Beth Stilborn: Books ~ Encouragement ~ Teaching ~ Hope
October 15, 2018
Many, perhaps most, of us know someone who deals with dementia. My first encounter with dementia was when I was in my early teen years, although that word was not commonly used then. We’d go over to visit my paternal grandparents, and Grandma would say, “Father is confused today.” We accepted this confusion as part of the package of Grandpa’s aging, although I never liked the fact that Grandma would…
October 8, 2018
Today is Thanksgiving in Canada. Usually I would write a post about some of the things I am grateful for, and in a way, this post is about gratitude, for gratitude is important. But it’s a different kind of gratitude than the sort we usually think about on Thanksgiving. As you know, I write for kids (and adults) and I’m working toward being published one day. There are many of…
October 1, 2018
Cue the herald trumpets! Those of you who have been reading my blog for some time will know that October 1 is a special day of celebration for me. It is the birthday of three people whom I admire, who have directly or indirectly provided guidance, example, wisdom, and strength. As is my custom when October 1 falls on or near a blogging day, today I want to celebrate those…
September 24, 2018
Title: Amina’s Voice Author: Hena Khan Publisher: New York: Salaam Reads/Simon & Schuster Children’s, 2017 Genre: Middle Grade Fiction Audience Age: 9 to 12 Themes/Topics: empowerment, racism, feeling comfortable with who you are, lifting up your voice Opening Sentences: Something sharp pokes me in the rib. “You should totally sign up for a solo,” Soojin whispers from the seat behind me in music class. I shake my head. The mere…
September 17, 2018
First of all, a word of explanation: this is the first post in a new monthly series called This Writer’s Voice. Please note that the series is not about the elusive concept known as “voice” in writing. It’s a series about writing, looking at the hows and whats and whys of writing, both my writing and the writing of other people. I hope you’ll find it interesting and I hope…
September 10, 2018
Actually, International Dot Day is actually September 15th-ish, but I figured the 10th was ish-ish enough to celebrate. International Dot Day grew out of Peter H. Reynolds’ wonderful book, THE DOT, which my friend Patricia Tilton reviewed here. If you haven’t read THE DOT, please do, and also read the companion books ISH and SKY COLOR which comprise Peter’s “Creatrilogy.” International Dot Day was the brainchild of teacher Terry Shay,…
September 3, 2018
It’s time for a new blogging season here at By Word of Beth, and I’m ready for it. I’m planning what I hope will be interesting and engaging posts, including: a series looking at why and how I write, and why and how others write, including profiles of other writers and the occasional interview posts that explore the basics of my logo – empowerment, arts, and words sharing…
July 2, 2018
I’m taking a blogging break, but I’ll be back in the fall, with a new look for the site and revived blogging energy. I won’t be idle over the summer, though. As well as working on my own writing, I will be revamping all my websites with a new look. I’m looking forward to the new look. Please note, my freelance editing service, FLUBS2FIXES will remain open for copy editing…