What Doesn’t Kill You

I am sixteen, sitting sun-warmed against the stucco wall of the school library, hearing my voice shake as I schedule an appointment at Planned Parenthood. I am six weeks pregnant and scared out of my mind.

The NEH, Racism, Good Editors, and Me

There’s always room to be more explicit when it comes to identifying oppressive structures in our work.

Your Book Tour

Here’s what happens when you tell people you’re going on book tour: Their eyes widen like they’re picturing private jets and limousines, booksellers laying stock to be signed at your feet, adoring fans queued up out the door. They congratulate you—assuming you have “made it.” You try not to let the lunatic edge invade your laughter … Continue reading Your Book Tour

The Long, Hard, Elegant, Easy, Stupid, Creative Way

I read something this week that really ticked me off. I’ve been building my page on Goodreads as I gear up to put 100 Demon Dialogues into the world, which partly means leaving lots of reviews for creators whose work I admire. If you follow me on Patreon you’ll know Deb Norton because I interviewed … Continue reading The Long, Hard, Elegant, Easy, Stupid, Creative Way

New Essay: “Sexy Lucy”

“So, I have a challenge for you.” I’m sitting on the couch scarfing pomegranate seeds and ice cream while my gentleman friend looks up from doing the crossword. “I’d love to see you draw Sexy Lucy. I mean, if you want to. If you think it would be fun.” I laugh through a mouthful of … Continue reading New Essay: “Sexy Lucy”