Corn Dollies

As many of you know, I am a doll collector with a large collection planning a museum, hence my blogs Dr. E's Doll Museum and Doll Museum. I will probaly copy this information there as well. I love the most unusual dolls best; corn dollies fit into that category. Many are not even of human shape; they are abstract, many circular or triangular, two geometric shapes associate with women's bodies. They play a role in the harvest festival, and often were kept in the home for one year, then burned, and a new doll was displayed. I first read about them in Volume D, "Dolls" of the 1956 World Book Encyclopedia. Among my other collections, I collect Volume D and other doll related volumes of old sets of encyclopedias Von Boehn, Laura Starr, Mary Hillier, and Leslie Gordon also write about them, and they are featured in books on crafts and Wicca. There is a book that comes up on Google images, too. Below is a history from a site in Wales that I was very impressed with. They also sell. Enjoy reading this timely and seasonal piece about a beloved craft.

A little bit of Folklore

SHORT HISTORY Corn dollies date back to pagan times. Straw symbols, such as corn dollies or the harvest maid have always been associated with the gathering in of the crops. They were made in the field from the last sheaf, and many different designs came about from various areas.

In the early part of the 19thC, English farmers in rural areas were carrying out ceremonies of which the original meaning was completely lost. Eg: the worship of the goddess of the corn. The art of making the corn dolly was handed down from father to son, and the whole ceremony ended with the triumphant return of the last load with the corn dolly held in the arms of the prettiest girl in the village. It was then hung up in the farmhouse until the following year. There are many variations of this story.

Corn dollies made from wheat, is what the peoples of the British Isles call “corn”, it has deep pagan symbolic roots. Corn dollies are given for many occasions. A rattle could be given for the birth of a child or for a naming ceremony (christening). There are many House Blessings which make a lovely gift at any time, especially for Weddings and people moving house. Corn dollies seem to be getting more popular with a different variety of uses, for eg: Wearing the dollies hanging on belts, or decorating a hat with, wearing them as necklaces or bracelets or brooches, you can easily modify them for your own personal use, Harpers & Queen used my dollies in a photo shoot. Country Homes & Garden displayed one of my dollies in their October 2006 issue. World of Interiors magazine May 2009 has one of my Harvest Mothers on display. The traditional corn dolly often called a `Nek` is one I recommend for fertility, all though all corn dollies are connected to fertility and our mother the earth. The Harvest Mother is very symbolic of Mother Earth and often used in pagan or wicca rituals. Scottish TV has used my corn dollies in childrens programmes. Diva Opera Company has used one of my dollies in their production of Eugene Onegin by Tchaikowsky. It was used in the scene where the peasants come in from Harvest and they present the dolly to the owner of the estate. If you go to Jamie Olivers restaurant Fifteen's Trattoria you should find a couple of my dollies hanging up amongst the dried chillies. A collection of my dollies were used for the London and Paris Fashion Show September 2009 for Designer Vivienne Westwood. best; corn dollies fit into that category. Many are not even of human shape; they are abstract, many circular or triangular, two geometric shapes associate with women's bodies. They play a role in the harvest festival, and often were kept in the home for one year, then burned, and a new doll was displayed. I first read about them in Volume D, "Dolls" of the 1956 World Book Encyclopedia. Among my other collections, I collect Volume D and other doll related volumes of old sets of encyclopedias Von Boehn, Laura Starr, Mary Hillier, and Leslie Gordon also write about them, and they are featured in books on crafts and Wicca. There is a book that comes up on Google images, too. Below is a history from a site in Wales that I was very impressed with. They also sell. Enjoy reading this timely and seasonal piece about a beloved craft.

Ode to my Red Gel Pen

Ode to my Red Gel Pen Hail to thee, gelatinous muse, Paper’s life’s blood inks crimson hues. River of life for words my way, Filling my page with thoughts That would sway. Staining my fingers, my clothing, Bright red, Sending rouge beacons of prose Through my head. You prod my calendar’s memory With check marks so bright, You mark out my errors, Grammatical plights, To my students, red writer, Dread angel of praise, Friend or foe, grim reaper Of F’s or of A’s For many lost scholars, You’ve helped make the grade. Scarlet river runs deep My thoughts-not so much, Without you clasped tightly, My fingers lose touch.

Miss Charlotte Bronte meets Miss Barbara Pym: Memoir; Writing your Life Story: From Pro Blogger

Miss Charlotte Bronte meets Miss Barbara Pym: Memoir; Writing your Life Story: From Pro Blogger: Memoir; Writing your Life Story: From Pro Blogger : A good writing prompt for memoir: 1. Where were you September 11, 2001? 2. Describe your...

So much to write, so little time!

My mind is like a partially shattered jigsaw puzzle these days. Some pieces connect, most barely dangle by their hinges. The dangling chads have nothing over my thought processes. I have lots to write and post about my recent forays to the aquarium, and reading of Rachel Carson, Muir, Thoreau, Evelyn White, and others. I've pondered a lot the distinctions, if any, between scientists and naturalist, and have experienced the joy of delving enthusiastically into disciplines long admired, but no necessarily my own-- or are they? Microbiologists, scientists in general, seem to have a lot in common with miniaturists, that deliberate focus, painting on one inch pieces of ivory, as Jane Austen may have called it, living in the intense miniature worlds of Thoreau's ant wars. Ture miniaturists devoted to scale work under magnifying glasses and microscopes, too. There world is infintisemal, and the question becomes how do all those tiny parts fit into the whole. Reading Wordsworth, Whitman, looking outside, especially at waterways with new eyes. Then feeling uncontrollable rage at how my child with special needs is being treated by our own Dist. 41, my mother's place of employ nearly 40 years, my alma mater. Boycotting band and all activites by one "Maestro" Karlyn, because he can't seem to realize that Band is about music appreication, and tolerance, and love of music, not how many haf-a___d awards the director can stuff into his merit file. I wish upon his miserable children and himself the bad treatment my child is receiving at his hands, the after effects of his immature outbursts, his bad temper, the abusive us/them atmosphere he is creating in a group of children who should be learning harmony, musical and otherwise. Dist 41, RI/M, shame on you; you violate the ADA with each blast of your foul, collective, corporate breath! Enough; I think of little ways of saving water, of recycling, of picking up the litter others throw when I can, and I do it. I tell my kids to turn over old ads and used papers and use them as notepaper, something we did in school even in the 70s, with no one telling us to. One of the architechts behind the EPA died this week, and I hope to post the obit soon. We can take a lesson from him; the evironment is not a political issue; it is a life issue. He was a moderate republican and passionate environmentalist who brought about many reforms. Still watch cooking shows passionately, but no time for now to cook or develop recipes. I hope to do more by the holidays, for there is a certain peace and spirituality for me, a connectedness, in creating my mother's recipes, or making up my own. There is indeed peace in the kitchen, ad I often forget time and miseries when I'm there.

Memoir; Writing your Life Story: From Pro Blogger

Memoir; Writing your Life Story: From Pro Blogger: A good writing prompt for memoir: 1. Where were you September 11, 2001? 2. Describe your favorite childhood routine? Who was there? Wha...

An Apologia for Countess Erzebet Bathory: Some Lyrics and Songs inspired by Erzebet

An Apologia for Countess Erzebet Bathory: Some Lyrics and Songs inspired by Erzebet: All lyrics written by Dani Filth, all music composed by Cradle of Filth. No. Title Length 1. "Once Upon Atrocity" (Instrumental) 1:42 ...

Barbara Kingsolver on Food nad eating Local

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle While I don't always agree with her politics, I find her a valuable and intriguing author. I've taught her in classes and mentioned her in my bibliography on dolls. I've watched her TV interviews and admired her poise, and had one moment of seren dipity when I wanted to read The Poisonwood Bible and the next hour, it turned up at a church rummage sale. Have not felt well at all; this is the time to turn to my books and my dolls, to things that I love and that nourish the soul. Enjoy: About Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life Since its release in May 2007, Animal Vegetable, Miracle has helped launch a modern transition in America’s attitudes toward food. In this lively account of a family’s locavore year on their farm in Southern Appalachia, Barbara Kingsolver and her coauthors unearth the secret lives of vegetables and the unexpected satisfactions of knowing their food producers — and sometimes their dinner — on a first-name basis. A Family Collaboration The family’s year long experience leads them through a season of planting, pulling weeds, expanding their kitchen skills, harvesting their own animals, joining the effort to save heritage crops from extinction, and learning the time-honored rural art of unloading excess zucchini. Barbara Kingsolver’s engaging narrative is enriched by husband Steven Hopp’s in-depth reports on the science and industry of food, and daughter Camille’s youthful perspective on cooking and food culture. Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life makes a passionate case for putting the kitchen back at the center of family life, and diversified farms at the center of the American diet. http://animalvegetablemiracle.com/book.htm

Dr. E's Doll Museum Blog: Wonderful Blog

Dr. E's Doll Museum Blog: Wonderful Blog: This artist does fantastic work with antique ephemera, found objects, dolls, miniatures, and vintage holiday ornmanents. Enjoy! http://ull...

