Author Archive

Posted on February 16, 2012 - by Shari Barr

Funny, funny

I’ve got a warped sense of humor, I know. The things that make me laugh make others cringe and roll their eyes.

The same goes for my favorite comedies. The dumber the script and less brain waves required to follow the plot, the more I like it. This probably says little for my mental capabilities, but “I yam what I yam.”

High on my list of meaningless flicks is Mel Brook’s masterpiece “Spaceballs,” a spoof of “Star Wars” and “Star Trek.” You can’t possibly go wrong with Bill Pullman as Lone Starr, the clueless pilot of his flying Winnebago on a rescue mission to free Princess Vespa from the evil forces of Dark Helmet. In one of his most notable roles, John Candy gives us a stunning performance as Barf, the half man/half dog sidekick. (I’ve got you intrigued, now. Admit it.)

Now that you’ve hurried over to Netflix, check out “Coneheads,” the classic movie version of the Saturday Night Live skit, starring Dan Akroyd and Jane Curtin. Click here for one of my favorite parts of the movie—Connie’s tattoo.

Everybody needs to watch a good disaster spoof once in a while. If you haven’t seen “Airplane,” check out a copy. You’ll never look at your flight crew the same again.

As a kid, one of my all-time favorite TV shows was “The Brady Bunch,” so it’s only natural that when “The Brady Bunch Movie” came out in the 90’s, I was in Brady heaven. (I wasn’t a kid anymore, either. I know—I’m giving away my age.) I didn’t think the scene with Marcia getting smacked in the nose with a football could get any funnier, but it does—each time I watch it. And, of course, I can’t forget Jan’s incessant whine, “Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!” (I told you I was warped, so you can’t say you weren’t warned.) 

For all you writers out there, if you haven’t seen “Funny Farm” with Chevy Chase and Madolyn Smith, this is a must-see. When Andy Farmer gives up his Manhattan sports writing job to live on a farm and write his novel, his life becomes every city slicker’s worst nightmare. For the small town/rural dweller, this show’s humor hits pretty close to home at times.

Many of my favorite movies have no doubt made the “Rotten Tomatoes” list, but for me they’re down right funny, and we all need a good laugh once in awhile. Many of them, however, just bring back memories. What are your favorite comedies? Who or what makes you laugh?

Posted on February 2, 2012 - by Shari Barr

Aloha!

Aloha. When most of you read this post, my husband and I will be wrapping up our last day of vacation in paradise. After eight days on the island of Maui, we’re heading for home on a long, long flight to Phoenix, then on to Kansas City before driving home to our farm in southwest Iowa.

In lieu of a devotion–and since I’ve been away from my computer–I decided to share some of my favorite devotional blogs and authors with you. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

God is in the Compost Pile by Jean Fischer is a wonderful, inspirational blog filled with devotions that will warm your heart and lead you in a closer walk with Jesus. Join her at http://inthecompostpile.blogspot.com.

In Search of the Whole-Hearted Life by Bonnie Jaeckle tackles some of the deeper, more meaningful aspects of life. Bonnie’s posts are guaranteed to make you stop and think (and possibly think some more.) Check out her blog at http://whole-heartedlife.blogspot.com.

Time-Warp Wife by Darlene Schacht teaches women the biblical truths of serving their husbands and families. She encourages all Christian women to live their faith by joyfully following God’s word. Her blog can be found at http://time-warp-wife.blogspot.com.

From the Mango Tree by Anita Mellott offers hope and encouragement—no matter what problems life has dealt you. Her words will renew and strengthen your faith. Check out her blog at http://www.anitamellott.com.

Posted on January 19, 2012 - by Shari Barr

Welcome, Author Cara Putman

Today’s guest author is an ambitious young woman whose smile and charm will make you feel like you’ve known her forever. With numerous novels behind her and more on the way, she’s mastered the art of keeping her readers intrigued until the very end. If you’ve never met her, you’re in for a treat. Please welcome Cara Putman.

Cara, tell us a little about you.

