire to know what is the meaning of a Novena, or when such a pious practice was first introduced?The practice of making a Novena, or nine days’ prayer, dates back to the time when our Blessed Lady and the Apostles, after the ascension of our Lord into heaven, remained nine days in prayer, in preparation for the coming of the Holy Ghost.Ever since that time it has been a pious custom of the faithful to make Novenas in commemoration of some mystery in the life of our Lord, or in honor of the Blessed Virgin, or some Saint for whom they have particular devotion, hoping thereby to obtain some special grace or favor, through the intercession of these privileged friends of God.During the last quarter of a century, perhaps the most popular Novena among all classes of the faithful throughout the entire Christian world, is in honor of our dear and Immaculate Mother, under the sweet and consoling title of “Our Lady of Perpetual Help,” and Mary, on her part, has ever shown herself to justify that beautiful title, as thousands in all parts of the globe can testify, who have received extra ordinary favors, both spiritual and temporal, when invoking her intercession.
Novice Teachers Embracing Wobble in Standardized Schools: Using Dialogue and Inquiry for Self-Reflection and Growth
by Bob Fecho Dawan Coombs Trevor Thomas Stewart Todd S. HawleyA critical resource for pre-service and practicing teachers, this book addresses what happens when new teachers try to enact inquiry-based and dialogical pedagogy within standardized schools. Exploring the narratives from beginning ELA and humanities teachers when they encounter challenges and obstructions, this book explores moments of wobble—key events that called attention to practice in the context of inflexible schooling systems—that the teachers shared with their peers via an oral inquiry process (OIP) to help them unpack and understand their experiences. This book advocates for the continued use and enhancement of mentoring and induction initiatives, particularly those that recognize the expressed concerns of novice teachers, no matter what their pedagogical stance might be. By sharing novice teachers’ "wobble stories" and their outcomes, this book provides a pathway for teachers’ continued self-reflection and growth for the duration of their careers. The authors offer a reflective, adaptable, and easy-to-use process that places teachers in control of their own professional learning. The beliefs and structures examined in this text support the intentions of all teachers who work from a learning-centered perspective and wish to take some ownership of their professional development.
Novice Writers and Scholarly Publication: Authors, Mentors, Gatekeepers
by Ken Hyland Pejman HabibieThis book draws on the perspectives of authors, supervisors, reviewers and editors to present a rich, nuanced picture of the practices and challenges involved in writing for scholarly publication. Organized into four sections, it brings together international experts and junior scholars from a variety of disciplines to examine both publishing experiences and current research in the field. In doing so, it challenges the view that Native English speakers have a relatively easy ride in this process and that it is only English as an Additional Language (EAL) scholars who experience difficulties. The volume highlights central themes of writing for publication, including mentoring and collaborative writing, the writing experience, text mediation, the review process, journal practices and editorial decision-making, and makes a strong case for taking a more inclusive approach to research in this domain. This edited collection will appeal to students and scholars of applied linguistics, English for academic purposes, academic writing, and second language writing.
Now Choose Life: Theology and Ethics in Deuteronomy (New Studies in Biblical Theology #Volume 6)
by Gary MillarThough written thousands of years ago, the book of Deuteronomy is unmatched in its relevance for the affluent Western church of today. Moses' words were meant to equip God's people for living godly lives in a prosperous, pluralistic world. The cultural changes now taking place in our own social setting make the parallel between Israel and the church—and what Deuteronomy has to say—both pertinent and instructive. This New Studies in Biblical Theology volume offers a significant study of Deuteronomy that recovers this Scripture's vibrant message for the contemporary Christian community. Showing the major contribution that Deuteronomy makes to our understanding of the Bible as a whole, J. Gary Millar explores Deuteronomy's ethical teaching in the light of its most important theological themes: covenant, journey, law, the nations and human nature. His perceptive analysis reveals the power with which Deuteronomy calls God's covenant people, from ancient Israelites to modern-day Christians, to hear God's voice and do his will. Whether read for its critical study of Scripture or for its practical insights into living faithfully today, this book will be a valuable resource for school, church and home. Addressing key issues in biblical theology, the works comprising New Studies in Biblical Theology are creative attempts to help Christians better understand their Bibles. The NSBT series is edited by D. A. Carson, aiming to simultaneously instruct and to edify, to interact with current scholarship and to point the way ahead.