The Autumn of our Discontents

For those of us who love to read, books, Kindle, Kindle Fire, Nook, whatever. More and more books are done of recycled paper. This is always hopeful. Have also been exploring new horizons and helping scientist friend do soil and water samples, watching caterpillars grow from larvae, collecting leaves and rocks, potting and pruning. Reading a lot on conservation of water, and about industries, farming, chocolate making, gold mining, that require huge amounts. Also seriously into nature writing, and I recommend the Norton Anthology of Nature Writing. All this brings peace, and spirituality, and a closeness to things not retail and man made. But, I do love my books, and my piles of papers and articles, and my stolen moments consist of settling down with Emma Cat and some good coffee on a cold afternoon, just to read. Or, to sit outside on my patio, as the world dies and dyes itself colors, as a magic carpet of red Japanese maple leaves surround me, reading till the light fades.

The Author's Bookshelf **************************************************************** WANT TO AVOID THE TOP 5 DEATHBED REGRETS OF WRITERS? You can, when you ask yourself five important questions. Stephen King and J.K. Rowling did this, and look where they are now. Find out how to get the writer's life you've only imagined and avoid regret. http://www.awaionline.com/go/index.php?ad=605048 ***************************************************************** WRITE FOR CHILDREN. Achieve your dream of becoming a published author. Writing books and stories for children is a great place to start. Learn the secrets 1-on-1 from a pro writer. Train online or by mail. Free Test offered. http://www.writingforchildren.com/H3146 ***************************************************************** THOUSANDS OF WRITERS USE FANSTORY.COM FOR: * Feedback. Get feedback for every poem and story that you write. * Contests. Over 40 contests are always open and free to enter. * Rankings. Statistics will show you how your writing is doing. http://www.fanstory.com/index1.jsp?at=38 ***************************************************************** DON'T GET SCAMMED! Choose the right Self Publishing Company for your book. What you need to know before choosing a self publishing company and the questions you should ask. http://dogearpublishing.net/self-publishing-companies.aspx ***************************************************************** YOU WILL NETWORK WITH 30+ EDITORS Over 400 editors contribute their unique news and views each year. That's news and views to improve your chances to get published. Monthly newsletter. Get 2 issues FREE. http://www.thechildrenswriter.com/AY461 ***************************************************************** BOOK TEMPLATES REDUCE YOUR WORK AND WRITING MISTAKES. Formatted Word book templates are a godsend for writers. Templates for eBooks, Kindle, PDF, MOBI, printed books, and more. Available in all popular sizes. See them now at: http://www.booktemplate.org/ ***************************************************************** COLUMN: CRAFTING FABULOUS FICTION, by Victoria Grossack Stories within Stories ================================================================= A great novel is often not a single story, but rather a complex and artistically arranged compilation of one, two, or many stories. This column takes a look at some of the ways you can weave stories together, and some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with the different methods. Frame Stories ------------- Usually set apart from the rest of the novel, a frame story often sets up how and why the story is told. The events of the frame story often occur in a different time than the rest of the novel. Often there is a prologue at the beginning, and an epilogue at the end. In some books, the frame story is revisited periodically throughout the novel. Frame stories have been around for centuries, probably millennia. A famous example is "One Thousand and One Nights," in which the Persian king was so angry with women that he married a new virgin every day and killed her the next morning. Only the vizier's daughter, Scheherazade, kept her head by telling her murderous husband part of a thrilling new story every night --and not telling him the end until the next night. (How many of us would want to rely on our storytelling abilities to save our lives?) Another celebrated example is Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," in which a diverse group of pilgrims en route to Canterbury hold a storytelling contest. Prologues and epilogues allow you to give additional information, or extra perspectives on your story. You can use the prologue to create a level playing field. For example, in our novel, "Jocasta: The Mother-Wife of Oedipus," we mention in the prologue that Jocasta inadvertently married her son, Oedipus. In a way we did not like to write this because it's the "big surprise" of the novel --but plenty of people are familiar with the Oedipus myth anyway, and besides, we were explicit about the incestuous relationship in the title of the book. So, by telling people this in the prologue, we were able to set up why Jocasta finally spills the secrets of her life. However, you should be warned that some readers don't bother to read the prologue or the epilogue -- especially not the prologue! They seem to feel that it is not part of the story; perhaps they confuse it with dedications, acknowledgements and prefaces. One way to avoid any misunderstandings is to rename your prologue "Chapter One." In a way this is cheating, but heck, who cares? Nests ----- Frequently stories are nested within other stories. The frame story is generally the outermost story, in which the rest of your novel --either one long main story or a series of other stories --is nested. However, some authors have more than one layer of nesting. They begin the first story, which we'll call *A.* Before *A* is finished, they break off to start story *B.* And before *B* is finished, they break off to start story *C.* The author can continue with this approach, adding more layers. Eventually, one hopes, the story will return to the original threads, and resolve, generally in reverse sequence, the issues raised in *C,* *B,* and *A.* This approach can add depth and perspective. However, it can also be a strain on your readers, as they try to keep the different stories straight. Even when *A,* *B* and *C* contain the same characters, they may be taking place at different times, or from different points of view. This kind of book can be challenging to read, and you should ask yourself: is it TOO challenging for my readers? You should also ask yourself what each level of nest adds to your entire book. Sometimes each level is crucial to what you are trying to achieve. Other times, however, it seems to indicate that the author could not make up his or her mind on which story to tell. Other times the author seems to be procrastinating telling the real story. Serial Stories in a Single Place -------------------------------- Another approach is to tell a series of stories, often about a place. This technique was perfected by James Michener, who often chose a particular spot on the planet, began with the geological processes that formed it, and then continue with various animals and people until reaching the present day. The same structure has been used by others, as in Steven Saylor's "Roma," and Edward Ruthersford's "London: The Novel." This technique is hard to do well, because unless you make the book really long -- and many Michener tomes run past 1000 pages -- not all the stories may have enough space to develop thoroughly. Often some of the episodes are good, while others feel forced. And even when everything is done well, the reader will form emotional attachments to characters, only to have them destroyed and replaced when starting the next story. Still, if done well, the result may be masterly, as in Michener's "The Source," a look at a tell near Jerusalem and the different religions that developed or visited there over the millennia. A-story vs. B-story (Subplots) ------------------------------ Many works of fiction have stories that are intertwined. In other words, you can't neatly pigeonhole them as frame story or as a series of stories, because they appear at different parts of the book. Nevertheless, in most works you can tell which plot is the main plot (also known as the *A story*). By definition, the other plots are subplots. Usually they have less action; less development; less time on stage. We see this often in TV series, especially those with large casts. Often it is difficult to give all the recurring characters a pertinent role in the A story --so they participate mostly in the *B story* (or even a *C story*). Many authors merge their A and B stories. Occasionally, this merging feels contrived, as was often the case in Nancy Drew books. Generally the stories should be related in some way, even if it is simply the development of a theme. Character Arcs -------------- Character arcs refer to the development of your characters throughout the storyline. Throughout your novel -- or series of novels -- your characters should learn and grow. Each character should have a starting point in your book, including a certain viewpoint, wants and desires. By the end of the story, most of your characters should be in a different place, with their desires either thwarted or fulfilled, and their outlook on life changed or deepened. The subject of character arcs is so important that it is worthy of several additional columns. Here we will just mention that it is important to tell the story of each of your characters, too -- another type of story for our collection. Anecdotes and Other Tiny Tales ------------------------------ The word anecdote come from the Greek, meaning unpublished or not given out, and comes from a book published in the 500s called Anekdota and which contained plenty of stories about the Byzantine court. Gradually, the term ANECDOTE was applied to any short tale utilized to emphasize or illustrate whatever point the author wished to make. A short tale can enter your novel in many ways. Perhaps a traveler is recounting where he came from (in which case it is also back story). Perhaps a witness, during a trial, explains what happened. Or perhaps a preacher tells a parable, or a bard sings a song. Some anecdotes may already be familiar to your stories. In our series set in ancient Greece, although we focus on the experiences of mortals, we frequently include myths about the gods. We try to add depth to these myths, often already well known to the readers, by showing how the characters react to them. For example, the hero Pelops in "Children of Tantalus" is inspired by a bard singing about how Icarus made wings of wax and feathers. If you include familiar anecdotes or fables in your story, enrich your readers' experience with a new interpretation. Conclusion ---------- This article has gone through many of the different types of stories found in novels. In a sense, classifying the stories within stories is like trying to pigeonhole a platypus -- what purpose does it serve, when the boundaries are so fluid? And yet considering the different forms may help you control and improve the different stories in your own work. >>--------------------------------------------------<< A version of this article appeared at the Coffeehouse for Writer's Fiction Fix. Victoria Grossack studied Creative Writing and English Literature at Dartmouth College, and has published stories and articles in publications such as Contingencies, Women's World and I Love Cats. She teaches a variety of writing classes at http://www.coffeehouseforwriters.com/courses.html. Victoria Grossack is the co-author of the Tapestry of Bronze series (Jocasta; Children of Tantalus; The Road to Thebes; Arrow of Artemis) based on Greek myths and set in the late Bronze Age. Besides all this, Victoria is married with kids, and (though American) spends most of her time in Europe. Her hobbies include gardening, hiking and bird-watching. Visit her website at http://www.tapestryofbronze.com, or contact her at tapestry (at) tapestryofbronze (dot) com. Copyright 2012 Victoria Grossack ***************************************************************** A FREE MASTER CLASS IN CREATIVE WRITING SUCCESS. Enrol FREE in a 14-part 'mini course' in short-story writing success. This highly acclaimed Writers' Village 'Master Class' shows you how to get published - profitably - and win cash prizes in fiction contests. Discover how to open a chapter with 'wow' impact, add new energy to a scene, build a character in moments, sustain page-turning suspense even through long passages of exposition... plus 97 additional powerful ideas you can use at once. Enjoy the course without charge now at: http://www.writers-village.org/master-classes ***************************************************************** WRITING A MYSTERY OR CRIME STORY? Forensic Science for Writers: A Reference Guide can help. Based on a long-running course offered in colleges and universities, this survey shows you how to create believable plot twists and enhance your stories with realistic forensic details. Available from Amazon and other bookstores. For details visit http://forensics4writers.com/the-book ***************************************************************** NEWS FROM THE WORLD OF WRITING ================================================================= The Writer is saved ------------------- Good news! On August 22, 2012, Boston-based Madavor Media, a privately held niche and enthusiast media company, acquired The Writer, one of the oldest continuously published magazines in the U.S. This is a homecoming for the magazine, which was first published in Boston in 1887. For more on this story visit: http://tinyurl.com/9cbdnba Erotic Trilogy Heats up summer for Bookstores Across the World -------------------------------------------------------------- According to figures released by Random House this morning, sales of the trilogy Fifty Shades of Grey have lead to a bumper sales year for bookstores across the world. Random House has seen a 20% increase in book sales in the first half of 2012 alone. For more on this story visit: http://tinyurl.com/8dexpfe $69m Payout by US Publishers for Price Fixing ---------------------------------------------- Hachette, Harper Collins and Simon & Schuster have been made to settle an anti-trust lawsuit worth $69m after being found guilty of price fixing with regards to e-books. The money must be paid to consumers who suffered as a result of the price fixing. For more on this story visit: http://tinyurl.com/8ftbnbo ***************************************************************** FEELING PRESSURED TO PRICE A JOB? Follow the 3-step process in Freelance Fee Setting: Quick Guide for When a Client Demands a Price NOW. This brief e-book is by the author of the award-winning What to Charge: Pricing Strategies for Freelancers and Consultants. Get it now at http://tinyurl.com/86qfupw ***************************************************************** BURRST.COM - A NEW FREE WRITING SITE FOR FEARLESS SHORT FICTION Unlike other websites for writers, Burrst focuses on sharing short pieces of fearlessly written fiction. Each day members can post one 'burst' of 1,250 words or less to be read, listened to, liked and commented on. Find out more at http://burrst.com/about/ ***************************************************************** Writing Jobs and Opportunities ================================================================= Steam eReads Open to Submissions -------------------------------- Call for Submissions: Steam eReads is Australia's premier epublisher of hot romantic fiction. We are currently accepting submissions of 55,000 - 90,000 words for full length fiction, and 15,000 - 30,000 words for our 'Short n Spicy' series. For submission guidelines please visit: http://www.steamereads.com.au Writers' Haven Open to Submissions ---------------------------------- Writers Haven is an idyllic way a writer and a poet can express their creativity. It has been running successfully and has completed six refreshing issues. Every style of writing is appreciated and encouraged. Nayanna Chakrbarty, the editor, provides 3 themes in advance to help plan the writing experience. Multiple submissions accepted. Submission Guidelines: http://www.original-writer.com/submissionwritershaven.html Verse Land Poetry Magazine: http://www.original-writer.com/verse.html Kentucky Flash Story -------------------- We are now accepting submissions for a collection of sudden fiction about/from Kentuckians, or with the theme of Kentucky or the south. Your work can be anything from hint fiction (25 words), to a 2,000 word short story. Please edit and fine tune your text before sending it in a .doc, .docx, or rtf file. Inside your file, provide a bio, and one sentence describing each of your submissions. You can submit up to five works at a time. Bios should be in third person, and begin with your name. For instance, "firstname lastname is blah, blah, blah." You only need one bio per submission package. The one sentence describing your submission should include your title. If you have five submissions, provide five of these sentences, one for each submission. No fees ever, but also no payments. You will be provided with a free ebook to share with your family and friends. You can also use it for publicity. A printed book will be available for sale on