Even after five times around the block, shuttering the tech department for the summer and transitioning into rental mode for the summer, still takes longer–and much more work–than planned. This year comes with additional considerations, as half of the academic wing is under construction, and we’re cutting over to a fiber optic internet connection. Add in some vacation days, a hip flare, and the usual summer projects makes for busy Writer guy. Next year, summer should be more tranquil. Looking back at older entries from the same time period, though, reveals this prediction has been made before. In any case, somewhat normal posting will resume soon.
July’s leg of the virtual tour began Monday. Or was it Tuesday? Anyway, the tour page has all the latest links and tour stops information. Except for a podcast next week, all the work on the tour is done. At least the work that involves me. Which means a lot more free time for writing.
Speaking of writing projects, Mystery Scene Magazine ( Issue #115 ) has a review of The Last Track which should land around July 29, 2010, and appear in Borders and Barnes and Nobles ( and many fine booksellers ) shortly thereafter. Can’t lie, I’m pretty psyched about that one. The editor requested a picture that may appear alongside the review.
About the old familiar black and white photo. Certainly got some mileage out of that shot, and completely by accident. Taken by a friend, it was intended as solely filler for a photo class portfolio. Final assignment called for nine pictures; they were short one and I was around. Would have stayed only in their portfolio, never to be seen again.
But then Chuck Palahniuk offered excellent advice for writers in regarding author photos during an interview. A pearl something like: “Get your author photo taken now, because by the time the book comes out, you’ll look a lot older.” Very good advice. Recycling is not just something one should talk about; it means taking action. And the plan of action means recycling that photo for awhile.
Maybe indefinitely. Or at least until the hair goes gray.