As we reach the milestone of chai—18 authors—in our second series of summer posts, I'm reminded of the power of community and shared wisdom in the writing journey. In Hebrew, "chai" symbolizes life, and what better way to breathe life into our craft than by learning from those who have walked the path before us? This series holds special significan...

Thank you to Brian Henry for interviewing me for the Canadian Zionist Forum, a substack written by David  "What's changed in Israel since October 6? Everything – everything has changed"A conversation with novelist Gila Green, interview #1 of Conversations with Canadian-Israelis BRIAN HENRYAUG 07, 2024 Today we are proud to offer a new article ...

Welcome to the August the Jewish Book Carnival, a monthly event where bloggers who blog about Jewish books can meet, read and comment on each others' posts. The carnival was started by Heidi Rabinowitz and Marie Cloutier to build community among bloggers and blogs who feature Jewish books. For more information about the Jewish Book Carnival, c...

"First thought best thought."  by Lesléa Newman  Welcome to the second installment of MY gilagreenwrites 5th anniversary celebration series! For this special occasion, I've invited some of the remarkable authors I've had the pleasure of interviewing and hosting as guest contributors on the site. These talented writers have generously...

 My new blog series is all about celebrating the 5th anniversary of gilagreenwrites. To start us off, 8 authors share their best writing advice. I asked dozens of authors two questions: 1. What is the best writing advice you received that you return to again and again? 2. A do or a don't for writers Here are the first 8 answers. ...

Celebrating Five Years of Gilagreenwrites: Exciting Updates Ahead! I am thrilled to announce that gilagreenwrites is celebrating its five-year anniversary! It's been an invaluable journey, and I am deeply honored by the warm reaction and support my website has received from readers and writers alike and the many publicists who contact me regularly,...

Transitioning from writing novels to short stories has been a refreshing and invigorating experience for me. After years of immersing myself in the expansive worlds of novels (this process began in 2011 and culminated in the publication of my first novel in 2013, King of the Class), returning to the concise and focused format of short stories has r...

To my surprise, chiseling my stories also made my prose pop.  Last May 2023, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jennifer Lang for my website. Now, she's back with the next phase of her memoir writing to share with us. It seems like a lifetime ago, given all that has transpired since then, and I still haven't resumed my regular author interview...

My summer blog post series continues. Summer is often seen as a time of relaxation and renewal and I've been writing a lot about that in my summer writing series. But this summer, I'm adding a post to my summer series that is not an intuitive part of my subject. When the world around us is in turmoil, it can be challenging to find solace, let alone...

Welcome to my ongoing author interview series! Today, I'm excited to feature Ann Koffsky, a talented children's author and illustrator whose work has captured the imaginations of young readers. Ann creates books that not only entertain but also inspire and educate. In this interview, we'll explore Ann's creative process, le...

By Elaine Franklin Whenever I pick up a book, I feel a sense of happy anticipation. It's the same sense of excitement I feel when the lights go down at a play, or the movie is just about to start. I know I'm in for an adventure of some kind, and no matter what genre it is, I know I'll be going on an emotional journey. I'll meet new people, find out...

My summer blog post series continues. I reference Israel because that's the location I know best, but you can apply this post to summer almost anywhere. I include my own Israel sky and event photos.  1. Longer, Hotter Days Mean More Time: In Israel, the summer days are not only longer but also particularly hot, giving you more daylight ho...

 Today's post is the 4th in my summer writing series. I expand on a point in yesterday's post about creative exploration in Jewish texts.  Summer's break from routine is a great time to experiment with your writing. With longer days and a more relaxed schedule, it's the perfect opportunity to delve into creative exploration. One unique so...

 This is the third post in my summer writing series. In this post, I will write from a specifically Jewish angle.  I include my own images of Jewish writing prompts: Omer Adam concert Tel Aviv June 2024, Jerusalem Jazz Festival June 2024 and Ashdod beach July 2024. Consider the photograph itself, the venue, the atmosphere, whatever c...