I live in Indiana with my husband and four children. I’m an attorney and a teacher at my church as well as lecturer at Purdue and adjunct faculty at a local community college. I have loved reading and writing from a young age and now realize it was all training for writing books. I love bringing history and romance to life.

An honors graduate of the University of Nebraska and George Mason University School of Law, I left small town Nebraska and headed to Washington, D.C., to launch my career in public policy. God detoured me to Indiana, a state I love to call home.

I am an author chasing hard after God as I live a crazy life.

Your ambition is admirable. When did you begin writing? Did someone encourage you to write, or did you just always know?

I first started writing as a young teen. My favorite authors of the time: Gilbert Morris, Janette Oke, Sandy Dengler, Michael Phillips, etc., just didn’t write fast enough, so I thought I’d help them out. Because I was homeschooled, my mom let me write as long as I was actually writing. Then I started college, a career and family, then law school, and the desire didn’t go away, but the time wasn’t right. Then in 2005 everything changed. The desire had reappeared at the forefront of my life, and I met an author who has been one of my biggest cheerleaders: Colleen Coble.

Sounds like things were falling into place for you, even as a child. I’ve noticed that you write in several genres. Do you have a favorite?

My favorites are my books set during World War II on the homefront. There’s something about that generation and the way they pulled together that inspires me. I can’t read a book about that time without seeing story possibilities.

What is a typical writing day for you? How do you find balance with your day job and raising a family?

I don’t really have a typical day. If I’m under deadline, I may have a babysitter come once a week to give me an afternoon to slip away to Panera to write. Otherwise, my typical work time is after the kids go to bed. So you’ll often find me writing between the hours of 9 and midnight. Because we homeschool, my days are usually filled with the kids and the occasional teaching slot at Purdue or Ivy Tech.

You are one busy mom, such an inspiration for other young moms struggling with the challenges of raising a family and pursuing a career. This leads to my next question. Do you have a favorite place to go to find inspiration?

I have a corner booth in Panera which I call my writing home. Not what you meant? Because I love research, I’ll often find ideas in magazines, newspapers, when we’re on vacation, etc. When we went to the Biltmore Mansion a couple years ago, I kept stumbling on World War II story ideas. Everyone else would see Gilded Age stories, but not me!

How did you land your first contract? How much time elapsed between beginning writing that first novel and publication?

I went to the ACFW conference in 2005, only a few months after I started writing again. While there I hosted a workshop for Jim and Tracie Peterson. The ironic thing was at the time I had no thoughts of writing for Heartsong Presents. But as Jim and I started talking, an idea formed – just the outline really. Then over the next day more pieces came to me. Then a friend wanted to sit at Jim’s table so I screwed up the gumption (not too hard if you know me) to ask him if Heartsong might be interested in a story like it. He thought it sounded interesting and told me to talk to Tracie. She was open, so as soon as I got home, I fleshed out the proposal and sent it in. I ignored that rule about writing the manuscript first…shh, don’t tell anyone. When he emailed asking if the book was finished, I stayed up for three weeks until it was written. I received the contract at the 2006 ACFW conference, and the book released in the fall of 2007. In 2008 Canteen Dreams tied for first in the Carol Awards for short historical. It’s been quite a journey!

Wow! That is an amazing story. Can you tell us a little about that debut novel?

Canteen Dreams was and is a story of my heart. People always say to write what you know. I love World War II, I love my grandparents, and I love that my hometown (North Platte, Nebraska) played a unique role in the war. Those three elements came together in Canteen Dreams. A school teacher and a rancher meet at a dance the night before Pearl Harbor. The sparks fly, but with the declaration of war life gets complicated. Audrey launches into the efforts of the local canteen, and Willard does all he can to enlist. I love this story!

That sounds like a wonderful book. Are you working on anything new?

Currently, I’m working on a proposal with my friends Tricia Goyer and Sarah Sundin for a World War II novella collection set in my current hometown in Indiana. I also have two proposals for World War II trade novels (one set in Europe and the other stateside) that I’m fixing and praying over. That plus the marketing of my three spring releases is keeping me busy!

