Query Letter Blues

Dear Author, We regret to inform you that we must reject your submission on the basis that your query letter sucks. Sincerely, Honest Agent I’ve often boasted that I can write anything well. At least, that’s what I tell prospective freelance clients. But I...

Following Your Own Path

My dear readers, I have a confession to make. I’m not part of the local literary scene. The closest I’ve ever come is being part of a writers’ critique group, but even then, I was the odd one out. I understand being crazy about books. I always have a...

Exceeding Your Own Expectations

Dear readers, Well, I did it! I returned to my dojo after a three month+ hiatus, taken to recover from a broken wrist. It rained all day, but I refused to let the weather dampen my intentions. (As I take the bus, the weather quite often provides a handy excuse for...
Death, Dismemberment, and Adipoceric Goo!

Death, Dismemberment, and Adipoceric Goo!

A Forensic Anthropologist Answers Your Questions You asked, and Finch answered! Here, at long last, are the answers to your gory questions. I don’t recommend reading them while eating lunch. 1. Elspeth Cross: Is there a point where DNA can no longer be taken...

Brushes With Greatness

Something interesting happened to me today. After the heaviness of some of this week’s posts, I decided that today’s would be about something lighter…namely, the books I’m reading in my (very limited) spare time. One of my all-time favorite...

The Power of Story

I had to work late for my day job tonight, and the last thing I ever expected to receive in return was an important lesson on storytelling. My city is holding the first ever national event of reconciliation for the survivors of residential schools. I’m very...

Losing It

Dear readers, I really need to get back to the gym. Although I’ll be a little nervous and hesitant when Monday afternoon rolls around, I’ll be so happy to return to kickboxing. For those of you who struggle with weight, with motivation to exercise, or with...

The Good Book

Dear Readers, This question goes out to all of you…whether you consider yourself a writer or not. What book changed your life? Is there a volume that you refer to again and again, until it’s dogeared? For me, the answer to this question is easy. (As you...

So Angry I Could Cry

Dear Readers, As the majority of you know, this is a new blog. It’s still finding its way in the world, and it was created to celebrate one woman’s journey, yes–but also a journey I hope that everyone can relate to in their own way. However, if...

Life Imitates Art

I find it a wonderful coincidence that–just as I’m writing a book about a woman searching for a long-lost childhood friend–I suddenly find my own. Carla and I were only seven when she moved to Vancouver…too little to really understand that we...