 I decided to write a whole series on summer writing. This post is the second summer writing post. I have always written much more in the summer than at other times of year.  How is the photo of Eilat from this week? The food truck festival in Jerusalem photo?  Feel free to use these photos as writing prompts. Glaze them with yo...

Embracing the Season: Summer Writing Tips for First-Time Novelists Summer is a time of warmth, relaxation, and inspiration. For first-time writers, it's the perfect season to dive into creative projects. Whether you're lounging on the beach, enjoying a quiet moment in the park, or savoring long evenings, summer offers a unique backdrop for writing....

 Writing a novel is akin to weaving a complex tapestry, where each thread contributes to a rich and cohesive whole. Whether you're a seasoned writer or embarking on your first literary journey, understanding how to interlace the various elements of your narrative can transform your novel from a series of events into a compelling story. Here's ...

Who are your favorite secondary characters in literature? How have they impacted your reading experience?  When crafting a compelling narrative, primary focus often falls on the protagonist and antagonist. However, secondary characters play a crucial role in enriching the story, adding depth, and providing unique perspectives. In this article,...

 I was delighted to be interviewed by Lahav Harkov about a recent writing workshop I attended on Zoom. The writing prompt was to seek out something humorous post October 7 to help us cope with the chaos. Naturally, I chose a tower of tuna fish.  "Writing on the Wall" is a new creative writing community founded to 'make something of o...

"With A Good Eye" delves into the journey of 19-year-old Luna Levi as she navigates the challenges of maintaining her household while her mother pursues her acting career and her father is mostly absent. Luna shoulders the responsibilities of managing finances, cooking, and cleaning for herself and her brother Ronen, all while grappling with the co...

Discussion guides at the back of novels didn't always enjoy the prominence they do today. Their rise to popularity can be traced back to a growing desire for deeper engagement with literature, particularly in the context of book clubs and reading groups. Behind the immersive worlds and captivating characters of novels lies a hidden gem often overlo...

A long time ago it seems now (yes, in the world before October 7), I answered a call for submissions at the German Embassy in Tel Aviv. I thought it sounded like an amazing project I'd like to take part in. The submission call was for essays from women all over Israel in a variety of languages. After all of the delays between Corona and t...

 A photo gallery from the 49th Literary Modiin event! Thanks so much to Julie Zuckerman for creating this space for creativity and storytelling. I had the opportunity to read from my new novel With A Good Eye and connect with readers (one participant told me she came because her aunt in New York was reading my novel White Zion in her book...

 Thank you to journalist, Atara Beck, for this interview. The magazine (print) version is longer and includes a photo spread. I'll post the PDF. For now, here is the online version of the interview with a link to the full profile. With a Good Eye, the title of Canadian-Israeli author Gila Green's novel, alludes to a good luck charm the protago...

Writing a memoir is a deeply personal and often therapeutic journey. However, it also comes with unique challenges that can hinder your narrative's impact if not addressed. Here are the top 10 common mistakes memoir writers make and tips on how to avoid them: 1. Lack of Focus Memoirs should have a clear theme or central message. Avoid trying to cov...

Many writers don't know what to ask themselves or their editors once they have completed a first draft. Here are some common questions all writers should ask themselves and others about their work: Is my writing clear and coherent? Authors frequently seek clarity on whether their writing effectively communicates their ideas and engages readers.Does...

Sally Wiener Grotta (she/her) is an award-winning writer, photographer and speaker whose numerous books include: Of Being Women, a collection of feminist science fiction stories (NobleFusion Press, 2023) and Daughters of Eve, a collection of essays that mines the tales of biblical Matriarchs to explore modern lives and concerns (Bayit Publishing, 2...

 Want to win a shelf full of Jewish kidlit books? Check out this contest! There are tons of books being given out, with 9 lucky winners. You can enter here: https://tinyurl.com/JAHMgiveaway  With A Good Eye is older YA, for ages 16 and up. My heroine, Luna Levy, is 19 turning 20 in the novel.  My book latest With A Good Eye, is part ...

