Latinidad – May 2006: The Revision Process

Contents:
1. Saludos: The Revision Process
2. Q&A: Jotham Burrello
3. Upcoming Workshops: What Editors Want Workshop
4. Writing Opportunities: Disney/ABC Seeks Writers of Color
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and
click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
Completing a manuscript makes you an aspiring writer; polishing a
manuscript turns you into a professional. If you've ever submitted a
first or second draft of a manuscript to an agent or editor and
wondered why it was rejected, you need to master the revision
process. To that end, I enthusiastically recommend the DVD "So, Is
It Done? Navigating the Revision Process" to every writer, beginner
and beyond. Learn more by checking out the Q&A below with producer
Jotham Burrello. Note: Latinidad readers can receive a 20% discount
off the retail price when ordering online at:
http://www.erpmedia.net/discount.html .

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

2. Q&A
Jotham Burrello is an adjunct professor in the Fiction Writing
Department at Columbia College where he directs the Publishing Lab,
a center to assist writers in finding homes for their stories. He
has a BA from Indiana University and an MFA from Columbia College.
His writing has appeared in various journals including Pennsylvania
English, Sudden Stories, Cymbals, and the Christian Science Monitor.
At work on his second novel, he is the former editor of the literary
journal Sport Literate. His media company, Elephant Rock
Productions, published the anthology All Hands On, The 2nd Hand
Reader plus produced two writing DVD titles.

Many beginning writers don't trust their own insight or editing
skills. How can "So, Is It Done?" help them develop the confidence
and ability to self-edit?
On the DVD writer Ron Carlson explains he just doesn't pick up a
pencil and say, "I'm gonna make this story better." Writers need to
develop strategies to attack a manuscript. It's what we call process—
on the DVD we get specific. The DVD breaks down the revision process
into five rounds that present strategies for revision. Exercises on
the disc correspond to each round. After watching the program
writers will be armed with strategies to reshape their stories.
      For example, host Janet Burroway gives two examples of concrete
significant detail. The entire close-up section in round three is
devoted to it. As Burroway says on the DVD, "fiction comes alive
with concrete significant detail." Writers should understand the
importance of the terms "concrete" and "significant" and strive for
both. I see too much summary and general description in student
manuscripts. Force yourself to "see it" as your characters see it so
readers can see and experience your stories.
      Recognizing the shortcomings of your own fiction or creative
nonfiction is a difficult task. Even the published authors on the
DVD acknowledge they struggle but what sets them apart is that they
have action plans or tricks to identify and "fix" the problems. This
takes many years, and we're always learning, because each story
presents unique challenges. And sometimes stories don't work. For
every published story a writer might have three to four that aren't
published. Remember stories are never finished, simply abandoned. Of
course it's nice to abandon them in magazines or books. We all want
that.

Writing is a solitary and private act; writing workshops are
communal and public. Why, then, are writing workshops highly
recommended as part of the revision process?
Was it Emerson who said you can't see the field from within the
field? We all need teachers and peers to create art. And I'm not
talking about taking verbatim feedback and putting it into your
story. Sometimes it's what's not said in a feedback session that
gets you thinking.
      There are generative workshops and critique-based workshops.
The former are more focused on getting it out and the latter are
equipped to steer revision. I think both are necessary, but the
critique needs to always remain focused on the work and not the
writer. When getting feedback writers should listen to everyone and
then make decisions based on what the story needs. On the DVD I
interview writer Ken Foster (and we visit his class) and discuss
running a workshop, how writers should participate, read manuscripts
and receive feedback. We also have a four-page guide for running a
workshop. Establishing certain grounds rules helps save time and
egos.
      Lastly, workshops and writing groups help writers build a
social community of like-minded folks that can assist one other in
placing stories in magazines, or setting up readings, or discussing
revisions, or books, etc. We're a nation of interest groups. Why not
start your own writing group at a local café? I'm attending a
meeting of writers this evening. We've been at it for five years. I
think it's my turn to bring the vino.

What are the five most common mistakes writers make when revising
their work?
      1. To paraphrase Faulkner, an inability to kill our darlings.
Many stories start from a frenzied journal entry unleashed from a
bit of overheard gossip at Starbucks, or from a dream, or a New York
Times dispatch from New Orleans . . . inspiration for first drafts
is exciting. We write for ourselves or perhaps for an audience
initially. But after you've completed a first draft—written a
beginning, middle and end—you must shift gears and look at the work
with a lens of detachment. This is hard to do. But you must begin to
ask questions of the work and make changes based on what the work
needs, and not on what you, the writer, wants to happen to your hero
or what your sister will think is funny. Too many writers don't make
this shift. In revision prioritize the work, then self, and
audience. As writer William Knott wrote in his book The Craft of
Fiction, "anyone can write—and almost everyone you meet these days
is writing. However, only the writers know how to rewrite. It is
this ability alone that turns the amateur into a pro."
      2. Lack of plot. I read a lot of good student stories but very
few well plotted stories. And don't think of plot as simply a genre
term. We all want to be entertained. I suggest once you've completed
a solid draft chart the events described in your scenes and ask two
simple questions: How does the action in this scene lead to the
next? Is the drama increasing?
      3. Show, don't tell. [See concrete significant detail comment
above]
      4. Find the Save As key in your word processing program and use
it often. Stories take months, sometimes years, to evolve. And by
numbering or collecting drafts you can later reflect the evolution
of your story, but most importantly each time you sit down you will
give yourself a fresh start. You won't be messing with your initial
inspiration simply reshaping it into a plot. I'm currently on draft
twenty-five of a story I am revising.
      5. A teacher once told me, real life is no excuse for bad
fiction. Translation: just because an event happened to you or
cousin Freddy doesn't make it dramatic. Every writer uses personal
or observed or told experiences to create fiction but published
writers build on real events and embellish and dramatize to create
new worlds and characters. Use "real life" for inspiration, not as
the entire basis for a story. As Dorothy Parker said in a 1959
interview with Studs Terkel, "You can't put down what everybody
says, you'd be bored stiff."

There are countless books, magazines, and web sites designed to help
writers--why did you choose the DVD format, and how does it
complement the other resources available to writers?
I have an entire bookshelf of writing texts, and I own just a tiny
fraction of what book publishers are pumping out each year. We don't
need another book on craft but a multimedia tool seemed like a nice
alternative. The DVD format allows the mixing of video and text (PDF
files) so in a sense you get the best of both worlds. (You can't do
this on VHS or CD-ROM.) Our DVD includes a 121-page book of stories
from the participants. You can hear Robert Olen Butler discuss
significant detail then read a story from his Pulitzer Prize winning
collection. This is a huge advantage of the DVD technology. Plus
there are exercises corresponding to each round of revision.
      I wanted to give writers access to published writers discussing
their craft "live." This very rarely happens at public panels or
readings (and when it does it usually is in response to omnibus
questions like "what's your writing process?" that can't be answered
in thirty seconds). Plus there are hundreds of textbooks on the
topic of writing but few that concentrate on revision. It's a
complicated process and very personal (we all know what we do well
and not so well), so by showing writers in their homes or writing
retreats we can "see" their revision strategies.
      I wanted to work with the renowned writer and educator Janet
Burroway. I'm a big admirer of her textbook, Writing Fiction and
thought we could take on the revision chapter. But I knew of course
that discussing revision involved a rehashing of setting,
characterization, POV, voice, the whole ball of wax. Janet presents
material in a manner that's accessible and motivating. She's a
terrific lady.
      Lastly, I think folks learn in different ways. Some of us are
visual beasts, others auditory, etc. I am hoping to engage younger
writers who don't get psyched about textbooks but rather respond to
multimedia to spark their creativity. That said I wasn't going to do
the project without examples of good writing, thus the inclusion of
the e-book. I think of the video on the DVD as a gateway to reading.

In addition to being a video producer, you teach creative writing
and are a writer. How has your writing background inspired and
influenced "So, Is It Done?"
Writing stories and books is the hardest thing I've ever done. But I
believe if I keep after it someday I'll produce solid prose. Of
course it takes more than craft to create memorable stories but
knowing strategies to revise manuscripts helps when inspiration
hits.
      I've edited a literary journal, published stories, taught
creative writing, and produced how-to or instructional videos for
over 15 years with educators at Indiana University. So these DVDs
were my first chance to merge my technical background as a video guy
with my writing interest. On this project I shot some interviews,
edited the tape, as well as co-wrote the script, and conducted the
interviews. Plus, I wanted to provide a product for my writing
students. They were my guiding light in the editing room. What I've
found is that writers at all levels need reminding and strategies
for revising their fiction and creative nonfiction.

Buy the DVD: Latinidad readers can receive a 20% discount off the
retail price when ordering online at:
http://www.erpmedia.net/discount.html .

3. Upcoming Workshops
What Editors Want Workshop

WHAT: The difference between writers who get book deals and those
who don't isn't talent—it's knowledge. Topics discussed include: why
writing conferences are a better investment than M.F.A. programs;
the supreme importance of a platform, and how to create one; and the
three most common mistakes writers make when pursuing a writing
career. (This workshop can be taken in conjunction with the Achy
Obejas workshop; visit http://www.toltecatl.com.mx/ for more
information.)

WHEN: Saturday, June 24

WHERE: Sayulita, a beach town on the Pacific Coast of Mexico

REGISTER: Please visit http://www.toltecatl.com.mx/ .

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

4. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
DISNEY/ABC SEEKS WRITERS OF COLOR
Deadline: June 23
The Writing Fellowship Program from Walt Disney and ABC Studios is
looking for new writing talent. Writers with experience in
playwriting, screenwriting and television writing are encouraged to
apply, especially women and minorities. Applications must include
resume, autobiography and a writing sample of a screenplay, stage
play, or television script. If accepted, candidates would be
required to locate in the Los Angeles area during the fellowship.
For more information, visit http://www.abctalentdevelopment.com/ .
*****
NORTH COUNTRY INSTITUTE FOR WRITERS OF COLOR
Dates: June 11-16
The North Country Institute for Writers of Color provides emerging
writers of color (poets, fiction writers, and creative non fiction
writers) in urban areas with an opportunity to attend a six day
writing retreat where they will receive writing instruction and
conference with writing faculty and workshop leaders in a facility
overlooking Lake Champlain in northeastern New York. For more
information, visit
http://www.plattsburgh.edu/offices/academic/writersofcolor/valcourret
reat.php .
*****
THE WRITER SHORT MEMOIR CONTEST
Deadline: June 30
Seeking essays about meaningful personal experiences. First prize is
$1000 plus publication in The Writer magazine. Judge is Peter M.
Leschak, author of The Bear Guardian. For more information, visit
http://www.writermag.com/wrt/default.aspx?c=a&id=2825.
*****
LATINO SCREENPLAY COMPETITION
Deadline: July 15
Announcing the first Annual Latino Screenplay Competition (LSC). Now
accepting feature-length and short screenplays for consideration for
cash prizes and other awards. The mission of the LSC is to cultivate
a greater interest in Latino-themed screenplays and promote talented
screenwriters of Latino-themed scripts in Hollywood. Apply at
WithoutABox.com and save $5! It is NOT requirement that the
screenwriter be Latino, but the script must maintain some aspect of
Latino life, culture and/or its people. Visit
http://www.latinoscreenplaycompetition.com/ for more information.
*****
CALL FOR ASSOCIATE EDITORS AND WRITERS
Sable Magazine is seeking Volunteer Associate Editors of Latin,
Asian and Native American descent to join their Editorial Board in
an effort to adequately represent all segments of the demographic
they aim to reach. They are also seeking steady contributors for the
following departments: Travel, Sports, Health and Fitness, and Arts
& Leisure. If interested in either position, please send a cover
letter and resume along with a writing sample via email to Editor-in-
Chief Susan A. Webley at editor@.... For more info
about the magazine please visit http://www.sablemagazine.com/ .
*****
LISTEN & BE HEARD WEEKLY SEEKS ETHNIC WRITERS
Listen & Be Heard Weekly is seeking an array of ethnic and cultural
voices to help fulfill the promise of diversity. Volunteers are
needed to write: Jazz reviews of CDs and/or live shows, spa reviews,
dance & theatre reviews, live music & concert reviews, health &
fitness column, movie reviews of popular and/or art films, and arts
in the schools. If interested in any of these positions, please send
a 400-600 word sample to Martha at editor@.... For
more information, visit http://www.listenandbeheard.net/ .
*****
SEEKING POEMS IN TRANSLATIONS
Languageandculture.net, an online poetry journal, welcomes original
poetry and their English translation in the following languages:
Spanish, French, German, Russian, Italian and the Slavic languages.
They accept translations of known writers; please include the
original language. Poems and their translations are both published.
Please visit http://languageandculture.net/ for submission
guidelines.
*****
AY, MIJA! WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE AN ENGINEER?
Ay, Mija! Why Do You Want to be an Engineer? is for the young adult
market. The book features twelve Latina engineers from around the
country, telling their stories of when they were young girls and
what inspired them to go into engineering, a career not
traditionally sought by young Latinas. Out of about three million
engineers in the U.S., less than 1% are Latinas. The book provides
positive role models for all young adults, especially minority
students and is the first book in a series of Ay, Mija! and Ay,
Mijo! books planned to provide role models students can identify
with. To purchase books and for more information, visit
http://3noseybroads.com/mija/index.html .
*****
CHICK LIT WORKSHOP
The Chick Lit Workshop at ¡Azúcar! Para el Espíritu located in
Miami, FL is open to anyone interested in writing contemporary
women's literature. Later on two more general workshops will be
opened, one in Spanish and the other in English, which are for those
individuals interested in writing fiction. Critique work will be
done in class therefore most of the writing should be done outside
of class. Register by calling 305-646-8003 or emailing
azucar2005@... . Visit
http://www.azucarparaelespiritu.com/ for more information.
*****
CRITICAS MAGAZINE SEEKS BILINGUAL EDITOR
Críticas magazine, a monthly online magazine with two print editions
and an online monthly newsletter, seeks an editor, bilingual in
Spanish and English, to work on this award-winning publication.
Críticas: An English Speaker's Guide to the Latest Spanish Language
Titles (http://www.criticasmagazine.com/ ) is geared primarily
toward book buyers in the library and bookstore markets. It covers
the burgeoning Spanish-language U.S. market through reviews of
books, video, and audio, as well as publishing news and stories on
service trends in bookstores and libraries and author interviews.
The ideal candidate will be fluent in both English and Spanish,
possess a deep interest in and understanding of Latino/a culture in
the U.S., and have at least two years editing, reporting, and/or
library experience. She or he will work closely with Library Journal
magazine, of which Críticas is a part, as well as represent Críticas
in the national and international community. Please submit resume
and salary requirements to Rebecca Miller at miller@....
*****
NOMINATE WWW.MARCELALANDRES.COM
If you like my web site, please nominate it for next year's Writer's
Digest Magazine's "The 101 Best Web Sites for Writers" list. Send
nominations to writersdig@... with "101 Best Web Sites" as
the subject line and include a brief note explaining how
http://www.marcelalandres.com/ has helped you. Thank you in advance
for your support!
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I edit manuscripts, critique proposals and advise on how to launch
and maintain a successful writing career. If you are interested in a
consultation, please visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ , click on
Consultations, and follow the instructions.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
CHANGE E-MAIL ADDRESS/READ BACK ISSUES
To change your e-mail address and/or to read back issues of
Latinidad visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad, please credit The
Latinidad Newsletter and include a link to
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, fill out the
Newsletter Survey on http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell
me what doesn't work and why.
*********************************************************************
"The pain of the discipline is short, but the glory of the fruition
is eternal."—Harriet Beecher Stowe

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

I am delighted to announce that the Latinidad newsletter
(http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/) was chosen as one of
the 101 Best Web Sites for Writers under the category of Genre/Niche
by Writer's Digest magazine. You can check out the complete list in
the May 2006 issue.

To each of you who took the time to nominate Latinidad, I thank you
from the bottom of my heart. I created the newsletter with the
specific intention of helping Latino writers get published, and this
honor both validates my work and inspires me to continue.

My goal is to have my web site (http://www.marcelalandres.com/) on
next year's list. Please nominate it by sending an email to
writersdig@... with "101 Best Web Sites" as the subject line
and include a brief note explaining how the web site has helped you.
Thank you in advance for your support!

With gratitude,
Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

Latinidad – April 2006: Children's Books

Contents:
1. Saludos: Children's Books
2. Q&A: Adriana Dominguez
3. Upcoming Workshops: Chica Lit Club Fiesta
4. Writing Opportunities: Children's Book Writers Conference
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and
click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
According to Criticas magazine, as of 2004 more than half of Spanish
language and bilingual books for children were imported from Latin
America and Spain. Given that the Census Bureau reports that by 2025
one in four children in the U.S. will be Latino, agents and editors
arguably need to find and publish Latino children's book writers and
illustrators to serve this growing market. One children's book
editor who is actively seeking Latino writers is featured in the Q&A
below.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

2. Q&A
Adriana Dominguez is an Executive Editor in the children's book
division of HarperCollins. Before joining Harper, she was Criticas
magazine's Children's Review Editor. She has many years of
publishing experience in the children's market, and has worked for
most major publishers, such as Scholastic, Harcourt, McGraw-Hill,
and Santillana U.S.A, among others, on either a full-time or
freelance basis.

Why is HarperCollins Children's Books a great home for Latino
writers?
HarperCollins Children's Books is a major publisher with a
reputation for excellence and innovation in the field of children's
book publishing. The fact that this company now has an in-house
Latina editor dedicated to Latino children's books through
their "Rayo" imprint displays its commitment to the Latino market,
and represents an opportunity for Latino children's authors to join
the ranks of classic and bestselling authors such as Eric Carle,
Maurice Sendak, and Margaret Wise Brown.

Which Latino authors has HarperCollins Children's Books published?
Most recently, Rayo helped Grammy Award-winner singer-songwriter
Gloria Estefan add "New York Times best-selling author" to her long
list of credits. Rayo is also the publisher of literary icon Isabel
Allende's wildly popular young adult trilogy. Additionally, we have
published established and respected Latino children's authors such
as Alma Flor Ada, Isabel Campoy, and Lulu Delacre.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
Because Rayo is expanding, we are afforded the luxury of publishing
all types of relevant work written by Latinos in Spanish, English
and bilingually. Rayo recognizes the wonderful diversity of this
market, and its interests reflect that.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
By submitting original work that speaks to the current Latino
realitie(s) in the U.S., by avoiding stereotyping while managing to
recognize the rich Latino culture and capturing its spirit.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become successfully published?
Honing their craft is the smartest way to get published; don't
submit an unfinished work, or a work in progress; you often get only
one shot to make an impression on a publisher, make it count. Also,
keep yourself informed; see what is being published and what needs
to but hasn't yet; keep abreast of the market's trends, and if
possible, stay one step ahead of them.

Send submissions to: Adriana Dominguez, Executive Editor,
HarperCollins Children's Books and Rayo, 1350 Avenue of the
Americas, New York, NY 10019-4703
HarperCollins Children's web site:
http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/harperchildrens/
Rayo web site: http://www.harpercollins.com/imprints.asp?
imprint=Rayo

3. Upcoming Workshops
WHAT: Founded and organized by best-selling author Alisa Valdes-
Rodriguez, The Chica Lit Club Fiesta is the first and only
mainstream chick lit event aimed at modern Latinas in the United
States. The fiesta will feature all the excitement of a literary
conference, plus the fun of being in one of the world's most
beautiful cities. The event will include panels, readings, and book-
signings with your favorite Chica lit authors; group brunches and
dinners with inspiring Latina celebrity and author keynote speakers;
pampering, beaches, shopping and nightclubs; there will also be a
book fair sponsored by Books & Books of Miami. For a schedule of
events, visit http://www.chicalitclub.com/schedule.html

WHEN: Friday, May 19 through Sunday, May 21

WHERE: Wyndham Miami Beach Resort, 4833 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach,
FL 33140

TO REGISTER: Visit http://www.chicalitclub.com/registration.html

QUESTIONS?: Contact info@... or (505) 573-2892

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

4. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
CHILDREN'S BOOK WRITERS CONFERENCE
Date: August 4-7
The Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators offers two
conferences a year, covering subjects from poetry to plot structure,
marketing to time management, revisions to royalties. The conference
continues to expand its program for illustrators as well, with a
heavy emphasis on the craft and technique of picture book
illustration. To register and for more information, visit
http://www.scbwi.org/events.htm.
*****
CITY COLLEGE SEEKS ENGLISH LIT LECTURERS
Closing Date: April 16
Appointment Available: September 1
The English Department seeks two lecturers to teach undergraduate
courses in composition, literature, and creative writing. Teaching
load will be 27 contact hours with possible reduction for
administrative responsibilities. For more information visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/ then click on Writing Opportunities
then Jobs.
*****
HISPANIC WRITER AWARD
Deadline: May 1
For fiction, non-fiction, or poetry. Open to any New Mexican
resident of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish heritage. For more
information visit
http://www.unm.edu/~taosconf/scholarships/Hispanic.htm.
*****
WRITING WORKSHOP IN SAYULITA, MEXICO
Application Deadline: May 1
Workshop Date: June 18 - 25
Fiction workshop led by award-winning novelist, journalist and poet,
with an emphasis story, voice and craft. Lively, in-depth workshop
critique and one-on-one conferencing. Writers will meet for three
hours each weekday morning to discuss and critique their classmates'
manuscripts. Afternoons are open for one-on-one conferences with
Obejas and for individual writing time. For more information, visit
http://www.toltecatl.com.mx/.
*****
HBO SHORT FILM COMPETITION
Deadline: May 5
HBO has teamed with The New York International Latino Film Festival
to find the next hot Latino filmmaker. The winner will receive
$15,000 in funding to produce and direct on digital video an
original short film narrative. The winning film will be presented on
screen this summer during the New York International Latino Film
Festival. To apply and for more information visit
http://www.nylatinofilm.com/ .
*****
CHICANO/LATINO LITERARY PRIZE
Deadline: June 1
The Department of Spanish and Portuguese at the University of
California, Irvine invites submissions of an unpublished full-length
play in Spanish or English. For more information, visit
http://www.hnet.uci.edu/spanishandportuguese/contest.html .
*****
LATINO PUBLIC BROADCASTING OPEN CALL
Deadline: June 5
An open invitation to independent producers to submit proposals for
a public television program or series on any subject that relates to
or is representative of Latino Americans. For guidelines and more
information visit http://www.lpbp.org/
*****
LATIN-AMERICAN EROTICA ANTHOLOGY
Deadline: July 1
Anthology entitled "Erotically Ours" seeks submissions of erotica in
the form of stories, poetry, and prose on the Latino experience of
erotica. For submission guidelines and more information visit
http://www.eroticallyours.com/ .
*****
NBC SEEKS DIVERSE WRITERS
NBC seeks ethnically diverse writers, males and females, all
minority ethnicities, for scripted NBC primetime series and
programming. The NBC Diversity Initiative program provides funding
for minority staff writer positions that are selected and hired by
the showrunner/producers of each show, with the guidance of the
network and studio(s). Scripts are accepted year-round for
screening; however, positions are generally filled during the March-
June staffing season. For more information, visit
http://www.nbc.com/NBC_Career_Opportunities/Diversity_Initiative_for_
Writers.html .
*****
POETS & WRITERS' DIRECTORY
Poets & Writers' Directory of American Poets and Writers includes
contact information for over 6,000 poets, fiction writers, creative
nonfiction writers, and spoken word artists. The Directory is used
by agents, editors, and reading series coordinators; the goal is to
include all qualified writers in it (qualifications are specified on
the application). If you qualify, please apply for listing, which is
free-of-charge, on their Web site, http://www.pw.org/ . The
application is easy to complete and should take no more than five
minutes of your time. P.S. Please help us spread the word about the
Directory by letting other qualified writers know about it.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I edit manuscripts, critique proposals and advise on how to launch
and maintain a successful writing career. If you are interested in a
consultation, please visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ , click on
Consultations, and follow the instructions.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
CHANGE E-MAIL ADDRESS/READ BACK ISSUES
To change your e-mail address and/or to read back issues of
Latinidad™ visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, fill out the
Newsletter Survey on http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell
me what doesn't work and why.
*********************************************************************
"Writing is only a guided dream."—Jorge Luis Borges

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

Latinidad™ Newsletter – March 2006: Grupo Nelson

Contents:
1. Saludos: Grupo Nelson
2. Q&A: Larry Stone
3. Upcoming Workshops: What Editors Want Workshop, Chicago, IL
4. Writing Opportunities: Latina Chick Lit Writers Conference
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and
click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
Thomas Nelson has published Spanish language books for nearly
thirteen years, and has recently launched a division, Grupo Nelson,
which will actively target the Latino reader in both Spanish and
English. Unlike most publishing companies, Grupo Nelson has the
advantage of a strong distribution system internationally as well as
within the U.S. They are actively seeking Latino writers in a
variety of categories—see the Q&A below for specifics. Please note
that they do not accept unagented submissions.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

2. Q&A
Larry Stone is Vice President and Senior Acquisition Editor of Grupo
Nelson, a division of Thomas Nelson, Inc. has experience in all
aspects of book publishing – book production, manager of three book
clubs, and advertising manager. As editorial vice president of
Thomas Nelson Publishers, he oversaw the development of Nelson's
book publishing program until 1985. He then co-founded and was
president of Rutledge Hill Press, an independent publisher of
several New York Times bestsellers. In 2000 Rutledge Hill was sold
to Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Why is Grupo Nelson a great home for Latino writers?
What sets Grupo Nelson apart is the breadth of our sales and
marketing. There are many Spanish publishers that sell into Central
and South America effectively. And there are a number of Spanish
publishers that sell effectively in the U.S. With a firm base of
distribution in the U.S., Grupo Nelson also aggressively markets to
Latin America, bringing technology, process, and capital to its
efforts. Also, Grupo Nelson sells effectively into both the
Christian bookstore market and the general market.
	 In addition, we can publish a book for Hispanics in both
English and Spanish with simultaneous release of the two editions.
This increases consumer awareness of the title.

Which Latino authors has Grupo Nelson published?
For most of Grupo Nelson's history it has published books translated
from English by authors such as Max Lucado, John Maxwell, Brian
Tracy, Billy Graham, James Dobson, and Benny Hinn. However, it has
also published Latino authors such as Luis Palau, Andres Panasiuk,
David Hormachea, and Jose Caruci.
	 With our expansion, we will publish in the coming year books
by Dr. Aliza Lifshitz, Hada Maria Morales, and a number of other
prominent Latinos who we are talking to.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
For our Lider Latino imprint we seek books on leadership and
business. For our Editorial 10 Puntos imprint we seek books on
parenting and family, personal finance, health and fitness, self
help, and popular culture. For our Editorial Catolica imprint we
seek books for Catholics. And for our Editorial Betania imprint we
seek inspirational and popular religious books. We also have an
Editorial Caribe imprint that publishes Bibles and biblical
reference books.
	 A word of caution is that like most publishers we publish
only a few books each year that we can expect to sell well and the
authors of most of our books are already successful communicators
with a venue for promoting their books. In fairness, I need to
mention that we tend not to review manuscripts from authors unless
submitted by an agent.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
Two suggestions: (1) Think marketing. Who is going to buy your book
and why? You need to be able to have a very good answer to that
question because that's what a publisher wants to know. (2) Put
together a good proposal. The article on "How to Write a Winning
Book Proposal" by Nelson's president, Mike Hyatt, is a great place
to start. [The article can be found by visiting
http://www.thomasnelson.com/ and clicking "FAQ" then scrolling down
to "Manuscript Submission."]

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become successfully published?
For someone who loves writing, it's hard to realize that to be
successfully published, everyone that makes a decision on your book
must understand the book and why it will sell in 30 seconds or less –
  the "sales hook." That's why the title or the concept is so
important. The sales hook may be the author (You don't even need to
know the title to know the next book by Dan Brown will sell well) or
the subject. Two examples of a good title are America's Dumbest
Criminals (Everyone who hears the title laughs.) and 101 Secrets a
Good Dad Knows (with the copy line "How to skip a rock, How to
photograph lightning, How to carve a whistle – and other tricks of
the trade.")

Send submissions via agents to: Grupo Nelson, P.O. Box 141000,
Nashville, TN 37214
Grupo Nelson web site: http://www.gruponelson.com/

3. Upcoming Workshops
What Editors Want Workshop

WHAT: Writers who master the business of publishing are more likely
to be successfully published than writers who only master the craft
of writing. Writers of color in particular face unique challenges-
and opportunities. Topics discussed include: why 90% of proposals
are rejected based on the cover letter alone; the supreme importance
of a platform, and how to create one; and the three most common
mistakes writers make when pursuing a writing career.

WHEN: Thursday, March 16, 10:00a.m.

WHERE: Film Row Cinema, 8th Floor, Ludington Building, 1104 S.
Wabash, Columbia College, Chicago, IL

TO REGISTER: This is a free event, and no registration is required.
Sponsored by the Fiction Writing Department of Columbia College,
Chicago.

QUESTIONS?: Contact Joe Meno, jmeno@...

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

4. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
LATINA CHICK LIT WRITERS CONFERENCE
Date: May 19-May 21
The Chica Lit Club Fiesta is the first and only mainstream chick lit
event aimed at modern Latinas in the United States. The event will
include panels, readings, and book-signings with your favorite Chica
lit authors; group brunches and dinners with inspiring Latina
celebrity and author keynote speakers. The Chica Lit Club Fiesta was
founded and organized by author Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez, whom Time
magazine hailed as the "godmother of Chica Lit". To register and for
more information visit http://www.chicalitclub.com/ .
*****
NATIONAL BLACK WRITERS CONFERENCE
Date: March 30
Hosted by the Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College.
Confirmed authors include Marita Golden who will deliver the address
on the Conference theme, Haki Madhubuti, Valerie Wilson Wesley,
Walter Mosley, Samuel Delany, Walter Dean Myers, Quincy Troupe,
Ishmael Reed, Elizabeth Nunez, Willie Perdomo, and Camille
Yarborough, among others. Described by Walter Mosley as "the most
significant gathering of black writers in the country," the National
Black Writers Conference is the largest gathering of its kind in
North America. For more information visit
http://www.mec.cuny.edu/nbwc/ .
*****
SEEKING SUBMISSIONS FOR REGGAETON ANTHOLOGY
Deadline for abstracts: March 31
Deadline for submissions: June 15
Reading Reggaeton: Historical, Aesthetic and Critical Perspectives
is an anthology of scholarly articles, critical essays, interviews
and creative writings on reggaeton edited by Raquel Z. Rivera and
Deborah Pacini Hernández. For more information visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and click on Writing Opportunities
then Calls for Submissions.
*****
WRITES OF LIFE:WORKSHOP IN SAYULITA, MEXICO
Deadline to Apply: April 1
Date of Workshop: May 14 to 21
Turn your personal experiences into riveting stories, poems, essays,
memoir and lyrics. Everyone from well-published authors to novices
find this workshop to be very helpful in accessing their senses,
memories, dreams, inspirations, adventures and discoveries to plumb
for storywriting material. For more information visit
http://www.toltecatl.com.mx/ .
*****
EMORY UNIVERSITY NOVEL WRITING WORKSHOP
Deadline to Apply: April 14
Date: May 22 - May 26
A one-week workshop for writers actively engaged in writing a novel.
The workshop will focus on the art of writing a compelling novel
opening, and on a range of strategies for moving the work forward to
a completed first draft. Issues covered will include narrative
voice, structure, point of view, pacing, characterization and plot.
For more information visit
http://www.creativewriting.emory.edu/resources/festival.html .
*****
PETER TAYLOR PRIZE FOR NOVELS
Deadline: April 30
A prize of $1000 and publication by the University of Tennessee
Press is given annually for a novel written by a U.S. citizen. The
contest is open to both published and unpublished novelists. For
guidelines and more information visit
http://www.knoxvillewritersguild.org/ .
*****
SQUAW VALLEY WORKSHOPS
Deadline: May 10
Summer workshops in poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction are
offered. The program includes daily workshops, craft talks and
faculty readings. Past faculty members have included Alice Sebold
and Amy Tan. For more information visit
http://www.squawvalleywriters.org/ .
*****
VIRGINIA CENTER FOR THE CREATIVE ARTS FELLOWSHIP
Deadline: May 15
A two-week residency is given annually to a creative nonfiction
writer. The fellowship includes a bedroom, studio, and meals. For
guidelines and more information visit http://www.vcca.com/ .
*****
NATIONAL LATINO WRITERS CONFERENCE
Date: May 18-20
Nationally recognized authors, agents and editors will conduct
workshops and participate in panel discussions on fiction, poetry,
screenwriting, playwriting and memoir. All those who attend will
have the opportunity to have three individual appointments with
agents, authors and editors. To register and for more information
visit http://www.nhccnm.org/ .
*****
SAMBA DREAMERS BY KATHLEEN DE AZEVEDO
Samba Dreamers by Brazilian-American author Kathleen de Azevedo has
just been published as part of University of Arizona's Camino del
Sol series of Latino/a fiction and poetry. In this novel, the Brazil
of the imagination is shattered as two tortured souls wrestle with
the myths of movies, politics and the American Dream. Laced with
fantastic tales of bird-boys, Amazons, and lost conquistadors, it
spins a compelling story of desperation as it reminds us that
American freedom and the myth of unbridled opportunity can also
consume and destroy. For more information on the book, check out the
website: http://www.kathleenazevedo.com/.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I edit manuscripts, critique proposals and advise on how to launch
and maintain a successful writing career. If you are interested in a
consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm or by visiting
http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and clicking on Consultations.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
CHANGE E-MAIL ADDRESS/READ BACK ISSUES
To change your e-mail address and/or to read back issues of
Latinidad™ visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, e-mail me at
marcelalandres@... and tell me what doesn't work and why.
*********************************************************************
"Words should be as clothes, carefully custom-made to fit the
thought."—Jules Renard

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

Latinidad Newsletter – February 2006: Crafts

Contents:
1. Saludos: Crafts
2. Q&A: Kathy Cano Murillo
3. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
4. Writing Opportunities: Workshop for Writers of Color
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and
click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
According to a study done by the Hobby Industry Association with the
Cultural Access Group, 51% of Latino households participate in
crafts, and spend an estimated $1.9 million annually on crafts. And
yet there are only two crafts books on the market for Latinos—and
they're both written by the same author, Kathy Cano Murillo, who is
the subject of this month's Q&A. If you aspire to publish a crafts
book, there's a gaping hole on the bookshelf waiting for your
contribution.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

2. Q&A
One of my fondest childhood memories is of crocheting booties with
my sisters when our mother was expecting our baby brother. As an
adult I'd occasionally buy a crafts book and some supplies, hoping
to recreate that warm feeling, but invariably the book would remain
unread. Truth be told, I find most crafts books to be poorly written
and drably illustrated. In contrast, Kathy Cano Murillo's Crafty
Chica's Art de la Soul: Glittery Ideas to Liven Up Your Life, is a
breath of fresh air. This is likely the only crafts book you will
ever read from cover to cover solely for the writing. More than a
mere how-to, it's a guide to releasing your inner artist. A
nationally syndicated columnist for The Arizona Republic and Gannett
News Service, the wise and warm Cano Murillo proclaims, "In order to
make art from the soul, you have to be in touch with your soul." My
favorite project? The Hardback Book Purse—made out of a real
hardcover book!

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
I read oodles of books, from non-fiction to fiction. Right now I'm
really digging the creativity/motivational books such as 52 Projects
by Jeffrey Yamaguchi or Keri Smith's Living Out Loud. These books
aren't just about reading, they're about doing. I was bummed there
wasn't a Latino-themed book like that—light and whimsical with
a "craft your life" kind of message, so I wrote one! As far as
fiction, I'm a sucker for chica lit. I can hardly wait for Patrick
Sanchez's new book, "Tight," to come out. He has such a wicked sense
of humor, yet I *always* cry at the end of his books because they
are so sweet. And make that double everything for Alisa Valdes-
Rodriguez's upcoming "Make Him Look Good." The reasons I'm excited
for her book goes beyond the story. I follow her blog and find it
fascinating to read about her daily life and how she juggles single
motherhood, writing, politics - and the way she put her dreams into
action. Truly inspirational!

Why do you love to write?
For non-fiction, I love to inspire others to make the most of their
time on Earth. I try to come up with book ideas that will add value
to their lives that aren't mushy, but are playful and productive.
I'm also writing fiction. I'm currently polishing up my first novel.
I love writing fiction because it takes me to a world I wish
existed. And I can go there anytime as long as I sit at my computer
and click-clack away. I'm an artist, and writing is art too, except
I can't see any tangible supplies. They are stocked in my
imagination and they aren't even in order, like art supplies would
be! I have to search for them in the dark and that makes the journey
all the more challenging, breathtaking, exciting and unpredictable!
I love writing so much that I also keep a blog to journal the events
in my life. Even though I write for my day job as an entertainment
reporter, and then my craft books, my blog almost every night and
then my novel for a couple hours a night—you'd think I'd get burned
out. But I don't!

How did you meet your agent?
I actually have two agents, Scott Wachs and Jonathan Pecarsky, both
from the William Morris Agency. It was good karma. It was about
three years ago when my third book was just coming out. I was doing
my TV segment at the local station. The weather anchor loved my
artwork and books and told me she had a friend who was an agent and
that she would get me his card. While I knew she was genuine, I
assumed she would forget and I didn't want to embarrass myself and
ask for the card. After my segment, I was walking out of the
building and she ran after me and said: "Kathy! Here is my friend's
card! Call him! Tell him I sent you and good luck!" I took the card
and thanked her, but didn't look at it until I got in my car. It was
too good to be true. It was from Scott Wachs from The William Morris
Agency! When I got home from work that day, I was reluctant to call.
They rep people like Salma Hayek. I do crafts with glue guns and
glitter. Hello? But then I thought: "I'm the Crafty Chica! This
would be a crafty move to call him and pitch myself, my work and my
following! The crafts industry is a $31 billion a year business and
there are few Latina personalities! Call him!" So—I called. It
changed my life. We chatted for about 30 minutes and the next month
I was in New York and we met in person and have worked together ever
since. Scott's associate, literary agent Jonathan Pecarsky, came on
board to handle all my book contracts. Scott handles my TV work. I
learned such a valuable lesson. Never, EVER undervalue yourself. Now
I work it like Eva Longoria on the red carpet! OK, maybe not that
flashy. Bottom line? I knew I had something special with my "Crafty
Chica" business and I worked very hard to establish all kinds of
positive connections from every angle possible, so I should have had
faith that something good would come back to me.

What is your writing ritual?
I'm very disciplined. Because I'm a reporter, I'm great with
deadlines, even when there is not a deadline, like with my fiction.
I assign myself a deadline, because no one else will. When I'm
writing my entertainment and craft columns for work, it's during the
day and I'm surrounded by chatter in the newsroom. When I'm working
on a craft book, it is usually during the day or on weekends and I'm
surrounded by chatter from my family. But my novel? I write late at
night when everyone is in bed, and I'm surrounded by the chatter of
the characters. That, I can handle! Sometimes I stay up until 3 a.m.
and then go to work at 9 the next morning. I take vitamins and drink
plenty of water so I stay refreshed during the day. I do a lot of
TV, I can't have bags under my eyes! It is always a balancing act.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Get a web site. Don't think you have anything interesting to post
about yourself? You are in the wrong business! Even if it is a
simple blog, it's great practice and gets yourself out there and
shows publishers you are serious. It's a great way to build buzz for
your work. My web site (and blog) is how I made contact with
different editors for my books. Without those sites, I would not
have the crafty career I do now.

Never jump on a current trend. Instead, work on establishing a new
trend or seek to spot emerging trends. Force yourself to write a
little bit each day, even if it sucks. At least you have something
to work with. Don't let other writers psych you out. I wasted a year
before starting my novel because I kept reading all these fabulous
books and I would say: "I can never do that!" Now I say, "I'm going
to give it my best shot!" It's just a blank computer screen and you
have a delete button. It's not like Paris Hilton's palm pilot where
it will get leaked to all the media! You are the only one who has to
look at it. You have the power to change, rearrange and exchange it.
So have fun and go for it! Stay motivated. Keep a small blank
journal on you at all times to record ideas. Listen to writing
podcasts. I love http://www.ishouldbewriting.com and other online
shows that I can put on my iPod and listen to while I work out or
paint.

Love your space. Make your writing area comfy and stylized. Hang up
reminders of bad habits, or writing tips, or character traits. My
novel has a magical love shrine in it. So I made a glittery cigar
box love shrine and I have it at my desk when I write. Learn all you
can. Read when you have the time. Visit writing web sites or join
online or local writing groups. Read online writing message boards.
Go to author readings and ask questions. Visit your favorite
authors' web sites and read their bio page to see how they got
started. It will light your fire! Visit agent sites and read their
guidelines for submissions and the "do not do this" list. Stay
focused. Keep your writing at the top of your to-do list. Make it an
important part of your life so you will finish. See where you can
trim time from your schedule (i.e. Dancing with the Stars!). Work on
one idea/project at a time.

Obtain the book:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0060789425/marcelalandre-
20/103-8232088-8558235?%5Fencoding=UTF8&camp=1789&link%5Fcode=xm2
Visit author's web site: http://www.craftychica.com/

3. Upcoming Workshops
How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal, 3/2
Sponsored by the Learning Annex, Course 427DNY, Section Q

WHAT: Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is weak,
but because the writer failed to provide agents and editors with all
the information they need. This is especially true for fiction
proposals. Topics discussed include: the true purpose of a proposal;
why 90% of proposals are rejected based on the cover letter alone;
and the three most common mistakes writers make when preparing
proposals.

WHEN: Thursday, 3/2, 6:45 pm - 9:30 pm

WHERE: School for the Physical City, 55 East 25th Street b/w Madison
and Park Ave, New York City, NY

REGISTER: Call 212-371-0280 or visit http://www.learningannex.com/
and search for "427DNY"

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

4. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
WORKSHOP FOR WRITERS OF COLOR
Deadline: April 7
VONA (The Voices of Our Nation Arts Foundation) is a non-profit
organization associated with the University of San Francisco's
School of Education that is dedicated to nurturing writers through
the traditions, perspectives, and aesthetics of writers of color.
VONA was founded by Junot Diaz (author of Drown), Elmaz Abinader
(author of Children of the Roojme and In the Country of My Dreams)
and Executive Director Diem Jones. The impressive faculty has
included such acclaimed writers as Terry McMillan, Martin Espada,
and Willie Perdomo. To register and for more information visit
http://www.vona-voices.org/
*****
ZINE SEEKS EXPATRIATE STORIES
Deadline: March 1
Thereby Hangs a Tale is a new biannual print zine based in Portland,
OR. It explores stories that form around an idea, an object, an
image, a place or an experience. The inaugural theme for the first
issue is "expatriate." Its interpretation is up to the writer. To
check out submission categories (which include fiction, essay, how-
to, and lists), read an interview with poet Jon Woodward, submit a
story for our web-only "Show and Tale" feature, or cruise the
Resources for Writers page, please visit
http://www.therebyhangsatale.com/ .
*****
RANDOM HOUSE INTERNSHIPS
Deadline: March 1
Random House's internship program is geared to students between
their junior and senior years in college, and is geared towards
students who have a serious interest in the business of book
publishing. This ten-week session, which runs from mid-June to mid-
August, has been called "a first rate publishing internship" by The
Princeton Review. For more information, visit
http://www.randomhouse.com/careers/cg_intern.html .
*****
WHIDBEY ISLAND WRITERS' CONFERENCE
Date: March 3-5
Offers workshops, individual consultations with editors and agents,
sample critique sessions, fireside chats with more than 30 published
authors, and a writing contest. Presenters include Chris Bohjalian,
Hallie Ephron, and Cherry Adair. To register visit
http://www.writeonwhidbey.com/ .
*****
NAHJ STUDENT PROJECTS
Application Deadline: March 10
NAHJ offers several opportunities for selected students to become
involved in their annual convention. These students can work with
professional journalists in putting together a convention newspaper,
a television newscast, a radio newscast, or an online news Web site.
This program is open to college students who are pursuing careers in
English and Spanish-language print, photo, broadcast and online
media. Students do not have to be journalism majors to be eligible.
To learn more visit http://www.nahj.org/home/home.shtml .
*****
LATINO BOOK AWARDS
Deadline: March 17
Sponsored by the Latino Book & Family Festival. Authors can nominate
themselves. Self-published books are eligible. For guidelines visit
http://www.latinofestivals.com/home/ .
*****
CHICA LIT CLUB FIESTA CONTEST
Deadline: March 31
Would you like to attend the Chica Lit Club Fiesta for free? Submit
a 500-word essay on the topic "When I First Realized I Was a Sucia,"
using the meaning of the word found in the Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez
novel, "The Dirty Girls Social Club," as well as a paragraph
outlining why you think you are a writer. Send all materials as an
attachment to: alisa@... .In the subject line,
write Chica Lit Club Fiesta Essay. Be sure to include a short
biography and contact information with your submission. The winner
will have all expenses paid to the Chica Lit Club Fiesta 2006,
including airfare. The winner will also be asked to read her work
out loud at one of the brunch gatherings. Buena suerte, chicas! For
more information, visit http://www.chicalitclub.com/ .
*****
ALTA NATIONAL TRANSLATION AWARD
Deadline: March 31
A prize of $2,500 is given annually to honor a translator whose work
has made a valuable contribution to literary translation in the
previous year. Publishers may submit book-length translations of
poetry, fiction, drama and creative nonfiction. For more
information, visit http://www.literarytranslators.org/ .
*****
SEAL PRESS SEEKS SUBMISSIONS
Deadline: April 1
Seal Press seeks stories for an anthology to be published in winter
2007 entitled "Homelands: Women's Journeys Toward Meanings of Home."
For more information, visit http://www.sealpress.com/ .
*****
PLANMYQUINCE.COM SEEKS WRITER
Project Type: ClearPortal is a web portal development company
located in San Francisco, CA. ClearPortal is currently in beta
launch of a Quinceanera website, https://planmyquince.com/ , that
allows young Latina girls the opportunity to plan their Quinceanera
online. ClearPortal develops websites that target Hispanic audiences
and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Position Type: Contract to Perm.
Position Title: Website Content Developer
Compensation: Project based - $2500– $4000 for online content
development of 35-40 pages and print collateral (brochure content)
Requirements: Writing experience targeting youth audiences (Latina
girls aged 13-15). Experience with event planning and/or familiarity
with traditions relating to Quinceaneras/Sweet 15. Experience
writing Sales and Marketing collateral is preferred, but not
required. Ability to read and write Spanish is also preferred, but
not required.
Job Description: Write content for website and print collateral
(brochures) as well as ongoing monthly articles on Latina teen
fashion, beauty, and Quinceanera planning tips. (ongoing articles
compensated at agreed upon market rate)
Location: San Francisco Bay Area. Looking for San Francisco Bay Area
writers, but open to all qualified candidates.
Starting Date: ASAP.
Target Audience: Hispanic girls aged 13-15.

Respond to: content@...
ATTN: Quince Project.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I edit manuscripts, critique proposals and advise on how to launch
and maintain a successful writing career. If you are interested in a
consultation, please visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ , click on
Consultations, and follow the instructions.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
CHANGE E-MAIL ADDRESS/READ BACK ISSUES
To change your e-mail address and/or to read back issues of
Latinidad™ visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, fill out the
Newsletter Survey on http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell
me what doesn't work and why.
*********************************************************************
"The luck of having talent is not enough, one must also have a
talent for luck."
—Hector Berlioz

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad – January 2006: Barnes & Noble and Self-Publishing

Contents:
1. Saludos: B&N and Self-Publishing
2. Q&A: Marcella Ann Smith
3. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
4. Writing Opportunities: Buzz Your Book Online Class
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and
click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
If your New Year's resolution is to finally self-publish your book,
be sure to check out this issue's Q&A with Marcella Ann Smith. Among
her other responsibilities, Marcella determines which self-published
books get picked up by Barnes & Noble. If you assume writing talent
is the most important factor, think again--note that one of the most
common mistakes writers make when submitting their self-published
books to Barnes & Noble is not including a marketing plan. If you
don't have a marketing plan, the Buzz Your Book online class listed
below in Writing Opportunities will help you custom-design one for
your book.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

2. Q&A
Marcella Ann Smith is Director, Small Press and Vendor Relations for
Barnes & Noble, Inc. She got into the business over 35 years ago in
Washington, DC, when she began working in an independent bookshop
there. Since then she has worked in and managed two other
bookstores, been a sales rep for St Martin's Press and a Marketing
Manager at Simon & Schuster. She is a former member of the Board of
Directors of the Publishers Marketing Association, and sits on the
Small Press Center's Advisory Council.

Could you briefly describe your role at B&N?
The department works with new start up publishers, including self
published authors, or publishers who have never done business with
Barnes & Noble, Inc. before to determine the best business
relationship that can be established between the publisher and
Barnes & Noble, Inc.

What percentage of self-published books submitted to the Small Press
and Vendor Relations department get picked up by Barnes & Noble?
About a third.

What are the three most common mistakes made by self-published
authors?
* Unprofessional presentation--poorly edited content; a jacket that
does not reflect the content, a title that tries to do too much,
uncompetitive price.
* Lack of marketing plans--no advance reviews or credible blurbs, no
promotion plans.
* Lack of distribution--no connections with wholesalers or
distributors that service/supply the bookstore and library market.

How important is it for self-published authors to have garnered
media attention and reviews before approaching B&N?
It is very important for the Barnes & Noble category buyers to know
that the author is not relying solely on the shelf space and/or an
event at B&N to generate sales for the title. We need to know that
the author is going to pursue the appropriate media and reviews to
drive the customer to the book whether that is online at Barnes &
Noble.com or in the stores.

Do you recommend POD (print on demand)? Why?
Print on demand technology is a great tool for publishers to use to
keep a slow moving title in print, or for advance reading galleys,
or for books to sell to friends and family, but for titles with a
genuine general trade bookstore sales potential, the POD format is
not recommended. The standard terms are not competitive, and usually
the format is at least $5.00 over the market price in the category.

What books or other resources do you recommend to writers interested
in self-publishing?
Dan Poynter's "The Self-Publishing Manual", John Kremer's "1001 Ways
to Market Your Book", Judith Appelbaum's "How to Get Happily
Published", and last but surely not least, Thomas Woll's "Publishing
for Profit", which I think is essential reading for any author who
is thinking about self-publishing, or for anyone who is thinking
about starting a publishing company, as it lays out the dollars and
cents of the business plan necessary to be profitable.

Who should writers contact if they have questions?
Writers can call or write us anytime. The contact info is: Ellen
FitzSimons (efitzsimons@... or 212-633-3399) or Jim Scaife
(jscaife@... or 212-633-3377).

Submit self-published books to: The Small Press Department, Barnes &
Noble, Inc, 122 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011
For more information visit: http://www.barnesandnobleinc.com/ and
see the For Publishers and For Authors sections
More Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Upcoming Workshops
How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal, 1/10
Sponsored by the Learning Annex, Course 427DNY, Section O

WHAT: Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is weak,
but because the writer failed to provide agents and editors with all
the information they need. This is especially true for fiction
proposals. Topics discussed include: the true purpose of a proposal;
why 90% of proposals are rejected based on the cover letter alone;
and the three most common mistakes writers make when preparing
proposals.

WHEN: Tuesday, 1/10, 6:45 pm - 9:30 pm

WHERE: School for the Physical City, 55 East 25th Street b/w Madison
and Park Ave, New York City, NY

REGISTER: Visit http://www.learningannex.com/ and search for "427DNY"

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

4. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
BUZZ YOUR BOOK ONLINE CLASS
Class: January 9 – February 13
By the end of the class you will have a customized marketing plan
for your book and your book only. Authors from MacAdam Cage,
Ballantine, Penguin and SMP have taken this class, as well as
publicists and editors from Tor, Wylie and Simon & Schuster. M.J.
Rose (http://www.mjrose.com/ ), an international bestselling author,
has been on the Today Show, Fox News, and CNN. To register and for
more information visit
http://writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html .
*****
ANDRES MONTOYA POETRY PRIZE.
Deadline: January 6
For Latino poets who have not had a book professionally published.
Authors of chapbooks and self-published works are eligible. The
winner will receive $1000 and publication at the University of Notre
Dame Press under a standard contract, as well as an invitation from
the Creative Writing Program of the University of Notre Dame to read
from his/her work, along with the judge, upon publication of the
book, with all expenses paid. No entry fee. For guidelines visit
http://www.nd.edu/~latino/poetry_prize/guidelines.htm .
*****
THE ANISFIELD-WOLF BOOK AWARDS
Deadline: January 31
The Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards recognize books that have made
important contributions to our understanding of racism or our
appreciation of the rich diversity of cultures. For more information
http://www.anisfield-wolf.org/ .
*****
BLUE MOUNTAIN CENTER RESIDENCY
Deadline: February 1
The Blue Mountain Center is a working community of writers, artists,
activists and musicians in Blue Mountain Lake, New York in the
Adirondack Mountains. The committee is particularly interested in
fine work which evinces social and ecological concern and is aimed
at a general audience. Residencies are for four weeks and there is
no cost other than transportation. To apply and for more information
visit http://www.bluemountaincenter.org .
*****
MID-LIST PRESS FIRST SERIES AWARD FOR THE NOVEL
Deadline: February 1
An advance of $1000 and publication by Mid-List Press is given
annually for a novel. Writers who have not published a novel are
eligible. To apply and for more information visit
http://www.midlist.org/
*****
VERMONT STUDIO CENTER FELLOWSHIP COMPETITION
Deadline: February 15
Four month-long residencies at the Vermont Studio Center, valued at
$3500 each, are given to poets, fiction writers, and creative
nonfiction writers. Past visiting writers include Martin Espada,
Jonathan Franzen, and Naomi Shihab Nye. To apply and for more
information visit http://vermontstudiocenter.org/ .
*****
BREAD LOAF WRITERS CONFERENCE
Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 1
General Application Deadline: March 20
Date: August 16-27
The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference is one of America's most valuable
literary institutions. The annual conference includes lectures,
craft classes, meetings with editors and agents, readings by faculty
and guests, and workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative
nonfiction. Writers who have attended in the past include Toni
Morrison, Walter Mosley, and Julia Alvarez. For an application and
complete guidelines visit http://www.middlebury.edu/academics/blwc/ .
*****
FIRST NOVEL FELLOWSHIP
Deadline: March 1
A prize of $10,000 will be given annually for a work-in-progress of
fiction. Novels as well as novellas and collections of closely
linked stories are eligible. For guidelines visit
http://www.wilkes.edu/humanities/jones.asp#guide .
*****
LITERAL, LATIN AMERICAN VOICES SHORT STORY CONTEST
Deadline: May 20
First place $500. The competition is open to short stories no longer
than 1600 words written either in English or Spanish. For more
information visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and click on
Writing Opportunities then Contests.
*****
WEGLYN ENDOWED CHAIR IN MULTICULTURAL STUDIES
Cal Poly Pomona announces a faculty recruitment for the Michi and
Walter Weglyn Endowed Chair in Multicultural Studies and invites
applications for a position to begin August 2006. This is a one year
appointment with the possibility of renewal for one to two
additional years. The holder of the Weglyn Chair will promote the
interdisciplinary study of multiculturalism including gender,
ethnicity, sexuality, race, and class. The Chair will establish a
teaching, scholarship/creative activity, and community-based program
in her or his area of expertise. For more information visit
http://www.class.csupomona.edu/Organizations/weglyn/chairPosition.htm
l .
*****
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT
"Rejected by the Publishers" by Lawrence Van Gelder as reported by
the New York Times on 1/4/06,
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/04/books/04publ.html :
Submitted to 20 publishers and agents, the typed manuscripts of the
opening chapters of two books were assumed to be the work of
aspiring novelists. Of 21 replies, all but one were rejections. Sent
by The Sunday Times of London, the manuscripts were the opening
chapters of novels that won Booker Prizes in the 1970's. One
was "Holiday," by Stanley Middleton; the other was "In a Free
State," by Sir V. S. Naipaul, winner of the 2001 Nobel Prize in
Literature. Mr. Middleton said he wasn't surprised. "People don't
seem to know what a good novel is nowadays," he said. Mr. Naipaul
said: "To see something is well written and appetizingly written
takes a lot of talent, and there is not a great deal of that around.
With all the other forms of entertainment today, there are very few
people around who would understand what a good paragraph is."
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I edit manuscripts, critique proposals, and advise on how to launch
and maintain a successful writing career. If you are interested in a
consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm or by visiting
http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and clicking on Consultations.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc. to
marcelalandres@....
*****
CHANGE E-MAIL ADDRESS/READ BACK ISSUES
To change your e-mail address and/or to read back issues of
Latinidad™ visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why.
*********************************************************************

"Life is ten percent as we make it and ninety percent as we take
it."—Irving Berlin

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad™ Newsletter – November/December 2005: Holiday Roundup

Contents:
1. Saludos: How to Support Latino Authors
2. The Latinidad™ List
3. Author Spotlight: Carolina Buia and Isabel Gonzalez
4. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
5. Writing Opportunities: Warner Launches Latino Imprint
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
Despite the interest publishing companies have expressed in Latino
authors recently, the sales of Latino books lag far behind those of
African-American books. Generally speaking, publishing companies
invest more time, energy and resources in African-American books
than Latino books. Why? Because African-American books generally
sell better than Latino books. There's only one way to ensure that
Latino authors get a commensurate level of support: buy Latino
books. Don't buy one copy and share it with friends; don't borrow a
copy from your neighborhood library; don't buy a used copy, as those
sales aren't counted by publishers. The most valuable gift you can
give to Latino authors is to buy their books, not just at this time
of year but year-round.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

2. The Latinidad™ List

I'm delighted to share the best books I read this year; note that
they were not necessarily published in 2005.

1. Spanish-language – Patografia by Angel Lozada
2. Fiction – Let it Rain Coffee by Angie Cruz
3. Current Events – Translation Nation by Hector Tobar
4. Teens – Sammy and Juliana in Hollywood by Benjamin Alire Saenz
5. Kids – Red Ridin' in the Hood: and Other Cuentos by Patricia
Santos Marcantonio
6. Cookbook – Latin Chic: Entertaining with Style and Sass by
Carolina Buia and Isabel Gonzalez
7. Crafts – La Casa Loca: Latino Style Comes Home by Kathy Cano
Murillo
8. Sports – Home is Everything: The Latino Baseball Story by Marcos
Breton
9. Music – Conjunto by John Dyer
10. Manga – Rumble Girls: Silky Warrior Tansie by Lea Hernandez

3. Author Spotlight
If you love to throw parties, or are seeking a unique gift for the
perfect hostess in your life, look no further than Latin Chic:
Entertaining with Style and Sass by Carolina Buia (former staff
reporter for Time magazine and frequent contributor to CNN, MSNBC,
and FOX News) and Isabel Gonzalez (Special Projects Editor at Teen
People who appears regularly on TV including VH1 and MTV). Latin
Chic is a gorgeously illustrated cookbook/entertaining guide, as
well as a celebration of Latino culture. Offering recipes that are
both realistic and romantic—my personal favorites are the Ecuadorian
Shrimp Ceviche, Coquito and Avocado Butter—Latin Chic is destined
for a place either on your coffee-table or as a dog-eared reference
in your kitchen.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
Martha Stewart. Despite her career going off-track there for a
moment, her business acumen and product execution are impressive. I
love the broad reach of her message -- I mean, if she can get a
Cuban girl from Atlanta to buy her magazines and books, who can't
she reach? I also love the whole idea of aspiration -- aspiring to
create, be, live a better life . . . . I find it uplifting and
motivating, so along with Martha you can count Oprah as one my all
time faves.

Why do you love to write?
I've always had a knack for unearthing trends, discovering cool new
places, rejuvenating old traditions and then sharing my knowledge
with friends. Now I get to do it on a wider scale.

How did you meet your agent?
We met Claudia Cross from Sterling Lord through Carolina's
television agent; they both worked together at William Morris back
in the day. Claudia immediately "got" our concept and was so
passionate about the book. We did meet with some other agents just
to make sure we were on the right track, but no one showed the
enthusiasm, savvy, hipness, and intelligence that radiated from
Claudia.

What is your writing ritual?
We usually write on the computer, using Word. And the two of us are
known to write at all hours of the day, whether it was six in the
morning or midnight. We split the writing of the book and then
forwarded each other the work for edits. It was a great system. If
you do decide to work with a co-author, it is very important that
you have similar voices and that even though you split the work, you
look over everything and make sure it represents both your marks.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Make sure that you put an original spin to your idea, that you write
a strong proposal (there are many books out there that will walk you
through what you need to have in it), and that you familiarize
yourself with what else is out there.

Latin Chic web site: http://latinchicstyle.com/
Buy the book:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0060738715/marcelalandre-
20/104-5238277-4088756?%5Fencoding=UTF8&camp=1789&link%5Fcode=xm2
Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

4. Upcoming Workshops

How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal

WHAT: Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is weak,
but because the writer failed to provide agents and editors with all
the information they need. This is especially true for fiction
proposals. Topics discussed include: the true purpose of a proposal;
why 90% of proposals are rejected based on the cover letter alone;
and the three most common mistakes writers make when preparing
proposals.

WHEN: Thursday, 11/10, 6:45 pm - 9:30 pm

WHERE: School for the Physical City, 55 East 25th Street, b/w
Madison and Park Avenue, New York City, NY

REGISTER: Visit http://www.learningannex.com/ and search
for "427DNY".

