From Laura's Pocket Guide to Eastern Europe: Poland and the Ukraine

First of all, Writer's Bloc (Rutgers), with its ever-changing format and constant wit, is one of the most engaging lit venues around. I'm super pleased that my "Pocket Guide" has found a home in the latest issue alongside the work of rock stars like Jimmy Chen and Ben White.

Another Pocket Guide was published over at Hobart a long while back--to Belize City & Beyond, and for a while there I thought I'd do a collection of pocket guides, but then three things stopped me-1) they're super hard to write. 2) the EasternEuro guide enjoyed double digit rejections. 3)Kuzhali Manickavel did it better.

Pura Vida

I think I like the idea of being a “regional’ writer, even though my native region—Northeastern Ohio—lacks the detail required for fiction. I have one very long Ohio story that queases me out so much I identify the setting as Indiana. I strongly prefer to write about places I’ve visited, from the point of view of permanent visitors (moved there, or are returning after a long absence)—characters with the privilege of critical margin. I have to admit though, that I favor characters who can vacate their regions without losing identity, and I am keenly aware that my drama is limited by the escape hatches I install.

I learned this week that Hobart online has accepted one of my stories. Don’t know when it’ll go up, but I’m thrilled. The story is about Belize, Guatemala, and the perilous romance of travel. Stay tuned.

ah!!!! do I freaking LOVE this!!!

Shane Jones' "I Will Unfold You with my Hairy Hands"
from the notables list. (cheered up now)