Science, Books, and Random Thoughts

       Hello everyone. I am starting a new project in my writing endeavors. As a former science teacher, I know how difficult it is to get students to read anything in a textbook. I don't blame them. Textbooks are dull, dry, and not all that interesting to read unless you are super invested in the information already. It occurred to me that if I could write a few short stories to give a bit of fun and flavor to a set of science content facts, it might be something teachers could use to get students to buy into reading. And just maybe get them to have some investment into reading their textbooks as a follow-up to the short stories.      Anyway, I have begun a few of the stories on a variety of science content topics and would like your help. I have added a link below to take you to one of these stories. If you would like to participate, All I ask is that you read the story, and comment about it here on this blog page. Let me know what you think. Does th...

 As a retired science teacher, I learned that, while most teachers are powerful, dedicated, and inspiring individuals, far too many educators in traditional school settings kill the joy of learning. Now this is, to a great deal, not their fault. Curriculum requirements, testing needs, overwork and overcrowding in a stressful environment, and many other factors force the teachers to limit what they would love to do with their subject matter. Such is the nature of teaching.  At the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, we make learning fun! It also helps to have a bunch of very unusual and creative educators to pull it off so well. This is a testament to how the love of learning can be made fun and accessible to everyone when many of the traditional restrictions are removed. What are your thoughts?

 Today I would like to introduce you to the very first of my guest authors. Maria DeVivo has written eight dark fantasy and apocalyptic books you need to check out. The book we are featuring today is Witch of the Black Circle: Book One of the Dawn of the Black Witch series. Book Two is slated to arrive in June of this year. You can find more information about Maria and her books here:  Maria Devivo Maria has two more series for you to enjoy as well. The Altered, an apocalyptic tale in three parts, and The Coal Elf Chronicles, a fantasy series with a great twist on the story of Santa Claus. Plus the added fun of a coloring book! To get to know Maria a little better here are her answers to a set of questions I asked. I hope you enjoy her Q&A. Hopefully I will have insights into more authors in the future.   Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want? I think it’s a little bit of both. In the realm of literature, it’s kind of hard to b...