Now Hiring: A Story of Four Teens Finding Their First Jobs Third Edition
by Noreen E. MessinaNow Hiring focuses on the journey of four fictional teens trying to find part-time jobs. From résumés to interviews to on-the-job success, your students will learn along with the characters.
Now I'm Reading! Level 1: Animal Antics
by Nora Gaydos B. B. SamsTEACH YOUR CHILD TO READ WHILE HAVING FUN! Simple, patterned stories and strong picture cues help children build essential skills in Level 1 of this award-winning learn-to-read series.The Now I'm Reading! books offer a comprehensive approach that integrates the best of phonics and storytelling to help young readers take the first steps toward independent reading success.In LEVEL 1: ANIMAL ANTICS, children learn essential phonics skills while reading humorous stories featuring fun animal heros. Stories 1-5 focus on mostly three-letter short-vowel words, some consonant blends, and early sight words. Stories 6-10 progress to mostly four-letter short-vowel words, plus additional sight words and consonant blends. All stories feature hilarious pictures and stories that will have children excited to read them again and again!Inside this eBook, you'll find:· 10 stories with colorful illustrations and engaging text· "After You Read" extended activity sections· A Parent/Teacher Guide to help you figure out the best ways to use these booksPerfect for ages 4 and up! Level 1 NIR readers focus on short-vowel sounds, simple consonant sounds, and beginning sight word introduction.The concepts and skill progression in the NIR series are aligned to meet Common Core State Standards. This book is Fountas & Pinnell Leveled with a range of C-F; information on individual booklet levels and Lexile Measures is available at the Now I'm Reading website.
Now I'm Reading! Level 1: Playful Pals
by Nora Gaydos B. B. SamsTEACH YOUR CHILD TO READ WHILE HAVING FUN! Simple, patterned stories and strong picture cues help children build essential skills in Level 1 of this award-winning learn-to-read series.The Now I'm Reading! books offer a comprehensive approach that integrates the best of phonics and storytelling to help little ones take the first steps toward independent reading success.In LEVEL 1: PLAYFUL PALS, children learn essential phonics skills while reading humorous stories featuring fun animal heroes. The stories focus on short-vowel words, consonant blends, and early sight words. Each story uses three- and four-letter words to keep the text age-appropriate, and is "just right" for building self-confidence along with skill!Inside this eBook, you'll find:· 10 stories with colorful illustrations and engaging text· "After You Read" extended activity sections· A Parent/Teacher Guide to help you figure out the best ways to use these booksPerfect for ages 4 and up! Level 1 NIR readers focus on short-vowel sounds,simple consonant sounds, and beginning sight words.The concepts and skill progression in the NIR series are aligned to meet Common Core State Standards. This book is Fountas & Pinnell Leveled with a range of D-F; information on individual booklet levels and Lexile Measures is available at the Now I'm Reading website.
Now I'm Reading! Level 2: Amazing Animals
by Nora Gaydos B. B. SamsLEARN TO READ WHILE HAVING FUN! Level 2 of this award-winning learn-to-read series continues to help children develop the skills they need for independent reading success.The Now I'm Reading! books offer a comprehensive approach that integrates the best of phonics and storytelling to help young readers take their first steps toward reading success.In LEVEL 2: AMAZING ANIMALS, children learn essential phonics skills while reading humorous stories featuring fun animal heroes--like an ape baking a cake for his date, a goat in a boat that won't float, and more! Using an effective step-by-step approach that pairs patterned text with strong picture cues, the stories in this collection introduce children to long-vowel sounds, consonant blends, word endings, and key sight words.Inside this eBook, you'll find:· 10 stories with colorful illustrations and engaging text· "After You Read" extended activity sections· A Parent/Teacher Guide to help you figure out the best ways to use these booksPerfect for ages 4 and up! Level 2 NIR readers focus on long- and short-vowel sounds, expanded simple consonant sounds, and beginning sight word reinforcement.The concepts and skill progression in the NIR series are aligned to meet Common Core State Standards. This book is Fountas & Pinnell Leveled with a range of E-G; information on individual booklet levels and Lexile Measures is available at the Now I'm Reading website.
