Before we get to the draw, I'd like to tell you a bit about the book.
I finished my own copy (in case you thought I was sending out my used one) of Sylvanus Now on Wednesday. One of the things that makes writing great is a writer's ability to create another world for us. That is something Donna does with great skill.
When I read one of her books about Newfoundland in the 50s and 60, I feel as though I've been transported to a previous century. For those of us who remember growing up in that era, the place and life Donna describes is somewhere outside of most of our experiences. It is this life -- the life in Newfoundland's outports -- that she brings to us in a way that no other can.
When she writes about the collapse of the fishery, her prose doesn't slip into sermonizing, as it might. Instead, she captures the anguish and utter stupidity of it all with a dexterity that had me racing through the pages with my heart in my throat.
In the pages of Sylvanus Now, you'll discover the heartbeat of something we've lost that's been recaptured for us to experience.
I believe it is a rare writer who can perform such a feat.
Thank you, Donna. I am looking forward to your next book next year.
Now, without further ado, may I have a drum roll, please? (I guess that technically counts as further ado, but, hey, this is my blog!)
My hand is dipping into the container and... the winner of the Sylvanus Now contest is..... Carla!
Congratulations! I hope you enjoy the book as much as I have.
For everyone, if you haven't already, begin to explore the works of Atlantic Canada authors. (If you aren't sure where to look, check out interviews on this blog done with Ami McKay, Linda Little, Maureen Hull and, of course, Donna.)
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And now the last submission for the contest. This one isn't eligible because it comes from my partner Pat, whose words I have promised not to edit -- even if they embarrass me. That was the deal. I think it's kinda sweet that he -- a guy who doesn't usually write -- would make the effort to send something in. So, here it is: Pat's view of things.
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Living with a writer
by
Patrick McCarthy
Being a creative person is a wonderful gift. Sharing ideas, art, music and writing for others to enjoy. To most it brings a few hours of pleasure.To some it brings a life changing insight never before realized. Not everyone gets to see the other side of the page though. That's where the the time agonizing over ideas, characters, just the right phrases and creating the all important hook, occurs.
I have been discovering that side for the last year and a half. Now, I never read a book where I don't think of the author's journey to get that book to print. The long and winding maze that brings frustration, disappointment and heartbreak before jubilation. I don't think the general public realizes how much heart and soul goes into toiling for weeks, months and years to do something that is a passion. It has to be a passion or it would be just plain insanity!
I have discovered, over the last four years, what it's like to be living with a passionate, creative person. I feel the frustration and disappointments right along with her. I also feel my own disappointments and frustrations, even jealousy.
Disappointment when I come home after work and find she is on a creative roll, I know I'll have to wait longer to enjoy her company.
Frustration when that may be the case for days or weeks.
Jealousy when writing becomes another partner that demands all her time.
I can sympathize with others who are in the same position as I am, but I can also hope that they enjoy being there as much as I do.
I have discovered that there is no where else I would rather be. I enjoy being with someone who is so full of life and I am totally in love with my beautiful, creative writer.