Amazon at a reasonable price. (less than $15 in most cases. Send all submissions to parker.owens@gmail.com. More information at http://kystory.wordpress.com ***************************************************************** FEATURE: The Future of Science Fiction and Fantasy ================================================================= By Michele Acker What is the future of Science Fiction and Fantasy? Are the genres fading? Are writers running out of ideas? Have audiences grown tired of the same old thing? Not at all. In fact, according to several prominent agents, whether written for middle grade, young adult or adult audiences, the genres of Science Fiction and Fantasy are going strong and will be for a long time to come. There's more crossover now too. While teenagers have always read adult fiction, with the popularity of books like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games and Percy Jackson, adults are reading more middle grade and young adult fiction now than ever before. Although some agents may disagree on which of the two genres is strongest, Science Fiction or Fantasy, they all agree that we'll be seeing much more of both in the future. I interviewed seven agents -- Eddie Schneider with JABberwocky, Sandy Lu with the L. Perkins Agency, Lucienne Diver with the Knight Agency, Miriam Kriss with the Irene Goodman Literary Agency, Jean Naggar with the Jean V. Naggar Literary Agency, Nancy Gallt with the Nancy Gallt Literary Agency (she is also the agent for Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson series), and Jessica Faust with Bookends -- and asked each of them four questions regarding Science Fiction and Fantasy. This is what they had to say. 1. What do you see as the future of Science Fiction& Fantasy? ------------------------------------------------------------- Eddie Schneider: I think that SF/F is one of the healthiest genres in literature right now, so I'd say more growth and diversification. With the latter, I think we're going to see greater diversity both in the variety of subgenres (helped along by the e-book industry, which is able to prove to publishers that things they think won't work, do), and in terms of subject matter and authorial background. I think we're finally going to start to see good SF/F novels that should've been translated into English years ago get their due, and the chorus of voices will be more nuanced than it's historically been. Sandy Lu: Science fiction, which has been overshadowed by fantasy in recent years, will be in demand again. Urban fantasy, one of the fastest growing genres in the past few years, is on the decline. The market is saturated with vampires, werewolves, zombies, and psychics, the readers are quickly growing tired of them. They will want something with a basis in scientific theories, such as cyberpunk, alternate worlds, or space opera. Lucienne Diver: It's always difficult to predict the future. Trends come and go, sometimes nearly overnight, like mash-ups, and sometimes lingering, like urban/contemporary fantasy. What I can say is that sf and fantasy are eternal. Epics are eternal. Anything that deals with the human condition and high stakes, whether they be espionage, magically or murderously induced, will be perpetually popular. Miriam Kriss: We're definitely seeing a return to more traditional high and epic forms of fantasy, with a modern feel, and a hunger for near future stories, rather than space opera. We've also been seeing steampunk crop up in both YA and adult SF/F -- even in romance! Jean Naggar: There will always be a future for science fiction and fantasy, and I include futuristic as well as dystopian novels. We all love peering into weird fantastical worlds, seeing wonderful alternate universes developed by others, playing with the "what if..." and taking a break from the harsh realities of the international political spectrum in our real world. Since science fiction and fantasy are among the most creative genres, I cannot speculate where the next talented imaginative writers will take us, but I am sure that the journeys will be worth the trip! Nancy Gallt: I think readers will always enjoy the genres, as they have for generations. 2. Do You Feel YA is dominating the genre? ------------------------------------------ With the success of books/series like The Hunger Games and Percy Jackson, do you feel YA is dominating the genre? Eddie Schneider: No. Fantasy for adult readers, in particular, is proliferating, and there's a whole class of excellent authors that's cropped up in the last few years, including but not limited to JABberwocky clients Brandon Sanderson, Peter V. Brett, Jon Sprunk, Myke Cole... Sandy Lu: It's actually the other way around. SF & Fantasy is dominating the YA genre. Lucienne Diver: I think that partly the recent domination of YA is because it's not so divided into genres. YA is its own category, and to an extent that gives authors more freedom to cross boundaries and pull in whatever elements they'd like. However, I wouldn't say that YA is dominating the genre. Look at the Game of Thrones series by George R.R. Martin or the Sookie Stackhouse books by Charlaine Harris. There's a lot of great and bestselling adult sf/f as well. Miriam Kriss: It might be more appropriate to say that the genre is dominating YA. There are still plenty of big name SF/F adult series that are doing wonderfully, including the tremendous success of Game of Thrones. In YA the trends right now are Horror and SF, which a great way for readers to be exposed to the genre and grow up hungry for more. Jean Naggar: The YA market is particularly strong at the moment, but rather than dominating the genre, I think it is opening up the connections between readers of all ages, making crossover books and movies more and more frequent, and making intergenerational book conversations once again the norm, rather than young readers only finding age-based material. Nancy Gallt: Percy Jackson is technically middle grade as Percy was only 12 when the series began, but I think SF/F have always been YA genres, it's the age when that kind of imagination and speculation are at their peak. Jessica Faust: I feel like YA is hot right now, but I don't know that YA is dominating any genre other then it's own. YA books should be sold in the YA section and SF/F will remain a primarily adult market and sold to adults. I do think there's a lot of SF/F or paranormal in YA right now however. 3. Are Adult SF & F Authors Jumping on the YA bandwagon? -------------------------------------------------------- Eddie Schneider: I think there are quite a few authors who are excited about the idea of writing for a teen audience. While there are a few who've done it for commercial reasons, there are so many more who've done it for the artistic challenge of telling a really tight story with great characters. Teens have strong crap filters, and will skip over something that tries too hard or feels inauthentic, hence the challenge. Sandy Lu: Yes, definitely. YA is a quickly-growing market, and some adult authors, not just SF & Fantasy ones, such as Gail Carriger and Philippa Gregory, are also writing YA now. Lucienne Diver: Yes, but when urban fantasy became hot, I saw a lot of authors jumping on that bandwagon as well. I think a lot of authors simply have more ideas floating around than they possibly have time to write and when something skyrockets like YA has, they may choose to focus on those ideas that previously might not have had the best chance for breaking out. Miriam Kriss: There are definitely authors who are doing both and doing it well. My own authors Lilith Saintcrow and Kate Locke, who write YA as Lili St. Crow and Kady Cross respectively, have found their YA and adult audiences to have a great deal of crossover and the pen names they've chosen are meant to be deliberately obvious so that readers know which they're getting but at the same time can find them easily. Other authors, like Jenna Black, write both YA and adult fantasy under the same name. Nancy Gallt: I think a lot of adult authors are jumping on the boom in children's books in general--look at James Patterson. Jessica Faust: I can't say for sure about SF/F, but we're definitely seeing it in other genres. I'm not sure if people feel it's going to be easier, they'll sell more books, or they've just always had a desire to write YA, but we're seeing a lot of adult authors switching over. 4. What are the current trends in SF & F? ----------------------------------------- First it was dragons, then kick-ass females in some state of undeadness. Now with all the vampires and werewolves out there, what are the trends? What sorts of characters are in demand now, or will be in the near future? Eddie Schneider: I shy away from this sort of thing personally; I'm much more interested in books that have a strong and distinctive authorial voice, than books that deliberately aim for the zeitgeist (trends) -- in the long run, I think authors of the former stick around and are able to make better careers out of it than authors of the latter. They also write more interesting books, at least in my opinion. That said, there IS a trend toward darker and more realistic SF/F, and I'm happy to see this. Sandy Lu: Hard science fiction may be returning, and the boom in fantasy may be on the wane. Robots and aliens may be the next big thing. As for characters, the demand will always be the same: multi-dimensional characters with deeply human stories, who the readers can identify with, fall in love with, or love to hate. Lucienne Diver: It's very difficult, but not impossible, to find a new angle on vampires. I think the way we'll expand and diversify is by bringing in other cultural traditions. For example, the mythology and superstitions surrounding vampires or shape shifters or zombies or what have you differ vastly from one culture to another. I'd love to see more non-European influences. Miriam Kriss: Well as I said, there's a big push to find the next George R. R. Martin or Brent Weeks on the fantasy side and a lot of interest in both near future stories and steampunk. Jean Naggar: Hard to say. The imagination is a wide-open playground, and the next trend is as close as the next writer with a wacky take on creatures and our world. Nancy Gallt: A good story and a fresh approach will always be in demand. But perhaps the best summary came from Agent Jessica Faust. When asked what the next big thing is, what agents are looking for, she replied, "I think most editors, and probably readers, are looking for the next thing, but no one knows what it will be quite yet." So, for those of us who write Science Fiction or Fantasy, it's good to know there will always be a market for our work and an audience who appreciates it. >>--------------------------------------------------<< Michele Acker is passionate about writing. She has had two stories, Blood Debt & The Price of Magic, released in a new anthology called, The Stygian Soul. She is also a contributing author in a new non-fiction book called, The Complete Guide to Writing Science Fiction, due to be released next spring by Dragon Moon Press. For more information on Michele and her books, check out her website: http://www.micheleacker.com/ Copyright 2012 Michele Acker For more information on writing Science Fiction & Fantasy check out our section at: http://www.writing-world.com/sf/index.shtml **************************************************************** EBOOK SELF-PUBLISHING EXPLAINED An epublishing revolution is sweeping the industry. We explain what is happening and show you how to self-publish your own eBooks. http://www.PublishYourOwnEbooks.com ***************************************************************** Free Stuff for Writers: Web-Based Tools That Require No Downloading ================================================================= By Aline Lechaye Fall is typically a season of change. It's the time when the leaves on the trees start falling, the time when you realize that the year's almost over, and the time when you start thinking that maybe it's time to stop procrastinating and get some things done. Whether you're thinking about starting a new blog/website, digitalizing some papers that have been around collecting dust since forever, or organizing your contacts, we've got free tools you can use. For you CSS/graphic art/web design fanatics out there, css Zen Garden (http://www.csszengarden.com/) is the place to find inspiration. For everyone else, it's also a great place to find inspiration, if you happen to be making, say, your official author's website or a promo website for your latest book. Click through the example CSS files displayed to the right of the page, or go to the archives ( http://www.mezzoblue.com/zengarden/alldesigns/) to find all the CSS designs the site has accumulated so far. Note down the design elements, color combinations, and overall styles that you prefer. Even if you're not an expert in computer code, you'll at least have an idea what you're hoping to see in your own website. Plus, the designs are just breathtakingly amazing--definitely worth a second look. Free OCR (http://www.free-ocr.com/): Thanks to Writing World publisher Moira for sending me this nifty little web tool that extracts "text from any image"! (Obviously, there's got to be some text in the image for the tool to extract. This isn't a tool for finding hidden messages in the Mona Lisa.) OCR -- Optical Character Recognition -- is a type of software that recognizes text present in an image, and then extracts it into a text file that you can edit. Free OCR offers text extraction for multiple languages, but the images uploaded cannot exceed 2MB, and cannot be "wider or higher than 5000 pixels". Also, you can't upload more than ten files in an hour. Sure, it's not perfect, but it beats typing out a whole page of text by hand. It seems like there're so many social networking and instant messaging services online nowadays that you have to be constantly on high alert just to keep up with everything that's going on. However, using eBuddy (http://www.ebuddy.com/), you can now stay connected with all your friends and contacts on Google Talk, MSN, Facebook Chat, Yahoo Messenger, and so on, no downloading or software installing required. Furthermore, eBuddy works on your iPhone or Android phone as well, so you can chat on the go. They also have a free SMS delivery app which you can find at http://www.ebuddyxms.com/. Need to send a fax to someone who doesn't appear to have an email? (Well, maybe their internet's down. These things happen.) Use FaxZero (http://faxzero.com/) to send free faxes to any fax number in the United States or Canada. You can attach multiple .doc or .pdf files to the fax. If you'd like to send a message with your fax, simply type it into the text box provided. The free service does attach ads to your faxes, and there is also a limitation on the amount of faxes you can send. Learn more about how FaxZero works at http://faxzero.com/faq.php >>--------------------------------------------------<< Aline Lechaye is a translator, writer, and writing tutor who resides in Asia. She can be reached at alinelechaye@gmail.com. Copyright 2012 Aline Lechaye **************************************************************** THE WRITE SITES ================================================================= InfoPlease.com -------------- This is a fantastic site to browse when you are thinking up new article ideas or angles, or looking for that extra zing to liven up your article or story. http://www.infoplease.com/ Creativity Portal ----------------- I just found this site and will be visiting it a lot! It is packed full of tips on how to boost your creativity, not only in writing, but in your life as a whole and has a free newsletter too. http://www.creativity-portal.com/ CharlotteDillon.com ------------------- Although this site is aimed at romance writers, it is actually, useful for fiction writers in all genres and even nonfiction writers too. Click on her links for writers and discover a whole load of handy resources including the handy guide to being your own editor. http://www.charlottedillon.com/WritersLinks.html ***************************************************************** SERIOUS ABOUT WRITING? Join the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors, the professional association with a career-building difference. We partner with you to create a strategic online presence with genuine credibility. You get a free NAIWE-linked website (and more) so you'll be where people come to find writers. Join us today at http://naiwe.com! ***************************************************************** AUTHOR'S BOOKSHELF: Books by Our Readers ================================================================= Destiny of the Wolf, by Theresa Grant Forensic Science For Writers, by Phillip Jones The Musical Adventures of Professor Anacrusis I: The Surround Sounds of Music, by Chrissie Tetley Superhero Origins & Mystique: The Quest for Superhuman Solutions, by Karl C. Hendrixsen (Kindle) To Love Again, by Theresa Grant Find these and more great books at http://www.writing-world.com/books/index.shtml Have you just had a book published? If so, let our readers know: just click on the link below to list your book. http://www.writing-world.com/books/listyours.shtml ***************************************************************** ADVERTISE in WRITING WORLD or on WRITING-WORLD.COM! 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Dress for Success Guide by Dr. E