Now I'm Reading! Level 2: Snack Attack
by Nora Gaydos B. B. SamsLEARN TO READ WHILE HAVING FUN! Level 2 of this award-winning learn-to-read series continues to help children develop the skills they need for independent reading success.The Now I'm Reading! books offer a comprehensive approach that integrates the best of phonics and storytelling to help young readers take their first steps toward reading success.Yum, snacks! In LEVEL 2: SNACK ATTACK, children learn essential phonics skills while reading humorous stories featuring fun animal heroes. Using an effective step-by-step approach that pairs patterned text with strong picture cues, the stories in this collection introduce children to long-vowel sounds, consonant blends, sight words, and word endings.Inside this eBook, you'll find:· 10 stories with colorful illustrations and engaging text· "After You Read" extended activity sections· A Parent/Teacher Guide to help you figure out the best ways to use these booksPerfect for ages 4 and up! Level 2 NIR readers focus on long- and short-vowelsounds, expanded simple consonant sounds, and beginning sight word reinforcement. The concepts and skill progression in the NIR! series are aligned to meet Common Core State Standards. This book is Fountas & Pinnell Leveled with a range of D-H; information on individual booklet levels and Lexile Measures is available at the Now I'm Reading website.
Now I'm Reading! Pre-Reader: Look Around!
by Nora Gaydos B. B. SamsTEACH YOUR CHILD TO READ WHILE HAVING FUN! Simple sentences and strong picture cues help guide young children to reading success with this award-winning learn-to-read series.What could be more exciting than hearing your child read a book to you for the first time? The Now I'm Reading! books for emerging readers are just right for children who want to read but aren't quite ready to sound out words using phonics. At the Pre-Reader level, each of the 10 stories in LOOK AROUND! uses a proven system of simple, patterned text and strong visual cues to build confidence in the earliest readers. Each story focuses on a specific early-learning concept (like colors, animals, family, and shapes) to help kids feel like "real" readers as they learn simple sight words and reading habits.Inside this eBook, you'll find:· 10 stories with colorful illustrations and engaging text· "Words to Know" and "Stretch Your Mind" activity sections· A Parent/Teacher Guide to help you figure out the best ways to use these booksPerfect for ages 3 and up! Books in the NIR Pre-Reader Level focus on read-along stories, strong picture clues, predictable patterned text, and letter and sound recognition.The concepts and skill progression in the NIR! series are aligned to meet Common Core State Standards. This book is Fountas & Pinnell Level A/B; information on individual booklet levels and Lexile Measures is available at the Now I'm Reading website.
Now I'm Reading! Pre-Reader: My World
by Nora Gaydos B. B. SamsTEACH YOUR CHILD TO READ WHILE HAVING FUN! Simple sentences and strong picture cues help guide young children to reading success with this award-winning learn-to-read series.What could be more exciting than hearing your child read a book to you for the first time? The Now I'm Reading! books for emerging readers are just right for children who want to read but aren't quite ready to sound out words using phonics. Each of the 10 stories in PRE-READER: MY WORLD uses a proven system of simple, patterned text and strong picture cues to build confidence in the earliest readers. Each booklet focuses on a specific early-learning concept (like opposites, farm animals, and movement) to help kids feel like "real" readers as they learn simple sight words.Inside this eBook, you'll find:· 10 story booklets with colorful illustrations and engaging text· 40 reward stickers to encourage completion and rereading· "Words to Know" and "Stretch Your Mind" activity sections· Parent/Teacher Guide to help you figure out the best ways to use these booksPerfect for ages 3 and up! Books in the NIR Pre-Reader Level focus on read-along stories, strong picture clues, predictable patterned text, and letter and sound recognition.The concepts and skill progression in the NIR! series are aligned to meet Common Core State Standards. This book is Fountas & Pinnell Level A-E; information on individual booklet levels and Lexile Measures is available at the Now I'm Reading website.
Now I'm Reading! Pre-Reader: Word Play
by Mary Sullivan Nora GaydosTEACH YOUR CHILD TO READ WHILE HAVING FUN! Simple sentences and strong picture cues help guide young children to reading success with this award-winning learn-to-read series.What could be more exciting than hearing your child read a book to you for the first time? The Now I'm Reading! books for emerging readers are just right for children who want to read but aren't quite ready to sound out words using phonics.Each of the 8 stories in PRE-READER: WORD PLAY uses a proven system of simple, patterned text and strong picture cues to build confidence in the earliest readers. Each booklet focuses on at least 2 specific high-frequency sight words, which are introduced in an appropriate and organized sequence.Inside the CD binder-like package, you'll find:· 8 stories with engaging text and fun illustrations· "Words to Know" and "Stretch Your Mind" activity sections· Parent/Teacher Guide to help get the most out of each story· Activity Book with suggestions for ways to expand your pre-reader's skillsPerfect for ages 3 and up! Books in the NIR Pre-Reader Level focus on read-along stories, strong picture clues, predictable patterned text, and letter and sound recognition.The concepts and skill progression in the NIR! series are aligned to meet Common Core State Standards. This book is Fountas & Pinnell Level LB-A; information on individual booklet levels and Lexile Measures is available at the Now I'm Reading website.
