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swwj society of women writers and journalists
Issue 94
SUMMER 2019
• • • •
Pocket Novels 125th Anniversary Lunch Report AGM & Tea at the House of Lords Poetry Corner www.swwj.co.uk
Who’s who Printed by TandC Printers, Bromley, Kent BR1 3PU Issue 94
Editor: Carol Cannavan 10 Dury Falls Close, Hornchurch Essex RM11 3AX Tel: 01708 459376 Mob: 07947 133509 carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk Chairman: Barbara Field-Holmes BIGG-in Words Ltd Room 2, Aileen McHugo Building Westmore Green, Tatsfield Westerham, Kent TN16 2AG Tel: 01959 575031 (Wk) Tel: 01959 575936 (Home) Mob: 07814 738894 swwj@bigginwords.co.uk Vice Chairman: Rebecca Harding Mob: 07966 459080 rebecca@saltwhistle.com Hon Treasurer: Benita Cullingford Tel: 01727 857388 b.cullingford@btinternet.com Manager, Writer’s Debut benitaswwj@btinternet.com Hon Secretary/Events: Janice Grande Tel: 01268 451547 Mob: 07951 671498 grandewords@yahoo.com Speakers: Pamela Payne Tel: 01730 892413 pamela@thebeach.com
Summer 2019
Marketing Coordinator: Michelle Harriman Mob: 07894 703717 Michelle@dotiprojects.co.uk
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Patrons: Lady Howard, Sir Tim Rice, The Earl of Stockton, Simon Brett OBE
Competitions/Social Media/Manuscript Appraisal: Vivien Brown Tel: 01895 254453 vivienhampshire@btinternet.com
President:
Archivist: Sylvia Kent Tel: 01277 651062 skent32@tiscali.co.uk
Doris Corti,Valerie Dunmore, Joyce Elsden, Sylvia Kent, Jennie Lisney, Jean Morris, Mary Rensten, Jean Marian Stevens
Book Reviews/ Chawton House Liaison: Pamela Birley Tel: 020 7351 6377 bra33@btinternet.com
The Rt Hon Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham OBE DL
Vice Presidents:
Welfare/Benevolent Fund
Website: Gywneth Box Mob: 07986 613437 hello@gwynethbox.com
If any member requires help, please contact Jennie Lisney on 01444 412087 or write to: 4 Larch Way, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 3TY.
Minutes Secretary: Vacancy
Email: jennielisney@gmail.com Donations to benefit our members in times of illness or hardship should be made out to SWWJ Benevolent Fund.
Council Support: Katherine Bolton Mob: 07834 954993 katherineindevon@gmail.com Consultants: Martin Cort (Drama) Tel: 020 7582 5839 mcort1@talktalk.net
Patrick Forsyth (Marketing) Membership Secretary: patrick@touchstone28.com Valerie Dunmore Vivien Brown (Proofreader) Tel: 01737 557936 swwjval@aol.com Newsletter/Overseas: Doreen Friend Tel: 020 8505 2476 doreen.friend@swwj.co.uk
The Woman Writer is published by The Society of Women Writers & Journalists
SWWJ website: www.swwj.co.uk
SWWJ members have the right to express their opinions in The Woman Writer. These opinions are not necessarily those of the Council or Editor. Neither the Editor nor the Society accepts responsibility for errors in articles. The Editor reserves the right to amend articles submitted.
Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
From the Editor
Contents 4
From the Chair By Barbara Field-Holmes.
5-6
Letters The latest news and views.
6 - 10
Society News Discover what is happening in the SWWJ.
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Obituary The sad passing of Jocelyn Glegg.
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Members’ news A round-up of news and successes.
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House of Lords AGM, Tea & Tour Application form.
14 - 15 Poets’ corner Verses by Dorothy Pope and guest poem by Doris Corti. 16 - 17 Overseas members The latest news. 18 - 19 Fiction focus Who do you think you are?
Hi everyone! I was so looking forward to attending the 125th Anniversary Lunch on 2nd May. Sadly, a bereavement in my family meant I could not be there. However, I can see from photos taken on the day that it was a terrific event! You can read all about it on page 20. The SWWJ Council is busily working on the next celebratory event for this year, which will be in another prestigious place – none other than the House of Lords! Full details are on page 8. That’s not the only treat we have in store for you. The Southern Region will be holding a special 125th Anniversary meeting at the Chichester Yacht Club in October – all are welcome to attend – see page 9. And finally, our last celebration of the year will be the Christmas Tea Party at the National Liberal Club – details are on page 10. Hope to see you at some of these events.
20 - 22 Celebrating 125 years Report on the Anniversary Lunch. 23
AGM Notice
carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk
24 - 25 Pocket Novels A great opportunity for writers. 26 - 27 SWWJ Competitions Announcing two competitions. 27
SWWJ Poetry Day Booking form.
28 - 29 Marketing An offer you can refuse.
32 - 33 Markets & Competitions 34 - 37 Book reviews 38
Christmas Tea booking form
39
Diary dates for 2019 - 2020 Front cover picture 125
30
When I was not upon this page Green fingers, with Doreen Friend.
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Around the regions News from Moonraker Country.
swwj society of women writers and journalists
Issue 94
SUMMER 2019
Field of rapeseed flowers. Inset: Mary Rensten and The Rt Hon Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham OBE DL .
• Pocket Novels • 125th Anniversary Lunch report • Fiction Focus • Poetry Corner www.swwj.co.uk
The Woman Writer Summer 2019
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From the Chair Chair types... by Barbara Field-Holmes, Chairman There is so much that I would like to say that I’m not sure where to begin. Why? You may well ask. My hesitation is because this is my last ‘Chair types’ after four years in the Chair. In September, I will be handing over the reins to Vice Chairman, Rebecca Harding at our Annual General Meeting. This year, we moved the AGM from June, which we felt was too close to our 125th Anniversary Lunch, to September. Originally, this was going to follow-on after our normal Council meeting on Monday 9th June, at the National Liberal Club, as there were plans for an autumn event at the House of Lords that would have been the ‘official’ SWWJ event for the autumn. However, on reflection I felt that a quiet AGM this year was not suitable for handing over to Rebecca; she deserved something much better. Therefore, we are now holding our AGM at the House of Lords. It will still be on Monday 9th September, but will precede a ‘Tea and Tour’ event, hosted by our President, Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham, Floella Benjamin. Timings can be seen on pages 8 and the application form can be found on page 13. As is usual, for those who only want to attend the AGM, you can do so, free of charge. For those wishing to stay and enjoy tea and a tour of part of the House of Lords, there is a ticket price of £28.50 for members and £30 for guests. It hardly seems possible that four years ago, on 25th June 2015, I took over the Chair from Valerie Dunmore, having just had over a year as Vice Chair. It was a steep learning curve, but one that was made easier with the help of Valerie and a few other Vice Presidents and Council members. I would like to say thank you to them all for their 4
support over the past four years, and that of members who have joined Council during that time. Despite all the hard work, I have enjoyed my time in the Chair. I even remember writing my very first Chair types column in the Summer 2015 issue of The Woman Writer. Back then, I wrote about the challenges ahead, and spoke of the new ‘dedicated and positive’ team that were ‘champing at the bit to move forward’. We still have a ‘dedicated and positive’ team, and we are still all ‘champing at the bit’ to move even further forward. We have achieved a lot in the past four years, which I will talk about in my final Chair’s report at AGM and in the Autumn issue, but we have many plans for the future and I have every confidence that your new Chairman, Rebecca, will do an excellent job looking after the Society in the next phase of its journey. Barbara Field-Holmes As the current Chairman of Council, it is my responsibility to inform the membership that The Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe has stepped down from the position of Hon Life President.
Minutes Secretary required We are looking for someone to take minutes at our SWWJ Council meetings, which take place five times a year at The National Liberal Club, London. Your travel expenses will be covered and you will receive an honorarium of £100. The meetings start around 11.30am and usually finish by 4pm. If you would like more information, please contact Barbara Field-Holmes at: swwj@bigginwords.co.uk Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Letters Write to us Come on members, let’s hear from you. This is your opportunity to have your say. Send your views to the Editor (see page 2 for contact details).
