Product Description
After surviving a near-fatal accident, thirty-year-old Lizzy Mitchell faces a long road to recovery. She remembers little about the days she spent in and out of consciousness, save for one thing: She saw her beloved deceased uncle, Father Mike, the man who raised her in the rectory of his Maine church until she was nine, at which time she was abruptly sent away to boarding school. Was Father Mike an angel, a messenger from the beyond, or something more corporeal? Though her troubled marriage and her broken body need tending, Lizzy knows she must uncover the details of her accident–and delve deep into events of twenty years before, when whispers and accusations forced a good man to give up the only family he had. With deft insight into the snares of the human heart, Monica Wood has written an intimate and emotionally expansive novel full of understanding and hope. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (42)

Don't want it to end
I am about 3/4 through this book and I find myself putting it down after reading another page or two.I don't want it to end.I don't want to finish this book because I know it will be awhile before I find another which is so well written. Page after page of engrossing, beautiful writing...

Lovely and Amazing
I absolutely devoured this book. The language is so beautiful you could eat it with a spoon. This is one of the best books I've ever read. I cannot say enough good things about it. And unlike The Secret Life of Bees which it was (oddly) compared to by Glamour magazine; I loved it. I read The Secret Life of Bees andwasn't that impressed by it. Not so with this. I am now off to find more and more Monica Wood. I too am amazed that this book has not attracted more attention. It is a rare gem. I swear, you could pair it with a medium-bodied merlot. Delicious!

Compelling without overdoing it
Wood gives an amazingly realistic portrayal of an adult's memory of early childhood. The relationship of a young girl to her caretaker that emerges is the most poignant I've ever read. Her attention to the details of childhood is such that it reminded me of things I hadn't thought about in decades. The main character's experience of being ripped from her caretaker amid false allegations is truly heart-wrenching without being maudlin - a difficult feat.

However, Wood's handling of the relationships of husbands and wives isn't nearly as compelling. In her defense, marital relations vary much more in detail than do parental relationships, yet I still found myself unmoved for the most part by the main marriage presented.

Overall though, Wood's handling and depiction of relationships and of complicated emotions - passion, grief, love, hate - is compelling. And as an added bonus, the book is quite a page turner.

Great characters, engaging prose - READ IT!
I don't usually take the time to write reviews, but I really wanted to write one for this book. It is simultaneously a great page-turner and a thought-provoking commentary on faith, family, love, and society. Primarily I want to dispel any notion that this is a Catholic priest/child abuse story--some other review summaries may inadvertently lead you to think that.It is NOT that kind of story; the love between Lizzy and her uncle, Father Mike, is completely innocent and genuine. If you are a parent, you will relate to Father Mike's feelings and insecurities and actions.Monica Wood captures all of that so well.She also shows us how quickly people can draw totally erroneous conclusions with incomplete information, yet truly believe that their judgment is sound.

Plus, this book has so many other layers, angles, and plot developments that labeling it as only one kind of story would be a shame.

The only reason I gave this book four instead of five stars is that I felt the ending was slightly rushed. Only slightly, though! I wanted to know more about the trajectory that some characters had been on, both physically and emotionally.I can't say more than that without giving anything away.

The bottom line is that Any Bitter Thing is a wonderful story filled with multi-dimensional characters and a haunting message. Highly recommended.

Absolutely Wonderful!
I loved this book! Its plot held surprising twists and turns, the characters were just beautifully drawn... It was an excellent book! I really loved reading it. It was so very beautiful. I really am looking forward to reading other books by her, and will certainly be loaning my copy out to my mother. ... Read more

Product Description
When writers make their descriptions fresh, they move their stories forward and imbue their work with atmosphere. Monica Wood helps squeeze the greatest flavour from language and provides insight into how detail, editing, style, point of view and original word depictions can be used to create unforgettable images that will stick with readers for a lifetime. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (30)

Troubleshooting kit for a writer.
Consider this book an owner's manual and troubleshooting kit on the use of description, point of view and dialogue. Seriously. There are a handful of books that I have read and feel that I am better equipped to write, and this book is on that list. I particularly found the sections on forward motion and point of view enlightening, and I find myself referencing this book quite a bit now. Wood will help you become a better writer.