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

5. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
WARNER LAUNCHES LATINO IMPRINT
Warner Books is proud to announce the launch of Solana, a new
imprint that will publish English-language trade paperback novels
that celebrate Latino life and feature characters of various
Hispanic origins. Solana is looking for English-language women's
fiction that shares the Latino perspective and explores the Latino
experience, from sassy chick lit to tender love stories (a la
Nicholas Sparks) to sexy fiction to something more serious and edgy
(think Lovely Bones). So if you've got a completed novel, please
send a query letter, author bio, and synopsis to Andie Avila, Warner
Books, 1271 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020.
*****
MARKETING FOR AUTHORS ONLINE CLASS
Class: November 7 – December 12
By the end of the class you will have a customized marketing plan
for your book and your book only. Authors from McCadam Cage,
Ballantine, Penguin and SMP have taken this class, as well as
publicists and editors from Tor, Wylie and Simon & Schuster. M.J.
Rose (www.mjrose.com), an international bestselling author, has been
on the Today Show, Fox News, and CNN. To register and for more
information visit
http://writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html
*****
WRITING MULTICULTURAL FICTION: A BOOT CAMP FOR NOVELISTS
Class: November 21-December 12
Part discussion, part workshop, part lecture, this course will take
you from the philosophical (What is offensive?) to the practical
(What are the mechanics of believable interior dialogue ethnic
characters?) to the procedural (What is the market for multicultural
fiction and how do I break into it?) Instructor Anita Doreen Diggs
is the former Senior Editor/Director of One World Books, and is the
author of three novels, The Other Side of the Game, A Mighty Love,
and A Meeting in the Ladies Room. For more information and to
register visit http://www.mediabistro.com/courses/cache/crs1017.asp .
*****
TWENTYSOMETHING WRITERS CONTEST
Deadline: November 24
Did you rush home from school to watch "Thundercats"? Did your mom
miss the original Live Aid concert because she was busy giving birth
to you? Was Dubya's run for office the first time you could vote? If
so, Random House wants your life story, and it's willing to pay for
it: the grand prize is $20,000. Random will publish the best 29
essays in a book titled Twentysomething Essays by Twentysomething
Writers: The Best New Voices of 2006. For more information visit
http://www.randomhouse.com/rhpg/20by20contest/
*****
LATINO FIRST FICTION AWARD
Deadline: December 31
The Miguel Marmol Prize offers an advance of $1000 and publication
by Curbstone Press for a first book of fiction by a Latino writer
that reflects a respect for intercultural understanding, human
rights, and civil liberties. Writers who have not previously
published a book of fiction are eligible. For guidelines and more
information, visit http://www.curbstone.org/
*****
PEN BEYOND MARGINS AWARD
Deadline: December 31
PEN/Beyond Margins Awards invites submissions of book-length
writings by authors of color, published in the United States during
the current calendar year. U.S. residency or citizenship is not
required. Works of fiction, literary nonfiction, biography/memoir
and other works of literary character are strongly preferred. Past
winners include Willie Perdomo, Nelly Rosario and Lolita Hernandez.
For more information visit http://www.pen.org/page.php/prmID/280.
*****
YADDO RESIDENCY
Deadline: January 1
Yaddo offers residencies of up to two months to poets, fiction
writers, and creative nonfiction writers in Saratoga Springs, New
York. Past attendees have included Pulitzer National Book Award
winners; some of the writers who have worked at Yaddo are Julia
Alvarez, Loida Maritza Perez and Paul Auster. Yaddo encourages
artists from all nations and of all backgrounds to apply. To apply
and for more information visit http://www.yaddo.org/ .
*****
RANDOM HOUSE SEEKS BILINGUAL COPYEDITORS/PROOFREADERS
Seeking bilingual (Spanish and English) copyeditors and
proofreaders, African-American proofreaders and copyeditors, and
Latino proofreaders and copyeditors. Prefer freelancers who are
familiar with multicultural titles, slang, and current trends.
Please forward resumes and inquiries to Danielle A. Durkin, The
Random House Publishing Group, 1745 Broadway, md 18-3, New York, NY
10019.
*****
FREE SUBSCRIPTION FOR LATINIDAD MEMBERS
Latinidad readers are being offered a free subscription to the new
literary show AWOL - Authors WithOut Limits, the premiere podcast of
the newest, greatest, and freshest literary talent in the world.
Visit their web site at http://www.bbla.com/ and click on AWOL.
Follow the directions under "How to Subscribe." The show is produced
and hosted by Barbara Bauer, Ph.D., president and founder of the
Barbara Bauer Literary Agency, Inc. For further information, call
(732)566-0446.
*****
C.M. MAYO'S DAILY 5 MINUTE WRITING EXERCISE
It's free, it's fun, and it's every day at http://www.cmmayo.com/ .
Even on the most hectic days, one can grab 5 minutes to write--and
those 5 minutes can be a big help in keeping one's writing fresh and
flowing.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I provide developmental editing for book manuscripts and critiques
for book proposals. In addition, I offer strategic advice on how to
launch and maintain a successful writing career. If you are
interested in a consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm .
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
CHANGE E-MAIL ADDRESS/READ BACK ISSUES
To change your e-mail address and/or to read back issues of
Latinidad™ visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why.
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and
click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
"Saying and doing do not eat at the same table."--Antonio Perez

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

Latinidad™ Newsletter – September/October 2005: Agents

Contents:
1. Saludos: Agents
2. Agent Q&A: Julie Castiglia
3. Author Spotlight: Marta Acosta
4. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
5. Writing Opportunities: Kensington Seeks Latino Writers
*********************************************************************
Please note my web site, http://www.marcelalandres.com/, is
temporarily down, as the servers that support it are located in New
Orleans. It should be back up shortly—thank you in advance for your
patience.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
The number one question I get from Latino writers is "How do I find
an agent?" while the number one question I get from agents is "How
do I find Latino writers?" I created my web site,
http://www.marcelalandres.com/, and the Latinidad™ newsletter to
help these agents and writers connect. As you can see from the
interviews below, writer Marta Acosta found agent Julia Castiglia
via the web site, and they recently landed a two-book deal at a
major publishing house. If you've yet to contact the agents listed
in past newsletters or the web site, I hope this success story
inspires you to dust off and submit your proposal.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

2. Agent Q&A
Julie Castiglia is president of the Castiglia Literary Agency in Del
Mar, Calif., and has placed many significant fiction and nonfiction
titles which have won awards and appeared on the New York Times Most
Notable Books and national bestseller lists. Among the agency's
clients are Tamim Ansary (West of Kabul, East of New York, Farrar
Straus & Giroux), Dean Hamer (The God Gene, Doubleday), and Susan
Mitchell and Catherine Christie, (Fat Is Not Your Fate, Simon &
Schuster).

Which Latino authors have you represented?
We have placed many ethnic novels and non-fiction including: Diane
DaCosta (Textured Tresses), April Sinclair (Coffee Will Make You
Black), Bil Wright (One Foot in Love), Todd Boyd (Young Black Rich &
Famous), Persia Walker (Harlem Redux), Margarita Engle (Singing to
Cuba), and most recently Marta Acosta.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
Ethnic, commercial, literary and women's fiction, offbeat mysteries,
narrative nonfiction, health, science, parenting, biography,
architecture, interior design, current affairs and niche books.

How has http://www.marcelalandres.com/ helped you find Latino
writers?
Marta Acosta found my name on http://www.marcelalandres.com/ and
sent me her manuscript. I loved the book immediately and offered
representation. It took some time but eventually an auction took
place and Marta's first two books ended up at the Pocket division of
Simon & Schuster for a very nice high five figure advance.

Send submissions to: Castiglia Literary Agency, 1155 Camino del mar,
# 510 Del Mar, CA 92014
Web site:
http://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/CastigliaAgency/
More Editor Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Author Spotlight
Marta Acosta received her B.A. in both creative writing and
literature from Stanford University, where she also studied theatre.
Her professional life has been primarily in community and public
relations, including working for theatre companies. She is currently
a freelance writer and lives with her husband and son in the East
Bay. Her first novel will be published by the Pocket division of
Simon & Schuster.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
The saying goes, "Dying is easy, comedy is hard," and I have always
been inspired by comic writers. The best comic writers have both
great technical skill and deep empathy for the human condition, even
as they make us laugh at it. I have a deep and abiding passion for
Shakespeare, Austen, James, Twain and Waugh. I constantly buy John
Kennedy Toole's Confederacy of Dunces and Mario Vargas Llosa's Aunt
Julia and the Scriptwriter to give to friends. I think there are
wonderful comic writers today, including Christopher Moore and the
Tart City writers: Katy Munger, Sparkle Hayter and Lauren Henderson.
I admire Jennifer Weiner's gentle humor in her character-driven
novels.

Why do you love to write?
My family loves to talk and tell stories, and I think my writing
developed from that passion for words. The only time I really love
writing is when I've come up with something utterly ridiculous. I
feel a pure joy then, even if others aren't as amused. My husband
likes to tell me, "You think you're so funny."

How did you meet your agent?
My agent is Julie Castiglia and I found her by searching through the
internet and coming across your website. I'd already checked out the
Association of Authors' Representatives list, but wanted to narrow
down my search to agents who would be interested in a contemporary
comic novel by a Latina. I saw that Julie had a good track record
with her authors, so I wrote to her. She asked to see my manuscript,
liked it and signed me.

What is your writing ritual?
Thanks to Julie getting me a two-book deal, I'm now able to stay
home and write. My typical day starts with walking the dog, then
getting my son to school. Then I drink coffee and read the papers
before I open my computer. I'm a freelance writer, so I spend some
time emailing my editors, conducting interviews, and putting
together articles. If I'm working on my fiction, I don't take any
freelance assignments. I just sit at my computer from early morning
until late at night until my eyes feel as dry as the Mojave.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
My advice to other Latinos wanting to land a book deal is to get
some professional credibility, know how to sell yourself, and don't
let others define your own ethnicity. By professional credibility, I
mean getting published somewhere. A lot more non-fiction than
fiction gets published everyday and there are far more opportunities
with newspapers and magazines than with fiction publications. Prove
that you can work with an editor and deliver on time. If you need a
little guidance, join a group. The National Association of Hispanic
Journalists has great resources and workshops all over the country.

You need to know how to sell yourself to get your manuscript read.
Your query letter has to catch an agent's attention and assure the
agent that you are a serious writer and that your novel is
accomplished. Good agents are swamped with unsolicited manuscripts;
they don't have time for long-winded essays. Have a friend with
experience in publicity help you write a concise, intriguing query
letter and only send it to agents who are interested in novels of
your genre.

Latinos also face the burden of others' preconception of
what "Latino writing" is or should be. We are a remarkably diverse
group and our novels should reflect that diversity. If an agent
presumes to know what your experience as a Latino is or should be,
you might be happier with someone who is willing to accept your
individuality. Novelists Daniel Alarcon and Alberto Fugeut have
written excellent essays on the topic in Salon Magazine.

Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

4. Upcoming Workshops
How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal, 10/6
Sponsored by the Learning Annex, Course 427DNY, Section L

WHAT: Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is weak,
but because the writer failed to provide agents and editors with all
the information they need. This is especially true for fiction
proposals. Topics discussed include: the true purpose of a proposal;
why 90% of proposals are rejected based on the cover letter alone;
and the three most common mistakes writers make when preparing
proposals.

WHEN: Thursday, October 6, 6:45 pm - 9:30 pm

WHERE: School for the Physical City, 55 East 25th Street b/w Madison
and Park Ave, New York City, NY

REGISTER: Visit http://www.learningannex.com/ and search for "427DNY"

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

5. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
KENSINGTON SEEKS LATINO WRITERS
Kensington books is interested in Latin American and Hispanic
fiction, primarily commercial, including, urban, romance,
mystery/suspense, thrillers and erotica. Literary fiction will
eventually be part of the mix, as will non-fiction.  There are no
plans currently for poetry, plays, screenplays or children's books.
We are interested in both novellas (approximately 20,000 words) and
full-length novels.  The writing can be in English or Spanglish.  We
are also looking at novels in translation that meet the above
criteria.  We recommend manuscripts be complete, but partials are
fine.  Previously published, self-published, never been published,
and un-agented writers are all encouraged to submit work.  We prefer
that submissions be snail mailed, with a letter of introduction,
synopsis, and a SASE if you'd like the work returned. Send
submissions to: Sulay Hernandez, Kensington Publishing, 850 Third
Avenue, New York, NY 10022. For more information about Kensington
visit http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/
*****
MARKETING FOR AUTHORS ONLINE CLASS
Class: September 12 – October 17
By the end of the class you will have a customized marketing plan
for your book and your book only. Authors from McAdam Cage,
Ballantine, Penguin and SMP have taken this class, as well as
publicists and editors from Tor, Wylie and Simon & Schuster. M.J.
Rose (http://www.mjrose.com/), an international bestselling author,
has been on the Today Show, Fox News, and CNN. To register and for
more information visit
http://writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html
*****
BOOKS FOR A BETTER LIFE AWARDS
Deadline: September 30
The Books for a Better Life awards recognize and pay tribute to a
category of books that has become a major force in American culture.
Books labeled "self-help," "motivational," "self-improvement"
or "advice" have ridden high on bestseller lists for years, working
their way into the fabric of our everyday being and influencing
countless lives. Books for a Better Life honors these works. This is
an invitation to all publishers and authors to submit entries to the
2005 Books for a Better Life awards. Original titles that fall into
any of the above-named categories, published in the U.S. between
January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2005, are eligible. For entry
guidelines and forms visit
http://nationalmssociety.org/nyn/event/event_detail.asp?e=7623
*****
HEDGEBROOK RESIDENCIES FOR WOMEN
Deadline: October 1
Hedgebrook invests in women who write by providing them with space
and time to create significant work, in solitude and community, and
by developing an international network to connect writers and
audiences. They serve as a safe haven for women authors of all ages,
ethnicities, backgrounds, writing genres, and levels of writing
experience. To apply and for more information visit
http://www.hedgebrook.org/
*****
WASHINGTON SQUARE REVIEW FICTION AND POETRY CONTEST
Deadline: October 31
Washington Square is a non-profit literary journal publishing
fiction, poetry and essays by emerging and established writers. It
is edited, produced, and nationally distributed biannually by the
students of the Graduate Program in Creative Writing. Recent
contributors to the journal include Agha Shahid Ali, Billy Collins,
Mark Doty, Jessica Hagedorn, Donald Hall, Philip Levine, Sharon
Olds, Marie Ponsot, Charles Simic, Chuck Wachtel and Rick Moody. Two
winners (one each in fiction and poetry) will receive $500,
publication in Washington Square, and two contributor's copies.
Selected runners-up will also receive publication and two
contributor's copies. For guidelines visit
http://cwp.fas.nyu.edu/page/wsr
*****
ARABESQUES LITERARY AND CULTURAL REVIEW
Deadline: November 1
Arabesque is a new international annual sponsored by la Société
Arabesque (Algeria), which seeks submissions from emerging and
established writers from all over the world: poems (50-line max),
stories (2000-word max), and reviews of first books of poetry and
essays (1000-word max) for the second issue. Arabesques emphasizes
the deep importance of place in contemporary writing and tries to
promote a new cultural dialogue. Open to all writers in English;
welcomes international submissions (indicate in cover). For
submission guidelines visit http://www.arabesquespress.org
*****
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS WANTED FOR BOOK ON EX-HUSBANDS
Deadline: March 1, 2006.
Editor seeks entries for a book of real stories from real ex-wives
about events that have taken place with their ex-husbands. For those
stories that are accepted, the editor will pay up to $200 for
stories of 1,000 - 2,000 words and $50 for short anecdotes (250-500
words) along with a free copy of the published book. Stories should
be real occurrences that reflect the real world and can be angry,
funny, tragic, sad, sexual, weird, shocking, sweet and even
romantic! They should not be boring essays or manifestos about the
divorce rate in our country but rather real accounts of real people.
I'm looking for submissions from "regular ex-wives" as well as
professional writers. Some examples: One woman wrote about having
great sex one night with a man she divorced 8 years ago and the
interesting twist here is that their divorce happened because the
marriage was no longer working sexually. Someone else sent a story
about going on a blind date and the man turned out to be her ex-
husband. A third person wrote about the blinding anger she feels
every time she runs into her ex-husband and his new wife (the happy
couple lives right across the street from her!). A fourth woman
remarried but wrote about how she is having an affair with her ex-
husband behind her new husband's back. And the fifth? It is so
shocking that I'm just plain speechless. Submissions can be sent
electronically to editor Anita Diggs via e-mail: anitadiggs@...
*****
http://www.universityforwriters.com/
The University for Writers (UFW) is an email only writers' school.
It is an effective way for your e-instructor to tap you on your e-
shoulder and say, "Wake up! You've got writing to do." It is easy to
get lost in your daily routine and not log onto a website. But most
people check their email daily. There is no escaping your duty to be
true to your craft.  They now include courses for writers who want
to delve into bilingual Spanish/English fiction and non-fiction.
Join them as they assist you in taking your writing career to the
next level.
*****
PALABRA--A MAGAZINE OF CHICANO/LATINO LITERARY ART
Chicano/Latino literary magazine invites submissions of fiction,
poetry, creative nonfiction and short plays that explore new
territory in Chicano/Latino literary art. Fiction & creative
nonfiction up to 3500 words, poetry up to 3 poems with a max of 50
lines each, plays up to 10 pages. Sorry, no genre work. Unpublished
work only. Include name, address, phone number and e-mail on each
submission. Simultaneous submissions OK with prompt notification of
acceptance elsewhere. No multiple submissions. Response time 2 - 3
months. Snail mail submissions only. Submissions accepted year-
round. Include SASE for response only. Manuscripts not accepted for
publication will be shredded and recycled. Palabra acquires first
worldwide serial rights, nonexclusive electronic rights and
nonexclusive anthology rights. Some pay. Copyright reverts to author
upon publication. Submit via USPS only to Palabra, P. O. Box 86146,
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0146. Inquiries only at
palabralit@...
*****
LORRAINE AND JAMES SEEKS STORIES
Lorraine and James, the journal of global urban literature, is
looking for original, unpublished stories for its winter 2006 issue.
We are seeking contemporary literature (3,000-10,000 words) that is
both well written and engaging. An honorarium of $50 -$200 will be
paid for all published submissions. At this time we are accepting
short fiction, creative non-fiction and poetry. No children's
stories or novel excerpts unless self-contained. Multiple and
simultaneous submissions okay. First rights are required. Further
submissions details can be found at http://www.lorraineandjames.com/
*****
FREE BOOK MARKETING ADVICE
Now authors with books to promote may ask questions of nearly 150
author experts whose specialties run the gamut from romance to foot
surgery. Assembled from the thousands of subscribers to Book
Promotion Newsletter, the experts include authors, editors, book
reviewers, book coaches, ghostwriters, publicists and publishers.
This free service is hosted by Maureen McMahon at
http://www.maureenmcmahon.com, author of romantic suspense novels,
Return of the Gulls, Shadows in the Mists and others, and Francine
Silverman, author of Book Marketing from A-Z (Infinity Publishing
2005), a compilation of the best marketing strategies of 325
authors. For more information visit http://www.maureenmcmahon.com
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I provide developmental editing for book manuscripts and critiques
for book proposals. In addition, I offer strategic advice on how to
launch and maintain a successful writing career. If you are
interested in a consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm or send an e-mail to
marcelalandres@....
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
CHANGE E-MAIL ADDRESS/READ BACK ISSUES
To change your e-mail address and/or to read back issues of
Latinidad™ visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why.
*********************************************************************
"What is written without effort is read without pleasure."
--Samuel Johnson

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad™ Newsletter – July/August 2005: New Age

Contents:
1. Saludos: New Age
2. Editor Q&A: Ximena Ortiz, Llewellyn
3. Author Spotlight: Migene Gonzalez-Wippler
4. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
5. Writing Opportunities: Warner Seeks Latino-Oriented Fiction
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
As evidenced by the perennial popularity of botanicas, Latinos have
traditionally been fans of all things New Age. In fact, a survey
conducted by New Age Retailer magazine reveals that 23.4% of New Age
store customers are Latino, a striking number given that Latinos
make up less than 14% of the total U.S. population. According to a
Publishers Weekly article, New Age publisher Llewellyn started
publishing Spanish-language titles in 1994, and over ten years later
it publishes 16 Spanish-language titles annually and devotes 24
pages of its 144-page catalogue to its Spanish-language
publications. While Latinos are well represented as readers,
there's room for improvement for authorship in this category.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Editor Q&A
Ximena Ortiz is the Spanish Acquisitions Editor for Llewellyn
Worldwide. She began her career as a reporter for a local TV station
in Chile and continued as a print journalist, columnist and editor
for newspapers, magazines and corporate publications. After coming
to the U.S., she gradually transitioned from writing for Chilean
publications, including the new age magazine Mundo Nuevo, to
freelance journalism for several Hispanic newspapers.

Why is Llewellyn a great home for Latino writers?
We are one of the few publishing companies that work directly with
authors. We don't require authors to be represented by an agent
to publish their books. One of Llewellyn's company goals is to
help
authors get their start in the market, and then assist them in
building their career and reputation.  Of course, we love working
with agents as well; we're just an especially good place for
first time authors.

Which Latino authors has Llewellyn published?
Some of our most successful Latino authors according to sales and
awards would be Migene Gonzales-Wippler, Mabel Iam and Luz Stella
Rozo.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
Llewellyn specializes in new age themes, and we prefer
"how-to" books. We are looking to help our readers to grow
spiritually and to assist them in practicing a wide range of new age
disciplines. Self-help books are always welcome.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your
"Pursue" pile?
Some of the manuscripts that we reject most quickly are those about
the author's own mystical experiences. Some people think that the
story of their lives is going to help others in their spiritual
growth, but as a company, we don't publish biographies –
particularly when the subject is someone you've never heard of!

We also frequently receive manuscripts from people who believe that
God or some other divine entity is speaking through them.  Even if
you have come to know the true meaning of life, you'll still
probably not be published by Llewellyn Worldwide.

The books most often pursued by Llewellyn focus on a specific theme
that's of interest to new age readers (dreams, shamanism, yoga,
angels, tarot, astrology, etc.).  In developing that theme, writers
should have an understanding of the history of the discipline and
real, practical knowledge that the reader can benefit from.  You
have to have a clear picture of how the reader will benefit from
reading your book, and then deliver.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become successfully published?
Think as a reader.  A reader is going to pick up your book off a
shelf and, in just a minute or two, he or she will decide whether to
buy it or not.  Understanding that, would you ever start a book with
dull background?  No!  Start with the most attractive part of your
book, a catchy story that is going to hook your reader and convince
them to buy.  You can always backtrack later if you must present
less captivating material.

Send submissions to: Ximena Ortiz, Spanish Acquisitions Editor,
Llewellyn Worldwide, P.O. Box 64383, 2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury,
MN 55125-2989, ximena@...
Llewellyn web site: http://www.llewellyn.com/
More Editor Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Author Spotlight
Migene Gonzalez-Wippler is a cultural anthropologist and has worked
as a science editor for the American Museum of Natural History, The
American Institute of Physics, and the United Nations in Vienna. She
has written over 20 books about religion and mysticism, the latest
being Keys to the Kingdom: Jesus & The Mystic Kabbalah, which
reveals the interrelationship between kabbalah and Christianity. For
instance, Spain was the birthplace of the first kabbalists, as well
as many noted Jewish mystics and theologians; the body of Jesus's
teachings is essentially kabbalistic; and the structure of the
Lord's Prayer uncannily reflects that of the Tree of Life, a
central kabbalah concept. Devout and skeptical readers alike will
find much food for thought in Gonzalez-Wippler's clear-eyed yet
sensitive analysis.

Which author or book inspires you and why?
I read a lot and I have many favorite authors. Charles Dickens and
Jane Austen are among the ones I admire the most. A modern author I
especially like is J.K. Rowling, the creator of the Harry Potter
saga. I enjoy her work immensely and one of the reasons I like her
so much is that she makes herself available to her readers. Also
that she believed so strongly in her vision that she worked on the
first book under the most difficult circumstances. That
determination is what makes a writer successful.

Why do you love to write?
I don't love to write. Writing is one of the most agonizing
experiences a human being can have. It's like giving birth. I write
because I must. It is a compulsion, a driving need. I'm only at
peace when I am writing. And like Dorothy Parker, I love having
written.

How did you meet your agent?
I don't have an agent. My first publisher liked my work so much that
when he sold his company to Random House he continued to help me
publish my work. I was very lucky there. Then Llewellyn became
interested and they have published many of my books quite
successfully.

What is your writing ritual?
I write late at night on a computer. Never when inspiration strikes
but as a disciplinary measure. Inspiration can be very fickle. But
it will come once you start writing in earnest.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
First, you must learn to be your most severe critic. You cannot
indulge yourself and you cannot blind yourself to your mistakes and
your shortcomings. If you are a good writer, you will know when
something you have written is not good. The trick is having the
courage to admit it. Prose is like music. It must be perfectly
balanced. And your grammar must be impeccable. A writer with bad
grammar or poor spelling has no business writing books. No one -
especially agents and editors - will forgive you for that. If you
feel something you have written is not good enough, erase it, even
if it breaks your heart. You'll be glad you did. And second, you
must believe in yourself and in your work. Once you believe in
yourself you will have every chance of success. I submitted my first
book - Santeria: African Magic in Latin America - to 22 publishers
and they all turned me down. Then the 23rd publisher - the one who
later became my greatest fan - decided to publish me - in hard
cover. Later he sold the paper book rights to the first publisher I
approached and who had turned me down: Doubleday. Doubleday ended up
paying more for the paperback rights than they would have paid for
the hard cover. So you see it pays to believe in your work, to be
determined and to look tirelessly for the one person who will share
your beliefs.

Obtain the English edition of Keys to the Kingdom:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0738705934/marcelalandre-
20/102-8544038-2383304?%5Fencoding=UTF8&camp=1789&link%5Fcode=xm2
Obtain the Spanish edition of Keys to the Kingdom:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0738706485/marcelalandre-
20/102-8544038-2383304?%5Fencoding=UTF8&camp=1789&link%5Fcode=xm2
Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

4. Upcoming Workshops
WHAT: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is weak, but
because the writer failed to provide agents and editors with all the
information they need. This is especially true for fiction
proposals. Topics to be discussed in this seminar will include: the
true purpose of a proposal; why 90% of proposals are rejected based
on the cover letter alone; and the three most common mistakes
writers make when preparing proposals. Back by popular demand,
Editorial Consultant Marcela Landres will provide insight as to how
authors can navigate the often confusing and difficult world of
publishing. This seminar will conclude with a Q&A session based on
students' concerns.

WHEN: 9am-noon, July 10

WHERE: Gemini Ink, 513 S. Presa, San Antonio, TX

REGISTER: Visit http://www.geminiink.org

QUESTIONS?: Contact Xelena Gonzalez at uww@... or
877.734.WORD (9673).

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

5. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
WARNER BOOKS SEEKS LATINO ORIENTED FICTION
Warner Books is looking for English language women's fiction that
shares the Latino perspective and explores the Latino experience,
from sassy chick lit to tender love stories (a la Nicholas Sparks)
to sexy fiction to something more serious and literary (think Lovely
Bones). So if you've got a completed novel, please send a query
letter, author bio, and synopsis to Andie Avila, Warner Books, 1271
Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020. We look forward to
hearing from you!
*****
PARA MI MAGAZINE
Deadline: July 5
Creative non-fiction articles, narrative essays and narrative prose
wanted for para mi Magazine's Summer 2005 issue. The theme of
this issue is Freedom.  This issue will examine the basic freedoms
guaranteed in the U.S. constitution set against the profiles of
Latin American migrants who have come to the U.S. in search of
them.  Feature articles should be profiles and/or interviews with
people who have fled persecution or oppression of their basic
freedoms in their native countries. For guidelines and more
information visit http://www.para-mi.com.
*****
MARKETING FOR AUTHORS
Class Start Date: July 11
Buzz Your Book, M.J. Rose's online, one-on-one, marketing class is
back due to popular demand. Next class starts July 11th - Aug 15th.
(with additional materials by Doug Clegg) Sign up soon, class size
is limited. www.writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html
*****
YADDO RESIDENCY
Deadline: August 1
Yaddo offers residencies of up to two months to poets, fiction
writers, and creative nonfiction writers in Saratoga Springs, New
York. Past attendees have included Pulitzer National Book Award
winners; some of the writers who have worked at Yaddo are Julia
Alvarez, Loida Maritza Perez and Paul Auster. Yaddo encourages
artists from all nations and of all backgrounds to apply. To apply
and for more information visit http://www.yaddo.org/.
*****
CHILDREN'S BOOK WRITERS CONFERENCE
Date: August 5-8
The Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators offers two
conferences a year, covering subjects from poetry to plot structure,
marketing to time management, revisions to royalties. In addition to
highlighting traditional genres of children's books, there will be a
focus on the rapidly developing field of teen literature. The
conference continues to expand its program for illustrators as well,
with a heavy emphasis on the craft and technique of picture book
illustration. To register and for more information, visit
http://www.scbwi.org/events.htm.
*****
PEN EMERGING VOICES ROSENTHAL FELLOWSHIPS
Deadline: September 9
Six to ten fellowships of $1000 each are given annually to poets,
fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers from minority,
immigrant, or underserved communities. To apply and for more
information visit www.penusa.org.
*****
MACDOWELL COLONY
Deadline: September 15
MacDowell Colony offers residencies of up to two months to poets,
fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers in Peterborough,
New Hampshire. Past attendees have included Pulitzer, National Book
Award, and Rome Prize winners; some of the writers who have worked
at the Colony are Oscar Hijuelos, Michael Chabon, Angie Cruz, and
Alice Walker. For an application and more information visit
www.macdowellcolony.org.
****
BILL COSBY SCREEN AND TELEVISION WRITING PROGRAM
Deadline: September 15
Established by Drs. Bill and Camille Cosby at the USC School of
Cinema-Television, the Guy A. Hanks & Marvin Miller Screenwriting
Program non USC program has single-handedly brought more successful
American-American Writers into the entertainment industry than any
other program of its type. It is designed to assist writers in
completing a television or feature script, while examining the
African-American perspective in their storytelling.  Although the
program was founded to enhance the works of African-Americans, this
is not a prerequisite to apply to the program. Participation is free
to those selected. For more information and to obtain an
applications visit http://www.CosbyProgram.com.
*****
SEEKING LATINO TV WRITERS
A leading teen digital cable network is looking for Latino writers
to pitch their ideas for a live action series. Think FUNNY FUNNY
FUNNY but with an edge. It can be as real as possible, after all
it's cable! They are adamantly seeking writers for story ideas
and comedic writers are especially encouraged to come forward.
Ideally, they would want someone who could write the story and/or
lead the production. It does not need to be Latino-themed content,
but it must be appropriate for high school viewers. They are looking
now! This is a good chance to put your creative foot forward. All
levels of experience are welcome, experienced writers especially. If
you or anyone you know is interested please contact Maribel La Luz,
mlaluz@....
*****
WANTED: CHICANO AND LATINO WRITERS
Seeking Urban Fiction with Chicano or Latino main characters written
in English or Spanglish. Dramas, comedies, erotica, action,
gay/lesbian, science fiction, true life stories and graphic novels,
etc. are all welcome if they have an urban Chicano or Latino theme.
Emotional roller coasters are a major plus. However, short stories,
and poetry are not welcome. For submission guidelines and more
information visit http://www.urbanopublishing.com/ or
http://www.JeffRivera.com.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I provide developmental editing for book manuscripts and critiques
for book proposals. In addition, I offer strategic advice on how to
launch and maintain a successful writing career. If you are
interested in a consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm or by visiting
www.marcelalandres.com and clicking on Consultations.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to ww
w.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't
work
and why.
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on
Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
"The Word will always come first, and if it is a poetic word, so
much the better."
--Efrain Huerta

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

Latinidad™ Newsletter – May/June 2005: Christian

Contents:
1. Saludos: Christian
2. Editor Q&A: Denise Stinson, Walk Worthy Press
3. Author Spotlight: Xenia Ruiz
4. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Book Proposal/Private
Appointments
5. Writing Opportunities: Christy Awards
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
Christian books are phenomenally popular. In fact, Book Industry
Trends 2005 predicts that over the next five years total book-
industry revenues will increase 18.3%, paced by religious books with
a 50% rise. Consequently, agents and editors are keen to work with
authors who will appeal to the Christian market, which is becoming
increasingly Latino: nearly 20% of Latinos nationwide have converted
to evangelical Christianity within the last decade. If you are a
Latino Christian, now is arguably the best time to launch a writing
career.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Editor Q&A
Denise Stinson is the Publisher and founder of Walk Worthy Press and
an Editor at Large at Warner Books. A journalist for nearly 15
years, she was a staff writer at several major newspapers and Life
Magazine before turning her attention to book publishing and
entrepreneurship in 1991 when she began Stinson Literary Agency. Her
literary agent client list included books by J. California Cooper,
Nathan McCall, Joan Brady, Queen Latifah, Pearl Cleage, CeCe Winans
and T.D. Jakes.

Why is Walk Worthy Press a great home for Latino writers?
Historically, many publishers have been and still are very
shortsighted in their marketing of books by Latino and African
American writers. Too often there has been the belief that if a
Latino writes a book the only people interested in reading it will
be other Latinos. One of the things that is really key for an author
is that they find a home for their work that is equipped to not only
maximize their natural audience but it also able to move them into
markets that might not initially be that obvious. Walk Worthy Press
is a good home for Latinos because we are able to expose their work
to a lot of readers who might normally never hear of them because
they are Latino.

Which Latino authors has Walk Worthy Press published?
The wonderful Xenia Ruiz!

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
Because we are a Christian publisher we are looking for manuscripts
that have a Christian theme. We publish across a number of genres
but we are particularly interested in commercial women's fiction.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your
"Pursue"
pile?
A strong introductory letter always catches my attention. I am
always impressed by an author who writes about their passion for
writing. If you are a first time author and writing fiction I really
like to see the entire manuscript right off the bat. I find that
many writers have a really hard time pulling together a good query
letter and synopsis. This can hurt them if that is all an editor has
by which to judge the work.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Discipline themselves to write everyday. I hear from writers
constantly complaining that they can never find time to write. Well,
they never will. Writing is a discipline and writers must make a
decision that they are going to do it everyday. It doesn't matter
if
it is only for 30 minutes the important thing is that they are
consistent. Recently I heard a preacher say: "You do not
determine
your future. You determine your habits and your habits determine
your future." That is especially true for writers.

Send submissions to: Manuscript Coordinator, Walk Worthy Press,
33290 West 14 Mile Road, #482, West Bloomfield, Michigan 48322. For
submission guidelines visit www.walkworthypress.net.
More Editor Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Author Spotlight
Xenia Ruíz's debut novel, Choose Me, will be released on June
20,
2005 by Walk Worthy Press, an imprint of Warner Books. She is the
first Latina author signed by Walk Worthy, and she sets a strong
example for future writers to follow. Quietly powerful, Choose Me
gets under your skin and won't let go. Eva Clemente is a divorced
mother of two sons who has been celibate for five years and is wary
of men and marriage. Adam Black is a poet and cancer survivor who is
finally ready for a relationship with a worthy woman. At first
glance Choose Me may seem like straightforward Christian chicklit,
but the complexity of the characters takes it to a higher level. Eva
is particularly refreshing as the first strong female character in
recent memory whose identity is self-defined and is believably happy
alone.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
So many books have inspired me, I can't pick just one. They
include:
Yo! by Julia Alvarez, Sister by A. Manette Ansay, Durable Goods by
Elizabeth Berg, Come to Me by Amy Bloom, A House on Mango Street by
Sandra Cisneros, Raising Fences: A Black Man's Love Story by
Michael
Datcher, The Red Moon by Kuwana Haulsey, Walking the Line by Althea
Christina Hughes, The Color of Water by James McBride, Meeting of
the Waters by Kim McLarin, Black & Blue by Ann Quinlan, Caucasia by
Danzy Senna, and The Color Purple by Alice Walker. The sensory
details, imagery and language in all of these authors' works
inspire
me to write better.

Why do you love to write?
I write because for so many years I was silent. I write because it
is difficult for me to speak everything that is on my mind. I write
because it is less expensive than therapy. I write because the
stories I want to tell have been missing from contemporary fiction.
I write because I want to inspire other aspiring Latina/o writers to
succeed. I write because I now understand that it is my passion and
to ignore it would be to deny an essential necessity, like air,
water and food.

How did you meet your agent?
I didn't have an agent with this book. I had one with my first book,
which I wrote in 1997, but it was rejected by several publishers. In
October 2003, I submitted the manuscript for Choose Me directly to
Walk Worthy Press and the publisher turned out to be my former
agent. Some people call it coincidence, I call it fate. I believe I
was inspired by God to write this book. The fact that some people
have a problem with this rationale inspires me even more. Rather
than say I was lucky, I prefer to say I was blessed.

What is your writing ritual?
I am definitely not one of those writers who gets up at a specific
time every day and writes, but I do feel guilty and useless if I
don't write at least once a week. Mornings for me begin at noon.
Sometimes an idea or scene hits me while I'm watching TV,
driving,
or trying to go to sleep. I hardly ever outline and rarely does the
synopsis get done first. For example, my second novel is done, but
now I'm working on the synopsis. Sometimes I even cut out
pictures
of people from magazines to bring my characters to life. It's a
little embarrassing to admit but I even daydream about scenes when
I'm lying in bed and even whisper the dialogue. Then I'd have to
get
up and write it down before I forget; now I keep one of those black-
and-white composition notebooks titled "Bedside Notes" next to my
bed. Mostly I write on the computer, but when an idea hits me (in
the car or in bed), I write in longhand.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
I would extend the advice which Gwendolyn Brooks once gave me. I met
her at a reading and asked for her address which she gave me without
hesitation. I sent her some of my work and she critiqued it. I was
touched that someone like her would take the time to write me back.
Her advice was simple: "Never, never surrender!" And I'll
expand on
that by saying, if you truly believe you are a writer and you really
want to write and get published, keep working at it, dedicate all
your free time to writing that book (or books), never let anyone
deter you, and never sit idle. Try to write every day and if you
can't, at least a couple of times a week. Always write down
ideas,
scenes, etc. as soon as you get them, otherwise, you might forget
them. Don't get too discouraged by rejections; sometimes it's
God's
way of telling you something better is coming. Try to learn as much
as possible about the publishing industry because the reality and
the fantasy are two very different things.

If you can't get a publisher, try self-publishing. A lot of
writers,
including E. Lynn Harris and Karen Quiñones Miller started out
this
way. When I sent off Choose Me, I took steps to self-publish my
first book which had been rejected, just to see which would be more
successful. Before I could send out the second novel to an
independent printer, Denise Stinson, the publisher at Walk Worthy
Press, called me with a two-book deal. And when you do get
published, don't forget where you came from: give back to
aspiring
writers. My dream is to see the crop of Latino writers grow to the
magnitude that the African American market has flourished in the
last decade.

Obtain Choose Me:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0446576700/marcelalandre-
20/002-3519877-3689640?%5Fencoding=UTF8&camp=1789&link%5Fcode=xm2
Visit author's web site: http://www.laequis.bravehost.com
Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

4. Upcoming Workshops
WHAT: Two events on one day:

Event #1: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is weak, but
because the writer failed to provide agents and editors with all the
information they need. This is especially true for fiction
proposals. Topics to be discussed in this seminar will include: the
true purpose of a proposal; why 90% of proposals are rejected based
on the cover letter alone; and the three most common mistakes
writers make when preparing proposals. Back by popular demand,
Editorial Consultant Marcela Landres will provide insight as to how
authors can navigate the often confusing and difficult world of
publishing. This seminar will conclude with a Q&A session based on
students' concerns.

Event #2: Private Appointments with Editorial Consultant Marcela
Landres
The first twenty writers to send a manuscript by Monday, June 27
will each receive a 20-minute private consultation with Editorial
Consultant Marcela Landres. Ms. Landres will offer suggestions and
advice for each writer. Only the first twenty applicants will be
notified; other manuscripts will not be returned. If a person sends
a manuscript and is not contacted, then s/he can assume her/his
manuscript was not one of the first twenty.
Required Manuscript: By Monday, June 27 submit to Gemini Ink a
writing sample of up to 10 double-spaced pages of prose.

WHEN: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal - 9am-noon, July 10
               Private Appointments - 1 to 8 pm, July 10

WHERE Gemini Ink, 513 S. Presa, San Antonio, TX

REGISTER: Visit http://www.geminiink.org/

QUESTIONS?: Contact Xelena Gonzalez at uww@... or
877.734.WORD (9673)

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

5. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
CHRISTY AWARDS
Deadline: December 2005
The Christy Awards are presented annually within a half-a-dozen
categories to recognize and promote Christian fiction of exceptional
quality and impact. Self-published books are eligible. For more
information visit http://www.christyawards.com.
*****
SEEKING FEATURE/LIFESTYLE WRITER IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Upmarket lifestyle mag visiting Dominican Republic late-July seeks
creative feature/lifestyle writer based in/near Santo Domingo to
join crew on weeklong tour/shoot. Writer to produce 4 to 5 articles
on home decor/architecture, destination, cuisine and an artist
profile. Pay is in US$ upon publication submission. Mag is quarterly
glossy printed in Canada, available at Borders and throughout
Caribbean. For further specifics send inquiry to
contactcoty@....
*****
GIVAL PRESS NOVEL AWARD
Deadline: May 30
Given to the author of the best novel of high literary quality.
Prize is $3000 and publication by Gival Press. For guidelines and
more information, visit http://www.givalpress.com.
*****
CHICANO/LATINO POETRY PRIZE
Deadline: June 1
The Department of Spanish and Portuguese at the University of
California, Irvine invites submissions of unpublished poetry
collections in Spanish or English. For more information, visit
http://www.hnet.uci.edu/spanishandportuguese/contest.html.
*****
AMERICAN INDIAN ANTHOLOGY SEEKS LATIN AMERICAN WRITERS
Deadline: Mid-June
Eating Fire, Tasting Blood: Breaking the Great Silence of the
American Indian Holocaust is an anthology of essays by American
Indians to be published by Thunder's Mouth Press. Seeking
submissions by South and Central American writers. Submit a short
bio and a rough draft of a synopsis for essay by mid-June, and a
finished draft by the end of July. You may change your essay as you
write, but the synopsis will let the editor know where you are
heading. Essays should be rigorously factual: an homage, a
documentation, a historical chronicle, but also a reminder that the
extinction is not complete, and there are vigorous and recuperating
remnants of these ancient communities still present. Incorporate
personal stories, interviews with elders, family members, etc. Feel
free to be as blunt as possible. Cover your nation unless you have
been asked to do otherwise. 2000-4000 words, add footnotes only if
necessary. Please send all correspondence to Editor MariJo Moore at
marijom@... in word format. Payment will be two copies of
published anthology.
*****
$10,000 PRIZE FOR SPANISH NOVEL
Deadline: June 30
A prize of $10,000, publication in English by Curbstone Press, and
travel expenses to the award ceremony at the Guadalajara
International Book Fair in Mexico is given annually to a woman
writer for a novel published in Spanish after 2003. For more
information, visit www.fil.com.mx.
*****
AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL
Festival Date: October 20-23
The Austin Film Festival is dedicated to furthering the art, craft
and business of writers and filmmakers and recognizing their
contributions to film, television and new media. The AFF champions
the work of aspiring and established writers and filmmakers by
providing unique cultural events and services, enhancing public
awareness and participation and encouraging dynamic and long-lasting
community partnerships. Panelists include: Judd Apatow, Howard
Gordon, Paul Haggis, Terry George, Jessica Bendinger, Frank Pierson,
Robin Swicord and Ted Tally. Register online at
www.austinfilmfestival.com or call 800-310-3378 and ask for
Conference Director Maya Perez.
*****
LATINO ONLINE BOOKSTORE SURVEY
Lidia Bonilla is starting an online bookstore for Latino readers,
primarily showcasing books written by Latino and Caribbean authors.
But a good book is a good book so she will also feature authors of
other backgrounds. Mangobooks.net will offer interviews with your
favorite authors, useful articles, and books of various genres. At
this present time, there is no centralized place, online or
otherwise, where a reader can obtain accurate and up to date
information about their favorite Caribbean and Latin American
authors. Due to small marketing budgets provided these writers, most
people do not know about them. The result is both the reader and
writer end up feeling abandoned and pushed aside by publishers and
bookstores alike. The purpose of the survey below is to get to know
you as a reader and a person, finding out what you love and dislike
about buying books. To take the survey for Mangobooks.net click here
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=953041044594 or cut and paste
the URL onto your browser. For more information contact: Lidia
Bonilla, 347-683-2914, lidiabonilla@....
*****
LATINO CHILDREN'S BOOK WRITERS GROUP
A new online writer's group with a focus on Latino children's
writing and children's writers and markets is available. Here is the
name and location:
Latino-Hispanicwriters4Kids
Group home page: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Latino-
Hispanicwriters4Kids
Group email address: Latino-Hispanicwriters4Kids@yahoogroups.com
The emphasis of the group is for Latino children's writers with an
interest in Latino stories, culture, and creating stories for
children that reflect the unique Latino life, culture, and
viewpoint. Come discuss your successes, frustrations, questions,
markets, ideas, and any tips you may want to share about writing for
this field. It is best if those who join know Spanish in order to be
able to communicate both in English and Spanish. Latinos and non-
Latinos are welcome to join.
*****
GOUCHER COLLEGE MFA IN CREATIVE NONFICTION WRITING
Study the personal essay, memoir, literary journalism, and narrative
in Goucher's limited-residency Master of Fine Arts Program in
Creative Nonfiction.  The program allows students to complete most
of the requirements off campus while developing their skills as
nonfiction writers under the close supervision of well-known writers
and teachers.  What distinguishes Goucher's MFA from other
graduate
creative writing programs, including those that take advantage of
the limited-residency format, is its exclusive focus on creative
nonfiction and its strong professional emphasis on writing and
publishing.  For more information, visit www.goucher.edu/mfa.
*****
"SOLO PARA ADULTOS" WITH DR. ANA NOGALES
Dr. Ana Nogales, a practicing psychologist and the author of "Dr.
Nogales Book of Love, Sex and Relationships" and "Latina
Power",
launches a new television show on Univision in May 2005. The
audience will have the opportunity to receive professional
psychological advice on a wide variety of adult topics, most of them
taboo for the Hispanic community, where no subject is off-limits.
The show, Solo para adultos, airs Wednesdays through Fridays at
11:00 p.m. For more information visit soloparaadultos@...
or www.doctoranogales.com.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I provide developmental editing for book manuscripts and critiques
for book proposals. In addition, I offer strategic advice on how to
launch and maintain a successful writing career. If you are
interested in a consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm or by visiting
www.marcelalandres.com and clicking on Consultations.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to ww
w.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't
work
and why.
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on
Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
"You may sell your work, but not your soul."—John Ruskin

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

Latinidad™ Newsletter – March/April 2005: Poetry

Contents:
1. Saludos: Poetry
2. Editor Q&A: Bryce Milligan, Wings Press
3. Author Spotlight: E.A. "Tony" Mares
4. Upcoming Workshops: How to Pitch Your Book Idea/What Editors
Really Want
5. Writing Opportunities: True Poet Magazine Seeks Poems
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
April is Poetry Month. While there are numerous journals that
publish individual poems, it can be challenging to publish a book-
length collection of poems. Thankfully, there are a number of small
publishers that are dedicated to supporting poets. Wings Press,
which is featured below, is one example. When seeking a publisher
for your collection of poems, focus on smaller or regional
publishers instead of large publishers.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Editor Q&A
Bryce Milligan is the Publisher/Editor of Wings Press, one of the
oldest continually operating small presses in Texas. Wings Press
publishes up to 15 titles a year, including a wide array of
multicultural poetry, fiction, anthologies, and scholarship.
Milligan is also the primary editor of the anthologies Daughters of
the Fifth Sun: A Collection of Latina Fiction and Poetry and of
¡Floricanto Sí! A Collection of Latina Poetry.

Why is Wing Press a great home for Latino writers?
The Dallas Morning News a couple of years ago said that, "at
Wings, 'diversity' is about the preservation and propagation of
distinctive literature." That really is true. I certainly don't
limit the focus of the press to Latina/o writing – but I have always
found Latino/a literature to be distinctive. I do have to say that
for the most part, my heart belongs to Chicano/a literature, at
least in terms of what I publish. Even though I edited a couple of
the first "all-Latina" anthologies to come from NY houses –
Daughters of the Fifth Sun (Putnam/Riverhead) and ¡Floricanto Si: A
Collection of Latina Poetry (Penguin) – I've never been comfortable
with the implicit melting pot ideology of the term Latino or Latina.
But back to the question at hand. Ramón Renteria, the book editor of
the El Paso Times, said last year: "Without publishers like Wings,
Latino and Chicano literature would remain in a deep well in
America." I think what he was getting at was that presses like
Wings, and Bobby Byrd's Cinco Puntos Press, and others celebrate
this literature for what it is and on an equal footing with all our
other titles. I have great admiration for most of the old Chicano
and Latino presses, but in the mainstream mind there is a too often
a perception of ghetto-ization when they see a book from a press
that is limited to one ethnicity or even one gender. If a title is
on the Wings list, then readers know that it is there because of the
quality of the writing, the breadth of the imagination, and the
intellect. I try to the best of my abilities to publish only books
that have those qualities, no matter who the author is. That being
said, I must admit that I've never published a Republican to my
knowledge.

Which Latino authors has Wings Press published?
It is a long list, actually. Some of our more well known authors
are – alphabetically --  Marjorie Agosín, Ana Castillo, Lorna Dee
Cervantes, María Espinosa, the journalists Patrisia Gonzales and
Roberto Rodriguez, E. A. "Tony" Mares, Cecile Pineda, Raúl Salinas
(raúlrsalinas), Virgil Suárez, Carmen Tafolla, and Alma Luz
Villanueva. Of course there are several other major writers in some
of our anthologies. Wings also publishes a lot of first-time
authors, mainly poets. For a while we had a prize – the Premio
Poesía Tejana – for Texas Latinas under the age of 30. There were
seven books in that series, by Greta De Leon, Victoria García
Zapata, Celeste Guzmán, Carolina Monsivaís, Nicole Pollentier, Mary
Grace Rodriguez, and Frances Treviño. Some others include Wings,
Sheila Sanchez Hatch and Deborah Parédez.

I really like publishing great writing that has been or is being
overlooked by readers. For example, I republished two of Cecile
Pineda's books from the 1980s and 90s – Face and The Love Queen of
the Amazon. A third republication is coming next spring, her novel
Frieze. I've also published three new works by Cecile: Fishlight: A
Memoir of Childhood and two extremely innovative "mononovels,"
Bardo99 and Redoubt. Now, if you don't know Cecile's writing,
consider this statement from last September's (2004) Bloomsbury
Review: "Writers, readers, teachers, and creative writing classes,
take note: Cecile Pineda is an American original, a literary
treasure, and her prodigiously inventive and important work, finally
returning to print in a landmark and long-awaited reissue, deserves
a place in the forefront of American literature." By the way, you
can expect to hear an interview with Cecile on Latino USA on NPR
coming up in the near future.

Wings has three very important Latina titles coming out in the fall
of 2004. The first out will be a 200-page collection of poetry by
Marjorie Agosín entitled The Tree of Memory / El arbol de la
memoria. It is a facing page edition, Spanish and English. A musical
based on this book will be touring the country in 2005-2006. Next
out will be Ana Castillo's first published play, Psst … I Have
Something to Tell You, Mi Amor, which is about the rape and torture
of Sister Dianna Ortiz at the hands of US-funded and US-directed
forces in Guatemala. The third is a serious coup for any publisher
interested in Latina literature – Lorna Dee Cervantes' first book in
14 years. Drive: The First Quartet is nearly 300 pages of really
really powerful poetry. Drive will debut with a reading at the
National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 14.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
I have probably published more poetry than is good for any press, so
I'm moving more toward fiction and non-fiction for a while. But to
answer the question, I'm not "seeking" anything in particular. I
know what I will publish when I see it.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
The first thing is to pick the right publisher for what you are
writing. I get an enormous number of romance novel submissions, for
example, and just a glace at the website will indicate that this is
one of the last things on earth I would publish. Actually reading a
book or two from the press and mentioning them in your cover letter
is an excellent thing to do.

Don't send me an entire book. It won't get read and it is a waste of
good trees. I prefer to get an informative cover letter with just a
few poems or one or two chapters, and I prefer to get them by e-mail
first. If I am interested, I'll ask for more. Also, as the website
says, Wings does not publish poets who do not read poetry. You
wouldn't believe how often that happens. Something else that will
get my attention in a cover letter is a clear indication of how
active the writer is when it comes to giving readings, going to book
fairs and conferences, all that. New authors sometimes do not
understand that a publisher is not automatically a booking agency.
Except in special circumstances where the sales are likely to be
substantial, we do not arrange or pay for book tours. Think about
how many books one has to sell just to pay for an average airplane
ticket. But the single most important thing is to interest me with
both the cover letter and the sample.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
"Successfully" is a relative term here. Beyond the satisfaction of
publishing a good book, for the publisher, success is necessarily
measured in sales, reviews, awards, etc., but mainly sales. For the
author, it could be that "success" simply means another book on
their shelf, or perhaps it is the thing that puts them over the line
in pursuit of university tenure, or perhaps it is just about getting
a good critical response. The author expects royalties, but no one
should reasonably expect to be able to live off the royalties from a
regional publisher. On the other hand, my authors can buy their own
books on credit at a 50% discount, then go out and sell them at
their non-bookstore events such as readings and lectures at schools
and other organizations, conferences and book fairs, etc. One of my
authors does at least two educational conferences a month, and at
each she sells 50 books or more. For a $16 book, that means she is
making about $400 per event in book sales, plus her honorarium. As I
said above, the author must be actively involved in promoting the
book. I have rejected numerous authors with five or six books to
their credit, many trailing awards, because when I call up their
other publishers and ask the crucial question -- "Do their books
sell?" – I am told that the author doesn't help to push the book. I
do not think that many regional publishers have any illusions of
getting rich in this business. Almost all of us plow a significant
portion of the "profits" right back into the next book. So "success"
requires effort on everyone's part, but the author most of all.

Send submissions to: Bryce Milligan, Wings Press, 627 E. Guenther,
San Antonio, TX 78210 or milligan@...
Wings Press web site: www.wingspress.com
More Editor Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Author Spotlight
E.A. "Tony" Mares has published extensively in English and Spanish
as a poet, translator, essayist, playwright, fiction writer,
journalist, and historian. His poetry and fiction have been
published nationally and internationally in Frank, Prairie Schooner,
Blue Mesa Review, and many other publications. He is the author of
several books, including With the Eyes of a Raptor, an
intellectually wide-ranging and emotionally engaging poetry
collection.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
Actually, there are many.  Miguel de Cervantes inspires me with his
Don Quijote because his characters inform us that all humans are
worthy of appearing in great literature and being treated with
respect, dignity, and a gentle humor, not just the well-born and the
high and mighty.  Jaime Sabines, Pablo Neruda, Angel Gonzalez,
Lorca, Yeats, Gabriela Mistral, Borges, and many, many others have
written poetry that has inspired me to achieve what I can with this
wonderful and demanding art form.  Speaking in very general terms,
these poets along with others, to mention only a few, such as
Czeslaw Milosz, Charles Simic, James Dickey, Roethke, Auden, Pound,
Williams, and Heaney have explored poetry as a source for personal
truth that transcends the social lies of politicians.  I read
voraciously and internationally and that is one thing I think a poet
should do.

Why do you love to write?
I am most alive when I write.  Like any other person, I am always in
contact with nature.  How can it be otherwise until the day we die?
But while I live, my greatest sense of contact with the world, with
all of it, from the greatest cosmic reaches to the subatomic strings
that are said to compose quarks, from the largest stellar objects to
those smaller than the Planck length and the Planck time, occurs
when I am deep inside a poem inside myself.  Every poem is for me a
new cosmos to explore, virgin territory never seen quite the same
way before, experienced quite the same way, as I am experiencing
it.  This is what happens to me when I write and that is why I love
this activity, this way of being.

How did you meet your agent?
I do not have an agent and as a poet I seriously doubt that I need
one.  However, I write essays, fiction, memoir, and at some point I
might want to have an agent.  Given American publishing conditions,
for most genres an agent is probably a good idea.

What is your writing ritual?
I've never met a morning I didn't want to sleep through.  Basically,
I'm a night person.  I like to work late morning with a cup of
coffee either at home or in a favorite coffee shop, writing
longhand.  I take a nap in early afternoon, then I am charged up to
work at least until midnight.  At home, I usually work at my
computer, sometimes with good streaming music in the background,
depending on my mood and what I am writing.  I will write at set,
forced-pace hours when either inspiration or the dread of
approaching deadlines strikes me.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Hone your craft, read widely, and steep yourself in your cultural
roots.  There is an americano dream, despite Samuel P. Huntington's
claims to the contrary.  Latino cultures were forged out of both
incorporation of European elements and indigenous resistance to
them.  Try to see the world through your non-European eyes, your
indio eyes, to get a more holistic vision of your cosmos.   When you
have your collection of poems, essays, or short stories, or your
novel, then study publication market realities very seriously and
methodically.  Do that, and if you write well, you should be able to
find the kind of support you want for your writing career.  Agents
and publishers have an intelligent self-interest in wanting to
publish good writers, but you have to pull your own weight in terms
of writing your very best – and that, I believe, is a lifetime
commitment.  If you are a poet, welcome to the company of loners.
Write your poems, take creative writing classes if possible (but
they are not necessary), attend workshops, readings, and study the
poetry publishing possibilities. If you write well enough, and
honestly, your poems will find a market, even in America.

Read reviews: www.wingspress.com
Obtain With the Eyes of a Raptor:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0930324587/marcelalandre-
20/102-7977679-5168148?%5Fencoding=UTF8&camp=1789&link%5Fcode=xm2
Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

4. Upcoming Workshops
4/16 -- How to Pitch Your Book Idea/What Editors Really Want
Workshops

WHAT: Two workshops:

How to Pitch Your Book Idea
Pitching a book idea in a single sentence is an essential skill most
writers lack, and one they especially need in order to impress
agents and editors at writing conferences. Topics discussed include:
why pitching is important; how to formulate a winning pitch; and the
three most common mistakes writers make when pitching their book
idea.

What Editors Really Want
Writers who master the business of publishing are more likely to be
successfully published than writers who only master the craft of
writing. Topics discussed include: why writing conferences are a
better investment than M.F.A. programs; the supreme importance of a
platform; and the three most common mistakes writers make when
dealing with editors.

In addition, I will conduct one-on-one manuscript review sessions.

WHEN:  How to Pitch Your Book Idea - 9am, April 16
                What Editors Really Want - 2pm, April 16

WHERE: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Spring Writers
Festival, UWM School of Continuing Education, 161 W. Wisconsin
Avenue, Milwaukee, WI

REGISTER: Visit http://cfprod.imt.uwm.edu/sce/course.cfm?id=6774
QUESTIONS?: Contact Anne O'Meara, Program Director, aomeara@...,
414-227-3311

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

5. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
TRUE POET MAGAZINE SEEKS POEMS
Send up to five of your very best poems each month to
submissions@.... We select and publish the top ten
poems out of two hundred or so that are submitted each month. We
accept submissions through the 25th of the month for the following
month's issue. Include a short bio and a link to your personal
poetry website. Only writers whose work has been accepted for
publication will hear from us, by the 28th of the current month. For
more information visit http://www.truepoetmagazine.com
*****
STAN AND TOM WICK POETRY PRIZE
Deadline: May 1
A prize of $2000 and publication by Kent State University Press is
given annually for a first book of poems. Poets who have not
published a full-length collection may apply. For more information
visit http://dept.kent.edu/wick/.
*****
HISPANIC WRITER AWARD
Deadline: May 1
For fiction, non-fiction, or poetry. Open to any New Mexican
resident of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish heritage. For more
information visit http://www.unm.edu/~taosconf.
*****
AWP CONFERENCE SEEKS LATINO PROPOSALS
Deadline for proposals: May 1
The Association of Writing Programs will hold its annual conference
in 2006 in Austin, Texas and they are requesting proposals for
events focusing on Latino Literature in the U.S. The conference
attracts more than 4,000 attendees and more than 250 publishers. For
more information visit http://www.awpwriter.org.
*****
BOULEVARD EMERGING POETS CONTEST
Deadline: May 15
An annual prize of $1,000 and publication in Boulevard will be given
for a group of three poems by a poet who has not yet published a
book of poetry with a nationally distributed press. Send an SASE or
e-mail for complete guidelines. Boulevard, Emerging Poets Contest,
PMB 325, 6614 Clayton Road, Richmond Heights, MO 63117; Richard
Burgin, Editor, ballymon@...
*****
GIVAL PRESS OSCAR WILDE AWARD CONTEST
Deadline: June 27
Prize: $100 for the best previously unpublished poem about GLBT
life, any style, any length in English. Reading fee: $5 per poem.
For details email: givalpress@... or visit:
www.givalpress.com. Or write: Gival Press, PO Box, 3812, Arlington,
VA 22203.
*****
LATINA LETTERS CONFERENCE
Date: July 14-16
Conference on Latina literature and identity, sponsored by St.
Mary's University and the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center in San
Antonio, TX. Featuring Sandra Cisneros, Pat Mora, and Alicia Gaspar
de Alba, among others. For more information and to register visit
http://www.guadalupeculturalarts.org.
*****
LATINO SHORT FICTION ANTHOLOGY
Deadline: September 1
Dan Olivas is editing an anthology of short fiction by Latinos/as in
which the City of Los Angeles plays an integral role. He seeks
provocative stories on virtually any subject by both established and
new writers. For guidelines and more information visit
www.danielolivas.com and click on News.
*****
SEEKING MEXICAN TRANSLATOR RAFAEL ZAVALA PINON
Liliana Valenzuela, a highly respected and talented translator, is
looking for the Mexican translator by the name of: Rafael Zavala
Piñón who translated into Spanish the novel "Chicano" by the late
author Richard Vásquez (English original pub. in 1970); Spanish
translation pub. in México in 1972 by: Editorial Novaro, S.A. a.k.a.
Organización Editorial Novaro, S.A. Their former address: Calle 5,
no. 12, Naucalpan de Juárez, Estado de México. In addition to
the "Chicano" novel, Editorial Novaro seems to have published a lot
of comic books in the 1980s. The publisher is no longer in business
(it was perhaps bought by another company or just faded from
existence). In the fall, Rayo (a division of Harper Collins) will
reissue the 1970 novel in a deluxe 35th anniversary paperback
edition, and they would subsequently like to publish it in Spanish,
but they need to find either the translator or a vestige of the
company to secure the rights in Spanish. Any leads would be greatly
appreciated. Please contact Liliana Valenzuela at
malinche@....
*****
LATINO BOOKS MONTH
In its ongoing efforts to promote books by and for Latinos, the
Association of American Publishers (AAP) has designated May 2005 as
the second annual "Latino Books Month." During the month-long
celebration, booksellers, librarians, and others in the book
industry will encourage people in their communities to read books by
and for Latinos, in both English and Spanish. For more information
visit http://www.publishers.org/.
*****
NOMINATE WWW.MARCELALANDRES.COM
If you like my web site, www.marcelalandres.com,  please nominate it
for Writer's Digest Magazine's "The Best 101 Websites for Writers"
for 2005. Send nominations to writersdig@... with "101 Sites"
in the subject line and include a brief note explaining how the web
site has helped you; I thank you in advance for your nominations.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I provide developmental editing for book manuscripts and critiques
for book proposals. In addition, I offer strategic advice on how to
launch and maintain a successful writing career. If you are
interested in a consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm or by visiting
www.marcelalandres.com and clicking on Consultations.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why.
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on
Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
"Painting is silent poetry, and poetry is a painting that speaks."--
Simonides

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Marcela Landres
Editorial Consultant
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/
Helping writers get published.