For those who love bargains and professional clothes: see below--

Department Stores with Deals:

Family Dollar: There are several stores in the area. They have decent quality clothing for under ten dollars. They also have 75% off sales; it is possible to buy a pair of shoes for $.50 cents. Most of the professional or dressy clothing is for women, teens, and children. • Cityline Plaza, First Street Moline, IL. • 3126 23d Avenue, Moline, IL • 1617 11th Street, Rock Island, IL • 921 16th Avenue, East Moline, IL • 2255 Rockingham Road, Davenport, IA • 1932 N. Brady Street, Davenport, IA Macy’s, formerly Famous Barr: There is one located at the big shopping center just off War Memorial Drive in Peoria. They are based in St. Louis, and a visit to that store is a historical experience in itself. Famous carries terrific brand names and major designers, and is “famous” for its 66% off and 75% off sales. They usually carry a great selection of United States sweaters and various suits. There is also a big store in Carbondale, for those who love to travel, at University Mall on Highway 13, the main thoroughfare. Farm and Fleet: They usually sell classic brands like Sag Harbor and Alfred Dunner for women at about 25% off. Mid summer, they start marking things down drastically; for instance, a $40.00 pair of slacks could cost $6.00. A $50.00 dollar sweater can go for $4.44. There is a good line of shoes for men and women, and these can go for as little as $3.00 per pair during the sales. Most of the outfits are mix and match dressy sportswear for women and teens. • 8535 Northwest BLVD, Davenport, IA • 5900 John Deere Road Moline, IL • 1098 S. Chicago St., Geneseo

Dillards: Imagine being able to buy a $200+ designer jacket for $4.99! It is possible if you shop at Dillards in early May. All the winter and fall lines are marked-down to incredible prices. Some recent finds besides the jacket: $85.00 women’s dress boots for $7.99, Swarovsky and Tommy Hilfiger jewelry at $1.99 or less [originally up to $50.00 each], $100.00 blouses at $4.99 each, men’s dress shirts originally $64.00 for $16.00 or less, boys good dress shirts and tops $1.50 each. All formal dresses in all sizes were at $4.99. $75.00 handbags go for $1.99 and $2.99. Other mark downs were already at 75% off, with half off that price on the special sale days. Look for 75% off sales the rest of the year. No major lines are excluded, and sale items include Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Napa Valley, and Pendleton. Another good time to shop Dillards is the Friday after Thanksgiving when there are special sales. Christmas ornaments go on sale immediately, sometimes before Christmas. By the second week of January, they are marked down to 75% off. It’s a good place to look for Secret Santa and office Christmas gifts. • Coralville, Coralridge Mall • Davenport, Northpark Shopping Center, 320 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA Dollar General: As with Family Dollar, there are several stores in the area, including one right across the street from Kaplan College at Spring Village Shopping Center. They, too, have good professional pieces, including shirts, dresses, skirts, and sweaters for $10.00 or less. Fifty percent off sales are common. They also carry reasonable and good looking costume jewelry, handbags, and lingerie. They are also a great place to find hangers, and plastic storage units so you can take care of your clothes from season to season. Different stores carry different merchandise, so it’s worth taking a “tour” of local Dollar Generals. They are also a good place to find wallets and handbags. • 2170 E. Kimberly Rd, Davenport • 1037 S. Oakwood Avenue, Geneseo • 201 W. Second Avenue, Coal Valley • 905 W. 4th, Milan • 2010 26th Avenue, Moline, IL • 3830 11th Street, Rock Island • 4012 Black Hawk Road, Rock Island • 4110 Avenue of the Cities, Rock Island • 2201 5th Street, Silvis • 1224 State, Bettendorf • 109 E. 50th Street, Davenport • 2604 W. Locust, Davenport Dots: Village Shopping Center, Davenport. Women’s Clothing in all sizes. They have great discounts on sportswear Dress Barn: 4018 E. 53d Street, Davenport. They carry a great line of suits and dresses in all sizes for professional women. Gordman’s: They are relatively new to this area, but located very close to us, down Kimberly Road, at the corner of Kimberly and Elmore, and near Panera Bread. It’s possible to buy designer fragrance for men and women for as little as $5.00. Their sales are terrific, and there is a lot of business appropriate mix and match sportswear. It’s also possible to put whole work outfits together for less than $12.00. Prices are always discounted, but there are sales on top of that. They have reasonable furniture, home furnishings, and candy, for furnishing offices and for office gifts. Gordman’s is also generous with handing out coupons for at least 15% off any purchase. • 4401 27th, Moline • 3860 Elmore Avenue J.C. Penney: Can order by their catalog or online, too. Penney’s is one of the oldest retailers in the United States. Their highly advertised sales are only about 25% off, but the unadvertised sales racks of $1.99, $3.99, $6.99, etc. . are fantastic. They have a good selection of business appropriate shoes and accessories as well. They also carry many classic styles and their buyers seem to cater to professional people. • Northpark Mall • Southpark Mall

