Write Now with Scrivener

Maria Reva, a Ukrainian-Canadian author celebrated for her longlisted novel Endling, discusses her unique blend of absurdist fiction and wartime themes. She shares how her family's immigration shaped her narrative and the significance of 'endling'—both scientifically and emotionally. Maria explains the role of snails in her story and how the Ukraine invasion influenced her manuscript. With insights on dark humor and metafictional techniques, she reveals her creative process, including Scrivener's invaluable features for navigating complex character arcs.

Tim Queeney, an experienced sailor and author of 'Rope: How a Bundle of Twisted Fibers Became the Backbone of Civilization,' shares his insights on the essential yet overlooked history of rope. He reveals how ancient rope was pivotal in constructing megastructures and the development of early tools. Tim discusses the fascinating story of the oldest known rope, its connection to Neanderthals, and how modern uses range from military applications to alpinism. Plus, he offers a sneak peek into his upcoming book on maps!

Isabella Valeri, author of Letters from the Dead, discusses her gothic family drama steeped in Alpine mystery. She shares insights on using the Snowflake Method for novel writing and how her personal experiences influence her storytelling. The conversation dives into character development, the allure of lengthy narratives, and how expansive novels compare to immersive video games. Valeri also reflects on historical inspirations like Napoleon, showcasing how they shape her creative process.

Jane Friedman, a publishing industry specialist with over 25 years of experience, shares her insights on the evolving world of writing and publishing. She discusses the growing landscape of self-publishing and the importance of direct reader engagement. The conversation delves into the complexities of pursuing a writing career, emphasizing passion over outside validation. Jane also reflects on the digital revolution's impact on publishing and the need for writers to assert their artistic agency in a corporatized industry.

Lisa Yee, a celebrated author of children's and young adult literature, shares her journey from juggling various jobs to becoming a prolific writer. She delves into her night owl writing routine, the importance of emotional depth in children's books, and her experience of breaking into children's publishing. Lisa discusses the significance of school visits, how illustrations enhance her storytelling, and her innovative use of Scrivener for organizing her work. She also highlights the impact of teachers and librarians in guiding kids to discover books.

Michael Jamin has been writing for TV for decades, and just published his first book of humorous short stories, A Paper Orchestra. Show notes: Michael Jamin A Paper Orchestra Learn more about Scrivener, and check out the ebook Take Control of Scrivener. If you like the podcast, please follow it on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave a rating or review, and tell your friends. And check out past episodes of Write Now with Scrivener.

Nicolas Binge, an acclaimed science fiction author known for his latest work, "Dissolution," shares insights into his multicultural upbringing across Singapore, Switzerland, and Hong Kong. He discusses the complexities of literary translation, particularly regarding memory and identity in storytelling. The conversation dives into the writing process and the benefits of using Scrivener for managing intricate projects. Binge also talks about the excitement of adapting his novels to film and offers recommendations for captivating reads, blending literature with cinematic aspirations.

Mimi Kwa, an Australian television personality and author, shares her journey through her memoir, "House of Kwa," which uncovers the rich legacy of her Chinese family across four generations. She discusses her father's immigration story from Hong Kong to Australia and the impact of the White Australia Policy on their lives. The conversation dives into navigating cultural identity, familial expectations, and the cathartic experience of writing about personal trauma. Mimi also reveals how Scrivener has been instrumental in organizing her writing process and research.

April Davila, a novelist and mindfulness instructor, talks about her journey from science to storytelling, drawing inspiration from an ostrich farm for her novel '142 Ostriches.' She discusses how mindfulness practices enhance the writing process, helping authors balance family and creativity. April introduces her upcoming book, 'Scribbling Buddha,' and shares strategies for maintaining writing habits. The importance of writing communities and tools like Scrivener is highlighted, offering insights into effective organization and motivation in the creative journey.

David Goodman, a novelist and short fiction writer, discusses his debut novel, A Reluctant Spy, which follows an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary espionage. He delves into the emotional turbulence faced by spies and the ethical dilemmas of their secret lives. Goodman also shares insights on navigating the publishing world, emphasizing the importance of 'list fit' for authors. Finally, he reflects on how tools like Scrivener assist in mastering focus and creativity, transforming the writing process in today's fast-paced literary landscape.