Not the usual
Monica Wood takes on some of the classic proverbs of fiction-writing--like "show don't tell" and "never use adverbs"--and makes a convincing case for moderation.

She covers a range of styles from the minimalist to descriptions that run for a couple of paragraphs, all the way up to the "set piece" scene which gets its own discussion in chapter 3. You'll have to pick and choose based on your personal style--I myself can't imagine *ever* intentionally writing a set piece--but the information is there.

She also makes a point of showing how description combines and contrasts with the other parts of narrative, and offering her opinions (which seem pretty reasonable to me) as to when to show and when to tell.

Special topic: It seems like every book on writing goes on about Point of View, and unless you're a total beginner you probably know all of that stuff. But Chapter 5 goes into PoV in a depth that I've never seen before, with explicit recommendations for what types of stories work and don't work in various PoVs. She discusses not just the strengths and weaknesses of each possible choice of PoV but also gives specific suggestions on how to work with the weaknesses. She even has about two pages discussing second-person PoV, a topic that is usually dismissed with a "nobody does it".

Wood's book isn't entirely anti-establishment, but there is enough unorthodoxy in there to make this an interesting addition to my collection of writing books.

Great tips and ideas
I've read several of the writer's digest books and this was one of the better written ones.I use a highlighter to underline useful points and in Description I found at least 30 ideas/suggestions for future consideration. Some of the material I have seen elsewhere but that's to be expected.I found her style to be very readable, sometimes funny, informative, and easy to comprehend.If you're interested in writing novels or short stories, I would recommend you make this book part of your library.

Description
I highly recommend this book if you are writing your first novel.Contains valuable, insightful information.

Not Terrible, Not Great
This it one of those books that I can neither thing of a real good reason to recommend it, nor can I think of a good reason to tell people to avoid it, so it gets three stars. Monica Wood covers the topic fairly well and has some good suggestions, but there isn't much unique matterial in the book. As I read, I found myself skipping sections of the book and I don't feel that I miss anything by doing so. She has some different views about some things than other authors, most notably the "show, don't tell" rule. But few authors agree on that rule. She seems to have more of a character driven approach to writing, so if you do also then you may find her book more helpful than one written by someone with a plot based approach. The occassional jewels that are scattered throughout the book make it worth buying for many people, but others may find it difficult to read. ... Read more

Product Description
The Pocket Muse is every writer's key to finding writing inspiration when and where they want it. It includes hundreds of thought-provoking prompts, exercises and illustrations that immediately help them to:

* Get started writing

* Overcome writer's block

* Develop a writing habit

* Think more creatively

* Master style, revision and other elements of the craft

The rich variety of exercises will help writers to create entire stories or focus on a single aspect of their writing. It will also encourage them to think about how they write in new and surprising ways. The Pocket Muse is truly a unique book, both fun and effective. It will teach, cheer and inspire writers as never before.Amazon.com Review
According to Monica Wood, every writer needs two critics: one who offers unconditional praise and another who tells only truth. Wood's Pocket Muse does both--"on some pages you get a pat on the head, on others a kick in the seat"--and more. Every page of this pretty little book is devoted to helping you "jumpstart a writing session, inspire confidence, or strengthen your resolve." There are intriguing writing exercises, thought-provoking photographs, offbeat quotations from writers, enticing unfinished sentences, mini writing lessons, quirky word lists, stories from the writing trenches, and a generous dose of encouragement. "Write about a noise--or a silence--that won't go away," Wood suggests. "Someone has left a note on a car windshield," she offers. Books of this sort are often forced, or cute, or more about spirituality than writing. Not The Pocket Muse. It is a lively, appealing companion for a writer in need of a good nudge. --Jane Steinberg ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

Nice book
It's a nice book and it gives some excellet writing prompts. This is more set up for someone with the ocassional writer's block but that doesn't hurt it that much. I read it to help stir the creative juices and to for some inspiration.

overall a very good book for anyone who wants to write.