 AJL Canada Roundtable: Canadian Authors' Showcase Sunday, May 5, 202410:00 am PT / 1:00 pm ET / 8:00 pm Israel Time In this showcase, thirteen Canadian authors of children's, YA, and adult books—Rona Arato, Brayden Bernstein, Nancy Cohen, Zehava Cohn, Anne Dublin, Gila Green, Kathy Kacer, Etta Kaner, Joanne Levy, Carol Matas, Ira Robinson, Al...

When we clear out the physical and mental clutter in our lives, we create the room needed to bring in new and more desired things, people, and experiences. Gayle is the Chief Executive Organizer of Let's Get Organized, LLC, in Northern New Jersey. She is a Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization, Certified Virtual Organizing Pro...

Middle-grade fiction often features a clear and accessible writing style that draws readers in from the first page.  As an editor, delving into the world of fiction requires not only a keen eye for detail but also an understanding of the unique nuances that come with different genres and age groups. Whether you're editing middle-grade or adult...

 I was absolutely delighted when Sally Wiener Grotta offered to chat with me about my latest novel With A Good Eye. With A Good Eye is available for pre order on Amazon/Amazon Kindle, as well as directly from the Montreal publisher. In addition, With A Good Eye is my first audio book and hopefully, I'll be able to post that link in a...

In 2019, I had the pleasure of joining a Literary Modiin Event to discuss my books, White Zion and No Entry. Now, I'm excited to announce my return for the release of With A Good Eye. Huge thanks to Julie Zuckerman for extending the invitation—I'm truly honored to be alongside talented authors Sheryl Abbey and Sarah Ansbacher. Whethe...

 Editing a memoir versus editing fiction involves unique considerations due to the distinct nature of the genres. Though I agree that the best memoirs read like fiction, in practice, that advice can only take you so far.  Here's a list outlining some key differences: Factual Accuracy: Memoirs are based on real events and experiences from ...

When the hero or heroine faces no repercussions for their actions, the narrative lacks moral complexity. My posts are often questions I receive from actual clients. Recently, I had a client take the view that the hero can get away with a wrongdoing because "that's what happens in real life, so why not in my book?" I decided to write a post in ...

A well-qualified academic editor brings not only expertise in academia but also a breadth of experience, including meticulous research and fact-checking skills honed through creative endeavors.  As scholars pursuing advanced degrees, the quality and precision of our academic writing are paramount. Whether crafting a dissertation, thesis, resea...

There has only ever been one act that makes me feel as potent as Elijah: writing. With a pen in my hand I could raise the dead, ascend skyward and bring fire down from the heavens....In Israel I was both haunted by and trying to tear myself away from memory when it came to this Nation, and all of that energy had to land somewhere: it became a&...

Thank you Liza Wiemer! Hi Gila, how are you? I want you to know I finished your book! Wow! It's unlike anything I have read. What a unique family and such a strong, resilient young woman. You really captured the essence of neglectful parents and the burden their offspring need to endure for the poor choices of adults, its impact on self-worth,...

Recently, I've encountered manuscripts where the tone lacks consistency throughout. One moment, it adopts a conversational style, only to switch abruptly to a formal, research-oriented tone. This inconsistency is a crucial aspect writers should address. Notice how these two photos have the same tone. It's a sunny day in both photos, both are colorf...

I specialize in editing a diverse range of documents across various genres and subjects. These include novels, memoirs, middle grade and young adult fiction, academic MA and PhD theses, and nonfiction books such as memoirs, how-to guides, and self-help titles.    Is your manuscript ready for submission? Whether you're a seasoned auth...

 It's crucial to recognize that while the journey of writing is deeply personal, the goal of publication often requires a collaborative effort  What, precisely, do book editors do? Here's an overview:  Understanding the Editor's Multifaceted Role: At its essence, the role of a book editor is akin to that of a sculptor, chis...

"Spring is not just a time for new beginnings—it's also an opportune moment to get a head start on your writing projects." As the gentle warmth of spring unfurls and whispers of summer vacations drift on the breeze, it's a pivotal moment to reassess your writing goals and dive into new projects. Contrary to popular belief, waiting until the peak of...

It seems to me to be the primary business of living: learning, growing, gaining in understanding, broadening the scope of our minds till we can recognize how intrinsically connected we all really are.  Like a lot of people, I grew up in a religious home. By that I don't mean in a family that simply went to church on a regular basis. Being rais...

Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Welcome to the March Jewish Book Carnival, a monthly event where those who cover Jewish books online "can meet, read, and comment on each others' posts." Organized by the Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL), the Carnival travels around and is hosted on a different participant...

All of my posts are derived from real questions from actual clients. So here's one I had recently: should I write from first or third person? This book is a nonfiction Holocaust memoir. Should this client write as the grandchild or try to write in the voice of the grandparent who had actually experienced the Holocaust? Point of view (POV) is a fund...

"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning," Psalms/Tehillim 30:5 As we delve into the month of Adar, traditionally associated with joy in the Jewish calendar, let's reflect on the profound connection between the joy in writing and the essence of this spirited month. The Joy in the Process: In the realm of writing, joy often...

In this post, we'll explore the importance of tailoring your editing approach to fit the specific demands of your chosen genre. When it comes to editing, one size does not fit all. Each genre comes with its own set of conventions, expectations, and unique challenges. Understanding how the nuances of different genres affect the editing process is cr...

Gold has given us a profound type of inter-generational, transnational hand-holding. Exploring Jewish Identity and Resilience in 18 Jewish Stories Translated from 18 Languages (Edited by Nora Gold with a Foreword by Josh Lambert) In a conversation with Nora Gold that I found online, she eloquently points out that due to the dispersion of Jews among...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our daily lives, revolutionizing various industries. In the realm of writing, AI is not just a futuristic concept but a powerful tool reshaping the landscape of content creation. Let's unravel the intricacies of AI in writing, exploring its capabilities, applications, and the transfor...

Writing tips shouldn't focus solely on 'show don't tell' and 'read your dialogue out loud.' Part of writing well ultimately involves taking care of yourself. Finding time for nutritious meals can be a challenge for many of us who are trying to balance family and professional life, as well as meet deadlines. However, maintaining a healthy diet doesn...

LISTEN: It was so nice to be in conversation again with Dave Pezza. This was our fourth podcast together and this time Dave interviewed me about my new novel With A Good Eye. Always a pleasure, Dave. Dave Pezza is the host of NovelClass, the first spin-off in the Writer's Bone Podcast Network. He spends his time trying to justify printing "writer" ...

As you know, I'm a fan of small press. That's one of the reasons I'm honored to be a judge for the 2025 International Voices in Creative Nonfiction Competition (Vine Leaves Press).   The 2025 International Voices in Creative Nonfiction Competition. As #writers we wish to establish literary legacies to sustain hope for the world to become ...

Thank you podcaster Ari Barbalat for interviewing me for the New Books Network: Link: https://newbooksnetwork.com/gila-green-with-a-good-eye-aos-publishing-2024 Ari asked me very comprehensive and thoughtful questions about With A Good Eye.  Gila GreenFeb 10, 2024With a Good EyeA NovelACE OF SWORDS PUBLISHING 2024 Luna Levi is an ordinary...

This year, let's explore how this day can be an opportunity to express love for our country, history, people, and traditions.  As Valentine's Day approaches, the air is filled with notions of romantic love—roses, chocolates, and heartfelt cards exchanged between partners. Well, when we can take our minds off the war, the hostages, and world in...

Thanks R.A. in Glendale California. The menu at Luna Levi's corner store & grill would have been much improved if this was included. Readers, keep sending me your photos! With A Good Eye and food go together and I love seeing my novel at your tables.   

For me, having to show up with work is the most important part... participating in weekly workshops means that even when life intervenes, I produce something. I'm delighted today to welcome author Nancy Ludmerer to my site. Nancy shares insightful information about her new novel Sarra Copia: A Locked-In Life.  On a personal note, tha...

So Many Ways to Enjoy "With A Good Eye" by Gila Green On New Year's Eve, with joy so divine, "With A Good Eye" and cake, a perfect design. In the pages I wander, a literary feat, As the clock ticks away to the year's sweet greet. Tomato bisque whispers, cucumber sings,  A symphony of flavors, as the story swings.  Brisket and potatoes, a ...