K-Mart: They carry several professional lines, including Jacqueline Smith. These are reasonably priced and well made. They have great sales after Christmas through early March, where blouses and sweaters can cost $4.00 or less. K-Mart is a good place to buy basics, like simple shirts and blouses, shoes, handbags, wallets, undergarments and lingerie, and sweaters. Vogue, Seventeen, Glamour, and other style magazines feature stories and elaborate ads on the fashion finds available at K-Mart. They are also a good place to look for office supplies and personal toiletries. • 3661 W. Kimberly, Davenport • 5000 Avenue of the Cities, Moline • 3840 46th Avenue, Rock Island Kohls: You may be familiar with them because Jim Victor reports on their stocks every morning on KWQC. They are a fast growing retailer with great sales and senior discount days. They have many sales at 80% off, even 90% off. It is possible to buy skirts for $.70, and blouses for $2.00!! Major brands including Sag Harbor, Dockers, and Villager are always discounted from 10-25%. They have nice men’s furnishings and sportswear adaptable to business attire, and a wide variety of reasonably priced shoes. • 800 42nd Avenue Drive, Moline • 3910 Elmore, Davenport, IA Marshalls: They are one of the most famous of the national discount retailers. Almost everything in the store is already discounted at around 50%, but there are mark downs on top of that. They carry Perry Ellis, Liz, Ralph Lauren [Polo and Chaps], Koret, and other major brands for men and women. They have a good selection of shoes and accessories, as well as toiletries for men and women. Usually once a month on a Thursday, they take an additional 25% off red-tagged sale items. They also carry calendars and office furnishings. Marshalls, T.J. Maxx, Tuesday Morning, and Gordman’s require frequent visits, since you never really know what you will find there. Sometimes, you can add your name to a mailing list for advance notice of sales. They carry plus sizes. • Duck Creek Plaza, Bettendorf Sears: Also has a Catalog Store: Sears has long been the grand dame of catalog stores and reasonably-priced merchandise. They have great sales on shoes and jewelry, and have carried their own brands for professional attire. They carry suits for men and women and plus sizes. • Northpark Mall • Southpark Mall, 4500 16th, Moline Talbot’s: Usually, this store is too rich for my blood, but after Christmas, they have 75% off sales that are worth visiting. They have decent shoes and basic business attire for women. They carry suits and dresses as well. They are very classic in style and their clothing is good quality. They also have catalogs and are online. The store just moved locally from Duck Creek to Northpark, and there is a very nice store at Oakbrook, near Chicago. • Northpark Mall Target: Target is owned by the same folks who own Marshall Fields. They have great sales on professional attire for men and women. You can sometimes buy a dress for $4.00, shells, skirts, and lingerie for even less. They carry all sizes for both sexes, and a professional line of maternity clothes, Liz Lange. Supertarget is open almost all of the time. They have wonderful groceries from all over the world, a sushi bar, Starbucks, a good snack bar, books, great seasonal items, etc. It is not unusual to find 75% off or more off items during their sales. • 900 42nd Avenue Drive, Moline • 1850 E. 54th, Davenport T.J. Maxx: You never know what you will find there. They have complete clothing and accessories for men and women, shoes, lingerie, toiletries, and household furnishings. They have great last chance or end of the season sales, and also specialize in gourmet coffees and food items. I’ve been able to purchase $80.00 sweaters for $2.00, many pieces of professional sportswear for under $10.00. They carry Perry Ellis, Hilfiger, Lauren, Evan Piccone, and other major designers. • 4026 E. 53d, Davenport Tuesday Morning: Tuesdays used to move from location to location, but they are permanently housed up the street from us at The Village Shopping Center. They carry designer handbags and jewelry, as well as great home/office accessories. They are also becoming a great place to look for books. They specialize in close-outs and liquidated inventory. At their last chance corner, you can buy slightly “dinged” items, including pieces of Waterford crystal, for as little as $.25 or $.50! They have a newsletter which you can sign-up for that announces special events that happen, when, well, on Tuesday, beginning at 8 a.m.! • 902 S. Kimberly Road, Davenport Von Maur: Their markdowns are generally every Thursday. They have fantastic markdowns on clothing that sometimes amount to 75% off or more. Ms. Von Maur herself calls to check out the bargains. • Northpark Mall • Southpark Mall Wal-Mart: Wal-Mart carries classic brands like White Stag at very low prices. They also carry their own brands, and regular prices are usually under $20.00. Their sales can yield phenomenal bargains, so that a dress shirt can sell for $4.00, and a woman’s blouse can go for $.50! Wal-Mart also has a great yard goods and notions department where many fabrics sell for $1.00 per yard. They are a good place for shoes and even carry brands like Dr. Scholl’s. Also, they have reasonable house wares and school supplies. If you are mistakenly charged the regular price on a sales item, you sometimes can get a refund if you draw the cashier’s attention to the mistake. Super Wal-Mart has the added attraction of online shopping, and one-stop shopping. You can buy groceries and work clothes all in one fell swoop! If you live in the Carbondale, IL area, you can go to the Wal-Mart discount store, Bud’s. Check the Web for other locations and for online shopping. • 5811 Elmore Avenue, Davenport • 3930 44th Avenue, Moline • New store in West Davenport