Happy memories It was great to read Pamela Birley's tribute to Wendy Hughes in the Spring issue of The Woman Writer. She was one of the first SWWJ members I met – and I used to attend her inspirational workshops in Worthing. I kept in touch with her even after she was no longer able to do her workshops because of ill health. I remember one time when Conrad drove her up to Midhurst as a half-way point between Rustington and Liphook, so she and I could have a catch-up lunch. And last summer Margaret Mounsdon and I met Wendy for a girlie lunch in Worthing. She was always so upbeat and positive – despite being plagued for years by ill health. I remember her telling me that Stickler Syndrome was a genetic disorder and she was so relieved that neither of her sons had inherited it – she had inherited it from her mother. Mari Wallace
Helping hand As competitions co-ordinator for the SWWJ I receive a lot of correspondence – members sending me their entries, cheques, queries and thank yous. But, back in April, I received a very different kind of letter. It was from an elderly lady who gave me her name but not her address, and who I got the impression would prefer to remain anonymous. Although not a member, she tells me that she used to write and now regularly reads The Woman Writer, courtesy of a friend. She then offered me a list of suggestions that I might like to consider as The Woman Writer Summer 2019
future competition themes. How kind! Choosing a suitable theme or prompt always takes a lot of thought. I have to make sure that it is broad enough to be capable of multiple interpretations, that it is not too restrictive or specific, that it is something anyone can use to spark ideas and think up new angles, in some cases (especially for our popular Winner Takes All competitions), encompassing equal potential for producing winning poetry, articles and fiction. So, thank you very much for the list. All help much appreciated, and at least one of this lady’s suggestions could well have hit the spot! Vivien Brown
Membership drive? What a splendid occasion the 125th Anniversary Lunch was. A good turnout, an impressive venue and an excellent guest speaker. Everyone, including myself, clearly enjoyed it very much. Well done to all concerned with setting this up. But… much as I value my membership (okay Associate Membership), I had a worry as I looked around the room. If SWWJ is to continue long into the future then, given the average age around me, the matter of increasing membership numbers, and doing so significantly, is a pressing one. I hope that, with the time spent on organising the recent wonderful celebrations past, the matter of promoting the Society will be an absolute priority. Perhaps, if you agree, every member could make a real effort to recommend others to join; we have plenty of good things to tell them about. Patrick Forsyth Note from the Editor: You are absolutely right Patrick, we do have plenty of positive things to shout about, and it would be great if members could encourage other to join. 5
Letters
Society news
A good read
Spring Southern Regional Meeting 2019
Thank you, Carol, our Editor, for the bumper Spring issue of The Woman Writer. It was packed with good reading! Those wonderful prize-winning competition entries, especially Pamela Payne's adventures in the air – what fun that must have been! – and Sylvia Kent's multi-faceted career; what will she do next? So inspiring! Poignant poems and prose from Marilyn Pemberton and Beryl Fleming and another humorous, nostalgic piece from Doreen Friend. And more. There was good advice, too, from Patrick Forsyth on the value of deadlines, even if self-imposed. (Thank you, Patrick: I will send off my play to a publisher this month, not at some vague date in the future!) So much to enjoy, so much to make us proud of our Society! Mary Rensten
So sad... I just read in the Spring issue of The Woman Writer about Wendy Hughes passing, and wanted to extend my condolences to her family and friends. Pamela Birley has written a wonderful obituary. I was living in West Sussex so I used to know Wendy well. She was a good friend and as Pamela said, always smiling despite her illness. So I just wanted to pay tribute. Sadly we lost touch after I moved to Singapore. With sympathy,
It was heartening to see a larger attendance at this year’s spring meeting in Chichester, and to welcome two non members who, we hope, will join us in the future. The morning session was devoted to an animated discussion of the future format and venue for our meetings. The St Richard’s Parish Room is adequate and is near public transport and parking as well as being very reasonable to hire. However, several members felt it would be nice if we could find somewhere that could provide food and more comfortable surroundings. I had already investigated a few places in Chichester which had either proved too expensive for our small group or were not sufficiently accessible for those without their own transport. (Some of us have mobility problems). Pamela and Ginny made several suggestions and offered to investigate before our autumn meeting. Discussing the format for future meetings it was queried whether we always need a speaker – meeting up and talking about writing are the main aims of getting
Josephine Chia
Change of address Will members please ensure you notify the Membership Secretary of your change of address, telephone number or email address so that we can keep our records up to date. 6
Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Society news together. Several people said they would like more reading and appraisal of their work or workshops on various aspects of writing. No decisions were made but it is hoped that Pamela, Ginny and I will come up with a plan before we need to organise the autumn meeting. Our afternoon speaker was member, Margaret Mounsdon, who gave a talk on Pocket Novels. She has had considerable success with these – 34 titles to date – and her latest, The Jade Turtle, is now available. She showed several examples of the genre, short novellas which are published by D C Thomson’s My Weekly and People’s Friend magazines. They are published fortnightly and sold in W H Smith and supermarkets. Writers receive a one-off payment and no royalties. But the writer retains the copyright and can then sell the title on to the Large Print publishers, also for a one-off payment. The large print titles go in to public libraries and become eligible for Public Lending Right so can prove to be a ‘nice little earner’ as they say. Margaret gave some tips on getting your manuscript accepted. Don’t waste words. Strong characters. A sympathetic main character. Your story can be drama, mystery, romance or historical. Your heroine must achieve her goal. The baddie must get his come-uppance. Thank you to all for helping with the washing up and putting the chairs away. I look forward to seeing you all in the autumn. Roberta (Robbie) Grieve Note from the Editor: Margaret Mounsdon has written a very interesting article about Pocket Novels – you’ll find it on page 24.
Meet our poetry judge Kate Potts’ debut pamphlet Whichever Music (tall-lighthouse, 2008) was a Poetry Book Society choice and was shortlisted for a Michael Marks Award. Her first full-length collection is Pure Hustle (Bloodaxe Books, 2011). Her second collection, Feral, sets out to explore and trouble the boundary between ‘animal’ and ‘human’. Feral is a Poetry Book Society recommendation and was also a poetry book of the month in The Telegraph, where Tristram Fane-Saunders described the book as ‘musical, joyously weird, and filled with moments of pure pleasure’. Kate’s poetry and critical prose has appeared in publications including Poetry, The Poetry Review, Ploughshares, The Best British Poetry and The Forward Book of Poetry. She has performed her work at venues including The British Library, Cheltenham Literature Festival, Rich Mix, Somerset House,Vault Festival of Theatre and Wilton’s Music Hall. Kate teaches poetry and creative writing for the University of Oxford, Middlesex University, and Royal Holloway, freelances as a mentor, editor, and events producer, and works for an independent publisher. She has been awarded two Arts Council England grants and a Hawthornden Fellowship. She is co-director of site-specific poetry organisation Somewhere in Particular and a member of cross-arts practice-based research committee Generative Constraints. Entry details are on page 27.
The Woman Writer Summer 2019
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Society news Tea & Tour at the House of Lords At the beginning of the year we promised members that we were planning some exciting events to celebrate our 125th Anniversary. Those who were able to attend the 125th Anniversary Lunch at Stationers’ Hall will no doubt agree that the day was a great success. Following on from those celebrations, we have moved our AGM from the National Liberal Club, where it was to be a somewhat quiet affair this year (following one of our normal Council Meetings). However, as I have said in my Chair types on page 4, I felt my successor to the Chair, Rebecca Harding, deserved something a little bit more special. We are now holding our AGM at the House of Lords, followed by a ‘Tea and Tour’ event, hosted by our President, Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham, Floella Benjamin. Members and guests should arrive at the Black Rod’s Garden Entrance at 1.15pm to allow time to get through security and up to Committee Room G for around 1.301.45pm. The AGM will start promptly at 2.00pm and will last approximately one hour. Following the AGM, from 3.00pm, there will be a buffet style tea with sandwiches, small cakes, and scones with cream and jam, together with a choice of tea, coffee and soft drinks. During the tea, groups of up to 12 people at a time can be taken on a mini-tour of part of the House of Lords. The room is booked until 5.30pm for those who want to stay and mingle with friends, and to allow sufficient time for the tours. Tickets will be issued for this event and it is vital that you bring your ticket with you, along with photo ID to gain entry into the House of Lords, where you will need to pass through their security system – including bag checks. 8
Committee Room G will hold up to 40 people, so book early as this has to 125 be on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. We cannot accept late bookings, or people paying on the door. Tickets cost £28.50 for members, and £30 for guests. Please following the instructions on the application form on page 13.
swwj society of women writers and journalists
Please Note: Photo ID should be either a passport or photo driving licence. It is important to bring your ticket with you, otherwise you will not be admitted.
SWWJ welcomes new members FULL MEMBERSHIP Jenny Worstall, Croydon Jenny has written two novels with a strong musical connection. She has had many short stories published, as well as a pocket novel. Jane Fookes, St Albans Jane is a career journalist, and has been an editor and features editor for NDCS Magazine and Update and Jigsaw magazines. She now writes plays, quite a few of which have been performed. Beryl P Brown, Manningtree Beryl is a published short story writer. She also writes articles and has been published in Australia. Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Society news Southern Region Anniversary Meeting Date: Wednesday 16th October Time: 12 noon – 4pm Venue: Chichester Yacht Club, Birdham Road, PO20 7EJ Our next Southern Regional Meeting will be a departure from our usual style of gathering – a lunch with an inspirational speaker at the elegant Chichester Yacht Club. This will be the penultimate event in our year of 125th Anniversary celebrations and we wanted to do something very special for all our members. We hope our regular attendees, other members from outside our region and those who could not attend the celebratory lunch in London, will welcome the chance to get together for a gathering in the lovely surroundings of the Yacht Club overlooking the water. It is a light, modern building with spectacular views, surrounded by lawns and decking. Guests will be most welcome and we also hope some of the Yacht Club members will decide to join us to learn more about our wonderful Society. SWWJ member, Ginny Vere Nicoll has kindly agreed to be our speaker. Her talk, entitled ‘The Importance of Location’, will draw on her phenomenal success of single-handedly
marketing her books all over the UK, Europe and beyond! The Yacht Club is three or four miles from the town centre, but we can arrange transport (about £5 pp) from the Chichester bus and railway stations if requested. A regular bus service is also available to the end of the short level walk alongside the pretty canal to the Yacht Club – bring your bus passes! For those travelling by car there is ample free parking at the club. Please let me know if you need help with transport or whether you could assist in picking people up from the station. MENU Main course – choose from chicken and mushroom pie, mushroom stroganoff or fish pie. Dessert – Apple pie, fruit crumble or bread and butter pudding. Cost: £25.00 to include coffee and mints. Please let Roberta know ASAP if you would like to attend – Email: robgrieve@msn.com – Tel: 01243 554647. Send cheques, made payable to SWWJ, to Roberta Grieve at 49 The Millers,Yapton, Arundel BN18 0LE. Tickets will not be issued, but an acknowledgement can be given by email. No refunds after 9th October. Please inform Roberta of any food allergies. We hope as many of you as possible will join us at what we hope will become our regular venue for future meetings and workshops – can’t you just picture our summer meetings?!