Now My Eyes Have Seen You: Images of Creation and Evil in the Book of Job (New Studies in Biblical Theology #Vol. 12)
by Robert Fyallper se
Now We Get It!
by Sharon Vaughn Janette K. Klingner Alison Boardman Elizabeth SwansonA proven method for teaching reading skills in mixed-ability classroomsCollaborative Strategic Reading is an innovative new approach to teaching reading that weaves together two instructional programs: cooperative learning and reading comprehension strategy instruction. In small groups, students work through the four main steps-Preview, "Click and Clunk," Get the Gist, and Wrap Up-helping each other improve comprehension and increase reading fluency. This book offers a hands-on guide to implementing CSR in grades 4 through 12. It includes sample dialogues for teachers to use during instruction, ready-to-use activities, a wealth of classroom-ready materials, and tips for training on CSR.Bonus web content includes a PowerPoint presentation on CSR and short video clips. A proven program for improving reading skills in mixed-ability classroomsJanette Klingner and bestselling author Sharon Vaughn are the originators of CSRCSR recently won a highly coveted i3 (Investing in Innovation) grant from the U.S. Department of EducationHow to Teach Collaborative Strategic Reading helps educators, reading specialists, and staff developers create better readers through CSR.
Now We Read, We See, We Speak: Portrait of Literacy Development in an Adult Freirean-Based Class
by Victoria Purcell-Gates Robin A. WatermanNow We Read, We See, We Speak compellingly captures eight women's progress toward empowerment through a Freirean-based literacy class in rural El Salvador and, in the process, provides telling lessons for literacy and adult educators around the world. This book fills a real gap in the educational literature on critical theory and literacy teaching and learning. For the first time, we have a multi-layered description and analysis of a literacy class based on Freirean precepts and principles, through the perspective of "traditional" literacy theory and as interpreted through a literacy development lens. This allows us to consider how the adult students learned to read and write within a classroom context that embodies such Freirean precepts as dialogic teacher/student relations; respect for and knowledge of the learners' lives, language and culture; and intentionality about social-political change. Thus, this book is directed toward literacy practitioners, teachers, and researchers who may have heard or read about critical theory but have a need for concrete examples of the methodological implications of such theory. Enlivening this account is the compelling description of the histories and lives of the students in the literacy class campesinos women who have survived a brutal and devastating civil war in El Salvador and who, nevertheless, stepped forward to work with a U.S.-trained literacy teacher, Robin Waterman, to learn to read and write for purposes of personal and sociocultural empowerment. The authors provide a highly readable presentation of the historical and cultural contexts for the women and the literacy class. They also raise issues of socioeconomic marginalization, unequal power relationships, and gender as they relate to literacy development. Basing their account on meticulously gathered and analyzed ethnographic data, Purcell-Gates and Waterman go beyond the presentation of the study to suggest implications and issues for adult literacy education in the United States, linking their findings to current topics in adult education, as well as literacy development in general.
Now What: 5 Steps to Get Up and Create the Most of Life
by Ahmard Moore VitalNow What? A question that often comes from rock bottom requires a strategy that looks at solutions, building a ladder one rung at a time to escape despair and uncertainty.Known for his work as a motivational consultant, international speaker and author, Ahmard Vital is excited to offer a hand to those seeking hope and purpose. With simple and calculated solution-based steps, Now What is a focused guide for young adults who want concrete, practical solutions to their problems. Whether they’ve been raised in troubled homes, embroiled in the criminal justice system, or advanced to the university level with no clear career path, Now What is designed to help them steer their life towards productive and preferred fulfillment. This strategic, thought-provoking, and empowering manual is broken into two phases: the Intention Phase (Reflect, Decide, Plan) and the Initiative Phase (Taking Action, Seek Counsel). According to Ahmard Vital, too many young adults today extend their adolescence into their 20s and early 30s without gaining necessary skills and maturity. Now What addresses these aspects of maturation: decision making, personal responsibility, delayed gratification, hard work, and embracing the tradeoffs of life, so that they can thrive as they enter adulthood.