Those proposals all sound like the makings for fascinating stories. Now, Cara, who are some of your favorite authors?

Oh! Great question. For historicals I adore Julie Klassen (regency), Tamera Alexander, Tricia Goyer, Sarah Sundin, Dan Walsh, and Mary Connealy. For suspense I can’t put down Irene Hannon, Steven James, Robin Caroll, Colleen Coble or Brandilyn Collins. For straight romance I love a Jenny B. Jones book!

Wonderful choices, Cara. What is your main goal as a writer?

My goal is to tell an entertaining story that grips readers, pulls them deep into a story, and along the way shows them or reminds them about God’s character. And if it’s historical, my goal is to weave the history into the story in a way that doesn’t slow down the story – but instead makes it even more fascinating.

What is the most important thing you’ve learned as a writer?

I will never arrive. I will always have to push myself deeper and further. The moment I stop being willing to do that, I should trade in my laptop for a more lucrative career!

Great advice for every writer. Thank you so much for joining us today, Cara! It’s been fun. Readers, don’t forget to stop by Cara’s website at www.caraputman to learn more about her and her books.

Don’t forget to leave a comment the next two weeks to get your name in a drawing for a free book pack.

Posted on January 5, 2012 - by Shari Barr

Quitters Never Prosper

Don’t quit. Those two words are the most important ones I’ve heard as a writer—especially in the prepublication days.

Even after story and article acceptances began trickling in, I was tempted to just chuck it all when acceptances didn’t come my way as often as I thought they should. But I am so glad I didn’t. Perseverance is an essential trait to finding success as a writer. (A bit of stubbornness comes in handy too.)

Those days of just plugging along, selling an article here and there, and wondering if my ship was ever going to come in, led to opportunities I had never considered.

My dream had always been to write fiction, but when I got a chance to write non-fiction, I not only added credits to my resume, the door eventually opened to my first book deal.

Switching gears to the world of non-fiction was one of the best things I ever did in my writing career. Not only did it open my eyes to a new genre, it gave me incentive to keep writing. It’s really hard to quit when you know someone depends on your muse and sends you a paycheck to show how much they appreciate you.

In my early days as a writer, God had a different plan for my writing. He knew I wasn’t ready to write a full-length novel, so He opened up a door for me to write Sunday school curriculum for middle grade kids. This was more creative than I ever thought possible. No, I wasn’t writing fiction, but I was teaching God’s word and hopefully making it fun for kids in the process.

Out of this opportunity came two non-fiction book deals with the same publisher. These credits gave me confidence and experience, helping pave the way for several books in a mystery series for middle grade girls. Need I say more about why I’m glad I didn’t quit.

Even if your dreams don’t include becoming a writer, perseverance is the key to achieving your goals. Satan is the one putting those negative, self-deprecating thoughts into your head. God never whispers the word “quit” into your ear. Satan, however, loves it when people give up on their dreams, especially when those aspirations involve spreading the word of God.  God may not provide a straight shot to the pot at the end of the rainbow. He may take you on a little detour first.

Posted on December 22, 2011 - by Shari Barr

Stealing Jesus

Over the years I’ve simplified decorating our house for Christmas. The less I decorate the more relaxed I feel, and ultimately, I am able to calmly celebrate the real reason for Christmas. Some may call me a scrooge, but it works for me. This year we have a tree and that’s pretty much it—except for a little wooden nativity scene that sits on an end table reminding me of a story I heard several years ago.

The little boy went with his parents to Grandma’s house. He loved looking at the tiny nativity scene she displayed in her living room. The colorful porcelain figurines of Joseph, Mary, the three wise men, and of course, the baby Jesus fascinated the preschooler. Every time he visited Grandma that Christmas, he headed for her nativity scene, especially drawn to the Christ child lying in the manger.

But, then, the inevitable happened. One day the baby Jesus disappeared. The family looked everywhere, but the search for Grandma’s lost figurine was futile. Baby Jesus could not be found.