Latinidad™ Newsletter – February 2005: Writing Conferences

Contents:
1. Saludos: Writing Conferences
2. Q&A: Bread Loaf Director Michael Collier
3. Recommendations: AWP
4. Author Spotlight: Manuel Luis Martinez
5. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
6. Writing Opportunities: National Latino Writers Conference
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
Writing conferences are an excellent way for writers to raise their
profile in the literary community. The objective is not just to hone
your craft, but also to network. Presenters are usually successfully
published authors who are potential mentors; fellow attendees may
grow up to be book reviewers, contest judges, or critically
acclaimed authors who can blurb your book; and, of course, editors
and agents attend specifically with the agenda of signing up
writers. Highlights from this issue include: an interview with the
director of a prominent conference in Q&A; a web site with a
comprehensive directory of conferences in Recommendations; and
announcements about upcoming conferences of note in Writing
Opportunities.
      Thanks to all who responded to the Newsletter Survey—I will be
in touch with those who provided the most thoughtful and thorough
responses to schedule free half-hour consultations.
      If you like my web site, www.marcelalandres.com, please
nominate it for Writer's Digest Magazine's "The Best 101 Websites
for Writers" for 2005. Send nominations to writersdig@...
with "101 Sites" in the subject line and include a brief note
explaining how the web site has helped you; I thank you in advance
for your nominations.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Q&A
Michael Collier has served as the director of the Bread Loaf
Writers' Conference, Middlebury College since 1994, and is the
author of four books of poems, The Clasp and Other Poems, The Folded
Heart, The Neighbor, and, most recently, The Ledge which was a
finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Los
Angeles Times Book Prize.  He has received Guggenheim, National
Endowment for the Arts, and Thomas Watson fellowships and
a "Discovery"/The Nation Award among others. He is currently a
professor of English at the University of Maryland and was a former
Poet Laureate of Maryland.

The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference is renowned as one of the most
prestigious in the nation; for those writers who are not familiar
with writing conferences, what specifically distinguishes it from
the countless other conferences available to writers?
Bread Loaf is distinctive for a number of reasons.  Founded by
Robert Frost and Willa Cather 80 years ago, it's the oldest writers'
conference in the country and as such it has become one of the
United States' premier literary institutions.  The faculty and
participants is a kind of "Who's Who" of American writers, including
Katherine Anne Porter, Carson McCullers, Ralph Ellison, Toni
Morrison, Wallace Stevens, William Carlos Williams, Richard Wright,
and many others.  The size of the Conference makes it distinctive as
well.  Approximately 250 people participate each year and as a
result a tremendous amount of energy develops during the 11 days.
Lastly, there is probably no more beautiful place than the Bread
Loaf campus; its beauty has a timeless quality, which allows
participants to disconnect from their regular life and
preoccupations and to disappear fully into the dream of writing.

Which Latino authors have attended Bread Loaf in the past?
Until recently, the two most prominent Latina writers who attended
Bread Loaf are Julia Alvarez and Judith Ortiz Cofer.  In the past
few years, Julia Alvarez, Sandra Benitez, Dagoberto Gilb, Barry
Lopez, Pablo Medina, Sigrid Nunez, Alberto Rios, and Helena Maria
Viramontes have been faculty members.  Richard Blanco, Herman
Carrillio, Kevin Gonzales, Felicia Luna Lemus, Albert Martinez,
Manuel Luis Martinez, Nancy Mendoza, Pablo Peschiera, Ernesto
Quinonez, among others, have received various kinds of scholarships
to attend the Conference.
      We seek to create a diverse environment, one that tries to
reflect the wide range of literary activity in the United States.

Which genres are covered at the conference?
Bread Loaf concentrates on three genres: poetry, fiction, and
creative nonfiction.

Which genres are not covered at the conference?
Many years ago, Bread Loaf used to have a children's literature
component, but it was determined that the Conference could serve the
majority of participants better by focusing on only three areas.
There are a number of very fine conferences that include other
genres.  The Sewanee Writers' Conference has playwriting, for
example.

What types of financial aid are offered?
Bread Loaf offers three main kinds of scholarships: work-study
scholarships (waiterships), tuition scholarships, and fellowships.
The Bread Loaf waiters serve meals in the dining hall and in return
for this work fees are covered.  We usually receive in the
neighborhood of 600 applications for 25 work-study spots.  It is
probably the most competitive category of the Conference.  Tuition
scholars pay for room and board but not tuition which is the greater
portion of Bread Loaf fees.  Bread Loaf Scholars have begun to
publish regularly in journals and magazines but have not yet had a
book published.  The Conference usually supports 10-15 Scholars.
Bread Loaf Fellows must have one but not more than two books publish
in the genre they apply in.  There are 19-20 Fellows, one per
workshop.  Fellows have the comprehensive fee paid for and they
often act as assistants to the faculty.  We also offer a limited
number of partial tuition scholarships.  These are awarded on the
basis of literary promise as are all of the Bread Loaf scholarships.

In 2004, only 22% of general applicants were accepted; other than
honing their craft, what can writers do to increase their chances of
being accepted?
The most important part of a Bread Loaf application is the writing
sample.  Bread Loaf Admissions Board judges the application on the
merits of the writing sample. The Admissions Board also takes notice
of applicants who have applied more than once and whose work seems
to be growing and improving.  So, if you don't get in the first time
around, try again!

To apply and for more information, visit: www.middlebury.edu/blwc
Send queries to: Noreen Cargill, Bread Loaf Writers' Conference,
Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT 05753, ncargill@...
More Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Recommendations
The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) was founded in
1967 to support the growing presence of writers in higher education
and thereby foster new generations of writers and new audiences for
literature. Included among the many valuable services they offer
are: a magazine, The Writer's Chronicle, which lists information on
grants, awards, fellowships, web sites, and other publishing
opportunities; contests for unpublished writers (for more
information see Writing Opportunities below); and a web site,
www.awpwriter.org, which offers a directory of over 100 writing
conferences and centers for students, faculty, and individual
members who are looking for a particular conference to attend.

Web site http://www.awpwriter.org/
Offer a recommendation: marcelalandres@...
More recommendations: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
Manuel Luis Martinez, a past Bread Loaf attendee, is a fierce and
funny writer. His novel Drift reads like a blue-collar Catcher in
the Rye for the Ñ generation. It takes a rare talent to create a
character as real yet original as Robert Lomos, a bookish thug (or
is it thuggish bookworm?) who is begging for both a smack upside the
head and a hug. Abandoned by unreliable parents, 16-year old Lomos
embodies an alarming alienation tempered by an inspiring resiliency.
Graced with line after line of powerful writing, Drift will anchor
itself into your mind long after you stop turning its pages.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
My major influences early on were the usual suspects: Kurt Vonnegut,
J.D. Salinger, Joseph Heller, but the writer who inspired me to take
up writing was Tomas Rivera. I was an undergraduate at St. Mary's
University in San Antonio when I first read ". . . And the Earth Did
Not Devour Him." I remember being taken aback by the realization
that Chicanos wrote books about their own experience. My
grandparents and father were migrant workers and so Rivera's stories
spoke to me in very real, material ways. He gave their stories a
kind of legitimacy and social relevance that I had never thought
about. Here was literature that I could relate to in a direct way. I
began to write in earnest then, believing that maybe my experiences
growing up Latino, poor, and on the "wrong side of town" might be
important to other people. Rivera is the Chicano Steinbeck, a
humanist and a master storyteller who can touch the reader to the
core in short, direct passages that taken together pack an emotional
wallop that can change the way you see the world. He's an
inspiration.

Why do you love to write?
I love writing because I love telling stories. My earliest memories
revolve around the power of being able to captivate listeners with a
tale. My Tia Hortencia, who never married and spent her life taking
care of all her nephews and nieces, kept us enthralled with her
stories, tales about growing up during the depression, stories about
the neighbors and characters who lived in the barrio, the Westside
of San Antonio, and of course, bible stories which she embellished
and made interesting to restless six and seven year olds. I spoke
only Spanish until I started grade school and was mostly ignored.
There weren't bilingual programs in those days, at least not at
Edgewood Elementary. And I quickly became alienated from the whole
school scene. But there was one teacher who took a bit of interest
in me and the way that she brought me out of my shell and helped me
to begin speaking English, was to ask me to tell her a story. So
every morning, instead of staring out the window listlessly, as I
did in other classes, I was invited to tell her a story and soon she
asked me to tell the class a story. And so it went. I learned very
early the power of narrative and of its importance in creating a
community and a space in which people feel comfortable in
articulating their shared experience. Besides, it beats real work.

How did you meet your agent?
My agent is Matt Williams (the Gernert Agency, NY) and I contacted
him out of the blue. I read a wonderful book by Stewert O'Nan called
Everyday People and hoped that since I wrote about similar issues,
that his agent might be interested in my work. So I queried him with
a short pitch about my novel, Drift, and he liked the idea. He's
been great. He's got a real sense about what I'm trying to get
accomplished, and best of all, he's got a wonderful and perceptive
literary sensibility. That's crucial in an agent. So do your
homework. Find an agent that has similar affinities, someone who
cares about what you're writing and not just about whether it will
sell.

What is your writing ritual?
I'm a night owl. I write from about midnight to four or five in the
morning. Fortunately, I'm a college professor and so my schedule is
flexible enough to allow this. It's about the only time that I feel
that everything is "turned off." No one is awake (except for crazy
writers or security guards) and I can settle in and focus on
imaginary landscapes and fictional characters. That being said, I
tend to write in spurts, so that I write intensely for a couple of
months and then let the manuscript rest for a while. I find that it
gives me the critical distance I need so that I can begin revising.
This goes on for about a year or so, and then the novel is born.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
That's a tough one because so much luck is involved. I'd say
persistence is a definite characteristic of the successful writer
(i.e. published). There are a lot of people out there who are going
to say, "No, not interested." But the truth is that Latinos are a
growing and important segment of the reading population. There's a
market out there and if you are writing good stuff, if you just keep
sending it around, eventually someone will say "yes." I self-agented
my first novel. I did research on which small, literary presses
specialized in Latino literature and sent the manuscript around.
Bilingual Press, out of Arizona State University, eventually
accepted it and did a very nice job with it. Someone in New York
noticed and I was eventually able to get the attention of a New York
agent and then a NY publisher. This was not an overnight success
story. It was ten years in the making and that's why I say, if you
believe in your work, keep after it. Stay persistent.

Read reviews:
http://www.holtzbrinckpublishers.com/academic/Book/BookDisplay.asp?
BookKey=740484
Obtain Drift :
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0312309953/marcelalandre-
20/103-1381768-2933445?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
3/1/05 -- How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal

WHAT: Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is weak,
but because the writer failed to provide agents and editors with all
the information they need. This is especially true for fiction
proposals. Topics discussed include: the true purpose of a proposal;
why 90% of proposals are rejected based on the cover letter alone;
and the three most common mistakes writers make when preparing
proposals.

WHEN: Tuesday, March 1, 6:45 pm - 9:30 pm

WHERE: The Learning Annex, New York City, NY

REGISTER: Visit http://www.learningannex.com/ and search for "427DNY"

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
REMINDER: BREAD LOAF WRITERS CONFERENCE
Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 1
General Application Deadline: March 19
Date: August 17 - 28
The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference is one of America's most valuable
literary institutions. The annual conference includes lectures,
craft classes, meetings with editors and agents, readings by faculty
and guests, and workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative
nonfiction.  Faculty members include Michael Collier, Amy Hempel,
and Patricia Hampl. For an application and complete guidelines visit
www.middlebury.edu/blwc/.
*****
NATIONAL LATINO WRITERS CONFERENCE
Date: May 19-21
Nationally recognized authors, agents and editors will conduct
workshops and participate in panel discussions on fiction, poetry,
screenwriting, playwriting and memoir. All those who attend will
have the opportunity to have three individual appointments with
agents, authors and editors. To register and for more information
visit http://www.nhccnm.org/.
*****
SCHOLASTIC EDITORIAL/MARKETING/DESIGN/PROMOTION FELLOWSHIP
Deadline: February 11
Scholastic Inc., the global children's publishing and media company
and the Children's Defense Fund (CDF) are pleased to invite you to
apply for the 2005 Scholastic/CDF Fellows program. The goal of the
program is to reach out to a diverse population to increase interest
in children's publishing. The five 2005 Scholastic/CDF Fellows will
be introduced to the publishing world through an intensive paid
internship that will take place at Scholastic Inc. headquarters in
New York City. To apply and for more information visit
http://www.childrensdefense.org/internships/scholastic.aspx. Please
direct queries to Nicholas M. Bassey, Deputy Director, Children's
Defense Fund Freedom Schools, 202-628-8787,
nbassey@..., or contact Ms. Tarika Thomas,
Scholastic, Inc. Internship Coordinator, 212.389.3609,
tthomas@....
*****
THE AWP AWARD SERIES
Deadline: February 28
The AWP Award Series is an annual competition for the publication of
excellent new book-length works of poetry, fiction, and creative
nonfiction. Winners in the Award Series receive a cash honorarium
plus publication of their book. The competition is open to all
authors writing in English regardless of nationality or residence.
Donald Hall Prize in Poetry: $4,000
Judge: Ha Jin
University of Pittsburgh Press
Grace Paley Prize in Short Fiction: $ 4,000
Judge: Ana Menendez
University of Massachusetts Press
AWP Prize in Creative Nonfiction: $2,000
Judge: Robin Hemley
University of Georgia Press
AWP Prize in the Novel: $2,000
Judge: Rikki Ducornet
New Issues Press
For guidelines and more information visit http://www.awpwriter.org/.
*****
INTERNSHIPS FOR MINORITIES IN MAGAZINES/BOOKS/TELEVISION
Deadline: March 1
The Women's Media Group, a New York City-based non-profit
organization, is offering several internships during the summer of
2005 for minority women. Only college juniors need apply. These paid
positions are approximately eight weeks in length.  The internships
will be with national magazines, book publishing houses, and
broadcast networks. (Last year, we placed interns with Time Inc.,
Conde Nast, Bloomberg Financial News, and Random House, Inc., among
others.). Housing is not provided and all applicants must be able to
secure their own accommodations in the New York City area.
      Interviews will be conducted during the months of February and
March and applicants will be informed of decisions shortly
thereafter. The application should include a resume and a cover
letter telling us about yourself, your college studies, and why you
are interested in an internship with a media company. For more
information about WMG and the internship program, please visit
http://www.womensmediagroup.org/.
      Contact Information: Furaha Norton, Chair, Internship
Committee, Women's Media Group, internship@..., c/o
Oxford University Press, 198 Madison Avenue, New York, New York
10016, 212-726-6148
*****
WHIDBEY ISLAND WRITERS' CONFERENCE
Date: March 4 - 6
Offers workshops, individual consultations with editors and agents,
sample critique sessions, fireside chats with more than 30 published
authors, and a writing contest. Presenters include Luis Urrea,
Sheila Bender, and Cherry Adair.  To register visit
www.writeonwhidbey.com.
*****
BOMB MAGAZINE SEEKS FICTION
Deadline: April 1
First Prize includes $1,000 honorarium and publication in BOMB
Magazine.  Final Judge is Patrick McGrath, Please include a $20
reading fee which includes a free one year subscription to BOMB, a
highly-regarded art and culture publication. No more than one story
per entry, 20 pages maximum.  Simultaneous submissions OK, but no
previously published work.  Include cover letter and SASE.  All
entries considered anonymously. Mail all entries to: BOMB Magazine,
Annual Fiction Prize, 80 Hanson Place, #703, Brooklyn, NY 11217. For
more details, consult our website at www.bombsite.com/prize.html or
e-mail us at info@....
*****
ASJA WRITERS CONFERENCES
Date: April 16-17
The American Society of Journalists and Authors hosts an annual
conference open to nonmembers as well as ASJA members. They present
a wide range of workshops, including Self-Publishing and Print-on-
Demand, Software for Writers, and Contracts 101. To register and for
more information visit http://www.asja.org/. There is a discount if
you register by March 25.
*****
KENYON REVIEW WRITERS WORKSHOP
Date: June 25-July 3
For poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers.
Includes workshops limited to 12 participants, meetings with
instructors, and readings by distinguished faculty including David
Baker, Janet McAdams, Jane McCafferty and Rebecca McClanahan.
Admissions begin on a rolling basis January 4. For guidelines and
more information visit http://www.kenyonreview.org/.
*****
SEEKING LATINO TV WRITERS
A leading children's cable network is looking for Latino writer's
pitches for a live action children's show starring a 13 year-old
Latina actress. They are adamantly seeking writers for story ideas
and comedic writers are especially encouraged to come forward.
Ideally, they would want someone who could conceptualize and write
the story. It does not need to be Latino-themed content, but it must
be child appropriate.
      They are also looking for a head writer/ lead producer for an
animated series. In this case, the writer/producer would be
collaborating with a famous personality to drive the show. The
series is a comedy about NYC urban youngsters.
      If you or anyone you know is interested please contact Maribel
La Luz, mlaluz@....
*****
ICONOCULTURE SEEKS ASSISTANT EDITOR
Iconoculture is a world-class research and advisory service.
Employees work in a virtual environment. The Assistant Editor will
gather Latino consumer trend ideas, write and edit articles from
approved ideas, and provide administrative backup for the Editor.
Must be based on the East Coast, with NYC or NJ preferred. A degree
in Journalism or related field with experience in journalistic or
trend reporting, preferably in an online or wire-service
environment, is what is needed. Please email cover letter, resume to
abelardo@....
*****
NOMINATE WWW.MARCELALANDRES.COM
If you like my web site, www.marcelalandres.com, please nominate it
for Writer's Digest Magazine's "The Best 101 Websites for Writers"
for 2005. Send nominations to writersdig@... with "101 Sites"
in the subject line and include a brief note explaining how the web
site has helped you; I thank you in advance for your nominations.
*****
CONSULTATIONS
I provide developmental editing for book manuscripts and critiques
for book proposals. In addition, I offer strategic advice on how to
launch and maintain a successful writing career. If you are
interested in a consultation, please fill out the questionnaire here
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm or by visiting
www.marcelalandres.com and clicking on Consultations.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why.
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on
Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
"The first draft of anything is shitty."—Ernest Hemingway

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad™ Newsletter – January 2005: Self Help

Contents:
1. Saludos: Self Help
2. Editor Q&A: Mary Glenn, McGraw-Hill Trade
3. Recommendations: Publishers Weekly Article
4. Author Spotlight: Yrma Rico
5. Upcoming Workshops: Hispanic Professionals Networking Group Event
6. Writing Opportunities: Workshop for Writers of Color
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
January is the time of year when bookstores hold "New Year, New You"
promotions in anticipation of customers with New Year's resolutions.
These promotions often spotlight self-help books, a category that
has traditionally been popular among Latinos. In fact, at one point
the most profitable self-help section of the entire Borders chain
was located in Puerto Rico. While editors and agents often focus on
literary and commercial Latino fiction, Latino self-help is arguably
a category that merits attention.
As mentioned in last month's issue, in order to continue providing
the best service possible to the Latino literary community, I invite
you to fill out a short survey regarding this newsletter and share
your thoughts on what works, what doesn't, and why. In return, I
will give a free half-hour consultation to the ten writers who
provide the most thorough and thoughtful responses. To take the
survey visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm, or visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Newsletter then Newsletter
Survey; the deadline is February 1, 2005.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Editor Q&A
Mary Glenn is Editorial Director at McGraw-Hill Trade. Her
bestsellers include Wake Up Calls by Joan Lunden, Take it From Me by
Erin Brockovich, and Crucial Confrontations, by Kerry Patterson. She
has also held editorial positions at Holt, Rinehart, and Winston,
William Morrow, and Columbia University Press.

Why is McGraw-Hill a great home for Latino writers?
As one of the leading trade publishers in the US, McGraw-Hill
recognizes the growing influence that the Latino population has in
the US, and we want to ensure we have books that will be of interest
to this important market. For Latino writers, McGraw-Hill offers an
instantly recognized brand name that will help them cross over into
the general reading population – as well as get their message out to
readers around the world.

Which Latino authors has McGraw-Hill published?
Yrma Rico was one of the first to publish a book specifically for
the Latino (in this case, Latina!) audience, but we have many
authors of Latino heritage on our list, including most recently
Loretta Malandro (Say it Right the First Time) and Linda Dominguez
(How to Shine at Work).

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
We look for topics in business, management, investing, personal
finance, leadership, self-help, fitness, health, sports, and
education. So basically, all the non-fiction topics with a practical
how-to focus. We don't publish memoirs, novels, or poetry at this
time.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
For McGraw-Hill, writers should focus on what the reader will learn
from their book. All McGraw-Hill books "teach" readers something:
how to do something better. Our authors are also experts in their
field, so make sure to focus on your credentials for writing your
book.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become successfully published?
One of the most important things is to do your research! Finding an
interested publisher is a lot like finding an interested employer:
know what the Publisher is looking for, know what is currently
successful for them, and position your own book in line with what is
successful for them. Just as important, though, for writers is to
love what you do, because that commitment will show through. Talk to
other writers, take workshops and classes, attend other writers'
readings, read other peoples' books: show your support and you will
find support!

Send submissions to: Mary_glenn@... or c/o McGraw-Hill,
Two Penn Plaza, NY, NY 10121
McGraw-Hill Trade web site: http://books.mcgraw-hill.com/
More Editor Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Recommendations
Publishers Weekly published an overview of the self-help
market, "Climbing Every Mountain," which features comments from some
of the top editors who have published -- and are likely seeking --
self-help books. If you wish to publish a self-help book, use this
article to compile a list of editors and agents to whom to submit
your proposal. First, cull the names of all the editors quoted in
the article. Conduct a search on each editor's name on Publishers
Weekly's web site, http://www.publishersweekly.com/; the search may
bring up articles that mention agents they've worked with in the
past. If so, add the agents to your list. Take your list to your
local library and look up the contact information for each editor
and agent in the LMP (Literary Market Place), which should be
located in the reference section.
	 Note that one of the authors mentioned in the article,
Matthew Kelly, landed a book deal only after self-publishing -- and
selling the heck out of -- nine books.

Read "Climbing Every Mountain" article:
http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA471788.html?text=self+help
Offer a recommendation: marcelalandres@...
More recommendations: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
Yrma Rico is a self-made millionaire, and nothing would give her
greater pleasure than to help other Latinas become rich. To this
end, she has written La Vida Rica: The Latina's Guide to Success, a
quick read which offers no-nonsense advice. I found myself
highlighting numerous passages, some which reinforced cherished
beliefs ("What will make you a star? One thing and one thing only:
You must do everything you can to help other people."), and some
which challenged long-held assumptions ("Here's the dirty little
secret of success: Nobody cares whether you do your job perfectly
every day. It's all about who you know—and whether those people like
you."). Whether you are seeking to enrich your professional or
personal life, La Vida Rica will serve as a virtual mentor.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
I can honestly say that I never dreamt that I would write a book
and/or be published. I was approached by Nancy Garascia after she
read about me in the local paper, The Denver Post.

Why did you choose to write a self-help book?
The idea of a self help book came after reading other self help
books and finding them too generic and/or too technical. I wanted to
write a book that was easy to read and that every reader would be
able to take something out of it, even if only one chapter applied
to them. However, I have found that many women find La Vida Rica a
book that they can relate to and keep close for reference. I am very
thrilled about that.

How did you meet your agent?
My agent is Linda Konner from NY. She and Nancy Garascia had both
worked on other projects together. After a few phone calls and e-
mails we finally met in NY and I was signed by Linda.

What is your writing ritual?
My writing ritual was very simple - after Nancy and I decided on the
chapter subjects we then would on a weekly basis spend a couple of
hours reviewing the chapter then writing and re-writing. This took
about eight months to complete. We were on a very tight schedule
from McGraw Hill. McGraw Hill, after we finished the writing, wrote
the format and had a focus group come up with the cover design. The
title was my idea, a spin on La Vida Loca, with my last name
Rico/Rica.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
In landing the book deal my advice is (I know we have all heard it,
but it's worth repeating): Don't Give Up. Mark Victor Hansen was
turned down more then 45 times, but he never gave up, and look where
he is today with the Chicken Soup series. I will, by the way, be
included in their next book which has a working title of Cracking
the Wealth Code. So if you feel strongly about what you have
written, have faith you may be the next Menudo para la Latina.

Read description:
http://books.mcgraw-hill.com/getbook.php?
isbn=0071422188&template=selfhelp
Obtain La Vida Rica:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0071422188/marcelalandre-
20/102-3775774-2763340?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
1/20/05- Hispanic Professionals Networking Group Event

WHAT: The Hispanics Professionals Networking Group holds monthly
networking events to bring people together from every industry. Each
event includes speakers who can educate, motivate and share what is
happening in their industry. Nonmembers welcome. For more
information, visit http://hpng.net.

WHO: Editorial Consultant Marcela Landres will discuss book
publishing in general and Latino book publishing in particular.

WHEN: 6:00-8:00p.m., Wednesday, January 20 [Note: date was changed
from 1/19]
$10 cover charge - cash bar

WHERE: Elmo, downstairs lounge, 156 7th Avenue, New York, NY 10011,
(btw. 19th & 20th Sts.)

RSVP: rsvp@...

QUESTIONS: Ali Curi, 917-860-5673 or email: ali@...

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
When you contact these organizations, please mention that you were
referred by the Latinidad™ Newsletter. Thank you, and let me know
what happens.
*********************************************************************
WORKSHOP FOR WRITERS OF COLOR
Deadline: April 4, 2005
VONA (The Voices of Our Nation Arts Foundation) is a non-profit
organization associated with the University of San Francisco's
School of Education that is dedicated to nurturing writers through
the traditions, perspectives, and aesthetics of writers of color.
VONA was founded by Junot Diaz (author of Drown), Elmaz Abinader
(author of Children of the Roojme and In the Country of My Dreams)
and Executive Director Diem Jones. The impressive faculty has
included such acclaimed writers as Terry McMillan, Martin Espada,
and Willie Perdomo. To register and for more information visit
http://www.vona-voices.org.
*****
MULTIMEDIA PROJECT SEEKS YOUNG WOMEN OF COLOR
Deadline: January 14
Chica Luna seeks to identify, develop and support women of color in
entertainment media who hope to use popular media (radio, film,
etc.) for the improvement and progression of their communities.  The
F Word is Chica Luna's multimedia justice project for young women of
color age 16-25.  Beginning in February 2005, the project will build
the next generation of socially conscious film and radio producers
by training them in media literacy and promotion, leadership
development, and video and radio production.  If you are interested
in participating in this project, please fill out their application
and answer all questions [download application by visiting
www.marcelalandres.com and clicking on Newsletter].  Keep all
answers to 100 words or less.  Return application via fax, email or
postal mail to: Chica Luna Productions, 1690 Lexington Avenue, 2nd
floor, New York, NY 10029, Fax (212) 410- 3545, Email
fword@....
*****
VIVENUEVAYORK.COM ORGANIZA SU PRIMER CONCURSO POPULAR FOTOGRÁFICO
Fin de plazo: 28 de Febrero
"Turista Artista vs. Artista Turista" abierto a todas las personas
que han visitado Nueva York y en el que se repartirán 10 premios a
las fotografías más interesantes de la ciudad. Los 10 premios
consistirán en billetes de avión ida y vuelta, Noches de Hotel y
Tours Guiados en Nueva York. Además, las fotografías ganadoras serán
expuestas en una sala de arte en Nueva York donde se subastarán el
día de la inauguración repartiendo todos los beneficios obtenidos a
una entidad caritativa de ayuda a las personas sin hogar en Nueva
York. Sentiros libres de comunicad el concurso a todos vuestros
amigos que también hayan visitado Neva York. Por favor, visitad
http://www.vivenuevayork.com/concurso/ para obtener información
sobre las bases del concurso.
*****
BREAD LOAF WRITERS CONFERENCE
Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 1
General Application Deadline: March 19
Date: August 17 - 28
The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference is one of America's most valuable
literary institutions. The annual conference includes lectures,
craft classes, meetings with editors and agents, readings by faculty
and guests, and workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative
nonfiction.  Faculty members include Michael Collier, Amy Hempel,
and Patricia Hampl. For an application and complete guidelines visit
www.middlebury.edu/blwc/.
*****
YOUTH POETRY ANTHOLOGY NOW ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS
Deadline: May 15
Make Some Noise! II is an opportunity for young people to have their
work published in a 130 page anthology. Make Some Noise! II will
reward one poet with The Young Poets Award, to be chosen by our
panel members. The selected poet for this award will have their poem
featured on the back cover of the anthology and receive a $200
savings bond. Please visit: www.makesomenoise.net for guidelines.
Principals and teachers may request hard copies of the guidelines by
sending an email with your name, your school's name and address to:
mpublishing@....
*****
¿QUIERES ESCRIBIR TELENOVELAS?
"Taller Telemundo: Escritores" es un innovador programa educativo
creado con el fin de atraer, descubrir, inspirar y entrenar a la
próxima generación de escritores de telenovelas. Telemundo, en
colaboración con la Escuela de Entretenimiento y Tecnología de
Diseño (School of Entertainment and Design Technology) de Miami Dade
College, North Campus, ha ideado este dinámico programa para ofrecer
un plan de estudios que prepare a escritores hispanos en el popular
género de la telenovela. Los estudiantes que sean seleccionados para
participar en este programa atenderán a una instrucción durante 10
meses en Miami, Florida, en donde recibirán un curso comprensivo
sobre la estructura de la telenovela y una explicación a fondo sobre
la importancia del escritor en el proceso de producción, enfocado en
la realización de un producto dirigido a la tele audiencia hispana
de los Estados Unidos. Haz clic
http://www.telemundo.com/taller/index.html para comenzar el proceso
de inscripción.
*****
CUERPO MAGAZINE SEEKS BOOK REVIEWERS
Cuerpo is looking for book reviewers for our premier issue. We need
three more participants for our premier issue and seven reviewers
for our second issue. Time is of the essence, so interested
candidates should contact Cuerpo ASAP! We will provide books to
reviewers and ask that participants provide their own honest
opinions on the books, not an entertainment writing piece; we want
reviewers to share the good and bad. Participants will be paid for
their reviews. Interested candidates should forward any previous
writing samples to get a feel for their style and any questions to
editor@....
*****
SEARCHING FOR LATINA STORIES
Empowering Latinas Inc. and Yasmin Davidds Corporation is searching
for stories of Latinas' experiences in the following areas:

*  How Changing Your Perspective Changed Your Life
*  How a Mentor Changed Your Life
*  How You Discovered the Unwritten Rules of Life
*  How You Became the Hero of Your Own Life
*  Do You Believe You Have the Power to Change the World? If so,
How? and Why?
*  How You Have Authored Your Own Life
*  How You Discovered Your Faith
*  If life Is A Game, These Are Your Rules
*  How You Found Your Unstoppable Latina Spirit

The stories submitted should be 250 words or less.  If your story is
chosen, you will be contacted for an interview and your story will
be featured in one of Yasmin Davidds' upcoming books in 2005.
Please submit all stories to ydaviddsg@....  Please include your
name and contact information
*****
TERTULIA MAGAZINE LAUNCHES SIXTH ISSUE
Tertulia Magazine is pleased to announce the publication of its
sixth issue. The sixth issue of will include works by L. Arechiga
Danner, Francisco Aragón, and Yana Kaplun. Tertulia is published
online on a quarterly basis and will be available without charge on
their web site. They accept submissions by published and unpublished
writers, poets, artists, and photographers, as well as announcements
for conferences, workshops, classifieds, competitions, and other
classifieds. For more information and submission guidelines, visit
www.tertuliamagazine.com.
*****
SEEKING TECHNICAL SCRIPT WRITER
Producer is searching for a script writer with technical experience.
The client is a manufacturer of an aftermarket automotive product.
They would like to feature their product, technology and
manufacturing process in a 5-minute video. Please include your
information (resume/rates/references, etc.) in the body of the
emails, NO attachments. Only possible candidates will be contacted.
Reply to info@...
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why.
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on
Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
"We earn our living with what we do, but we make a life with what we
give."
--Chinese quote

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad™ Newsletter – December 2004: Newsletter Survey

Contents:
1. Saludos: Newsletter Survey
2. Author Spotlight: The Latinidad™ List for 2004
3. Upcoming Workshops: Latinas in Literature Panel
4. Writing Opportunities: Latino First Fiction Award
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
I created this newsletter, like my workshops and web site, to help
Latino writers get published. Based on the feedback I receive,
numerous writers have found agents, gotten publicity for their
writing, and even landed book deals as a result of reading
Latinidad™. In order to continue providing the best service possible
to the Latino literary community, I invite you to fill out a short
survey and share your thoughts on what works, what doesn't, and why.
In return, I will give a free half-hour consultation to the ten
writers who provide the most thorough and thoughtful responses. To
take the survey visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm, or
visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on Newsletter then Newsletter
Survey; the deadline is February 1, 2005.
	 As the holidays are upon us, I designed this special
abbreviated issue of Latinidad™ to fit your hectic schedule. Instead
of spotlighting one single author, I present The Latinidad™ List for
2004, which highlights noteworthy books published this year. Enjoy,
and give the gift of Latino literature this season.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Author Spotlight
The Latinidad™ List for 2004:

For Her: Border-Line Personalities: A New Generation of Latinas Dish
on Sex, Sass & Cultural Shifting by Robyn Moreno and Michelle
Herrera Mulligan
Funky collection of real-life stories by modern-day Latinas.

For Him: Cuba Classics: A Celebration of Vintage American
Automobiles by Christopher P. Baker
Photographic tribute to classic cars and Cuban culture.

For Teens: Sammy & Juliana in Hollywood by Benjamin Alire Saenz
The Last Picture Show meets American Graffiti.

For Kids: Brain Quest Hispanic America: 850 Questions and Answers
about People, Places, Culture & Language by George Ochoa
Learn about everything Latino, from El Cid to Selena.

For Art Lovers: Retratos: 2000 Years of Latin American Portraits by
Marion Oettinger, Jr.
The companion book to the first comprehensive exhibition of Latin
American portraits in the U.S.

For Travelers: Rio de Janeiro by Ruy Castro
An introduction to the city of Carnival for the literate armchair
traveler.

For Foodies: Douglas Rodriguez's Latin Flavors on the Grill by
Douglas Rodriguez
100 delicioso recipes from the creator of Nuevo Latino cuisine.

For History Buffs: Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest by Matthew
Restall
Debunks the idea of the superhuman European and the subhuman Indian.

Click here for more Author Spotlights:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

3. Upcoming Workshops
WHAT: Latinas in Literature Panel, a free event sponsored by the
Rockefeller Brothers Fund and the Association of Hispanic Arts in
conjunction with El Puente and the Brooklyn Arts Council.

WHO: Authors Lydia Cortes (Lust for Lust), Stephanie Elizondo Griest
(Around the Bloc), Sofia Quintero a.k.a Black Artemis (Explicit
Content), Nelly Rosario (Song of the Water Saints). Panel moderated
by Editorial Consultant Marcela Landres.

WHEN: 6:30p.m., Thursday, December 9, 2004

WHERE: El Puente, 211 South Fourth Street, Brooklyn, NY

QUESTIONS?: Desi Moreno-Penson, desi@..., (718) 409-1265
x12

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

4. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on
Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
LATINO FIRST FICTION AWARD
Deadline: December 15
The Miguel Marmol Prize offers an advance of $1000 and publication
by Curbstone Press for a first book of fiction by a Latino writer
that reflects a respect for intercultural understanding, human
rights, and civil liberties. Writers who have not previously
published a book of fiction are eligible. Ilan Stavans will judge.
For guidelines and more information, visit www.curbstone.org.
*****
BOOK PROMOTION 101
Date: Saturday, January 22, 2005
Registration Deadline: December 20, 2004
BOOK PROMOTION 101 is exclusively for authors of commercially
published trade books. (No self-published or print-on-demand.)
Attendees at the last New York workshop included authors from Farrar
Straus & Giroux, Miramax, Riverhead, Simon & Schuster and Ten Speed
Press. Workshop leader Bella Stander and industry guests provide
real-world advice and tips in an intimate, lively and congenial
forum. Class size is small (8 maximum) to enable interaction and
personalized attention. Participants receive an original 25-page
booklet containing a wealth of detailed information--from an
explanation of publicity jargon to a tip sheet on satellite
interviews. To register and for more information, visit
www.bookpromotion101.com.
*****
RUDOLFO AND PATRICIA ANAYA PREMIO ATZLÁN LITERARY PRIZE
Deadline: December 31, 2004
The Rudolfo and Patricia Anaya Premio Atzlán Literary Prize is a
national literary prize, established to encourage and reward
emerging Chicana and Chicano authors. A prize of $1,000 is given for
a work of fiction published in the 2004 calendar year. Authors who
have published no more than two books are eligible for the prize.
For guidelines and more information, visit http://elibrary.unm.edu.
Questions may be directed to Teresa Marquez at tmarquez@...,
(505) 277-0582 or Dina Ma'ayan at dinam@... , (505) 277-7197 at
the University of New Mexico General Library.
*****
NEW DISCOVERY POETRY AWARD
Deadline: January 1, 2005.
The Writer and Rosebud magazine are looking for previously
unpublished poetry. Whether you are a well-known poet or a beginner,
this is your chance to get your poem published. The winning entries
and runners-up will be published in Rosebud magazine and featured on
The Writer web site. The winning entry, along with judge's comments,
will appear in The Writer magazine. All entries will be considered
for paid publication in Rosebud. To enter and for more information,
visit http://www.writermag.com/wrt/default.aspx?c=a&id=1728.
*****
VIVENUEVAYORK.COM
Recientemente hemos puesto en marcha el proyecto vivenuevayork.com
vivenuevayork.com es una página web dedicada a la comunidad española
y latina que visita o vive actualmente en Nueva York. Nuestro
contenido está enfocado a como sacar el máximo partido a la ciudad
de la misma forma que lo haría un neoyorquino. Para los españoles y
latinos que vivimos en Nueva York, vivenuevayork.com pretende ser el
punto de encuentro e información de forma que la vida en Nueva York
sea más fácil y a la vez más enriquecedora al poder compartir
conocimiento, ideas, sugerencias y experiencias fácilmente entre
nosotros. Vivenuevayork.com ofrece una estructura abierta. Hemos
diseñado nuestras páginas de forma que todo el mundo tenga la
posibilidad de opinar, compartir y colaborar creando la agilidad que
el momento demanda. La idea de dirigirnos a la comunidad de
escritores, es para invitaros a visitar nuestras páginas y de esta
forma que nos contactéis con vuestras ideas y sugerencias de como
vivenuevayork.com os puede ayudar para dar a conocer vuestro trabajo
creativo, ya sea aportando relatos, noticias, documentales o
simplemente vuestra promoción dentro de la comunidad neoyorquina.
Esperamos que nuestro trabajo sea de vuestro agrado y utilidad.
colaboracion@..., http://www.vivenuevayork.com
*****
THE BILINGUAL SOUL SEEKS ESSAYS
Are you bilingual and/or bicultural? Have you ever felt that you
have two entirely different personalities, one in one language or
culture, and one in the other? Maybe you are animated and a little
crazy in one language, pensive and introspective in another, perhaps
even businesslike in a third. You may find that you have different
relationships with the people around you or a different body
language depending on the language you're using. You may change from
one to the other consciously or unconsciously; your two languages or
cultures may be blended together or they may be clearly separate.
Perhaps you even feel like you have two different souls, each rooted
in a different language or culture. The editors of a new anthology,
The Bilingual Soul, are seeking essays on this "split personality"
that we feel when we move between one language or culture and
another. If you have experienced this sense of a dual personality or
dual soul related to being bilingual and/or bicultural, and would
like to explore this issue more in a personal essay, please contact
Ruth Kunstadter at kunstadter@... or William I. Lee at
williamilee@....
*****
LITERAL, LATIN AMERICAN VOICES
Literal, Latin American Voices today offers its pages with a dual
purpose: as a forum where the most important Latin American creative
expressions converge and as a vehicle for the expression of new
voices. Thus Literal provides a medium for the critique and
diffusion of the Latin American literature and art, recognizing its
potential strength as a point of departure for understanding that
the broad cultural universe is not overshadowed by any single
language, but is bathed in the light of a unified spirit. For
guidelines and a free year subscription visit:
www.literalmagazine.com.
*****
CANDELA MAGAZINE SEEKS WRITERS
Candela Magazine, the only online magazine about Latino life in
Boston, is looking for freelance writers to join us in celebrating
the Latino roots while enhancing their writer's portfolio.
Candidates must be self-starters with a strong knowledge of Boston's
Latino culture or willingness to learn more about the region and its
community. Writing experience is a plus, though not required.
Students may work with us on an internship basis. For more
information about Candela, visit
http://www.candelaboston.com/about.htm; for specific contributor's
guidelines, visit: http://www.candelaboston.com/contributors.htm.
*****
SEEKING PLAYWRIGHTS
The Songs from Coconut Hill-Latino Playwrights Festival is looking
for new playwrights to submit their work. The festival takes place
in March 2005 at Teatro La Tea. Playwrights can submit full
length/one-acts or one person shows to Caicedo Productions, Songs
from Coconut Hill Festival, 7304 5th Avenue, PMB 184, Brooklyn, NY
11209.
*****
MONEYPANTS SEEKS STORIES
Have a story about how money has affected your life? MoneyPants is
looking for interesting essays/articles/stories about money. To see
examples, please refer to the true confessions section of our site:
www.moneypants.com.
1. 1500 words max--some exceptions may be made.
2. Submissions by email only. And NO ATTACHMENTS, please. Paste your
piece into the body of the email.
3. Please include your name, contact information, and any previous
publishing history. If accepted, your piece will be featured on the
front page of MoneyPants for a week, then included in the archives.
4. If your piece is accepted, we will proofread and copyedit it. We
may make minor punctuation and spelling fixes. If anything further
than that, we will run changes by you first for your final approval.
5. By submitting a piece, you grant us your consent to publish it on
MoneyPants, free of compensation. You will retain all rights, and
are free to publish the piece anywhere else.
6. By submitting a piece, you are acknowledging that you solely own
the copyright.
7. You can use an alias as we want HONEST stories about money.
Please send your submission to write4moneypants@.... We will
respond to every submission.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why.
*****

"The best way to make your dreams come true is waking up"—Paul Valery

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad™ Newsletter – November 2004: Short Stories

Contents:
1. Saludos: Short Stories
2. Editor Q&A: Chris Fischbach, Coffee House Press
3. Recommendations: Zoetrope: All-Story Magazine
4. Author Spotlight: Lolita Hernandez
5. Upcoming Workshops: How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal
6. Writing Opportunities: Short Fiction Contest for Unpublished
Writers
*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
1. Saludos
Large publishers prefer novels over short story collections, leaving
small publishers to discover and nurture those writers who have
mastered the short form but aren't quite ready to make the leap to
novels. If you are one of those writers, don't fret. Submit your
stories to magazines, journals, and contests in order to establish
or raise your profile in the literary community. The more short
pieces you publish, and the more awards you garner, the wider the
pool of agents and editors you will attract once you are ready to
submit a novel. To get you started, a reputable small publisher is
profiled in Editor Q&A; an eloquent debut collection is reviewed in
Author Spotlight; and numerous short story contests are featured in
Writing Opportunities.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Editor Q&A
Chris Fischbach is a Senior Editor at Coffee House Press, where he
has worked for ten years. He is also the Assistant Director of the
annual Twin Cities Book Festival. Coffee House Press is an award-
winning, nonprofit literary publisher known for publishing fine
writers.

Why is Coffee House Press a great home for Latino writers?
Coffee House Press is well-known and has an excellent reputation for
publishing multicultural writers/writers of color, including Victor
Hernandez Cruz and Sandra Benitez. This reputation will help writers
get attention in the larger publishing world.

Which Latino authors has Coffee House Press published?
Victor Hernandez Cruz and Sandra Benitez.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
Fiction and creative nonfiction. We are not, however, currently
accepting poetry manuscripts.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
Do research into the kinds of book we publish and see if their book
fits well with those books. Also, be sure to research the proper way
to submit manuscripts to publishers. Write a short and concise cover
letter and be sure that your manuscript and materials are presented
in the most professional way possible.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Become a part of a community of other writers.

Send submissions to: Chris Fischbach, Senior Editor, Coffee House
Press, 27 North 4th St., Ste. 400, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Coffee House Press web site: http://www.coffeehousepress.org/
More Editor Q&A: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Recommendations
Zoetrope: All-Story is a quarterly literary publication founded by
Francis Ford Coppola which concentrates on short fiction. It was
selected as a finalist for the 2004 National Magazine Award for
Fiction. In addition, many individual stories published by the
magazine have been honored with prestigious awards, including the O.
Henry Prize for "Sphinxes" by Timothy Crouse and "Refuge in London"
by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala; a Pushcart Prize for Russell Working's "The
Irish Martyr"; and the PEN David T.K. Wong Prize for Short Fiction
for Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "Half of a Yellow Sun." They are
currently seeking never-before-published writers. Visit their web
site, http://www.all-story.com/, for submission guidelines.

Zoetrope: All-Story web site: http://www.all-story.com/
Offer a recommendation: marcelalandres@...
More recommendations: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
Lolita Hernandez's Autopsy of an Engine is a collection of short
stories influenced by voices as diverse as Jorge Luis Borges, Karl
Marx, and Trinidadian folk songs. Her style is inventive, with one
story told in the form of a long voicemail message, another from the
perspective of a slumbering woman trapped between a dream and
reality. Hernandez examines the interconnections between the
ethereal and the gritty, rhythm and soul, and work as both refuge
and prison. Lauded by Ruth Reichl as "a story you can't forget from
a voice that has not been heard before," Autopsy of an Engine is a
welcome introduction to a writer who is sure to be heard from again.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
Many authors inspire me. It's difficult for me to put my finger on
one in particular. I can say that Julio Cortazar, Jorge Luis Borges,
Nadine Gordimer, Kafka, John Steinbeck, Ernest Hemingway, and Robert
Antoni have greatly influenced my writing. But then again, so have
Gloria Naylor, Jamaica Kincaid, Isabel Allende, V.S. Naipaul, Andre
Malreaux, and Alejo Carpentier. All of them are my literary family.

Why do you love to write short stories?
I love short stories because they provide more space than poetry but
not as much space as the novel, so you can combine poetry and story.
I still have a novel in me. Maybe two.

How did you meet your agent?
I don't have an agent. A friend who knows my work urged me to send
my manuscript to Coffee House Press. I did. Someone who works there
is familiar with my work and likely encouraged CHP to read the
manuscript. As I understand it, that person had no role in the
decision to publish the manuscript. After about a year, I heard from
CHP that they wanted to publish my work. Several months went by and
CHP contacted me with a date for publication. I read the contract;
it seemed reasonable so I signed it and then the whirlwind of
activities began. So far, CHP has worked diligently on my behalf
every step of the process, from editing, to book and cover design to
promotion. CHP treats authors with dignity and respect; this press
is nurturing and extremely helpful. CHP has done more for me than I
ever expected. I don't know if every medium or small press would be
so wonderful but CHP has a good reputation, and the folks there are
dedicated to publishing good literature, not raking in big bucks. I
don't expect to rake in big bucks either. If I was going for the big
bucks, I'd find an agent and go for the jugular. Truth is my CHP
book tour is wonderful, fun and instructive. It's very real. I love
it. I'm going a few places, including the Twin Cities and Miami. I
would urge caution with most presses, but CHP has proven to be
honorable.

What is your writing ritual?
When I am in the middle of a project I tend to write in the evening
during the week and in the morning on the weekends. I still work a
40 hour week. Otherwise, I journal as I am able.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
When the time is right, things will happen. Be prepared with good
work. Be yourself. Immerse yourself in life.

Read excerpt: http://www.coffeehousepress.org/autopsyofanengine.asp
Obtain Autopsy of an Engine:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1566891612/marcelalandre-
20/104-7718603-5847146?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
More Author Spotlights: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
How to Write a Knockout Book Proposal

WHAT: Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is
unpublishable, but because the writer failed to provide agents and
editors with all the information they need. This is especially true
for fiction proposals. Topics discussed include: the true purpose of
a proposal; why 90% of proposals are rejected based on the cover
letter alone; and the three most common mistakes writers make when
preparing proposals.

WHEN: 6:45p.m.-9:30p.m., Tuesday, November 9, 2004

WHERE: The Learning Annex, New York City, NY

REGISTER: Visit http://www.learningannex.com/ and search for "427DNY"

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
For more calls for submissions, contests, conferences, etc., visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
SHORT FICTION CONTEST FOR UNPUBLISHED WRITERS
Deadline: December 15
Boulevard magazine offers a prize of $1500 and publication for a
short story by a writer who has not published a book with a
nationally distributed publisher. All submissions will be considered
for publication. For guidelines visit
http://www.boulevardmagazine.com/.
*****
THE WRITER'S DIGEST 5TH ANNUAL SHORT SHORT STORY COMPETITION
Deadline: December 1
Writer's Digest is looking for fiction that's bold, brilliant, but
brief. Send them your best in 1,500 words or fewer. First Place:
$3,000. For entry form and more information visit
http://www.writersdigest.com/contests/short_story.asp.
*****
JOHN STEINBACK SHORT STORY AWARD
Deadline: December 1
A prize of $1000 and publication in Reed Magazine is given annually
for an unpublished short story. John L'Heureux will judge. For
guidelines visit http://www2.sjsu.edu/reed/.
*****
MERIDIAN SHORT STORY PRIZES
Deadline: December 20
A prize of $1000 and publication in Meridian's Spring/Summer issue
are given annually for an unpublished short story. For guidelines
visit www.readmeridian.com.
*****
H.E. FRANCIS SHORT STORY COMPETITION
Deadline: December 31
A prize of $1000 is given annually for an original, unpublished
short story by the Ruth Hindman Foundation. For guidelines visit
http://www.uah.edu/colleges/liberal/english/whatnewcontest.html.
*****
OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY SHORT STORY PRIZE
Deadline: November 30
A prize of $1500 and publication by Ohio State University Press is
given annually for a collection of short fiction. For guidelines
visit http://www.ohiostatepress.org/.
*****
GLIMMER TRAIN SHORT STORY CONTEST
Deadline: January 15
A prize of $2000 and publication in Glimmer Train Stories is given
twice yearly for a short story. Submit a short story of any length
and theme. For guidelines visit www.glimmertrainpress.com.
*****
LITERAL LATTE SHORT STORY AWARD
Deadline: January 15
A prize of $1000 and publication in Literal Latte is given annually
for an unpublished short story. All entries are considered for
publication. For guidelines visit www.literal-latte.com.
*****
SEEKING STORIES ABOUT RACISM WITHIN LATINO COMMUNITY
Grisel (Y. Acosta) is compiling a series of stories, opinions, and
facts relating to black and white Latinos in the U.S., with the main
focus being on how black Latinos are discriminated against.  She is
interested in stories, anecdotes, opinions from black Latinos, of
course, but also from people of other backgrounds who have had some
sort of encounter with this topic.  She strongly encourages white
Latinos, African Americans and any other ethnic group to
participate. The main goal: to create a document that will record
the near past and current black Latino experience in the U.S. Anyone
interested in sharing his/her story, or anyone interested in being
part of this project, or anyone interested in general should write
to Grisel at this email address: dsegotism@....
*****
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT
Here is a brand new concept in marketing books that every writer,
published or unpublished, should check out. Essentially, it's a
trailer for a book, in this case for Marc Acito's HOW I PAID FOR
COLLEGE. It's so clever, one wonders why it has never been done
before. Click here to view it:
http://www.vidlit.com/hipfc/hipfc.html.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleague. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why. *****

"True eloquence consists in saying all that should be said, and that
only."
--La Rochefoucauld

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad™ Newsletter – October 2004: Children's Books

Contents:
1. Saludos: Children's Books
2. Editor Q&A: Executive Editor Louise E. May
3. Recommendations: SCBWI
4. Author Spotlight: Mayra L. Dole (with bonus article)
5. Upcoming Workshops: Latino Writers: Publishing Your Work
6. Writing Opportunities: HarperCollins Seeks Latino Children's Books

*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************

1. Saludos
This month's issue of Latinidad™ is dedicated to the many writers
who have come to me for advice about children's book publishing. If
there's one lesson to be learned from this issue of Latinidad™, let
it be this: editors publish either adult or children's books, not
both. When you submit your proposal, be sure to send it to an editor
who actually acquires children's books. Highlights from this issue
include: an interview with a children's books editor in Editor Q&A;
an excerpt from an informative article about how to publish a
multicultural children's book in Author Spotlight [to read the
entire article, visit www.marcelalandres.com, click on Newsletter,
scroll down to Author Spotlight, and download file]; and a call for
submissions for Latino children's books from HarperCollins in
Writing Opportunities.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Editor Q&A
Louise E. May is Executive Editor at Lee & Low Books, one of the few
publishing companies founded and owned by people of color. She has
worked with many award-winning writers and illustrators, including
David Diaz, Javaka Steptoe, R. Gregory Christie, Robert Casilla,
Lynne Barasch, Marcia Vaughan, Joseph Bruchac, and William Miller,
among others. She helped launch Lee & Low's annual New Voices Award
for first-time writers of color as well as Bebop Books, Lee & Low's
educational imprint, which publishes multicultural books exclusively
for the beginning reading market. Below she reveals why Lee & Low is
a distinctive publisher.

Why is Lee & Low a great home for Latino writers?
Lee & Low specializes in multicultural children's literature. Our
goal is to produce books that children of color can identify with
and that all children can enjoy. We work closely with authors and
artists to ensure that the books we publish are culturally sensitive
and factually accurate. Since we began publishing nearly 12 years
ago, our books have won numerous awards and honors, including two
2004 Pura Belpré Illustrator Award Honors for artists David Diaz
(The Pot That Juan Built) and Robert Casilla (First Day in Grapes).
	 As a small independent publisher owned by people of color,
our company makes a special effort to reach out to all communities
of color and to finding new talent there. Since we began publishing
in 1993, our company has published more than 70 authors and artists
who are new to the field of children's books. In 2000, we
established the annual New Voices Award, given to a writer of color
for his or her first picture book.
	 Since 1994, publishing books in Spanish has been an integral
part of our publishing program. In 2004 we began publishing books in
English/Spanish bilingual editions. We strongly feel this is a
growing area for us.
	 In addition to our Lee & Low trade list, in 2000 we
established an educational imprint, Bebop Books. This is another
venue where we look to work with new as well as established writers
and artists of color. Books published under this imprint are
developed specifically for children just learning to read, and all
books are published simultaneously in separate English and Spanish
editions. In this way, we make our multicultural books available to
the growing Latino market at a time when children are developing
their reading skills.

Which Latino authors has Lee & Low Books published?
Lee & Low has published established as well as first time Latino
writers and artists. Writers include Pat Mora, Omar S. Castañeda, D.
H. Figueredo, and Tony Medina. Artists include David Diaz, Robert
Casilla, Felipe Davalos, Pablo Torrecilla, Enrique O. Sanchez, and
Paula Barragán. Writer/illustrators include Lulu Delacre, Hector
Viveros Lee, and Loretta Lopez.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
The primary focus of our publishing program has been picture books.
Starting in fall 2004, we have begun publishing works for middle
grade readers as well. At both age groups, genres include fiction
(realistic fiction and historical fiction) and nonfiction (poetry,
biography, science, and other nonfiction topics as long as they have
a multicultural focus). We are particularly interested in character
driven stories; that is, we look for projects in which people play a
strong role in the story. This applies to both fiction and
nonfiction. We prefer that a child be the main character, especially
in fiction, although stories about adults or stories that cover the
entire life of a person are also of interest. We are looking for
unique stories about people/topics that have not been published
before for children. We do not publish folklore or animal stories.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
A manuscript that will catch our attention is one that is well-
written and has believable characters, a compelling plot, and a
satisfying ending. The manuscript should be professionally presented
and fit within our multicultural focus. Writers are encouraged to
view our Web site to learn about the kinds of books we publish and
our editorial focus so they can judge if their manuscript will fit
our list. Specific writer/submission guidelines can be found at
www.leeandlow.com/editorial/wguide.html.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Writers should research the topic of their story thoroughly and
study the competition to see if other books are published on the
subject. If it is a popular topic, then a writer should make sure
his or her approach is unique, or it will fail to garner interest.
Writers should also research publishers and target their submissions
to appropriate companies that publish works similar to theirs. It is
also helpful to learn about the children's book publishing industry
by joining related organizations, such as the Society of Children's
Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

Send submissions to: Submissions Editor, Lee & Low Books, 95 Madison
Avenue, New York, NY 10016. For submission guidelines visit
www.leeandlow.com/editorial/wguide.html.
Lee & Low web site: http://www.leeandlow.com/
More Editor Q&A: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm


3. Recommendations
The Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators offers a
variety of services that no serious writer or illustrator can do
without. A sampling of these services include: regional newsletters,
most notably a free online newsletter based in Mexico, which feature
announcements about local events; regional conferences and classes
in locations such as Arizona and Texas (see Writing Opportunities
for examples); and a free manuscript and illustration exchange
program which allows members to obtain feedback on their works-in-
progress. The SCBWI also sponsors awards and grants, including the
Sue Alexander Most Promising New Work Award for unpublished
manuscripts, and the Kimberly Colen Memorial Grant for unpublished
authors and illustrators.

Web site: http://www.scbwi.org/
Offer a recommendation: marcelalandres@...
More recommendations: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
Mayra L. Dole is the author of Birthday in the Barrio/Cumpleanos en
el Barrio, a follow-up to her critically-acclaimed debut Drum,
Chavi, Drum!/¡Toca, Chavi, Toca! Birthday in the Barrio follows the
adventures of Chavi, a plucky Cubanita from Miami, and her best
friend Rosario. Rosario's dad is out of work and can't afford to
give her sister, Lazarita, the quinces of her dream. Chavi and
Rosario cleverly conspire to enlist their entire neighborhood in
organizing a benefit for a homeless shelter that, not
coincidentally, is on the same day as Lazarita's birthday. Like
Chavi, Dole's energy and enthusiasm are infectious, and she clearly
relishes helping others, as evidenced by the many practical tips she
offers in the interview below, as well as in her useful and
instructive article, "Writing Children's Multicultural Books in 15
Easy Steps."

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
The day I found Zoey Valdez's "I Gave You All I Had" I lost myself
in a melodramatic world worthy of a script for the wildest
Telenovela in history.  Zoey's genius and brilliant metaphors are
mind-boggling.  Her writing reminds me of growing up in my old
barrio, "Home," where exclamations, exaggerations, melodrama, slang,
colorful obscenities, morbid fears of strange things such as dying
of una embolia from swimming after eating a snack, rule.  Home
inspires me to write children's books, adult novels y poesia negra.
Home can sometimes be as simple as everyday dichos such as: "¿Que te
pica?" "¡Le zumba el mango, chica!" or, "¡Si cocinas como caminas me
lo como todo!"  At a reckless speed, Zoey zooms me Home, that bouncy
place deep in my marrow, brimming with passion, lucidity and
locura.

Why do you love to write children's books?
I grew up a gutsy Cubanita girl in a lower working-class boy barrio
without niñas to play with.  When I recall how mercilessly I bossed
around my best friend, Antolinsito, and the fun I experienced by not
having a typical girlie-girl upbringing, I become fired-up to write
my bilingual barrio stories.  My picture books have Latino kids
expressing their true personalities without being gender-molded.  I
love writing in order to motivate children to think creatively while
they have a blast solving challenges.  Kids in my picture books and
middle grade novels are little rebels that refuse to accept defeat,
hence teaching adults what's right and not the other way around.
Writing picture books became the first step in helping me develop
skills for writing middle-grade, YA and adult novels.  Not only is
writing for kids fun and gratifying, but in having a voice and being
heard by children, an author can help change the world for the
better, because I strongly believe that children are our only hope.

How did you meet your agent?
I met my agent, Janell Walden Agyeman, through word of mouth.  I
pleaded with everyone I knew to ask anyone they met if they knew of
an agent.  A friend asked a library patron and voila, the rest is
history.  Don't be shy to ask mail carriers, teachers, grocery store
clerks, bank tellers, librarians, neighbors, etc.  When I lived in
Boston, some taxi drivers, street cleaners and hot-dog vendors had
PhD's and some were published authors or knew someone who had an
agent.  Many agents are famished for Latino writers that have never
been published and prefer cover letters with enclosed manuscripts.
Other agents prefer snail mail queries and already published
writers, particularly those who've studied the craft in workshops.
(Mentioning that you took Marcela Landres' workshops is a huge plus,
since she's so highly respected in the literary field.)  You can
find agents through books and search engines.  Email and call them
(leave a brief message stating who you are and that you're sending
them a snail mail cover letter, synopses of your work and
manuscript).  Let your voice be heard but don't expect a response.
Persevere.  Agents take up to six months to get back to you,
depending on how passionate they are about your work.  Therefore,
the more agents you contact, the better your chance of finding one.

What is your writing ritual?
As a teen I wrote whenever inspired and filled notebooks with short
stories and poetry, written in broken English and Spanglish.  Eight
years ago, I started writing my first adult novel (hasn't been
published yet) by longhand on four notebooks (1,800 pages, now a YA
novel, down to 200 pages) during work breaks on my three jobs.
After I purchased my first computer, 6 years ago, I quit longhand.
I go to sleep thinking hard about whatever story I'm writing and
awaken at 4 am bursting with ideas and dialogue.  I unhook my phone,
sit to write around 4:01 am, eat breakfast and lunch while writing,
and don't stop till around 4 pm.  I write to live, so discipline is
a must.  I let it pour and stop when I must get to work on revising
my YA novels, middle grade novels or picture books with critiques
from executive editors.  For me, writing is a difficult and
extraordinarily challenging full-time job (I also write adult
articles and poetry for magazines and newsletters).  The submitting
process and waiting for rejection or approval -- as you all know --
is grueling, but it's work that I love, so I do my best to stay
focused and try to write exciting, plot-driven stories that I hope
will bring about change, engage/entertain others and myself.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Write!  Write!  Write!  Write at every spare moment.  If you have
zero time to write, for a full year stop reading for pleasure and
replace it with writing.  If you must read, read new award-winning
books purely as study guides.  One page per day equals 365 pages per
year (8 picture books, 2 children's novels or one adult novel).  I
grew up in a lower working-class semi-illiterate family/barrio that
didn't value education and I never read a single book (except school
texts), until age 18.  Recently, I started "reading" (listening to
books on tapes) in order to master valuable skills from the pros.
Although my fresh ideas come from never having been exposed to
reading in the past, I do understand that reading benefits writers
tremendously and gives us an edge in this cutthroat publishing
world.  (I would have been published much earlier if I had read and
learned better English, grammar, and writing skills.)  In writing
for children, I'd advise you not to preach or teach lessons, but,
rather discreetly, have your work ask challenging questions.  Write
important, plot-driven stories that have never been told.  If years
pass and you aren't landing a contract, put your work aside and
write what the market wants.  (Go to amazon.com and find out how
many books have been written on the subject you have chosen.)  Once
your foot is in the door, you have a better chance to publish what
you wish.  Before submitting, give your manuscript to ten people for
harsh criticism and on the spot comments.  Learn to edit (the most
important skill I've learned) or hire a professional editor with
credentials if you have the means. (Be careful, though: I hear that
many online "editors" are rip-off artists.)  Rewrite, revise, rework
and reedit so that you submit impeccable work.  Go through the
Writer's Market and Google.  Find 50 names and addresses of presses
that publish your type of books.  Read publishers' Home Pages,
familiarize yourself with the books they publish and their
Submission Guidelines.  For snail mail cover letters, state on the
envelope in bold letters LATINO WRITER.  Most editors loathe email
queries, but a few welcome and prefer them.  Under SUBJECT heading,
write: "Latino Writer" or something more seductive, such as the type
of stories they're looking for that you've written.  In your email
cover letter or query, introduce yourself professionally in two
short sentences and attach a two-sentence synopsis of your
manuscript.  Make acquisitions editors pant and want to crawl on
walls to get to your work before anyone else does.  When submitting
by snail mail, send your manuscript with SASE and a cover letter.
This eliminates much wasted time if they wish to ask you to submit
your story to read.  If your writing entices them, they will contact
you.  Persevere.  When they respond and ask for your manuscript,
only write one sentence back, thanking them.  Never bother or burden
editors, they are the busiest people on Earth.