Great expectations!
Such an awesome and inspiring book to get the creative juices flowing and get you writing! I love that it is written as a "novel" per say, it is however written as short inspirational quotes. It's very easy to carry this along with you and you could literally flip through it and pick any page for a dose of inspiration for your writing.

Buy this book! You won't be sorry.

Little Gem
Just small enough to carry on trips or to slip into a suitcase, The Pocket Muse has inspiration and tips to last for years.You will refer to it often - and to the same exercises over and over.

My version has nice slick coated pages so the book feels substantial. I'm not sure if it is available in lightweight pages (for packing on a trip where every ounce counts.)

In any case, keep it with you and flip open to any page - at any time.You will love it!

Great For Any Writer
I bought this book about 7 years ago and still use it often. There is so much in this fairly small book! Once you get through the whole thing, you've forgotten most of what was in the beginning. Whenever I get stuck or just need some inspiration, I open it up to any random page and it isn't long until I can begin writing. While you may not use it's prompts or exercises exactly as they describe, your imagination will be charged for sure...and that's the point right? Not only are there prompts (like "Write about a noise- or silence- that won't go away"), there are also many artsy, interesting pictures, quotes from writers, exercises and short stories to get your imagination going. I HIGHLY recommend this book for any writer. I use it often.

A good time
This book is good if you just need a writing exercise.I find it very useful when I have writers block.I can just flip through it and usually write about something completely off-topic, but it help me to clear my mind and relax.It's a good fun book. ... Read more

Product Description
Connie has trouble with time. She always has to stop and think a minute: How old is she now? . . . Faith always seems to know, though her life is the same as Connie’s: back and forth to theater towns all over. The same dingy food, the same noisy sidewalks, the same cramped suites in the same hotels. . . Sometimes they go to school, sometimes not, though they always have books to read: big packets of books that Armand sends to them in every city. Armand is their parents’ lawyer, the only person they know who likes children. . . .

Faith and Connie endured the same childhood as daughters of egocentric, semi-famous actors who can scarcely take care of themselves. But the two sisters could not be more different. Connie learned to beg for attention, clamor for approval, and fill the silence with words. Faith turned inward, shrinking from the tender emotions that make up an ordinary life. Despite their differences, the sisters came to rely on each other exclusively. But lately, after years of quiet connection, Faith and Connie seem to have lost the ties that once held them close. Faith has a home and two growing sons, but is still unable to fathom unconditional love. Connie, a flight attendant, is always searching, ever-expecting to find her true place in life at the end of each long flight. But a series of shocking, revelatory events will bring the sisters back to each other—and forever alter how they define love, fulfillment, and most importantly, family. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Breaks your heart, then lets it heal
Faith and Constance are the neglected daughters of two histrionic small-time actors. Their childhood is the least interesting part of this magical novel (and it's also the beginning, so keep reading). Their adult lives are distorted by their early years; attachment is incredibly difficult for these women, even attaching to each other. They are, as one sister says, more like "two chairs in a room" than bonded sisters.

This is a novel of character, but there is quite a plot. I won't give that away, but it's surprising in all the right ways, while realistically foreseeable in others. While reading about Faith's family, I found myself holding my breath in sympathy and pain. It is a rare and affecting book that can create such heartfelt turmoil. Highly recommended for readers who love realistic stories of family life.

heartbreakingly wonderful
I love all Monica's Woods books but this one is my favorite - so far. It is a heartbreakingly wonderful book told with great sensitivity.

What a wonderful book!
I'm so glad I discovered Monica Wood.Her language is gorgeous, her characters compelling, and she oh so delicately describes the pain and joy of human relationships, in a way we can all identify with.I highly recommend Secret Language, and can't wait to read more by this talented author.

