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Contextual Moments Blog

Writing a Story is Like Going on a Date

Writing a Story is Like Going on a Date
by Irmgarde Brown
So says little known Indian author, Pawan Mishra. But I’m thinking he has a point as I ponder my own style. Here’s the truth: when an idea drops into my mind, it pours out of me like water from a bucket. Let me explain...

Looking Through the Fog

Looking Through the Fog
by Irmgarde Brown

I have now had several opportunities to chat with people who have read my book and I am gratified when they pick up on one of the core themes that is underneath the "miracle" story: self-discovery. Jane Freedle had no idea who she really was by the time of her husband's death. For most of her life, she had been under the thumb of two men in her life, her father and then her husband. 

What the? Time is Flying!

What the? Time is Flying!
by Irmgarde Brown
Here's what's new:
  • Sister Jane received a starred review from Kirkus Reviews. 
  • Sister Jane is now available in four major library systems in Maryland (Harford, Baltimore, Carroll, and Cecil). More to come. 
  • I have made several personal appearances and I have half a dozen book club appearances in the next two months. 
  • My book is available in several locations in town and I've had people yelling from across a street, "Irm, I LOVE your book!" It's quite humbling. 
  • Last week, I recorded my first podcast interview which will air Sept 13th. 

Launch Party Success!

Launch Party Success!
by Irmgarde Brown
What a wonderful day at the Launch Party. Thanks to all friends and families who made this event such a success. The Price House was a perfect venue for the party as it represents some of the most beautiful Victorian homes in the area. And although Sister Jane does not take place "exactly" in our lovely city, there are many similarities. The biggest laugh of the day came when someone asked me if any of the characters in my book were based on "real people" and I answered, "Everyone!" Streaming event was recorded (fast forward recommended - LOL)  https://youtu.be/UUilOzrg-bw
 

What a Character!

What a Character!
by Irmgarde Brown

               Quite a few “characters” have floated in and out of my life. I’m sure you could say the same. They are the colorful bits; they are the ones we remember for a long time.

                Charlie rented one of our rooms on Park Avenue when I was a child. He had what I now know was a trigger finger, his ring finger, on his right hand. He was a heavy smoker and spent a lot of time hanging out on our porch. Gruff and grizzly, most of the time, he indulged a 2nd grader who had lots and lots of questions. And then he was gone.

Genres. Who Needs Them? Do You?

Genres. Who Needs Them? Do You?
by Irmgarde Brown

We are in a culture of labels.

We label people and attitudes and houses and neighborhoods and cities. And of course, books. In some cases, I’m aware that labels can be helpful. I certainly appreciate finding the right size clothing and I confess, if I’m at the used clothing store, I gravitate to familiar labels/brands. I’m glad that foods are labeled with nutrition facts and whether they are spicey. I’m grateful for the “skull & crossbones” to warn me of poisons and toxic materials.

But honestly, haven’t we taken this labeling a bit too far?

Miracles as Viral News

Miracles as Viral News
by Irmgarde Brown
I wonder, if you read in the newspaper or heard on the nightly news about a woman who was working miracles, would you believe it? Would it matter which newspaper or television network carried the story? What if your friend told you about it? What if someone you knew had a miraculous healing? What would it take for you to believe?

Is This Book About Me?

Is This Book About Me?
by Irmgarde Brown

When I give my little “elevator” speech about Sister Jane, I feel compelled to mention that she is, a) an older woman and b) grew up in a small town.

One friend immediately asked me, “what’s older?” I’m afraid to answer that. I know, whether I like it or not, that I am considered older. My worst birthday year was not when I turned fifty, but fify-five. At that point (although I think this category has since changed), I would be in the great miasma of fifty-five and up. I would be in that last check box. Now, if that doesn’t make a poor girl feel old, I don’t know what does. I’m curious what you all think? And although the last check box has changed, I’ve managed to grow into that one as well.

 

How Sister Jane, The Book, Was Born

How Sister Jane, The Book, Was Born
by Irmgarde Brown
Which way is the best way to write and publish a book? How many versions of a book are started and cast aside? And why write a book instead of a short story or a magazine article or a blog post? These are just three of many questions that writers and wannabe writers face as we look at the blank screen. 

We read memoirs and articles about writers - we want to be inspired. We attend conferences and subscribe to writer's magazines - we want to be encouraged. We talk about writing, a lot!