BONUS ARTICLE: WRITING CHILDREN'S MULTICULTURAL BOOKS IN 15 EASY
STEPS
Copyright 2004 by Mayra L. Dole. All rights reserved.

My Personal Success Story

Here is how I -- a person raised lower-working class, who grew up in
a Cuban barrio without much of a formal education -- published the
critically-acclaimed bilingual picture book that's quickly becoming
a Latino classic, "Drum, Chavi, Drum!/Toca, Chavi, Toca!" and just
released my second multicultural picture book, "Birthday in the
Barrio/Cumpleanos en el Barrio."  Is it luck?  NO WAY!  It is
extremely hard work.

If you have passion for the written word, a willingness to perfect
your writing skills, and a faaabulous story that's never been told,
you're on your way to getting published.  All you need is to write a
mesmerizing story, with a powerful beginning, brilliant middle, and
an explosive end.

LET'S START!

1) Write freely about something you're insanely crazy about that is
very YOU -- something you know well -- which is exciting/fun but
also has its tender moments and will help children think
critically.  Think about what you'd like to change in society/the
world. Search in your blood and bones for a semi-autobiographical
story/event, set in your own community, and mix it with something
from your culture that kids will love. [To read the rest of this
informative article, visit www.marcelalandres.com, click on
Newsletter, scroll down to Author Spotlight, and download file.]

Read reviews and author bio: www.mayraldole.com
Obtain Birthday in the Barrio:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0892391944/marcelalandre-
20/002-7184168-8844001?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
More Author Spotlights: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
Latino Writers: Publishing Your Work Workshop

WHAT: Finding the right publisher is difficult for any writer, but
Latinos face unique challenges--and opportunities. Topics discussed
include: the significance of Latinos to mainstream publishers;
writing in Spanish vs. English; dealing with the label of "Latino
Writer;" how to find a good agent and editor in a non-Latino
industry; overcoming cultural and social barriers, especially for
Latinas; and the most important thing you can do to ensure the
future success of Latino publishing.

WHEN: 8:45a.m.-10:15a.m., Friday, October 8, 2004

WHERE: NALAC Fifth National Conference, Downtown Marriot, Kansas
City, Missouri

REGISTER: http://www.nalac.org, direct queries to info@... or
210-432-3982

Invite me to speak for your organization:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
List of upcoming workshops: http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
For more calls for submissions, contests, conferences, etc., visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
HARPERCOLLINS SEEKS LATINO CHILDREN'S BOOKS
Rosemary Brosnan has been publishing children's books by Latino/a
authors for many years, and she is interested in finding new
novelists for the children's Rayo imprint at HarperCollins. She
seeks outstanding fiction for middle-graders (ages 8 to 12) and
young adults (ages 12 up), in English, that features Latino and
Latina protagonists. Please send manuscripts, with a self-addressed,
stamped envelope, to: Rosemary Brosnan, Executive Editor,
HarperCollins Publishers/Rayo, 1350 Avenue of the Americas, New
York, NY 10019.
*****
AUSTIN SCBWI CHAPTER FALL CONFERENCE: "FOLLOW ME"
Date: October 16,  9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 12
Old Pecan Street Café, 310 East 6th Street Austin, Texas
Confirmed speakers include Judy O'Malley, Executive Editor,
Charlesbridge; Sarah Ketchersid, Editor, Candlewick; Mark Siegel,
Art Director, Simon and Schuster; and Rosemary Stimola, Literary
Agent, Stimola Literary Studio. To register and for more information
visit www.austinscbwi.com.
*****
ARIZONA SCBWI CHAPTER MEETING: "THE EXPERIENCE OF GETTING PUBLISHED
BY A SMALL PRESS"
Date: October 23, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 15
Changing Hands Bookstore, Tempe, AZ, with Author Annie Weissman.
Members: $5; Nonmembers: $7. To register email Michelle Parker-Rock
at rascbwiaz@...
*****
NEW VOICES AWARD FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS
Deadline: October 31, 2004
Lee & Low Books, the award-winning publisher of multicultural books
for children, is pleased to announce the fifth annual New Voices
Award. The Award will be given for a children's picture book story
by a writer of color. The Award winner will receive a cash grant of
$1,000 and our standard publication contract, including their
standard advance and royalties. An Honor Award winner will receive a
cash grant of $500. For guidelines and more information visit
http://www.leeandlow.com/editorial/voices.html.
*****
TV SHOW SEEKS LATINO BOOKS
Edna Campos Gravenhorst will be reviewing books by Latino writers to
feature in a three minute segment once a month on Enterate, a
Spanish variety show hosted by Gilberto Pinela. The book has to be
complete and in paperback or hardback; self published writers will
get special consideration. Please mail books to: Edna Campos
Gravenhorst, 3150 Ohio Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118. Be sure to
include contact information so we can inform you if your book gets
chosen to be featured on the show.  We will only accept books that
are sent to us at no charge and we will not be returning books. The
books will be used as reading material by Gilberto Pinela when he
reads to students in city schools to expose minority students to
Latino authors. The books will then be donated to a Hispanic
organization in St. Louis. The show will be expanding into other
markets across the country, and there is a commitment for the show
to run for an entire year starting October 2004. We are looking
forward to promoting your books.
*****
PLUME SEEKS LATINA FICTION
Plume, an imprint of the Penguin Group, has a long tradition of
publishing great works about and by strong women, including the
novels of Julia Alvarez, Toni Morrison, Dorothy Allison, and Joyce
Carol Oates. We are always looking for new talent and are especially
interested in Latina fiction. We are seeking both new and previously
published authors who have a completed manuscript, especially
women's fiction, both commercial and literary. Other categories that
we will consider are literary memoirs and erotic fiction. If you
would like to have your manuscript considered, please email a one
page synopsis, sample chapter, and a short author's bio to Emily
Haynes at emily.haynes@.... You can also send a
query letter by mail to her attention at: Plume, 375 Hudson St., New
York, NY 10014. She will be in touch with you if she wants to
request the manuscript. Please do not send short stories,
screenplays, or poetry as we are not looking for work in these
areas. You can check out the Penguin Group website at
www.penguingroup.com.
*****
PUBLICITY & SPEAKERS BUREAU FOR ARTISTS AND WRITERS
Margaret Porter Troupe is the founder of a Publicity & Speakers
Bureau which arranges press coverage and interviews for emerging and
established authors and artists. As a complement to that, she has a
literary & visual arts salon in Harlem where she hosts book signings
and mounts art exhibits.  At these events distinguished authors read
their works and meet their audience in an intimate setting.  She
also exhibits paintings and other art by visual artists.  To date,
her guests have included Ishmael Reed (book signing), Mildred Howard
(art exhibit), and Hugh Masekela (book signing). Upcoming is a book
signing and art exhibit with Amiri Baraka on 12/12/04. Writers and
artists interested in working with Margaret can contact her at 212-
749-7771 or mptroupe@....
*****
WANT A JOB IN BOOK PUBLISHING?
The Association of American Publishers (AAP) has launched a national
campaign to increase diversity in every corner of the book
publishing industry.  The centerpiece of the Book Yourself a Career
campaign is www.Bookjobs.com, a website that provides entry-level
job listings from virtually every major book publisher in the U.S.,
along with a wealth of information about the industry.  With nearly
300 companies listing jobs– including Bookspan, Elsevier,
HarperCollins, Holtzbrinck, Houghton Mifflin, McGraw-Hill, Pearson
Education, Penguin, Random House, Simon & Schuster, Time Warner,
John Wiley & Sons, and a host of others – the website is a true "one
stop shopping" resource for anyone seeking a career in book
publishing. For more information visit http://www.bookjobs.com/ and
http://www.publishers.org/.
*****
THE BOOK OF LATINA WOMEN BY SYLVIA MENDOZA
Award-winning Latina journalist Sylvia Mendoza is the author of The
Book Of Latina Women, one of the most humbling and inspiring
projects she has ever worked on. The Book of Latina Women highlights
the contributions of 150 fabulous Latina women whose accomplishments
in history, science, politics, art, and entertainment--past and
present--have impacted the world. From political leaders like Eva
Perón, who ruled Argentina with flamboyance and an iron fist, to
pioneers like France Anne Cordova, the youngest person to ever hold
the Chief Scientist position at NASA, The Book of Latina Women
provides a unique perspective on Latina women from all periods in
history and all walks of life. For more information visit www.sylvia-
mendoza.com.
*****
TE DE CANELA/CINNAMON TEA BY EDNA CAMPOS GRAVENHORST
www.tedecanela.com
Te de Canela is a collection of essays, short stories and poems
about Edna Campos Gravenhorst's experience of growing up in a
Mexican American family in the United States. Her mother and her
parents were born in America, her father was born and raised in
Mexico. She was very fortunate to grow up in two different cultures,
and in Te de Canela she shares life lessons that cross over many
cultures.
Now available:
Borders Books & Music - San Antonio, Texas - 11745 W IH10
Borders Books & Music - St. Louis, Missouri - Brentwood
Borders Books & Music - St. Louis, Missouri - Sunset Hills
Borders Books & Music - Fairview Heights, Illinois
Left Bank Books - St. Louis, Missouri
Hastings Books - McAllen, Texas
Your Local Bookstore - By Special Order, ISBN 0-9745346-1-7
Also by Edna Campos Gravenhorst, Historical Home Research in the
City of St. Louis, ISBN 0-9745346-0-9. She encourages Latino writers
to self publish and get out there and market your work! Thank you to
all of you for your support.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
*****
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad™, please credit The
Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and
share what doesn't work and why.
*****

"Only a person who does absolutely nothing, never makes a mistake."
--Mexican Proverb

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad™ Newsletter – September 2004

Contents:
1. Saludos: Self-Publishing
2. Q&A: Editorial Director Diane Gedymin
3. Recommendations: www.parapublishing.com
4. Author Spotlight: Karen E. Quinones Miller
5. Upcoming Workshops: How to Successfully Self-Publish Panel
6. Writing Opportunities: Writer's Digest International Self-
Published Book Awards

*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************

1. Saludos
Self-publishing has proven to be an effective method by which to
launch a writing career for numerous African-American authors, such
as Zane, E. Lynn Harris, and Michael Baisden. Latinos, however, are
not actively self-publishing. This is a mistake. Having said this,
there is a difference between simply self-publishing and
successfully self-publishing. The purpose of self-publishing is to
provide evidence to agents and editors that there is a market for
your book. The only reliable evidence is sales. To be successful,
you must be willing and able to personally sell at least 5,000
copies of your self-published book in less than a year. While this
may seem difficult, it is not impossible, as many writers have done
this. If they can do it, so can you.
	 I believe so strongly that Latinos need to self-publish that
I, in conjunction with Black Americans in Publishing, have organized
a panel on self-publishing. (See Upcoming Workshops for more
information.) I urge you to attend; if you cannot, consider sending
a friend on your behalf to take notes. If this isn't an option, then
take advantage of the multitudinous resources offered on Dan
Poynter's web site in Recommendations; learn from the self-
publishing success story in Author Spotlight; and once you take the
leap and self-publish, submit your book to the Writer's Digest
contest in Writing Opportunities.

Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

2. Q&A
Diane Gedymin is currently Editorial Director of iUniverse, one of
the largest print-on-demand publishers in the United States. Before
joining iUniverse, Gedymin was affiliated with Carlisle & Company, a
Manhattan based literary agency. She was formerly Sr. Vice President
and Publishing Director of the San Francisco division of Harper
Collins, Vice President and Senior Editor for the Putnam Berkley
Group, and Vice President of Subsidiary Rights at Putnam. She has
worked with many bestselling authors such as Sidney Poitier, Johnny
Cash and Sheri Reynolds. Below the respected publishing veteran
shares some inestimable advice.

Why is iUniverse a great home for Latino writers?
iUniverse is a great home for any writer who wants to self-publish,
but since there are so very few publishers out there today who
publish Latino writers, either in a special imprint or on their
general lists, it's especially important that these writers have an
outlet. iUniverse is a true alternative in the publishing industry.
	 First, it's fast and affordable. For a few hundred dollars,
you can have finished books in four to six weeks! Moreover, we offer
the same higher level services that you get from traditional
publishing—from full editorial services at the beginning of the
process to publicity, marketing and coop advertising once the book
is published—at affordable, industry standard rates.
	 Authors also save money when purchasing books; since we are
a print-on-demand provider, writers don't have to stock large
quantities of books in anticipation of sales. You can buy one copy
or l0,000—but not until you actually need them! And authors get
great volume discounts for personal distribution and sale.
	 In addition, iUniverse titles are available through online
retailers like Barnes & Noble and Amazon and customers can order
books at over 25,000 booksellers worldwide. Latino writers would be
eligible for the same coop advertising programs we make available to
all authors and, in the future, we're planning ads in periodicals
targeted specifically to the Latino market.

Which Latino authors has iUniverse published?
We have published over a hundred books by Latinos or about subjects
concerning Latino readers.

What kinds of manuscripts are ideal for self-publishing?
1. When the author is interested in producing a book for a small
audience (friends, family, or a local audience).
2. When the book is designed for a niche or very targeted audience
(special interest groups).
3. When the author wants to have a book for professional reasons
such as to gain recognition, to publicize a specialty, or to enhance
speaking engagements.
4. When an author is interested in a career as a traditionally
published author but is having trouble getting started or getting
noticed.
5. When a traditional publisher puts a book out of print.
6. Any time an author wants a professionally published book without
making a big up-front financial investment in printing or inventory.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Other than getting the best and most appropriate editorial services
available, there are a few things I think are critical:

* Competition and comparison: Read, read, read. Know your
competition. Check that your idea for a book is unique and fresh. It
can be the very best book on the subject, but if there are l00 out
there already, no matter how good it is, it will be difficult to
find a readership for it.

* Title: A good title is everything. Bad books with great titles
succeed but fabulous books with bad titles can fail. It is
singularly the hardest thing to pin down. Work on your title to make
it appealing, immediately understandable and fresh.

* Keynote: Whatever you call it—elevator pitch, sound byte—you need
to focus on how you describe your book in a few sentences. If you
can't tell people what your book is about in a brief statement, how
can you possibly expect others to know what it's about?

* Platform: How well known you are and what you're doing to promote
your book is so critical to its success. Nowadays, everyone from
booksellers to the media wants to know what you've already done to
promote your book. You have to start getting your name and your
message out, even before you start writing your book. But you don't
have to be on Oprah. You can start with regional or niche media—free
newspapers, editorials, columns, articles, trade journals. Place a
story in a literary magazine if you're a novelist. Contact
colleagues and network. Try to get interviewed as a "local expert"
on the radio or local TV. Give seminars. Address church groups and
libraries. Join a book club and writer's group. Become a fixture in
your local bookstore. Start a website. Create a database for
mailings or e-mailings. And, if necessary and you're really serious
about this, hire a media coach and personal publicist. In other
words, become visible.

Direct queries to general.inquiries@... or 1-877-288-4737
iUniverse web site www.iuniverse.com
Click here for more interviews with editors seeking Latino writers
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Recommendations
Dan Poynter is a self-publishing expert and has sold millions of his
books, including several best sellers. Many of his books sell at the
rate of 10,000-20,000 copies per year, every year. Poynter shares
his expertise on his web site, www.parapublishing.com, which offers
an impressive amount of information self-published writers need,
including: a list of attorneys who specialize in book publishing;
postal rates for book shipments; and a wealth of review mailing
lists for specific media, such as African-American magazines,
magazines for librarians, and radio talk shows.
www.parapublishing.com is the definitive resource for writers
interested in self-publishing.

Offer a recommendation marcelalandres@...
Click here for more recommendations
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
Karen E. Quinones Miller self-published her first novel, Satin Doll.
She sold over 24,000 copies, then found an agent, and shortly
thereafter landed a six-figure deal with Simon & Schuster. She is
now the bestselling author of four books, including her latest, Ida
B. It follows three childhood friends: Brenda Carver, who wants to
write a novel but doesn't know where to begin; Rosa Rivera, who
aspires to be the next Nicole Kidman; and Sharif Goldsby, an
activist who lives to make a difference. While they are devoted to
each other and their neighbors in the Ida B. Wells Barnett Tower
(the titular Ida B.), their dreams are both inspired and inhibited
by their community. A tragedy tests their loyalty and integrity, and
teaches them that a lie is sometimes more righteous than the truth.
Like Gloria Naylor's The Women of Brewster Place, Ida B. creates a
powerful sense of place, and presents characters whose imperfections
are also their strengths.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
Ralph Ellison and F. Scott Fitzgerald inspire me because of their
beautiful writing style. Langston Hughes inspires me because of his
simplistic way of writing, and Gabriel Garcia Marquez because of his
fearlessness in writing. What I mean by fearlessness . . . many
authors are willing to take chances, but most will wink at the
reader as if to say, "you see what I'm doing? Are you following me,
here?" Garcia just does it. He just plows through it. And you find
yourself following in his wake. Following him wherever it is he
deigns to take you. That's fearless writing, in my opinion.

Self-publishing has proven to be an effective way for many writers
to launch a writing career, yet Latinos do not seem to be actively
self-publishing. Why do you think this is so?
I'm not sure how to answer this question. I think one reason is that
there aren't really many bookstores that are considered "Latino" and
absolutely no Latino distributors that I know of. And having
friendly and supportive bookstores and distributors is essential, I
believe, to successfully self-publish. Because while you're out in
the street giving out flyers, and selling books out of the trunk of
your car (and anyone who has self-published knows what I mean) it's
the bookstores and distributors who help sell the books on the
inside. One of the problems that African-Americans had before the
advent of black bookstores and distributors is that the white
bookstore and distributor clerks didn't actually read their books,
and therefore never hand sold them or recommended them. Word of
mouth goes a long way in the book selling business, and it goes even
longer when the word is coming from a bookstore or book distributor.
Right now, Latinos don't have this kind of support, so I think
that's one thing that hinders their self-publishing success. I do
think, though, if there were one really successful Latino
breakthrough in self-publishing it would open up the floodgates.

How did you meet your agent?
My present agent is Liza Dawson of Liza Dawson Associates in New
York City. My first agent, though, was Delin Cornery of Peter Miller
Associates. Delin was one of the many agents to whom I sent a query
letter and later a manuscript of Satin Doll (my first book) and one
of the many who turned me down. After I self-published Satin Doll,
and had sold about 18,000 copies in five months, Delin e-mailed me
and said that she was at a party the evening before and heard two
editors at different publishing houses discussing my book. She
advised me to get an agent quick, because the publishing world was
hot for Satin Doll, and would soon be banging on my door to acquire
the rights. I emailed her back and told her she was hired.
Unfortunately, Delin left the business in 2002, but before doing so
she recommended three literary agents to me. I lunched with all
three and decided to go with Liza.

What is your writing ritual?
I wrote Satin Doll while working full-time and also being a single-
mom, so most of my writing was done very, very late at night. Well,
when I first quit my job to write full-time I really intended to
write as if it were a 9-5 job. I thought I'd get up at 8:30 a.m. or
so, shuffle over to the computer and do some writing until about 11
a.m., then take a long lunch break and get back to writing about 2
p.m., and then quit for the day about 3:30 p.m. Hah! I found out
that I could do some editing during the day, but that my muse didn't
sit on my lap until about 11:30 at night, and I did my best writing
from midnight to 5 a.m. So . . . that's what I now do!

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
To be fearless. You simply can't be afraid of rejection. You have to
remember if someone tells you "no," it simply means you can't do it
with that person, it doesn't mean you can't do it. You've got to
push through the no's until you get to a yes. Don't let the no's get
you down! And you have to network. Go out to book festivals and
seminars, and meet people who have already done the same thing
you're trying to do. Listen to them and learn from their successes,
but also their mistakes. But whatever you do . . . don't give up!

Read excerpt and author bio http://www.karenequinonesmiller.com/
Obtain Ida B:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0743260015/marcelalandre-
20/002-1964028-7280037?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
Click here for more Author Spotlights
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
How to Successfully Self-Publish Panel, sponsored by NYS Democratic
Majority Leader Senator David A. Paterson in conjunction with Black
Americans in Publishing and the Latinidad™ Newsletter.

WHAT: Noted best selling authors Zane, E. Lynn Harris, and Karen E.
Quinones Miller all began their careers by self-publishing. Join us
to learn how you, too, can self-publish a best seller. Topics
discussed include: why publishers want to work with self-published
writers; determining if self-publishing is right for you; how to get
started; marketing, publicizing, and selling your book. Moderated by
Marcela Landres, Publisher of the Latinidad™ Newsletter.

WHEN: 6p.m.-8p.m., Tuesday, September 14

WHERE: 2nd floor Gallery, Adam Clayton Powell Office Building,
Harlem, NY

WHO:
* Karen E. Quinones Miller, bestselling author, Ida. B
* Wanda Thomas, Publisher, JCW Enterprises, Inc. and self-published
children's author of Beautiful Me and Handsome Me
* Manie Barron, Literary Agent
* Diane Gedymin, Editorial Director, iUniverse, Inc.
* Earl Cox, President and Chief Executive, Earl Cox & Associates
Worldwide

RSVP: Suggested donation is $10. The first 50 guests will receive a
gift. RSVP to marcelalandres@...; mail checks payable to Black
Americans in Publishing to: Dr. Hulan Jack, Jr., Treasurer, BAIP, PO
Box 6275, FDR Station, New York, NY

If you would like me to speak at your organization, click here for a
Request a Workshop form http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Click here for a list of upcoming workshops
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on
Writing Opportunities.
*********************************************************************
Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Awards
Deadline: December 15
Writer's Digest is searching for the best self-published books of
the past few years. Whether you're a professional writer, part-time
freelancer, or a self-starting student, here's your chance to enter
the only competition exclusively for self-published books. The
prizes include a $3,000 cash award, promotion in Writer's Digest and
Publishers Weekly, and guaranteed distribution to bookstores and
libraries through Baker & Taylor. For more information and to apply
visit http://www.writersdigest.com/contests/self_published.asp
********************
MULTICULTURAL ESSAY WORKSHOP
Registration Deadline: Tuesday, September 7th
From Here to There: Living in two, three, or more cultures can breed
insanity, blessings, and lots to write about. In this class, we'll
study the slippery genre of personal essay writing in relation to
our cultural experiences and lives as people of color. The class is
for beginners and the experienced. Come with the essay you've been
working on or come for assignments that will catapult you into
writing. Daisy Hernandez is Colombiana-Cubana lesbian and the co-
editor of Colonize This! Young Women of Color on Today's Feminism.
Her essays have appeared in the Crab Orchard Review and Ms.
magazine, as well as the anthologies Sex and Single Girls (Seal
Press, 2004), Without a Net (Seal Press, 2004), and Border-line
Personalities (Rayo, 2004). To register and for more info visit
www.kearnystreet.org.
********************
HOW TO GET ON HBO DEF POETRY
Deadline: September 21
For all those who wanted to get their chance to send in a tape for
the upcoming season of HBO's Def Poetry here it is. Format for
tapes/DVDs (no audio cassettes, please!) 2 poems performed in front
of a live audience (no longer than 5 minutes in length for both
poems). Name and contact info necessary; all the bio stuff is not.
Send to: Shihan Van Clief, c/o Def Poetry, 5923 Willoughby Ave, #1,
Los Angeles, CA 90038. Group pieces are also being looked at with
the same time restraints.
********************
MEXICAN LITERARY FICTION IN TRANSLATION
Deadline: December 30
Mexico: A Traveler's Literary Companion, an anthology of
contemporary Mexican literary fiction to be edited by C.M. Mayo for
Whereabouts Press, needs translations of quality contemporary
literary Mexican fiction with a strong sense of place (e.g., Oaxaca,
Sierra Tarahumara, Guadalajara). Reprints welcome. Novel excerpts OK
if can stand alone. Please include both translation and the original
work; author's bio; translator's bio; contact information for
translator, author; and—this is especially important—any other
contact information that would be needed for securing permissions.
Send to: C.M. Mayo, Editor, "Mexico", P.O. Box 58063, Washington DC
20037. Please include a SASE for reply. C.M. Mayo (www.cmmayo.com)
is the author of Miraculous Air: Journey of a Thousand Miles through
Baja California, the Other Mexico (University of Utah Press, 2002).
Whereabouts Press (www.whereaboutspress.com) is the publisher of the
highly regarded Traveler's Literary Companions series.
********************
iCARAMBA U. COLLEGE MAGAZINE SEEKS WRITERS
iCaramba U. Magazine submits monthly assignments to writers
nationwide and if we publish your work, you will get paid. All you
need to do is e-mail two writing samples to aaldano@... or
fax them to 212-792-5839, Attn: iCaramba U, and we'll contact you.
Here's what we're working on for in our next issue: Interracial
Dating; Amor de Lejos - LDD - Long Distance Dating; Campus Crawl:
Los Angeles; Trendsetters; Salud; A la Moda (Beauty, Fashion, Art);
Latino Greek Life - Pre-pledge, Pledge, Post-pledge, and Alumni
Phases: Tell us your experiences. iCaramba U. College Magazine is a
fresh voice intent on reaching college and high school aged Latinos
all over the country. We currently have a circulation of 100,000 in
100 universities nationally, making us one of the top 10 Latino
publications in the U.S. For more information visit
www.iCarambaU.com.
********************
CUERPO MAGAZINE SEEKS FASHION AND BEAUTY EDITORS
Cuerpo Magazine is seeking a New York and/or L.A. based fashion and
beauty editor. We are in need of a talented and experienced writer
in the area of fashion and beauty. Qualified candidates will be able
to inform our readers of the realistic trends that Latina/ethnic
women can relate to, and assist our readers with creating a personal
sense of style that is realistic and complements different body
structures. We are not asking for reports on couture clothing unless
there are affordable options for our readers. Awareness of the
diversity within Latino culture/women of color including skin, hair,
body image, cultural sensitivity, realistic trends, affordable
style, and beauty trends are topics that are important for both our
fashion and beauty editors. We are a national print magazine that
will premiere in the U.S. market 2004. We are focused on providing
up-to-date information to our contemporary Latina/women of color
readers. Some travel involved, new opportunity, intern option
available for assistance with our editorial staff, pay rate $50-
$300. For information please forward resume with any published
clippings to: Cuerpo Magazine, Inc, c/o Fashion & Beauty, 980 N.
Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago IL 60611, Attn: Jeanette Cruz,
or call 312-214-4922.
********************
SCRIPT ANALYSIS FOR LATINO SCREENWRITERS
Latino Screenwriters Network is a new script analysis service
especially for Latino screenwriters. We will help you get to the
heart of your story by offering analysis on key script elements such
as originality, plot, theme, character, dialogue and formatting. We
will also identify what is and isn't working in your script,
pinpoint story problems and offer comments aimed at helping you
communicate your vision onto the page. By offering support,
encouragement and professional, affordable script analysis, it is
our hope to empower Latino screenwriters in order to effectively
compete in the market as well as foster storytelling that celebrates
the Latino experience . . . Because YOU have a unique story worth
telling! Visit us on the web at www.LatinoScreenwriters.com for more
information, including a complete list of rates, services, and
instructions on how to submit scripts.
********************
LITERARY MAMA SEEKS COLUMNIST
Literary Mama, A Literary Magazine for the Maternally Inclined
(www.literarymama.com) is looking for a new columnist to join their
amazing current group. Their columnists are all mothers, all writing
about motherhood. They are particularly interested in mothers who
have a unique take/view/situation in regards to their motherhood
status. For example, one columnist writes about sex and motherhood,
one writes about being a lesbian mother, one writes about being a
mother in academia and so forth. They are looking for dynamic,
diverse, exciting, mother writers who aren't afraid to put the truth
out there. The best way to know what they are looking for is to
scour the current columnists -- then send them an email with a
writing sample and the idea you have for a column, detailing why
yours would be unique. Columnists are expected to contribute columns
bimonthly, for a total of 6 in a year. E-mail Heidi Raykeil Co-
Editor, Columns at columns@....
********************
WRITEGIRL SEEKS LATINA WRITING MENTORS
Are you cool? A writer? Latina? A Spanish speaker? Would you like to
make a difference in our community but don't know how or where?
WriteGirl wants you! WriteGirl is a nonprofit organization for inner
city high school girls centered on the craft of creative writing.
Through one-on-one mentoring and monthly workshops, girls are given
techniques, insights and hot tips for great writing in all genres
including poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction, songwriting,
journalism, screenwriting, playwriting, persuasive writing, journal
writing, and editing. 70% of our participating girls are Latinas,
yet the opposite is true of our mentoring and volunteer pool.
Specifically, we are looking for women to assist with event
planning, public relations, fundraising and communications. The
minimum time commitment for ALL volunteers and mentors is two hours
per week. To apply for membership, please download the application
form from our website: http://www.writegirl.org/joinus.html. Once we
have reviewed your application, we will contact you to invite you to
an orientation and training in September or October. See our website
for more information: www.writegirl.org. Questions? Email us at
info@... or call 323-327-2555.
********************
ANTONIO'S QUEST
Tomás Martínez's first novel is about growing up in a country under
permanent socio-economical and political crisis, where the voices of
the people for democratic change were always matched by the
government's repression. Expect the unexpected in this confident
debut of the author where his vivid and imaginative narrative won't
disappoint. The book was released last June and information about it
and the author can be found at www.antoniosquest.com.
********************
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD™
E-mail announcements about contests, calls for submissions,
conferences, jobs, book publications, literary events, etc., to
marcelalandres@....
********************
BACK ISSUES
All back issues are available at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
********************
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
The Latinidad™ Newsletter and include a link to
www.marcelalandres.com.
********************
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why. ********************

"If you want to get good service, serve yourself."
--Italian Proverb

The Latinidad™ Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

Latinidad Newsletter – July/August 2004

Contents:
1. Saludos: Publicity
2. Q&A: Publicist Camille McDuffie
3. Recommendations: Publicize Your Book! by Jacqueline Deval
4. Author Spotlight: Stephanie Elizondo Griest
5. Upcoming Workshops: What Book Editors Really Want Workshop
6. Writing Opportunities: PEN Emerging Voices Fellowships

*********************************************************************
For lists of agents and editors seeking Latino writers, visit
www.marcelalandres.com and click on "Newsletter," then
"Writing
Opportunities."
*********************************************************************

1. Saludos
July 2004 marks the one-year anniversary of Latinidad. Like my web
site and workshops, Latinidad was created specifically to help
Latino writers get published. Judging from the many success stories
I receive, Latinidad's readers are finding agents and getting
published. If it worked for them, it can work for you. But reading
it isn't enough—use it. Send your proposals to the editors
interviewed in Q&A; use the resources highlighted in
Recommendations; and submit your work to the contests and calls for
submissions listed in Writing Opportunities. Inspiration is good,
but action is better.
	 To underscore the importance of action, the subject of this
month's issue is publicity. The publicity budget a publisher will
allot to a book will likely fall in the $500 to $5000 range; this
amount includes postage for review mailings. If you want your book
to succeed, be prepared to take action by investing a substantial
amount of your time and energy, as well as some of your money, in
the promotion of your book. Ultimately, the success of a book is
limited not by the publisher's resources, but by the author's
resourcefulness. Some action you can take now is to heed the advice
of the renowned book publicist interviewed in Q&A; study the
indispensable primer highlighted in Recommendations; and emulate the
publicity savvy writer featured in Author Spotlight.

2. Q&A
Camille McDuffie is the President of Goldberg McDuffie
Communications, Inc. which sets the standard for book publicity.
They have worked with virtually every major publishing house, and
handle a broad range of projects including literary fiction, quality
non-fiction, business books, commercial best sellers, reference
books, and electronic books. Past projects they have worked on
include Paula by Isabel Allende, Having Our Say by the Delaney
Sisters, and Eleven Minutes by Paulo Coelho. Below McDuffie offers
an insider's perspective on what writers should--and should
not--do when seeking a publicist.

How do you choose the writers you work with?
There are several factors that go into how we choose which books and
authors to work on. Sometimes we are asked by the publisher to work
on a book and we rarely turn down the opportunity to work on an
important book by a major publisher. But even more often we are
called by authors who are willing to invest in their career by
hiring their own publicist. We ask to read the book (as much as we
can), we consult with the author about their goals and needs, and we
confer with their publisher as well. Then we decide if we can be
effective for them.

What is the best way for writers to find a publicist that is right
for them?
There are a number of freelance publicists and by asking for
recommendations from fellow authors, their publisher, and their
agent they will end up with a list of names. Authors should check
out the publicists' websites and look at the books they've handled
in the past. Some publicists focus on certain areas such as diet
books, self help, parenting, spirituality, business books, or
cookbooks. Others, like us, are more generalists. Then the author
should call and chat with a few of them, gauge their interests and
proceed from there.

What are the most common mistakes writers make when choosing a
publicist?
Some common mistakes include hiring a publicist before checking with
their publisher to find out what, if any, plans the house has for
the book; thinking that if they hire a publicist they can sit back,
relax, and watch their book hit the best-seller list--a good
publicist will want the author to be very involved in the campaign,
helping with ideas, pitches, and other aspects; thinking there is
only one good publicist for your book--if one firm can't take on
your book, there is someone else out there who probably will.

What is the most important thing writers can do to promote their
books before they are published?
Be involved and communicate with your publicist--and hire your
publicist at least four months before your book's publication.
Provide her with thorough biographical material about yourself;
provide her with a list of your own contacts in the media, if you
have them, who may be helpful; discuss your goals and work with your
publicist to decide how best to achieve the coverage you want. Be
optimistic but realistic about the publicity possibilities--not
every book is suited for an hour on "Oprah."

What is the most important thing writers can do to promote their
books after they are published?
If you wait until after publication to decide you need a publicist,
you will be very disappointed. Most publicists do not take on
projects after the publication date because it is difficult to be
effective. Book reviewers and other media outlets need to work in
advance to plan reviews and stories. So don't wait till it's too
late--think ahead about your publicity needs.

Contact Goldberg McDuffie Communications, Inc.: First check out
their website at www.goldbergmcduffie.com and then call them at 212-
446-5106. Be sure to mention you were referred to them by the
Latinidad newsletter.
Click here for interviews with editors seeking Latino writers
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Recommendations
Jacqueline Deval perfectly sums up the state of book publicity in
the first two lines of her excellent primer Publicize Your
Book: "The reality of book publishing is that there are too few
resources to support every book. This means that some books will get
publicity campaigns and budgets while others will go without."
Deval should know--she has been a director of publicity for several
publishing companies, and has created campaigns for hundreds of
authors such as Margaret Atwood, Nikki Giovanni, and Dennis Lehane.
Deval generously shares a wealth of advice and wisdom, including
the "Nine Common Mistakes that Authors Make," "The
Warning Signs of
an Incompetent Publicist," and "The Twenty Rules of Writing
an
Effective Press Release." The richly comprehensive Resources
section in particular is destined to become dog-eared from repeated
use. If you believe your writing deserves the widest readership
possible, read--and use--Publicize Your Book.

Read an excerpt and find useful links www.publicizeyourbook.com
Obtain Publicize Your Book
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0399528636/marcelalandre-
20/102-4691262-2900922?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
Offer a recommendation marcelalandres@...
Click here for more recommendations
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
In her charming memoir, Around The Bloc: My Life in Moscow, Beijing,
and Havana, Stephanie Elizondo Griest admits that in high school she
aspired to be the kind of woman "who bought her funky jewelry
from
its country of origin instead of a booth at the mall." After
having
traveled to 21 countries in four years, she has become exactly that
and more--a clever, convivial, and gifted chronicler. Elizondo
Griest embraces adventure with curiosity and pluck, combating
political apathy, relishing culinary novelties, and gathering
stories, each one a gem. Travel veterans and armchair travelers
alike will find Elizondo Griest to be an ideal companion as they
make their way Around the Bloc. Caution: reading Around the Bloc may
cause wanderlust.
	 Not only is Elizondo Griest skilled at writing, she is also
savvy about publicity. To promote her book, she sent herself on a
multi-city tour, the Bloc Party; built an attractive and informative
web site, www.aroundthebloc.com; and she proactively seeks speaking
engagements, such as her upcoming memoir writing class at the Gotham
Writer's Workshop and "The Best Travelers' Tales
2004" reading at
Barnes & Noble (see her web site for more details). The result?
Though the book was published just this past March, it has already
gone back to press and been glowingly reviewed in the New York Time
Book Review, the Washington Post Book World, and the San Francisco
Chronicle Book Review, among many others. Read the instructive
interview below to learn what it takes to be a successful author.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
Mary Morris's Nothing to Declare inspired my desire to travel the
world and write about it; Michele Serros's How to Be a Chicana
Role
Model and Chicana Falsa kept me true to my roots.

Why do you love to write memoirs?
Four years ago, I actually disliked memoirs--I never read them and
certainly had no plans to write one myself. But after 20 publishing
houses rejected my manuscript (which at the time was a literary
travelogue of 12 countries with almost no personal reflection), my
agent suggested reworking it as a memoir. This advice devastated me,
and I took a whole year off the project to think about it. Did I
*really* want to write about intensely personal things, like my sex
life and views about race and politics? The very thought mortified
me . . . but so did the realization that I may have just wasted an
entire year working on a manuscript for ten hours a day, seven days
a week, that didn't sell.
	 I finally decided to give it a try and reworked my book
proposal to read more like a memoir than a travelogue--and
Villard/Random House bought it. I spent the following year
performing major reconstructive surgery on my 500-page manuscript to
transform it into a memoir. My respect for memoirists subsequently
shot up a billion fold. When you write a memoir, every tragedy,
disappointment, and insecurity you've ever endured in your life
flies right back in your face, forcing you to deal with them all
over again (and again and again and again) throughout the rewriting
process. Your happy memories, meanwhile, become trite and tiresome
by the time you're satisfied with the way they've been
recaptured.
You begin to feel as though you're living backward--more in your
past than your present.
	 So I can't exactly say that I love writing memoirs. I am,
however, proud to have survived the writing of one, and now find
myself reading them often. This summer, I'll even be teaching a
memoir writing class in New York City through the Gotham Writer's
Workshop. Drop me a line if you're interested: Stephanie[at]
aroundthebloc.com.

How did you meet your agent?
I'd always heard that the best way to find an agent is through
your own network, but none of the five queries I sent on personal
recommendations got me anywhere (likely because I had no idea what I
was doing, but that's another story . . .). I waited a while,
then
looked up agent profiles in the Writer's Digest directory and
queried another five. One asked to see my proposal, but after
sitting on it for six months, she too rejected it--for some very
concrete reasons that she generously shared with me. I then bought a
copy of Michael Larsen's "How to Write a Book Proposal"
and spent
several months reworking the proposal as both the agent and Larsen
suggested. By that point, I felt that I was finally on the right
track, so I bought Jeff Herman's "Writer's Guide to Book
Editors,
Publishers and Literary Agents" and queried 20 agents profiled in
it. Eight expressed interest so I cashed in my frequent flier miles
and flew out to New York City (from Texas) to meet them. I wanted an
agent with whom I could build an entire career, and felt that trust,
mutual respect, and genuine camaraderie would be the most critical
components of such a relationship--qualities that could only be
determined in person. Five minutes into my meeting with Sarah Jane
Freymann, I instinctively knew that she was the one. We just had the
right chemistry. And it has been a joy working together--well worth
the time and energy I invested in finding her.

What is your writing ritual?
I write as though a dominatrix is hovering over me with a whip and
chain, demanding specified word counts before I'm allowed to eat
my
breakfast, go to the bathroom, or get a drink of water. If you
really want to make it in this field, you must have a discipline and
work ethic bordering on masochism.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
The strong "cultural identity" theme that runs through Around
the
Bloc is what ultimately enabled me to sell it. There is a vast and
hungry reading market out there for Latino writers, plus some
wonderful media outlets and institutions that exist solely to
support and promote us. Magazines like Latina, Hispanic, and Estylo
ran reviews of my book; cultural organizations like Nuestra Palabra
in Houston and the Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana in
San Jose invited me to read in their space; radio shows like
"Sexto
Sol" in Houston, "Musica Suave" in Corpus Christi, and
"A View From
The Other Side" in Dallas interviewed me on air; Chicano studies
professors at the University of California in Santa Barbara and the
University of Wisconsin at Madison assigned my book to their
students. Later this month, the Instituto Cervantes is flying me out
to London to present on a panel about the Hispanic diaspora in
literature. Of course, finding these outlets and institutions was no
small task. I logged in several hundred hours hunting them down on
Google, querying them via e-mail, and following up with phone calls
and press packets. But the payoff has been amazing. If we are
willing to invest our time and energy into establishing these
contacts, we cannot fail. The system is such that we as Latinos
simply won't let ourselves fail.

Read reviews, travel tips, and writing advice www.aroundthebloc.com
Obtain Around the Bloc
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0812967607/marcelalandre-
20/102-4691262-2900922?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
Click here for more Author Spotlights
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
7/8/04 - 7/9/04 – "What Book Editors Really Want" Workshop

Most proposals are rejected not because the writing is
unpublishable, but because the writer failed to provide the editor
with all the information s/he needs to give the work full
consideration. This is true for both fiction and non-fiction
proposals. Learn what it takes to become the kind of writer editors
want to work with. Topics discussed include: the top ten mistakes
writers make; the true purpose of a proposal, and how to make yours
stand out; why writing conferences may be a better investment than
an M.F.A.; and the real role of the author in the publishing process.

I will also meet with authors one-on-one from 2:00-3:00 p.m. on
Friday, July 8, 2004. Only eight time slots are available, so sign
up now!

Where: The 15th Annual Writers Institute, Pyle Center at the
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
When: 12:45-1:45 p.m., Thursday, July 8, 2004
To register: http://www.dcs.wisc.edu/lsa/writing/awi/index.html.
Download brochure:
http://www.dcs.wisc.edu/lsa/writing/awi/awi_broch_04.pdf.
Questions?: Ask Christine DeSmet, Director, 608-262-3447,
cdesmet@....

If you would like me to speak at your
conference/company/organization, click here for a Request a Workshop
form http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Click here for a list of upcoming workshops
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
*********************************************************************
For more writing opportunities, including calls for submissions,
contests and conferences, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click
on "Newsletter," then "Writing Opportunities."
*********************************************************************
PEN CENTER USA EMERGING VOICES FELLOWSHIPS
Deadline: September 7
Seven to ten fellowships are given annually to writers from
minority, immigrant and underserved communities. Emerging Voices is
an intensive eight-month program involving writers in the early
stages of their literary careers. The program includes one-on-one
sessions with mentors and master classes with a renowned novelist.
There are no age restrictions, and the selection is not based solely
on economic need. Although participants need not be published, the
program is directed toward poets and writers of fiction and creative
nonfiction with clear ideas of what they hope to accomplish through
their writing. For more information visit
http://www.penusa.org/04evtext.htm.
*****
ANNUAL CONFERENCE ON WRITING AND ILLUSTRATING FOR CHILDREN
Early Registration Deadline: July 6
Conference Dates: August 6th – 9th, Los Angeles, CA
This year's program promises a mix of inspiration, market
information, networking and fun with major speeches from their world
renowned faculty interspersed with intensive, interactive workshops
designed to focus on specific interests. Workshops include "An
Editor Speaks to Illustrators" and "Your First Picture
Book".
Faculty includes Caldecott award-winner David Diaz and Newbery award-
winner Richard Peck. To register and for more information visit
http://www.scbwi.org.
*****
PUBLISHING/SELF PUBLISHING SEMINAR
July 11, Philadelphia
Karen E. Quinones Miller will be conducting a publishing/self-
publishing seminar in her home in Philadelphia, on Sunday, July
11th. This is not one of those self-publishing seminars conducted by
someone who has never successfully self-published. She self-
published her first book Satin Doll in December 1999 and sold 3,000
copies in six weeks, 24,000 copies in eight months, and was picked
up by a major publisher -- Simon & Schuster.

So she knows how to self-publish and how to get published. Topics
covered will include:

* Preparing your manuscript for submission to agents/editors
* Literary Agents - Do you need one? How do you get one?
* Self-Publishing - From A to Z (from getting an ISBN to getting
your books in stores)
* Print On Demand - The pros and cons
* Promoting Your Book.

Please go to www.karenequinonesmiller.com and click on
"Publishing
Seminars" to get more information on this seminar, and be sure to
click on "full seminar agenda" to get complete details about all
that will be covered in this 5 hour seminar.

Pre-Registration is required, and there are only 15 seats available -
- she wants to keep the group and informal, so everyone can get
their questions answered.

If you are interested in attending, please telephone Karen at (215)
381-0642.

Her past seminars have been attended by people from Pennsylvania,
New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Virginia and even Indiana. It shows
that people are willing to travel for good information.

Join Karen on Sunday, July 11th for a seminar you'll find useful and
informative.
*****
NEW LATINO WRITERS GROUP
First meeting: July 12, San Antonio, TX
The new Society of Latino and Hispanic Writers of San Antonio will
hold its first meeting on Monday, July 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Barnes
and Noble Bookstore located at 321 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, Texas.
All authors, writers, and aspiring writers are invited to attend.
For more information please contact Ruben Soto at 210-403-0871.
*****
JPMORGAN CHASE LATINO CULTURAL FESTIVAL
July 28-August 8, 2004, Queens Theatre in the Park, New York
Known for presenting debut USA performances by such artists as Ely
Guerra, Simon Diaz, and Eva Ayllon, the Festival celebrates the rich
legacy of Spanish, African and Caribbean cultures. The 8th annual
event kicks off with the US debut of Colombia's 25 member Grupo de
Danzas Folcloricas "Jocaycu" performing music and dance from
Colombia's Pacific and Atlantic coasts and mountain region. The
Theatre's International Movements Project presents the world
premiere of a commissioned dance performance by La Lagrima, a
collective of minimalist dancers and musicians, poets, and
videographers from Mexican border-city Hermosillo who brings their
daily life in the desert to the stage. Free family performances,
music and dance workshops, in an air-conditioned theatre located in
historic Flushing Meadows, Corona Park. There will also be outdoor
activities for all on weekends. Check web site for the full
festival's schedule as it becomes available: www.queenstheatre.org;
for information: 718-760-0064
*****
GLIMMER TRAIN VERY SHORT FICTION AWARD
Deadline: July 31
Glimmer Train, one of the more widely read and respected literary
publications in the nation, awards a prize of $1200 and publication
in Glimmer Train Stories twice yearly for a short story. Submit a
story of no more than 2000 words with a $10 entry fee by July 31.
For guidelines visit www.glimmertrainpress.com.
*****
LA MALINCHE WRITING WORKSHOP
August 12 -18, 2004, Jilotepec, Mexico
Join Elizabeth Coonrod Martinez at Casa Zazanilli, a writer's
retreat and workshop center located near the town of Jilotepec,
fifty miles northwest of Mexico City in an exploration of the
transformation of La Malinche's negative image of the Indian woman
who betrayed her race to the conquering Spaniards, to the positive
clairvoyant of the future. Casa Zazanilli is located on land taken
from the Otomies and granted to La Malinche by the father of her
son, Hernan Cortes, after Marina's marriage to the soldier Juan
Xaramillo. The local church is a contested site -- is she buried
there? Workshop fee: $875, includes lodging and meals at Casa
Zazanilli. For more information on this workshop, other writing
workshops, and the writer's retreat at Casa Zazanilli, see
www.casazazanilli.com.
*****
MACDOWELL COLONY
Application Deadline: September 15
Residency Dates: January 1 – April 30
Past attendees have included Pulitzer, National Book Award, and Rome
Prize winners; some of the writers who have worked at the Colony are
Oscar Hijuelos, Michael Chabon, Angie Cruz, and Alice Walker.
MacDowell Colony offers residencies of up to two months to poets,
fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers in Peterborough,
New Hampshire. The deadline for applying is September 15. For an
application and more information visit www.macdowellcolony.org.
*****
WASHINGTON SQUARE FICTION AND POETRY CONTEST
Deadline: September 31
Washington Square is a non-profit literary journal publishing
fiction, poetry and essays by emerging and established writers. It
is edited, produced, and nationally distributed biannually by the
students of the Graduate Program in Creative Writing at New York
University. Recent contributors to the journal include Billy
Collins, Sharon Olds, and Rick Moody. Final Judges: Ana Menéndez
(fiction) and Rodney Jones (poetry). First prize: $500 and
publication in the spring 2005 issue of Washington Square.
Select finalists also receive publication. For guidelines and more
information visit http://cwp.fas.nyu.edu/page/wsr.
*****
WRITERS DIGEST BRINGS WRITING CLASSES TO YOUR TOWN
The Great American Writing Road Trip Adventure is an opportunity to
receive first class instruction from expert teachers and connect
with other writers. Writer's Digest Books invites writers everywhere
to grab their notebooks, pencils and creativity and hop on board.
Make all your dreams of becoming a great writer come true. Upcoming
classes are scheduled in Connecticut, Louisiana, Massachusetts,
Mississippi, New York, and Tennessee. For a schedule of events and
more information visit www.livetowrite.com.
*****
EXPLICIT CONTENT
Ever since their catfight in junior school, Cassandra Rivers and
Leila Aponte have been two sides of the same coin, bonded by their
passion for hip hop and their shared dream of becoming recording
artists. Then gangsta rap mogul Gregory "Double D" Downs
comes along
and signs Leila as a solo artist to his label Explicit Content.
Stung by the betrayal, Cassandra struggles to push forward as a solo
artist.  But when Leila's career seems to fizzle as quickly as it
exploded, G Double D courts Cassandra. Despite rumors about Explicit
Content's financial woes, shady dealings and self-destructive
artists, Cassandra finds herself seduced by his promises. Just when
it seems that Cassandra will have her cake and eat it, too, she
learns the truth about Explicit Content and the threat it poses to
Leila and every other pretty yet lonely young woman seeking the
fleeting validation of a gilded industry. Cassandra must decide just
how much she is willing to compromise her ideals to realize her
dreams, and the wrong decision can cost her much more than her
career. In her debut novel, Black Artemis tells a story that is
truly hip-hop in all of its fascinating contradictions. To download
the first chapter and for more information, visit
www.blackartemis.com.
*****
SPIRE PRESS SEEKS SUBMISSIONS
Spire is accepting submissions for the spring 2005 issue. Poetry,
memoir, fiction, and poetry book reviews are accepted and
black/white art and photography are needed. Sample copies are $8
(including postage). Submission guidelines: www.spirepress.org,
Spire Press, 532 LaGuardia Pl, Ste 298, New York, NY 10012.
*****
VISIT THE ROSE & THORN
The award-winning Rose & Thorn Literary E-zine invites YOU to submit
poetry and prose. Why not find out why they were recently named one
of Writer's Digest's 101top websites for writers? They showcase the
best of the web in fiction, poetry and nonfiction. Come hear amazing
new voices from around the world that will leave you wondering what
took you so long to find them. To learn more visit
http://www.theroseandthornezine.com/.
*****
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN WRITERS
Get the new FREE eBooklet, RESOURCES FOR WRITERS by subscribing to
NAWW WEEKLY, the FREE inspirational/how-to emagazine for women
writers.  Send blank e-mail to naww@... or visit at
http://www.naww.org.
*****
POST AN ANNOUNCEMENT IN LATINIDAD
If you have an announcement about a writing contest, job opening,
call for submissions, book publication, or literary event that
you'd
like to share, email it to me at marcelalandres@...
*****
BACKISSUES
You can find all the back issues of Latinidad by visiting
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.
*****
REPRINTS
If you wish to reprint portions of Latinidad, please credit The
Latinidad Newsletter and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
*****
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't
work and why.
*****
Helping Latino writers get published,
Marcela Landres
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

"Without a reader, I cannot write. It's like a kiss: they
cannot be
done alone."
--John Cheever

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003 by Marcela Landres

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marcela Landres
718-208-5810
marcelalandres@...
www.marcelalandres.com

LATINIDAD NEWSLETTER HELPS LATINO WRITERS GET PUBLISHED

(New York City, NY, June 19, 2004) Finding the right publisher is
difficult for any writer, but Latino writers face unique challenges--
and opportunities--when launching and building successful
careers. "The question I am asked most often by Latino writers
is `How do I find a literary agent?' " says Marcela Landres,
publisher of Latinidad, the career advice newsletter for Latino
writers. "The funny thing is, during the seven years I was an editor
at Simon & Schuster, the question I was asked most often by agents
was `How do I find Latino writers?' I discovered an industry-wide
need to connect Latino writers to agents and editors, so I created
the Latinidad newsletter to serve that need."

Marking its 1-year anniversary in July 2004, the Latinidad
newsletter is helping more Latino voices be heard by spotlighting
places for them to get published: "I very much appreciate your
alerting us to opportunities we might otherwise easily miss--I sent
some poems to be considered for the forthcoming Virgil Suarez and
Ryan Van Cleave anthology Red, White and Blues which you mentioned
some time ago, and was lucky enough to have them accept one for
publication. Mil gracias!" says writer Mark Smith-Soto. Even
established writers find Latinidad useful: "Thank you for forwarding
all those opportunities for writers. They're very well chosen, and I
find myself forwarding many of them to people I think can take
advantage of them."--Esmeralda Santiago, author of The Turkish Lover

Latinidad is a free e-mail newsletter designed to connect Latino
writers to the agents and editors interested in publishing them. It
features:

• interviews with editors seeking Latino writers
• calls for submissions from agents seeking Latino writers
• announcements about writing contests, jobs, and conferences,
many of which are exclusive to Latinidad

The Latinidad newsletter is published by Marcela Landres, an
Editorial Consultant and Latino Publishing Specialist. She was an
editor at Simon & Schuster, where she oversaw their award-winning
Spanish language imprint Libros en Español. She speaks frequently
for organizations such as The San Diego Writers Conference, The
National Association of Hispanic Journalists, and The Columbia
Publishing Course.

Praise for Latinidad: "This is a wonderful newsletter. I think it's
awesome that you are providing this information."—Linda Nieves-
Powell, President/CEO, Latino Flavored Productions Inc. and creator
of Yo Soy Latina; "This newsletter is really awesome.  I receive a
lot of these, but yours is one of the few that really seeks to give
information to the writer, instead of being a brag sheet."--Lori
Perkins, Literary Agent and author of The Insider's Guide to Getting
an Agent. More praise can be found by visiting
www.marcelalandres.com and clicking on "Newsletter" then "Success
Stories."

Read the current issue of Latinidad by visiting
www.marcelalandres.com and clicking on "Newsletter." Find past
issues by visiting http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/.

Get a free report entitled "Ten Tips to Publishing Success for
Latino Writers" by sending an e-mail to marcelalandres@... and
placing the word "Tips" in the subject line.

For additional information contact: Marcela Landres
				     718-208-5810
				     marcelalandres@...
				     www.marcelalandres.com

                                  ###
********************
For writing opportunities, including lists of agents and editors seeking Latino
writers, visit www.marcelalandres.com and click on Newsletter, then click on
Writing Opportunities.
********************

Latinidad Newsletter – June 2004

Contents:
1. Saludos: Gay & Lesbian Pride Month
2. Q&A: Publisher Frédérique Delacoste
3. Recommendations: The Publishing Triangle
4. Author Spotlight: Alex Sanchez
5. Upcoming Workshops: An Insider's Guide for Writers of Color
Seminar
6. Writing Opportunities: Agent Miriam Goderich Seeks Latino Writers

1. Saludos
June is Gay & Lesbian Pride Month, and as such Latinidad celebrates
Latino gay and lesbian authors such as Aldo Alvarez, Carla Trujillo,
and Jaime Manrique. Highlights of this month's issue include: an
interview with a publisher seeking Latino gay and lesbian writers in
Q&A; a review of a Lambda Literary Award finalist in Author
Spotlight; and a publishing association of lesbians and gay men in
Recommendations.
	 However, June isn't just Gay & Lesbian Pride Month; the
Association of American Publishers has declared June is Latino Books
Month. See "June Is Latino Books Month" in Writing Opportunities for
details.
	 Speaking of writing opportunities, when you submit your work
to the individuals and organizations featured in this issue, please
be sure to clearly indicate in your cover letter that 1) you were
referred to them by the Latinidad newsletter, and 2) you are Latino,
especially if your name is not clearly Latino. Otherwise, your work
may get lost amidst the countless submissions these individuals and
organizations receive.

2. Q&A
Frédérique Delacoste is the Publisher of Cleis Press, which is
renowned for publishing great works of literature, human rights
journalism, as well as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and gender studies.
They were named Outstanding Independent Press by the Firecracker
Alternative Book Awards, and their books and authors have won
numerous Lambda Literary Awards. As you can see from the Q&A below,
Cleis has also done an excellent job of publishing Latino writers.

Why is Cleis Press a great home for Latino writers?
Cleis is a good home for writers who have a smart, critical
perspective on the world, and can write a good story.

Which Latino authors has Cleis Press published?
Achy Obejas' Memory Mambo (a novel) and We Came All the Way from
Cuba So You Could Dress Like This? (short stories). Jaime Cortez
edited a wonderful collection of stories by Gay Latinos writing
about love: Virgins, Guerillas & Locas: Gay Latinos Writing about
Love. Mariana Romo-Carmona collected poignant testimonies by parents
of Latino Gay and Lesbian children. Many of our erotica anthologies
include contributions by Latino writers. In 1987, we published The
Little School, Alicia Partnoy's fantastic volume of stories about
her detention in Argentina during the "Dirty War". It has now moved
to our Midnight Editions imprint.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
Writers can browse our website, www.cleispress.com, to get an idea
of the specific kinds of books we publish. We primarily publish
books in the areas of gay and lesbian studies, sexuality, erotica,
gender studies, and human rights. We publish mostly non-fiction but
will consider strong novels.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
It is essential that writers know what sorts of books we publish
before they submit anything to us for consideration. You'd be
surprised how many writers don't research our catalog before sending
a query. Besides that, a well-written, intelligent, and original
query or proposal is very important.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Read! Get a sense of what gets published and why. Beyond producing
good writing, writers need to be willing to promote and publicize
their books.

Send submissions to: fdelacoste@... or Frédérique
Delacoste, Cleis Press, PO Box 14684, San Francisco, CA 94114.
Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Web site: www.cleispress.com
Find more Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Recommendations
The Publishing Triangle is an association of lesbians and gay men in
publishing. They promote books written by lesbian and gay authors or
with lesbian and gay themes by sponsoring a LGBT writers conference
(see "Pink Ink: The Queer Book Expo" in Writing Opportunities) and
several awards, including The Bill Whitehead Award for Lifetime
Achievement and The Audre Lorde Award for Lesbian Poetry. Membership
is open to anyone, including writers, interested in the growth of
lesbian and gay writers, literature, and publishers. Visit their web
site to find links to LGBT publishers to whom you can submit your
work, sign up for their free email newsletter, and peruse a list of
the 100 Best Lesbian and Gay Novels.

The Publishing Triangle web site http://www.publishingtriangle.org/
Offer a recommendation marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
Judy Blume meets Queer as Folk in Alex Sanchez's entertaining and
empowering novels Rainbow Boys and Rainbow High. (The third in the
trilogy, Rainbow Road, will be out in fall 2005.) Like the
characters in Blume's books or the Queer as Folk television series,
Sanchez's characters are multidimensional and not easily
categorized. Rainbow Boys and Rainbow High follow three high school
boys who struggle to understand themselves and their place in a
sometimes hostile world. With sensitivity and skill, Sanchez writes
about universal themes through the unique perspective of gay teens;
his novels are as much about opening doors of self-discovery as they
are about coming out of the closet. He has a keen ear for how teens
really speak, and clear insight into how they really feel. If you
ever felt like an outsider in high school or appreciate a good
coming-of-age story, these critically-acclaimed and award-winning
novels are for you.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
One singular book from childhood that continues to inspire me years
later is The Story of Ferdinand, by Munro Leaf, illustrated by
Robert Lawson. It's about a Spanish bull that prefers smelling
flowers to fighting in a ring. That simple story continues to
communicate its timeless message not just to me but to new
generations of children, telling them it's okay to be different, to
be who you are, to be an individual.

Why do you love to write Young Adult fiction?
I love writing YA fiction because that's where my voice is.  My muse
is a very vocal inner teenager who wants me to write books that
would've helped me when I was an adolescent—one of the most lonely,
painful, and exhilarating times in my life, as it is for many.  For
teens, books can provide a moral compass, a system of values, a way
to understand themselves and the world.  Usually we learn these
things from peers, or at school, or from family.  But what happens
when all those avenues don't talk to us honestly, or tell us that
what we're feeling is bad and wrong? Books often hold a special
place when we're young (as The Story of Ferdinand did for me),
giving us hope.  By writing YA fiction, I both heal my own past and
help others understand their present.

How did you meet your agent?
In the process of writing my first novel, Rainbow Boys, I took
workshops to improve my writing.  My first instructor, Barbara
Eastman, told me, "Keep in touch.  Let me know when you finish the
manuscript and I'll recommend you to my agent."  Five years and 20
drafts later, I finally had a manuscript ready to send out. Miriam
Altshuler of the Miriam Altshuler Literary Agency loved the
manuscript.  She saw it as a novel about tolerance and acceptance,
and said she wanted to see it published so her kids could read it
when they grew to be teenagers.  For a year she shopped it to about
a half-dozen publishers.  During that time she kept telling me, "We
have to find the publisher who's going to love it and get behind
it." And we did.

What is your writing ritual?
I write anytime, anywhere, and everywhere.  My preference is to
write longhand, in the morning, in a quiet place.  Then I type it
up, print it out, and revise longhand.   It's a tremendously
inefficient process, but it's the only way I can do it.  I wish I
could compose at the keyboard, but my muse won't do that.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Write about universal themes (love, friendship, family, coming of
age) in such a way that both Latino and non-Latino readers will feel
included.  And use Spanish sparingly—for flavor, like spice, not so
much that it will overpower the story and exclude non-Spanish-
speaking readers.