Definietly worth reading!
Secret Language is a five star book in my opinion! It's about two sisters, Connie and Faith, who grow up in various hotels while traveling around the U.S. with their semi-famous parents.The two girls growup very fast because most of the time they are left alone.By the time Faith is just getting out of high school and Connie is in her senior year, they are left to take care of themselves because of the death of both their parents.They, especially Faith, go through their life stumbling over obstacle after obstacle.It takes Faith a long time to put her past behind her and to start over.There were charaters who were always there to help them through their journey and to let them know that they are special.This never really happened when they were kids.Monica Wood is an excellent writer and I'm excited to read some of her other books.

Family Bonds
This was the first novel by Monica Wood, one of my new favorite writers! I first read "My Only Story" and then managed to find "The Secret Language". In between I read her newest book, "Ernie's Ark".

I loved all three books even though they were quite different. All are about families and how they shape us. Part of this theme is that families may be those whom we assemble around us rather than those related by blood.

In "The Secret Language", both Connie and Faith have suffered damage and serious neglect at the hands of their parents, Billy and Delle, traveling actors who were semi-famous but never achieved the fame they sought. These were people who really loved only themselves and the idea of who they were, and their two pretty little girls were part of this image.

The strong coping mechanisms that the sisters developed as children helped them then and continued to help them in adulthood. Unfortunately, the way that Faith coped was to try to avoid feeling too deeply. Despite having married into an outgoing family, the Dohertys, Faith has been walled off for so long that she is unable to connect and always feels like an outsider....they seem overwhelming to her. She seems incapable of allowing Joe to love her, and feels as if she is frozen and incapable of being any other way. Her sister Connie also fears love, but in a different way.

When Isadora appears and wants to be let into their lives, to be an instant sister, she does not realize she will never really be on the inside because there are no shared experiences. She will never see their father, Billy, for the narcissist whom he was, caring only about himself and the image he projected. Like Billy, Isadora is also self-absorbed and a user who will do almost anything to get her way. To say that she is manipulative is an understatement.

I really appreciate the way Wood develops her characters. As a reader, I feel that I know these people: feel their pain, their joy, their sorrow. What a gift! ... Read more

Product Description
The paper mill looms up from the riverbank in Abbott Falls, Maine, a town once drenched with ordinary hopes and dreams, now praying for a small drop of good fortune. Ernie Whitten, a pipe fitter, was three weeks away from a pension-secured retirement when the union went on strike eight months ago. Now his wife Marie is ill. Struck with sudden inspiration, Ernie builds a giant ark in his backyard. It is a work of art for his wife; a vessel to carry them both away; or a plea for God to spare Marie, come hell or high water. As the ark takes shape, the rest of the town carries on. There’s Dan Little, a building-code enforcer who comes to fine Ernie for the ark and makes a significant discovery about himself; Francine Love, a precocious thirteen-year-old who longs to be a part of the family-like world of the union workers; and Atlantic Pulp & Paper CEO Henry John McCoy, an impatient man wearily determined to be a good father to his twenty-six-year-old daughter. The people of Abbott Falls will try their best to hold a community together, against the fiercest of odds. . . . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

englishteacher23
I loved this Maine author!Our book club found many issues to discuss.Monica Wood has a deep understanding of Maine communities.This collection of stories weaves a fantastic tale about a mill community torn apart by a strike and the healing process that ensues.Her characters are appealing and her sense of humor is awesome.

Beautiful Read
Monica Wood's story is set in a small town which is affected by the closure of a local paper mill.Wood follows several characters, each with a unique and touching perspective.I cherished this book and often give it as a gift to other readers. ... Read more

Product Description
He came to me first in a dream, as a crippled dog angling down a country lane, puzzled by his sudden age, his bum paw, the dry stick clamped between his teeth. I’d been expecting this dream for a very long time, and I woke up moving. . . .

Rita Rosario has a gift, a way with people. She listens to them and really sees them for who they are–warts and all. And sometimes, she even knows how to guide them toward a new beginning. Women, even men, come to Rita’s beauty shop for perms, town gossip, and the makeovers of their very lives.