"Challenge yourself to reduce the word count by a specific percentage or edit without using certain words. Constraints can lead to inventive solutions and more concise writing." The journey from the initial draft to the final polished manuscript is a crucial phase in the life of any writer. While professional editors play a vital role, the skill of...

Interview with Deborah Kalb

Thanks so much, author Deborah Kalb for interviewing me on your site about With A Good Eye. Gila Green is the author of the forthcoming novel With a Good Eye. Her other books include Passport Control. She is based in Israel. Q: What inspired you to write With a Good Eye, and how did you create your character Luna Levi? A: I've been wanting to write...

I'm grateful and honored to once again find a novel of mine featured in Sephardic Horizons. Thank you to editor Judith Roumani for taking the time to meet with me at a cafe across from the college where I teach in Jerusalem. Over a coffee and pastry we had a discussion that turned into this interview. This was in August before the war, though I did...

In a world often fraught with challenges and uncertainties, the literary landscape is witnessing a notable shift towards a genre that seeks to provide solace and inspiration. The rise of up-lit, short for uplifting literature, has become a breath of fresh air for readers seeking narratives that offer hope and humor in the face of life's complexitie...

 As we step into a new calendar year, let's weave the rich tapestry of Israel and Jewish culture into our creative expressions. Whether you're a writer deeply connected to these themes or looking to explore them for the first time, these New Year writing prompts are crafted to spark your imagination with elements of Israel and Jewish iden...

When an agent or editor says: "Does this really need to rhyme?" it doesn't mean "I hate rhyme and will never represent it or buy anything that rhymes." In most cases, what they're really saying is: "Your rhyming skills still need some work." Debunking the Myth That "Editors and Agents Don't Like Rhyme" By Rebecca Gardyn Levington There's a misconce...

This Hanukkah, I was excited to be featured in Be'chol Lashon. I have been going back and forth with their creative director for a while until we decided that this Holiday of Light would be the ideal time to devote a page on their site to With A Good Eye and how food features in the novel because this holiday, as well as Passover, are seasons ...

I was delighted to spend an hour chatting with podcaster Tamar Ben Zvi recently. Tamar titled the podcast: One Family's Century-Long Israeli Journey. So that should give you an idea that we talked about Israeli history from the Ottoman Empire through today after starting off with a little bit about Canada. Of course, we delved into book-talk, my no...

Susan Weintrob did me the honor of reviewing White Zion when it came out in 2018. Today she honored me again with her review of my latest novel With A Good Eye, available for pre-order here. It goes without saying that we both love the combination of good food and good books.  Welcome, Susan Weintrob! Foodie LitGila Green's With...

Since October 7, 2023, I've been living through a war along with the entire Israeli population of every background. Well-meaning podcasters from abroad interviewing me about my new novel, With A Good Eye, have asked me if I'm in any way affected by the current war in Israel. I've responded that you'd have to be in a coma to be unaffected by th...

 I want to wish everyone a Happy Hanukah as difficult as it is right now, we are in much need of light. Hanukah is a time to take advantage of, not to waste, so whatever brings light into your life, grab an extra dose on Hanukah.  Here's an update on what's coming up for me: 1. Four podcasts that I detail here. I'll post the links wh...

I'm delighted to share with you my podcasts coming soon. I'm privilleged to have this opportunity to engage in lively discussions with hosts in Canada, the USA and Israel. Thanks for inviting me and looking forward to challenging and enlightening conversations! Ingenium Books I'm super excited for my upcoming discussion with Bon...

In the beginning of October 2023, I had the privillege of chatting with podcaster Joshua Pantalleresco on his podcast Just Joshing. We chatted about Canada, what it's like to live in various Canadian cities, postCorona societies, travel, this and that and of course, about my new novel With A Good Eye. Thanks for hosting me, Josh. This podcast ...

Which values stand out to you in your own writing that will preserve your legacy?   Every year at our Passover Seders, we tell the story of our people, over and over each year, with the intention to pass along our values to the next generations. I do wonder, though, how many authors and illustrators who create today's children's stories r...