To read excerpts of Rainbow Boys and Rainbow High visit
www.alexsanchez.com
Obtain Rainbow Boys
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0689841000/marcelalandre-
20/002-4693467-0286408?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
Obtain Rainbow High
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0689854773/marcelalandre-
20/002-4693467-0286408?dev-t=mason-wrapper%26camp=2025%
26link_code=xm2
Find past Author Spotlights http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
6/24/04, 7/1/04 - An Insider's Guide for Writers of Color Seminar

Finding the right publisher is difficult for any writer, but writers
of color face unique challenges--and opportunities. Topics discussed
include: the significance of writers of color to mainstream
publishers; writing in another language vs. English; dealing with
the label of "Writer of Color"; how to find a good agent and editor
in a non-diverse industry; overcoming cultural and social barriers,
especially for women of color; and the most important thing you can
do to ensure the future success of diverse publishing.

Note: In order to attend this seminar, you must apply to and attend
the VONA Summer Writing Workshop. Limited seating is available. As
recommended in the August/September 2003 issue of the Latinidad
newsletter, VONA (The Voices of Our Nation Arts Foundation) is a non-
  profit organization dedicated to nurturing developing writers
through the traditions, perspectives, and aesthetics of writers of
color.

Where: VONA Summer Writing Workshop, University of San Francisco,
San Francisco, CA
When: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., Thursday 6/24 and Thursday 7/1
To apply: http://www.vona-voices.org, click on "Application
Procedure"
Questions?: Contact Wendy Barnes at info@..., (415) 422-
5488

Invite me to speak http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Upcoming workshops http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
********************
For more writing opportunities, including lists of agents and
editors seeking Latino writers, visit www.marcelalandres.com and
click on Newsletter, then click on Writing Opportunities.
********************
AGENT MIRIAM GODERICH SEEKS LATINO WRITERS
Cuban-born Miriam Goderich of Dystel & Goderich Literary Management
is looking for work from talented Latinos and Latinas. Our agency is
interested in commercial and literary fiction and nonfiction about
people, places and themes that have resonance for Latinos in the
U.S. We'd love to find the next great Latina chick lit novelist or
author of serious literary fiction. We're interested in diverse
topics such as science, history, psychology, biography/memoir,
business, self-help, New Age, and just about anything else you can
think of. If you have a novel or non-fiction project that falls into
any of those categories, please send us a query letter, an outline,
and a couple of sample chapters. Make sure everything is double
spaced and that you include return postage with your submission.
And, please visit our web site at http:\\www.dystel.com for more
information about our agency, our agents, and our clients. Our
contact information is: Dystel & Goderich Literary Management, One
Union Square West, Suite 904, New York, NY 10003; 212-627-9100.
********************
JUNE IS LATINO BOOKS MONTH
AAP formed the Publishing Latino Voices for America Task Force in
2002 in response to the burgeoning market of books by and for
Latinos with a mission to address those issues that are of
particular concern to publishers in this market. For information on
the committee and for a committee list visit www.publishers.org. AAP
will launch Latino Books Month in June, 2004, to celebrate the wide
variety of books by and for Latinos, in English and Spanish. The
task force has created a Latino Summer Reading List that can serve
as a sampling of what is available, as well as a 36-page Publishing
Latino Voices for America brochure with information on a broader
listing of titles by and for Latinos. For more information on Latino
Books Month, click here:
http://www.publishers.org/press/releases.cfm?
PressReleaseArticleID=193. To view and download the Latino Summer
Reading List, click here:
http://www.publishers.org/about/pdf/SummerReadingList.doc
********************
POETRY/FICTION AND NON-FICTION CLASSES
The New School, New York City
Publishing Success: Poetry, Tuesdays, June 8-22, 6:00-8:50 pm, $300
Publishing Success: Fiction and Literary Nonfiction, June 29-July
13, 6:00-8:50 pm, $300
Come join Amy Holman's new publishing classes at The New School and
find out how easy it is to get published and build your audience.
Writers she has taught have gone on to publish in The Bitter
Oleander, Poetry, Virginia Quarterly Review, Mississippi Review,
Literal Latte, The MacGuffin, Red Hen Press and BridgeWorks. In
these classes, emerging authors learn to analyze the editorial
interests of magazines and book publishers and match their own
styles to print and online journals and presses. Topics for
discussion include copyright and contracts, cover and query letters,
chapbooks, print and electronic formats, readings and performances,
literary agents, conferences and colonies and strategies for
success. Go to the current summer course offerings by department,
using this link: www.nsu.newschool.edu/03_deptcour.htm. Amy's
classes are listed in Writing, under "Special Topics in Writing".
Registrations open until three days before each class begins. To
learn more about Amy Holman, Literary Consultant, please visit her
web site www.amyholman.com.
********************
MEMOIR WRITING CLASS
Gotham Writers Workshop, New York City
Stephanie Elizondo Griest, author of Around the Bloc: My Life in
Moscow, Beijing, and Havana (Villard/Random House, 2004), will be
teaching two memoir writing classes this summer through the Gotham
Writer's Workshop:
1) Wednesday, June 9 from 6-7pm – FREE workshop at Coliseum Books on
42nd Street opposite Bryant Park, between 5th and 6th.
2) Every Monday from July 12 - September 20 from 7 - 10 p.m. -- 10-
week memoir writing class at the Friends School at 222 E. 16th St.
(between 2nd and 3rd Ave). Tuition $395; returning Gotham Writers
students $345.
To register and for more information visit:
http://www.writingclasses.com/home/ME.html. For more about
Stephanie, visit her web site www.aroundthebloc.com.
********************
PINK INK: THE QUEER BOOK EXPO
Saturday, June 12, New York City
The second annual Pink Ink: The Queer Book Expo is set for Saturday,
June 12, at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community
Center in New York. The day-long event will boast an exhibit hall
for publishers and educational programs for writers, such as
a "Negotiating a Better Book Contract" workshop. Writers will also
have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with agents. Other
highlights include an hour-long conversation with two legendary
writers of lesbian pulp fiction, Ann Bannon and Marijane Meaker, and
a marathon Pride poetry reading with emerging and established LGBT
poets. To register and for more information visit
http://www.publishingtriangle.org/pinkink.asp
********************
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA CONFERENCE
Early registration deadline: June 15 (there is a discount if you
register early)
Conference date: July 28-31, Dallas, Texas
Enhance your writing and knowledge of the ins and outs of publishing
at more than 100 workshops; get the inside track and let your voice
be heard at panels and round-tables featuring publishing
professionals; schedule a one-on-one pitch meeting with an acquiring
editor or literary agent; attend parties and network with the stars
of romance fiction; and be a part of RWA's massive, 450-author
strong "Readers for Life" charity book signing. To register and for
more information visit http://www.rwanational.org.
********************
TEEN PRIDE READING WITH JULIE ANNE PETERS AND ALEX SANCHEZ
Date: Tuesday, June 22
Time: 3:30 PM
Description: Author of Keeping You a Secret and the forthcoming
Luna, Julie Anne Peters will read with Alex Sanchez, author of
Rainbow Boys and Rainbow High. Space is limited, pre-register for
this event by calling (212) 732-8186. Sponsored by: the NASDAQ
Disaster Relief Fund.
Location: New Amsterdam Branch, New York Public Library, 9 Murray
Street, (212) 732-8186
********************
BOOK PROMOTION 101: CRASH COURSE FOR AUTHORS
Registration deadline: July 9
Workshop date: July 18, San Francisco, CA
Book Promotion 101 includes: Crafting a 30-second "elevator pitch",
presenting pitches with group feedback, brainstorming publicity and
promotional ideas for each book, three-minute readings with group
feedback, drafting a marketing plan, "Ask the Experts" roundtable
lunch with guest speakers. To register and for more information
visit www.bookpromotion101.com.
********************
TAOS SUMMER WRITERS' CONFERENCE
July 10-16, Taos, NM
The conference offers information and support for beginning and
experienced writers. There will be 22 workshops on topics such as
The Novel, Poetry, Memoir, Short Stories, Travel Narrative,
Publishing, Screenwriting, Craft, Spirituality and Healing. Faculty
members include Lisa D. Chavez, Levi Romero and Antonya Nelson. To
register and for more information visit http://www.unm.edu/~taosconf
********************
MYSTERY WRITERS CONFERENCE
July 15-18, Corte Madera, CA
The four-day Book Passage Mystery Writers Conference has a strong
tradition of great authors, teachers, and panelists. It covers
everything mystery writers need—from developing ideas and writing
skills, to finding a publisher. Students work closely with mystery
writers, agents, editors, and publishers as well as with
investigators and crime fighting professionals. Faculty members
include authors Martin Cruz Smith and Carl Hiassen and agent Arielle
Eckstut. To register and for more information visit
http://www.bookpassage.com.
********************
WALT DISNEY WRITING FELLOWSHIP
Deadline: July 16, 2004
Walt Disney will be offering Fellowships in the feature film and
television areas through The Walt Disney Studios and ABC
Entertainment, respectively. No previous experience is necessary;
however, writing samples are required. Fellows will each be provided
a salary of $50,000 for a one-year period tentatively scheduled to
begin in January 2005. For more information visit
http://www.abctalentdevelopment.com/html/writing_fellowship_mainpage.
htm
********************
WANTED: READERS TO REVIEW BY REASON OF PASSION, A NOVEL
Deadline: September 30
Aida L. Irizarry, a Latina writer based in New York, seeks 25 new
voices to review her novel, currently in e-book format. Your input
will help Aida decide whether to publish the novel in paperback. Set
in New York and Puerto Rico, By Reason of Passion looks at domestic
violence. A delicate subject on which to write, the novel is an
uplifting tale of two lovers who find each other across centuries to
become soul mates once again. Not a time travel or occult novel.
Information and sample chapters are available at www.aidairiz.com.
For publishers or agents only: a complete proposal is available upon
request to aiauthor@....
********************
IDA B. IN BOOKSTORES SOON
Hey All! I just wanted to let you know that my new novel, Ida B.,
will be in bookstores soon, and I'll be on tour! Early reviews for
Ida B. have been outstanding, and I'm sure this book will join my
others on the bestseller's list. Please visit my website to get more
information. I'll be visiting Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago,
Cleveland, Dallas, Delaware, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New
York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. I hope you
can come out to hear me at one of my book readings. Book Club Alert!
If you're located in one of the cities I'm visiting, I'd love to
stop by your meeting! Send me an email and let's see what we can
arrange.
Karen E. Quinones Miller
Author of "Satin Doll" (Simon & Schuster, July 2001)
"I'm Telling" (Simon & Schuster, July 2002)
"Using What You Got" (Simon & Schuster, July 2003)
"Ida B." (Simon & Schuster, August 2004)
www.KarenEQuinonesMiller.com
********************
SEEKING NY-BASED LATINAS TO START A FICTION WRITERS GROUP!
Lizz Aviles is looking for aspiring Latina fiction writers who are
interested in meeting once a month in New York City to discuss and
critique our short fiction in a supportive and constructive
atmosphere that inspires and encourages our unique perspective and
dual Latina/American existence. The nature of this group will be
both social and serious, with some discussion of works by other
Latina writers such as Judith Ortiz Cofer's "The Meaning of
Consuelo," and Loida Maritza Perez's "Geographies of Home." If your
goal is improving your work to get published, and honing a unique
Latina voice while appreciating the strength and importance of
Latina writer camaraderie, then please contact Lizz Aviles, 212-876-
8910 (phone), writingrican@... (email). Include Latina Fiction
in the subject line.  Please introduce yourself, your writing
interests, the types of writers you read, and why you'd be
interested in joining this group. A brief bio: Lizz is a 32 year old
New York born and raised Puerto Rican, living in El Barrio (East
Harlem). For the last seven years, she has been working as a non-
fiction, self-help publicist for one of the top U.S. publishers. She
has participated in a number of writing workshops such as Gotham's
and the New School but would prefer to participate with women from
similar backgrounds that can relate to writing from this cultural
perspective. *This is a New York based Latina only group, writing
primarily in English.
********************
LATINA DEBUT AUTHOR STARTS NEWSLETTER FOR ASPIRING WRITERS
INTERESTED IN EMERGING INSPIRATIONAL/CHRISTIAN FICTION MARKET
Xenia Ruiz, a new Latina author, recently signed a two-book contract
with Walk Worthy Press, an imprint of Warner Books. Her debut novel,
Choose Me, will be released in 2005.  Ruiz has created an online
newsletter, For Writers Who Have Given Up When The Rejection Letters
Are Too Much, geared toward Inspirational/Christian Fiction writers
and authors.  The goal of Christian Fiction is to inspire and uplift
readers spiritually while entertaining them with a good story.  The
market is dominated by white Christian authors, but in recent years
more authors of color, specifically African-American, have emerged.
Ruiz would like to see a similar pool of Latino Christian authors.
She is the first Latina author signed by Walk Worthy Press, whose
clientele is predominately African-American.  She hopes her
newsletter will reach other Latino writers interested in
Inspirational/Christian fiction writing. For more information about
signing up, go to
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/xruiz_inspirational_fiction/. For more
information about Xenia Ruiz, visit her webpage
http://laequis.bravehost.com and website
http://www.geocities.com/laequis222/Mypage.html.
********************
MACAVELLI PRESS SEEKS NEW AFRICAN AMERICAN FICTION & NON-FICTION
CONTEMPORARY WRITERS
Macavelli Press, an urban small press located in San Francisco seeks
fiction novels and non-fiction novels that lift the veil off some
facet of urban life (inner-city, hip-hop, love and romance,
autobiographies, etc). We are currently looking for contemporary
fiction and non-fiction manuscripts. Manuscripts should center on
female or male African American characters. They can be about inner-
city life, love and romance, hip-hop fiction or autobiography. Some
authors who create the kinds of novels and characters that Macavelli
Press is looking for are Sister Souljah, Zane, Anita Diggs, Terri
Woods, E. Lyn Harris, Omar Tyree and Eric Jerome Dickey. Word count
of your book should be 80-120,000 words. Books may be written from
the first or third person point of view. Novels will be printed in
Trade Paperback format; Size 5 by 8. Please submit a one to two page
synopsis and three sample chapters or complete manuscript to: Senior
Editor, Macavelli Press, 1550 California Street, Suite 6-262, San
Francisco, California 94109. To learn more about Macavelli Press you
may visit us on the web at www.macavellipress.com and be sure to
read our mission statement and browse current titles. Macavelli
Titles are distributed world-wide by Baker & Taylor, Culture Plus,
A& B and www.amazon.com.
********************
BLACK AMERICANS IN PUBLISHING
BAIP (Black Americans in Publishing), an organization which supports
the advancement of black professionals and aspirants in all areas of
the publishing industry, welcomes announcements from Latino authors
promoting their books, contests, calls for submissions, or other
literary events. BAIP's members include editors, publicists, agents,
and other publishing professionals, so networking with them would be
an effective way to catch the attention of publishing insiders who
are interested in diverse authors, and are willing to offer
practical advice and guidance. Announcements and queries should be
emailed to Adaobi Obi Tulton, Vice President of BAIP, at
vicepresident@.... For more information about BAIP please visit
http://www.baip.org/.
********************
THE HOUSEKEEPER'S DIARY
Lisa Alvarado is a poet, performer, and installation artist,
focusing on identity, spirit, and the body. She is the founder of La
Onda Negra Press, and is author of Reclamo and The Housekeeper's
Diary, originally a book of poetry and now a one-woman performance,
and is the recipient of grants from the Department of Cultural
Affairs, The NEA, and the Ragdale Foundation. The Housekeeper's
Diary, which dealt with her experiences as a domestic for one of
Chicago's wealthiest families, is for sale via her website:
www.lisaalvarado.net. She has performed through out the U.S. and in
Ajijic, Jalisco in Mexico. Lisa and her work have been featured in
The Chicago Tribune, Latino USA/National Public Radio, and Public
Radio International. Luis J. Rodriguez on Lisa and her work: "She is
a fine poet, able to addresses deep concerns in crisp, trenchant
language . . . The Housekeeper's Diary . . . casts its spell on
you . . . You will never see domestic work with the same eyes." To
contact Lisa: alvaradomccain@..., www.lisaalvarado.net.
********************
POETRY & ESSAY CONTEST
Michael Levy, author, poet and philosopher, runs a Quarterly Poetry
& Essay contest. Now in its fourth year, the contest winners and
three runners up are published for three months at Pointoflife.com.
The winners are also published in the monthly "Point of Life Global
Newsletter," with over 3,000 subscribers. There's no fee to enter,
and all winners receive a copy of "Enjoy Yourself - It's Later Than
You Think" See details at: http://www.pointoflife.com
********************
PLEASE SHARE
If you have an announcement about a writing contest, job opening,
call for submissions, book publication, or literary event, email it
to me at marcelalandres@...
********************
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm and tell me what doesn't work
and why. If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please
credit Latinidad and include a link to www.marcelalandres.com.
********************
Changing the world one email at a time,
Marcela Landres
www.marcelalandres.com

"Reading is for the mind what exercise is for the body."
--Richard Steele

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003 Marcela Landres

Latinidad Newsletter – May 2004

Contents:
1. Saludos: Creative Nonfiction
2. Q&A: Editor Genoveva Llosa
3. Recommendations: Telling the Story by Peter Rubie
4. Author Spotlight: Luis Alberto Urrea
5. Upcoming Workshops: "Choosing a Literary Agent" Panel
6. Writing Opportunities: Creative Nonfiction Fellowship

1. Saludos
This month, Latinidad focuses on creative nonfiction, also known as
narrative nonfiction or the "nonfiction novel", which is how Truman
Capote described In Cold Blood, the book that is universally
acknowledged to have forged this genre. Some highlights of this
month's issue include: an interview with an editor seeking Latino
creative nonfiction writers in Q&A; a creative nonfiction primer in
Recommendations; and a creative nonfiction fellowship, prize, and
call for submissions in Writing Opportunities.
	 Speaking of writing opportunities, for your convenience the
Writing Opportunities page of the Newsletter section of
www.marcelalandres.com has been reorganized into seven lists:
Literary Agents Seeking Latino Writers; Film Agents Seeking Latino
Scriptwriters; Editors Seeking Latino Writers; Calls for
Submissions; Writing Contests and Awards; Conferences and
Residencies; and Author Tours/Literary Events. Additionally,
Latinidad has been trimmed down to six columns instead of nine in
order to make it easier for you to digest and—more importantly—to
use. FAQ, Success Stories, and News to Use will continue to be
displayed on the web site; I welcome your questions, success
stories, and noteworthy articles, so keep them coming in. Let me
know what you think of these changes by either filling out the
Newsletter Survey (located in the Newsletter section of
www.marcelalandres.com) or by emailing me at
marcelalandres@....

2. Q&A
Genoveva Llosa is an assistant editor at Crown Publishers, where she
focuses on general nonfiction titles. Crown, a division of Random
House, publishes some of today's best popular fiction and nonfiction
books by both established and rising authors. In addition, Genoveva
is one of the few Latina editors in the book business, and is keen
on finding Latino writers.

Why is Crown a great home for Latino writers?
Crown's nonfiction program is known for its broad scope—publishing
quality trade titles in areas such as popular history, current
affairs, politics, memoir, biography, narrative nonfiction, popular
culture, business, and journalistic narratives among many others—and
for its market responsiveness. Three Rivers Press, the paperback
imprint of the Crown Publishing Group (which release reprints of
Crown hardcover books as well as original soft cover titles), also
publishes in areas that include humor, self-help, and health. The
wide range of our publishing program means lots of room for a
multitude of perspectives and fresh voices. For Latino authors it
also means an opportunity to express their writing and journalistic
talent in a huge variety of genres and topics. Also, Crown has
already become a good home for African-American authors, publishing
young and rising talents such as Aaron McGruder, Kevin Powell, Sarah
Jones, and Donnell Alexander, and reaching the African-American
market. We hope to replicate this success in the Latino market.

Which Latino authors has Crown published?
Our list of Latino authors include Laura Esquivel (Swift as Desire
and La Ley del Amor, Crown); Tony Medina and Louis Reyes Rivera (Bum
Rush the Page: A Def Poetry Jam, Three Rivers Press); Sandra Guzman
(The Latina Bible, Three Rivers Press); Juan Enriquez (As the Future
Catches You, Crown Business); Linda Escobar (Positive Discipline: A
Teacher's A-Z Guide, Three Rivers Press), and Marta Moreno Vega
(When the Spirits Dance Mambo, Three Rivers Press).

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
In general, we look for manuscripts that maintain a cohesive and
nuanced narrative thread while at the same time providing critical
and rigorous insights into the main subject, topic, or `world'
explored in the book—all delivered in an accessible way. More
specifically, we are looking for nonfiction narratives driven by
strong, unique voices; journalistic narratives of contemporary local
and global issues; and narratives that give voice to marginalized or
contrarian points of view.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
Besides the obvious—writing skillfully and approaching a topic in an
original way—writers should not underestimate the importance of a
well-crafted proposal.  To avoid the reject pile they should
anticipate the most pressing questions editors ask when considering
a book: who will read it and why. A detailed proposal that explains
the relevance of the book's idea, realistically explores its
potential readers, and describes the book's promise in relation to
those of other books in the marketplace can help immensely. And
also: they should include one or two sample chapters! At the end of
the day, editors want to get a feel for a writer's voice and style.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Writers must become the best promoters of their work: they must
understand the field they are writing about to a fault and create
visibility and a strong network within that field and the world at
large. The end goal is to use this expertise and these connections
to relentlessly promote their ideas—and hopefully in the end promote
a book—in the mainstream. In short, developing a great tolerance for
self-promotion is one of the keys to becoming happily published.

Send submissions to: Genoveva Llosa, Crown Publishers, 1745
Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Crown's web site: www.crownpublishing.com
Click here for more interviews with editors seeking Latino writers
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. Recommendations
Peter Rubie is a respected literary agent, a former Fleet Street
journalist, as well as the author of the useful and unique creative
nonfiction primer Telling the Story: How to Write and Sell Narrative
Nonfiction. This guide is a must-have if you have an idea for a
creative nonfiction book and don't know where to begin, or you've
written one and want to find the right publisher, or you have a book
about to be published and need marketing tips. Telling the Story
offers advice on: determining whether your idea is a magazine
article or a book; conducting research, including how to take
effective notes; and writing a winning proposal. Also included for
the reader to use as models are two real creative nonfiction
proposals that were sold in auction to major houses. All creative
nonfiction writers should add Telling the Story to their personal
library.

Obtain Telling the Story
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0060535288/marcelalandre-
20/103-5684390-8170264?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
Visit Peter Rubie's web site
http://www.prlit.com/rubie/rubiebooks.htm
Offer a recommendation marcelalandres@...
Click here for more recommendations
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

4. Author Spotlight
Annie Dillard meets Truman Capote in Luis Alberto Urrea's The
Devil's Highway. Like Dillard, Urrea's description of the natural
landscape is startling, fierce, and artlessly poetic. Capote's In
Cold Blood established the creative nonfiction genre, while the
Devil's Highway has been hailed by Rudolfo Anaya as a new
genre, "Frontera tragic drama." Label it creative nonfiction or
Frontera tragic drama, the only label that will be sure to stick
is "damned good writing." The true story of 26 Mexican men who tried
to illegally enter the U.S. via Arizona's deadliest stretch of
desert, The Devil's Highway succeeds in putting a human face not
only on the nebulous figure of the illegal immigrant, but also—
surprisingly—on La Pinche Migra. Every page is riveting,
particularly where Urrea reconstructs the men's torment by
scrupulously detailing the six stages of heat death, evoking the
passage in Sebastian Junger's The Perfect Storm which describes the
process of drowning.

To read an excerpt and reviews, and to find a list of appearances,
visit Luis Alberto Urrea's web site http://www.luisurrea.com/
Obtain The Devil's Highway
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0316746711/marcelalandre-
20/103-5684390-8170264?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
Click here for more author reviews/interviews
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

5. Upcoming Workshops
5/3/04 - "Choosing a Literary Agent" Panel
Find out when you are actually ready for an agent; the steps to
getting an agent; preparing for your interview with potential
agents; choosing an agent that is right for you; and how to approach
agencies. The evening will consist of a moderated discussion on
these topics followed by Q&A with the audience. Among the invited
panelists are Johanna Castillo, literary agent with Sanford J.
Greenburger Associates, Inc, Adriana Lopez, Editor of Críticas
Magazine, and Marcela Landres, Editorial Consultant and former
editor at Simon & Schuster. Suggested donation of $8, no
reservations necessary. Sponsored by AHA.

Where: PS 122, 150 First Avenue, East 9th Street, New York, NY
When: 6:30 p.m., Monday, May 3, 2004

Invite me to speak http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Click here to see a full list of upcoming workshops
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

6. Writing Opportunities
Please forward inquiries to the contacts listed below.
********************
CREATIVE NONFICTION FELLOWSHIP
Deadline: May 15
The Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, a working retreat for
writers, visual artists, and composers, is accepting applications
for The Goldfarb Family Fellowship for Nonfiction Writers. This will
be a fully funded two-week residency--valued at $1400--where a
nonfiction writer may concentrate solely on his or her creative
work. As with all residencies at the VCCA, writers will be provided
a private bedroom, separate studio, and three prepared meals a day
in a community of twenty other artists. To apply and for more info
visit http://www.vcca.com/newdir.html.
********************
$500 CREATIVE NONFICTION JOURNAL PRIZE
Deadline: August 1
The journal Creative Nonfiction seeks essays for a special issue
devoted to all aspects of the game of baseball, to be published
concurrently as a book in Southern Illinois University's Writing
Baseball Series. For guidelines and more information visit
http://www.creativenonfiction.org/
********************
JOURNAL SEEKS CREATIVE NONFICTION
Ink Pot, a print journal with an on-line presence, is accepting
submissions for creative nonfiction including literary memoir,
literary essay, satire, parody, literary diary, and literary
journalism. Ink Pot recently published Tattoo Lady, Mother, and Me,
a work of creative nonfiction by Sandra Ramos O'Briant
http://www.literarypotpourri.com/004_04/es_01.html. Please visit our
web site, www.litpot.com for detailed guidelines.
********************
BLACK AMERICANS IN PUBLISHING, INC. HOSTS ANNUAL CAREERS IN
PUBLISHING FAIR
MAY 15, New York NY
Black Americans In Publishing, Inc., in conjunction with the Borough
of Manhattan Community College Writing and Literature Degree Program
and the Center for Career Development, will be holding its 2004 Book
and Magazine Publishing Career Fair on Saturday, May 15, 2004, from
10:00AM to 6:00PM. The fair will be free to BMCC students with ID,
$5.00 for other students with ID, and $10.00 for the general public.
Throughout the day we will have panels that focus on various aspects
of publishing, both introducing and educating attendees about the
publishing field, and a panel that focuses specifically on how to
prepare for, begin, and further a career in publishing. You will
also be able to meet with representatives from Human Resources
departments from various publishing companies who are interested in
meeting you and talking to you about their companies and the
opportunities they have to offer.
The fair will be held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College,
199 Chambers Street, New York, NY, 10007. A portion of the proceeds
from the Fair will be used to award a scholarship to a deserving
student enrolled in Borough of Manhattan Community College, an award
which will be administered through the Center for Career Development
at Borough of Manhattan Community College.
BAIP encourages all who aspire to work in the industry to come to
this event. We especially hope that those with concentrations in
English and journalism will attend. We will have more information
about the fair as the date approaches. Check the BAIP website for
updates http://www.baip.org. Want to attend? Contact
vicepresident@....
********************
SANTA FE WRITERS CONFERENCE
Application Deadline: June 15
For twenty years the Santa Fe Writers Conference has brought writers
together from across the country to devote time and attention to
their art. In workshops, private conferences, readings, panels,
craft talks, and informal discussions, accomplished writers share
their experience with those learning or refining their fiction,
nonfiction, and poetry. Agents, editors, and publishers help
acquaint new writers with the realities of creating and marketing
their work; participants absorb a wealth of new ideas and
information, and are able to return to their writing with renewed
energy and insight.
To register and more info visit
http://www.santafewritersconference.com/
********************
ATTENTION ASPIRING MYSTERY WRITERS
Deadline: July 1st
Mysterious Press/Warner Books announces the 1st Sara Ann Freed
Memorial Award for a first mystery novel. Mysterious Press plans to
award a publishing contract to one unpublished writer in the mystery
genre. This award will honor the beloved Mysterious Press editor
Sara Ann Freed, who passed away in June 2003. Read more at
http://www.twbookmark.com/mystery/saraannfreed.html.
********************
$1,010.00 FICTION PRIZE
Deadline: July 1
Word Smitten, an international literary e-zine provides interviews,
reviews, and news of interest to the publishing and writing
communities. We invite all writers of literary fiction to enter this
annual competition. The Rule: Write a short story that requires
exactly 1,010 words (excludes the title and footnotes). It's why we
call this unique short story contest The TenTen. For guidelines and
more info visit http://www.wordsmitten.com
********************
YO SOY LATINA APPEARS OFF-BROADWAY
Latino Flavored Productions Inc. presents Tuesday, July 13, 2004
through Sunday, August 01, 2004
Length: 1 hr 30 mins
Intermission: None
Seats are assigned by SmartTix based up best availability at the
completion of your order. 6 ethnically and culturally diverse
Latinas attend a "What is a Latina?" seminar only to find out the
facilitator hasn't arrived and they wind up trying to answer the
question on their own. After 3 years of sold out Off-Off Broadway
shows and over 50 college performances including Harvard, Brown and
Duke, these Latinas are finally bringing their inspiring message to
Off-Broadway. You don't want to miss what these women have to say!
And you don't have to be a Latina to experience the journey...This
play is written entirely in English. For Group Discounts of 10 or
more tickets call 212-868-4444. Buy Tickets now at www.smarttix.com
********************
SEEKING INFO FOR REVISION OF LATINO HOLIDAY BOOK
My first book, The Latino Holiday Book, just turned four years old
and as such, my publisher decided it was time for a revision. I will
be adding four new chapters to my book, but more importantly, I will
expand the coverage of Latino holiday traditions to include those of
Colombians and Dominicans. The four chapters will include the
historical celebrations of each group. I will incorporate religious,
e.g. Christmas, as well as cultural celebrations too. The other two
chapters will focus on Mother's Day and Dia de los Ninos. Any hints,
tips, information, people to interview, etc. that you all think of
is greatly appreciated.  For instance, what are specific Mother's
Day rituals that Latinos do that make the celebration unique to our
culture? Muchisimas gracias, Valerie Menard vmenard@...
********************
POET TRINIDAD SÁNCHEZ, JR
Internationally known Chicano poet Trinidad Sánchez, Jr. is author
of the best seller Why Am I So Brown?, MARCH/Abrazo Press, Chicago,
Ill. and Poems by Father & Son, Pecan Grove Press, St. Mary
University, San Antonio, Texas. This collection of poetry includes
poems by his father, Trinidad V. Sánchez who was also a poet are now
in their sixth printing and are available by writing to Adela y
Abigail Productions, 3480 Grape Street, Denver, CO 80207 or writing
to trinidadjr43@.... Both books have been used as a text
books by Universities and High Schools. His work is featured on
several web sites most recently www.spitjawreview.org. He continues
to lecture and read around the country and is involved with the
local literary community of Denver. Poet Ted Vaca, Coordinator of
Poetry Slam in Denver, has called him "One of the best Chicano Poet
in Denver!" He lives in Denver with his poet wife, Regina Chávez y
Sánchez.
********************
RED DRESS INK BRINGS CHICK LIT TO SPANISH-LANGUAGE READERS
Chick Lit has seen an unprecedented surge in popularity over the
past three years and now Red Dress Ink, an imprint of Harlequin
Enterprises Ltd., is bringing fresh, exciting Spanish-language chick-
lit novels to North America. Red Dress Ink will launch their Spanish-
language program in May 2004 with seven popular titles: Cita sin
anesthesia by Lisa Cash, Sarah en Los Angeles by Cathy Yardley,
Confesiones de una ex novia by Lynda Curnyn, Un novio para Jane by
Melissa Senate, Sola en la ciudad by Wendy Markham, A punto de . . .
by Ariella Papa and Fashionista by Lynn Messina. For more
information about the Spanish-language program, contact Tania
Charzewski, Public Relations Manager, at
tania_charzewski@.... For more information about Harlequin,
visit www.eharlequin.com.
********************
LATINO WRITER CREATES NEWSLETTER FOR WRITERS
I have created a group/newsletter for anyone who is interested in
reading for fun. I am going to be submitting my writings on this
newsletter as well as anyone who wants to post their writings. If
you have anything you want to post email it to me and I'll put it in
the newsletter. I am really hoping that this will take off. Anyone
is welcomed to submit anything type of writing as long as it's not
in bad taste. Also I got my website up and running so check it out
too. Have a great day.
Miguel Reynaga a*k*a Max M. Power
http://groups.msn.com/WritingwithPower
www.maxmpower.com
********************
PLEASE SHARE
If you have an announcement about a writing contest, job opening,
call for submissions, book publication, or literary event that you'd
like to share, send it to me at marcelalandres@...
********************
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey and tell me what doesn't work and why:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm
********************
Click here to find more writing opportunities
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id24.htm

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
Latinidad and include a link to http://www.marcelalandres.com/.

"What is false in the science of facts may be true in the science of
values."
--Santayana

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Latinidad Newsletter – April 2004

Contents:
1. Saludos: Poetry Month
2. Q&A: Publisher Ram Devineni, Rattapallax Press
3. FAQ: Appropriate agent behavior
4. Success Stories: Luis Larios
5. Recommendations: Poetry magazine
6. News to Use: Submission tips
7. Author Spotlight: Willie Perdomo
8. Upcoming Workshops: Oye Como Va Latino Writing Series
9. Writing Opportunities: Mexican magazine seeks poetry

1. Saludos
April is Poetry Month. As frustrating as the publishing process can
be for writers, poets face the additional challenge of writing in a
genre few book buyers seem interested in reading. Large publishing
houses avoid poetry collections unless the poets are very well
established, which is why most poetry collections are published by
small presses. If you write only poetry, don't despair; there are
numerous presses fiercely devoted to verse (see Q&A section for one
example, Rattapallax Press). If you write poetry in addition to other
book-length kinds of writing (i.e. novels, narrative non-fiction),
consider your poems a stepping stone towards getting your other work
published. Submit your poems to journals, magazines, and contests
because publication and awards will raise your profile in the
literary community and make you more appealing to agents and editors.

2. Q&A
Ram Devineni is the publisher of Rattapallax Press, a cutting-edge
literary press looking for extraordinary modern poetry and prose that
reflect the diversity of world cultures. They are the only publisher
of poetry to include CDs of authors performing their work with every
book they publish. In addition to their book arm, they also publish a
literary magazine. Unlike most publishers, Rattapallax's author list
and editorial staff boasts numerous Latinos.

Why is Rattapallax Press a great home for Latino writers?
Rattapallax is widely distributed in North and South America and the
only literary journal to include a CD featuring the poets. We are
also in Brazil. So, we focus a lot on Spanish and Portuguese
translations and printing Latin America poets. Also, half our
editorial staff is either Brazilian or Latin American. Some of our
editors include Willie Perdomo, Edwin Torres, Flavia Rocha, Idra
Novey, and Rodrigo Rojas.

Which Latino authors has Rattapallax Press published?
We recently did an entire issue on New Brazilian Poetry and our
forthcoming issue focuses on the Centenary of Neruda and a section on
nine young poets from Chile. Some of the poets we have featured
include Martín Espada, Marjorie Agosin, Manoel De Barros, Fernando
Sánchez Sorondo, John Rodriguez, Nicomedes Suárez-Araúz, Cecilia
Vicuña, Ivón Gordon Vailakis. A poem by Rodrigo Toscano was selected
for the Best of American Poetry 2004.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
I have recently published Willie Perdomo's collection, Smoking
Lovely. I would not recommend sending full length manuscripts until
you have been in the magazine at least three times.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
The poems need to be well crafted and capture the music in the
language--Spanish or English.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Be persistent and promote your work. Also, pursue ventures other then
poetry; I mean work on film-scripts, plays, lyrics, and collaborate
with other artists. The more you are diversified, the greater an
audience you can reach. Lastly, get some objective, unbiased opinions
about your work because that will determine your focus. Maybe you may
not be The New Yorker type material and maybe you are more of a
performance poet.

Ram Devineni's contact info: Rattapallax Press, 532 La Guardia Place,
Suite 353, New York, NY 10012, info@...
Visit web site for submission guidelines: http://www.rattapallax.com/
Find more Q&A http://www.marcelalandres.com/id60.htm

3. FAQ
Q: I've been involved with two agents. The first one submitted my
book to a major publisher, which turned it down, and the agent
dropped me. That agent never sent me a contract. I then contacted an
editor at another major publishing house, who requested I send my
work to him. I asked another agent if he would represent me. This
agent asked me to overnight him a partial manuscript, he loved it and
requested I send the complete manuscript. The next day, he forwarded
it to the editor. I asked the agent if he was going to send me a
contract. Three weeks later, I still haven't received one. Aren't
agents supposed to send your work to numerous publishers, not just
one? At this point, I don't feel as though I have agency
representation, because I haven't signed a contract. I feel like I'm
being put on hold by agents who seem interested and then suddenly
disinterested. Is this normal behavior for agents?
Jennifer

A: The right agent for you will believe enough in your work to sign
you to a formal agreement before he or she submits your work to
editors. Having said that, it seems common for agents to either test
the waters with a single submission or take on a client only after an
editor has expressed interest. But just because this behavior may be
common does not mean it is necessarily appropriate. An agent, like a
doctor or a lawyer, provides a service. You are the client, and if
you are not satisfied with the service being provided to you, you are
entitled to take your business elsewhere. Just be sure to officially
notify your current agent that you no longer wish him to represent
you and that you are seeking new representation. While you may be
tempted to forego the services of an agent, it is better to have an
agent on your side when you sign a book deal than to go through the
publishing process alone.

Ask a question marcelalandres@....
Find more FAQ http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

4. Success Stories
Congratulations to Luis Larios for having his work included in the Yo
hablo, yo soy anthology! If you get your work published because of a
writing opportunity you found in the Latinidad newsletter, tell me
and I'll feature your success story in a future issue.

"Dear Marcela,
I thought you might like reading this letter since it was your
newsletter that got me in contact with them in the first place. THANK
YOU!
Luis Larios

`Dear Luis Larios:
I am pleased to inform you that your submission for the proposed
anthology, Yo hablo, yo soy. ¡Y que!: New Perspectives from
Latinas/os on their Dynamic Language Experiences has been accepted
for inclusion in our multi-generic collection of writings. Your
story, "Mi padre" will be part of the full-sized work-in-progress we
submit to publishers later this year. . . .' "

Email Luis Larios larvend@...
Share your success story marcelalandres@...
Find more success stories http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

5. Recommendations
Poetry magazine was founded in 1912, making it the oldest monthly
magazine devoted to poetry in the English-speaking world. Arguably
the premiere journal of verse, their mission was then and remains now
to publish the best poetry written in any style, genre, or approach.
In a poll conducted by Writer's Digest, Poetry magazine was ranked
number one among journals poets most wish to see their bylines in.
While they have always printed major poets, between a quarter to a
third of the poets they publish are new writers appearing in the
magazine for the first time. They even sponsor a contest specifically
for promising young poets (see "$15,000 Ruth Lilly Poetry
Fellowships" in Writing Opportunities section). Submit your work to
Poetry, and you could join their ranks. For submission guidelines and
to subscribe visit their web site http://www.poetrymagazine.org

Offer a recommendation marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

6. News to Use
You're ready to take that big step--submitting your poetry to
magazines. But you're a newbie, and don't know where to begin, or all
your past submissions have resulted in nothing but a pile of
rejection letters. Where to turn for solid advice? These tips from
the Poet's Market section of writersdigest.com will lead you in the
right direction.

"Submit Your Poetry" article
http://www.writersdigest.com/articles/poetry_submitting.asp?
secondarycategory=Nonfiction+Subhome+Page
Suggest an article marcelalandres@...
Find more news to use http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

7. Author Spotlight
Willie Perdomo is a street-smart and book-smart poet whose work
evokes artists as diverse as DMX, Shakespeare, and Antonio Machado.
His collection, Smoking Lovely, flexes with power and wit, grabbing
you with authenticity and holding you with personality. It's no
wonder Perdomo has received lavish praise from Sapphire, Paul Beatty,
and Junot Diaz, among others. Also noteworthy is the art that graces
both the cover and the accompanying CD by street artist De La Vega.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
It would be Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke. It forces
you to have that dialogue with your inner self.

Why do you love to write poetry?
I guess because I'm a frustrated photographer and salsa singer.

How did you meet your agent?
Through Raymond Patterson. He was my Creative Writing teacher at City
College of New York, and my agent was looking for a P/T assistant at
the time.

What is your writing ritual?
Inspiration is a deadly thing to depend on. I write in transit
(planes and trains) and during the hours that Dracula comes out.
First long-hand to get started and then to the lap-top.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Don't give up after a few rejections.

Read reviews on author's web site
http://www.rattapallax.com/perdomo.htm
Obtain Smoking Lovely
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1892494612/marcelalandre-
20/103-5311339-0779031?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
Find past Author Spotlights http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

8. Upcoming Workshops

4/22/04--Oye Como Va Latino Writing Series, New York City, NY

I will discuss the publishing industry and how it has shaped Latino
Literature as an emergent genre. This event is open to the public,
space permitting. No registration is required.

Location: Room 720, Silver Center Building, between Waverly Place and
Washington Place, and between Washington Square East and Greene
Street.
Time: 4 p.m.

Invite me to speak http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Upcoming workshops http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

9. Writing Opportunities
Please forward inquiries to the contacts listed below.
____________________________________________________
REMINDER: $25,000 John T. Lupton "New Voices in Literature" Guidelines
Deadline: May 5th, 2004
Mission: Encourage writers to complete professionally written Query
Letters and Book Proposals for submission to literary agents and
publishers to maximize their opportunity to become published authors
through traditional means. Sponsored by the Books for Life
Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping
aspiring authors and poets help themselves. For more information and
guidelines visit http://www.booksforlifefoundation.com/.
____________________________________________________
WILLIE PERDOMO READS FROM SMOKING LOVELY
Wednesday, April 7, 6:30pm
Barnes & Noble, 18th & 5th Avenue, New York City, NY
Drop in for a riff.  Take one and pass.
http://www.rattapallax.com/perdomo.htm
____________________________________________________
BOOK PROMOTION 101 WORKSHOP
Registration deadline: April 12
Saturday, April 17, 2004, New York City
Guest speakers include Jacqueline Deval, publisher of Hearst Books,
author of Publicize Your Book!, and Lissa Warren, senior publicity
director, Da Capo Press/Perseus Books Group, author of The Savvy
Author's Guide to Book Publicity. To register and for more
information visit www.bookpromotion101.com.
____________________________________________________
MEXICAN MAGAZINE SEEKS POETRY
Deadline is April 15th.
Deriva, a Mexican literary magazine, will be publishing an issue on
Chicano Poetry and is looking for submissions. The editors are
seeking vibrant Chicano poetry that can reflect the experience of the
author's life in the United States. Style, topic, and length are open
and poems can be written in Spanish, English, and/or Spanglish.
Deriva is published in Mexico City by a group of poets whose mission
is to give voice, in each one of its publications, to a specific
topic or idea of great literary value. Please direct your questions
and submissions to lunaroha@.... Deriva does not have a web
site. ____________________________________________________
$15,000 RUTH LILLY POETRY FELLOWSHIPS
Deadline is April 15, 2004
Two Ruth Lilly Poetry Fellowships are awarded through a national
competition open to undergraduate and graduate students in creative
writing or English who are enrolled in a university or college at the
time of the application. Students must be American citizens under
thirty years old and must not have published a collection of poetry
or had one accepted for future publication. Program directors or
department chairs are invited to nominate one student-poet from their
programs. All nominations must be accompanied by an official
application form, along with samples of the candidate's work. In the
special case of a young poet who is not currently enrolled in a
university but who is independently pursuing a poetic career,
nominations may be made by a teacher or colleague familiar with the
poet's work. For guidelines and more information visit
http://www.poetrymagazine.org.
____________________________________________________
MARKETING FOR AUTHORS
Online Class begins April 26, 2004.
Do you want to build a step by step marketing plan? Do you want to
write a press release that says exactly the right things? Do you want
to ensure the way you think you should promote your work is indeed
the best way? At the end of this six-week class you will know all
that and more and you'll have a customized plan that is tailor made
for your book-and only your book. Classes run for six weeks from
April 26th though May 31st. To register and for more information
visit http://writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html
____________________________________________________
SEEKING POETS/PERFORMERS
Friday, April 30, 2004, 8:00 pm
Think you got what it takes to battle with other poets? Then come on
down and battle in our Poetry Slam night. All styles and levels
welcome. First timers encouraged. Winners will receive $250, as well
as publication in an up and coming book titled, "Boyle Heights Poetry
Anthology" edited by Josefina Lopez, creator of Real Women Have
Curves. Winners will also receive 5 copies of the book. The
categories are Best Erotica, Best Spoken Word Performer, and
Freestyle Flows. For more information, if you'd like to volunteer, or
to sign up to compete for any of the categories, please send your
name, a short bio about yourself, and a sample of your poetry to
sasparella@.... Admission to the show is free and open to the
public at CASA 0101 Theatre, 2009 E. First St., LA, CA 90033,
www.casa0101.org.
____________________________________________________
TEEN POETRY CONTEST
Deadline is May 3, 2004.
The 2004 CASA 0101 Theatre Young Latina/o Writers of the Future
Poetry Contest
Open to Middle and High School Students, ages 13-18. $250 prize for
1st Place. Guidelines:
1. Poems must be no more than one page long. Please type your poems
in an 8.5" x 11" paper, at least 10 point type. (Exceptions will be
made, if you handwrite the poems NEATLY.)
2. You may submit up to three poems. Staple all poems together, but
DO NOT include your name on the poem, only the title.
3. Include a cover letter with: your name, phone number, email
address (if available), the name of your school, your grade, and a
list of the titles of the poems you are submitting. Include also, a
short 50-150 word bio telling us about yourself and what inspires you
to write poetry. Do not staple cover letter to the poems.
4. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you'd like your poems
returned after the contest ends.
5. You will be notified by phone if you are a winner. 1st, 2nd, and
3rd prize will be awarded. Winners and their families/friends will be
invited to read their poems at our "Best of: Awards Night Ceremony²
on Saturday, May 22 and will receive their prizes then.
6. Deadline: Submissions must be received or emailed by Mon. May 3,
2004.
7. Submit all entries to: CASA 0101 Poetry Contest, 2874 Rowena
Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027, or email to: sasparella@...
____________________________________________________
PUERTO DEL SOL DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MAY 1, 2004
Puerto Del Sol is internationally recognized as one of the most
original and bold literary journals available today. They will be
producing a special supplement of Puerto Del Sol during their
anniversary year that will focus on the murdered and missing women of
Ciudad Juarez. Puerto invites emerging writers and artists to submit
poetry, short stories, novel excerpts, book reviews, photo-essays,
translations, essays, and other artwork (reproducible in black and
white) for this issue. They invite submissions in both English and
Spanish--if possible, in both. Hard copies of submissions should be
postmarked no later than May 1 2004 for consideration for this
special supplement, and should be addressed to: Bernadette Smyth,
Editor, Juarez Supplement, Puerto del Sol, MSC 3E, New Mexico State
University, PO Box 30001, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003-8001. Please
direct questions to Bernadette Smyth at bsmyth@... or Kevin
McIlvoy at kmcilvoy@....
____________________________________________________
OMEGA INSTITUTE POETRY WORKSHOPS
August 13 – August 15, 2004, Omega at the Crossings, Austin, TX
Writers, readers, teachers, and dreamers of poetry are invited to
join former U.S. poet laureate Billy Collins, Naomi Shihab Nye, Bruce
Snider and Rebecca Wee for a weekend immersion in the passion and
celebration of poetry. Each poet leads one workshop session, reading
from his or her work and the work of others, discussing topics most
relevant to each of their current writing lives and guiding us in
writing our own poetry.

August 22 – August 27, 2004, Rhinebeck Campus, Rhinebeck, NY
Spend a week immersed in verse with several of the nation's finest
poets. U.S. Poet Laureate Louise Glück, Coleman Barks, Li-Young Lee,
Tony Hoagland, and Kim Addonizio join us for readings, discussions,
and guidance in writing in our own poetry. This year's program also
offers a special evening session with Mary Gannon, deputy editor of
Poets & Writers Magazine, who shares with us insider information on
how and where to publish our poems.

To register for either of these workshops, and for more information
visit http://www.eomega.org/
____________________________________________________
BILINGUAL POETS NEEDED
New Mexico CultureNet promotes the understanding and appreciation of
the diverse cultures of New Mexico by connecting people, ideas and
resources. They would like to find one or two fluent bilingual
(English/Spanish) poets for some possible Santa Fe area gigs. The poet
(s) should be established writers with a substantial body of work and
experience in teaching or mentoring younger writers. Interested poets
should contact Alex Traube, Executive Director, phone 505-474-8500,
941 Placita Chaco, Santa Fe, NM 87505-6253, email:
alex@..., http://www.nmculturenet.org
____________________________________________________
MIJA MAGAZINE SEEKS WRITERS
Mija, an online Latina magazine, seeks contributing writers in the
categories of business, cultural issues, travel, art, poetry, law,
finances, stock, politics, education, career and women's health.
Preference is given to Latina writers, but writers of all backgrounds
are welcome. Stories should range from 250+ words and be written in
an accessible voice—the readers of Mija should feel as if their best
friend is talking to them. Funds are not currently available to pay
writers, but this is a great opportunity for new writers to get
exposure for their work. Email queries and story ideas to Roberta
Rosa, CEO/Founder of Mija, at rrosa@.... For more
information about Mija visit www.mijamagazine.com.
____________________________________________________
AROUND THE BLOC ON SALE
Desperate to escape South Texas, Stephanie Elizondo Griest ventured
to Moscow at age 21 in search of excitement, commencing a four-year,
12-nation tour of the Communist Bloc. In her new book Around the
Bloc, published by Villard in March 2004, she chronicles her
experiences as a volunteer at a children's shelter in Moscow, a
propaganda polisher in Beijing, and a belly dancer among the rumba
queens of Havana. She falls in love with an ex-soldier who fled
radiation clean-up duties at Chernobyl, hangs with Cuban hip-hop
artists who rap about Revolution, makes difficult realizations about
the meaning of democracy, and ultimately gains new appreciation for
the Mexican culture she left behind. During her "Bloc Party Book
Tour", she will relive these experiences in theatrical readings at
bookstores, universities, and community centers across the nation.
For more info, visit her Web site www.aroundthebloc.com.
____________________________________________________
BOLD INK ANTHOLOGY
WriteGirl, a creative writing and mentoring program for inner-city
high school girls in Los Angeles, has published an anthology
featuring the poetry, stories, essays, and lyrics by its members.
Bold Ink: Collected Voices of Women & Girls features lively original
work from high school girls and professional women writers addressing
everything from love and war to culture and current events. A
collection of diverse voices, Bold Ink provides the reader with
insight into the minds of today's young women, while celebrating the
art of creative writing like no other anthology. All proceeds benefit
WriteGirl, so your purchase helps us in our mission of giving girls
tools for self-expression and empowerment. Bold Ink is available on
Amazon.com. For more information on WriteGirl, visit our website:
www.writegirl.org.
____________________________________________________
SEEKING PROFESSIONAL LATINAS
I am writing to enlist your assistance in a research project
regarding the life experiences of professional Latinas. The purpose
of this study is to gain a better understanding of the development of
middle-aged Latinas. I am particularly interested in the role of
culture, acculturation, and career development. This research is
being conducted as partial fulfillment of the requirements for a
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology at the Long Island
University - Brooklyn Campus. I am looking for Latinas between the
ages of 40-55 years who are employed in professional careers (e.g.
lawyers, physicians, psychologists, etc.). Participation will enhance
our collective understanding of several important and timely issues
regarding women and work, as well as provide some of you with the
opportunity to review their life history. Eight questionnaires will
be mailed with a postage-paid return envelope. It is expected that
the questionnaires will take approximately 45 minutes to complete. I
plan to meet individually with 15 randomly selected women from the
sample of 120 participants for a tape-recorded interview, lasting
approximately two hours. The interviews will preferably occur in one
sitting, at a location and time of convenience. Participation in this
study is voluntary and participants have the option of withdrawing
from the study at any time. All responses are confidential. Should
you have any questions regarding the study or your participation in
it, please contact Rosanna Lora by electronic mail at the following
address: LatinaStudy@....
____________________________________________________
PLEASE SHARE
If you have an announcement about a writing contest, job opening,
call for submissions, book publication, or literary event that you'd
like to share, send it to me at marcelalandres@...
____________________________________________________
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey and tell me what doesn't work and why:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm
____________________________________________________
Find select writing opportunities
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id24.htm

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
Latinidad and include a link to http://www.marcelalandres.com/.

"You need to get up there and give it away so you can keep it."
-- From SMOKING LOVELY by Willie Perdomo. Copyright 2003 by Willie
Perdomo. Published by Rattapallax Press, New York, NY

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Latinidad Newsletter – March 2004

Please forward to friends and colleagues. If this newsletter has
been forwarded to you and you wish to subscribe, please visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm.

CONTENTS:
1. Saludos: March is Small Press Month
2. Q&A: Co-Director Alex Taylor, Curbstone Press
3. FAQ: Pen names
4. Success Stories: Contest leads to book deal
5. Recommendations: Small Press Center
6. News to Use: bookjobs.com
7. Author Spotlight: Daniel A. Olivas
8. Upcoming Workshops: For Love & Money Conference
9. Writing Opportunities: St. Martins seeks Latina fiction

1. Saludos
March is Small Press Month. While writers and the media often focus
on major publishing houses, most of the books in the U.S. are
published by small presses. In fact, Barnes and Noble reports that
purchases from the top 10 publishers declined to 46% from 74%. The
shift has been to independents, small publishers and university
presses. Large publishers generally do not accept unsolicited and
unagented submissions, and prefer established and commercially safe
authors. Small presses, however, have traditionally welcomed
unsolicited and unagented submissions, as well as riskier projects,
such as poetry and short story collections. More importantly, large
publishers often watch small presses with an eye towards wooing
authors, particularly short story writers who are on the verge of
making the leap to novels. As such, a small press may be a good way
to launch a writing career if you're still at the short story stage,
but plan to write a novel in the near future.

2. Q&A:
Alexander Taylor is Co-Director of Curbstone Press, one of the few
publishing houses with a long-abiding respect and enthusiasm for
Latino literature. Like many small houses, Curbstone Press welcomes
new writers and accepts unsolicited manuscripts.

Why is Curbstone a great home for Latino writers?
Well, I'm delighted to hear you think it is! As you know, our focus
is on publishing quality literature that promotes human and civil
rights, intercultural understanding, and constructive social change,
and much of Latino writing falls into this category, so we have
naturally placed a special emphasis on Latino literature. We have
also published Anglo, African-American, Jewish, Latin American and
European writers whose creative work has meaningful social content-
writers who want their art to make a difference in the sense that it
will impel people to take action. Curbstone is a good home for the
Latino writer who wants the integrity of his story respected, e.g.,
we don't have any pre-conceived notions of what Latino writing is,
so we don't ask the writer to "become more Latino" or to eliminate
passages that might upset some redneck in Dogpatch, or wherever. I
don't think any editor should, but one hears from writers that it
happens. One of the advantages of our being a nonprofit organization
is that it is our mission that drives the Press, not the need to put
making money above all else. Curbstone could be a good home because
we keep our books in print, pay a great deal of attention to
marketing, not only to the general trade but also to academia. It is
a good home for those fine works of literature that may never
reach "best-seller" status, but can sell steadily over time. But we
also like to think of Curbstone as a step-ladder for those writers
who can eventually find a home in main-stream publishing, and a
number of our writers have gone on to commercial houses.

Which Latino authors has Curbstone published?
We have published such now well-known writers as Jack Agüeros, Jimmy
Santiago Baca, Martín Espada, Luis J. Rodriguez, and Tino
Villanueva. We also have published many debut books, Naomi Ayala's
Wild Animals on the Moon, for instance, and the winners of our new
Miguel Mármol Prize for the best first book of fiction by a Latino
or Latina author has included a number of exciting new writers—
Lorraine López, Carla Trujillo, and Mary Helen Lagasse, all of whom
have received wonderful critical attention.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
We are seeking manuscripts that fit the mission I just described,
manuscripts that have social content and are artistically
compelling; well-written, well-shaped fiction with solid characters
and convincing plots. We are looking for skillful, original poetry
with fresh figurative language. But you know all that. Perhaps we
could say that it's the first duty of the writer to be interesting
in some way (or many ways); otherwise why should we read the stuff?
Because of our extensive work in public schools, we are also on the
lookout for good work suitable for young adults. We just published a
wonderful anthology of Latino short stories for middle and high
school students called Once upon a Cuento, edited by Lyn Miller-
Lachmann, Chief Editor of Multicultural Review. Nicholasa Mohr, by
the way, was incredibly helpful with this project, and we owe her a
deep debt of gratitude.

How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into your "Pursue"
pile?
Write compelling work. Every editor dreams of discovering an
important new writer.

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
I think it's really important for authors to publish widely in
journals and magazines and build a reputation before submitting book
manuscripts to publishers, not only to gain credibility, but also
because this process helps the writers develop self-criticism and
encourages revision. When you get a rejected story or group of poems
in the mail, you have to ask yourself, "Is it the editor or me? Or
maybe a little bit of both of us?" But in any case, as a writer you
often take another good hard look at your work and find yourself
immersed in revision.

Contact info: Alex Taylor, Curbstone Press, 321 Jackson St,
Willimantic, CT 06226
Web site: http://www.curbstone.org/
Are there specific editors or agents you'd like to see interviewed?
If so, let me know marcelalandres@...

3. FAQ
Q: My real name is Miguel Angel Reynaga. My pen name is Max M.
Power. I am dedicated to publishing my book and it is going on three
years since I completed the manuscript. I want my work to be judged
based on the work and not my name. However, in the world we live in,
my pen name gets my work read more than my real one. I would like
your thoughts on the subject. Thank you for your time.
Miguel Reynaga, maxmpower1@...

A: The most important factors agents and editors consider when
reviewing a submission is a writer's talent and platform, not his
name. If you're not receiving positive responses, chances are you
need to either hone your craft or build your platform. Having said
that, there are compelling reasons to use a pen name, i.e. a male
writer may use a feminine name if he writes romance. Or, a writer
may use a pen name when writing in a different category for which
he's known. For instance, a writer may use a pen name for thrillers
and her real name for literary fiction. While you have experienced
more rejection using your real name, don't despair. Agents are
becoming increasingly interested in Latino writers. Use the tips in
the FAQ section of the October 2003 issue of Latinidad
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/ to find these agents.

Email Miguel Reynaga maxmpower1@...
Ask a question via marcelalandres@....
Find more FAQ http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

4. Success Stories
Daniel A. Olivas, who is also featured in this issue's Author
Spotlight section, proves that submitting to contests can lead to a
book deal.

"Hi Marcela,
Okay, here's my success story: in 2000, I submitted my then-
unpublished short story collection, Assumption and Other Stories, to
Helicon Nine Editions Willa Cather Fiction Prize. I ended up being
one of ten finalists out of several hundred submissions. Though I
didn't win, when I informed Gary Keller of Bilingual Press of the
news, he asked to read the manuscript. Well, the book was accepted
and now it's in paperback with the first glowing review out:
http://www.borderlandnews.com/stories/living/20031005-29407.shtml.
And we learned that the Dallas Morning News (Texas' largest
newspaper) has assigned my book for a full review. I found out about
the contest in Poets & Writers.
Saludos,
Daniel A. Olivas
olivasdan@...
http://www.danielolivas.com"

Email Daniel A. Olivas olivasdan@...
Share your success story via marcelalandres@...
Find more success stories http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

5. Recommendations
The Small Press Center is a non-profit organization which celebrates
books published by small independent presses. While primarily geared
towards publishers, they do offer resources for writers: a list of
member publishers, organized alphabetically and by specialty;
articles about how to find a publisher, and about self-publishing;
and workshops on how to get published. Use the Small Press Center to
research the right small presses to which you should submit your
work.

Small Press Center web site http://www.smallpress.org/
Offer a recommendation via marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

6. News to Use
Strategic aspiring writers pursue a career in book publishing in
order to make valuable contacts and learn the tricks of the trade so
they can further their own writing careers. If you are like-minded,
check out the Publishers Weekly article, "AAP, Book Industry Want
College Grads" announcing the creation of a web site,
http://www.bookjobs.com/, devoted to attracting college grads,
particularly of color, to careers in publishing. Bookjobs.com
features a list of continually updated job openings and internships,
company profiles, and success stories. In addition, if you are
serious about launching a career in book publishing, see the "Want a
Career in Book Publishing?" entry in the Writing Opportunities
section of this issue.

"AAP, Book Industry Want College Grads" article
http://www.publishersweekly.com/index.asp?
layout=article&articleId=CA359429&text=ed%20mccoyd
Suggest an article via marcelalandres@...
Find more news to use http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

7. Author Spotlight
Assumption and Other Stories is a collection of short stories that
displays Daniel A. Olivas' range with characters and scenarios. From
Jewish schoolboys to lesbian litigators, the characters are both
familiar yet refreshingly new—they could easily be your neighbors,
yet are uncommon in Latino literature. Assumption and Other Stories
will whet your appetite for more of Olivas' work, which will one day
undoubtedly include a notable novel. Note in the interview below
that Olivas sold four of his manuscripts to small presses,
underscoring how open they are to unagented authors.

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
Many authors and books inspire me to write. But as I noted in my
acknowledgments to my first short story collection, Assumption and
Other Stories (Bilingual Press, 2003), I am particularly
appreciative of all those wonderful Latino/a writers who, through
their books, became the professors of my own, private MFA program:
Sandra Cisneros, Dagoberto Gilb, Pat Mora, Kathleen Alcalá, Al
Martinez, Gary Keller, Alejandro Morales, Rudolfo Anaya, Luis J.
Rodriguez, Gary Soto, Junot Díaz, Aldo Alvarez, Demetria Martínez,
Victor Villaseñor, and so many others. Latino/a writers also proved
to me that we can tell our own stories in our own words.

Why do you love to write short stories?
I love writing short stories because for a limited period of time, I
can be somebody else. The feeling I get from writing short stories
must be similar to how a character actor feels when, for one film or
play, he embodies the skin of a different person

How did you meet your agent?
I don't have an agent! I've placed all four of my books on my own.
I've been told by many agents that I'm a fine writer but short
stories by an unknown are not "marketable." So, they always invite
me to write a novel.