John Reed first appears to Rita in one of her dreams. When they meet at a town gathering a few days later, she immediately offers him a haircut, and her heart. As they share their stories, Rita senses she can help John fill a void by reconnecting him to his only family–a young niece he nearly lost in a heartbreaking tragedy. While inspiring John on a journey out of loneliness and into reconciliation, Rita begins to come to terms with events in her past . . . and discovers things about herself she never realized, including her own intimate role in John’s unfolding story.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

Loved It
This is a beautifully written book, full of suspense and heart and a philosophy about living life to its fullest, set amidst a plot of a hairstylist's search for happiness and peace-a husband? a baby? help your crazy sister?I absolutely could not put this book down.

Don't bother
I hated this book. I kept thinking that it had to get better based on the reviews on Amazon.Her neediness was oppressive.Ugh!

What is redemption?
This lovely novel tells the story of broken people and their search for redemption in life.Rita, a lonely and reflective haridresser, befriends John, who is suffering from his own demons.John reveals that he has a long-lost neice with whom he is estranged due to a family tragedy.Rita encourages John to reconnect with his neice, and this sets in motion a chain of events that will change all of their lives.During the course of the novel, Rita also reconnects with her estranged sister, who had been living in a cult.

While this plot line may seem absurd from this description, it is refreshingly normal.This story is really about love, loss, forgiveness, family, and finally acceptance.Monica Wood is a stunningly beautiful writer and can convey complex emotions in the most beautiful and simple ways.The book stays with you long after you finish it, as do the characters.

Lyrical prose highlights a sadly beautiful story
The main character of this book, Rita, has experienced many losses in her 30-something years:the loss of her beloved grandmother to cancer, the loss of her infuriating older sister to a cummune, the loss of her childhood home and the town where she grew up, and finally, the loss of her marriage and related hopes for a child.Despite all this, she sees herself as a healer, and when she meets John, a lost soul, she sets out to save him.John tells Rita his "only story," his own tale of love and loss.Rita sets out on a mission to give John his life back, but somewhere along the way, she discovers that she is trying to save herself as well.Eventually, Rita makes the decision to sacrifice her own dreams in order to grant the wish of the enchanting little girl who holds the key to John's salvation.

Wood's book is beautifully written, even haunting at times; Rita's yearnings will stir up your own emotions, moving you to both anger and tears.The story is rich with originality, and the ending provides a conclusion that is both happy and sad.The one thing that prevented me from giving the book 5 stars was the transformation of Rita's character.When we first meet her, Rita is portrayed as a quirky, strong survivor type with a good head on her shoulders; there is something clearly mystical about her as well.Over the course of the story, however, Rita starts to become needy, selfish, and even a bit unhinged.Of course, this metamorphosis is partly in service of the plot, and by the end of the book, Rita is her old self again; I just found the changes to be a bit too much out-of character.However, this a minor flaw, and it does not detract from the fact that My Only Story is a rich, rewarding read.

This book is a treasure
My Only Story is an enchanting book.Wood's mastery of the language creates beautiful, sometimes poetic prose.I fell in love with her characters, who were all engaging and winsome.Even the "bad guys" were compelling, fully realized, struggling with their own devils while hurting the protagonists.The ending was inevitable and believable, and I was sorry to say goodbye to the characters.

Wood's ability to express both human pain and human hope is very refreshing.I look forward to reading every word she writes from now on.Also, I strongly recommend her other novel, Secret Language. ... Read more

Product Description
"The Innovative Sequel to Our Best-Selling Book of Writing Prompts*Follow-up to the successful and well-loved Pocket Muse*Features creative insights and inspirations for the writing life*Packaged in a visually stunning format to help prompt creativityOffering an incredible spectrum of writing prompts, photos, and advice, The Pocket Muse: Endless Inspiration provides readers with the same unique and stimulating approach to writing as the first title--this time, featuring advice for all types of writers: fiction, nonfiction, and poets. A browsable, engaging, and charming book, this follow-up will appeal to readers of the first title, as well as writers discovering Wood’s trademark approach for the first time." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

One of the Best Resources Ever!
I absolutely love the Pocket Muses!I always go "really, that much?" when I see the price, but then I remind myself that they're hardcover and really for how much I use them?Totally worth it!I keep these together with my other "resource" books for writing.If I'm ever stuck or need an idea, I pull my "resource" books down to use and I always figure out something to write with.