Sam’s: If you are willing to pay the yearly membership price, you can find literally anything. They have great deals on designer clothes, office supplies, groceries, and books. Sweaters that cost $75.00 and up elsewhere go for $12.99 at Christmas. They also have great ideas for office gifts. One Christmas, I received as a gift a hand painted Italian ceramic jar full of biscotti. The jar was about 18 inches high and 8 inches in diameter; it cost $19.99. If it had come from Williams Sonoma, it would have cost at least three times that amount. Trust me; I know these things. • 3887 Elmore Avenue, Davenport Younkers: Younkers is known for all kinds of great sales, and for publishing coupons in the paper that give even more discounts. With their yellow dot discount, you can buy designer clothing in men’s and women’s departments at more than 80% off. At the end of the season, they have racks and racks of clothes and outfits for $3.99 each piece. These may normally cost as much as $100.00 per piece. They carry Liz Claiborne, Tommy Hilfiger, Laura Ashley, Ralph Lauren, and others. They also publish informative and colorful fliers frequently in the Sunday papers. Younkers runs a unisex hair salon which is very reasonable. I think they even take walk-ins. Tiffany and Kathleen are very good at styling hair. At a recent sale, designer clothing for women in all sizes was selling for $1.99 per piece. Shoes, including Nine West, Chinese Laundry, and other major brands, were also $1.99 per pair. • Northpark Mall • Southpark Mall Shoes: Famous Footwear: • 1508 E. Kimberly Road, Davenport • 320 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport • 3909 16th Street, Moline • 4500 16th Street, Moline Payless Shoe Store and Payless Shoe Source: • 2000 36th Avenue, Moline • 320 W. Kimberly, Davenport • 3880 Elmore, Davenport • 4500 16th Street, Moline • 4301 23d Avenue, Moline Von Maur: They have a whole room with sale shoes at Southpark. Many are more than 75% off. Also, their charge card requires no interest. Younkers: They always have a great selection of sale shoes, and their racks often have bargains for under $2.00 and under $5.00. Dillards: They carry all major brands and have 75% shoes sales at the end of the season. Von Maur, Younkers, and Dillards, also carry men’s shoes. Wal-Mart: See earlier listing,; all of these major discount stores have good shoe departments. They carry major brands, including Dr. Scholl’s. Warehouse Shoes: • Northpark Mall Specialty Stores: Barkan’s: 1709 2nd Avenue, Rock Island – Barkan’s is a well-kept secret in the Quad Cities. They have very good sales, but their sizes are limited. They have a good selection of men’s clothing as well, and they carry different brands from other stores. Catherine’s: Plus sizes. They send lots of coupons, and have great women’s clothes in plus sizes. They also carry jewelry and accessories and something is always on sale. • Village Shopping Center, Davenport • Across from Southpark, Moline The Discovery Shop: 2397 Cumberland Square Drive, Bettendorf – They carry all sizes and all sexes. Everything goes to The American Cancer Society, so your shopping supports a worthy cause. The Discovery Shop has wonderful sales, and often sells new items with the tags. I’ve seen $500.00 women’s suits selling for less than $100.00. They also carry great shoes, designer lines, housewares, cookbooks, antiques, and collectibles. They have a nice selection of books in good shape. They have special holiday open houses, Super Bowl Sunday sales, and Cookbook Event sales. They are located near the Goodwill Store in Cumberland Square. Nearby are Keepsake Corners and Evergreen Artworks, which are wonderful places for office and art supplies. Encore of Davenport: 1315 Jersey Ridge Road, Davenport – Encore has been around for a long time, and they carry new merchandise and gently used clothing in excellent shape. It’s possible to buy Stuart Weitzman shoes for under $20.00 and Gucci shoes for around $50.00. They also carry from time to time Versace perfume, Dooney & Burke purses, assorted jewelry, coats, formal wear, dresses, and sportswear. Twice a year, they have a 75% off sale. Real fur coats, for those into that, can sell for $40.00. Entire women’s suits sell for around $5.00. Fashion Bug: Village Shopping Center. Like Dots, Fashion Bug carries a variety of clothing in all sizes, including plus size. They have a good selection of dresses suitable for work. Four Seasons: Some of us are old enough to remember their mascot and slogan, “Tell ‘Em Sophie Sent You!” They carry all sizes, and have at least two stores along State Street in Geneseo, Leading Lady and Four Seasons. The sales are worth waiting for. There is a large store right next to us, near the car wash. They have sidewalk sales at least twice a year where you can buy dress slacks for $4.00 and t-shirts for as little as $2.00. • 110 S. State Street Geneseo • 2205 E. Kimberly Rd., Davenport • Four Seasons Plus: 120 S State Street , Geneseo Men’s Wearhouse: 4009 E. 53d, Davenport Repp Ltd., Big and Tall: 902 W. Kimberly, Davenport The Resale Shop: 2218 37th Moline [right off Avenue of the Cities. This is a consignment store which also carries new things. Thrift Stores and Consignment: The newest trend in thrift stores is that they often carry new items. Be on the lookout for the “new " section or for clothing that still has its original tags. Small towns around the area have great thrift stores; e.g., Maquoqueta, Riverside, Aledo, Burlington, and Silvis, all have had good thrift stores. There is also a thrift store on The Arsenal, but that is probably open only to residents and personnel on the island. D.A.V. [Disabled American Veterans]: Brand new location on West Kimberly Road; they are not in the book, yet. They used to be on River Drive. Takes credit cards, but not checks. Cash is always welcome. Express: Northpark Mall, Davenport Good Things Now [Project Now]: • Moved to a Moline Store as well. • 2000 3d Avenue, Rock Island • 605 SW 3d, Aledo, IL Goodwill: They also have a website where you can bid on items. Shop Good Will. http://www.shopgoodwill.com/ • 2302 Spruce Hills Drive, Bettendorf • 4241 23d Avenue, Moline • New Store off West Division and 53d, 5360 Villa Drive in Davenport, not yet in the phone book • 4664 44th, Rock Island • Several Stores in Iowa City; there is one just off the Coralville Exit. At the Iowa City Stores, men can buy suits for $8.48. The Grapevine: 3213 Avenue of the Cities, Moline. Rags to Riches: 506 16th Street, Moline. Ritzi Reruns: 1612 W. Locust, Davenport. The Salvation Army: Once known as strictly a thrift store, the Salvation Army carries many new items and advertises them on its marquees. Their clothing is very reasonable, and they change merchandise with the season. They have a lot of books and shoes, and also carry a section for antiques and collectibles. • Store off 7th Street in Moline, 701 19th Avenue, Moline • 2125 11th Street, Rock Island • 420 W. River Drive, Davenport • 415 W. 2d, Davenport • 4303 N. Brady, Davenport Selective Seconds: 2400 18th Street, Bettendorf. Trash Can Annie: 421 Brady Street, Davenport. This store is a little pricey, but they are famous; they did some of the costumes for Titanic. They do have sales, and are a lot of fun to browse. Ragstock. 207-209 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, 319-338-0553 – They are a legend in Iowa City. A recent trip yielded authentic Japanese silk kimonos, ranging between $5.00 and $10.00. There were many blouses for $10.00 or less, and many skirts and dress slacks. They have good sales, and a large variety of sizes and men’s clothing as well. For those who seek adventure, these are the addresses for other Ragstock stores: • Minneapolis Metro, 830 N. 7th Street, 612-333-8520 • Uptown, 1433 W. Lake Street, 612-823-6690 • North Town Mall, Blaine, MN, 763-780-6970 • Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-854-5133 • Burnsville Center, Burnsville, MN, 952-435-2686 • St. Paul, MN, 1515 University Avenue W, 651-444-2733 • Roseville, MN, Rosedale Center, 651-697-1445 • Duluth, MN 7 W. Superior Street, 218-722-1201 • Northfield, MN, 420 Division, 5-7-645-9081 • St. Cloud, MN, Crossroads Mall, 320-251-8962 • Madison, WI, 329 State Street, 608-251-3419 • Chicago, 812 W. Belmont, Ave., [upstairs near Belmont and Clark], 773-868-9263 • Chicago/Rogers Park, 6431 N. Sheridan, 773-465-1539 • Chicago/Loop Area, 226 s. Wabash [second floor], 312-692-1778 Stuff Etc.: This is the granddaddy of all consignment stores. One store even has a coffee bar in it! At sixty days, consignment merchandise is discounted 50%. After ninety days, merchandise is discounted 80%! You could spend all day just in the one store. They carry home furnishings, clothes, books, antiques, toys, furniture, dishes, jewelry, appliances, you name it. They have great ties and shirts, and a lot of sportswear. Located just off the Coralville exit by Wal-Mart. The second store is near K-Mart in Iowa City. The phone number for Stuff Etc., West is 319-545-8408 Dollar Bills, All for One, and other Dollar Stores: They carry nice handbags, school supplies, and toiletries. You can also find jewelry, books, and close out merchandise. Recently, the Southpark store sold Eddie Bauer and other designer sweaters for $1.00 each! • 902 W. Kimberly Rd., Davenport • Dollar Tree, 4500 16th Milan o 3824 44th Ave. Dr., Milan EBAY LISTINGS: www.ebay.com. Check the featured item on their website. EBAY is also a great place to sell and make some money if you have the skill, software, and time. Tip: Decide what your maximum bid is, enter it, then check right before the auction ends. Antiques Art Books Business & Industrial Cameras & Photo Cars, Parts & Vehicles Clothing, Shoes & Accessories Coins Collectibles Computers & Networking Consumer Electronics Crafts Dolls & Bears DVDs & Movies Entertainment Memorabilia Gift Certificates Health & Beauty Home & Garden Jewelry & Watches Music Musical Instruments Pottery & Glass Real Estate Sporting Goods & Fan Shop Sports Cards & Memorabilia Stamps Tickets Toys & Hobbies Travel Video Games Everything Else see all eBay categories Online: Virtually every store listed in the department store section has its online component. Be prepared to use credit cards and look for secure sites when you do. Also, be prepared to control the use of your credit card! Bloomingdales: http://www.bloomingdales.com/. Bloomingdales sends a newsletter to those interested announcing sales and specials. They are one of the priciest stores in the world, but they, too, have fantastic sales. They are worth a surf. Marshall Fields: http://about.nordstrom.com/ourstores/rackstores/?origin=footer. Visiting the Chicago Loop store on State Street and Michigan Avenue is a cultural experience. The famous clock itself is worth a look. They have great sales, and even mark seasonal items off 90%. The Watertower Place store is also very nice