What is your writing ritual?
I have no writing ritual. I'm a full-time lawyer, father, and
husband so I squeeze in writing whenever I can.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Submit, submit, submit. And never let the rejection slips prevent
you from submitting yet again

Read excerpt http://webdelsol.com/InPosse/olivas_anthology.htm
See reviews and bio on author's web site http://www.danielolivas.com
Obtain Assumption
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1931010196/marcelalandre-
20/102-5000137-3132160?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
Suggest an author to spotlight via marcelalandres@...

8. Upcoming Workshops
3/19/04 – 3/21/04: For Love and Money Writers Conference, Manhattan
Beach, CA

I will give a workshop on killer book proposals, and speak on a
panel about ethnic markets.
Book Proposal workshop: 4-5:15 pm, Friday 3/19
Ethnic Markets panel: 9-10:15 am, Sunday 3/21
Where: Manhattan Beach Marriot, 1400 Parkview Avenue, Manhattan
Beach, CA 90266-3714, 310-546-7511,
http://marriott.com/property/propertyPage/LAXMN
To register and for conference schedule: http://www.lawritersconf.org

Invite me to speak http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Upcoming workshops list http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

9. Writing Opportunities
Please forward inquiries to the contacts listed below.
____________________________________________________
MAJOR PUBLISHING HOUSE SEEKS COMMERCIAL LATINA FICTION
St. Martin's Press is looking for fresh, hip fiction for their
commercially driven list. Have you written the Latina Bridget Jones
or the next Dirty Girls Social Club?? If so, send it in! We are
currently looking for contemporary commercial women's fiction, chick-
lit, and sophisticated Young Adult Novels (target audience: teens,
NOT children). Ideally, the novel should be set in America and
center around a spunky, young Latina heroine. Please send a query
letter, author bio, synopsis, and sample 3 chapters to Elizabeth
Bewley, St. Martin's Press, 175 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York
10010. Also, check out our website at www.stmartins.com and be sure
to be on the lookout for Friday Night Chicas in winter `04.
____________________________________________________
MARKETING FOR AUTHORS
Do you want to build a step by step marketing plan? Do you want to
write a press release that says exactly the right things? Do you
want to ensure the way you think you should promote your work is
indeed the best way? At the end of this six-week class you will know
all that and more and you'll have a customized plan that is tailor
made for your book-and only your book. Classes run for six weeks
from March 1st to April 5th. To register and for more information
visit http://writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html
____________________________________________________
Hi Everyone,
I will be signing books at the Home and Garden Show at America's
Center for Borders Bookstore, if you attend the show come by and say
hello!
I will be there:
Friday, March 5 from 4 - 7 PM
Saturday, March 6 from 1 - 4 PM
Sunday, March 7 from 1 - 4 PM
Thanks and please forward this email to your family and friends.
Edna Campos Gravenhorst
Author of Historical Home Research in the City of St. Louis
Founder of Three Nosey Broads/Historical Home Research
314-762-9192
314-304-7341
www.3noseybroads.com
____________________________________________________
TAOS INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS WORKSHOPS
Dates: March 17-May 30; June 9-Oct. 17
A variety of weekly workshops in writing: mystery, fiction, creative
non-fiction, memoir, personal essay, and poetry. US Poet Laureate
Billy Collins headlines the impressive line-up of working and
published writers. To register and for more information visit
http://www.tiataos.com
____________________________________________________
WANT A CAREER IN BOOK PUBLISHING?
Graduates of these publishing programs have a distinct advantage
over non-graduates in securing coveted publishing jobs. In fact,
many hiring managers will not interview candidates who have not
attended one of these programs.

The Columbia Publishing Course: Deadline is March 22nd.
http://www.jrn.columbia.edu/admissions/programs/publishing/

New York University Summer Publishing Institute: Deadline is March
19th.
www.scps.nyu.edu/pubcenter

City College of New York Publishing Certificate Program
http://www.ccny.cuny.edu/publishing_certificate/index.html

University of Denver Publishing Institute: Deadline is April 1st.
http://www.du.edu/pi/
_____________________________________________________
BORDERSENSES LITERARY MAGAZINE
The mission of BorderSenses Literary Magazine is to provide a venue
for writers and artists of the Southwest and the U.S./Mexico border
to share their words and images. BorderSenses Literary Magazine
seeks diversity of voices and welcomes writers and artists of all
genres and styles in English or Spanish. Deadline is March 24th.
For submission guidelines and more information visit
http://www.bordersenses.com.
____________________________________________________
REAL WOMEN HAVE CURVES - THE PLAY
"Real Women Have Curves," Josefina Lopez's original play that was
made into a movie, was a huge success in 2003. Now, back by popular
demand, the play is being shown at her theatre in the heart of the
Boyle Height's Artist District, CASA 0101 Theatre & Art Space.
Through March 28, 2004. CASA 0101 Theater, 2009 E. 1st St., Los
Angeles, CA 90033. To RSVP call: 323.263.7684. For more
info/directions visit: http://www.casa0101.org
____________________________________________________
ESSENCE 2004 SHORT FICTION CONTEST.
Join best-selling authors Terry McMillan, Gloria Naylor, Jill Nelson
and others, whose short fiction first appeared in the pages of
Essence. First Prize includes publication of the winning story in a
fall 2004 issue of Essence and $1,000. First, Second, and Third
Prize as well as seven honorable mentions will appear on Essence.com
in June. All entries must be postmarked no later than March 30,
2004. For more info visit www.essence.com.
____________________________________________________
GLIMMER TRAIN SHORT STORY AWARD
Glimmer Train, one of the more widely read and respected literary
publications in the nation, offers a prize of $1200 and publication
in Glimmer Train Stories twice yearly to a writer whose fiction has
not been published in a nationally distributed publication with a
circulation over 5000. Submit a short story of up to 12,000 words
with a $12 entry fee by March 31. For guidelines visit
www.glimmertrainpress.com.
____________________________________________________
FIRST ANNUAL LEWIS "BUDDY" NORDAN FICTION CONTEST
Sponsored by Algonquin Books, a small press dedicated to publishing
quality writing. The Lewis "Buddy" Nordan Fiction Contest welcomes
unpublished manuscripts from all authors, including non-US citizens
writing in English.  We accept all genres of literary fiction in the
form of short stories or novel excerpts not exceeding 5,000 words.
Postmark deadline: March 31. For guidelines and more information
visit www.pitt.edu/~nidus.
____________________________________________________
FREE JOURNALISM CAMP FOR STUDENTS OF COLOR
The Asian American Journalists Association is pleased to announce J
Camp, a high school journalism program for gifted students of color.
There is no fee to apply and students selected will have all costs
covered, including airfare, housing and meals. This program is not
limited to Asian American students and is open to all young
journalists. J Camp will be held at George Washington University in
Washington, D.C. from July 30- August 4, 2004. Deadline for
applications is April 1st, 2004. Applications are available at:
http://aaja.org. For more information contact Lila Chwee, AAJA
Student Programs Coordinator, at 415/346-2051 or lilac@....
____________________________________________________
ABEBOOKS.COM LAUNCHES "LIBROS EN ESPAÑOL"
Abebooks.com, the popular website for used, rare and out-of-print
books, celebrates the launch of a new area on the website that
features Spanish language books, booksellers, and authors. This new
area makes it easy to find and buy―or list and sell—books of
interest to Latino readers and collectors, in Spanish and in
English. "Libros en Español", located at
http://www.abebooks.com/docs/Espanol/, currently lists 200,000 books
from the Abebooks database of 50 million books. Abebooks is inviting
everyone―especially members of Latino communities―to visit "Lib=
ros
en Español" and name a favorite Spanish-language book or author.
Everyone who does so will be entered in a draw for a collectible,
Spanish-language copy of One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel
Garcia Marquez valued at over $300. The first 300 visitors to
comment will receive a thank you gift from Abebooks. Entries will be
accepted until April 1. Media contact: Marci Crossan,
mcrossan@..., 250-412-3258
____________________________________________________
SEEKING VENDORS FOR BARRIO BOOKFEST 2004
Barrio Bookfest, scheduled to take place May 14-15 in San Diego's
Barrio Logan, is a book festival focusing on issues related to
social justice and human rights. This event is free to the public
and will feature readings, panel discussions, workshops, book
signings, and live music. We are looking for progressive community
oriented publishers, book stores, small businesses, non profits and
community organizations to participate as vendors. Self-published
authors are welcome. Reduced rates for vendors are available if you
register before April 1st. To register and for more information
visit http://barriobookfest.org/.
____________________________________________________
INVITATION TO VISIT IAMBIA MEDIA
Are you a new or established author? Are you seeking exposure for
your book? Iambia Media, Inc. provides services including: Public
Relations, Marketing, Graphics, Editing, Research, and Proofreading.
Need an agent? We will market your book to publishing houses around
the country. Utilize our services before April 1, 2004 and receive a
10% discount on selected services. Current clients include: Donna
Hill, J.D. Mason, Kadiatou Diallo, Deborah Gregory, and Francis Ray.
Visit us at www.iambiamedia.com or contact us at (718) 652-1251, or
info@....
____________________________________________________
CUERPO MAGAZINE SEEKS WRITERS
I'm looking for writing pieces and artistic work to include in my
prototype magazine test run issue called Cuerpo Magazine scheduled
for July of 2004. The theme for this issue is "Powerful Latina" in
case you're interested in submitting content related to this topic.
We are accepting other more general content in the following
categories: Non-fiction, self-help, pop culture, health/wellness,
activism, book/movie/music reviews on Latino culture, women related
studies, holistic living, artistic pieces of work, motivational
fillers, spirituality, fashion/beauty/trend, celebrity profiles with
a mission, poetry, and information/news related to Latino people.  I
welcome any other ideas and suggestions.  You can visit the site for
more detailed information at www.AmianaNetwork.com and email
submissions to: Lissette@.... The deadlines for
submissions is April 10th 2004.
____________________________________________________
MACDOWELL COLONY
Past attendees have included Pulitzer, National Book Award, and Rome
Prize winners; some of the writers who have worked at the Colony are
Oscar Hijuelos, Michael Chabon, Angie Cruz, and Alice Walker.
MacDowell Colony offers residencies of up to two months to poets,
fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers in Peterborough,
New Hampshire. The deadline for applying is April 15th. For an
application and more information visit www.macdowellcolony.org.
____________________________________________________
LATINA AUTHOR STARTS NEWSLETTER FOR WRITERS
For nine years Mary Castillo worked towards publication and a five-
minute call from her editor in New York made a seemingly impossible
dream come true. Except she wasn't quite prepared for what happened
afterwards. To help other writers who might be faced with similar
dilemmas, Mary has created an online newsletter, "From the Inside
Out." Readers can share her experiences as a new author going
through the process of publishing her books. And Mary will answer
questions readers ask. Or find an expert who can. Writers as well as
readers are encouraged to sign up at
marycastilloauthor@yahoogroups.com. For more information visit
www.MaryCastillo.com.
____________________________________________________
LATINA HEROINE THRIVES IN VAMPIRE NOVEL
Caridad Pineiro Scordato, a leading author of multicultural
romances, is putting some bite into her work with the release of
Darkness Calls, a vampire novel with a Latina heroine.  Darkness
Calls will be released under the author's pen name, Caridad Pineiro,
by Silhouette, a major publisher of romances and part of the
Harlequin family. In Darkness Calls, Latina FBI Agent Diana Reyes
has learned how to master her darkness, but it will tempt her again
when she is forced to go undercover to solve a serial killer case
and meets Ryder Latimer, the enigmatic owner of the Manhattan
nightclub where the murders have occurred. When not writing, Caridad
is a mother and wife, and a partner in a New York City law firm.
She also teaches workshops on various topics related to writing and
heads a writing group at a local book store.  For more information
please visit www.caridad.com.
Buy Darkness Calls:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0373273533/marcelalandre-
20/102-5000137-3132160?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
____________________________________________________
FIESTA FOR THE HISPANIC SOUL
It's fiesta time in America! Ruben Soto shares some of his personal
stories, poems, and tales that will touch your heart. Soto offers
hope, encouragement, peace for your soul, and taking pride in being
Hispanic in today's America. You will find stories on Gloria
Estefan, Selena, Sandra Cisneros, Jorge Ramos, the Hispanic family,
successful Hispanic women, Hispanic foods, encouragement, love, a
tribute to our famous Hispanics, a tribute to our Hispanic soldiers,
and many other stories that will make Hispanics proud of their
culture. Mr. Soto can be contacted at rubenso99@... or
http://www.rubensoto.com.
Buy it now at:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0595299407/marcelalandre-
20/102-5000137-3132160?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
____________________________________________________
UN MUNDO DE PAPEL/ENTER A WORLD OF PAPER
Artist, writer, and community educator Carlos N. Molina just
launched his website http://carlosnmolina.com/. In it you can view
examples of his delicate paper sculptures, bold digital art, and
touching but humorous writings.
____________________________________________________
PLEASE SHARE
If you have an announcement about a writing contest, job opening,
call for submissions, book publication, or literary event that you'd
like to share, contact me at marcelalandres@...
____________________________________________________
DID YOU ENJOY THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey and tell me what doesn't work and why:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm
____________________________________________________

Find past writing opportunities
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
Latinidad and include a link to http://www.marcelalandres.com/.

"Most people only do what they are asked to do;
success comes to those who do a little more."
―Karl Kraus

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Latinidad Newsletter – February 2004

Please forward to friends and colleagues. If this newsletter has
been forwarded to you and you wish to subscribe, please visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm.

CONTENTS:
1. Saludos
2. Q&A: Editor Julie Barrett
3. FAQ
4. Success Stories
5. Recommendations
6. News to Use
7. Author Spotlight
8. Upcoming Workshops
9. Writing Opportunities

1. Saludos
Many thanks to all of you who responded to the Newsletter Survey in
January 2004's issue. Your feedback will help make Latinidad an
indispensable tool for Latino writers. Three suggestions in
particular have been implemented: a new section, Q&A, which features
interviews with editors and agents seeking Latino writers; the
addition of author interviews to the Author Spotlight section; and a
revamped FAQ section, which now serves as a mini-consultation.
In honor of Valentine's Day, this issue highlights romance novels.
Romance authors represent a significant segment of the writing
community: they write over half the paperback fiction published, and
over a third of all fiction published, in every category and format
(i.e. mass market, trade paperback, hardcover). Moreover, romance
novels generate over $1 billion in sales each year. If your goal is
to make a living exclusively from your writing, romance is one of
the few categories in which you can reasonably expect to do so.

2. Q&A: Editor Julie Barrett
Julie Barrett is an Editor for Harlequin/Silhouette Books, and is
actively acquiring for all of Harlequin's lines, particularly
Silhouette Bombshell (see Bombshell's call for submissions, "Seeking
Action-Adventure Romance Authors", in the Writing Opportunities
section). Unlike most large publishers, Harlequin has a well-
deserved reputation for nurturing new authors, and will work with
writers who are not represented by agents.

Why is Harlequin a great home for new writers?
Harlequin is always seeking new authors, and is one of the few
publishers that is dedicated to building unpublished writers. Right
now is a particularly exciting time at Harlequin. We have several
brand new lines where new authors have an excellent chance to get
noticed.
First, we have our Silhouette Bombshell line, which is an action-
adventure romance line featuring strong, sexy, savvy heroines who
save the day and find a little romance along the way. We also have
Flipside, a romantic comedy line. Then there is Luna, our new
fantasy line, and HQN, a single title romance imprint. Of course, we
are always looking for voices in our current lines, from our
category romance offerings to our Mira women's fiction hardcover
imprint. You can go to www.eHarlequin.com to the Learn to Write
section to find guidelines for all of our lines, as well as helpful
writing tips.

Which Latina authors has Harlequin published?
We have wonderful Latina authors who have written romance for us,
and would love to have more! Some of our Latina authors include
Linda Sandoval, Caridad Soldato and Tracy Montoya.

What kinds of manuscripts do you seek?
Unpublished authors must submit a 5-10 page synopsis and a complete
manuscript. We ask that authors specifically target a particular
line of our books and follow the submission guidelines for that
line.

4) How can writers avoid your "Reject" pile and get into
your "Pursue" pile?
First, follow the guidelines and target a specific line. Once we
know what line you are targeting, we evaluate manuscripts for strong
writing style and appropriate voice for the targeted line. I always
recommend that new writers read our books to get an idea of what we
are looking for, especially for our category lines. Of course, we
are also looking for new voices with a fresh new twist!

Other than honing their craft, what is the smartest step writers can
take to become happily published?
Perhaps consider joining a writing group or organization, such as
Romance Writers of America, which provides amazing support,
resources and opportunities for romance writers. Also, be sure to
follow a publisher's submission guidelines so your manuscript
doesn't end up in the reject pile right off the bat. And finally,
write that book. I'm serious when I say that Harlequin is looking
for exciting new authors. I hope to hear from you soon!

Julie Barrett's contact info: Harlequin Books, 233 Broadway, Suite
1001, New York, NY 10279
Harlequin's web site: www.eHarlequin.com
Are there specific editors or agents you'd like to see interviewed?
If so, let me know marcelalandres@...

3. FAQ
Q: Could you refer me to an agent who might be interested in my
book? My book is based on black & white journalistic style
photographs I took in 2002 as I made a trip from California to my
grandfather's homeland village of Jauja, located in the Peruvian
Andean mountains. You can see the images on my website:
http://home.earthlink.net/~trini61/. My grandfather's poems will
accompany the photographs. Though he wrote them in Spanish I have
translated them myself into English and I plan to show both the
Spanish and English versions. These poems were written in the
metaphoric style of the 1940's based on his experiences growing up
in Jauja where he is a well known artist/painter/writer. It
demonstrates the lifestyle, traditions, the food, the language, and
the history of a far-off land rarely encountered by anyone in the
world. My photographs also express my encounter of the serene
village and its' people and what it looks like now, 50 years later
after the poems were written.
I was referred to you through Yvette Cabrera of the Orange County
Register. On 12/2002, she wrote a wonderful article about my trip
back to Peru: http://www2.ocregister.com/ocrweb/ocr/article.do?
id=14715&section=ACCENT&year=2002&month=12&day=6
Trini Schultz
trini61@...
http://home.earthlink.net/~trini61/

A: Your work is absolutely gorgeous. I can't think of specific
agents who handle photography books, which are cost and production
intensive and therefore something of a risk when attached to unknown
authors. Plus, the topic, while worthy, might be perceived as small,
especially by large publishing houses.
	 Having said that, I would recommend you focus on agents who
regularly submit to publishing houses that have a reputation for
publishing highly-visual work (i.e. Chronicle Books, Andrews McMeel,
and Workman), as well as agents who regularly submit to publishing
houses that have a reputation for publishing Latino authors (i.e.
Curbstone Press, Arte Público Press, Bilingual Review Press). Use
the tips offered in the FAQ section of the October 2003 issue of
Latinidad, http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/message/16,
to track down these agents and publishers.

Email Trini Schultz trini61@...
Ask a question marcelalandres@....
Find more FAQ http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

4. Success Stories
Have you ever had an agent or editor who was not Latino tell you
that the characters in your manuscript weren't "Latino enough"? If
so, you're not alone. Mary Castillo didn't let that stop her, and
her persistence paid off in not one, but two book deals. Note that
Mary met one of her editors at the RWA's National Convention (see
Recommendations). Further proof that writing conferences can be
worth the price of admission.

"Dear Marcela,
I wanted to share my first sales stories with you and the readers of
Latinidad. A year ago I finished this strange little hybrid
contemporary romance with a heroine named Tamara who had finally
grown up from under the shadow of her mother. There was also this
crazy Mexican-American family who were both traditional and yet very
modern. At the time there were no books like it on the shelves and I
had no idea where to market it. But I sent it out to ten agents on
my birthday and was baffled (and frankly, offended) by the comments
that Tamara wasn't Latina enough.
	 By the time I met my editor, this book received 17
rejections and I was wondering whether or not to shelve it and start
a new story. But I walked into the Publisher Spotlight session for
Avon Romance at RWA's National Convention in New York, determined to
take one more chance to find a home for Tamara.
	 During the Q&A session I raised my hand and asked if they
were looking for Latina contemporary romance that sounded
suspiciously like mine. Selina McLemore took the microphone and very
clearly said, "Send it to me." I did and on November 11 at 7:10 a.m.
she offered to buy the book. Incidentally, the next day I received
my 20th rejection on this book because the agent said I hadn't taken
advantage of the "hot Latina angle." Talk about keeping it in
perspective!
	 But not even a week later, Elizabeth Bewley at St. Martins
asked me to pitch an idea for a Latina chick lit anthology, Friday
Night Chicas. I got the gig and will join Sofia Quintero, Berta
Platas and Caridad Scordato in this collection.
	 So for those writers out there who are banging their heads
against the walls because you don't have a chola, a hoochie mama, a
barefoot peasant, or a mystical all-knowing abuelita in your story
(I'm being facetious!), there are publishers and agents looking for
fresh and contemporary Latina stories.

Un abrazo,
Mary Castillo
marycast@...
www.MaryCastillo.com
Friday Night Chicas, St. Martins, Winter 2005
Hot Tamara, Avon Trade, Spring 2005

Email Mary Castillo marycast@...
Share your success story marcelalandres@...
Find more success stories http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

5. Recommendations
The Romance Writers of America (RWA) is a professional association
for published and aspiring romance writers. I've heard many good
things from numerous Latina writers who have received generous
support from the RWA. My understanding is that the RWA welcomes
writers of all kinds of women's fiction, not just romance. Check out
their web site, http://www.rwanational.org/, for useful data,
including a list of houses that publish romance, a contest for
unpublished writers, and handy statistics about the romance industry
(did you know that 11% of romance readers are Latino?).

Offer a recommendation marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

6. News to Use
Publishers Weekly's "Toujours l'Amour" article discusses the latest
trends in romance, and features commentary from top romance editors.
One noteworthy and heartening trend mentioned is "there's only one
rule of thumb: quality will win out. The trend is towards good
writing. That's where it's going."
Use the article as a tool to build a submissions list: write down
the names of all the editors and authors; search Publishers Weekly's
web site, http://www.publishersweekly.com/, for articles—in
particular their Hot Deals and Short Takes columns—which feature the
names of these editors and writers; write down the names of the
agents who sold these editors romance manuscripts and/or represent
the romance authors. You now have a list of agents to whom you can
submit your romance manuscript.

Publishers Weekly "Toujours l'Amour" article:
http://www.publishersweekly.com/index.asp?
layout=article&articleId=CA338936&text=romance
Suggest an article marcelalandres@...
Find more news to use http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

7. Author Spotlight
Maximum Security is Tracy Montoya's debut in the Harlequin Intrigue
line. And intriguing it is—protagonist Maggie Reyes evokes Clarice
Starling from Silence of the Lambs. A bestselling true-crime writer
and expert on serial killers, Maggie barely survives an assault by
The Surgeon, a psychopath who has murdered numerous women across
four states. Despite agoraphobia and a shattered self-confidence,
Maggie proves a formidable opponent to The Surgeon. Equally
appealing is Maggie's friend Adriana Torres, a funky thrift shop
owner who teaches yoga, worries about Maggie's chi, and unleashes
rapid-fire Spanish when stressed. Learn more about the thoughtful
and thought-provoking Tracy Montoya in the interview below. Note
that she found her agent through the RWA (see Recommendations).

Which author or book inspires you, and why?
Kate Chopin's The Awakening—it's the story of a woman who starts
coming into her own as an artist, but finds this exciting new life
severely restricted by her "duty" to her husband, her children, and
to a society that expects her to conform to the Victorian ideal of
what a wife and mother should be. Her choices then were limited to
turning her back on her art and continuing to be accepted socially,
embrace her art and become a social pariah (and probably an
impoverished pariah at that), or exercising what she saw as the only
form of total control over her life available to her by ending it.
(It's a Victorian novel―you can probably guess which option she
picked. Uplifting people, those Victorians . . .)
Chopin herself was ruined as a writer by the critical backlash
against the book, which dared to criticize the narrow sphere to
which women were relegated.
	 I once heard Maya Angelou say that "we are paid for by our
ancestors," and Chopin's book is a reminder of who "paid" for my
freedom as a woman—and as a Latina―to write what and when I want.

Why do you love to write romance?
Because contrary to the stereotypes of the genre that are out there,
these are smart, fun, incredibly creative books where women are the
pivotal players. We're the ones who have it all at the end of these
books―we get the great job, fall for the great guy, solve the
mysteries, outsmart our antagonists, and otherwise come out on top
at the end. Basically, it's an entire genre celebrating the fact
that women rock. Who can't love writing or reading that?

How did you meet your agent?
When I was searching for an agent, two members of my Romance Writers
of America chapter told me that I HAD to call Helen Breitwieser,
whom they referred to as "St. Helen" because of how fabulous she was
as an agent. So I called her, we hit it off, and we've been together
ever since. And yes, I call her St. Helen, too.

What is your writing ritual?
I'm cursed with a rather short attention span, so I write whenever
inspiration strikes and keep writing until distracted by something
sparkly. I also tend to be deadline driven, so I churn out the bulk
of my work (and, I think, some of my best work) the closer I get to
my deadline. My husband tells me I should start adhering to a set
writing schedule and just try out for Fear Factor to get the
adrenaline rush. I would, but I'm not taking any chances with a show
where chowing down on Madagascar hissing cockroaches is a regular
thing.
I also write on a computer—my brain is apparently connected to my
hands, and the faster they can move, the better I do. There's a
certain romance to the image of the author at her desk with a
beautiful pen in hand (In a garret. Gotta have a garret.), but I'd
lose patience with myself if I wrote longhand. It's that short
attention span thing again.

Other than honing their craft, what advice would you give to Latino
writers looking to land a book deal?
Don't listen when people tell you your idea/plot/characters are
unmarketable (unless, of course, it's an interested editor who's
trying to get you to revise a manuscript). The market cycles so
rapidly, that today's taboo subject could end up being tomorrow's
hot trend. I'm sure people told Terry McMillan that no one wanted to
read about mainstream middle class African American characters, and
look where she and her books are now.

Obtain Maximum Security
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0373227507/marcelalandre-
20/002-8862946-9912033?creative=125577&camp=2321&link_code=as1
Read excerpt and reviews
http://www.tracymontoya.com/html/books.html#maximumexcerpt
Visit Tracy Montoya's web site http://www.tracymontoya.com/
Suggest an author to interview marcelalandres@...
Find more author spotlights http://www.marcelalandres.com/id58.htm

8. Upcoming Workshops
3/19/04 – 3/21/04: For Love and Money Writers Conference, Manhattan
Beach, CA

I will give a workshop on killer book proposals, and speak on a
panel about ethnic markets.
Book Proposal workshop: 4-5:15 pm, Friday 3/19
Ethnic Markets panel: 9-10:15 am, Sunday 3/21
Where: Manhattan Beach Marriot, 1400 Parkview Avenue, Manhattan
Beach, CA 90266-3714, 310-546-7511,
http://marriott.com/property/propertyPage/LAXMN
To register: http://www.lawritersconf.org/mainreg.htm
Conference schedule: http://www.lawritersconf.org/schedule.htm
For more info: http://www.lawritersconf.org/

Request a workshop http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Find list of upcoming workshops
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

9. Writing Opportunities
Please forward inquiries to the contacts listed below.
____________________________________________________
REMINDER: VONA WRITING WORKSHOPS
As recommended in the August/September 2003 issue of Latinidad: VONA
(The Voices of Our Nation Arts Foundation) is a non-profit
organization associated with the University of San Francisco's
School of Education that is dedicated to nurturing developing
writers through the traditions, perspectives, and aesthetics of
writers of color. VONA was founded by Junot Diaz (author of Drown),
Elmaz Abinader (author of Children of the Roojme and In the Country
of My Dreams) and Executive Director Diem Jones. I've heard nothing
but raves from both writers and speakers who have participated in
their Summer Writing Workshops. The impressive faculty has included
such acclaimed writers as Terry McMillan, Martin Espada, and Willie
Perdomo. I highly recommend their Summer Writing Workshops.
Applications must be received by April 2, 2004 to receive priority
consideration for space and financial aid. All applications received
after that date will only be considered if space is still available
in the workshops. To apply and for more info http://www.vona-
voices.org
____________________________________________________
MAKING ART YOUR BUSINESS- ARTIST SEMINAR
Are you an artist looking for:
A) affordable health insurance?
B) money for projects?
C) ways to develop your work?
If so come to the Making Art Your Business- Artist Seminar February
7 at Newark Museum in Newark, NJ
Seminar Agenda is as follows:
9:00-9:30 Registration with Continental Breakfast
9:30-9:55 Artist Welcome
9:55-10:15 Keynote Address by William Aguado, Executive Director of
Bronx Council on the Arts
10:15-11:15 Promoting Your Work (Panel of Curators, Artists and
Performing Arts Publicists)
11:15-12:30 Artists & Health Insurance by Adam Forest, Fractured
Atlas
Grant writing for Individual Artists by Radosh Piletic, New York
Foundation for the Arts
Legal Issues in the Arts, by Elena Paul, Volunteer Lawyers for the
Arts
12:30-1:30 Lunch
1:30-2:45 Artists & Health Insurance by Adam Forest, Fractured Atlas
Grant writing for Individual Artists by Radosh Piletic, New York
Foundation for the Arts
Legal Issues in the Arts by Elena Paul, Volunteer Lawyers for the
Arts
2:45-4:00 Visual Arts Residencies & Programs
Performing Arts-Planning & Pitching
Literary Arts-Residencies & Conferences
4:00-4:45 Wrap Up & Networking
5:00 Closing
Registration Fee: $20 (includes breakfast and lunch)
If you are interested in attending and would like more information,
contact Rebeca Ramirez at RebecaRamirez@... or call
212.727.7227 ext. 3.
To find out more information and for registration forms please visit
http://www.njartscouncil.org/new6.html and click on "Artist
Development Workshops"
____________________________________________________
SELF-PUBLISHING AND LOCAL AUTHOR FAIR
Saturday, February 7, 3 - 5 pm
Page One, New Mexico's largest independent bookstore: authors are
invited to bring their books to promote independently and sell at
Page One's Self-Publishing Fair. This excellent networking
opportunity occurs the first Saturday of every month from 3 - 5 pm
in the Page One Cafe. Call 294-2026 x3070 for more information.
For store info http://www.page1book.com/html/storeinfo.shtml
____________________________________________________
BOOK & GIFT PAVILION OPENING
When: February 9th, 2004
Where: 2234 S. Figueroa St. LA, CA 90007
What: Opening Day for new a class of gallery/books/gift store
Who: Book & Gift Pavilion
How: By inviting you to join us and celebrate
Contact: Jezli Pacheco Tel. 323.240.5662
On February 9, 2004 the Book & Gift Pavilion will open to the
public. Serving in the Downtown LA area at: 2234 S. Figueroa St. LA,
CA 90007. We look forward to bringing books, gifts and art to the
community at large. Bringing an eclectic mix of unique hand made
items, Spanish and English Literature/gift books, and the art of
Southern California Latino artists. Located in the Figueroa
Corridor, this place promises to provide class and flavor. We look
forward to promoting culture and literacy to our community with
other events coming soon.
____________________________________________________
CORPORATE COUNSEL FOR NON-PROFIT
Multi-state non-profit agency of 600+ employees operating community
based monitoring and treatment programs for delinquent and
disadvantaged youth has opening for corporate attorney who is also
interested in becoming involved in management for a non-profit
organization. Duties include providing legal review/advice on
general corporate business matters/policies, negotiating/reviewing
general contracts, real estate contracts and funding source
documents, ensuring corporate compliance with state regulations in
all states in which we do business, supervise litigation, assist in
legal and financial matters relative to new programs and be
integrally involved in a large Eastside community development
project. Non-legal duties include: acting as a liaison between
organization and outside entities; grant writing; advocacy; policy
research; and community relations.  Must have J.D. degree from
accredited law school, be licensed to practice law in the State of
Texas and be a member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
Salary ranges from $45,000 -$55,000 in addition to competitive
benefits. Send resume on or before February 10th by mail, fax or
email to: Trisha Faust, Southwest Key Program, Inc., 3000 IH35
South, Suite 450, Austin, TX 78704, Fax: (512) 912-7690, email:
tfaust@.... For more info http://www.swkey.org/
____________________________________________________
THE PINK MAGNOLIA GALLERY & PATIO CAFÉ
Opening Saturday, Valentine's Day 2004. Please mark your calendars
and plan to join us. Nestled in the center of Old Town Katy, Katy,
Texas, The Pink Magnolia, a charming century year old home is
surrounded by beautiful century old pecan trees (and of course, a
pink magnolia tree). Extraordinary art, books, and gift items will
be offered inside The Pink Magnolia Gallery and wonderful iron metal
art out in the gardens. Our monthly exhibits will feature history,
extraordinary collections, and human interest information. Don't
miss them! Come shop, browse, relax, and visit with us. If you're in
our area early in the morning, stop by for coffee, pastries, or an
empanada turnover. For more info http://www.thepinkmagnolia.com/
____________________________________________________
LADYFEST NOW ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS
Ladyfest Texas 2004 will take place May 27 - 30, 2004. The non-
profit, woman-centered arts and music festival Ladyfest Texas is now
accepting submissions for music, film, art, spoken word and
workshops to be included in the 2004 festival. The Ladyfest Texas
mission is to provide a forum in which all members of the community
can celebrate, showcase, and encourage the artistic, organizational,
and political talents of women. This participatory festival will
feature performances by bands, spoken word artists, authors, visual
artists and filmmakers, as well as workshops and panel discussions.
While the primary organizers of Ladyfest Texas are women, everyone
is welcome and encouraged to attend and volunteer at this community
festival. Interested artists should visit the Ladyfest Texas website
at http://www.ladyfesttx.org and download the submission form. The
deadline is February 15th, 2004.
____________________________________________________
FRUITFUL CONTEST - CAN YOU HAIKU?
Win a basketful of prayer.
Haiku, a traditional form of Japanese poetry, is a 17-syllable verse
form consisting of three metrical units of 5, 7, and 5 syllables. In
Japanese, this convention is a must, but in English, which has
variation in the length of syllables, this can sometimes be
difficult. In other words, do your best. The best weight loss haiku
will win a Basketful of Prayer, to include an Our Lady prayer
candle, an original ArtWare candle coaster and a prayer card. And
the winner's haiku will be published in the next edition of THE
SKINNY!
Please email submissions to info@... by February
29, 2004. (Leap Year) Be sure to include your contact information.
Baked apple on a plate
dollop of cool whip
cold winter night yum
For more info visit http://www.ourladyofweightloss.com/
____________________________________________________
SEEKING STORIES FROM MATURE WOMEN OF COLOR
DEADLINE EXTENSION TO 2-29-04
We're publishing an anthology that's a celebration of your years of
seasoning; the book that's s a place for that life-changing, eye
opening, or healing experience you want to share with your Sistahs.
We continue to welcome manuscripts on all subjects, but specifically
need more in the following categories: discovering your sexuality,
finding your soul mate, career and job successes, achieving
financial freedom, women's health issues, celebrating life at 40 and
beyond, and stories about family. For guidelines and more info
www.seasonedsistahs.com
____________________________________________________
BREAD LOAF WRITERS CONFERENCE
The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference is one of America's most valuable
literary institutions. The 2004 Bread Loaf Writers' Conference will
be held from August 11 to August 22 in the Green Mountains of
Ripton, Vermont. The annual conference includes lectures, craft
classes, meetings with editors and agents, readings by faculty and
guests, and workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.
Among the faculty are Julia Alvarez, Ursula Hegi, and Antonya
Nelson. The application deadline for financial aid is March 1; the
deadline for general applications is March 19. For an application
and complete guidelines visit http://www.middlebury.edu/blwc/
____________________________________________________
WRITERS AT WORK FELLOWSHIP COMPETITION
In addition to conference events, Writers at Work offers an annual
Fellowship Competition for emerging writers in the fiction,
nonfiction, and poetry genres. Best-selling authors Rick Bass and
Pamela Houston were among early fellowship award recipients. Winners
are honored with cash prizes, publication opportunities, and in many
instances, the attention of agents and publishers attending the
annual conference in search of new talent. Deadlines: Entries must
be postmarked no later than March 1, 2004. For more info
http://www.writersatwork.org/fellowship.html
____________________________________________________
NEW DISCOVERY SHORT STORY CONTEST
The Writer & Rosebud announce the New Discovery Literary Awards
short story contest. $1,000 first place, $300 second place, $200
third place. Final judge: Jean Thompson, author of Wide Blue Yonder
and other novels and short story collections, who was a National
Book Award finalist for her short story collection, Who Do You Love,
and received fellowships from the National Endowment of the Arts and
the Guggenheim Foundation. Deadline Postmarked by March 1, 2004
For guidelines visit http://www.writermag.com/wrt/default.aspx?
c=a&id=1093
____________________________________________________
BOOK PROMOTION 101: CRASH COURSE FOR AUTHORS
National Press Club, Washington, DC
Friday, March 19
9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Price: $295 (Press Club members $250). Includes lunch.
Class limited to 12
Registration deadline: March 15
TO REGISTER: Call Sarah Jackson at the National Press Club: 202-662-
7511
BOOK PROMOTION 101 focuses on:
* Planning. Your goals for the book and how to achieve them.
* Pitch. A short, grabby description of your book to use in
interviews and press materials.
* Presentation. Giving interviews, speaking and reading in public,
doing book tours and bookstore appearances.
* Professionalism. Working effectively with your publisher's staff,
publicists, booksellers and the media.
Guest speakers:
Media trainer Carol Preston, CommCore Consulting Group, on
presentation skills
Sam Horn, Action Seminars/Consulting, on the "elevator pitch"
Marc Leepson, author of Saving Monticello, on doing your own
publicity
Book publicist Callie Oettinger, Oettinger & Associates
Activities include:
Drafting a marketing plan
Crafting a 30-second "elevator pitch"
Presenting pitches, with group feedback
Brainstorming publicity and promotional ideas for each book
Three-minute readings, with group feedback
"Ask the Experts" roundtable lunch
For more info http://www.bookpromotion101.com
____________________________________________________
CHUSMA HOUSE 1ST ANNUAL SHORT STORY CONTEST
Chusma House Publications has been publishing the works of Chicano
writers for over a decade. We are committed to the publication of
high-quality writing by both established and emerging writers. We
are currently seeking fine quality narratives for an anthology
entitled "Holding Up the Sky." We seek non-fiction short stories
written by women currently living in the United States, of all
ethnic backgrounds that reflect the every day challenges and
obstacles presented by the societies in which they live. Topics may
include stories of efforts to uphold your dignity, faith and/or
individuality in the face of race and gender discrimination,
responsibility of family, religious and/or cultural values
conflicting with daily life and/or experiences in the work place.
Deadline: Postmark by March 31, 2004 Send your entries to: 2004
Short Story Contest, c/o Chusma House Publications, P.O. Box 467,
San Jose, CA 95103. For submission guidelines
http://www.chusmahouse.com/contest.htm
____________________________________________________
LATINO BOOK AWARDS 2004
Deadline: April 1, 2004
Note—Authors can nominate themselves. Self-published books are
eligible.
In recognition of the many positive contributions being made to the
world of Latino literature by publishers and writers, Latino
Literacy Now, formerly known as the Latino Literary Hall of Fame,
has created its Annual Book Awards. Nominations are now open for
books with a 2003 publication date. The awards will be presented
during BookExpo America 2004 taking place at McCormick Place in
Chicago. These awards honor literary excellence in a variety of
categories. Latino Literacy Now is a non-profit organization that
supports and promotes literacy and literary excellence within the
Latino community. It also provides educational services related to
the book publishing industry. In addition to these book awards, the
organization also awards the Latino Literacy Now Lifetime
Achievement Awards for publishing excellence. Latino Literacy Now
works jointly on projects with the Latino Book & Family Festival a
two-day educational event that encourages reading, learning, and
close family relations. If you would like to receive information on
exhibiting and/or being a sponsor for the Festival please send me a
request by email (cecilia@...).
Thanks,
Cecilia Amoros, Director of Marketing,
Latino Book and Family Festival
(p) (760) 434 – 7474, (f) (760) 434 – 7476
cecilia@.... For more info
http://www.lbff.us/sponsors/press-room/latinobook/default.asp
____________________________________________________
PROFESSIONAL LATINA WRITER
Milca Esdaille, a professional writer with expertise in both the
Latino and African-American markets, combines her passion for
writing with her extensive business skills. Services offered include
writing book proposals, ghostwriting or co-writing manuscripts, as
well as writing business plans, press releases, and bios. For more
information, visit http://www.intelliwords.com.
____________________________________________________
LATINO TODAY SEEKS WRITERS
Latino Today, an award-winning monthly bilingual, bicultural
newspaper for the middle-class Latino reader, is seeking submissions
on Latino issues, trends, etc. Personal essays, poetry, columns on
issues, and photos welcome. Submission word count should be no more
than 300-350 words. We pay only $10-$20, but it's a good place for
beginners to get their first bylines/credits/experience and top-
notch editing. Queries and submissions should be forwarded to: Jesse
Chavarria, Editor/Publisher Latino Today, jesse@...,
(805) 348-1308 (desk), www.latinotoday.us
____________________________________________________
LATINA AGENT SEEKS LATINO WRITERS
Johanna Castillo of Sanford J. Greenburger Associates, Inc. is
looking for:
Fiction - Novels with a U.S. setting and Latino characters that
shatter stereotypes.
Nonfiction - Inspiration, spirituality, self-help, New Age, pop
culture, health, relationships, gay/lesbian, and sexuality.
Literary fiction about Latinos in the USA.
Modern day themes/current events.
Street life books for Young adults readers and adults. Highly
interested in Hip-Hop novels
Please submit a query letter, the first three chapters of the
manuscript, a synopsis of the work, a brief bio or resume, and a
stamped self-addressed envelope for reply. Original artwork is not
accepted (send copies only). Enclose a stamped, self-addressed
mailer if you wish to have your materials returned to you. We
generally reply to queries within 6-8 weeks. For non-fiction please
send a complete book proposal that includes: A table of contents,
one sample chapter, media information and a marketing section. Send
to: Sanford Greenburger Literary Agency, 55 Fifth Avenue, 15th
floor, New York, NY 10003, Attention: Johanna Castillo
____________________________________________________
SEEKING ACTION-ADVENTURE ROMANCE AUTHORS
Silhouette Books is looking for stories for its new Silhouette
Bombshell™ imprint, an action adventure romance line featuring a
strong, savvy, sexy heroine who always saves the day and gets her
man along the way.
Each Silhouette Bombshell book should contain an emotionally complex
heroine whom female readers can identify and empathize with from
start to finish.  In addition, the Silhouette Bombshell heroine
should have some special skill or talent.  That skill can be
physical, like weaponry or martial arts, or it can be intellectual.
The Silhouette Bombshell heroine can be anything from a forensics
investigator determined to solve a recent murder at any cost, to a
super-spy on a mission to save the world from destruction.  She can
be an ordinary woman called into an extraordinary situation, like a
flight attendant who must suddenly rely on her survival training to
keep her fellow plane crash survivors alive.
Some authors who create heroines with the elements of what we are
looking for are J.D. Robb, Maureen Tan, Janet Evanovich and Lindsay
McKenna.  Look to the great movie and TV heroines for inspiration:
Jennifer Garner in ALIAS, Jennifer Lopez in OUT OF SIGHT, the female
forensic scientists of CSI: MIAMI and CSI: LAS VEGAS, and don't
forget Angelina Jolie as Lara Croft in TOMB RAIDER.
Each book should contain:

Word count:  80-90,000 words
Point of view:  first/third person. The book should be told
primarily from the heroine's point of view, as this is her story.
Please limit use of other points of view to instances where the
story absolutely cannot be told from the heroine's point of view.
Settings:  urban, rural, international—there are no limits here.
Time period:  contemporary, though futuristic stories are also
welcome.
A strong, likeable and emotionally complex heroine who either has
(or discovers she has) a unique skill or ability.
A high stakes situation or element of high risk that the heroine
must overcome.
A compelling romantic subplot that ends in a satisfying way.  Though
not every Silhouette Bombshell book needs to end in marriage, there
should be some commitment at the story's end to take the
relationship to the next level, whether that be a first kiss, a new
emotional and/or sensual awareness between the couple, or marriage.
The would-be hero may arrive on the scene in chapter one, or he
might not be so apparent at first.  Whatever his role, his romance
with the heroine should be tension-filled, and ultimately,
fulfilling!

Launching in July 2004, the Silhouette Bombshell imprint will
feature 4 books a month. Find them wherever Silhouette Books are
sold or at www.eHarlequin.com. We are actively seeking new authors
for this line, so start writing! Please submit a detailed synopsis
(5-10 double-spaced pages) in addition to three sample chapters (for
published fiction authors) or a complete manuscript (for unpublished
authors) to:

Julie Barrett, Editor
Silhouette Bombshell
233 Broadway, Suite 1001,
New York, NY 10279

For complete guidelines and more information, please visit the Learn
to Write section of www.eHarlequin.com
____________________________________________________
UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO'S TAOS SUMMER WRITERS' CONFERENCE
Dates: July 10-16, 2004
The conference offers information and support for beginning and
experienced writers. We'll accept 120-150 participants on a first-
come, first-serve basis for weekend and weeklong workshops with a
student's choice of 12 instructors. Workshops are limited to 13
people each. The Conference offers participants a balance of special
events and free time. Those taking a morning workshop will have
afternoons free and vice versa. Both students and instructors will
give readings throughout the week. Other special events include a
visit to the D.H. Lawrence Ranch. For more info
http://www.unm.edu/~taosconf
____________________________________________________
VENDORS WANTED FOR BARRIO BOOKFEST 2004
Barrio BookFest 2004 is a first time grassroots book festival that
will take place in San Diego's oldest Mexican neighborhood, Barrio
Logan. Due to this being a first time event vendor tables will be
priced affordably to encourage attendance by community oriented
small businesses and organizations. Vendors will be able to
sell/display on Saturday May 15 only. If interested please email the
Barrio BookFest at barriobookfest@....
_____________________________________________________
LOS NOVELES
Los Noveles necesita de tu participacion. Si naciste a partir de
1960, eres adicto/a al arte de la palara y deseas expresarte, este
es el lugar adecuado. Para publicar en LOS NOVELES sólo es necesario
enviar el texto de tu obra -ya sea un poema, relato o cuento- a la
cámara correspondiente en formato DOC (Microsoft Word®), RTF o, si
fuera el caso, copiar y pegar el texto en el cuerpo del envío
electrónico. Naturalmente, se le pide a los participantes que dichos
trabajos no evidencien errores ortográficos ni gramaticales.
Asimismo, los futuros colaboradores deberán indicar los siguientes
datos personales requeridos para toda publicación en LOS NOVELES:

• Nombre o nombre artístico
• Nacionalidad
• Fecha de nacimiento y dirección de correo electrónico

Nota: (1) Participar en LOS NOVELES no implica de ninguna manera la
pérdida de los derechos de autor. Sin embargo, LOS NOVELES
recomienda a todos los colaboradores registrar su obra intelectual,
trámite que se deja a juicio del interesado. (2) El staff de LOS
NOVELES se reserva el derecho de calificar y publicar los textos
recibidos según su criterio. (3) LOS NOVELES sólo se compromete a
acusar el recibo de textos seleccionados para alguna de las
ediciones de la revista. (4) Los textos no aceptados serán
automáticamente eliminados del archivo de LOS NOVELES, no habiendo
por ende lugar a reclamo alguno ante alguna eventualidad. LOS
NOVELES no se hace responsable de la pérdida de textos originales
y/o copias. Para mas informacion
http://www.losnoveles.net/convocatoria.htm
____________________________________________________
THE OTHER HALF
The Other Half is a new quarterly publication dedicated to
presenting an eclectic collection of well written fiction, poetry
and creative non-fiction by emerging writers of color. The editors
invite submissions of previously unpublished work. Short fiction
should be limited to 7,500 words. Poets may submit up to three
poems. Creative non-fiction should be limited to 3,500 words.
Payment upon publication, including two copies of the issue. All
rights revert to author ninety days after publication. We have no
fixed preferences as to subject matter, style or genre. Our primary
requirement is that manuscripts exhibit quality writing. All
submissions should follow standard manuscript format (see Writers
Market). No manuscripts will be returned. Please include a self-
addressed, stamped envelope for a prompt response. Send manuscripts
to: The Other Half, c/o The John Oliver Killens Writers Workshop,
Inc., 399 Halsey Street, Brooklyn, NY 11233. For queries only, email
tcooper.otherhalf@....
____________________________________________________
Fin de semana y otros cuentos is the first fiction work of Luis
Larios Vendrell published in Spain by Calima Ediciones (Palma de
Mallorca). The author, who went into voluntary exile in 1965 due to
his opposition to the Franco regime, has lived essentially his
entire adult life in the US where he has taught Spanish at various
institutions. Presently he teaches at the University of Southern
California (USC). In his book the presence of the two countries is
evident. Spain is portrayed somewhat nostalgically, but the
characters, as their counterparts in the United States, struggle to
understand life and are forced to take drastic measures. Therefore
Larios is a "transition" writer who, although very much aware of his
cultural and linguistic roots, is a witness to the realities and
difficulties faced also by the Latino community in this country. The
well known Spanish literary critic Juliana Trejo who has written
extensively on the fiction and poetic work of Luis Larios Vendrel
stated that Fin de semana y otros cuentos represented a promising
contribution to the literary world. If you want to contact him,
please write to: larvend@.... In the United States only, the
book can be purchased from Editorial Ibérica, Fax: (31O) 833-9O66,
972 West 6th Street San Pedro, California 90731 for $15.00 which
includes postage and handling.
____________________________________________________
UPCOMING YO SOY LATINA PERFORMANCES
If you are interested in catching a performance of YO SOY LATINA!
check out the list of colleges we will be performing at. We will be
performing SOUL LATINA at the Nuyorican April 1, 2 and 3rd 2004. For
more info http://www.latinoflavored.com/

Upcoming Events:

Fri, February 06 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! College Version
08:00 PM YSL @ University of Wisconsin

Mon, March 01 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! College Version
08:00 PM YSL @ Kutztown University, Kutztown PA
Thu, March 04 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! College Version
08:00 PM YSL @ William Paterson College, New Jersey

Tue, March 09 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! College Version
08:00 PM YSL @ North Texas University, Denton TX
Fri, March 12 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! College Version
08:00 PM YSL @ Stonybrook University, Long Island, NY

Thu, March 18 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! Off Broadway Version
08:00 PM YSL @ North Carolina State, North Caroline

Fri, March 19 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! Off Broadway Version
08:00 PM YSL @ UNC Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Sat, March 20 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! Off Broadway Version
08:00 PM YSL @ Duke University, North Carolina
Tue, March 30 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! Off Broadway Version
08:00 PM YSL @ University of Delaware

Thu, April 01 2004
07:00 PM SOUL LATINA @ THE NUYORICAN

Fri, April 02 2004
07:00 PM SOUL LATINA @ The Nuyorican

Sat, April 03 2004
07:00 PM SOUL LATINA @ THE NUYORICAN
Mon, April 05 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! College Version
08:00 PM Ramapo College
Thu, April 15 2004 - YO SOY LATINA! Off Broadway Version
08:00 PM YSL @ DePaul University
____________________________________________________
WEPA! THE ELECTRONIC MAGAZINE FOR THE WIRED LATINO
Coming in February to the El Extreme website: the launch of WEPA!
electronic magazine featuring historic "live" MP3 interviews from
the Latin NY magazine vaults (1976-1979).WEPA! also features
contemporary reviews and commentary on the Metropolitan NY Latino
theater scene, culture, politics Bronx style, and current college
student perspectives. To Submit Features or Request Coverage:
Contact editor at elextrem3@... - email your contact number
(day/night) alternate e mail address (if applicable) and feature
idea. We are particularly interested in Latino student life on
Northeastern US campuses. For more info www.elextreme.info
____________________________________________________
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT
It has come to this: As reported on Publishers Lunch, the FBI has
warned law enforcement organizations across the country to beware of
anyone carrying almanacs, particularly if the books have been
annotated in suspicious ways. The FBI noted, "The practice of
researching potential targets is consistent with known methods of al-
Qaida and other terrorist organizations that seek to maximize the
likelihood of operational success through careful planning." They
did at least acknowledge that some almanac toting may simply be "the
product of legitimate recreational or commercial activities."
CNN on Almanacs http://www.cnn.com/2003/US/12/29/fbi.almanacs.ap/
____________________________________________________
PLEASE SHARE
If you have a book, web site, play, film, concert, workshop,
contest, scholarship, job opening, internship, product or service
that would be of interest to Latinidad's readers, send me an
announcement at marcelalandres@...
____________________________________________________
DID YOU LIKE THIS NEWSLETTER?
If so, forward it to friends and colleagues. If not, take the
Newsletter Survey and tell me what doesn't work and why:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm
____________________________________________________
Find past writing opportunities
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
Latinidad and include a link to http://www.marcelalandres.com/.

"Diligence is the mother of good fortune."
—Cervantes
Latinidad Newsletter © 2004

Latinidad Newsletter – January 2004

Please forward to friends and colleagues. You are receiving this
newsletter because you have expressed an interest in Marcela Landres
and her work. If this newsletter has been forwarded to you and you
wish to subscribe, please visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm.

CONTENTS:
1. Saludos
2. FAQ
3. Success Stories
4. Recommendations
5. News to Use
6. Author Spotlight
7. Upcoming Workshops
8. Writing Opportunities

1. Saludos
If your New Year's resolution is to land a book deal in 2004,
Latinidad may be of help to you. Latinidad's readers include over
900 Latino writers across the U.S. and abroad, as well as over 300
literary agents, and dozens of editors, publicists, and other
publishing professionals. As such, Latinidad is not only a resource
through which you can learn about the business of publishing, it is
also a vehicle through which you can connect with publishing
professionals—many of whom are interested in working with Latino
writers.
How can you connect with these publishing professionals? Send me
your success stories, especially if you have a web site on which
your writing samples are posted; if you have self-published a book,
send me a copy of your book, a press release, and a list of your
scheduled appearances; if you have been published but don't yet have
an agent, have your publisher send me a review copy of your book, a
press release, and a list of your scheduled appearances. If
appropriate, I will feature your success story or review your book
in a future issue of Latinidad, and I will link to your web site
and/or email address so publishing professionals can contact you.
Additionally, if you have a web site, play, film, concert, workshop,
contest, scholarship, job opening, internship, product or service
that would be of interest to Latinidad's readers, send me an
announcement for possible inclusion in a future issue.
My resolution for 2004 is to make Latinidad an indispensable tool
for Latino writers. To this end, I've created a survey, which
appears on this page of my web site:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id59.htm. I invite you to fill out the
survey and let me know exactly what works, what doesn't, and why.
The first five writers to send me a completed survey will receive a
free one-hour editorial consultation with me. Thank you in advance
for your feedback.

2. FAQ
Q: Why do most agents and editors prefer submissions on paper
instead of electronically?
A: If you're submitting a complete proposal, then it is simply too
long for an agent or editor to read on-screen. The proposal would
need to be printed in order to be given due consideration. Editors
and agents receive limitless piles of proposals, and have limited
time in which to read them. As such, they will naturally give
preference to those proposals that are submitted on paper and do not
require the extra step of being printed. Unless an agent or editor
specifically requests electronic submissions, avoid submitting your
proposal electronically.

Ask a question via marcelalandres@....
Find more FAQ http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

3. Success Stories
It's not everyday when a writer's work is compared to Like Water for
Chocolate. Congratulations to Eileen for inspiring such praise! May
her success story inspire a savvy agent to contact her for
representation.

"Happy Holidays to you and your familia J I just wanted to share
some happy news with you. Since the last time we corresponded, I've
had short stories accepted for publication by Quality Women's
Fiction Magazine (seems I've gone international—they're located in
the U.K.), Sundry Journal, and Thought Magazine. I grinned from ear
to ear when I read what Sundry had to say on their web site about my
short story "La Dona." Imagine being compared to Like Water for
Chocolate! You can read their comment at:
http://www.sundryjournal.com/currentissue.html. Hope you're doing
well! And, as always, thank you for your continuous support of
Latina authors.
Cheers,
Eileen Cruz Coleman
ecoleman@...
eccoleman@..."

Email Eileen ecoleman@... or
eccoleman@...
Share your success story via marcelalandres@...
Find more success stories http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

4. Recommendations
The National Latino Writers Conference established by the NHCCNM
(National Hispanic Cultural Center of New Mexico) is, to the best of
my knowledge, the only national Latino writers' conference which
caters to writers of all genres. I attended their inaugural
conference last year, and was very impressed. This year's conference
takes place on March 18th, 19th, and 20th. Nationally known authors,
agents, and editors will present workshops and panel discussions.
All attendees will have the opportunity to have three one-on-one
appointments with agents, authors, and editors. Only 50 writers will
be accepted, so apply now to reserve a space.
	 To register, and for more info, call 505-246-2261 ext 155,
or email lsachs@..., or visit www.nhccnm.org (click
on "Calendar of Events", then scroll down to "Latino Writers
Conference").

Offer a recommendation via marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

5. News to Use
There is a strong community of African-American independent
bookstores across the country. These bookstores traditionally offer
invaluable support to new and self-published African-American
authors, many of whom go on to launch literary careers with
mainstream publishers. African-American bookstores are arguably a
significant reason why African-American publishing is as vibrant—and
profitable—as it is. Sadly, there seems to be fewer Latino
bookstores, which may be part of the reason why Latino publishing is
smaller—in both number of authors published and books sold—than
African-American publishing.
The Mercury News article below describes the success of Raices, an
independent bookstore in Watsonville, California serving the Chicano
and Mexican communities. Raices did so well that owner Mark Gallegos
has opened stores at malls in San Jose and Salinas. Hopefully, the
success of Raices marks a growth in the number of independent Latino
bookstores across the U.S. In particular, there is a need for a
similar bookstore in New York, the center of book publishing and the
nation's third-largest Latino community.

Read Mercury News article "Latino culture gets a place in the mall"
by Joe Rodriguez
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/columnists/joe_rodrig
uez/7233732.htm
Suggest an article via marcelalandres@...
Find more news to use http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

6. Author Spotlight
The holidays are a popular time of year for couples to become
engaged. As such, it seems only appropriate to spotlight Edna
Bautista, an award-winning writer and bridal consultant, who
cleverly saw a hole in the wedding book market and created Viva el
amor: The Latino Wedding Planner - A Guide to Planning a Traditional
Ceremony and a Fabulous Fiesta. This one-of-a-kind Latino guide
offers tips on how to plan a menu, choose music, and adorn the
wedding party according to traditional customs. To all those who got
engaged this holiday season, I extend felicidades and I recommend
Viva el amor.
	 It is interesting to note that Bautista originally self-
published Viva el amor, and after selling a significant number of
copies on her own, got an agent and landed a book deal at a major
publisher.

Obtain Viva el amor
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0743213815/marcelalandre-
20/104-8738547-2879965?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
Suggest an author to spotlight via marcelalandres@...

7. Upcoming Workshops
3/19/04 - 3/21/04 - National Writers Union Writers Conference, Los
Angeles, CA

I will present a workshop and participate in a panel. Look out for
more details as we get closer to March. Till then, pencil in the
dates!