If you take out mini post-its to mark the pages you're interested in, you'll end up using a whole stack!I warn you now!Absolutely worth the money!

i have this book.....................
If you are a writer, i would advice you to get this book, i absolutely love it and i highly recommend it to ALL my friends its an incredible book. I LOVE reading it and hopefully i will be doing more writing. get it its awesome

I love it!
Received this in the mail today.I purchased my copy used but it was in good condition with only a few scraps and scratches.Mine is a hardcopy and very sturdy with no breaks or torn pages.I was already familiar with the "Writer's Muse" books so I was excited when it arrived and turned out to be exactly what I had hoped for.These books are a lot of fun even if you aren't a writer but want to play with your imagination.It is great for students taking creative writing courses or just to have something to flip through on a rainy day. Beautiful pictures on the pages and a worthwhile buy.

Excellent tibits and tips
I use the ideas in this book in my HS creative writing classes. It's been quite successful and fun! ... Read more

Product Description
Gorgeous short stories by established and emerging fiction writers. This issue includes the winners of Glimmer Train's 2001 Fiction Open and Very Short Fiction Award. ... Read more

Product Description
Wood engraver displays sensitivity to the natural world. ... Read more

Product Description
Acclaimed novelist Monica Wood again turns her keen eye and wry humor to small town Maine. Nine interrelated stories create a layered and complex portrait of a community in the midst of crisis as a strike wears on at the paper mill, and the residents of Abbott Falls feel the reverberations of the town’s shifting fortune. Ernie, just days shy of retirement when the strike hits, finds new purpose in building an ark in the backyard. Written with a quiet grace and lyrical power, Ernie’s Ark is a moving work by a writer who understands the vagaries and hopes of the human heart. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Near-great
Ernie's Ark by Monica Wood could not merely be a great book, but possibly great literature were there just a bit more depth to it. I state this to differentiate this fact from the typical lower case `great' that adorns the book covers of every piece of schlock the publishing world wastes pulp on. The great I state is with a capital G. That this book ever got published, by Ballantine Books, must be a testament to randomness, for I seriously doubt the author's agent, editor, and publisher knew what they had, and, if one can read between the lines on the author's website, and an interview printed in the book, after the work, neither, perhaps, did the author....This idea- of merely stumbling into greatness, applies to the author herself, for it seems that Ms. Wood may very well be one of those writers capable of stray greatness, but not its replicability, nor knowledge of how that greatness was achieved. As I said once, in a sonnet, `Greater than transcendence is its recognition,' for to know how to achieve greatness is greater than achieving greatness, just as knowing how to fish is greater than having a fish to eat. Two things point to the possibility Wood is a stumbler, although I hope I'm wrong. The first is that, in scanning her website and looking through her book, she seems to consistently praise writers demonstrably inferior to her own accomplishment- a fact that is unfortunately not uncommon amongst writers of merit seemingly obsessed with those that have little or none (imagine Hart Crane longing to be Henry Darger!). The second is that she seems wont to giving very generic and non-specific advice that is of, at best, specious merit for such can often lead to writers becoming very dogmatic in their approach to art, rather than being pragmatic as to the needs of each work.

