The Naked Lady: writing with strength, clarity and grace
Since my earlier book, Super Student/Happy Kid!, was a regional bestseller (thanks in huge part to the media’s interest--including national magazines, TV, NPR, and newspaper reviews), I wanted to tighten my focus to teaching writing. Then, as I noticed more humor being published, I yearned to write a light-hearted how-to-write-well book.
The idea of a naked lady came from classroom experience. The lady is a metaphor I use to teach many elements of writing. With this book she not only a metaphor, but also a character. Her dear friend, The Clothes Horse, came to me unbidden, a foil to nakedness, in my mind.
Of course, there are other how-to-write books in print, including the “bibles” by White and Strunk, Jr., Turabian and Zissner, but books with both accessible prose and playful voices sell best now. Eats, Shoots & Leaves is an example, but The Naked Lady is not about punctuation, it is about good writing.
I have wide experience, an excellent education, references, respected reviews and a reputation for reliability. Considering that I was fully employed for many years, my publishing record is excellent. I taught writing—including at two colleges. Please contact me if you are interested in seeing a proposal for The Naked Lady, and other related materials. For now, thank you for your consideration and best wishes.
Chapters
Preface: The background and discovery of The Naked Lady
Chapter 1
Overwriting: Dressing The Naked Lady
Chapter 2
Thinking on paper: The Naked Lady goes shopping
Chapter 3
Structure of a genre: The Naked Lady builds a wardrobe
Chapter 4
Use of the active voice and passive voice: Vitamin A and The Naked Lady
Chapter 5
Point of View: What The Naked Lady Sees and who sees her
Chapter 6
Use of sensual detail: The Naked Lady sneezes
Chapter 7
Purpose: Where does The Naked Lady want to go and by what method of transportation?
Chapter 8
Authority/Tip of the Iceberg: The Naked Lady’s closet (more than she’s wearing)
Chapter 9
Useful writing devices: Contents of the Naked Lady’s Purse
Chapter 10
Proofreading: The Naked Lady looks in the mirror