Location: Manhattan Beach Marriot

Request a workshop http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Upcoming workshops list http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

8. Writing Opportunities
Please forward inquiries to the contacts listed below.
____________________________________________________
REMINDER: SDSU WRITERS' CONFERENCE
As recommended in the December 2004 issue of Latinidad: The San
Diego State University Writers' Conference is one of the best in the
nation. Top-notch agents and editors attend, as do many talented
writers. Workshops are offered on subjects as diverse as "How to
Make a Good Living Writing Women's Fiction" to "Children's Picture
Books" to "Getting Your Book Made into a Movie" to "Writing
Publishable Poetry". In addition, writers can register for one-on-
one meetings with agents and editors. The next conference is
scheduled for 1/23/04 through 1/25/04. If you hesitate to invest in
the cost of the conference, add up all the printing, copying, and
mailing costs you've accrued to this point in your writing career
when submitting your work to agents and editors. For many of you,
this cost is already higher than the cost of the conference. Has the
money you invested so far paid off in a book deal? If not, you may
want to reconsider your current strategy. A good writing conference,
like this one, can prepare you to do just that. Note: there is a
discount if you register by 1/2/04. To register
http://www.ces.sdsu.edu/writers/registration.html. For more info
http://www.ces.sdsu.edu/writers/index.html
____________________________________________________
MARKETING FOR AUTHORS
Do you want to build a step by step marketing plan? Do you want to
write a press release that says exactly the right things? Do you
want to ensure the way you think you should promote your work is
indeed the best way? At the end of this six-week class you will know
all that and more and you'll have a customized plan that is tailor
made for your book—and only your book.
M.J. Rose (www.mjrose.com) and Douglas Clegg (www.douglasclegg.com),
novelists, co-founders of Pigeonhole Press, and co-authors of Buzz
Your Book will do much more than teach theory. They will help you
create the actual plans you need. And now, Jacqueline Duval, author
of Publicize Your Book! has joined Rose and Clegg to help authors do
even more fun and profitable marketing activities for their books.
Duval will critique the marketing plan students create during the
class and give valuable (and profitable!) input. Classes run for six
weeks from January 5th to February 10th. To register and for more
info visit http://www.writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html

Obtain Buzz Your Book
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00005U4U9/marcelalandre-
20/104-8738547-2879965?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
Obtain Publicize Your Book!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0399528636/marcelalandre-
20/104-8738547-2879965?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
____________________________________________________
ANDRES MONTOYA POETRY PRIZE
The Institute for Latino Studies/Notre Dame announces the Andres
Montoya Poetry Prize for Latino poets who have not published a book.
Winner will receive $1000 and publication by Notre Dame Press.
Judge: Robert Vasquez. Postmark entries by January 10. There is no
entrance fee. For guidelines and more info visit
http://www.nd.edu/~latino/poetry_prize/guidelines.htm
____________________________________________________
GLIMMER TRAIN'S FICTION OPEN
Eligibility: Open to all writers, all themes, subjects, and lengths.
Your entries must be your own, original, entirely unpublished
stories. Multiple entries are okay, but, please, no simultaneous
submissions. First-place winner receives $2,000, publication in
Glimmer Train Stories, and 20 copies of the issue in which it is
published. Second- and third-place winners receive $1,000/$600,
respectively, and acknowledgement in that issue. To submit your
stories go to our site, www.glimmertrainpress.com, log in, and click
on "Fiction Open". Reading fee (payable by visa or mc) is $15 per
story. Entries will be accepted through January 11th. Winners will
be called by April 10th. The top 25 list will be emailed to all
participants by that date.
____________________________________________________
MACDOWELL COLONY
MacDowell Colony offers residencies of up to two months to poets,
fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers on a 450-acre
estate near Mt. Monadnock in Petersborough, New Hampshire. Writers
are provided with room and board. For residencies from May 1 to
August 31, submit six sets of a published book of poetry or six to
ten poems; a published novel or two or three novel chapters (20 to
30 pages); a published story collection or two or three stories; a
published book of creative nonfiction or two or three essays; and a
description of the proposed project with a $20 application fee.
Deadline is January 15. For an application and complete guidelines
visit: http://www.macdowellcolony.org/apply.html
____________________________________________________
SECOND ANNUAL NATIONAL POETRY CONTEST
The contest will be judged by Poet Laureate Billy Collins.
	 Lumina, the literary magazine of the Graduate Writing
Program of Sarah Lawrence College, welcomes all work of the highest
standard, in any style or form. Winners will be published in spring
2004 Issue 3, and will receive $200 for 1st prize, $100 for 2nd, and
$75 for 3rd, in addition to 2 complimentary copies of Issue 3.
Entries must be postmarked by January 15, 2004. For guidelines and
more info visit http://pages.slc.edu/~lumina/contest
____________________________________________________
NATIONAL DIRECTORY OF EDITORS AND WRITERS FOR HIRE
Seeking freelance editors, book editors, copyeditors, ghostwriters,
copywriters, tech writers, and consultants and coaches for inclusion
in a national directory of editors and writers for hire, a directory
to be published by M. Evans and Company in 2005. Author/editor
Elizabeth Lyon. Contact elyon@... to receive a form for a
listing. No fee. Deadline to submit survey: January 20, 2004.
	 Elizabeth Lyon is the author of Nonfiction Book Proposals
Anybody Can Write, The Sell Your Novel Tool Kit, A Writer's Guide to
Nonfiction, A Writer's Guide to Fiction (May '04), all published by
Perigee (Penguin Putnam) www.elizabethlyon.com; www.4-edit.com
____________________________________________________
"DISCOVERY"/THE NATION 2003: THE JOAN LEIMAN JACOBSON POETRY PRIZES
Now in its 30th year, the "Discovery"/The Nation contest, co-
sponsored by the 92nd Street Y Unterberg Poetry Center and The
Nation magazine, is designed to attract large audiences to poets who
have not yet published a book of poems. Each of the four winners
will be awarded $500, a reading at the Poetry Center on Monday, May
10, 2004 and publication in The Nation.
	 Among the notable writers who were "Discovery" winners early
in their careers are Mary Jo Bang, Nick Flynn, Debora Greger,
Garrett Hongo, Katha Pollitt, Mary Jo Salter, Sherod Santos, Gary
Soto, David St. John, Ellen Bryant Voigt and Rosanna Warren. Grace
Schulman, Poetry Editor at The Nation, founded the contest and
coordinates the award. Each year three different leading poets are
invited to be judges.
	 Deadline: Entries must be received by Friday, January 16,
2004. For complete guidelines visit
http://www.92y.org/content/discovery_nation_poetry_contest.asp
____________________________________________________
DOBIE PAISANO FELLOWSHIPS
A stipend of $12,000 and a six-month residency at a retreat west of
Austin is given annually to a writer who is a native Texan, who has
lived in Texas for at least three years, or who has used Texas as
the subject of his or her published work. Submit three copies of a
manuscript of poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction of no more
than 50 pages in length and an application with a $10 entry fee.
Deadline is January 30th. For an application and complete guidelines
visit http://www.utexas.edu/ogs/Paisano/.
____________________________________________________
A ROOM OF HER OWN FOUNDATION GIFT OF FREEDOM AWARD
A grant of up to $50,000 is given biennially to a woman writer by A
Room of Her Own Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated
to "bridging the often fatal gap between a woman's economic reality
and her artistic vision." The 2004 grant, which will be awarded over
a two-year period and includes mentorship opportunities with
professional authors, is open to creative nonfiction writers. Submit
an application, completed essay questions, and writing samples of up
to 30 pages with a $15 application fee. Deadline is February 1st.
For complete guidelines visit
http://www.aroomofherownfoundation.org/application.htm.
____________________________________________________
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS LITERATURE FELLOWSHIPS
The NEA awards biennial grants of $20,000 to poets and grants of
$10,000 and $20,000 to translators of poetry. (The fellowships
alternate each year with fellowships in prose and prose
translation.) The grants enable recipients to set aside time for
writing, research, travel, and general career advancement. To be
eligible in poetry, applicants must have published a collection of
poetry of at least 48 pages or have 20 poems or pages of poetry
published in five or more literary publications that regularly
include poetry as part of their format. All books and poems must
have been published since January 1, 1997. Submit nine copies of 10
pages of poetry with an application. Poetry deadline is March 1. To
be eligible in translation, applicants must have published at least
48 pages of creative writing in literary publications or book form
since January 1, 1989. Submit nine copies of 10 to 20 pages of
translated poetry and the original work with an application.
Translation deadline is February 2. There is no entry fee. For
poetry application visit
http://www.arts.gov/grants/apply/Lit04/fellowships.html. For
translation application visit
http://www.arts.gov/grants/apply/Lit04/translation.html
____________________________________________________
SAN FRANCISCO WRITERS CONFERENCE
San Francisco, home of the country's second largest publishing
community, will host a major literary event worthy of its reputation
for nurturing great writers. The first San Francisco Writers
Conference will take place on President's Day Weekend, February 13-
15, 2004, at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel off Union Square. Some of
the writers scheduled to appear include Dorothy Allison, Kate Moses,
Catherine Coulter, Ishmael Reed, Aimee Liu, and Gail Tsukiyama.
To register http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/netcart.asp?
MerchantID=44738&ProductID=1438698
For program http://www.sanfranciscowritersconference.com/Schedule.htm
For more info http://www.sanfranciscowritersconference.com/
____________________________________________________
YOUNG LATINO MEMOIR ANTHOLOGY
Now seeking ambassadors of the heart, voyagers of the soul.
Destination: a collection of memoir essays written by high school
and college-aged Latinos. We are seeking essays rich with resonant,
physical detail and firmly rooted in a sense of both place and time.
Use your words to illustrate an important life story and become part
of the new generation of Latino voices in America. Submissions must
be postmarked by February 28, 2004.  About the Editor: Sarah Cortez
is a professional writer and creative writing teacher at the
University of Houston. She is the winner of the 1999 PEN Texas
Literary Award in Poetry and her debut volume of poetry was
published by Arte Publico Press. For guidelines and more info visit
http://btp.pdx.edu/memoir_anthology.htm
____________________________________________________
PUERTO DEL SOL'S SUPPLEMENT ON JUAREZ
Puerto del Sol is a semi-annual journal published through the
English department at New Mexico State University. It is
internationally recognized as one of the most original and bold
literary journals available today. In its 39th year of publication,
Puerto prides itself on publishing the works of today's freshest,
most exciting talents.
	 In keeping with Puerto's dedication to literary and artistic
excellence and the artistic work coming to light on important
cultural topics, we will be producing a special supplement of Puerto
del Sol during our anniversary year that will focus on the murdered
and missing women of Ciudad Juarez. Puerto invites emerging writers
and artists to submit poetry, short stories, novel excerpts, book
reviews, photo-essays, translations, essays, and other artwork
(reproducible in black and white) for this issue. We invite
submissions in both English and Spanish―if possible, in both.
Submissions should be postmarked no later than March 1st 2004.
Submit to: Bernadette Smyth, Editor, Juarez Supplement, Puerto del
Sol, MSC 3E, New Mexico State University, PO Box 30001, Las Cruces,
New Mexico 88003-8001. If you have any questions about this edition
or its contents, please feel free to contact Bernadette Smyth at
bsmyth@... or Kevin McIlvoy at kmcilvoy@.... For more info
about Puerto del Sol visit http://www.nmsu.edu/~puerto/puerto.html
____________________________________________________
LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDERED SHORT FICTION
Blithe House Quarterly, the leading online journal of lesbian and
gay literary fiction, is pleased to open submissions for its 2004
issues. Now in its seventh year of online publication, Blithe House
Quarterly features new short stories by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and
transgendered (LGBT) authors—both emerging and established. With an
average of over 24,000 readers per issue, Blithe House Quarterly is
the most widely read of LGBT literary periodicals. OUT Magazine has
called us "the central publishing arm of new queer fiction." A
recipient of Encyclopedia Britannica's Internet Guide Award, we are
also a featured site on internet hubs. We publish LGBT fiction not
as a genre or ghetto, but as a literature that can stand by any
other in its quality and innovation.
	 Appearing in BHQ can be a great way to be noticed. Stories
first published in Blithe House Quarterly have been reprinted in MEN
ON MEN, BEST AMERICAN GAY FICTION, BEST LESBIAN LOVE STORIES, and in
numerous short story collections. Anthology and magazine editors and
literary agents read BHQ and solicit material from people we've
published.
For submission guidelines, please visit http://www.blithe.com/. If
you have questions after reading the site's submission guidelines
and FAQ, please direct them to Aldo Alvarez at adalvarez@....
Deadline: March 1st, 2004
____________________________________________________
OUR BODIES OURSELVES SEEKING ANECDOTES
Hi, I'm writing the new chapter on Sexual Orientation and Gender
Identity for the 2005 edition of Our Bodies Ourselves, and I'm
looking for input. If any of you have read previous editions of Our
Bodies Ourselves you know that the book includes both anecdotes from
anonymous women related to the topics being discussed and resource
lists at the end of each chapter. It would be wonderful if you
could:
1. Visit the Our Bodies Ourselves website
http://www.ourbodiesourselves.org/obos05.htm and submit your
personal stories to be used in the book. I'm interested in including
a wide range of experiences in my chapter. I'd especially like
trans, people of color, disabled, intersexed, and working class
voices to be heard, but I encourage everyone to submit. No names
will be associated with the quotes. If you feel comfortable, it
would also be helpful for me if you sent me your stories directly so
I can incorporate your words into my chapter as I work.
2. Send me the names of your favorite books, websites, magazines,
novels, etc. that concern trans, intersex, sexual orientation,
bisexuality, gender discrimination, coming out, homophobia, and
finding unity issues. You can e-mail the names of your resources to
me at elindse1@....
—Elizabeth S. Lindsey, Philadelphia
____________________________________________________
CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE LATINO SOUL
The authors of Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul are currently
soliciting story submissions from Latino writers across the nation
(stories are preferred but poems are also accepted). Original works
are preferred but we will also consider your previously-published
work (if previously published, please list copyright information
when you submit). We are thrilled about the book and are committed
to making it a significant contribution to bringing positive
attention to the diversity of Latino life in the United States, and
to the beauty, power and critical perspectives of Latino writing.
	 Guidelines can be found at our bilingual website at
http://www.latinosoul.com.
Un saludo cordial,
Susan Sánchez-Casal, Ph.D.
Co-author, Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul
soup@...
____________________________________________________
THE SCRIPPS ACADEMY FOR HISPANIC JOURNALISTS AT THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN
NEWS
The Scripps Academy for Hispanic Journalists is a two-year training
and education program designed to help early-career Hispanic
journalists develop the skills to realize their full potential
within the newspaper industry. The entire program is spent working
at the Rocky Mountain News in Denver, Colorado.
Purpose: To identify, recruit, develop, place and establish career
paths for top, young Hispanic journalists at Scripps newspapers,
particularly the Rocky Mountain News, Naples Daily News, Ventura
County Star and Corpus Christi Caller-Times, in support of Scripps'
commitment to the National Association of Hispanic Journalists'
Parity Project.
Target Group: Hispanic journalists with three years or less of daily
newspaper experience, and recently graduated Hispanic students
seeking newspaper careers who have been exposed to daily newspaper
journalism through formal internships while in college.
For a complete program description and application form visit
http://cfapp.rockymountainnews.com/scrippshispanicacademy/
____________________________________________________
[Note: Caren Johnson is one of the few Latina agents in book
publishing. I know and like her very much.—Marcela]
ARE YOU THE NEXT OSCAR HIJUELOS, ERNESTO QUINONES OR CRISTINA GARCIA?
We are keen to find English language authors writing authentic
fiction and non-fiction that explores the uniqueness of the American
Latino experience. We invite both the published and unpublished to
submit material for review.
Guidelines:
Send queries and proposals by mail or web; takes 4-6 weeks for
review and response. Include a cover letter with all material. It
should contain a brief description of the proposed book, what genre
best fits the book, and a short bio of the author. For fiction
submissions, provide a concise synopsis (3-5 pages) that details the
beginning, middle, and end of the book. List established writers you
think your work most resembles. Include the first 50 pages of the
book for evaluation. Special consideration given to Latina-based
romance and mystery fiction. For non-fiction submissions, provide a
Table of Contents as well as an overview and expanded chapter
synopses, author bio, marketing, audience, and competing books
sections. Include a sample chapter. Explain in a paragraph or two
why readers of other similar books would buy your book. Make sure
your bio lists relevant writing credentials and publishing history
(if any), as well as relevant areas of expertise.
Resources:
* For additional submission guidelines, as well as information on
who we are, visit www.prlit.com.
* Publisher's Weekly has a magazine and website featuring the latest
news in the book world. Pick up a copy from your local newsstand or
local library reference section.
* Subscribe to the free industry newsletter www.publisherlunch.com
Library Journal /Criticas: Published six times per year, Criticas
proclaims itself "an English speaker's guide to the latest Spanish
language titles." Go to www.library]ournal.com  and click on one of
the Criticas icons.
* Subscribe to the Latinidad newsletter published by former Simon &
Schuster editor Marcela Landres by visiting her web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm
Send Queries and Proposals To:
By Post:  The Peter Rubie Literary Agency, Attn: Caren Johnson, 240
West 35th Street, Ste. 500, New York, NY 10001; by email:
sendmanuscript@...
____________________________________________________
EVENT PLANNING COMPANY LAUNCHES WEBSITE FOR AUTHORS AND PUBLISHERS
Mobile Media Access, Inc. a seminar and event planning company
announced today the unveiling of their website:
www.mobilemediaaccess.com. Mobile Media Access represents authors by
planning strategic events in public and private schools, colleges,
corporations, trade associations, non-profit organizations and
libraries, among others.
	 Through their department, Its All about the Authors, Mobile
Media Access arranges speaking engagements, book signings, lectures,
readings, private parties and various networking events for authors
and publishing houses. The fledgling company has already proven its
effectiveness through recent projects with author's Kadiatou Diallo
My Heart Will Cross This Ocean; My Story, My Son (One
World/Ballantine) and Deborah Gregory's Cheetah Girls (Jump Sun)
book series, now an incredibly popular Disney Channel Original Movie
and Soundtrack.
	 Authors, publishers, media representatives, students,
parents and interested parties are invited to visit Mobile Media
Access online: www.mobilemediaaccess.com and register on the
company's mailing list for updates, news alerts and periodical
newsletters.
____________________________________________________
STONE SOUP FOR THE WORLD AVAILABLE IN SPANISH
The Stone Soup Leadership Institute is pleased to announce Pan y
vino para el camino, the Spanish version of Stone Soup for the World
released by Random House en Español.

"The stories in Stone Soup for the World are a testament to the
Latino tradition of giving back. My hope is that after reading these
stories each one of you will be inspired to move beyond what you
think is possible by helping each other take ownership of your lives
and your futures."—from the introduction by Edward James Olmos

What People Are Saying About Pan y vino para el camino:

"Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful book.  Marianne Larned writes like
the Gods!"—Isabel Valdes, best-selling author, Spanish marketing
executive

"Pan y vino para el camino touches your heart and inspires you to
share yours with the world."—Rueben Martinez, The Libreria Martinez
Books & Art Gallery, Los Angeles

"Pan y vino para el camino will help guide and be a great tool for
the Latino community. These Latino heroes will inspire people of all
ages to make a difference in their lives or in someone else's life.
You're never too old or young to change the world and the lives of
those we meet on a day-to-day basis."—Marilyn Concepcion Cheyne,
Congressional Aide to Rosa DeLauro (CT)

Obtain a copy of Pan y vino para el camino
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1400000904/marcelalandre-
20/104-8738547-2879965?creative=125581&camp=2321&link_code=as1
____________________________________________________
MICROSOFT SCHOLARSHIPS
Microsoft recognizes the value of a diverse workforce and is
committed to hiring the best and brightest from all backgrounds.
Their scholarship program is designed to encourage students to
pursue careers in Computer Science and other related technical
fields. Microsoft is excited to be offering over a half million
dollars in scholarships for the 2004-2005 academic year.
Scholarships will range in value from $10K to half tuition to full
tuition. Applications must be postmarked by January 15, 2004. All
recipients of the scholarship will be required to complete a
salaried summer internship of 12 weeks at Microsoft Corporation in
Redmond, Washington. For more application info, go to
http://www.microsoft.com/college/scholarships
____________________________________________________
HISPANIC HERITAGE YOUTH AWARDS
The Hispanic Heritage Awards Foundation (HHAF) today launched their
seventh annual search for the top Hispanic high school seniors in 12
regions in an effort to identify and promote the next generation of
role models. Students can, for the first time, apply online at
www.HispanicHeritageAwards.org. Later this month, students can pick
up applications at 4,000 Subway restaurants in the Chicago, Dallas,
Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San
Antonio, San Diego, Northern California, and Washington, DC,
regions. Applications are due February 10, 2004. For application and
guidelines visit
http://www.hispanicheritageawards.org/press_news.php?id=25
____________________________________________________
FELLOWSHIPS FOR AMERICAN INDIAN WOMEN
Candidates for this award may be working in any graduate or pre-
professional field on a topic appropriate to the Newberry Library's
collections. Financial support varies according to need and may
include travel expenses. Allen fellows are expected to spend a
significant part of their tenure in residence at Newberry's D'Arcy
McNickle Center for American Indian History in Chicago, Illinois.
The tenure of the fellowship is from one month to one year. Each
applicant must submit a vita, description of her research project,
and a budget of travel and research expenses. Awards will vary from
$1,200 to $8,000 of approved expenses.
Application deadline: February 15, 2004. For more info visit
http://www.h-net.org/announce/show.cgi?ID=135589
____________________________________________________

Share a writing opportunity via marcelalandres@...
Find past writing opportunities
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
Latinidad and include a link to http://www.marcelalandres.com/. Past
newsletters are archived at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

"Who desires to see, desires also to be seen."
—Puerto Rican quote

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Please forward to friends and colleagues.

Latinidad Newsletter – December 2003

Please forward to friends and colleagues. You are receiving this
newsletter because you have expressed an interest in Marcela Landres
and her work. To subscribe, please visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm.

CONTENTS:
1. Saludos
2. FAQ
3. Success Stories
4. Recommendations
5. News to Use
6. Author Spotlight
7. Upcoming Workshops
8. Writing Opportunities

1. Saludos
This newsletter will undoubtedly find you in a rush of last minute
list-making and gift-buying. To ease your harried days, I've
compiled a handy-dandy list of books just for you. Not only are they
great gifts, they offer an opportunity for you to support Latino
writers. If you want copies for yourself, but are on a limited
budget (and who isn't?), create a Wish List of these and other books
you covet at Amazon.com and share your list with family and friends.
Enjoy, and happy holidays!

2. FAQ
Q: Many writing guides advise writers to write every day, but I just
don't have the time. Am I a real writer if I'm not writing everyday?

A: What separates writers from dabblers is writing regularly.
Writing every day is ideal, but not always realistic (especially at
this time of year). If you can't find time to write, then read.
Reading is to writing what knife-sharpening is to cooking:
preparation.

Ask a question via marcelalandres@....
Find more FAQ http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

3. Success Stories
Writing is really about rewriting. If you haven't been able to sell
a manuscript, chances are it needs to be rewritten. Stephanie
Elizondo Griest learned this first-hand with her manuscript for
Around the Bloc. Her web site
(http://www.aroundthebloc.com/writers.htm) shares in sobering detail
the preparation a writer must be willing to undertake in order to
land a book deal. Congratulations to Stephanie Elizondo Griest on
rewriting her way to publication!

"Querida Marcela,

A friend just forwarded me your newsletter & I spent much of last
night checking out your website. You are providing *such* an
invaluable service & resource to our literary community!! Really;
the information is so incredibly helpful, and presented in such a
friendly, engaging, professional way. Bravo!

I am so excited to share with you a little "success story" of my
own. Our mutual friend Monica and I met through the literary agency
she used to work with—she helped me edit my book proposal &
manuscript a couple years ago. I ended up doing NINE rewrites on
that proposal and three on the 400-page manuscript over a four year
period, but at long, long, last: I sold it! Next March, Villard will
be publishing my memoir/travelogue "Around the Bloc: My Life in
Moscow, Beijing, and Havana," which details my adventures as an
orphans' aid worker/propaganda polisher/belly dancer in the
Communist Bloc. I'll be sending myself on a "Bloc Party" book tour
next spring & summer across the US.

So I truly appreciate how much your newsletter means to Latinos who
are trying to navigate through this long & crazy literary process!
And it's wonderful that you are able to hold so many workshops to
help boost their confidence. I hope to do the same thing with
traveling & travel writing next year—I want to convince more Latinos
& other people of color to get out there and see the world!

Saludos,
Stephanie Elizondo Griest
"Around the Bloc: My Life in Moscow, Beijing, and Havana"
Villard/Random House, March 2004
www.aroundthebloc.com"

Visit Stephanie's web site: www.aroundthebloc.com
Share your success story via marcelalandres@...
Find more success stories http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

4. Recommendations
The San Diego State University Writers' Conference is one of the
best writing conferences in the nation. Top-notch agents and editors
attend, as do many talented writers. Workshops are offered on
subjects as diverse as "How to Make a Good Living Writing Women's
Fiction" to "Children's Picture Books" to "Getting Your Book Made
into a Movie" to "Writing Publishable Poetry". In addition, writers
can register for one-on-one meetings with agents and editors. The
next conference is scheduled for 1/23/04 through 1/25/04.
If you hesitate to invest in the cost of the conference, add up all
the printing, copying, and mailing costs you've accrued to this
point in your writing career when submitting your work to agents and
editors. For many of you, this cost is already higher than the cost
of the conference. Has the money you invested so far paid off in a
book deal? If not, you may want to reconsider your current strategy.
A good writing conference, like this one, can prepare you to do just
that. Note: there is a discount if you register by 1/2/04.

To register http://www.ces.sdsu.edu/writers/registration.html
For more conference info http://www.ces.sdsu.edu/writers/index.html
Offer a recommendation via marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

5. News to Use
A recent article by the Desert Sun reports the opening of a new
bookstore, "Latino Books y mas", in Palm Springs. If you live in the
area, or will be traveling to the area, make a point of visiting the
store and showing support. With the rise of chain stores,
independent bookstores are closing everyday, so the establishment of
a new bookstore—particularly one for Latinos—is cause for
celebration.

Read Desert Sun article
http://www.thedesertsun.com/news/stories2003/entertainment/2003103002
5340.shtml
Suggest an article via marcelalandres@...
Find more news to use http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

6. Author Spotlight
For adults: The Lady, the Chef, and the Courtesan by Marisol is the
modern-day answer to the dicho that a woman should be a lady in the
drawing room, a chef in the kitchen, and a whore in the bedroom.
Gabriela Grenales, a respected and beloved Venezuelan socialite,
wants her granddaughter Pilar to master all three roles and thus
avoid her own mistakes. To this end, upon her death Gabriela
bequeaths her journals to Pilar. Full of wise cuentos, the journals
reveal charming etiquette lessons and seductive recipes, as well as
heartbreaking secrets. The author, a Venezuelan-born resident of
Denver, writes with spirit, sensuality, and elegance.
Obtain The Lady, the Chef and the Courtesan.

For teens: Our Town meets The Lovely Bones in Gary Soto's spare and
at times poetic Afterlife. It begins with the end of the life of a
boy, Chuy, who journeys throughout his hometown of Fresno,
California encountering friends, family, and even fellow ghosts.
Chuy witnesses their varied responses to his death and realizes how
profound his absence is, and therefore his presence was, to them.
Soto, an award-winning author of numerous children's and young adult
books, captures the aspirations, self-consciousness and lingering
innocence that comprises adolescent life—even after death.
Obtain Afterlife.
Visit Gary Soto's web site.

For kids: From Cartwheel Books, an imprint of Scholastic, comes
Feliz Navidad, a beautifully illustrated rendering of the parranda,
a long-standing Christmas tradition in Puerto Rico. What I love best
about this book is that it is written and illustrated by Latinos:
The text is taken from Jose Feliciano's classic song "Feliz
Navidad", and the illustrator is Caldecott Medal winner David Diaz.
What better way to celebrate Navidad?
Obtain Feliz Navidad.
Visit Jose Feliciano's web site.

For pasteles-lovers: I grew up eating pasteles for Xmas (which is
odd, since they are considered to be Puerto Rican fare, and my
family is from Ecuador). If you did too then you probably know how
hard it is to find a good recipe for pasteles. Look no further,
because Puerto Rican Cuisine in America: Nuyorican and Bodega
Recipes by Oswald Rivera has one. It even has a diagram on how to
properly wrap them.
Obtain Puerto Rican Cuisine in America.

For tamales-lovers: Many Latinos grew up eating tamales for Xmas
instead of pasteles. For them, I heartily recommend Tamales 101: A
Beginner's Guide to Making Traditional Tamales by Alice Guadalupe
Tapp, co-owner of the restaurant Tamara's Tamales. Sprinkled with
mouth-watering color photographs and easy-to-follow instructions,
Tamales 101 includes vegetarian, low-fat, and even dessert
variations on this traditional staple.
Obtain Tamales 101.
Visit Tamara's Tamales web site.

Suggest an author to spotlight via marcelalandres@...

7. Upcoming Workshops
3/19/04 - 3/21/04 — National Writers Union Writers Conference, Los
Angeles, CA

I will present a workshop and participate in a panel. Look out for
more details as we get closer to March. Till then, pencil in the
dates!

Location: Manhattan Beach Marriot

Request a workshop http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Upcoming workshops list http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

8. Writing Opportunities
Please forward inquiries to the contacts listed below.
____________________________________________________________
STUDIO SCRIPT/STORY ANALYST AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS WITH
WRITERS AND FILMMAKERS. Get straight advice from a studio
professional on how to make your project the best it can be.
Services offered include screenplay consultations, development of
projects from concept to script, project redevelopment, creative
consulting, and rewrites. Credentials include eight years as a
script/story analyst for Miramax Films—including work done
on "CHICAGO," "CHOCOLAT," "THE HUMAN STAIN"—and stints as a
script/story analyst for HBO, Columbia Tristar Television, and IFP.
Contact Maureen Nolan at (212) 663-9389 or (917) 620-6502.
____________________________________________________________
NATIONAL LATINO WRITERS CONFERENCE
March 18th, 19th, and 20th 2004
NHCCNM (National Hispanic Cultural Center of New Mexico)
Nationally known authors, agents, and editors will present workshops
and panel discussions. All attendees will have the opportunity to
have three one-on-one appointments with agents, authors, and
editors. Only 50 writers will be accepted, so apply now to reserve a
space.
To register, and for more info call 505-246-2261 ext 155, or email
lsachs@... or visit www.nhccnm.org
____________________________________________________________
AWARD FOR LATINO FICTION WRITERS
Miguel Marmol Prize
An advance of $1000 and publication by Curbstone Press is given
annually for a first book of fiction by a Latino writer that
reflects a respect for intercultural understanding, human rights,
and civil liberties. Writers who have not previously published a
book of fiction are eligible. Luis J. Rodriguez, author of Always
Running, will judge. Submit a book-length fiction manuscript of
approximately 200 pages with a $15 entry fee. Deadline is December
15th. All entries will be considered for publication. Send an SASE,
call, e-mail, or visit the web site for complete guidelines.
Curbstone Press
Miguel Marmol Prize
321 Jackson Street
Willimantic, CT 06226
Co-Director Alexander Taylor: 860-423-2998, sandy@...
www.curbstone.org
____________________________________________________________
SONS AND FATHERS OF SONS
Manuscript submissions are now being accepted for the upcoming Black
gay anthology Sons and Fathers of Sons (working subtitle: We Are Not
Our Fathers: Essays by Black Gay Menace). The anthology will be
limited to works of prose, although poetry accompanying an essay may
also be considered for publication. Essays should reflect on the
relationship dynamics (or lack of) of a Black gay/msm/sgl male with
his father, father-figure, etc. Essays should not be in excess of
2000 words.
Deadline for submission is December 15, 2003.
Submissions should be mailed to:
C. R. Wilson
75 Willett Street, Apt. 6K
Albany, NY 12210
Or email to rhwilson313@....
Please include a SASE if you wish your manuscript to be returned by
mail. Contact rhwilson@... if you have further questions.
____________________________________________________________
THE ANDRE DUBUS AWARD IN SHORT FICTION
Fiction writer Elizabeth Searle will judge all entries.
	 Page restrictions: 20 pages typed, double-spaced for
fiction. Each story constitutes one entry. Winners will be published
in the 2004 edition of Words & Images and receive a cash prize.
	 Entry fee: $12.00 for each entry (checks made payable to
Words & Images). Entries must be clearly addressed to:
The Andre Dubus Short Fiction Award
Words & Images
11Baxter Blvd,
P.O. Box 9300
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME 04103-9300
Deadline: Entries must be postmarked by December 28, 2003.
For complete guidelines visit
http://www.wordsandimages.org/Submissions/Guidelines/dubusguidelines.
htm
____________________________________________________________
CALL FOR WIVES OF WAR SUBMISSIONS
Seeking submissions for Wives of War: From the Hearts of Those Left
Behind to be published in 2005. Wives of War is an anthology of
narrative non-fiction essays covering five American wars beginning
with World War II to our most recent Operation Iraqi Freedom. The
stories must be original and from the military wife left behind
during a wartime season covering one of the following themes: Wives
of Courage, Wives of Love, Wives of Fear, Wives of Hope, and Wives
of Loss. Each story must take place while the husband is away
serving in combat. Novice and experienced authors are encouraged, as
well as previously published work. Length: 1,000 to 4,000 words.
Small honorarium. Deadline: December 31, 2003. Include your name,
phone number, e-mail address and a brief bio in manuscript.
For inquiries e-mail: wivesofwar@...
Guidelines or submit to:
Marlo Brooks
C/O Epiphany Management
P.O. Box 152049
San Diego, CA 92195
____________________________________________________________
OUTSIDERS WITHIN: TRANSRACIAL ADOPTEES WRITE ON RACE AND BELONGING
Please send your most provocative poetry, memoirs, and stories. We
are particularly interested in topics which include but are not
limited to: international adoptions; adoption of Native and Black
people; genocide, including cultural genocide; gift cultures; gender
and sexuality; debates over same race policies; legal perspectives;
adoption and criteria of mental health; spirituality; colonialism,
imperialism, and paternalism; adoption as an industry; theorizing of
identity (including assimilation, racialization, hybridity and
floating identity); fragmentation; globalization and diaspora;
gendered racism and racist sexism; stereotypes; alienation; and
marginality. We prefer previously unpublished pieces, but will
republish pieces of exceptional quality. Send all submissions and
inquires to: jane@...
Deadline: December 31, 2003
For complete guidelines visit
http://www.sunyungshin.com/call_for_submissions.htm.
____________________________________________________________
THE HURSTON/WRIGHT AWARDS FOR COLLEGE WRITERS
To honor excellence in fiction writing by students of African
descent enrolled full time as undergraduate or graduate students in
any college or university in the United States.
	 First place award of $1,000; two finalist awards of $500.
	 Eligibility: At the time of submission, applicants must be
enrolled in a college or university full time as an undergraduate or
graduate student. Writers who have published a book in any genre are
ineligible.
How to Apply: Those interested in applying for the 2004
Hurston/Wright Award should submit two (2) copies of a typed (double
spaced) manuscript of no more than twenty-five (25) pages to:
The Hurston/Wright Awards
6525 Belcrest Road
Suite 531
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Entries must be postmarked no later than December 31, 2003.
	 For complete guidelines visit http://www.hurston-
wright.org/hw_award.html
____________________________________________________________
YO HABLO, YO SOY. Y QUE!: NEW PERSPECTIVES FROM LATINAS/OS ON THEIR
DYNAMIC LANGUAGE EXPERIENCES
Latinas/os are often presented in media, academic, and popular
discourse in a traditional immigrant model that measures
assimilation solely through language usage. We find this model to be
lacking in terms of the complexities of language experiences that we
ourselves have lived. To illustrate how Latina/o self-identification
is inflected through a variety of language experiences, we are
seeking submissions in a variety of genres for an anthology that
focuses on the subject of "Latina/o Language Experiences." Such
experiences may run the gamut from childhood stories, interactions
between lovers, workplace relations or between family members,
educational or religious experiences, interactions among Latinas/os,
or with other cultural groups. We believe that the diversity of
perspectives and voices offered will provide insight into the fluid
dynamic of social, class, cultural, communal, and national identity
formation and provide insight into how identity is formed, lost,
maintained, or otherwise negotiated through language usage.
This collection challenges the notion that there is a one-to-one
correspondence between language practice and ethnic identity. Our
observations tell us that people's relationship with language is
dynamic, fluid, and circumstantial.
- How, for instance, does language usage reflect cultural
allegiance, ethnic "authenticity", community identification, and the
politics of cultural inclusion and exclusion?
- What are the political, economic (class), emotional, and spiritual
dimensions of language?
- How do we use language as a tool for community building and
political solidarity?
- How has language been used as a basis for division or exclusion?
- How has language shaped and been shaped our attitudes and
experiences about gender, sexuality or sexual identity?
- How do our language choices, limitations, and capacities affirm as
well as frustrate our relationships with others?
- Has the "Latinoization" of the U.S. affected the mainstream's
perception of linguistic practices and the homogenization of U.S.
Latinas/os?
- How are language experiences distinct among generations of
Latinas/os?
	 Submissions may include, but need not be limited to, topics
as linguistic chauvinism, linguistic pride, linguistic deficiency or
shame, and advantages of bi- or multi-lingualism. Historical
perspectives might consider how our language practices functioned to
enable or facilitate community survival and resistance. Submissions
can be in any fiction or non-fiction style such as poetry or prose,
short interview, short oral history written in essay format, or
personal memoir. What we are looking to compile is a portrayal of
the wide range of experiences that reflects the complexity of
Latina/o language experiences and which, taken collectively, asserts
meaning about the significance of language as a means of self-
fashioning and self-identification.
Submissions are due: January 15, 2004. Send entries electronically
or mail to/For more information, contact:
Louis Mendoza (lmendoza@...)
Toni Nelson Herrera (toni.nh@...)
Department of English
Department of History
University of Texas, San Antonio
University of Texas, Austin
6900 N. Loop 1604 South
San Antonio, TX 78249
____________________________________________________________
THE 2004 PEN/ROBERT BINGHAM FELLOWSHIPS FOR WRITERS
Call for nominations from writers, editors, and agents
Three two-year fellowships, each $35,000/year
Honoring exceptionally talented fiction writers whose debut work—a
first novel or collection of short stories published in 2002 or 2003—
represents distinguished literary achievement and suggests great
promise. Nominations are welcome by January 15, 2004 from writers,
editors, literary agents, and members of the literary community. For
more information, visit http://www.pen.org/awards/bingham.htm or PEN
American Center.
____________________________________________________________
ANTHOLOGIES: HEARTBEATS III, JEWISH WRITERS AT THEIR BEST,
HEARTBEATS ON WOMEN'S HEALTH AND PERSONAL ISSUES
Shoshana Lepon, editor, lepon@...
	 I need stories, essays, fiction, nonfiction, humor, poems,
etc. You are welcome to send as much material as you want.
Jewish Writers at Their Best: Any subject (Jewish or not) or style.
Not political, not didactic, not dry reportage, not derivations of
the Torah unless in creative writing style. I'm looking for depth of
emotion, whether funny, poignant, sad, moving, or thought provoking.
I'm also looking for excellence in writing.
Women's Health and Personal Issues: Any subject such as: pregnancy &
childbirth, infertility, mikveh, women's illnesses, growing old,
beauty issues, weight, husband-wife relationships, etc. The readers
of Heartbeats span the entire spectrum of Jewish affiliation plus
non-Jews interested in Jewish writing.
LENGTH: No word length requirements
RIGHTS: One time anthology rights, author retains rights
PAYMENT: Original work: $10/printed page plus copy; Reprints:
$5/printed page plus copy
REPRINTS: Yes
SUBMISSIONS: By email, please copy and paste in body of message.
GUIDELINES: For more information send email to: lepon@...
____________________________________________________________
CATS DO IT BETTER THAN PEOPLE: A Companion Book to Dog People Do It
Better by Theresa Mancuso
I am a published author compiling a book of kitty anecdotes to be
published by Adams Media and I invite your participation in exchange
for a free book and the everlasting glory of your feline pal. You
will get full credit in the book for your writing.
SYNOPSIS: There are two kinds of people in this world: Dog People
and Cat People. Contrary to what some humans may think, cats and
dogs get along marvelously well together and that's because they
share a special four-legged furry wisdom. If you've read Dog People
Do It Better, you probably understand quite well that dogs teach us
how to live without trying to do so. Dogs are often completely
unaware of the gifts they bestow on their humans. But, maybe what
you don't know if you've never lived with a cat, or perhaps, even if
you have, is that cats teach us, too, but they know it! Cats realize
their wisdom and they're proud of it. Cats understand that humans
need them and they exercise awesome control over their people. Cats
are very aware of the gifts they bestow and this book will help you
be more aware of them, too. Cats Do It Better than People – whatever
IT is -- is about the wisdom of cats approached from several
perspectives, that of dogs, people, and mice. Let's face it, folks,
cats are amazing creatures and they KNOW it.
DIRECTIONS FOR CONTRIBUTORS:
1. Each anecdote must be sent individually by email or snail mail.
Enter as many as you wish. All anecdotes will be carefully
considered for publication, edited, and credited to you.
2. At the bottom of each anecdote (even if you send several!), print
or type: your full name, snail mail home address, telephone number,
and email address. Use the name you want to appear in the book.
3. If possible, draw a lesson from the story you tell. If that's not
possible for you, don't worry about it, I will find the lesson. Feel
free to write whatever stories you want to share! Select your
chapter preference if you have one.
4. At the bottom of each separately sent anecdote (even if you send
several!), include a 75-word bio of yourself.
PARTICIPANTS MUST COMPLY WITH THESE DIRECTIONS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR
CONSIDERATION OF PUBLICATION.
Please pass this request along to the cat lovers you know—and even
to people who hate cats! They also have their story. There's a very
tight deadline so please don't linger! Hurry and join the fun!
Remember, you get a free book and your cat gets everlasting glory!
We think it's worth the effort! Contact me at this email address:
Geisty@... and send your stories here, too. Looking forward
to your fat, funny, frisky, tales--or even, not so fat, not so
funny, but perhaps, serious tales, sad, true, wonderful or terrible,
marvelous stories of cats you have known and loved—or hated.
	 Theresa Mancuso, 310 Beverly Road, # 4-F, Brooklyn, New York
11218, U.S.A., Tel. (718) 633-9678
____________________________________________________________
CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP
scratch theatrical, in association with SCRATCH ®  DJ ACADEMY, is
now offering a creative writing workshop lead by two time Tony
nominated poet, Bring in da Noise/Bring in da Funk, reg e gaines.
The workshop will help aspiring poets bridge the gap between
contemporary urban poetry and dramatic arts. "The Theatricalization
of Poetic Expression" will focus on poetry which has moved from
street corners, church basements and poetry cafes, into the theater
community's consciousness.
	 Melvin Van Peebles, Aint Suppose To Die A Natural Death,
Short Eyes, by Miguel, "Mikey" Pinero, For Colored Girls Who Have
Considered Suicide, by Ntozake Shange, reg e gaines' Bring in da
Noise/ Bring in da Noise and Russell Simmons, Def Poetry Jam on
Broadway, are some of the text which will be studied. The intention
is to help writers better realize their own poetic possibilities by
understanding how far poetry, as theater, has come. The use of
audio, visuals, and guest appearances by poets whose works are
currently making their mark on contemporary American theater, help
to make a unique and valuable experience. Workshop participants will
write poems based on real life or imagined ideas then recreate their
writings into dramatic collages, poetic monologues and solo or group
plays. By studying theater components such as, Recurring Themes,
Reprise and Character Development, we see poetic devices such as
Sound Symbolism, Imagery and Rhythm & Rhyme as techniques which can
be synthesized to create a new theater.
	 Classes will be held at SCRATCH ®  DJ ACADEMY, located at
434 Sixth Avenue in Manhattan. Sessions will be limited to (12)
participants. The only requirements are a love of poetic expression
and the belief that contemporary theater can better represent the
true face of America.
	 For fees and scheduling, contact reg e gaines, at
212.529.1599 x322 or, reg@...
____________________________________________________________
FREELANCE WRITERS FOR THECIRCUITONLINE.COM
We are looking for writers for an African-American interactive
website. We have a number of pre-defined topics and need people to
research and write brief (1-2 page) articles, or short sidebars, for
an African-American audience. We also welcome new topics and ideas.
Please note that we DO edit articles submitted to us. Authors are
given a byline and an email address at which readers can contact
them. Website: www.thecircuitonline.com (our website receives
approximately 8,000 page views per month) Audience: African-American
alumni and students of 34 of the world's top universities (see our
website for our school listing) Article topics include: Careers,
Relationships, Health/fitness, Politics, Personal Finance and
Travel. Please include Resume/CV and published clips (if available)
when you write. We currently pay $50 per article ($25 for sidebars)
but anticipate increasing this amount in the near future.
Opportunities for columnists are also available. Email:
info@...
____________________________________________________________


MERCHANTS OF THE SUN
A riveting tale of murder, theft and reprisal set in the mysterious
underworld of the modern-day Maya.
	 Dr. Carlos Arroyo, a cave archaeologist in Mexico's rugged
backcountry, has earned a reputation amongst archaeology's elite for
leading the most grueling expeditions and uncovering key finds.
Now, diving the submerged caverns of the Yucatan, he's unearthed a
secret that could make this expedition his last.
	 Read an excerpt of this new suspense thriller by A.A.
Marroquin at www.merchantsofthesun.com.
	 Arturo Marroquin began writing towards publication while
collecting his medical degree.  He has worked in New York City as a
medical resident and has traveled throughout Latin America.
Merchants of the Sun is his first work of fiction.
____________________________________________________________
SEEKING LATINA ACTRESSES
Latino Flavored Productions Inc. is seeking Latina actresses ages 18-
40 for our 2004 U.S. College and New York City theater performances
of YO SOY LATINA! Send Headshots and Resumes to: Latino Flavored
Productions Inc. PO BOX 40728 Staten Island, NY 10304. For more info
on company visit www.latinoflavored.com. Deadline: 12/31/03.
____________________________________________________________
FILM AND FICTION SCHOLARSHIPS
Up to $10,000 in tuition and stipend to support MFA students
pursuing degrees in filmmaking, fiction writing, or playwriting.
Students should demonstrate interest in classical liberal ideas and
their application in contemporary society and demonstrate the
desire, motivation, and creative ability to succeed in their chosen
profession.
Deadline January 15, 2004.
For more info visit http://www.theihs.org/subcategory.php/15.html
____________________________________________________________
THEATRICAL READING: THE LANGUAGE OF STARS.
The Language of Stars
Written by Magdalena Gomez
Directed by Beatriz Cordoba
Repertorio Espanol
138 East 27 Street
NYC, NY
December 8th at 6:30 pm
Admission is FREE!!
Please mark you calendars and invite your friends.
	 I want to hear the play with an audience present, as it will
be a great help in my development process. The play is one of ten
finalists in Repertorio's play competition. The final winners will
be determined after the readings. Feel free to cut and paste the
reading information and send it on to friends. Thanks for all your
support.
Gracias y Abrazos,
Magdalena Gomez
____________________________________________________________
COLLEGE PLANNING WEEKEND, January 24 & 25, 2004
Although college may be a year or two away for you, it is important
to think ahead. Attending Barnard's College Planning Weekend is a
step in the right direction. The College Planning Weekend which will
take place Saturday, January 24 and Sunday, January 25, 2004,
provides a unique opportunity for you to acquire in-depth
information about applying to college from a number of different
private institutions. In one weekend, a variety of panels will give
you the chance to learn about the various institutional and academic
factors you should consider when choosing a college. You will also
learn important tips in essay writing, interviewing, and financial
aid that will help you understand the college application process.
Come for one day or two; there is no fee to attend!
To register visit
http://solar.barnard.columbia.edu:6700/Registration_for_College_Plann
ing_Weekend.htm
For more info visit http://www.barnard.edu/pcp/cpwindex.html
____________________________________________________________
YOUNG WOMEN'S ETHICAL LEADERSHIP RETREAT
We are gearing up for Woodhull's December Young Women's Ethical
Leadership Retreat at our beautiful retreat center in Ancramdale,
New York. It will take place from December 5th to the 7th and
promises to be a wonderful retreat, with exciting participants and
speakers in attendance. We still have spaces available for the
retreat. If you know of any dynamic women who would be interested in
attending, please don't hesitate to pass their names along or have
them contact us here in the office. Applications can be downloaded
from our website as well at www.woodhull.org, or can be e-mailed
directly to any interested parties.
Many thanks and I look forward to hearing back from you all!
All the best,
Cindi Cook
Program Coordinator
The Woodhull Institute for Ethical Leadership
770 Broadway, Suite 201
New York, NY 10003
Phone: 646-495-6060
Fax: 646-495-6059
www.woodhull.org
cindic@...
____________________________________________________________
FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR LABOR ORGANIZERS
Monday December 8th
6:30 PM
Lafayette Bar and Grill in Downtown Manhattan
Suzan Erem, author of Labor Pains, a painfully honest look at
contemporary labor organizing by a participant in it, will be
reading from her book and will take questions about the book,
organizing and the labor movement. She is traveling on her own dime
all the way from Western PA to help raise funds for the Members
First! slate of candidates for national leadership of the National
Writers Union, UAW. We have incurred large expenses in order to get
our message out and to win this election. We're hoping that we can
raise some funds to pay rent, eat and pay for gas—stuff we gave up
or borrowed against for this campaign. Please bring crowds of people
to this event. You'll love Suzan and her book, especially if you
yourself are an organizer or have suffered from that condition in
the past. Information on Members First! and the National Writers
Union, UAW will also be available.
____________________________________________________________
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT
If you are a devotee of organic food, or are a fan of the film The
Matrix, you will enjoy this way cool web site:
http://www.themeatrix.com/
____________________________________________________________

Share a writing opportunity via marcelalandres@...
Find past writing opportunities
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
Latinidad and include a link to http://www.marcelalandres.com/. Past
newsletters are archived at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."
—Lucius Annaeus Seneca

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Please forward to friends and colleagues.

Latinidad Newsletter – November 2003

Please forward to friends and colleagues. You are receiving this
newsletter because you have expressed an interest in Marcela Landres
and her work. To subscribe, please visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm.

CONTENTS:
1. Saludos
2. FAQ
3. Success Stories
4. Recommendations
5. News to Use
6. Author Spotlight
7. Upcoming Workshops
8. Writing Opportunities

1. Saludos
The holidays are fast approaching, and our usual crazy-busy
schedules will become even more crammed with family get-togethers,
office parties, and gift-shopping. Finding time to write may seem
next to impossible. While you probably won't be able to write a 300
page novel, you can dust off old stories and mail them to writing
competitions. A number of them are represented in the Writing
Opportunities section of this newsletter and on my web site
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id24.htm, but don't limit yourself to
these. Use the resources offered below as a jumping off point to
learn about the vast world of writing contests, research which are
best for you, and submit your work. One way unpublished writers are
different from published writers is that unpublished writers adapt
themselves to the world, while published writers make the world
adapt to them.

2. FAQ
What are the top literary contests? Where can I find submission
guidelines and deadlines for them?

In addition to this newsletter, there are various magazines, books,
web sites, and listservs that track writing contests. One of the
more trustworthy sources is Poets & Writers's web site, which
publishes a listing of grants, contests, and awards with pending
deadlines. The magazine has been tracking competitions for more than
30 years, and lists only those that will benefit a writers' career
and (with a few exceptions for prizes of stature) that offer $1,000
or more in prizes. Bookmark their web site and visit regularly so
you'll have plenty of time to polish your pieces and submit by the
appropriate deadlines.

Poets &Writers listing http://www.pw.org/mag/0311/deadlines.htm
Ask a question via marcelalandres@....
Find more FAQ http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

3. Success Stories
The motto "You gotta be in it to win it" applies to more than Lotto.
Winning competitions is one of the best ways for writers to raise
their profiles in the literary community. Lamentably few of the
winners are Latino. Even more lamentably, the primary reason Latino
writers are underrepresented is because they don't submit their
work. Perhaps it is because they are busy, or they aren't aware of
these opportunities, or they fear their writing isn't good enough.
Competition winners aren't necessarily the best living writers in
the world; there may very well be better writers with less
confidence or savvy who didn't participate. If you submit, there's
no guarantee you'll win. But if you don't submit, you are guaranteed
to lose. Congratulations to Mark Smith-Soto, whose writing career is
off to a winning start.

"Just a note to say I very much appreciate your alerting us to
opportunities we might otherwise easily miss—I sent some poems to be
considered for the forthcoming Virgil Suarez and Ryan Van Cleave
anthology Red, White and Blues which you mentioned some time ago,
and was lucky enough to have them accept two for publication. I am
also pleased to say that University Press of Florida just brought
out my collection Our Lives Are Rivers, I believe the first
published by a Costa Rican-American in this country.
Again, mil gracias!
Mark Smith-Soto"

Share a success story via marcelalandres@...
Find more success stories http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

4. Recommendations
There are so many literary contests, it's hard to differentiate the
reputable from the less reputable. An excellent tool with which to
separate the wheat from the chaff is "13 Warning Signs of a Bad
Poetry Contest" by the first-rate Winningwriters.com. Most of these
warning signs are applicable to any kind of writing contest, not
just poetry. While you're visiting the warning signs list, make time
to check out the rest of Winningwriters.com, including Poetry
Contest Insider, a quarterly online guide profiling over 400 poetry
contests annually ($19.95/year). The site's free offerings include
guidelines on how to format your contest submissions, and a free
newsletter with great literary resources, award-winning poems, their
upcoming contests and poetry critiques, plus a quarterly supplement
with special offers relating to poetry, books and writing.

"13 Warning Signs of a Bad Poetry Contest"
http://www.winningwriters.com/warningsigns.htm
Winningwriters.com http://www.winningwriters.com
Offer a recommendation via marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

5. News to Use
The November/December issue of Poets & Writers magazine features not
one, not two, but three articles about contests. One is from the
point of view of a sponsor, the second from a judge, and the third
from a coordinator. Each offers insights on the inner workings of
contests. While some of Poets & Writers articles are archived on
their web site, most are not. As such, I strongly recommend you
purchase this current issue, available at most newsstands, or check
it out at your local library. These articles, along with Poets &
Writers regular listing of top writing competitions, are reason
alone to start a subscription to this exceptional magazine today.

Articles excerpts http://www.pw.org/mag/features.htm
Subscribe to Poets & Writers here
Suggest an article via marcelalandres@...
Find more news to use http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

6. Author Spotlight
Angeles Mastretta is a critically acclaimed Mexican writer who isn't
as well-known in the U.S. as she should be. This month, Riverhead is
publishing a lovely edition of her most widely read work, Women with
Big Eyes, in its first English translation. Women with Big Eyes is
not a novel, and not quite a short story collection. It is instead a
finely-crafted tapestry of vibrant women's voices. The women are
sexy and knowing, mesmerizing and memorable, modern yet timeless.
Mastretta's daughter inspired these voices when she fell gravely ill
as an infant, causing her mother to sit by her bedside weaving
stories of her extraordinary female relatives to convince her she
was a necessary link in the family chain. The stories worked, and
her daughter survived. Women with Big Eyes will inspire you to save
and share your own stories.

Obtain the English/Spanish edition here
For more info about the author visit here
Suggest an author to spotlight via marcelalandres@...

7. Upcoming Workshops
3/19/04 - 3/21/04 — National Writers Union Writers Conference, Los
Angeles, CA

I will present a workshop and participate in a panel. More details
tk.

Location: Manhattan Beach Marriot

Request a workshop http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Upcoming workshops list http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

8. Writing Opportunities
__________________________________________________________
The National Latino Media Council
proudly presents the
Latino Television Writers Program

This program is not for beginners. It is for those writers who can
write a half-hour comedy or one-hour dramatic television script in
English within a six-week period of time.
The program will take place in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the
National Hispanic Cultural Center. It is expected that each
participant will complete a script by the end of the six-week
session, which will then be read by a professional team consisting
of studio executives and Latino show runners.  Those scripts that
show promise will be passed on to the corresponding show runners
with the idea that the writer be hired.
A stipend of $200 per week will be given to each participant.
Flight, housing, and meals will be provided.
	 The deadline for submissions is December 1st. Scripts will
be evaluated and program participants announced on December 15th.
The program will commence on January 3rd.
	 Writing samples must be in English.  Television scripts are
preferred and writing teams are ineligible.

Writing samples must be sent to the National Latino Media Council at:

2514 South Grand Avenue,
Los Angeles, CA  90007
nhmc@...

For more information call:  213-746-1158

National Latino Media Council Member Organizations:
Cuban American National Council * Mexican American Grocers
Association  * LULAC * MALDEF * National Association of Latino
Elected Officials * National Association of Hispanic Publications *
National of Latino Independent Producers * National Council of La
Raza * National Hispanic Media Coalition * National Puerto Rican
Coalition * Nosotros * Puerto Rican Legal Defense & Education Fund *
* Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute*
__________________________________________________________
RACE AND CHILDHOOD ANTHOLOGY
Seal Press, Fall 2004
How old were you when you became conscious of the color of your
skin?  What was the first racial epithet you ever heard?  Was your
house vandalized because you were the only different kid in school?
Were you ever made fun on in the girls' bathroom because your name
wasn't easy to pronounce?  When did you first witness racism: a
Swastika spray-painted on your third grade classroom; your Sikh
classmate being called a "girl" because of his long hair; your
parents talking, over the dinner table, about "the people in your
neighborhood"?  What were those childhood experiences that hurt you
or made you think or made you reevaluate your history, the history
of your community, the history of your country?
From the compassionate to the terrifying to the amusing, childhood
experiences of race are formative and lasting.  Unfortunately, these
experiences are not talked about because of pain, fear,
embarrassment, the intense pressure to fit in, or the inability to
discuss race/racism without being "politically correct."  In
addition, women, who are navigating through childhood and
adolescence and dealing with other issues like body image, growing
sexuality, cliques and popularity, often skirt and compartmentalize
issues of race.
Do you want a space to tell your own stories?  Do you want to read
about the experiences of other women and realize you are not the
only one?  Then consider contributing to this thought-provoking
women's anthology that delves deep into race/racism, through the
lens of childhood, in America.  I am looking for honest essays by
women that discuss how the concept of "other" or the concept of
being "other" has defined their childhood, both positively and
negatively.
The tone of this book does not aim to be bitter, but engaging and
moving. I would like to put the diversity of race/racism in America
(rural, urban, black, Asian, Latina, white, multiracial, women who
immigrated in their childhoods, women who were born here) under a
microscope.
I am looking for good storytelling—what I want to capture are
stories of growing up and stories that aren't often told. I am
looking for style as well as substance—there is an infinite number
of ways the writer can explore the personal essay. Push the
parameters of the genre; be unique and daring. I'm looking for a
strong narrative—something learned, something gained, something seen
more clearly.
Hardly an exhaustive list, here are some words to play around with
and get you thinking:
• Exclusion
• Silence
• Double lives (i.e. one life in school/one life at home)
• Reflections of parental prejudice
• Consciousness of race
• Perceptions of other races
• Perceptions of one's own race
• Coping
• Denial
• Understanding
• Compassion
• Race on the playground
• Loss of innocence
Writers may contribute creative nonfiction, personal essays and
memoirs. Women of every race (white, black, Asian, Latina, mixed-
race), class, sexuality, background, and generation are encouraged
to tell their stories. Previously published pieces OK. Simultaneous
submissions OK. (Just make it clear in email or cover letter).
Deadline: December 15, 2003, for fall 2004 publication Length: 1,500
to 6,000 words, negotiable Fee: $100, on publication, plus two
copies of the book
Send completed manuscript in .rtf or .doc format to Pooja Makhijani,
c/o raceandchildhood@..., along with a cover
letter/bio/resume. If you must submit a hard copy, please send to
Pooja Makhijani c/o Leslie Miller at Seal Press, 300 Queen Anne Ave.
N., #375, Seattle, WA, 98109.
About Me: I am a writer living in New Jersey. My bylines have
appeared in The New York Times, The Village Voice, The Newark Star-
Ledger, The Indian Express, Time Out New York, NY ARTS Magazine, and
India Today. This fall my essays will appear in Cicada (Cricket
Group, November-December 2003) and in Women Who Eat: A New
Generation on the Glory of Food (Seal Press, November 2003).
__________________________________________________________
FOUR SHORT FICTION ANTHOLOGIES
Spring `04 Publication

Anthologies will be subject-based:

Tadpoling: The Summer of Demi Moore - women who date or marry
significantly younger men
Cool Stories by Hot Dallas Chicks - short fiction by women, using
Dallas as a backdrop
M.I.L.F.: Debunking the Myth - stories about men who date moms and
moms who date
Wedding Wax - wedding stories of wit, woe, whine, and whimsy.