Later after the family returned home, the little boy’s mother got him ready for bed and a small object fell out of the pocket of his jeans. When she asked him why he took it, he simply responded that he wanted the baby Jesus.

On the next trip to Grandma’s house, the little boy did as he was told and returned the baby Jesus to the crèche. After the boy’s family returned home, Grandma noticed once again that the Christ child was missing. When she informed her daughter, the boy’s mother quickly located the lost figurine—again.

You guessed it. Every time the little boy went to Grandma’s house, he came home with Jesus.

Oh, how we should all be like this innocent little boy! He knew he wanted to make Jesus his own, and he did what it took to get Him.

All I want for Christmas this year is the joy that little boy found in stealing Jesus. It’s as simple as that. There is no greater gift. 

The above story is based on actual events. Circumstances were embellished and names were eliminated to protect the innocent (and guilty.)

Posted on December 8, 2011 - by Shari Barr

Dustin Morrison: A Soldier’s Story

Doctors thought the 20-year-old Iowa Army National Guardsman wouldn’t live 20 minutes after his vehicle hit a roadside bomb in Afghanistan on April 11. 

The moment Dustin Morrison’s parents, Kelli Pedersen and Terry and Melissa Morrison, received the devastating news of the blast, prayer chains were set in motion across rural southwest Iowa and beyond. The family prepared to fly to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany where Dustin had been transferred. When hospital staff called back and said to have Dustin’s brother, Brandon, and sister, Lisa, come as well, they realized just how serious their son’s situation was. Upon arrival in Germany doctors were straightforward with them about Dustin’s prognosis. Though medical staff didn’t expect him to survive, they continued the fight by placing him in a medically induced coma since his lungs were critically injured in the blast.

Morrison fought for his life and began breathing on his own nearly three weeks after the blast. He opened his eyes for the first time on Easter morning. Several days later, he and his mom made the aeromedical flight to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington for further advanced care. 

From his first surgery in Afghanistan to additional surgeries in Germany and Washington D.C., doctors placed pins in his severely broken ankle, replaced the shattered L2 vertebrae in his back, placed three pins in his right hand, and inserted a rod in his broken left femur. Though Dustin had made miraculous progress, doctors in D.C. told him he would never walk again. 

Nearly two weeks I ago, I sat in a church in Dustin’s hometown of New Market, Iowa and watched him walk unaided down the aisle. He climbed the steps to the pulpit and shared his testimony of faith. Moved by his inspirational story, the congregation responded with a standing ovation.

Though Dustin will require surgery on his ankle in the following year and will have ongoing physical and occupational therapy, this young soldier and his family glorified God throughout the ordeal, graciously accepting whatever plan God had for him. Dustin openly shares the words of truth his mother spoke to him, “Don’t let fear override your faith.” 

Dustin’s story is living proof of the power of prayer. The faith that Dustin and his family demonstrated is an example of Christians living their lives according to God’s will, fully accepting His grace and love.

With the Advent season upon us, there is no better time to reflect on the miracles that only God can do.

Posted on November 24, 2011 - by Shari Barr

Christmas Reads for the Young and Young at Heart

Happy Thanksgiving!

Soon the aroma of roasting turkey and pumpkin pie will be nothing more than a memory. For many this signals the beginning of the Christmas season. There’s no better time to snuggle beneath an afghan, sip a cup of hot cider, and read a good book. 

The following three children’s books are favorites of mine and aren’t just for kids. They’re a perfect quick read for the season of Advent, guaranteed to get you and yours in the Christmas spirit.

The Candle in the Window by Grace Johnson portrays the true meaning of Christmas in this superbly told tale. Gunther, a lonely German cobbler, finds no joy in the Christmas season—it’s simply a reminder of the wife and son he’s lost. When unexpected visitors show up in his shop on Christmas Eve with a candle for his window, they explain that according to legend, the candle is an invitation for the Christ Child to enter the hearts of men. As Gunther hurriedly makes preparations, he is soon disappointed when he must give the gifts he’s prepared for the Christ Child to others in need. Only after his visitors leave, does Gunther understand the true impact of his actions.

