Judith's Blog

Book review: Love Writing by Sue Moorcroft

By Shelley White

I THOUGHT I’d written a red-hot love story until I read Sue Moorcroft’s book.

Then I discovered that my effort at romantic fireworks was merely a damp squib. My Heathcliff and Kathy had more in common with Kermit and Miss Piggy, my scrummy Mr Darcy was akin to a sex-starved Mr Bean and my teasing Lolita was more teacher’s pet.

I had lots to learn.

Book review: The Greatest Freelance Writing Tips in the World

By Heather Sutherland

THIS is a book written by Linda Jones ex journalist, freelance writer, blogger at You've got your hands full, Judith's Room member and all round fabulous lady who has helped me out a lot with starting freelance writing.

Her book arrived today and I have been racing through it.  Verdict?  It's flippin' brilliant.  You know all those questions you have about how to write a pitch, should you write the article first or not, how do you find out how to email it to, should you call them afterwards, how soon etc etc? She answers them all and so much more.  

Favourite reads: The Girls by Lori Lansens

I have never looked into my sister's eyes. I have never bathed alone. I have never stood in the grass at night and raised my arms to a beguiling moon. I've never used an aeroplane bathroom. Or worn a hat. Or been kissed like that...So many things I've never done, but oh, how I've been loved. And, if such things were to be, I'd live a thousand times as me, to be loved so exponentially."

So begins Lori Lansens' The Girls. Who could fail to be moved by such a tender and evocative beginning? And it just gets better and better.

Rose and Ruby Darlen are as close as sisters can be. Born joined at the head, they have lived a life full of spectacle, ridicule, love and wonderment. Now approaching 30, the girls are telling their own story in two contrasting styles,  capturing all the hopes, fears, crashing disappointments and ordinary yet tender moments in two extraordinary lives.

I found Lori Lansens' evocative tale deeply affecting. It’s a long time for me since any fictional characters leapt from the page like Rose and Ruby, remembering their beloved Aunt Lovey and Uncle Stash.