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Society news 125th Anniversary Christmas Tea
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swwj You may not have heard of Detective Chief Inspector Jackie Malton. Well, here is a surprise: Jackie was the inspiration for Helen Mirren's lead role of DCI Jane Tennison in the multi award-winning drama series, Prime Suspect, written by Lynda La Plante. The exciting news is that Jackie has kindly agreed to be the speaker at our 125th Anniversary Christmas Tea on December 5th. Born in 195l, the daughter of an Associated Newspapers Executive, Jackie grew up in Lincolnshire and Leicestershire. She was a tomboy and as a 10-year-old became fascinated by Elizabeth Fry, the prison reformer, this inspired her to join the Leicestershire police force. She worked in the macho world of the Murder Squad, Fraud Squad and the Flying Squad – where she was the only woman among 40 men. Policewomen came in for a great deal of 'stick' in those days but, being openly gay, she joked that, "At least I could not be accused of sleeping my way to the top!" She was also the brave whistle-blower against police corruption in the 1980s – shades of the recent BBC series Line of Duty. But, exciting as that may be, what has the police force to do with the SWWJ? The answer is that after 15 years' work with La Plante and her retirement from the Met in 1997, Jackie has gone on to pursue a successful career as a script consultant and has worked on a number of television crime drama series including: The Bill, Cracker, Band of Gold, and more recently the documentaries of Dark Son and The Real Prime Suspect. Linda La Plant said of her: "Jackie Malton is the most important woman I have ever met," and the late Claire Raynor once declared, "Jackie is a crime writer's dream.” 10 society of women writers and journalists
Jackie Malton
Her prodigious achievements also include several degrees, not least an MA in Creative Writing – her dissertation became the play Be Mine, which was aired on Radio 4's Play For Today. An MSc in Addiction Psychology has enabled her to work as a prison counsellor, helping many alcoholic offenders to reform and, one could say, continuing the work of Elizabeth Fry. This all sounds rather tough and serious but, when I interviewed Jackie, I found her to be warm, sensitive and amusing company. And finally, by the time you meet ex-Detective Chief Inspector Jackie Malton on December 5th, she will have been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Applied Sciences by London Southbank University – this becomes official in October. You heard it here first! See you all at Christmas. Pamela Payne
Don’t miss out! The booking form for this special Christmas Tea can be found on page 38. Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Obituary
Jocelyn Glegg – 1924-2019 Mary Rensten pays tribute to her friend Jocelyn Glegg,Vice President, former Chair and Editor of The Woman Journalist, died in April, at her home in Cambridge; she was 95.
I
first met Jocelyn in a pub in Covent Garden in October 1976, not long after I joined the Society. I had been directed there, as being the place where SWWJ members congregated for 'a bite to eat' prior to the monthly Lunchtime Meetings in nearby King Street. With much trepidation, I stepped over the pub's threshold. I paused, unsure where to go or what to do next. “SWWJ?” called a cheery voice from somewhere to my left. “Yes,” I called out. I could just about see a hand waving in the gloomy, smoke-filled interior. Slowly, as my eyes became adjusted after the bright Autumn sunshine, I made my way towards the voice and the hand. “Come and join us.” I must have looked anxious. “There's no need to be nervous; we're a friendly lot.” It was Jocelyn who spoke, then introduced me to the other ladies. We called ourselves 'ladies' in those days; our names in The Woman Journalist were often prefaced by our titles, but there was no stuffiness or formality here in the pub. I met Pauline Graham, Jean Bowden, Eve Blizzard and several others. Jocelyn was a natural leader. She was a great Chairman and a superb Editor; no typo ever got past her. We shared a love of the theatre – she was the judge when I entered a Society playwriting competition – and surprisingly, as I had tended to see Jocelyn as a 'grande dame', we found we both supported an unlikely political party!
The Woman Writer Summer 2019
She loved the SWWJ, promoting it whenever she could. Radio was her métier, used to great effect in 1994, when she broadcast from the Cambridge radio station during our Centenary conference. We sat in the dining hall of Newnham College, listening with pride and admiration as Jocelyn spoke – and my goodness, she did speak well – about the SWWJ. She dressed well, too, believing one should show respect for the office one held, particularly when she was the Chairman. In later years she was unable to attend our London functions regularly. The last time I saw her was at the Life Writing Award presentation in 2012. She had travelled, with difficulty, from Cambridge, for what she saw as a very special event, reaching out beyond our members and also attracting younger people. “So important,” she said, “for the continuing life of the Society.” We owe a lot to Jocelyn; she set our standards high. ******** Sylvia Kent very kindly gave me permission to quote from her recent WW interview with Jocelyn, for which I thank her. However, if I had picked out bits here and there they would not have done justice to Sylvia's article, nor to Jocelyn's remarkable life, which included four and a half years in the Royal Army Education Corps in WWII. Instead, I refer you to The Woman Writer Summer 2018 (p24 & 25). Please do read it; there's a message to all of us in the final paragraph. 11
Members’ news
Success! Well done! Dorothy Pope was a runner up in The Oldie’s monthly poem competition with her poem Exhibition.
A special night Gail Aldwin recently entertained an audience with stories of her reading and writing experiences. World Book Night is a national celebration that takes place on 23rd April every year. The purpose is to recognise the difference reading makes to people’s lives. This year at Wareham Library in Dorset, Gail Aldwin (shown on the right), author of fiction and poetry, shared her experiences in moving from a child who was a reluctant reader to becoming a published author. Gail says: “Due to intermittent hearing loss, learning to read through phonics, where sounds are matched to letters, was difficult and reading became very hard work. By the age of ten I could decode a text but it took several more years to see books as a source of
interest and pleasure.” For Gail, the turning point in this journey was reading her elder sister’s copy of Valley of the Dolls, a book she certainly wasn't meant to be reading with its story of young women using capsules known as ‘dolls’ to help them survive in the entertainment industry. In terms of her writing journey, Gail discovered a box of letters she had written during travels in her twenties and thirties and this sparked an interest in writing. After several attempts at completing a publishable novel, Gail struck upon the idea of a child lost in France. The String Games is a comingof-age novel that was released in May 2019 by Victorina Press. The evening was organised by staff at Wareham Library who supported the Q & A with Gail. Everyone who came to the event was invited to join a quiz which included questions about books selected for distribution to a range of settings as part of World Book Night. There was also a book swap to facilitate the sharing of favourite novels and non-fiction books. You can find out more about Gail and her debut novel The String Games by visiting her blog https://gailaldwin.com or find her on Twitter @gailaldwin.
Bat out of hell Mari Wallace has a story coming out in Sasee, an American magazine for women, in their July issue. The theme for this issue is ‘Vacations’ and her piece is called My Funniest Vacation, which has the subtitle: The Holiday from Hell. Mari says: “This is what it felt like. You had to laugh in order not to cry. No hot water. No shower or bath. No cooker. And a bat roosting over our bed! It was a 'friend's' cottage in France, which he actually thought was full of charm! 12
Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Application form
AGM and Tea &Tour at the House of Lords Monday 9th September 2019 House of Lords, Committee Room G, Houses of Parliament, Parliament Square, London SW1A 0PW – Black Rod’s Garden Entrance Arrive 1.15pm for 2pm start (Application form can be photocopied) Name ……………………………………………….
Membership No. ……………
Address …………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………….. No. of tickets for AGM and Tea & Tour @ £28.50 ………… Guests @ £30................. No. of tickets for AGM only (no cost) ....................... Cheque amount ……… Name of guest(s) ………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………. Any dietary requests. (Please ensure you list all dietary requests. These cannot be provided without notice.) …………………………………………………………………………………………….
BOOKINGS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 27th AUGUST. There can be no refunds after this date. For tickets please send the completed form with any dietary requests, together with a stamped SAE (letter or A5) and cheque made payable to SWWJ, to: Janice Grande, 4 Fraser Close, Laindon, Basildon, Essex SS15 6SU. Please supply your email address below if you would like confirmation of booking before tickets are sent out. Please note: Photo ID Must be provided (see page 8) ......................................................................................................................................................... The Woman Writer Summer 2019
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Poets’ corner
Lighter Look on Life by Dorothy Pope
V
erse in contrast to poetry has only one aim and effect – amusement. Little prose ado this time then. I just offer some bits of verse of mine: a limerick, a nursery rhyme of sorts, a cautionary tale, and one, a paracrostic, for which Andrew Motion, the last Poet Laureate, gave me the idea. He said once that whenever he closes his front door on leaving the house, he imagines his furniture is relieved to see the back of him.
Grammar Limerick
Chorister Someone had told the little creep that choir boys with unbroken voices, especially if they are blond, are known as having angel faces. He practised looking like a saint with uplifted countenance and holy, gazed straight into Choirmaster’s eyes, his saintliness for teacher solely and when sir made his little jokes and other boys laughed dutifully, this one sustained his full on grin, till teacher saw it, beautifully.
You lied or you lay or you laid? Let me speedily come to your aid. You laid tables and cables and plans, lay in bed or your bath or on sands and you lied about having got laid.
