Brookline Writes!

Brookline Public Library Authors' Collaborative produces Brookline Writes, a series of lively panel discussions about books, hosted by Peggy Hogan, a partner in Flying Point Press. It airs on Brookline Access TV, Channel 3.

Season 2

The Art and Craft of Writing Mysteries

October 2008: Mondays – 2:00PM, Tuesdays- 2:00AM, Wednesdays – 8:00AM and 8:00PM, Sundays at 4:30AM and 2:00PM

Guests: Linda Barnes (Lie Down with the Devil), Sarah Smith (Chasing Shakespeares), and Mike Borgos (Void Where Prohibited)

Each of these authors has a unique style and approach. Linda’s most recent work is twelfth in a series featuring Boston-based detective Carlotta Carlyle. Sarah places her mysteries in historical settings. Mike’s novel concerns a murder within a family. Yet despite these differing perspectives, all agree that the key to the most engaging mysteries is not “who done it” but rather the creation of interesting, believable characters that the reader comes to care about. When human emotions and passions grip these characters, they grip the reader as well. Beyond that, the panel delves into such wide ranging aspects of mystery writing as the importance of vivid settings, the procedural aspects of crime and criminal justice, the role of research in getting facts straight, and the fine art of sustaining reader interest through multiple volumes in a series.

Season 1

Writing As a Second Career

Premiere: Sunday, February 3, 2008 at 2:30 pm
Guests: Mike Borgos, Susie Davidson, James Doyle
Need to write but can't quit your day job? This edition of Brookline Writes! is for you. Can you put in the time necessary to complete and edit a manuscript while still devoting the necessary energy to your primary career? Is it fair to take time away from your family so you can claim the solitude necessary to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard)? What if research imposes a significant expense? What about self-censorship in order to avoid offending other people in your life? Brookline authors who have been through this mill share their insights in the program airing in February.

The Writing Process

Premiere: Sunday, March 2, 2008 at 2:30pm
Guests: Jonatha Ceely, Jessica Keener, Sarah Smith
Writing is a joy; no, it's a struggle. A blank page is panic and despair; no, a blank page is an invitation to adventure. Writing is work; no, it's fun. It is frustrating. It is satisfying. Try all of the above! In this edition of Brookline Writes!, experienced Brookline authors share their insights into the writing craft. Best of all, they will impart practical advice on such topics as outlining (or not), helpful software, revising, and overcoming writer's block. A "must see" for novices and pros alike. Check it out in March.

Getting Published

Premiere: Sunday, April 6, 2008 at 2:30pm
Guests: Ephraim Figueroa, Daniel M. Kimmel, Clint Richmond
That's the point of it all, isn't it? Seeing your work in print? Making a little money, perhaps? But if you think the writing process is frustrating, then wait until you try to break into the commercial publishing game! Fortunately, Brookline Writes! is here to help. Experienced Brookline authors provide tips on the traditional route to the bookstore shelves: finding an agent, negotiating a contract, dealing with an editor. They will also discuss the alternatives: self-publishing, print on demand, and small publishers. Airing in April.

Marketing Your Book

Premiere: Sunday, May 4, 2008 at 2:30pm
Guests: Patrick Gabridge, Trisha Gura, Sarah Smith
This writer's job is far from finished when his work is in print. If nobody knows about your book, nobody will read it. If you are already famous, then skip this edition of Brookline Writes! Your publisher will arrange a book tour, get you on TV, and pitch your latest opus at the next booksellers' convention. If that isn't you, then you'll have to roll up your sleeves and get to work. On this edition, Brookline authors will share their secrets: how to get readings, how to get reviews, and how to get your book into the hands of readers. Airing in May.