I am honored to host this month's Jewish Book Carnival. The Jewish Book Carnival is a monthly roundup of Jewish literary links from across the blogosphere. Sponsored by the Association of Jewish Libraries, it is hosted by a different blog each month and shares book reviews, author interviews, essays, and other blog posts about Jewish books. For mor...

 Once the war broke out here in Israel, my August essay seemed to have descended from another planet and I wrote an addendum to reflect the current horrible times we are all living through. "The school was closed and no one went to work. Everyone was conscripted into the military or to help in the hospitals or to bury the dead. Across from the...

Aliyah: A Love StoryThe romance with her fiancé spurred her initial move to Israel, never imagining the love affair she eventually would have with the country. I'm thrilled to share my essay published in the lastest issue of Distinctions. The essay was written in August before this horrific war. An additional shorter essay was written aft...

Through a careful recounting of emotional development, Green leaves us convinced that life, and love, will win out.  By Thaddeus Rutkowski The novel With a Good Eye (AOS Publishing, Montreal) follows the fortunes—and misfortunes—of Luna Levi, a young Jewish woman living in Ottawa in the mid-1980s. In prose that is tight, spare, and fast paced,...

 My fifth novel "With A Good Eye" has arrived from Montreal. First batch! I'm not there to open the box. This story takes place in Ottawa but there is an Israeli thread as well as a thread of antisemitism. Thank you, Meryl Ain for the review.  "Gila Green's compelling new novel, With A Good Eye, is a unique Coming of Age story about the i...

 I am honored to have a poem included in this collection. Please order and help raise emergency funds for so many in need.  Announcing the Publication of Am Yisrael Chai: Poems, Prayers, and Essays 94 Authors, One Heart - United in Solidarity with Israel for Kedoshei Yisrael, our fallen ones, whose blessed memories will never fade. f...

Before this War broke out, I was very excited about my new novel With A Good Eye.  Blurb    Luna Levi is an ordinary 19 year old with extraordinary problems. Her mother's acting career is more important to her than the stage of real life. Her father struggles with PTSD as an ex-combat soldier and is equally MIA when it comes to ...

This short video was filmed on Day Two of the October 2023 War when I was asked if I felt I wanted to share anything about someone who had fallen/was murdered.  The names of the victims: Shlomi and Ayellet Molcho zichronam l'vrachah.  Day Five My sense of time is completely off. Four hours passes like ten minutes. Six hours like five...

Several people have contacted me from outside of Israel to ask how they can help. Thank you JIMENA staff for compiling and sharing this list. I repost it here:   For those wishing to provide direct financial support to Israel: Magen David Adom – Supporting 33,000 paramedics, EMTs, first responders, and first-aid providers in Israel. NATAL...

Like the fragile sukkah, our stories may be temorary, but their impact can endure for generations. Embrace the impermanence of your words and let your writing be a shelter of inspiration for all who enter.  Wishing everyone who celebrates a meaningful and magical Sukkot!   

Today on gilagreenwrites, I'm deilghted to host author Deborah Kalb. I'm excited to share Deborah's new novel with you as she plunges forward into the world of adult books. I hope you enjoy this thoughtful conversation that explores Deborah's  writing process and some behind-the-scenes thoughts regarding her new novel Off to Joi...

Coming soon to gilagreenwrites: November Jewish Book Carnival  

Whenever I write, I choose subjects that I hope will make an impact. If any of my books mean something to even one young reader I feel like I'll have done my job!  Bio Erin Silver's children's books include: Just Watch Me (Krystal Kite Award nominee), What Kids Did: Stories of Kindness and Invention in the Time of COVID-19 (Hackmatack Awa...

For my new novel "With A Good Eye" storyboards were particularly helpful in creating my character Luna Levi and her best friend Aiden Betel. by Gila Green Characters are the heart and soul of any compelling story. They drive the narrative, engage readers, and make the fictional world come alive. To create well-rounded, relatable characters, writers...

 "With a Good Eye is a powerful story about family, loss, and hope seen through the eyes of one young, resourceful woman, Luna Levi, who is trying to find her way. Gila Green paints a vivid portrait of a raw, urban Canadian landscape, as she delves into the Underworld as well as the inner world of her characters. Lyrical, wise and moving." Dia...