He carolled every final note a fraction of a second longer so his voice was distinctly heard in each hymn, anthem, prayer and song. A
How Dumb Can You Get?
Holiday
Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall. Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. Well, I ask, what did he expect? Eggs have no right sitting erect with no cup or nest for support. Having no flat base you'd have thought he'd have utilised better sense, known a wall (or gate or a fence) is no place for parking, an oeuf being one continuous curve. And, of course, he's brittle as hell clad in that impractical shell. Rather save your sympathy for me Rockabye-ing Baby in a tree.
The family’s away. Hooray! We can play! Each spider and flea Feels suddenly free And becomes acrobatic. Mice swing from the attic. Opportunist beds Laugh and stand on their heads. Yelling pans will beat time, Slamming doors, clocks that chime Adding rhythm. In pairs Waltz Chippendale chairs, Abandoned, unchecked.
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tenor, brighter than the rest, determined someone should take action, kicked little soddy in the throat to universal satisfaction.
Yet they never suspect. Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Poets’ corner The Great Wave
Doris Corti recently attended a poetry weekend at a hotel with other published poets. While Seeing it now, in the gallery where I am alone, there she took part in a its roar in my ears echoes through my nerves. competition – the theme was to I sense the touch of its salty tongue, spume of froth poised. write a poem about a painting; I am a white speck observing this domination of water Doris chose The Great Wave, by this attempt to rise above landscape, Hokusai. She was delighted when as it towers to deflect the power of a mountain. she won first prize. We are pleased to include it in this issue. No denying its magnificence, it crowds me, roars in my head this wave of such dimensions, unbelievable. Doris has been commissioned There are no seabirds, they are violated; hearing by a Religious House, for poems the seabed as it is pounded, ripped, clawed they are gone to go with photos of native far into the land, away from this ferocity, flowers in their gardens, and has as like a dragon it rears, towers above the small boats sent a number of poems to be from which the moon white faces of fishermen peer. included in a book they are publishing. She has also been I am afraid, alone, like the fishermen I cower. published in Acumen with a This wave is out to prove it is mightier than us, poem called Towards the Light. mightier than Fuji white tipped in the background. And yet, I need to look closely, Finally, Doris leads the note the ecstasy in the force of its flinging, the vibrancy Huddersfield U3A ‘Writing of spray, its pulsating power - then poetry as an art form’ and has helped them to publish Poems observe Mount Fuji, from the Third Age: An Anthology – as white tipped it dominates, now available on Amazon. magnificent. by Doris Corti
Poets’ Day at the National Liberal Club 1 Whitehall Place, Westminster, London SW1A 2HE
Thursday 24th October – 11am - 4pm – Lawrence Robson Room Dorothy Pope will be leading the event. Please come equipped with pen and paper for two writing exercises, one poem of your own to share for criticism, and one famous poem you think the rest of us would like to know. Members and guests welcome.
Cost £15, including free tea and biscuits served at noon Please bring a packed lunch Please note: no coffee or perfume in the room please, out of necessary respect for Dorothy’s allergies. The room only seats about twelve so hurry to make a firm booking. See page 27 for booking form
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Overseas members Doreen Friend welcomes you to a fascinating trip around the world, courtesy Lesley (Geneva), of Phine (Singapore), Shradda (India) and Jenna (France).
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Lesley Lawson Botez – Geneva, Switzerland As professor of design, I am one of the initiators of EU Business School's first design forum, which was held at the beautiful Société de Lecture in Geneva's Old Town, on Friday 3rd May. Speakers from Vacheron Constantin, the ICRC and Parenti Design among others, talked about how design contributes to business, creating products, processes and profiles; how it is both a transversal function across all staff support functions, and a line function, where looks lead and influence that bottom line.
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Josephine Chia – Singapore The heat here has been blistering at a whopping 35 degrees, so my brain has been well-cooked! I recently gave a talk at a five-star hotel in Singapore, Shagrila Hotel. The events manager wanted me to talk about my books and my Peranakan culture, and specifically on how we make our floral potpourri, which we call Bunga Rampay. In my language, Bunga
means flower and rampay means a potpourri collection of different flowers. I mentioned my novel, When A Flower Dies, as the main character in the book makes and sells Bungay Rampay. It was a Tea & Chat event so afternoon tea was served with delicacies of Peranakan desserts. After the talk and Q&A, many people bought my books, brought in by my publisher. This is also how I get my income and can be a full-time writer as I am paid for these events. This is just for sharing to show how it is possible to continue to do what I love, ie writing, but with supplementary events. Warmest regards, Phine
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Shraddha Sankulkar – India My articles are read in the UK and the US besides them being read in India. I have had 105 articles published since January 2014, and I look forward to releasing a book based on my articles. Thanks for the efforts that you do for SWWJ.
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Jenna Hines – France Jenna sent some interesting background information about herself: In 1998, my husband John was browsing through a magazine looking for a fridge for my father and spotted a donkey for sale. I said, “If we see him I will want him. What will we do with a donkey; where will we put him?” 16
Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Overseas members We lived in an old cottage with no land and knew nothing about keeping a donkey! He was a forlorn looking creature, standing in his own muck, tied to a drainpipe. Panic set in, we didn’t have anywhere to keep him. As we walked away, he turned his head and gave me a pleading look, as if to say, “please don’t leave me.” He looked so sad. I knew we had made the right decision. On a cold Sunday afternoon we visited several farms and as dusk was falling we found a place with, ‘stable and graze’. The man handed me the reigns, I felt a rush of love for the chocolate brown donkey we named Toffee. He stood firm not wanting to move; we got him in a bed of straw and made a fuss of him. Toffee hadn’t been ‘cut’. Male donkeys, known as Jacks, are recognised for being vocal and frisky around female donkeys if they aren’t castrated. So, Toffee had the op.
We bought a smallholding with four acres of land outside Hay-on-Wye. We wanted a donkey to keep Toffee company, and found a suitable companion but the donkey was very sick; he had been badly mistreated; Tuppence and Toffee bonded. Tuppence had all our love and attention, but it took years to gain his trust. The farmers next door had two baby goats, going to market. We rescued them calling The Woman Writer Summer 2019
the billy goat Fritz and his sister Mimi. Fritz loved Toffee. To reach high branches of trees, he stood on his back! Plus we had four cats.
In 2003, I became unwell, so we moved to France. The goats, cats and donkeys travelled to our new home and were very happy. We lost the goats and cats through illness and old age, but will never regret that January morning, when John, looking for a fridge, found a Donkey. DID YOU KNOW? 1. Donkeys originate from the Middle East and Africa. 2. They can hear another donkey for 60 miles. 3. A miniature doesn't grow above 36 inches. 4. The baby of a female horse and a male donkey is a mule. 5. The gestation period for a donkey is one year. 6. Donkeys can remember where they went, or a donkey they met 25-years before. 7. A donkey can live for more than 40 years. 8. Donkeys are herd animals and mate for life. 9 At the first sign of danger the leader faces the threat, allowing the rest to escape. 10. Donkeys don't have waterproof coats. 11. They are vegetarians. 12. Their favourite pastime is rolling around on the ground. 13. China has the highest number of donkeys. 14. In Britain it is the law for donkeys to hold a passport! 17
Fiction focus
Who do you think you are? by Vivien Brown
I
t may come as a surprise, but we don’t all get (or want) to see our own name in great big letters alongside our published stories or on the covers of our novels. No matter how proud of our work we undoubtedly are, there are many reasons why an author may prefer to adopt a pseudonym. Your legal everyday name, the one you were born with or have acquired through marriage, might not be up to the job. For many years I wrote as Vivien Hampshire. I changed to Brown after my re-marriage, preferring not to carry on using my ex-husband’s name on novels written as the ‘new me’ and long after the divorce. Perhaps you are plain Jane Smith – a name that has stood you in good stead in life, but is unlikely to stand out in the crowd and grab readers’ attention. Perhaps your name has foreign origins or is hard to pronounce or spell. Who can honestly say they have no problems with getting Marina Lewycka right, no matter how much you may have loved her book? Perhaps your name has been used before – by another author you don’t
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want to be mistaken for. Or it may just lack that special memorable ‘authorly’ ring. Only you know what image you are trying to project and whether you are prepared to drop your real name in favour of another that might help you to attract the right readership and/or boost sales. If you are writing sci fi or thrillers, for instance, it might be best not to use too ‘girly’ a name. An action thriller or horror story written by someone called Lulubelle Pink may not appeal to the potential readership, especially men, who could well decide not to pick up the book at all, let alone read it. And what reader of gentle romances will be drawn in by an author called Hannibal Hardnutt? (If these people really exist, I do apologise!) Female authors, of course, used to hide behind male names (the Bronte sisters submitting work as Currer, Ellis and Acton Bell, and Mary Ann Evans becoming George Eliot), back in the days when it was the only way to be taken seriously or expect to be published at all. The world has moved on, and there is rarely a need to go that far, although, conversely, there are several men these days who use female pen names when writing love stories for the women’s magazine market or Mills & Boon! Not going quite so far as pretending to be men, some women writers do opt to use their initials rather than an obviously female first name. P D James and J D Robb are notable examples, as is J K Rowling who dropped the name Joanne in order to disguise her gender and thereby not deter boys from giving her wizard-themed novels a try. All a bit academic now, as the Harry Potter books have been so successful that she is known and recognised worldwide! Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Fiction focus Changing genre, or writing simultaneously in more than one, is also a very good reason to adopt different names. Did you know that Barbara Vine is also Ruth Rendell, the aforementioned J D Robb is actually a pseudonym of Nora Roberts, or that Madeleine Wickham and Sophie Kinsella are one and the same? They switched between names for a reason – they wanted to write in a different genre or style. Once your readers have enjoyed your romantic comedies or cosy crime novels they will not want to find themselves faced with something else – a graphic futuristic fantasy, terrifying ghost story or children’s book – because you decided to carry on using the same author name. Branding is vitally important these days, when just the colours, font or illustration used on a cover say so much about what’s inside – and your author name is part of that marketing strategy. Don’t confuse your readers, or you may lose them. But what if there’s another reason you want to hide your identity behind a pseudonym? Writers of erotic books will often choose a new name, partly to fit the genre but maybe also so their friends and family need never know what they are writing! Not that there’s any shame in erotica, but the old saying ‘I wouldn’t want my mum to read it’ may well apply! The same goes for tell-all exposés or fly-on-the-wall blogs based on an author’s insider knowledge of a profession – the police or politics, for example – where keeping their name out of the limelight and their bosses in the dark might also mean keeping their job or staying out of jail! Ghost writing is similar in many ways, as anonymity is essential to success. When a famous person can attract the readers and guarantee sales but can’t actually write, in steps the ghost writer who does the work, takes the fee but forfeits the right to see their own name on the cover. The Woman Writer Summer 2019
And lastly, of course, we do have to consider where our published novels might sit on a library or bookshop shelf. Surnames starting with an A will certainly come first, but what if first means top left and so high up that your books are almost out of reach? Or Z, where someone may have to bend down or kneel on the carpet to find you? No wonder so many authors pick names that sit somewhere nicely in the middle, and preferably at eye level. Will any of these choices or changes of name actually influence a reader when picking up your book? Do readers care, or notice, or even remember the author’s name, as long as they love the story? Publishers will say yes, but it’s all debatable, of course. In the end, it’s your name on the cover, so if you’re not happy with it, for whatever reason, change it. Getting your novel noticed … that’s the name of the game!