Annika’s Secret Wish by Beverly Lewis is a beautiful story based on Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than receive.” According to Swedish tradition, the child who finds an almond hidden in his rice pudding on Christmas Eve has a chance to make a wish for anything he desires. Annika has yet to find the almond in her bowl, but when she does, she struggles with finally fulfilling her own dream or giving that chance to someone she loves dearly. 

Christmas in the Trenches by John McCutcheon is an inspiring story of peace and hope between enemies in a time of war. The World War I Christmas truce tells the true story of a miracle that took place between British and German troops on a cold December night in France in 1914. Huddled in trenches on either side of a barren ground called No Man’s Land, the British were stunned when the fighting ceased and they heard the German soldiers singing Silent Night in their native tongue. Climbing from their trenches, the British joined in, the two languages blending as one. For several hours, the enemies became friends, sharing small gifts and even playing a game of soccer. Though the fighting resumed the next day, the troops gave us a glimpse of how peace really begins.

What are some of your favorite Christmas books?

Posted on November 10, 2011 - by Shari Barr

A Letter to My Teenage Self From Shari

Dear Teenage Shari,

I know that life as a teenager can seem nothing short of confusing at times, but you will get through it and be a better person because of it. Believe me, I’ve been there already. Remember?

I know this is important to you right now, but popularity isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Oh, it’s nice and all, but don’t try so hard to fit in. No matter how hard you try to be everyone’s friend, not everyone will like you. That’s true later in life, too, but that’s okay. God made you like you are for a reason. Etch the following saying into your memory: “What other people think of you is none of your business.”

Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams. God put those desires in your heart so you will be the person He intended. Not everyone will support those dreams, but embrace your individuality; even though there will be times when you must go it alone. (Remember, though, you will never be truly alone.)

The rejection you feel in the dating world is God’s way of preparing the path for you to achieve your dreams. He is not being mean. On your journey to becoming a writer, you will experience much rejection, but you will be prepared. And, yes, you heard me right. You will be a published author. Your days of keeping your dreams a secret are numbered. Thank God for those guys who rejected you, because it made you stronger. And, strength is a great asset to get you through the trials of life that will come. Besides, the rejection from guys will come to an end.

When it comes to relationships, please understand that some of the most unlovable people need the most love. More than likely those difficult people who cross your path didn’t get that way because of you, but from struggles in their own life. Everyone has their own set of baggage. Try really hard to be kind to them anyway. Revenge makes the situation worse.

Don’t be so anxious to grow up. You need time to grow and mature before your prayers are answered. Relax and let God do His job on His own terms. Good things will happen–when He’s ready. Don’t worry about spending your life alone. He will bless you with the husband and family you always dreamed about. He really does know best. I know that now.

As you grow older you will see many things wrong in this world. Speak up and try to make a difference. Be a voice for those who have none.

The older you get, the more problems you will have. Accept it. It’s all a part of life. Praying without ceasing, in good times and in bad, does wonders for your outlook. When you’re faced with difficult situations—and believe me, there will be plenty—pay extra attention to that little voice inside. It could be God whispering.

Your older (and hopefully more wiser) self,

Shari

Posted on October 27, 2011 - by Shari Barr

The Vitals of Point of View

Early in the preplanning of your book, you will need to decide how you wish to treat viewpoint. 

First-person and third-person viewpoints are the most common methods used in writing fiction. Second-person can also be used if you want to address the reader personally—You look out the window and see a figure creeping toward you in the darkness…This is an awkward and unpopular writing style today, though, so I’ll skip over it and discuss first and third person today.

First-person point of view involves writing as though you, the author, are the main character, written with the pronoun “I.” Pretend you have a camera on your forehead. The reader can only see what the narrator sees, knows, or feels.