an is easy to find. There are Fields stores all over Wisconsin and the Chicago area. I’d live there if I could. If you get there at Christmas, go to the café. They sell fantastic cakes called Yule logs, and Frango mints. They also have gourmet groceries and chocolates, and pretty good restaurants. The stores are still decorated in fantastic displays; even Scrooge would find himself getting excited and would pull out his plastic money. Neiman Marcus: http://www.neimanmarcus.com/ Affectionately known as “needless mark-up,” NM redeems itself by having great sales. For example, it is still possible to buy a $300.00 women’s suit for less than $70.00. Nordstrom: http://www.nordstrom.com/. The closest store I know of is at Oakbrook Shopping Center near Chicago. They, too, have great sales, and their service is terrific. They stand by their merchandise and refund even without a receipt if necessary. Nordstrom Rack: http://about.nordstrom.com/ourstores/rackstores/?origin=footer There is a store near Highland Park, IL. They have drastic reductions on everything from clothing to make-up. You can buy $50.00 polo shirts for less than $15.00. When they have a great sale, you can buy a $600.00 blouse for $100.00. They are also great at exchanging. Shopko. http://www.shopko.com/: There was a moment of silence when the local Shopko closed. They carry good quality clothing, including dressy sweaters for men and women for around $20.00. Online store usually has newsletters that announces sales and special inventory. Catalogs: Avon: http://shop.avon.com/avonshop/default.asp?rep_phone=&rep_email=&newdept=&s=WSRGoogle&c=WSR&otc=Avon&department=KWAVON They sell a good line of clothing for the office at reasonable prices. They carry women’s clothing, and sell plus sizes. They are also prompt, and good at refunds if an item is not in stock. Their sales are very good. Design Toscano: http://www.designtoscano.com/ They have a store near Watertower Place in Chicago in the old post office. They also have one near Arlington Heights. They are reliable, and carry great furniture, jewelry, and office supplies. For those who love history, Egyptian art, Arthurian legend, and gothic décor, this is the place. The jewelry is great for enhancing work outfits. Lands End: They have great sales, and compete with L.L. Bean. http://www.landsend.com/ L.L. Bean : They have a good exchange policy and carry classic, easy care clothes for work. They also have a good variety of shoes you can walk in, but also wear to the office. http://www.llbean.com/ For Counsel: http://www.forcounsel.com/default_c.asp They are what they say; a catalog company that offers gifts for lawyers and legal professionals. They have a lot of office gifts, jewelry, books, prints, and items of clothing. They also have an online newsletter with sales. You can also order a hard copy catalog. Oriental Trading Company: http://www.orientaltrading.com/otcweb/application?origin=page.jsp&namespace=main&event=link.home&BP=913 This is a great place to buy office decorations and gifts. They carry lots of novelty items, and are very reasonable. Yard Sales, Garage Sales, Rummage Sales: Recently, the National Public Radio did a story on Anne Rice, millionaire best selling author and clothes horse. While preparing to move from her famous New Orleans house, Ms. Rice held a yard sale to sell her clothing and other items. She is famous for ordering clothing in bulk from Lands End and other catalogs, and then never wearing them. For example, she once ordered thirty black turtlenecks. As my dissertation director observed, “Couldn’t she buy just two, wear one and wash one?” Luckily for us, there are other Ms. Rice’s in the world. Yard sales and church sales often yield terrific finds for less than $1.00, sometimes with the tags on. Check the Internet, the Argus, Quad City Times, Quad City Showcase, and Moline Dispatch for the best listings. The Second Fiddle Sale takes place every mid-June, benefits the symphony and has wonderful clothes. This year, the Second Fiddle Sale will be at the old Shopko building in Bettendorf. The Thursday night preview sale costs $6.00 to get in. They also have jewelry, furnishings, art, books, toys, tapes, and sporting goods. Some items are brand new. Check them out on the Web since their location varies from year to year. Dry Cleaners: Burke Cleaners: • 5188 18th Street, Bettendorf • 4327 23d Avenue, Moline • 1506 17th Avenue, Moline • 171 19th Avenue, Moline • 3024 23d Avenue, Moline • 210 1st St., Milan • 2450 Spruce Hills, Bettendorf • 3723 N. Division, Davenport • 116 E. 1st, Geneseo • 1101 Mound, Davenport • 618 W. Kimberly, Davenport • 307 E. Locust ST., Davenport • 2715 18th Avenue, Rock Island Crescent Cleaners: 2198 W. Kimberly, Davenport. There are other locations as well. Sanitary Cleaners: 2194 E. Kimberly Road, Davenport. Other locations in Rock Island, Moline, and East Moline. George’s Classic Cleaners. 4320 Avenue of the Cities, Moline. See also The Yellow Pages. Tailors: • Bull LaVera: 3804 6th St, E. Moline • Dorothy’s Computer Clothing Design, 815 4th Street, Colona • Gentry Shop, 5515 Utica Ridge Road, Davenport • Judy Sews for You: 2314 18th Avenue, Rock Island. • Kosta’s Alterations: 301 18th Street, The Safety Building, Rock Island • Sanitary Dry Cleaners, 2194 E. Kimberly, Davenport • The Syndicate Hub, 2211 E. 52nd, Davenport Custom Made Clothing: See Tailors, above. Art Fairs: Someone always brings custom or hand-made clothing to these fairs. Many are extremely reasonable, and are made to be worn to work as business attire, albeit unique. Admission to most is free; it’s worth checking the River Cities Reader or Quad City Showcase to see which fairs are on. There usually one every weekend. They also offer shoes, jewelry, paintings, pottery, and other items for home, office, or business gifts. • Beaux Arts • Riverssance • Left Bank Art League Show • Summer Art and Craft Fairs • Fulton County Scenic Drive • Spoon River Scenic Drive Handbags and Accessories: Blue Moon Trading Company: Across from Southpark, near Dick Blick. Carries knockoffs of designer handbags and costume jewelry. Nothing is over $50.00. They also have original Marilyn Monroe design handbags that are collectors’ items. Designers that are “impersonated” include Louis Vuitton, Kate Spade, Fendi, and Burberry. All are good quality. Fabric Stores: For those who love to sew – Amazon Dry Good Company [Davenport, Mail order only]. Their catalog is also called the Amazon Vinegar Pickle Company. They have great patterns, books, and accessories, particularly for those interested in historical re-enactment. Wal-Mart: See the notation for the store. Great craft and fabric section. Hancock Fabrics: If you can get to their headquarters in Paducah, KY, you will lose yourself. As it is, they have great sales and specials. They also carry craft items. • 3808 N. Brady, Davenport • 3911 16th Street, Moline JoAnn Fabrics: Village Shopping Center, Davenport. They always have a lot of sales and good yard goods and trims. They carry lots of patterns and craft supplies and there is a sewing machine dealership within the store. They offer classes as well. Clothilde Catalog. They also offer an online newsletter, and informative vignettes on antique sewing accessories called “Clothilde’s Antiques.” You can obtain an online newsletter at: enews@Clothilde.com. Tanger Factory Outlets, off I-80, Williamsburg, IA. Exit 220. http://www.tangeroutlet.com/. The following stores are included: Specialty ABC Carpet & Home Bath & Body Works Bed Dressing Outlet Beleza Cosmetics Bible Factory Outlet Black & Decker Blax Golf Shop Bombay Outlet Book Warehouse Book Warehouse – PK Books Bose Cabin Creek Gifts Candle Warehouse Cape Cod Crafters Christian Factory Store Christmas & More Christmas with Dolls & Bears Class Perfumes Coleman Communications Plus Cosmetics Company Country Clutter Dazzlers Gold & Diamond Showroom Designer Fragrance Disney Doll Town Dollar Tree Earthbound Trading Etre Nails Fanatic Fanz Fragrance Outlet Franklin Mint FTM Motorsports Fudgery Furniture Outlet General Nutrition Center Glow in the Sun Gold & Silver Cart Golf 4 Less Golf Closeout Warehouse Golf Mania Golf Manufacturer’s Outlet Golf Products Unlimited Greg Norman Harry and David Heng Feng Center Heritage Candle Hoover Intercourse Canning Co. Jewelry Factory Karen’s Korner KB Toy Outlet Keepin’ It Real Kirkland’s Knife Factory L’eggs Hanes Bali Playtex L.L. Bean L.L. Bean Outdoors Le Gourmet Chef Lillian Vernon Lindt Chocolate Luggage Factory Metro Watch Michael’s Gems & Glass Movado Music 4 Less Music for a Song Nags Head Hammocks Nail Pearl & Tan New York Jewelry Nextel North Branch Furniture Outlet Office Max Oreck Paper Factory Pepperidge Farm Perfumania Perfume Studio Pottery Barn Publishers Warehouse Robinson Pharma Ron’s Custom Signs Rug Decor Salon by Design Samsonite Sanibel Gems & Treasures Scent Shoppe Scents for Less Scooter Depot Scrap Tales Silver Treasures Socks Galore by Hanes Sports World Sprint St. Nick’s Starbucks Sweet Treats TJ Uniforms Tool Warehouse Tools & More Toy Liquidators Toys Treasure Island Tumi Tupperware Ultra Diamond Outlet Unlimited Nutrition Villeroy & Boch Vitamin World Wilsons Leather Outlet Zales, The Diamond Store Outlet Apparel Adrienne Vittadini Aeropostale American Outpost Ann Taylor Ann Taylor Loft Anne Klein Banana Republic Factory Store Barney’s New York Bass BCBG Bealls Outlet Benetton Big Dog Sportswear Billabong Bon Worth Brooks Brothers Bundles Burlington Brands California Sunshine Swimwear Capacity Casual Corner Casual Corner Annex Casual Corner Annex Petite Casual Corner Annex Woman Casual Corner Woman Casual Male Big & Tall Cato Charlotte Russe Chico’s Chuck Roast Claiborne Menswear Coastal Cotton Coldwater Creek Columbia Sportswear Dana Buchman Danskin Delia’s Dickies Disney DKNY Jeans Dress Barn Dress Barn Woman Ecko Eddie Bauer Outlet Escada Company Store Fanatic Fanz FUBU Full Size Fashions G&G Retail Gap Outlet Geoffrey Beene Glow in the Sun Golf 4 Less Greg Norman Guess? Haggar Hanes Mill Outlet Hugo Boss Izod J. Crew Jockey Jones New York Jones New York Country Jones New York Sport Just My Size Kasper Kenneth Cole Koret L’eggs Hanes Bali Playtex L’eggs Hanes Bali Playtex Express L.L. Bean Levi’s Outlet by Designs Liz Claiborne Outlet Liz Claiborne Woman London Fog London Fog – Pacific Trail Maidenform Maternity Works Motherhood Maternity Outlet Nautica Nautica Jeans Co. New York, New York Newport Bay Nike Factory Store Old Navy Outlet Pacific Sunwear Palace Locker Room Perry Ellis Petite Sophisticate Petticoat Junction Polo Jeans Co. Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store Puma Quiksilver Rave Girl Reebok Rena Rowan Rue 21 S&K Menswear Socks Galore by Hanes Special Brands by Liz Claiborne Super Fan Swim Mart Timberland TJ Uniforms Tommy Hilfiger Tommy Jeans Tuffwear Van Heusen Versace VF Outlet Store Wilsons Leather Outlet Woolrich Zumiez