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125th Anniversary
Celebrating 125 years in style by Janice Grande
A
bright May morning greeted us as we entered the iconic Stationers’ Hall – the setting for the Society of Women Writers and Journalists’ 125th Anniversary Celebratory Luncheon. Members, guests and patrons were welcomed with a drinks reception and the opportunity to peruse the Past, Present and Future displays, showcasing the Society’s history and achievements since its founding in 1894. One of the boards showed our vision for continued progress in the years to come; ensuring the core values of the Society are reflected in its endeavours as we go forward in the 21st century. Our Archivist, Sylvia Kent, listened to the appreciative remarks about the displays by longer serving members who reminisced with stories about some of our past members; and she enjoyed a convivial chat with our Patron, Lord Stockton, before we adjourned to the magnificent Livery Hall, which was transformed into a first-class dining room.
Barbara Field-Holmes gave a warm welcome to guests.
Our Chairman, Barbara Field-Holmes, welcomed us all and introduced our President, Floella Benjamin, The Rt Hon Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham OBE DL, who gave a passionate and inspiring speech reminding us that we have an opportunity to use our talents to help change attitudes globally by encouraging children and young people to express themselves through the written word. Mary Rensten received her award from Floella.
Left to right: Sylvia Kent, Dee La Vardera, Lord Stockton.
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Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
125th Anniversary
Pamela Payne introduced Kate Mosse.
A delicious three-course lunch was served amid the buzz of friendly conversation. Coffee followed, and Barbara announced a Special Achievement Award was to be presented. Floella took great delight in presenting the award to a surprised and delighted Mary Rensten, in recognition of her long-standing support for the Society and her work with Drama and SCRIPTORA. Mary graciously accepted the award and gave a short speech of thanks.
Our guest speaker, Kate Mosse.
Pamela Payne introduced our guest speaker, author Kate Mosse, who gave an inspirational, and often humorous, insight into her writing method; tuning in to the landscape around her before characters present themselves and the story begins to
Floella Benjamin
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125th Anniversary In creating the Society of Women Journalists, Joseph Snell Wood laid the foundation for the Society of Women Writers and Journalists that has proved to be an enduring success. Our thanks go to Livi Gee Photography for the wonderful photos taken on the day. If you would like to buy a print please email Olivia Gerard at olivia_g_v_g@outlook.com or ring her on 07392 852387.
unfold. Her latest book The Burning Chambers is set in Carcassonne in 1562, and Kate said that researching an historical period can take up to three years, whilst the writing of the novel can be achieved in about eight months. A question and answer session rounded off Kate’s talk. Barbara presented Floella and Kate with engraved paperweights as a token of the Society’s appreciation for their support. We were fortunate to have some sponsorship from author Ken Follett and from Amanda Ruggles on behalf of the Society’s accountants, Gilberts Chartered Accountants. Floella then gave an empowering closing speech and there was time for mingling and networking before we collected our goodie bags as we departed Stationers’ Hall. Kate Mosse signed books
Top: Rebecca Harding on the left (Vice Chair) and Laura Gerard. Middle: Our social media queen,Vivien Brown, busy at work. Bottom: The magnificent Stationers’ Hall.
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Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Agenda for AGM
Annual General Meeting Monday 9th September 2019 To be held in Committee Room G, The House of Lords, Parliament Square, London SW1A 0PW (Nearest tube: Westminster) Arrive 1.15pm for AGM @ 2.00pm (Light refreshments of sandwiches/biscuits/cakes/scones/tea/coffee served from 3.00pm, followed by tours.)
AGM AGENDA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Welcome to Members Apologies for absence Minutes of Annual General Meeting held on Thursday 28th June 2018 Matters arising Chairman’s report Treasurer’s report Appointment of Auditors Election of Council Officers 2019/2020
Officers offering themselves for election: Honorary Secretary Honorary Treasurer 9
Janice Grande Benita Cullingford
Election of Council Members 2019/2020
Agreeing to stand for election for a period of one year: Pamela Birley Rebecca Harding Vivien Brown Michelle Harriman Carol Cannavan Sylvia Kent Barbara Field-Holmes Pamela Payne Doreen Friend 10 11
Nomination for Vice President for services to SWWJ Any other business
By order of the Council
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Pocket Novels
A great opportunity for writers by Margaret Mounsdon
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have been writing pocket novels since 2002 and my 34th, The Jade Turtle, was published on 30th May. I decided to submit to DC Thomson after I read you do not need an agent and can approach them direct. People’s Friend and My Weekly Pocket Novels are published fortnightly so there is a constant demand. DC Thomson loves new writers and are tremendously encouraging so why not give it a go? Pocket novels are designed to fit into a pocket or handbag and are sold in Smith’s,
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Sainsbury’s and Tesco’s to mention a few, so they have high market penetration. To submit a pocket novel you need to send a synopsis and the first three chapters to enable the editors to get a feel of the story. If they like it they will ask to see the rest. The People’s Friend editor is Tracey Steel tsteel@dctmedia.co.uk and the My Weekly editor is Maggie Swinburne, maggieswinburne@dcthomson.co.uk Keep your synopsis to one page. Introduce the main characters; the problems that arise from their relationship and any other plot highlights you think worth a mention. You don’t need to go into too much detail but the editors want to know if the story shows promise. If you are seeking inspiration study the current market. Read as many pocket novels as you can before attempting to write one. Your story must reflect the values of the magazines, something you will get a feel of if you do your market research. People’s Friend requires 37,000 words and My Weekly 50,000 words. The reason for the difference in lengths is because People’s Friend uses larger print. Maggie Swinburne is currently looking for drama, mystery, adventure and romance, so there is plenty of opportunity to write something of your choice. Tracey Steel is looking for cosy murder mysteries. DC Thomson accepts historicals and crime. Regency and Second World War stories are also popular. The requirements change from time to time so it is important to check the website.
Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Pocket Novels I like strong female characters in my stories and include a range of ages across the generations, and people from different social backgrounds and situations, as I feel they reflect modern life. DC Thomson requires a high standard of writing and convincing plots so please don’t think you can knock one out in an afternoon. That would be disrespectful to the readers and DC Thomson. Their readers like an escapist read, something that will leave the reader feeling good at the end of the story. There should be no violence, swear words or sex scenes. You must have engaging characters with whom your reader can empathise, and you must enjoy writing about them. If your heart is not in it this will show. You cannot waste words in a pocket novel. Keep the action moving. You need a strong story line and a good theme e.g. ambition, dedication, revenge, family loyalty – a problem that has to be solved in either 37,000 or 50,000 words. If you are not sure how your story is progressing read it aloud. The spoken word can show up inconsistencies in your work. Once completed, put the manuscript aside. Glaring plot holes will be more apparent if you re-read the work after a break. If your work shows promise you may be asked to re-write. Don’t ignore this advice. It means you are in with a chance and there is no better feeling in the world than receiving an email in your inbox from the editor saying they love your story and they want to buy it. After D C Thomson have published your pocket novel you are free to sell other rights – Large Print, Ebook, Foreign, etc, but I would suggest you check the situation with them first. I always do in case the conditions have changed.
The Woman Writer Summer 2019
I sell my Large Print rights to Thorpe. These books have an ISBN number so you can register for Public Lending Rights and with the ALCS Authors’ Licensing and Collecting Society. PLR is paid once a year usually in February and ALCS once a year in March so over the years they can be a source of regular income. Pocket novels have given me confidence as a writer, and when people ask how many books I have had published it always gives me a thrill to say thirty-four. Full details of my books are on my blog margaretsromanceworld.blogspot.com and I can be contacted on twitter @SwwjMargaret and on my website: www.margaretmounsdon.co.uk Good luck!
