The elusive Great American Novel. You’ve heard the term. What does it mean to you? And, in current American culture, is the term becoming outdated?
Author Archives: Ed A. Murray
What are the benefits (and cons) of using a pen name?
Some of the best authors, such as J.K. Rowling, Stephen King and Mark Twain, have used pseudonyms. But why? This calls for a pros and cons list.
Read These 5 Books About Writing to Become a Better Writer
Reading about writing can actually make you a better writer. Start with these 5 books about writing to help hone the craft of writing.
Bookshop.org: An indie alternative to online book shopping
We are running out of time to save local, indie bookstores. Finally, a new online book retailer is here to fight for the little guy. Let’s support it.
Never Pass a Pub With Your Name On It: An Irish-American Story
According to Pete McCarthy, the late comedian and travel writer, you never pass a pub with your name on it. My wife and I traveled to Ireland to prove it.
7 writing lessons: What a home renovation taught me about writing a book
Before tackling that next big project, understand these 7 steps to ensuring a successful final product.
Writing advice from famous authors: Should you listen?
When it comes to crafting your next book, where will you turn to find great writing advice? Here’s a lesson in learning lessons from the pros.
3 simple tips for finding the time to write
We are all living busier and busier lives, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be finding the time to write. That novel isn’t going to draft itself!
Debut Michigan Author Samantha Hohnstadt Pens Striking Travel Memoir
In 2016, Samantha Hohnstadt flew to Europe, mind set on finding her family’s roots. From this unforgettable adventure came her memoir The Flavor of Wine.
Book Review: Mitch Albom’s Newest Book ‘Finding Chika’ Tells Heartfelt Story
Sometimes, the people we least expect to enter our lives have the greatest impact. It’s a lesson we learned in Tuesdays With Morrie, and it’s extremely evident in Mitch Albom’s newest book Finding Chika.
What’s the importance of word count in writing?
Is it too long? Too short? Just right? Who’s to say? Let’s diagnose just how important word count really is when writing a story.
Showtime to produce ‘American Rust’ TV series from Philipp Meyer novel
Philipp Meyer has received his second TV adaptation, with Showtime picking up the American Rust TV series. Previously, AMC produced The Son in 2017.
10 Best Non-Fiction Books to Add to Your Reading List
Influencial memoirs convey truly powerful messages. Here is a list of the best non-fiction books to add to your reading list.
Ranking the 5 Best John Steinbeck Books
Both brilliant and controversial, it’s hard to argue John Steinbeck’s place near the top of classic American literature. But of his most famous books, which is his crowning achievement?
Hemingway Up in Michigan: The Birth of Nick Adams and a Literary Legend
Ernest Hemingway is one of the greatest American authors. But the tale of his childhood in northern Michigan goes largely untold.
How to find writing inspiration: My personal journey
You could ask any writer. I’m sure they could tell you how they begin their writing process. But where do they find their writing inspiration? Maybe inspiration strikes like lightning — the entire story, right there in their mind, neatly wrapped with a bow. Maybe they have a nugget of an idea and begin toContinue reading “How to find writing inspiration: My personal journey”
Ranking the Best Mitch Albom Books
One of the greatest writers of his generation, Mitch Albom has mastered the “magical realism” sub-genre. Let’s count down the best Mitch Albom books.
Ranking the 5 Best Ernest Hemingway Books
Ernest Hemingway was one of the greatest authors in the history of American literature. Let’s countdown some of the best Hemingway books.
Paul Howarth’s ‘Only Killers and Thieves’: An Honest Book Review
Frequently compared to Philipp Meyer’s The Son, Paul Howarth’s debut novel Only Killers and Thieves should be the next book on your reading list.
The art of reading: Appreciating a good book
For all intents and purposes, many of my recent posts were about appreciating the art of writing. Now I want to appreciate the art of reading.