Here are several advantages for writing in first-person:

• It’s easy to get inside your protagonist’s mind.
• It’s natural since we all tell our life story from our own point of view.
• The language can be chattier—like the thoughts that are going through our own minds.

Here are some disadvantages of first-person:

• It’s difficult to give the protagonist a unique voice, without him or her sounding like you.
• It’s hard for the main character to describe their personal appearance without resorting to the overdone method of looking in a mirror.
• Characterization can be tricky when you can’t get inside the minds of other characters.

Third-person point of view means the author (and reader) only knows what is going on inside the mind of the viewpoint character, and the writer uses the pronouns “he” or “she” to tell the story. You can stay inside one character’s head for the entire book (third-person, limited viewpoint) or you can tell your story from the viewpoint of several different characters (third-person, multiple viewpoints.) 

Writing from a limited viewpoint is almost as personal as writing in first-person and you can also come right out and describe your protagonist’s appearance. However, the limited viewpoint restricts the information you may want to relay to your reader.

Writing in third-person, multiple viewpoints is one of the most popular methods used in writing fiction. When using this method, however, you must become the character whose point of view you are using at that particular time. With every viewpoint change, each person must be consistent with his or her true character. Your teenage character’s point of view will not be the same as your thirty-year-old female’s viewpoint. This can be tricky with a first novel but is well worth practicing and perfecting.  

One problem of writing in third-person from the viewpoint of two or more characters is learning how to transition into the mind of a different person so as not to confuse the reader. Many times writers may alternate chapters—each chapter is told from the viewpoint of a different character. This works well and is easy to follow. 

If you need to change viewpoint within a chapter, do so at the end of a scene. This is often done with an extra line break, so the reader is clear about the change. 

It’s okay to change viewpoint when necessary if you have a good reason to do so and the reader isn’t confused in the process. 

Point of view doesn’t have to be tricky. At first, you may not know which to use for your book. As you begin the planning stages of your novel, one method may seem more natural and beneficial for the story you’re telling. 

Read, read, and read some more. Then study the different styles to decide which viewpoint style is right for your novel. And, remember, none of these rules are written in stone.

Posted on October 13, 2011 - by Shari Barr

Paths of Righteousness

“He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

When I read this scripture, I can’t help but wonder why I have so much trouble following God when it is all spelled out so clearly. If He guides me, why don’t I just simply follow Him? It doesn’t get much easier than that, does it?

I guess I’m stubborn or so busy getting on with life that I don’t even see the path at times. I’m too busy going where I want to go, when I want to go, that I fail to follow His guidance. My sinful nature keeps me on the road I want to take, which isn’t necessarily the most God pleasing route.

Doing things my way is more fun, I might say, but that’s when I get into trouble. Following my own desires, or the ways of the world, is like lurching over a road full of pot holes that eventually leads to a dead-end.

Though life is full of detours and roadblocks, following God’s voice helps me navigate the bumpy roads that come my way. No matter what troubles I face, He will never lead me down a path that leads to immorality. Any sinful choices I make are my doing, not God’s.

Without a shepherd, sheep will follow the same trails over and over, wandering aimlessly as they follow each other. Sheep, just like people, want to belong and will hang onto bad habits in order to do that, never minding the fact that it will eventually cause them to stray.

Just like David would never lead his sheep into unsafe territory, God never leads us down a dangerous path either. Every step of the way, David guided his flock, always watching, always leading. The sheep knew that following the shepherd would keep them out of harm’s way and provide the nourishment they needed. David moved his flock at the right time, leading them to fresh pastures and water where they would thrive.

God’s path for us is often only revealed to us one step at a time. Following him closely is the key to discovering His chosen path. Even during the most stressful times, our job is to obey His commands quoted in scripture, trusting Him to provide us with the knowledge we need ahead of time to make wise choices.

Our God is a loving God who wants us to live joyful, healthy lives, and He has provided us with a necessary path. A path that not only guides us here on earth but leads to life eternal. The decision to follow Him, though, is our choice and ours alone. The path we choose is up to us.

But God always beckons, “Come. Follow me.”