NEXT DRAMA WORKSHOP The next Drama Workshop will be held on Saturday 7th September 2019 at:
Helios Centre, 16 Judd street London WC1H 9NS 11am - 4pm Do remember that scripts must be sent to Martin Cort at least 10 days prior to the Workshop. Send your scripts to Martin at:
Flat F Kingston Mansions, 147 Clapham Road, London SW9 0HP
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SWWJ Competition
The Elizabeth Longford Poetry Competition 2020 Theme: Food Growing, cooking, eating, tasting, sharing… from picnics to banquets… Poems in any form or style; maximum 40 lines
Judge: Kate Potts First prize: £100 – Second: £50 – Third: £25 Entry fee: £5 per entry or £12 for three entries. Awards will be presented at The Spring Prize-giving Tea in London on 19th March 2020 Send your entries to:Vivien Brown, 16 Abingdon Close, Uxbridge, UB10 0BU Cheques payable to SWWJ Closing date: 6th January 2020 – Please make sure that you check the RULES below before you submit your entry SWWJ COMPETITION RULES Please read these rules carefully. Failure to comply could lead to your entry being invalidated. 1. SWWJ competitions are open to Full and Associate Members only. Unless specifically stated, Friends of the Society, Writer’s Debut members and non-members are not eligible to enter. 2. Please ensure that any maximum word or line length set for the competition is strictly adhered to. Shortlisted entrants may be asked to supply an electronic copy of their entry so word count can be verified before prizes are awarded. 3. Your membership number (NOT your name) and the title of your work should appear on every page of your entry. Please number the pages. 4. Please type or print on one side of plain white A4 paper only. No handwritten entries please. 5. Please use double spacing for all prose entries. Poems may be spaced as the poet requires. 6. Every entry must have a detachable cover sheet showing the title, your name, membership number, address, and email address and/or phone number so we can contact you. 7. Entries must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. Cheques to be made payable to SWWJ. A maximum of three entries per person to each competition is allowed. Sending cash is discouraged. 8. Entries received after the closing date may be disregarded with no return of fee. 9. If you would like to receive a copy of the judge’s report, please also enclose a self-addressed envelope of suitable size and bearing the correct postage. 10. Entries MUST NOT be previously published or have been read or performed in any public domain up to the closing date. They should not be currently entered into any other competition. 11. Please do not send your entry by recorded/special delivery or registered post. Enclose a stamped self-addressed postcard if you wish us to acknowledge its safe receipt. 12. Keep a copy of your work as the Society cannot be held responsible for the loss of your entry, in the post or otherwise. Manuscripts will not be returned after judging. 13. Cash prizes for winners and runners-up vary per competition and will be as advertised. 14. In the event of a large number of entries, or if the judge requests it, the Society reserves the right to appoint a shortlisting panel. 15. Please keep the prize-giving date free in your diary and book a ticket to attend if at all possible. If you are a winner, we would like to congratulate you and present your prize to you in person!
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Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
SWWJ Competition
Announcing our new open competition The Floella Benjamin Trophy ‘Children are our future’
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swwj society of women writers and journalists
To celebrate the SWWJ’s 125th anniversary and our ongoing 2019 theme ‘Past, Present and Future’ we are pleased to let members know about this special ‘paperless’ writing competition, named in honour of our President, Baroness Benjamin, and launched via social media on 1st May. This competition is open to ALL writers living in the UK and aged 18 or over. Current membership of the SWWJ is not a requirement. Look out for our competition announcements on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and please help us to spread the word by retweeting and sharing with as many writer friends, readers and writers groups as you can. THE PRIZE: Presentation of The Floella Benjamin trophy, £200, and one year’s (2020/21) membership of the Society at full, associate or friend level, appropriate to the winner’s writing experience. HOW TO ENTER: Write a short story, essay, article, poem, letter, interview, monologue or play with the theme ‘Children are our future.’ Maximum 500 words (poems max 40 lines). Judging and shortlisting by a panel of SWWJ readers, with Baroness Benjamin making the final choice. Only one entry per person. Entry fee £2.50. Closing date: 31st August 2019. Please note: The usual SWWJ competition rules do not apply. This is a paperless competition, promoted via social media and our website only. Entries by email, and entry fees payable via internet banking. No postal communications and no cheques please. Full details of how to submit and pay can be found on our website www.swwj.co.uk/competitions
Poets’ Day at the National Liberal Club 1 Whitehall Place, Westminster, London SW1A 2HE
Thursday 24th October – 11am - 4pm – Lawrence Robson Room (Booking form can be photocopied) Name ……………………………………………….
Membership No. ……………
Email …………………………………………………………………………………… No. of tickets @ £15 ……………
Cheque amount ………………
Please make cheques payable to SWWJ, and send to: Janice Grande, 4 Fraser Close, Laindon, Basildon, Essex SS15 6SU. An email confirmation will be sent. Please bring a packed lunch. Deadline for booking is 14th October. The Woman Writer Summer 2019
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Marketing
An offer you can refuse Patrick Forsyth comments on how to react to an offer to publish.
M
uch is written in a journal such as this (perhaps especially under the heading ‘marketing’), that might be said to involve the word struggle. The struggle to meet deadlines, get published, please editors, get paid – all are uncertain and all are time consuming. Sometimes the return, a small payment for a short article say, seems meagre. But sometimes things go well. Such may be a one-off; I once won a place on a writing course worth the best part of £500 for a fifty word short story; if I got £10 for every word I wrote I would be well pleased! Or you may be paid the “going rate” – whatever that is – and regard that as satisfactory. Nothing is forever though, and one of the best deals in terms of word
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count and money that I have had was with a magazine that closed down, taking my monthly column with it. Sometimes too, success may be a real surprise and, you know what, that can pose problems too. Again an example from my experience illustrates. I was sitting in an editor’s office. He had agreed I should write a book for them and when I asked if there would be an advance he named a figure three times my best hope. I was amazed – delighted. But, at the same time, I was immediately determined not to show it. Surely someone making such an offer would expect a professional writer to be used to such sums I thought. My reaction had to be impassive. I wanted to jump up and shout,
Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Marketing but I quelled all visible signs of delight and said in what I hoped was a matter of fact tone, “Right, that’s seems fine.” Mostly when writing something for someone for the first time you want to be commissioned again. And in this case I did not want my reaction to mean I got offered half as much on any repeat assignment. So don’t overdo the gratitude on acceptance. Think ahead, think quickly and save the ecstasy for later. Or maybe I should have asked for more. All such arrangements are negotiable: fees, advances, payment dates, the percentages involved in royalties. Also delivery dates, publication dates (remember it is better to be published at some times of year than others), word count, even whether you have an input into a book’s design or cover. And more no doubt. Sometimes the thrill of getting acceptance triggers an instant “yes”, terms are unthinkingly accepted lock, stock and barrel when there are matters better queried, discussed and, as I said, negotiated. Dare I say, just because many of those in government currently are not exhibiting signs of great negotiating skill doesn’t mean writers should not engage with the process. It is a bargaining process and a body of techniques (too many to list here) and one that may stand some study. For the moment, here, let me just emphasise the core point: think about what you are offered and, if necessary, resolve not to immediately say “thank you”, but rather “I think we should discuss that.” The best summing up of negotiation I have ever seen was from Annabel, aged six, who was quoted on the internet as saying: If you want a guinea pig, first you ask for a pony. What insight!
The Woman Writer Summer 2019
Photos from the Anniversary Lunch
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When I was not upon this page... Green fingers... by Doreen Friend When I was not upon the page I did a little part-time garden work. Some years ago I helped out a gardener working in gardens in and around north London. Looking after the garden, snipping, pruning, sowing and planting was something I took pleasure in, and only ever rushed when nipping in and out in between showers of rain. When muscles ached and legs became tired it was easy to down tools and stop for a mug of tea, a couple of chocolate biscuits and the chance to put my feet up for five minutes. Albeit not a professional plants-person I have plenty of experience with annuals, perennials, bulbs in pots, cuttings and seedlings, transplanting, begonias, rose bushes, fuchsias, geraniums, primula, dahlias and more. Often proudly surveying row upon row of plants with unpronounceable Latin names, all nicely standing to attention in their beds waiting for me to take care of them. When Charles, a professional gardener of my acquaintance, injured an arm, and asked me to help by driving his transit van from client to client, I jumped at the chance. “You won’t have to do anything, maybe just pull up a weed or two.” So, with that in mind plus the promise of coffee and cakes at the end of the week, I arrived at Charles’s home raring to go. Whether an area so minute there was little room for slugs and dandelions to flourish, or landscaped and planted with fruit trees and bushes, every garden had one thing in common. Every one was neglected: lawns overgrown, bushes twisted and tangled, roses wilting, plus an amazing assortment of animal doings. 30
Working with Charles meant that my horticultural ‘green’ fingers were often covered in mud and muck, grazed and scratched from getting caught on thorns when tugging out roots on thistles and nasty stinging leaves. Instead of pulling up ‘a weed or two’, my days included digging, shovelling, pruning, sweeping and chopping. Lawn mowing sounds nice when someone else is doing it, but trying to push an electric monstrosity on uneven ground over roots and broken branches was torture. But that was nothing compared to the horror of driving Charles from garden to garden. I am ambidextrous and never really got the hang of left and right. This is a necessity when at the wheel, particularly when manoeuvring around north London with an unhappy irate boss.
Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Around the regions News from Moonraker Country by Dee La Vardera It’s a lovely time of year to be out walking and taking photographs. It’s late spring, early summer as I write my column. I am spoilt by the beautiful Wiltshire landscape which surrounds me. What a colourful world: the newly-chalked white horse on the Cherhill downs demands attention; the patchworks of green grass and yellow oil-seed rape across fields dazzle the eye; and elegant racehorses from Beckhampton Stables, like exotic wasps, with their black and orange striped saddle blankets, exercise on the Marlborough downs. Everywhere hedges are full of flowering rowan, white clusters, to fend off witches, so they say; glimpses of rosy tipped crab apple buds, frothy flowers of the elder, and the last of the blackthorn flowers, which like a
Follow the SWWJ on Facebook! Members are invited to ‘socialise’ on the Society Facebook page. Check out swwj.facebook and ‘like’ the page. The Woman Writer Summer 2019
bit of chilly weather and, from a distance, themselves resemble falls of snow. And always the cherry trees, branches full of pink meringue blossom, set against blue sky or red brickwork as I walk through a Devizes churchyard. Petals gather underfoot, to disappear in an eye blink – a confetti spray, in a gust of wind, to gather again in some corner, kerb or gully. I look down and see my shadow cross the path, the line of pink petals caught in a ridge alongside the grass; the beauty of that moment captured for ever with a tap on my phone. I follow my shadow to see where else it goes. Dee's website: www.dewfall-hawk.com
Follow the SWWJ on Twitter! Find out about the latest news and events by following (and retweeting) @SWWJ. Help to spread the word about our Society! 31
Markets & Competitions Writing opportunities by Carol Cannavan Here’s a round-up of markets and writing competitions to keep you busy! Although every effort is made to gather correct information, it is down to you to contact individual publications/agencies and ask for their current writing guidelines and find out if any costs are involved. Good luck!
UK markets The History Press welcomes submissions from both new and established authors. If you have a great historical story to tell then they would love to hear from you. They review every proposal that they receive, although due to the high volume of submissions they cannot always reply to unsuccessful proposals. If they have not responded within six weeks it means they have decided not to take your proposal further. Full details are on their website. Website: www.thehistorypress.co.uk/ writing-for-us/
Overseas markets Rattle publishes unsolicited poetry and translations. General submissions are open year-round, always welcomed, and always free. Contributors to the print magazine receive $100 and a complimentary one-year subscription. Poems for ‘Online Only’ categories receive $50. All submissions are automatically considered for the annual Neil Postman Award for Metaphor, a $1,000 prize judged by the editors. Website: www.rattle.submittable.com/ submit 32
Competitions The Retreat West Novel Prize 2019 The Retreat West Novel Prize is an annual prize looking for new, unagented authors with exciting novels to share. Prizes: 1st Prize: A standard publishing contract with Retreat West Books for a paperback and ebook edition of the novel, with a £500 advance. 2nd Prize: A full MS critique and editorial report from Amanda Saint. 3rd Prize: A year’s Gold Author Membership with Retreat West. Closing date: 18th August 2019 Entry fee: £15 Website: www.retreatwest.co.uk/theretreat-west-novel-prize/ Buzzwords Poetry Competition 2019 Poems should be no longer than 70 lines. No translations are accepted. Poems must not have been previously published in print or on the internet. Prizes: £600, £300, 5 x £50 Closing date: 24th August 2019 Entry fee: £4 or three poems for £10 Website: www.buzzwordspoetry.blogspot.com/p/ buzzwords-poetry-competition-2019.html The 2019 Exeter Flash Competition The competition is now accepting submissions for a story of not more than 750 words on any theme. You may read last year's winning stories on their website. Prizes: £200 and trophy, £100, £50 Closing date: 31st August 2019 Entry fee: £6 Website: www.creativewritingmatters.co.uk/ 2019exeter-flash-competition.html Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Markets & Competitions Aesthetica Creative Writing Award The Aesthetica Creative Writing Award is an international literary prize, which is organised by the art and culture publication, Aesthetica Magazine. They offer publication in an anthology that is an inspiring collection of narrative and poetic forms. Prizes: £1,000 cash prize for poetry and short fiction, consultation with literary agents Redhammer Management, Membership to The Poetry Society, a subscription to Granta and books courtesy of Bloodaxe and Vintage. Closing date: 31st August 2019 Entry fee: Short Fiction: £18 – Poetry: £12 Website: www.aestheticamagazine.com/ creative-writing-award/ New Voices Competition Have you recently embarked on writing a novel? Like some support in the early stages? There are many potential pitfalls for the first time writer. We are offering a start up package to the most promising synopsis and first page. Prize: A Start-Up mentoring package worth more than £550.00* *A mini-masterclass covering everything you need to know about writing a novel. A Start-Up Mentoring package (covering up to 50 pages/16,000 words) includes a manuscript appraisal, guidelines, a development strategy, a consultation and an agreed deadline for a year later. Closing date: 14th September 2019 Entry fee: £10 Website: www.adventuresinfiction.co.uk/new-voicescompetition/
The Woman Writer Summer 2019
Hammond House Publishing The annual Hammond House Short Story Competition attracts writers from around the world in search of recognition, publication and valuable feedback. The winners receive a cash prize, and worldwide publication of their work in an anthology of short stories, together with twenty-four shortlisted entries. The theme is ‘Leaving’. Prizes: £500, £100, £50 Closing date: 20th September 2019 Entry fee: £10 Website: www.hammondhousepublishing.com Mslexia Short Story Competition Looking for: Complete short stories in any genre up to 3,000 words. Prize: £3,000 plus an optional Moniak Mhor writing retreat Closing date: 30th September 2019 Entry fee: £10 Website: www.mslexia.co.uk/competitions/ Mslexia Flash Fiction Looking for: Complete short fiction narratives up to 300 words in any genre for adult and/or young adult readers. Prize: £500 Closing date: 30th September 2019 Entry fee: £5 Website: www.mslexia.co.uk/competitions/
CORRECTION In Pamela Payne’s report on the London Book Fair, in the last issue of The Woman Writer, the correct spelling of Sharon’s surname should have been Sharon Hoyland. Sharon is a SWWJ Friend and assistant manager of Writer’s Debut. 33
Book reviews Cryptids by Guy Blythman Published by: New Generation Publishing ISBN-13: 978-1789553710 Reviewed by David Matthews As a young boy, I remember my first introduction to mythical creatures, such as the Loch Ness Monster and the Yeti, was through my local library. One book in particular by Tim Dinsdale made a strong impression on me at that time. He was convinced that the Loch Ness Monster was real and had decided to devote his whole life to proving the creature’s existence. The fact that this well-educated man – he was an aeronautical engineer with the Royal Air Force – was prepared to do this, probably impressed me more than if the legendary beast actually existed. It is no surprise then that Cryptids, by Guy Blythman, caught my eye when suggested for review. The book consists of three separate adventures involving the Loch Ness Monster, Big Cat sightings and UFOs. There is no doubt that the author knows his stuff as all three subjects are well researched, and as a consequence, with a sizeable leap of the imagination, all seems plausible. We follow the character Glen Hunter who is a cryptozoologist – someone who investigates sightings of creatures not officially recognised by science, or animals long considered extinct. Assisted by his young adventurous cousin Sophie Needham, the pair often find that their enquiries lead to a world where everything is not quite what it seems. The deeper they delve into the mysteries the more they find themselves confronted by unscrupulous people motivated by greed, power and subterfuge. This often leads them into mysterious adventure and no little danger. The plots work best when they stick to the main 34
theme, and the occasional brief diversions into other subjects and scenarios can seem a little unnecessary. All in all Cryptids forms an imaginative and interesting yarn for those of us with an open mind, and who are not prepared to accept the world as it appears to be.
Premonitions by Daniela I Norris Published by: Roundfire Books ISBN: 978-1-78904-139-2 Reviewed by Roberta Grieve A healer in Africa in the 16th century, a marriage of convenience in pre-revolutionary France and a present day writer coming to terms with separation from her husband of 20 years. This is the story of past lives and their impact on the present. An intriguing premise and the author paints a vivid picture of each of the various time lines. I did, however, find it confusing at times, although I enjoyed it and wanted to get to the end to see how it all worked out for the characters. This is a sequel so perhaps I should have read the first in the series, Recognitions. Despite these reservations it was very well written and researched.
Vengeance on Tyneside by Eileen Thornton Independently Published ISBN-13: 978-1091660793 Reviewed by Sue Flint What an exciting read! Agnes Lockwood is a mystery solver, a sleuth, a Miss Marple type of character. On witnessing an argument between a man and young woman, then later Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Book reviews stumbling across a knife crime victim, her inquisitive mind springs into action. She hones in on otherwise unnoticed details and takes the reader through a sequence of events that grip you into the situations she finds herself in. Agnes is in a relationship with DCI Alan Johnson. His team are investigating the murder but are drawing blanks at every turn. The relationship is a tale within a tale – will they get together or won’t they? Their opposing points of view of the case and a misunderstanding cause Alan to react out of jealousy, leaving Agnes hurt and upset. The book demonstrates how team work is vital, how listening, watching, waiting and being open to other opinions can be crucial in solving a series of linked murders. It draws you into trying to work out – was it this character or that? – and leaves you guessing until the end. Agnes puts herself in danger throughout the investigations and the reader will feel the tension as she could possibly become the next victim. It is an easy read – a clean, cosy murder story with no gory details or vile motive. The culprit is not psychologically deranged but driven by greed. The summertime setting around the quayside of the River Tyne, becomes a vivid scene of crime but also conjures up an image of picturesque places to visit.
