Alex Mar is a writer and skeptic. Like many people in her age bracket, she doesn’t feel a connection to the religion in which she was raised. But she envies those who do — in particular, the witches. Witches of America is a chronicle of Mar’s exploration of witchcraft, from its (surprisingly contemporary) roots to…
The Write Stuff: Excuses, Excuses
As The Write Stuff wheezes itself into month seven, I’m having trouble focusing. I’ve done a lot of adulting lately (e.g., moving, writing large checks, and talking with my husband endlessly about “house stuff”), which is apparently worse for my creative output than even my negative self-talk. Goal 1: Finish four short stories in 2017…
Words, Words, Words
Speech 1: The Ice Breaker. The first speech of the Toastmasters Competent Communicator program is about introducing myself to the group, providing a benchmark for my current skill level, and standing and speaking without vomiting or passing out. Mr/Madam Toastmaster, fellow members, and guests. I’ve spent most of my life fighting with the voices in…
Review: A Little Princess
Sara has led a life many children can only dream of, surrounded by every comfort and a papa who adores her. She is not eager to attend the English boarding school in which her father has enrolled her, but knows that she should face any adversity like a brave soldier. When her father dies in…
Quickie Review: Laughing All the Way to Crazytown
We moved 10 days ago. All our boxes are unpacked, we’ve got power and interwebz, the commute to work is smooth sailing. We also have no washer and dryer, no curtains, and my bank account is lookin’ real sad. Such is life. Between moving and having a couple meltdowns about moving, I’ve actually managed to…