More Reading Needed

I think when I return from my cruise, I will spend some time at the Library and read some more children's books in my target age group. It's been a while since I read them, and I need to steep some more in that genre. Need to make sure I am on the correct level and tone, etc. I have read in several places that one must really do research when writing kids books, and that means reading books that are already out there. I have read a lot of the Magic Treehouse books. This is the type of book that I am writing. I like them because they have adventure as well as a bit of a history lesson added in.

Danube River Cruise

Well, only 11 more days until I board a plane for Budapest! Wow, I thought this trip would never get here, and now I'm thinking that I don't have enough time to get ready! We will be flying into Budapest, and spend two days there. Then we'll cruise the River Danube for 7days, passing through Austria, Germany, Bratislavia and other spots I can't think of right now. Finally, we will spend three days in Prague. It will be so much fun! Looking forward to all the delicious regional cuisine as well as the sights. :)

Wordgrove Newsletter

I was asked to write this weeks Wordgrove Newsletter. I thought I'd make the theme about music and it's influence on our creativity. Here's an excerpt from the newsletter:
Remember the last time you watched a scary movie? The slow creeping steps moving towards the hero.
The heart pounding anticipation of what will happen next. Then suddenly, aiiieeee!!
What enhanced that horribly delightful tension? What thing, possibly more than the cinematography or the facial expressions of the actor made that moment writhe with pure horror?
Why, the music of course!
Music's ability to create atmosphere and evoke strong emotions cannot be over estimated.
Music has the power to calm to heal to energize. It can create feelings of love and hate in equal measure.

Next time you are stuck trying to get your writing mojo going, put on some music and watch those juices begin to flow!

Music is what feelings sound like.
Author Unknown

Music can noble hints impart,
Engender fury, kindle love,
With unsuspected eloquence can move,
And manage all the man with secret art.
Joseph Addison

When words leave off, music begins.
Heinrich Heine

What we provide is an atmosphere of orchestrated pulse
Which works on people in a subliminal way.
Under its influence I've seen shy debs and severe dowagers
kick off their shoes and raise some wholesome hell.
Meyer Davis, about his orchestra

Here are trailers from two movies who's music has become part of the human psyche.
Listen to how the music creates the atmosphere and tension in each scene.

Psycho Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG3-GlvKPcg

Jaws Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucMLFO6TsFM