The Teashop Girls by Elaine Everest Published by: Pan ISBN: 978-1509892556 Reviewed by Vivien Brown Those of you who enjoyed reading Elaine’s Woolworths series and/or heard her speak at our recent Spring tea event, will be pleased to see that this new saga is again set The Woman Writer Summer 2019
in Second World War Kent, but now we have a whole new cast of characters and a new workplace setting – the wonderful Lyons teashops that so many older readers will remember with fondness. Rose works as a waitress, or ‘Nippy’, as do her childhood best friends Lily and Katie, and lives in her mum Flora’s seaside guesthouse, along with a lively bunch of assorted residents, at least one of whom is not quite what they seem! The towns of Ramsgate and Margate come alive on the page – the streets and houses, the sea, the iconic Dreamland, and the underground tunnels that serve as bomb shelters – as the dangers, fears, snatched moments of romance and inevitable uncertainties and separations of wartime take their toll. The teashop, air raid and ‘little ships’ Dunkirk rescue scenes, in particular, are very well written, packed with detail and clearly meticulously researched. Who knew that Lyons waitresses’ white buttons had to be sewn onto their black uniforms with red thread? Fascinating! Rose is taking her first steps into shop management while also falling in love with a charming army captain, but has no choice but to turn her back on him when she discovers his shocking secret. Lily is doing her best to honour a promise made to her dying mum, but with devastating and life-changing consequences, while orphan Katie just wants to marry her sweetheart and make a home of her own before he is whisked away to war. Meanwhile, Flora’s house guests all have histories, problems and talents of their own, and all play their own small but important part in the girls’ story. Outspoken Anya has fled her native Poland and is hoping to find her pilot husband, down-to-earth Mildred has inherited a fishing boat and regularly goes out to sea in it, little Pearl and her mum are separated when the child is evacuated, and elderly Miss Tibbs proves to be a highly skilled needlewoman. I soon came to know and love every one of them! 35
Book reviews If you have read Elaine’s previous books, as I have, it’s fun to spot the little crossovers with characters we have met before – film star Johnny Johnson from The Butlins Girls is appearing in a film the girls want to see at the cinema, Gracie and her paddle steamer from Gracie’s War pop up in the Dunkirk scenes, and where do the girls go shopping? At Woolworths, of course! And Elaine tells me that a newly married couple in her next Woolworths book will be visiting Ramsgate and staying at Flora’s guesthouse on their honeymoon. What a lovely way to link these different stories and their many characters as they all live out the war and its aftermath just a few miles from each other.
The Burning Chambers by Kate Mosse Published by: Pan; Main Market edition ISBN-13: 978-1509806850 Reviewed by Jill Rutherford The Burning Chambers is the first of a planned trilogy by this worldwide bestselling author, so it’s a bit daunting to review such an illustrious writer. This is a clever, vast, sweeping, ambitious book by a skilful author. Her style is believable and natural. I was carried along without realising I was learning a lot about the history of a time and place I knew little about. The conflict between Catholics and Huguenots in 16th century France is something that has always remained on the periphery of my knowledge. The history was fascinating and was supported by well-drawn characters who were people I cared about and whose lives I believed in. The author uses the story of women as the main focus with the men in supporting roles, which I found intriguing and refreshing. We follow the adventures of Minou, a 36
nineteen-year-old woman who is caught up in local events that have national importance. The plot skilfully brings Minou into knowledge of a past that has been kept from her. She has to discover what this means for her as she fights for her life, and the life of her family in the civil war that erupts between the Catholics and Huguenots in her town. It is an intriguing and intricate period of time in the history of the Christian church and what it meant to the people caught up in it. Even in the worst of times, love can blossom, and this is the case for Minou, brought up a Catholic, when she meets Piet, who has rejected his Catholic upbringing for the Protestant religion. Conflict, love, war, history, good and evil deeds – it’s all here in bucketfuls. I don’t want to give the plot away and spoil the many twists and turns for the reader but suffice it to say, it is a surprising book in many ways, especially where the women characters are concerned. We see beyond their outward persona and gain insight into the ways cultural norms afflict women and the outcomes of that. This is an atmospheric book that takes you vividly back to that period. I saw the fashions, the towns and villages, the countryside and faces, and stature of all the characters. I felt the passions and values of each person, good and bad. If I have any criticism it would be that at nearly 600 pages it was overly long. I felt there was too much description which didn’t add to the plot. Also, I found the book jumped about too frequently. Often, the reader is confronted with one character’s storyline for a page and a half, which then stops abruptly and goes into another character’s story for a page and a half, and then another, and so on. I couldn’t get a good flow of concentration going and constantly had to adjust myself, which I found unsettling. I’m aware this is a Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Book reviews technique, I’ve used it myself, but for me, it was overused to the detriment of continuity. It is an intriguing period of history, well researched and woven into the plot without the reader noticing. It is not surprising that Kate Mosse is a worldwide best-selling author.
adversaries/ comrades by Gail Aldwin Published by: Wordsmith_HQ (formerly the Student Wordsmith) Reviewed by Susan Skinner These poems are lively, varied and apt. The subject of siblings is addressed in many forms but there is always a fresh and interesting angle to each piece of writing. The poems are written with a sort of practical êlan that reveals the many truths of being a child in a family with other siblings, and the sometimes cruel way children treat grown-ups who don’t seem very real to them. The poet is also interested in presenting her poems in different forms on the pages, and the witty effect the form has on the meaning of the poem. Although her words sometimes turn into a lively prose I think this reflects the ‘everydayness’ of family life. Underneath the usual happenings in a family the poet expresses a deep understanding of how siblings both love each other and are rivals, and how the attitude of parents leaves them with an emotional reaction that will probably affect their later lives. The poet also tackles grown-up sisters, one of whom faces death and one of whom faces loneliness. I recommend this pamphlet to anyone who is interested in the sturdy emotional life of a family. The Woman Writer Summer 2019
A word about book reviews... If you want your book reviewed in the WW, please ask your publisher to send a hard copy only to: Pamela Birley, Flat D, 49 Christchurch Street, London SW3 4AS. Tel: 020 7351 6377 Email: bra33@btinternet.com PDFs or entries sent by computer will not be accepted. The hard copy of the book is the only payment for their services that the reviewer receives, so please do not ask for the book to be returned. Send an image of the cover of your book to Carol Cannavan or ask your publisher to send the cover photo to: carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk Please be patient. The review of your book will be in the WW, but sometimes there is a backlog. Also, we are unable to review a trilogy or series of books at one time, and books should be submitted within four months of publication. A copy of the WW containing the review will be sent to the publisher, unless the book is self-published or the publisher doesn’t give a postal address on their website. To give everyone a better chance to have their review included, no more than 350 words please. Thank you.
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Christmas Tea application form
Christmas Tea Thursday 5th December 2019 at The National Liberal Club, 1 Whitehall Place, London SW1A 2HE Arrive 1pm for 1.30pm
Guest speaker: Jackie Malton (Application form can be photocopied) Name ……………………………………………….
Membership No. ……………
No. @£18.50 ...…..….
Cheque amount ………………
Guests @£19.50 .…..……
Name of guest(s) ………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………… Any dietary requests. (Please ensure you list all dietary requests. These cannot be provided without notice.) …………………………………………………………………………………………… Receipts are available on the day. Tickets are not being issued. If you would like an acknowledgement please add your email address below. Email ...................................................................................................................................................... BOOKINGS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 22nd NOVEMBER. There can be no refunds after this date. Please send completed form with any dietary requests, together with a cheque made payable to SWWJ, to:
Janice Grande, 4 Fraser Close, Laindon, Basildon, Essex SS15 6SU.
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Summer 2019 The Woman Writer
Diary dates DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2019-2020
30th August:
Copy deadline for the Autumn issue of The Woman Writer
31st August
SWWJ John Walter Salver Competition closing date
31st August
The Floella Benjamin Trophy Competition closing date
3rd September:
SWWJ Council Meeting at NLC
7th September:
Drama Workshop, London
9th September:
AGM and Tea & Tour at the House of Lords
16th October:
Southern Region Anniversary Lunch and Meeting
9th September:
AGM and Tea & Tour at the House of Lords
25th November:
SWWJ Council Meeting at NLC
29th November:
Copy deadline for the New Year issue of The Woman Writer
5th December:
Christmas Tea at NLC at NLC
2020 6th January:
Closing date for the Elizabeth Longford Poetry Competition
19th March:
SWWJ Prize-giving Spring Tea
The Woman Writer is published four times a year: New Year (January), Spring (April), Summer (July) and Autumn (October). Copy dates are listed above. Send your copy to carol@aspire-editorial.co.uk The SWWJ Newsletter is published bi-monthly. Copy that misses the WW copy dates will be passed to Doreen Friend for the Newsletter at doreen.friend@swwj.co.uk To receive the Newsletter, please make sure we have your current email address. Regional meetings take place at the advertised venues. Council meetings are held at The National Liberal Club,1 Whitehall Place, Westminster, London SW1A 2HE. The Woman Writer Summer 2019
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28 | Diary & Services
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