Early Deadline: November 1, 2003; Drop Dead Date: December 1, 2003.
Please send inquiries/manuscripts to tanya@...
__________________________________________________________
IT'S NEVER TOO LATE—A GUIDED TOUR TO CHANGING YOUR LIFE AFTER 50,
edited by Joan Chatfield-Taylor
Mid-life crisis or mid-life opportunity? It's Never Too Late will be
a collection of essays by people who made profound changes in their
work, personal life, location or lifestyle after the age of fifty.
The book will focus on the kind of transitions that involve risk,
affect relationships with friends and family, and even reshape
personality. For one person the beckoning new life might mean living
off the land in the country, for another the shift from quiet
suburbia to an urban downtown, for yet another, the long-deferred
dream of joining the Peace Corps. Sometimes change is voluntary, but
sometimes it's involuntary, a response to job loss, death of a
spouse, or divorce.
It's Never Too Late will be an anthology of approximately twenty-
five first-person essays by men and women who have cut themselves
loose from their past. Each essay should highlight one or more of
the steps in the process: the assessment of one's past life, the
decision to make a change, the nitty-gritty details of making plans,
the moments of fear, and the new life itself. Please note that the
essay should not be a total accounting of the entire experience,
only a telling look at a crucial moment in the process. The writers
may reveal what worked and what didn't, what surprised them and what
changes they see in themselves. We are interested both in success
stories and in cautionary tales in which loneliness, danger,
financial realities or other unexpected consequences cause the
original plan to fail or change.
Submission information: The manuscript should be between 1000 and
5000 words. Please include your name, address, phone number, e-mail
address and a brief bio or resume. Please mail the completed
manuscript, double-spaced, to Joan Chatfield-Taylor, 2066 Green
Street, San Francisco, CA 94123. Original and previously published
material will be considered, and we look forward to receiving
submissions from both men and women. Contact: For questions or
queries, please e-mail joanct@...
Deadline: December 1, 2003. Payment: $150 plus two copies of the
book. Publication: Fall 2004, trade paperback, Seal Press, an
imprint of Avalon Publishing
__________________________________________________________
ANTHOLOGY OF EROTICA FEATURING HISTORICAL CHARACTERS
Worldwide call for submissions for an anthology of erotica (to be
published by Cleis Press) featuring famous historical characters,
edited by author/anthologist Mitzi Szereto. The focus of this
collection of speculative erotic fiction will be on famous
characters throughout history from ancient times through the 20th
Century. What did Napoleon and Josephine really get up to? Was
Cleopatra as hot as everyone says? What went on backstage with the
Bard and his actors? How much of a sexpot was Mae West? Did Elvis
have much of a pelvis? Okay, you get the picture! You've got
thousands of years to work with, so get cracking!
Specifications:
1. Stories can be of any length, but generally no longer than 6,500
words.
2. A high caliber of writing is expected.
3. Explicitness is fine; crudeness is not.
4. No underage or non-consensual encounters.
5. No hackneyed descriptions or dialogue.
6. Stories may be of any sexual orientation.
7. All stylizations are welcome.
8. Give your story an edge! (To get an idea of what I am looking
for, refer to my other anthologies.)
9. And please, get your historical facts right. Do your RESEARCH!
Previously published material may be considered, providing you have
the rights or can get the rights. Indicate where and when published,
plus rights status. This means FULL DISCLOSURE OF PUBLISHING HISTORY.
Submission requirements: Stories must be submitted in typewritten
hard copy ONLY, double-spaced (with a Windows-compatible file
available on request). Manuscripts not chosen will be discarded, so
do not send your only copy. Include with your submission a brief
author bio and your e-mail address. Please do not submit stories by
e-mail.
Query in the first instance: WordDabbler@.... Submission
deadline: Dec. 1, 2003.
	 Mitzi Szereto is author of Erotic Fairy Tales, A Romp
through the Classics, the novella Highway and editor of the Erotic
Travel Tales anthology series. She is also known as M. S. Valentine,
author of several best-selling erotic novels, including The
Governess.
__________________________________________________________
A CUP OF COMFORT SERIES SEEKING STORIES
A Cup of Comfort is an acclaimed book series compiled and edited by
Colleen Sell and published by Adams Media, an F+W Publications
company. Each volume of A Cup of Comfort is filled to the brim with
inspiring, uplifting true stories about the relationships and
experiences that comfort, inspire, and enrich our lives. These
engaging, slice-of-life stories are written by people from all walks
of life and are carefully selected for publication based on
originality, creativity, and substance. We are actively seeking
submissions for the following anthologies:
A CUP OF COMFORT FOR SPIRITUALITY
Celebrating enlightening, inspiring, miraculous, joyful, and life-
defining, life-changing, or life-enhancing spiritual experiences.
Other possible themes include: gifts of spiritual teachers/mentors;
soul-nurturing spiritual practices, rituals, or relationships;
discovering a spiritual path, a divine truth, or a kindred spirit;
receiving and actualizing (putting into positive action) a spiritual
lesson or epiphany; divine intervention or direction; realizing the
presence of a higher spirit and/or one's own inner spirit. All
benevolent spiritual paths and religions welcome. Submission
Deadline: December 31, 2003. Selection Deadline: February 2004
A CUP OF COMFORT FOR MOTHERS AND SONS
Celebrating the powerful (and sometimes perplexing) bond between
mothers and sons. Possible themes include: positive impact of mother
on son or son on mother; cherished or challenging experiences
shared; connecting or reconnecting with one another; moments of deep
understanding, compassion, pride, or love shared between mother and
son; unique line-enhancing or life-defining aspects of mother-son
relationship. Submission Deadline: January 31, 2004. Selection
Deadline: March 2004

Additional books are planned and will be announced on the Adams
Media website as they are added to the development schedule. NOTE:
Submissions are reviewed and semifinalists selected throughout the
submission period, so early entry is encouraged. Story Length: 1000-
2000 words. Stories must be original, positive, based on real people
and events, and in English. Creative nonfiction, personal narrative,
and short memoir welcome—but must be written as a *story*. No
poetry, journalistic articles, commentaries, profiles, eulogies,
letters, journal entries, diatribes, composition papers, book
chapters, or fiction. Simultaneous and previously published
submissions accepted, with the exception of stories that have been
or will be published in a mass-market anthology. Aspiring and
published writers welcome. Entrants pay NO entry or reading fees.
A grand prize of $500 is awarded to one story for each
contest/anthology. All contributing authors receive a monetary fee
and a complimentary copy of the book in which their story is
published.
For guidelines: E-mail wordsinger@...; or mail an SASE to P.O.
Box 863, Eugene, Oregon 97440, USA; or visit the web site at
http://www.cupofcomfort.com and click on "Share Your Story."
(Please, no phone calls.)
__________________________________________________________
LETTERS ABOUT LITERATURE CONTEST
	 Students in grades 4-12 are invited to enter Letters About
Literature 2004, a national reading and writing promotion program
sponsored by Humanities Tennessee, the Center for the Book in the
Library of Congress, and Target Stores. The contest deadline is
December 6, 2003. The contest invites students to write letters to
authors—living or dead—explaining how their works affected them
personally. The national winners will read their winning letters
during the festival and will tour sites within the nation's capitol.
Plus, each national winner will receive a $500 Target GiftCard. For
detailed information on how to enter, prizes, and to download an
entry coupon, please visit http://www.tn-humanities.org/lalmain.htm
__________________________________________________________
TUPELO PRESS DORSET PRIZE.
Judge, Stephen Dunn.
A prize of $3,000, publication with distribution through Consortium,
participation in the Tupelo Press reading series and a two-week
residency at Dorset Writer's Colony will be awarded for a book-
length collection. The winning author and all entrants will be
notified in January 2004. In addition to the award, the author will
receive a standard royalty book-publishing contract. Submit a
manuscript of 48 to 80 pages with a $25 entry fee by check or money
order payable to Tupelo Press along within SASE for notification of
contest results, and an SASP for notification or receipt of the
manuscript. This competition is open to anyone writing in the
English language, regardless of prior publication history. All
submissions will be considered for publication. Entry must be
postmarked by November 15, 2003.
Send your submission to: Tupelo Press, PO Box 539, Dorset, VT 05251.
For more information and complete guidelines, visit the Web site
www.tupelopress.org.
__________________________________________________________
10TH ANNUAL WHITE PINE PRESS POETRY PRIZE
White Pine Press invites submissions for its 10th annual poetry
prize. Poets may submit manuscripts up to 80 pages in length.
Entries, which must be accompanied by a $20.00 entry fee, are
accepted until November 30, 2003. The award consists of a $1000
prize and publication by the press. Submit manuscripts to: White
Pine Press, PO Box 236, Buffalo, NY 14201. The final judge is a poet
of national stature. For more details see their website at:
http://www.whitepine.org.
White Pine Press has published Nobel Prize laureates William
Golding, Pablo Neruda, Juan Ramon Jimenez, and Gabriela Mistral. Its
distinguished roster also includes Robert Bly, Maurice Kenny,
William Matthews, and James Wright, all winners of the American Book
Award, the National Book Award, or the Pulitzer Prize. White Pine's
commitment to international literature is reflected in its
publication of acclaimed writers including John Montgague of
Ireland, Tomaz Transtromer of Sweden, Antonio Machado of Spain,
Alfonsina Storni of Argentina, and Rolf Jacobsen of Norway.
________________________________________________________________
UNIVERSITY WITHOUT WALLS DIRECTOR
Summary Description
The University Without Walls (UWW) Director is responsible for the
overall daily management of three semesters of classes (Fall, Spring
and Summer) and the Autograph Series.  The Director is accountable
for the overall planning, coordination, implementation and
evaluation of the Center's university- and master-level classes and
monthly readings, as well as its twice yearly distinguished author
events.  This position is responsible for ensuring that program
policies and budgets approved by the Board and Executive Director
are implemented.  Position is 32 hours/week, plus additional hours
as required.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
1. Hire faculty and work with them to create coherent semesters
of classes that are appropriate in level, format and subject matter
2. Recruit potential faculty in consultation with the Executive
Director
3. Be responsive to the diverse needs of a wide-ranging
constituency (writers, readers, teachers, children, those interested
in other art disciplines, those interested in the humanities,
readers and writers of Spanish, etc.)
4. Schedule classes and facilities
5. Obtain signed contracts from faculty and arrange for
necessary travel and lodging
6. Prepare copy for course catalogue; coordinate printing and
mailing
7. Design and manage program budget, with help of financial
officer and Executive Director
8. Keep accurate budget records of financial obligations,
contributions, and spending history
9. Facilitate effective evaluation process
10. Identify potential funders to underwrite Autograph Series,
Summer Festival and other UWW projects as needed
11. Work closely with Development Director to locate and report
on funding, often assisting in preparation of grant applications for
UWW
12. Work closely with Writers in Community Director to
facilitate collaboration between WIC and UWW
13. Research opportunities for collaboration with other arts
organizations
14. Oversee and host reading series
15. Work closely with Public Relations Director to coordinate
program advertising and publicity
16. Maintain Gemini Ink web site (includes all Gemini Ink
offerings, not only UWW)
17. Recruit and supervise interns for UWW and help identify
interns for other programs
18. Help recruit and supervise volunteers for the organization
as a whole
19. Represent Gemini Ink to community groups and potential
funders
Compensation: $22,500/year, healthcare benefits, and University
Without Walls tuition benefits. To apply: Please send résumé and
cover letter by November 14, 2003 to Rosemary Catacalos, Executive
Director, Gemini Ink, 513 S. Presa, San Antonio, TX, or e-mail
attachments in MS Word format to rosec@... .
________________________________________________________________
FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY FOR ACTIVISTS OF COLOR
The Alston/Bannerman Fellowship Program is committed to advancing
progressive social change by helping to sustain long-time activists
of color. The program honors those who have devoted their lives to
helping their communities organize for racial, social, economic and
environmental justice. The program provides resources for organizers
to take sabbaticals for reflection and renewal. Each year 10 long
term activists of color are awarded $15,000 each to take sabbaticals
of three months or more. This is a both a reward and an opportunity
for rest and reflection for dedicated people who have been busting
their butts working on tough issues for years. Recipients are not
required to produce anything during their sabbatical period and can
use the time however they choose. This year's application deadline
is December 1. More information is available at
http://www.alstonbannerman.org/.
________________________________________________________________
ROCKEFELLER FOUNDATION FELLOWSHIPS
Deadline: Various
In 2004-2005, Rockefeller Resident Fellowships in the Humanities
will be offered at twenty-one host institutions selected for their
potential to promote new work in the humanities. Host institutions,
which include academic departments, interdisciplinary programs,
museums, research libraries, and community cultural centers,
encourage interaction between the visiting fellows and their own
scholarly communities, and make libraries, special collections, and
other facilities/resources available in specialized areas of
research. The fellowships are meant to serve scholars who are
testing disciplinary boundaries or moving into newer fields of
inquiry within the humanities. Although the majority of the fellow's
time will be spent pursuing his/her own research toward publication,
the residency may involve participation in seminars, conferences, or
other collaborative activities within the host program. Awards may
not be used for the completion of graduate studies, for advanced
training, or for writing poetry or fiction. Eligibility
requirements, stipends, application procedures, and deadlines are
available directly from the host institution. See the Rockefeller
Foundation (http://www.rockfound.org/) Web site for a list of host
institutions and contact information.
________________________________________________________________
COORDINATOR, RED HOOK EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY (PART-TIME)
DATES: December 1, 2003 - August 20, 2004
SALARY: $17,500 with full benefits/part-time for nine-month period.
HOURS: Varies; after-school and evening hours
City Parks Foundation (CPF) is the only independent, non-profit
organization to offer park programs throughout the five boroughs of
New York City, serving more than 600,000 New Yorkers each year. By
presenting a broad range of free arts, sports and education programs
in more than 250 parks citywide, and by helping citizens support
their local parks, CPF contributes to the revitalization of
neighborhoods throughout New York City.  The Education Department,
founded in 1993, presents a wide range of programs targeted to
children, youth, and educators in a variety of settings, including
parks, recreation centers, public schools, and other community
organizations.  The position will report to the Director of
Education.
RESPONSIBILITIES: The Red Hook Education & Technology Initiative is
a new program that will combine homework and academic assistance
with digital filmmaking and computer classes to middle and high
school students within the Red Hook Recreation Center. As additional
funding becomes available, program elements will be added to produce
an array of services. The initiative is part of a larger effort to
revitalize the Red Hook community via park and Recreation Center
programming. Plan, implement and monitor program activities designed
to develop academic skills, promote healthy behaviors, inspire and
expose students to diverse life opportunities. This will include
project-based learning, local fieldtrips and family activities.
Design and implement homework and academic assistance program and
workshops for children, youth, and educators. Supervise part-time
teaching staff, interns, and volunteers. Provide academic assistance
and teach classes as needed to support overall program.  Develop
hands-on, interdisciplinary lessons that hone academic skills,
encourage curiosity, and use the community and outdoor space as a
learning laboratory.  Conduct outreach to schools, organizations,
community groups, churches and within the Red Hook houses to recruit
participants and ensure adequate enrollment.  Track and evaluate
participants' academic progress, program impact and outcomes.
Maintain accurate and thorough program records. Prepare monthly
reports for Director of Education and annual program report.
Purchase materials and monitor expenses in accordance with program
budget. Serve as liaison to Recreation center staff, CPF staff
working on other aspects of the project, and community agencies
ensure that initiative is fully and seamlessly integrated with other
recreation center programs; create effective mechanisms for
communicating with parent and partner agencies.
QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's Degree in Education or related field.
Graduate students are welcome. Experience teaching in an informal
setting using interactive and experiential learning methods. The
ideal candidate will have multi-faceted skills, including a strong
academic background. As this program incorporates technology and
filmmaking, we will strongly consider individuals that can teach
computer (software) or filmmaking. Substantial experience working
in, and conducting outreach for, community-based programs that serve
diverse, low-income communities. Excellent written and verbal
communications skills. Ability to work with diverse students and low-
income communities. Ability to work independently and as part of a
team essential. Versatility, resourcefulness and creativity
required. Familiarity and experience working in Red Hook and/or
South Brooklyn preferred.
Interested candidates should mail cover letter and resume to:
Education Search
City Parks Foundation
1234 Fifth Avenue, Room 232
New York, NY 10029.
Or email cover letter/resume to: info@...
No calls or faxes, please.
________________________________________________________________
NEWS EDITOR, TELEMUNDO LOCAL NEWS WEB SITE
Accountable to Managing Editor
JOB SUMMARY: This position gathers and compiles news from a variety
of Spanish and English language outlets, including our Telemundo
television news partners, the Internet and wire services and
publishes the news and feature stories in newspaper quality Spanish
on the Web site.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
   Writes and edits materials for target audiences integrating
compelling and creative text, still images, audio- and video-file
components, and links to relevant Internet resources into an
appealing and thoughtful online news package.
   Being bilingual in English and Spanish; adept at real time
translation from English to Spanish and able to write literate,
newspaper quality news stories.
   Work with the Web site manager and station personnel creates as an
integral team member.
   Possesses online acumen to provide added value to reports
initially developed by broadcast reporters
   Ensures accuracy of stories by double checking copy
   Ensures that all edited text goes through any necessary reviews
   Provides editing support to other teams as needed
COMPETENCIES (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES) REQUIRED
   Ability to work in a team setting, with broadcast partners, and
under tight deadlines is key
   Ability to translate between English and Spanish, and write
Spanish language news stories
   Knowledge of the local Hispanic community and its interests
   Ability to deliver integrated compelling news stories quickly and
accurately, using sound news judgment
   Ability to prioritize, work independently, and manage simultaneous
assignments within an intense deadline-driven environment
   Knowledge of editing and AP stylebook standards
   Ability to pass editors test
   Ability to convey complex subject matter clearly and engagingly
   Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
   Ability to be flexible in schedule and adaptable to constant
change.
   Ability to effectively handle multiple tasks and frequent
interruptions.
   Ability to work with a positive attitude
   Ability to work well in a multitasking environment paying close
attention to details
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
   Four-year college degree; communications, journalism preferred
   Established journalistic track record
   Familiarity with word processing software; Word preferred
   Familiarity with Microsoft Outlook email software
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
   Familiarity with AP style preferred
   Working experience with a TV station.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
   Requires use of office equipment, such as computer terminals,
facsimile machines, telephones and copiers.
   Requires sitting and computer-related activities for extended
periods of time.
   Requires ability to read type sizes as small as 6 point on films,
color copies, or other types of hard copy
TRAINING
   Intensive training program on propriety corporate software, which
is used for all story administration, online surveys, facilitation
of online discussion groups and site email administration.
Contact: Bpearlman@...
________________________________________________________________

Share a writing opportunity via marcelalandres@...
Find past writing opportunities
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
If you wish to reprint portions of this newsletter, please credit
Latinidad and include a link to http://www.marcelalandres.com/. Past
newsletters are archived at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

"The reasonable man adapts himself to the world;
the unreasonable one persists to adapt the world to himself.
  Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man."
—George Bernard Shaw

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Please forward to friends and colleagues.

Latinidad Newsletter – October 2003

You are receiving this newsletter because you have expressed an
interest in Marcela Landres and her work. If this newsletter has
been forwarded to you and you wish to receive it directly, please
visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm. Past newsletters are
archived at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

CONTENTS:
1. Saludos
2. FAQ
3. Success Stories
4. Recommendations
5. News to Use
6. Upcoming Workshops
7. Author Spotlight
8. Writing Opportunities

1. Saludos
Hispanic Heritage Month is the time of year when Latino culture and
accomplishments are in the spotlight. As such, it's the perfect time
to introduce a new section of this newsletter: the Author Spotlight,
in which I feature a writer whose work celebrates Latinos. I hope
you enjoy the Author Spotlight, and I welcome you to e-mail me at
marcelalandres@... with suggestions of writers to spotlight in
the future. As we celebrate Latino writers during Hispanic Heritage
Month, keep in mind that the best way to support them is to read and
recommend their books all year round.

2. FAQ
Q: I've submitted my work to countless agents, only to receive
countless rejections. What am I doing wrong? What is the right way
to find an agent?

A:  Finding an agent can seem like a daunting task. Demystify the
process by using my top three tips below.
1. Make new friends – Most unpublished writers make the mistake of
hanging out with other unpublished writers. While you should cherish
your old friends, they are not in the best position to help you with
your writing career. Instead, create and nurture relationships with
happily published authors, because they have established
relationships with editors and agents. If you can impress these
writers with your work and persuade them to act as your mentors,
they may introduce you to their agents. Agents naturally respond
more readily to proposals submitted by writers referred to them by
people they know.
	 The best way to connect with published authors is to enroll
in writing classes, which are customarily taught by published
authors, especially at the more prestigious programs.
2. Bigger is not better – Many big, well-known agents are not
proactively seeking new writers. A successful agent, by definition,
has established a stable of clients who bring in a substantial,
reliable income. As a result, they can be very selective when taking
on new, unknown writers. Agents who represent bestselling mystery
writers, for instance, are in a position to attract other
bestselling mystery writers as clients, which is arguably a safer
investment of their time and energy than taking on unknown mystery
writers who may or may not ever reach bestsellerdom.
Include high profile agents in your submission mailings, as there's
always the possibility one will fall madly in love with your work.
But focus your efforts on less established, up-and-coming agents. A
hungry agent has a greater incentive to not only take you on, but to
work harder for you.
3. Be picky – Not every agent is right for you. Agents, like
editors, doctors, and lawyers, have specialties. One agent can
represent mainly psychology authors, while another can represent
mostly science-fiction writers. If you write cookbooks, neither of
these agents is necessarily a good fit for you. While agents
generally handle more than one category, it is unlikely that an
agent can represent all categories with the same level of expertise.
As such, it is to your advantage to submit your work to agents who
have experience representing writers whose work is similar to yours.
Two tools for determining what kind of authors agents have
represented in the past are: Publishers Weekly's web site
(http://publishersweekly.reviewsnews.com/index.asp?
publication=publishersweekly) and agent web sites. Agents usually
list authors they've represented on their web sites. If an agent
doesn't have a web site, seek information about him/her via a search
engine like http://www.google.com/.
Search Publishers Weekly's web site for articles about the category
in which you write. For instance, if you write romance novels, use
key words such as "romance author", "romance writer", and "women's
fiction". (Note that searching for the term "romance" alone calls up
too many articles that aren't directly related to romance.)
Invariably, the agents and editors who work with romance writers
will be mentioned.
As editors are interviewed more often than agents for these
articles, take the extra step of researching the editors with the
aim of determining which agents they work with. In particular, focus
on articles from the Hot Deals column
(http://publishersweekly.reviewsnews.com/index.asp?
layout=community&verticalid=127&industry=Hot+Deals&industryid=2977),
which covers noteworthy book deals, and includes the names of the
agents who brokered these deals.

Ask a question via marcelalandres@....
Find more FAQ http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

3. Success Stories
Many of the Latino authors I meet are multitalented artists who, in
addition to being writers, are also painters, dancers, singers,
comics, actors, photographers, etc. Some of these artists worry that
if they focus on their other creative endeavors they may impede
their writing careers. Not so. Actively and strategically raising
your profile in one arena can help raise your profile in the
literary arena. This is especially the case if your writing involves
your other areas of expertise. For instance, if you are a visual
artist, your connections in the art world may help you garner quotes
from artists, or attract attention from the media when you promote
your book, or your facility with color and shape may enrich the
language and landscape of your writing. One artist who is building
an impressive platform that will likely benefit her writing career
is poet and painter Pamela Carvajal Drapala. Congratulations to Pam
on having her artwork accepted at a gallery in New York City!

"I'm a subscriber of your e-mail newsletter and thank you for being
an outstanding role model and promoter of individuals who wish to
get their work recognized. Marcela, you are leading the way for
people like me, and I thank you for your words of encouragement that
I've received through your e-mails. I believe that because of
individuals like you I've continued to strive for my dreams.
Yesterday, one of my dreams came true.

I am a Hispanic painter and poet, and my artwork was accepted at the
Agora Gallery in New York City. Here's a comment that I received
from the Director at the Agora Gallery at Soho:

`The figurative oil on canvas paintings exhibit tonal charm of
composition, content and verve. Each image reverberates with
brilliant color eliciting a visceral response. This response is
primal and consistent throughout the body of work.'

Again, thank you for being there for people like myself. We
appreciate you.

With respects,
Pam"

See examples of Pam's art
http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Tower/9556/Pamelaart.html
Share a success story via marcelalandres@...
Find more success stories http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

4. Recommendations
Literaryagents.org is an invaluable web site created by author Todd
James Pierce which is crammed with intelligent and useful advice on
how writers can find the right literary agent. Among other things,
Pierce shares hard-to-find mailing addresses for top agents, a list
of agents who represent bestselling or acclaimed authors, and
contact info for agents actively looking for writers (which, as
you've read in the FAQ section above, is not so common). I'm most
impressed by this site, and I include it in the handouts I
distribute at my workshops, and on the Resources section of my web
site http://www.marcelalandres.com/id40.htm. I highly recommend you
visit and bookmark this web site, and sign up for Pierce's free
Literary Agents Newsletter.

Visit literaryagents.org
Visit Todd James Pierce's home page
Offer a recommendation via marcelalandres@...
Find more recommendations http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

5. News to Use
While most agents are legitimate, there are admittedly a few alleged
agencies that do not meet the professional standards set by the AAR
(Association of Authors' Representatives). For instance, reputable
agents do not charge writers for reading their proposals. Below is a
link to an article which uncovers some of these disreputable
practices, as well as a link to the AAR's Canon of Ethics, which
outlines the standards of conduct for literary agents. Read them and
arm yourself against false agents.

Washington Post article "Publishing Schemes Prove to be Pure
Fiction" http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
srv/style/features/daily/scam092899.htm
AAR's Canon of Ethics http://www.aar-online.org/canon.html
Find more news to use http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

6. Upcoming Workshops
On October 23 – 24, I will participate in an "Editors Speak" panel
regarding Spanish language publishing in the U.S., as well as
present my "What Latino Writers Need to Know About Getting
Published" workshop.

Location: 2nd Annual Latino Artist Round Table (LART) Conference,
The King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, New York University, 53
Washington Square South, New York, NY 10012
Panel: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, October 23, Auditorium, 1st floor
Workshop: 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 24, Rm. 404, 4th floor
To Register: Visit LART's web site http://www.lartny.org/.
Registration is strongly recommended for workshops and evening
events. A complete program for the conference is also available
online.

Request a workshop http://www.marcelalandres.com/id49.htm
Find a list of upcoming workshops
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

7. Author Spotlight
Psychologist, activist, and author Ana Nogales's latest book Latina
Power: Using 7 Strengths You Already Have to Create the Success You
Deserve pubs this month in both English and Spanish editions. I've
edited many books in my career, and Latina Power is the book of
which I'm most proud. Representations of Latinas, whether in film,
television, journalism, art, or books, often seem to focus on the
negative aspects of our experience. Latina Power is groundbreaking
in that it instead highlights the inherently positive attributes.
Nogales and co-writer Laura Golden Bellotti do an excellent job of
shattering, instead of perpetuating, stereotypes.
	 I welcome you to support Latina Power and thereby show the
publishing industry that Latinas seek books which inspire rather
than typecast us. Here is a list of upcoming book signings:
Books & Books, 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134
Wednesday, October 22, 2003 at 8:00PM

Borders Carolina, Plaza Escorial, 65th Infantry and Esq. Carr. #8,
Carolina, PR
Thursday, October 23, 2003 at 7:00PM

Borders Plaza Las Americas, 1st Level, 525 F.F. Roosevelt Avenue,
Hato Rey, PR 00918
Friday, October 24, 2003 at 7:00PM

ALA, Sheraton Hotel 601 W. McKinley Ave. Pomona, Ca 91768
Saturday, October 25, 2003 at 7:00PM

Tia Chucha, 12737 Glenoaks Blvd., #22 Sylmar, CA 91342
Tuesday, October 28, 2003 at 7:00PM

Martinez Books, Plaza de Mexico, 3100 E. Imperial Highway, Lynwood,
Ca 90262
Thursday, October 30, 2003 at 7PM

La Casa Del Libro, 921 South First Street San Francisco, CA 95110
Saturday, November 8, 2003 at 12:00PM

Biblioteca Latinoamericana Branch Library, 973 Valencia Street, San
Jose, CA
Saturday, November 8, 2003 at 3:00PM

Look out for Ana the week of 10/6 in Tucson, and she'll soon visit
Houston, Dallas, Chicago, San Antonio, New York, Washington DC, and
southern California. Visit Ana Nogales's web site for updates
http://www.drnogales.com/english/main.htm

Obtain the English edition of Latina Power by clicking here.
Obtain the Spanish edition of Latina Power by clicking here
Suggest an author to spotlight via marcelalandres@...

8. Writing Opportunities
_______________________________________________________________
SEEKING YOUNG ADULT NOVELIST
Razorbill Books is seeking a commercially minded author to write a
comical yet poignant coming of age story for teens. Main character
would be Latina--though story should appeal to a broad range of
teens from other ethnicities (in much the same way that My Big Fat
Greek Wedding appeals to people of all ethnicities). Narrative
struggle would center on main character's attempt to reconcile her
Hispanic heritage with the ways of the modern world.
	 Razorbill is a new imprint at Penguin Group (USA) dedicated
to publishing into the explosively growing category of teen books.
Unique amongst the distinguished imprints at Penguin Group,
Razorbill will strive to serve a constituency neither child nor
adult, a constituency too often saddled with the outdated
descriptor "young adult."
	 The imprint will publish between 30 and 40 new titles a
year, the majority of them contemporary commercial fiction. The
formats will range from paperback to hardcover, with an emphasis on
alternative formats like the 5 x 7 "MTVBooks" paperback trim and
paper-over-board hardcover. Hardcovers and trade paperbacks will
appear in mass-market formats 12 to 18 months after initial
publication.
	 Please submit concepts and writing samples to:

Senior Editor
Razorbill Books
Penguin Young Reader's Group
345 Hudson Street, 15th Floor
New York, New York 10014
__________________________________________________________
SMOKING LOVELY BOOK LAUNCH PARTY
Monday, October 13 at 7:00 pm. 13 Bar/Lounge, 35 E. 13th St., Union
Square, NYC. Co-sponsored by LouderARTS.com. FREE. Willie Perdomo
will read with guests John Rodriguez, Rich Villar, Jai Kumar and
Jayme del Rosario and DJ Center from the OPEN THOUGHT CREW will be
on the one and twos.
http://www.rattapallax.com/perdomo.htm
_______________________________________________________________
$25,000 JOHN T. LUPTON "NEW VOICES IN LITERATURE" AWARDS
Mission: Encourage writers to complete professionally written Query
Letters and Book Proposals for submission to literary agents and
publishers to maximize their opportunity to become published authors
through traditional means. Sponsored by the Books For Life
Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping
aspiring authors and poets help themselves. The awards are named in
honor of John T. Lupton, founding benefactor of Books For Life
Foundation.
	 For more info and guidelines visit
http://www.booksforlifefoundation.com/php/luptonawards.php
_________________________________________________________________
MISSOURI REVIEW EDITORS' PRIZE IN FICTION AND ESSAY AND LARRY LEVIS
EDITORS' PRIZE IN POETRY
$2000 Fiction, $2000 Essay, $2000 Poetry
The Missouri Review, founded in 1978, is one of the most highly-
regarded literary magazines in the United States and for the past
twenty-five years we've upheld a reputation for finding and
publishing the very best writers first. Each issue contains new
fiction, poetry and essays. We also run interviews with famous
authors and found-text features where we print never before
published works such as a short story by William Faulkner or one of
Tennessee William's plays.
	 Page restrictions: 25 typed, doubled-spaced, for fiction and
essay.
Poetry entries can include any number of poems up to 10 pgs. Each
story, essay, or group of poems constitutes one entry.
	 Entry fee: $15 for each entry (checks payable to Missouri
Review) Each fee entitles entrant to a one-year subscription.
	 For additional guidelines and online entry submissions:
http://www.missourireview.com/info/contestguidelines.php

Entry submissions by mail:
Missouri Review Editors' Prize
1507 Hillcrest Hall
UMC
Columbia, MO 65211

Deadline: 10/15/03 postmark
_____________________________________________________________________
__
MELVILLE NOVELLA CONTEST
$1000 First Prize and possible publication
Final Judges: M. Mark, Barbara Chepaitis, Jedediah Berry
DEADLINE: Postmarked by October 30, 2003
Entry Fee: $20
GUIDELINES: We only accept submissions from authors who have not yet
had a book-length publication. Submissions must be previously
unpublished novellas 50-125 pages in length, typed and double-spaced
with one-inch margins. Each page must have the title of the novella
in the upper right-hand corner along with the page number.
Submissions must have two title pages, one with the title, author's
name and contact information and another with only the title of the
novella. All genres are accepted. Submissions must be accompanied by
a check for $20 payable to the Inconundrum Press, a postcard with
entrant's return address that will be used for confirmation of
entry, and a self-addressed stamped envelope for notification of
results. Authors retain all rights.

Novellas should be sent to:
INCONUNDRUM PRESS
92 WILLETT STREET, SUITE 2C
ALBANY, NY 12210

JUDGES: M. Mark founded the Village Voice Literary Supplement in
1981. During the groundbreaking thirteen years she served as VLS
Editor, she strove to locate the cutting edge, rethink the canon,
and promote unknown but talented writers. She has advanced the
careers of countless authors, including Kathy Acker, Lynne Tillman,
Jane Mendelsohn and Colson Whitehead. After VLS, she founded PEN
America: A Journal for Writers and Readers, which continues to
cultivate the idea of intelligent discussions of literature for a
reading public. Barbara Chepaitis has written numerous novels,
stories and screenplays. Endlessly versatile, she has published work
ranging from post-apocalyptic science fiction to contemporary family
dramas. Throughout her work she continues to examine the genuinely
human elements of life through strong female characters. Her novels
include the critically acclaimed Fear series, Feeding Christine,
These Dreams, and the recently released Something Unpredictable.
Jedediah Berry is the Managing Editor of jubilat, the noted poetry
and prose journal housed at the University of Massachusetts,
Amherst. He also serves as an Associate Editor for the literary
journal / anthology series, Conjunctions. A founding editor of PEN
America, he has edited the work of Umberto Eco, Joyce Carol Oates,
Salman Rushdie, Susan Sontag, among others.
_____________________________________________________________________
__
SEEK LATINO AUTHORS TO INTERVIEW
Hola, I am the Book Editor for the Arizona Hispanic, a new thought
provoking newspaper in Phoenix, AZ, aimed at the educated middle
class Latina/os. I would like to contact as many Latina/o authors as
possible. Please share this message and contact information with
Latina/o authors who may wish to be interviewed. I've included the
list of questions below the signature that I will ask the authors.
I've included my snail address for any brochures, books or catalogs
anyone can send me. Also I would like to be kept up to date on all
new books, fiction and non fiction, currently being published by
Latina/os. If you have a name of an author or a book that you want
me to review or profile, please contact me or pass this information
along. I want to be alerted to any new book by a U.S. Latina/o or
give me the information on how I can find out about new books being
published.
Thank you for any assistance you can give me on this project.
Keep the ink flowing,
Jo Ann Yolanda Hernandez
9919 E Main Street Suite N
Mesa AZ 85207
Ph: 480.358.1264
Cell: 480.650.2838
President, BronzeWord
Book Editor, Arizona Hispanic
Author, "White Bread Competition"

1) Where were you born?
2) A little bit background on your parents: where born, occupation,
influence on you
3) What elementary and high school did you go to?
4) Any event impress you most in school? What was it?
5) Did you go to college? Where? How was it?
6) Why did you start writing? How did you get into writing?
7) What is your latest book or play? any cover art?
8) What is in your future?
9) What is your advice to new and emerging writers?
10) What is your pearl of wisdom you have learned in life?
____________________________________________________________
THE ENCYCLOPEDIA LATINA: HISTORY, CULTURE, SOCIETY will be a
multidisciplinary, one-million word set on Latinos in America,
covering history, literature, art, popular and folk cultures,
science, politics, religion, business, demographics and law. This
Encyclopedia brings together the work of many scholars in a
reference work designed both to introduce the field to non-
specialists and to indicate the state of current scholarship to the
following groups: upper high school and undergraduate students;
librarians; academics; and the general public.
Each of the approximately 700 entries will be thorough, informative
and objective. There are four length categories: 500 word; 1000
word; 2000 word; and 4,000 word. All entries will be signed and will
include bibliographies and cross-references. Some illustrations will
be used, as well as reproductions of primary source material in
appendices.
Currently we are inviting authors for a range of subjects. If you
are interested in participating, please contact me at the email
address below with a brief writing sample (does not have to be
published).
Jennifer Acker
Project Manager
encyclopedialatina@...
_____________________________________________________________________
__
RESIDENCY OPPORTUNITY FOR ARTISTS & WRITERS
In an extraordinary natural setting, Caldera offers residencies of
up to five weeks to artists and writers during the fall, winter and
spring. Artists and writers accepted for residency are given a
private cottage and the time to concentrate on their art. People who
stay more than 14 days are strongly encouraged to give an informal
presentation about their work during or after their residency. For
more information please contact: Miriam Feuerle, Caldera, 224 NW
13th Av, Portland OR 97209 OR 503-937-7563 or
http://www.calderaarts.org or miriam.feuerle@...
Deadline for spring 2004 residency: November 1, 2003
_____________________________________________________________________
__
CASTING CALL FOR LATINO ACTORS
Champawat Pictures is looking to cast an unknown in the lead role of
Willy Diaz, an undercover NYC cop, in the upcoming film The Mercy
Man based on the comic book series. For information on how to
audition, visit http://www.mercyman.com.
_____________________________________________________________________
__
P/T POSITIONS AS ADJUNCT FACULTY teaching courses in the following
areas - Economics, Geography, Systems of Society, and American
Literature available. Also full-time positions as Educational
Facilitators are available. If you know of professionals interested
in the above, please have them contact me directly, or Mr. Jose
Hernandez, Associate Dean, at the following address: Boricua
College, 3755 Broadway, NYC 10032 (corner of 155th St & Bway);
212/694-1000, ext. 622 or my extension, 625. Thank you for your
referrals or recommendations.
Best, Jose Angel Figueroa, Educational Facilitator
_____________________________________________________________________
__
LATINO MANAGEMENT TRAINING SERIES PRESENTED BY AHA
AHA will select twenty Latino arts organizations to participate in
LMTS, a program designed to build and increase organizational
capacity and strengthen infrastructure by providing "hard core"
management skills and systems necessary to survive in an
increasingly competitive arts field. Training in the following
categories will be offered: Strategic Business Planning, Financial
Management, Resource Development and Marketing. Funding for LMTS has
been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York
State Council on the Arts, Special Arts Services Program and The New
York City Department of Cultural Affairs.

Applicants must be:
- an arts organization with an organizational budget of $50,000+;
- based in the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut);
- a 501c3 / not-for-profit organization;
- established for a minimum of three years;
- at least one paid staff member.

Applications will be distributed early October. For an application
please contact Rebeca Ramirez at rebecaramirez@...
Application Deadline: TBD
_____________________________________________________________________
__
SEEKING AFRICAN-AMERICAN WRITERS FOR VIDEO
I am researching African -American writers with fun writing jobs who
we can profile for an educational video. We're working on a series
of two minute educational video segments that will be used by
elementary students in American schools worldwide. In the interest
of diversity and to present a good role model, we are specifically
looking for African-American writers who would make a fun story for
the students. Ideally, someone who writes about travel, food, or the
arts would be great. This could make for a colorful, lively segment
about a fun writing job. This writer could also be a television,
news or film writer (as long as we could use clips of their work in
the educational video). Would anyone on the list meet the above
description--and be interested? Could anyone suggest a writer who
would fit the above description? I'll be happy to provide more
details about our project. Thank you very much. Please email me
directly at: debmcclutchy@...
_____________________________________________________________________
__

Share a writing opportunity via marcelalandres@...
Find past writing opportunities
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/
Please share this newsletter with interested friends and colleagues.

"It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan."—Eleanor
Roosevelt

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Latinidad Newsletter – August/September 2003

You are receiving this newsletter because you have expressed an
interest in Marcela Landres and her work. If this newsletter has
been forwarded to you and you wish to receive it directly, please
visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm. Past newsletters are
archived at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

CONTENTS:
1. Saludos
2. FAQ
3. Success Stories
4. Recommendations
5. News to Use
6. Upcoming Workshops
7. Writing Opportunities

1. Saludos
Muchisimas gracias for the outpouring of good wishes I received from
so many of you in response to July's inaugural issue of the
Latinidad Newsletter, as well as in response to my departure from
Simon & Schuster. Many of you have asked what my plans are—rest
assured, I will continue, through my workshops, web site, and this
newsletter, to forge ahead with my mission to help talented Latino
writers launch writing careers. I welcome you to join me in my
mission by sharing the information I offer with interested friends
and colleagues.

2. FAQ
Q: I know Latino writers are hot right now, but I want to be judged
on my talent, not because I'm Latino. Do I have to identify myself
as a Latino when I submit my proposal?

A: Many people want to believe that writing talent is the only thing
agents and editors seek in a writer. This is not the case. If it
were, then the only component necessary to a proposal would be a
writing sample. The reality, as you can see from the submission
guidelines on my web site http://www.marcelalandres.com/id20.htm, is
that a complete, professional proposal is composed of many parts.
The purpose of a proposal is not to convey the talent of a writer,
but rather to persuade agents and editors that a writer has a
platform from which to launch a writing career.
	 A platform can consist of many things. For instance, authors
of self-help books can have a high profile on the speaking circuit,
a newspaper or magazine column, and a psychology or counseling
background. For fiction, authors can have an MFA from a highly
regarded program, a well-connected mentor, and literary awards. If
there are two proposals on the same subject that are equally well-
written, the one with a weaker platform is more likely to end up in
the rejection pile.
	 Your proposal is competing against countless others. I have
rejected more proposals in a week than I've published in a year.
Large publishing companies receive hundreds of submissions a day.
Agents and editors wade through piles of submissions seeking
proposals that will offer the greatest return on their investment of
time and energy. But on your side is the growing interest in Latino
authors. Latino writers who are savvy enough to clearly identify
themselves as such will get—and the ones with talent and a platform
will keep—the attention of agents and editors. Latino writers who
don't identify themselves as such risk getting lost in the
bottomless submission pile. Being Latino is not a platform in and of
itself, but it is a hook that may keep you away from the rejection
pile long enough to have someone fall in love with your talent—and
your platform.

For more FAQ visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm

3. Success Stories
Below is an example of one writer, Laurie, who used the advice I
shared with her to start laying the groundwork from which to launch
a great writing career. As I mention above, talent alone is not
enough—writers need a platform. For fiction writers a platform could
include having short pieces published in
magazines/journals/anthologies, as well as garnering awards and
recognition from the literary community. Congratulations to Laurie,
on being published in the anthology, winning the award, and being
chosen for the mentorship program—all things that will make her
proposal stand out amidst the scores of submissions editors and
agents receive.

"I read your email a while back about you leaving your job. I have
to admit my first thought was what happens to my book now? I'm not
sure if you even remember me; we met 2 Julys ago at Gemini Ink here
in San Antonio. I've been working a lot on my novel, but it's much
harder than I first thought it might be. I have however taken your
advice about doing everything I can with my poetry in the meantime:
Last October I had some work published in an Anthology and in March
I won a monetary award from the National Society of Arts and Letters
for a small collection of poetry. I just found out that I was hand
picked by Barbara Ras to study with her in a mentorship program
through Gemini Ink—and they're going to pay for it.

So, thank you, Marcela Landres. You have been a large voice in my
life. Because of you I feel like a real writer.
Laurie Guerrero-Garces"

For more success stories visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id57.htm

4. Recommendations
VONA (The Voices of Our Nation Arts Foundation) is a non-profit
organization associated with the University of San Francisco's
School of Education that is dedicated to nurturing developing
writers through the traditions, perspectives, and aesthetics of
writers of color. VONA was founded by Junot Diaz (author of Drown),
Elmaz Abinader (author of Children of the Roojme and In the Country
of My Dreams) and Executive Director Diem Jones. I've heard nothing
but raves from both writers and speakers who have participated in
their Summer Writing Workshops. The impressive faculty has included
such acclaimed writers as Terry McMillan, Martin Espada, and Willie
Perdomo.
I highly recommend their Summer Writing Workshops. This year's
workshops are already closed, but bookmark their web site and visit
regularly to find out how to register for next year's session, as
well as to find more information about VONA http://www.vona-
voices.org/

For more recommendations visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id25.htm

5. News to Use
Last year I attended a writing conference in a region of the U.S.
that has a large population of Latinos. As such, I expected to meet
a significant number of Latino writers. Over 200 writers attended—
but only about six were Latino. To my dismay, numerous non-Latino
writers approached me and said "I'm not Latino, but I have lots of
Latino friends who would love to submit their work to you. Can
they?" To which I responded "Why aren't they here?"
	 The writing life is a solitary one, but Latino writers seem
more removed from the writing community than other writers. This
needs to change, because writers who are part of the writing
community are more likely to be happily published than those who are
isolated. One effective way to become connected is to attend writing
conferences, which offer the opportunity to create and maintain
relationships with agents, editors, and other writers. Over the
years I've met numerous writers at conferences who stay in touch
with me, and I naturally pay more attention to their submissions
than to submissions by writers I've never met. At one conference
alone I met two writers who I signed up—one for a six figure deal.
Writing conferences are more about cultivating your rolodex instead
of honing your craft. Consider the cost of attending a conference,
like the cost of a good computer and printer, as an investment in
your writing career. Below is an article that offers excellent
guidance on how to choose the right conference for your needs. To
help you get started, look up some of the conferences I've attended
on the left hand side of this page on my web site:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id44.htm.

Writermag.com article "Writing Conferences: How Do You Choose the
Best One for You?"
http://www.writermag.com/WRT/default.aspx?c=a&id=1114

For more News to Use visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm

6. Upcoming Workshops
I will participate in a panel regarding Spanish language publishing
in the U.S., as well as present my "What Latino Writers Need to Know
About Getting Published" workshop.

Location: 2nd Annual Latino Artist Round Table Congress, The King
Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, New York University, 53 Washington
Square South, New York, NY 10012
Panel: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, October 23, Auditorium, 1st floor
Workshop: 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 24, Rm. 404, 4th floor
To Register: tk

For a list of upcoming workshops visit
http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm

7. Writing Opportunities
______________________________________________________________
SEEKING SCRIPTS
The Jim Preminger Literary Agency is looking for television series
(comedy or drama) and feature writers for representation. Please fax
your credits to Hilary Stern at 310-860-1117. You must have at least
one completed spec television episode or spec feature screenplay to
be considered. Please do not send unrequested material.
______________________________________________________________
MARKETING FOR AUTHORS
Do you want to ensure the way you think you should promote your work
is indeed the best way? At the end of this six-week class you will
know for sure, and you'll have a customized plan that is tailor made
for your book--and only your book.
M.J. Rose (www.mjrose.com) and Douglas Clegg (www.douglasclegg.com),
novelists, co-founders of Pigeonhole Press and co-authors of Buzz
Your Book will do much more than teach theory. Rose and Clegg will
work on each student's marketing plan, word for word. The work is
done in the class assignments and, when it's done, each student will
have everything they need to go forth and get attention for their
book. To register, and for more information about the course, visit
http://writersweekly.com/wwu/courses/marketing.html
______________________________________________________________
START-UP LATIN MAGAZINE
Start-up Latin Magazine aimed at young, ambitious, urban, Latin
markets of metro NYC is seeking talented writers with hot story
ideas. We want a Maxim with citysearch type flavor to it. Articles
and stories must be sexy not vulgar, hot, creative, intelligent but
not geeky, funny but not immature, opinionated, clever articles,
columns, lists, letters, blurbs, charts. . . the list goes on. Send
in idea for articles in the following categories:
-Sex/Dating - online dating, blind dates, etc.
-Entertainment - Hip hop, Latin, alternative, dance, rock, Latin
rock, etc.
-Music - Hot recording artist and upcoming ones.
If your idea rings a bell with us, we'll give you a call and work
out the details. If this sounds like you, send ideas and salary
requirements to: dssraft@...
______________________________________________________________
SEEKING STORIES FROM MATURE WOMEN OF COLOR
Guidelines: We're calling on mature women of color from 45-105.
We're developing an anthology that's a celebration of your years of
seasoning; a place for all of those stories you want to share with
your Sistahs. You've triumphed as a mother, you've become a dynamic
businesswoman; you're gifted, or perhaps you've come to terms with
negative events in your past.
Write a story, essay, or poem about a unique event in your life.
Submissions should be typed, double-spaced, no more than 2500 words.
Poetry should be no more than two double spaced pages. Send via
email as a Microsoft Word attachment, to vicki@....
Submissions must be received by 11/30/03. You're encouraged to
submit early, as decisions to publish will be made as entries are
received and reviewed. If manuscript is accepted, author will
receive $100.00 and one copy of anthology upon publication. For more
information, please visit: www.seasonedsistahs.com
______________________________________________________________
STUDENT WRITING AWARD
Willamette Writers announces the 2003-2004 Kate Herzog Writing Award
to recognize exceptional student writing. Open to all high school
seniors or college freshman/sophomores in the U.S. This year's theme
is "Winners & Losers". Prizes include college scholarships: first
place = $500; second and third place = $250 each; plus a free
scholarship to the 2004 Willamette Writers Conference. To apply,
please forward the following by no later than Sunday, February 1,
2004 to Kate Herzog Scholarship, 9045 SW Barbur Blvd., Suite 5A,
Portland, OR, 97219:
1. A writing sample, typed, double-spaced. For fiction include an
original, unpublished writing sample of 1000 words or less. For
poetry include an original, unpublished poem, 2 pages or less in
length. The sample should be titled, but should not include
information about the writer. Writing published in school
publications is eligible.
2. A cover letter with contact information, the title of the writing
sample, and a paragraph describing the student's goals as a writer.
3. A letter of recommendation from an instructor in the student's
current academic year.
For further info about the award, please contact Willamette Writers
at 503-452-1592. For more info about Willamette Writers, visit
http://www.willamettewriters.com/
______________________________________________________________
STUDENT WRITING PROGRAM
Young Willamette Writers - Students in grades 4-8 in the greater
Portland area are invited to join an ongoing creative writing
program. For more information visit online
http://www.willamettewriters.com/ or contact Joni Heyman, Willamette
Writers, 9045 SW Barbur Blvd, Suite 5A, Portland, OR 97219.
______________________________________________________________
2003 ZOETROPE: ALL-STORY SHORT FICTION CONTEST
A. M. Homes will judge. First prize: $1000, Second prize: $500,
Third prize: $250
Winners and seven honorable mentions will be announced at the
website December 1, 2003, and in the spring 2004 issue of Zoetrope:
All-Story. Mail entries to: Zoetrope: All-Story Short Fiction
Contest 916 Kearny Street San Francisco, CA 94133
Complete Contest Guidelines - We accept all genres of literary
fiction. Entries must be: unpublished; 5,000 words or less;
postmarked by October 1, 2003; clearly marked "Short Fiction
Contest" on both the story and the outside of the envelope;
accompanied by a $15 entry fee per story (make checks payable to AZX
Publications). Please include name and address on first page or
cover letter only. We welcome multiple entries ($15/story) and
entries from outside the U.S.; please send entry fee in U.S.
currency or money order. While we cannot return manuscripts, we will
forward a list of the winning stories to all entrants who include an
SASE. Entrants retain rights to their stories. For more info visit
http://www.all-story.com/contests.cgi
______________________________________________________________
CALL FOR POETRY
Poet Lore is the oldest continuously published poetry magazine in
the U.S. Under the stewardship of its present publisher, The
Writer's Center, Poet Lore publishes semi-annual installments of the
finest contemporary poetry both by established writers and by those
breaking into print for the first time.
Submission Guidelines:  1. You may submit three to five poems.  2.
All poems must be typed with name and address on each poem.
Photocopies are acceptable.  3. If a poem is more than one page,
please indicate if the second page begins with a new stanza.  4.
Submissions must be poems or essays never before published.  5.
Reviewers: Please query the editors with a sample of your writing.
6. We prefer poems or prose not be simultaneous submitted. However,
we ask you let us know in your cover letter if this is the case. We
also need immediate notification if the work is accepted elsewhere.
7. A SASE must accompany all submissions. No manuscripts will be
considered without an attached SASE.  8. Send your work and SASE to:
Poet Lore, The Writer's Center, 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda, MD
20815. For more information visit http://www.writer.org/poetlore/
___________________________________________________________
INDIANA REVIEW'S FICTION PRIZE
$1000 Honorarium and Publication
Postmark Deadline: October 6, 2003
Reading Fee: $15, includes a year's subscription. All entries
considered for publication.  All entries considered anonymously.
Send no more than one story per entry, 35 double-spaced pages
maximum.  No previously published works, or works forthcoming
elsewhere.  Cover letter must include name, address, phone number,
and title.  Simultaneous submissions acceptable, but fee is non-
refundable.  Entrant's name should appear ONLY in the cover letter.
Entries must be accompanied by SASE for notification.  Manuscripts
will not be returned.  Make checks payable to Indiana Review.  Each
fee entitles entrant to one-year subscription, an extension of a
current subscription, or a gift subscription.  Please indicate your
choice and enclose complete address information for subscriptions.
Send entries to: Fiction Prize/Indiana Review Ballantine Hall 465
1020 E. Kirkwood Ave.  Bloomington, IN  47405-7103
Final Judge: Aimee Bender, author of two books: The Girl in the
Flammable Skirt, a collection of stories and a New York Times
Notable Book of 1998; and An Invisible Sign of My Own, a novel and
an L.A. Times Pick of 2000. For more information visit
http://www.indiana.edu/~inreview/general/prize.htm
________________________________________________________________
"MAKING BOXES AND SHRINES" WORKSHOP AT OMEGA INSTITUTE
September 15-19, 2003
Kathy Cano Murillo, Latina artist and author, will be teaching
students how to express themselves through the fabulous world of
assemblage art, via shrines and shadow boxes. A form of "dimensional
scrap booking", it takes her recent how-to book, Making Shadow Boxes
and Shrines (Rockport Publishers) and brings it to life in a hands-
on way. Students will create all kinds of collage-friendly projects
such as cigar box shrines, tin travel shrines, spirit houses,
dashboard shrines, and much more. Students can bring their own
photos or mementos to incorporate in their projects, otherwise all
supplies are included.
	 To register, or for more information about the workshop,
visit
http://www.eomega.org/omega/workshops/a50aebb38b938ca0c7c30ecc7b42f56
5/; for more information about Kathy Cano Murillo, visit
http://www.kathycanomurillo.homestead.com/
_______________________________________________________________
For past writing opportunities visit
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

If you'd like to share a question, success story, or information
about an organization/event/job opening, please email me at
marcelalandres@...

"Life shrinks or expands according to one's courage."
—Anais Nin

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003

Latinidad Newsletter - July 2003

You are receiving this newsletter because you have expressed an
interest in Marcela Landres and her work. If this newsletter has been
forwarded to you and you wish to receive it directly, please visit
<http://www.marcelalandres.com/id51.htm>. Past newsletters will be
archived at <http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/>

Contents:
1.     Saludos
2.     FAQ
3.     Success Story
4.     Recommended
5.     News to Use
6.     Upcoming Workshops
7.     Writing and Job Opportunities

1. Saludos
I launched my web site <http://www.marcelalandres.com/> in May, and
the response has been overwhelmingly positive. I created the site
because I discovered Latino writers would travel from as far as Los
Angeles, Miami, and even Mexico to New York to attend my workshops.
In order to continue sharing information that I think is of value,
and to maintain and extend my connection to the Latino writing
community, I'm launching the Latinidad Newsletter, and this is the
inaugural issue. The intention of this newsletter, like my workshops
and web site, is to encourage and enable Latino writers to realize
their dreams of being happily published. I hope you find it helpful,
and I invite you to share it with friends and colleagues. Information
is power, but only if you share it.

2. FAQ
July is National Foreign Language Month, and in honor of this, I'd
like to focus on a FAQ I receive from Spanish language writers. (Of
course, Spanish is hardly a foreign language in the US. In fact,
there are places, such as Miami, in which Spanish is arguably the
dominant language.)

Q: I write in Spanish, and want to submit a proposal to you, but your
submission guidelines indicate that the proposal must be written in
English. Why?

A: Good question. This is because of the realities of the publishing
process. While editors have the power to say "No" (reject a
manuscript), most don't have the power to say "Yes" (acquire a
manuscript). What this means is that unless an editor happens to also
be a Publisher or very senior management, editors have to take a
manuscript through an acquisition process before an author can be put
under contract for publication. Different publishing houses handle
the acquisition process in different ways, but it usually runs along
these lines:
	 First, an editor has to persuade her Editor-in-Chief that a
manuscript is a good fit for the department's list. If, after reading
the manuscript, the Editor-in-Chief agrees with the editor that the
manuscript is worthwhile, then the Editor-in-Chief must consult with
the Publisher. This is because it is the Publisher who controls the
money. The editor and Editor-in-Chief need to persuade the Publisher
to offer an advance large enough to convince the agent and author to
sign up with their publishing company.
	 These days, it is becoming more and more important to have an
author that is promotable. As a result, sometimes someone from
Publicity may be asked to read the manuscript to assess the
promotability of the author and manuscript. In addition, the
Marketing and Sales departments may be queried to see how marketable
an idea is, or how enthusiastically they think the bookstores and
other accounts will respond to an author.
	 Bottom line: several people are usually involved in the
acquisition process, not just the editor. It is very unlikely that
any of these people, with the possible exception of the editor, can
read in Spanish. As such, your chances of convincing a publisher that
they should not only publish your work, but do so with great passion
and enthusiasm, increases exponentially if the people involved can
actually read your proposal. So while it is okay to write your
manuscript in Spanish, it is to your advantage that the proposal be
written in English.

More answers to FAQ can be found at
<http://www.marcelalandres.com/id54.htm>

3. Success Story
The more connected you are to the writing community, the closer
you'll be to making your dream of being published come true. This
newsletter, like my web site, is intended to strengthen and expand
the Latino writing community. Below is an example of one writer who
used the information I shared in a past email about the $25,000 John
T. Lupton "New Voices in Literature" Awards sponsored by the Books
for Life Foundation, and he became a finalist. Congratulations Raul!

May 19, 2003

Wonderful news to share with you folks.

I believe that I am now finally on the entrance ramp of the road to
fruition....SKUNK ALPHA is on course and at flank speed.

Good News and Bad News....

Bad News - I didn't win the $10,000 plus $2,500 travel expense award
for the John T. Lupton New Voices In Literature competition that I
entered a while back.  Winners are to be announced (and must be
present) at the BooksAmerica Expo in Los Angeles on the 28th of this
month.  A query letter, book proposal and sample chapter were being
considered.

Good News - my book proposal will be pitched to literary agents, NY
editors and publishers as a result of being selected as one of the
ten nationwide finalists in the Non-fiction genre!

A special thanks goes to Bob Shirley.  Your web site (
<http://www.pcf45.com/index.html>  ) added a great amount of
credibility to the book proposal.  I'm committed to working hard at
finishing the work quickly and thus pay tribute to those Swift Boat
Sailors "Still On Patrol" and to the rest of you that served by their
side in Vietnam.

An added "gracias" goes to my good friend Richard Rios whose editing
hand works magic!  But, without Tony Diaz having forwarded Marcela
Landres' lead on the competition, someone else would have filled my
spot on that Finalist list....."gracias" to you as well.

Raul "Bean" Herrera
<http://www.booksforlifefoundation.com/BooksForLifeSubweb/Finalists.ht
m> <http://mail.yahoo.com/config/login?/ym/Compose?
To=Marcela.Landres@...>

4. Recommended
Karen Quinones Miller is a bestselling writer who I've had the
privilege of working with at Simon & Schuster. She launched her
literary career by self-publishing a novel. At my workshops, I often
recommend that Latino writers seriously considering self-publishing
because it has proven to be an excellent way for many African-
American writers (including Michael Baisden and E. Lynn Harris, among
others) to land a book deal with a major publisher. Self-publishing
is such an effective means of gaining the attention of agents,
editors and publishers, that I wonder why more Latino writers don't
pursue this option.
Of course, there's a difference between simply self-publishing and
successfully self-publishing. To learn how to do it right, I highly
recommend writers check out Karen's "Booking It! Publishing/Self-
Publishing Seminar". For more info, visit her web site
<http://www.oshunpublishing.com/Seminars.htm>

Recommended Archives can be found at
<http://www.marcelalandres.com/id48.htm>.

5. News to Use
Street Life books (literature by and for the hip hop generation) are
growing in popularity, and below are two articles that describe this
popular phenomenon. Street Life books, like hip-hop itself, are
identified strongly with the African-American community, and rightly
so. However, Latinos have arguably been instrumental in creating and
shaping hip hop culture, and are certainly major fans and consumers
of this culture. Case in point, the first reader interviewed in the
AP article below is a fellow by the name of Jose Perez.
However, none of the authors mentioned are Latino. Which begs the
question: Where are the Latino Street Life authors? If your writing
is of and for the hip hop community, or you know of Latino writers
who have this sensibility, please let me know. I'd love to read (and
possibly publish) their work, 1) because I myself grew up with hip
hop, and 2) because one of my missions is to publish books that will
inspire nonreaders to read, and these books have proven to do just
that.

AP "Street Life" article
<http://www.news-
journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Entertainment/Books/sceneBOOK01052
003.htm>

PW "Urban Fiction" article
<http://publishersweekly.reviewsnews.com/index.asp?
layout=article&articleId=CA299553&display=searchResults&text=urban+fic
tion>

For other articles of interest, please visit
<http://www.marcelalandres.com/id41.htm>.

6. Upcoming Workshops
I will be participating in a "New York Editors Q&A Panel". In
addition, I will be conducting one-on-one consultations with writers.

Conference Dates: August 8 through 10
Panel Time and Date: 8:15 am - 9:15 am, Saturday August 9
Location: The Sheraton Airport Hotel, 8235 N.E. Airport Way,
Portland, Oregon 97220-1398
To Register: To attend the conference and to reserve a one-on-one
meeting with me, please visit Willamette Writers' web site:
<http://www.willamettewriters.com/wwc/registration.htm>
Program: For a copy of the conference program, please visit their web
site: <http://www.willamettewriters.com/wwc/program.htm>
Questions?: For more information, please contact the Willamette
Writers office at:
9045 SW Barbur Blvd, Ste 5A
Portland, OR 97219
Voice: 503.452-1592, FAX: 503.452-0372
Email: wilwrite@...
<mailto:wilwrite@...>

To see a list of all my upcoming workshops through 2003, please visit
<http://www.marcelalandres.com/id22.htm>.

7. Writing and Job Opportunities
______________________________________
THE POETRY LIFE PRIZE
24th Open Poetry Competition
http://freespace.virgin.net/poetry.life/24th_open_poetry_
competition.htm
---
ENTRY FEE £4.00 for each poem
1st PRIZE £3000
2nd PRIZE £500
3rd PRIZE £250
20 Special Commendations winning a £25 book token.
Deadline July 26, 2003.
________________________________________
ESSENCE
www.essence.com/essence/writers_guidelines/0,16109,,00.html

The magazine for African-American and Caribbean women. We
feature personal-growth articles, celebrity profiles, and
well-reported pieces on political and social issues. We are
also looking for how-to pieces on careers, money, health and
fitness, and relationships. And we run short items on people
in the arts and community activists. Word length is given
upon assignment. Please send a query letter rather than
submitting a completed manuscript. The only exceptions are
for the Interiors, Our World, Brothers and Back Talk columns.
Essays submitted for these pages should run no longer than 600
words and should be clearly addressed to the editor of the
column. We cannot discuss story ideas over the telephone, nor
can we respond to queries that come by fax or e-mail.
About 50 cents/word.
_______________________________________
SCIFI.COM
http://www.scifi.com/scifiction/submit.html
---
SCIFICTION is looking for literate, strongly plotted science
fiction and fantasy stories between 2,000 and 17,500 words--on
a variety of subjects and themes. We want to intrigue our
readers with mind-broadening, thought-provoking stories.
Characterization is crucial. Stories must be written in clear,
understandable prose. Payment is 20 cents a word up to $3,500.
Originals only; no reprints.
________________________________________
NEW CENTURY WRITER NOVEL/NOVELLA AWARDS
http://www.newcenturywriter.org/6th_ncwa_2003_entry_call.htm
---
ENTRY FEE $35 per each novel excerpt
Two or more novels/novellas for $30 each.
1st Place $2,000 cash
2nd Place $1,000 cash
3rd Place $500 cash
4th - 10th Places $100 cash each
Plus, the TOP 10 novels/novellas will be listed by title and
author, along with author bios, in a New Century Writer Awards®
Best of paperback original anthology. Deadline July 31, 2003.
Winners announced in November 2003.
_______________________________________
JOURNEY
http://journeymagazine.ca/faqs/
---
We publish about three travel features and at least one major
automotive feature every issue. We also feature one-page columns
on lifestyle (gardening, hobbies), health and finance topics,
with a travel or automotive slant. Journey is published four
times per year and represents the CAA clubs in the Maritimes,
as well as Hamilton, Ottawa, Kitchener and Niagara regions in
Ontario. Feature articles are 1200-1500 words ($800); mini-
features are 800-1200 ($600); columns are 400-500 words ($400).
Each article should include at least one sidebar. Payment is
upon publication -- sorry about the wait. A kill fee of 50
percent applies to stories we have assigned but cannot use for
whatever reason. We expect tourist board photos to be used free
of charge, and pay $40 per photo to freelancers.
________________________________________
SPOKEN WORD ENGLISH INSTRUCTOR

The Center for Black Literature seeks a spoken word/poetry instructor
to work in a project in the Center's CUNY Arts Consortium Program.
This project is part of a  program that introduces students to the
elements of the spoken word as an art  form.  Although performance is
emphasized, students study the history of the spoken word as well as
elements of poetry. Students will be expected to compose poems and to
perform them. Students will also have an opportunity to meet spoken
word artists.  The class meets Friday afternoons from 3:30 - 5:45.

The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years teaching
English (poetry) in a middle school or high school.  He/she should
also write and perform poetry.

Interested persons should submit their resume with a cover letter,
writing samples, and references to:

Dr. Brenda M. Greene, Executive Director
Center for Black Literature
Medgar Evers College, Metrotech
1650 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11225
718 270-6976
bgreene@m...

Resumes will be accepted through July 30, 2003.
______________________________________
Poetic Spontaneity: Writing on the Spot
Level: All
American Book Award-winning author Martín Espada will share hands-on
writing experience as a model for teaching poetry workshops in the
community and the schools. Participants will explore a variety of
written forms, including traditional forms, such as odes and elegies;
and not-so-traditional forms, such as  San Antonio haiku and
bilingual jazzpoems.  The workshop will consist of two sessions.  In
the morning, we'll explore a variety of innovative writing
exercises.  In the afternoon, teachers enrolled in the University of
Texas at San Antonio's Summer Institute for the Inclusion of Mexican
American and Latino Literature and Culture in the Classroom will join
the discussion.  This workshop is co-sponsored by the University of
Texas at San Antonio's Division of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies.
Instructor: Martín Espada
Date: Thursday, July 17; 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (one-hour break for lunch)
Limit: 20 students
Location: UTSA Downtown Campus (specific location will be mailed to
workshop participants)
Registration Deadline: Friday, July 11
Fee: $90/member; $100/nonmember
To register, call 210-734-WORD (9673) or 1-877-734-9673, toll free.
Registration may also be completed online at www.geminiink.org
<http://www.geminiink.org>.
____________________________________________

Writing and job opportunities from past email alerts are archived at
<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marcelalandres/>.

Changing the world one e-mail at a time,
Marcela Landres
http://www.marcelalandres.com/

If you'd like to suggest a question, share a success story, and/or
offer information about an organization/event/job opening of interest
to Latino writers for me to feature in an upcoming newsletter, please
email me at marcelalandres@...
<mailto:marcelalandres@...>

"If you bring forth what is inside of you,
what you bring forth will save you.
If you do not bring forth what is inside of you,
  what is inside of you will destroy you."
--The Gnostic Gospel of St. Thomas

Latinidad Newsletter © 2003