Now What? Confronting Uncomfortable Truths About Inequity in Schools: A Leadership Rubric for Action
by Carmella S. Franco Maria G. Ott Darline P. RoblesNavigate barriers and take actional steps toward equity The principles of Cultural Proficiency have guided our drive toward equitable schools for decades. Leaders who apply this framework to scrutinize the beliefs and practices that have caused disproportionate harm to children of color and other marginalized students are frequently left with the question: "Now What?" Using their unique insights and life experiences as Latina superintendents, the authors of Now What? Confronting Uncomfortable Truths About Inequity in Schools present a guide to navigating barriers, managing differences, and creating an actionable equity plan. Readers will find: a "What Next" guide for leaders at all levels to leverage Cultural Proficiency a Culturally Proficient Leadership Rubric for promoting growth an 8-Step Process to help educators gauge status and progress of their equity plan a discussion of the impact of COVID-19 on educational transformation, as well as heightened awareness of injustice, including the Black Lives Matter movement and mistreatment of immigrant children and families Cultural Proficiency begins with us. By focusing on our beliefs and biases, and taking actionable steps, we can become more proficient at eliminating barriers.
Now What? Confronting Uncomfortable Truths About Inequity in Schools: A Leadership Rubric for Action
by Carmella S. Franco Maria G. Ott Darline P. RoblesNavigate barriers and take actional steps toward equity The principles of Cultural Proficiency have guided our drive toward equitable schools for decades. Leaders who apply this framework to scrutinize the beliefs and practices that have caused disproportionate harm to children of color and other marginalized students are frequently left with the question: "Now What?" Using their unique insights and life experiences as Latina superintendents, the authors of Now What? Confronting Uncomfortable Truths About Inequity in Schools present a guide to navigating barriers, managing differences, and creating an actionable equity plan. Readers will find: a "What Next" guide for leaders at all levels to leverage Cultural Proficiency a Culturally Proficient Leadership Rubric for promoting growth an 8-Step Process to help educators gauge status and progress of their equity plan a discussion of the impact of COVID-19 on educational transformation, as well as heightened awareness of injustice, including the Black Lives Matter movement and mistreatment of immigrant children and families Cultural Proficiency begins with us. By focusing on our beliefs and biases, and taking actionable steps, we can become more proficient at eliminating barriers.
Now What? Confronting and Resolving Ethical Questions: A Handbook for Teachers
by Sarah V. Mackenzie G. Calvin MackenzieWritten by an educator and a national authority on ethics and featuring detailed real-life case studies, this volume outlines the relationship between ethical practices and school success.
Now What? Confronting and Resolving Ethical Questions: A Handbook for Teachers
by Sarah V. Mackenzie G. Calvin MackenzieWritten by an educator and a national authority on ethics and featuring detailed real-life case studies, this volume outlines the relationship between ethical practices and school success.
Now Write!
by Sherry EllisA collection of personal writing exercises and commentary from some of today's best novelists, short story writers, and writing teachers, including Jill McCorkle, Amy Bloom, Robert Olen Butler, Steve Almond, Jayne Anne Phillips, Virgil Suarez, Margot Livesay, and more. What's the secret behind the successful and prolific careers of critically acclaimed novelists and short story writers Amy Bloom, Steve Almond, Jayne Anne Phillips, Alison Lurie, and others? Divine assistance? Otherworldly talent? An unsettlingly close relationship with the Muse? While the rest of us are staring at blank sheets of paper, struggling to come up with a first sentence, these writers are busy polishing off story after story and novel after novel. Despite producing work that may seem effortless, all of them have a simple technique for fending off writer's block: the writing exercise. In Now Write!, Sherry Ellis collects the personal writing exercises of today's best writers and lays bare the secret to their success. - In "The Photograph," Jill McCorkle divulges one of her tactics for handling material that takes plots in a million different directions; - National Book Award-nominee Amy Bloom offers "Water Buddies," an exercise for writers practicing their craft in workshops; - Steve Almond, author of My Life in Heavy Metal and Candyfreak, provides a way to avoiding purple prose in "The Five-Second Shortcut to Writing in the Lyric Register"; - and eighty-three more of the country's top writers disclose their strategies for creating memorable prose. Complemented by brief commentary from the authors themselves, the exercises in Now Write! are practical and hands-on. By encouraging writers to shamelessly steal proven techniques that have yielded books which have won National Book Awards, Pulitzers, and Guggenheim grants, Now Write! inspires the aspiring writer to write now. .