Maps: www.mapquest.com Selected Bibliography and Further Reading: Armstrong, Helen Joseph. Pattern Making for Fashion Design. Prentice Hall, 1999. Bata Shoe Museum. http://www.batashoemuseum.ca/ Farro, Rita. Life is not a Dress Size. Krause, 1996. Fashion Net. http://www.fashion.net/ Fashion TV. http://www.ftv.com/home/default.asp France, Kim. The Lucky Shopping Manual: Building and Improving your Wardrobe Piece by Piece. Gotham, 2003. Karlen, Josh. The Indispensable Guide to Classic Men’s Clothing. Tatra Press, 1999. Learn How To Dress. http://www.udefineu.com/tour/index.html?ID=2-5920 Miller, Judith. Costume Jewelry. DK Publishing, 2003. Mollod, Phineas and Jason Tesauro. The Modern Gentleman: A Guide to Essential Manner, Savvy & Vice. Ten Speed Press, 2002. Molloy, John T. New Women’s Dress for Success. Warner Books, 1996. Omelianuk, Scott and Ted Allen. Esquire’s Things a Man Should Know About Style. Riverhead Books, 1999. Racinet, Auguste. Costume History. TASCHEN America, 2003. Spade, Kate. Style. Simon and Schuster, 2004. Townsend, Chris. Rapture: Art’s Seduction by Fashion Since 1970. Thames and Hudson, 2002.