In my new novel With A Good Eye, there's a lot of homecooking, which I loved including in the book.  But why stop at one novel? Come visit me on Instagram at "Cooking with Gila." I'd love to hear feedback from anyone who tries one of my family's favorite recipes.  Follow me. Photos: Moroccan Fish, Holiday Meal Rice  

Cover Reveal: With A Good Eye

Pre Order ABOUT THE BOOK Luna Levi is an ordinary 19 year old with extraordinary problems. Her mother's acting career is more important to her than the stage of real life. Her father struggles with PTSD as an ex-combat soldier and is equally MIA when it comes to his daughter. The Levis jump from financial crisis to financial crisis until in one-spl...

Whether you choose to work with an editor or not, the key is to prioritize the quality of your writing and the satisfaction of your readers. Ultimately, the decision to hire an editor depends on your goals, resources, and preferences. Lately, I've seen this question repeatedly on a number of writing sites: Should I hire an editor? To save time resp...

I don't think we're in danger of the world ending. On the other hand, the world as we know it is most definitely in critical condition. Yoni Hammer-Kossoy is a poet, translator, and educator. Winner of the 2020 Andrea Moriah Prize in Poetry, his writing appears in numerous international journals and anthologies. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, ...

August Jewish Book Carnival

I'm pleased to host the August Jewish Book Carnival, a monthly event where bloggers who blog about Jewish books can meet, read and comment on each others' posts. You can read more about the Jewish Book Carnival here. This month's Carnival spans kids books, podcasts, memoir and more, so there's something for everyone for those of you ...

"Remember that the emotional depth of live readings cannot be duplicated on a screen" By Gila Green In a world dominated by virtual meetings and online interactions, the allure of live performances may seem like a relic of the past. However, the magic of sharing stories in person should not be shelved in the age of Zoom. Live author performances ha...

Compared to comprehensive developmental editing or line editing, manuscript evaluations are often more affordable.  If a writer is unsure about the overall viability of their manuscript, a manuscript evaluation can save time. The scenario is common. A writer gets stuck at a certain stage of the manuscript. It could be after 5,000 words or...

Through constructive feedback, encouragement, and guidance, a writing coach helps writers recognize their strengths, embrace their unique voice, and develop confidence in their abilities. A writing coach helpswriters create a schedule, set aside dedicated writing time, and provide strategies to maintain consistency and productivity. A writing ...

Dear Women 50+, It doesn't take more than a few clicks to find publications aimed at women over 50 years of age. My first try brings me to "15 Over 50 Magazines & Publications." The next article is from the Guardian informing me about the "rise of older female writers" and proclaiming that "things are definitely looking up," presumably for thos...

A Yemenite Jewish Grandmother's Delicious Remedy For What Ails You Known as "nature's antibiotic," matit makes the best breakfast. Thank you to The Nosher for posting my story and recipe. In a beautiful coincidence, my daughter-in-law's Savta (grandmother) Shoshana was born in Yemen's capital, Sana'a, where my paternal great-grandparents were also ...

Why should she care if people she hasn't seen for years are dead or alive? I already wrote about my new novel With A Good Eye, forthcoming in Montreal in August 2024. That was a two-book contract and I submitted the second manuscript a couple of months ago.  They took it!  About the Book In The Inheritance, Layne Fortunefield's escap...

Grandmothers Who Leftby Gila GreenThe Yemenites were very religious, like all those who left.In the synagogue we sat on straw mats.Grandmothers brought spices for havdalah and for Yom Kippur afternoons, like all those who left.Grandmothers sold aromatic hilbe and schug and saluf; that gave you an appetite.Grandmothers said: "My menucha, rest, will ...

It is very hard to find the right thing to say when someone is going through a difficult time. The best thing I've ever said was nothing at all. Diana Rachel Bletter is the author of the National Jewish Book Award Finalist, The Invisible Thread: A Portrait of Jewish American Women (Jewish Publication Society), A Remarkable Kindness (Harpe...