That said, these are minor concerns, for one need only compare her writing to the insistently PC tripe put out by a Jhumpa Lahiri, or the `risky, innovative' crap published by a Rick Moody to see that Wood's comparative `classicism' is not subject to the stultifying repetitions of the former, nor cornucopia of clichés that define the latter, for the writing does more, itself, and pushes more boundaries than either of those two dominant trends in fiction, which damn character, shun narrative ingenuity, and stultify true imagination. In short, contemporary published writing shuns risk and ambition- this book does not. And unlike the postmodern posing of a David Foster Wallace, which, taken in either excerpts or a whole, is garbage, the writing of Monica Wood, as I've shown, is not. It is great in fractal ways- in the brief or in the main, and it survives rereading, which all great writing does, for it is loaded with things that connect in differing ways in differing moods of the reader.

So, let me end where I began: this is possibly great literature. I know, from personal experience, that great literature is still being written. This is proof that it is still being published, however randomly. If you do not believe me then I say, trust your senses as you read the book, for it will feel real. Fiction that you know is fiction is rarely great; it's only when you unconsciously fall into it that greatness has been breached. Yet, paradoxically, it feels normal, ordinary. But, it's a different sort of ordinary. Buy this book, recommend it to friends, and do so knowing the difference between merely liking a work and recognizing its technical greatness. I do, even though I would have liked to see a different ending, and would have preferred each tale to be a little thicker and richer, and to have done a little more overall, as a book. But I recognize this bias, and understand that a critic's job is to evaluate, not translate, nor judge a work by what it isn't, but what it is. I do this exceedingly well, and know that Wood has done enough to be accorded a just accolade of greatness for some of her work, and will happily settle for such an addition to the canon, even if I would have liked a little more. Would that such `disappointments' all went as well.

Another Winner for Monica Wood!
I *discovered* this writer when I read "My Only Story" which I absolutely loved. I then followed up with "The Secret Language", an entirely different but equally rewarding read. So when I heard about "Ernie's Ark" there was no doubt that I would read it! And it was a joy.

I always enjoy reading books of connected stories and this was one of the best. Wood created a foundation with the first story and proceeded to build on it until she finished constructing a marvelously detailed structure. I loved how each story started anew but then incorporated some character or event from a previous story, creating one of those "a-ha" moments.

Abbott Falls, Maine could have been Anytown, USA and showed Wood's familiarity with this kind of environment and with the effect that a mill, a union, and striking workers can have on the town. The wonderfully developed characters are people we have met before in our lives. Perhaps we did not know all their secrets, but we have known them, I am sure.

This is a book of life, death, love, hate, fear, anger, joy, and most of all, about redemption. I cannot wait for her next!

Mesmerizing
Mesmerizing

Ernie's Ark is a joy to read and reread. Unforgettable characters and the seasons themselves weave in and out of these nine connected stories.Author Monica Wood clearly knows small-town life, but the stories reach well beyond geographical boundary. A paper-mill strike defines the fictional Maine town, but all of the characters, even the CEO, have a distinct story to tell.A youngest brother, darling of the family, who must choose between crossing the picket line and defying family loyalty.One "heartbreaking eighth-grade girl" and a grieving widower who form an unlikely alliance.A young man reaching for a lifeline that will enable him to break away from the father who has simultaneously controlled and ignored him.

Wood's prose is golden: "A SIMPLE REQUEST FROM A NEIGHBOR GIRL, THE FIRST REQUEST FROM ANY HUMAN BEING SINCE MARIE'S BREATHLESS 'HOLD ME, ERNIE' WHEN HE'D FELT WHAT WAS LEFT OF HER LIFT FROM THE EARTH."And succinct: "WE USED TO BE A CLOSE FAMILY.BARBECUES AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES, LOTS OF BAD JOKES AND BELLY-LAUGHING, EVERYBODY'S KIDS MARCHING IN AND OUT OF ALL THE KITCHEN." And full of discovery:"HE STOOD ALONE FOR THE NEXT FIFTEEN MINUTES WATCHING THE OWL IN THE COLD.AT ONE POINT IT RAISED ITS PONDEROUS WINGS AND LIFTED FROM THE EARTH, DRIFTING DOWN A FEW FEET TO THE WEST.'STAY, STAY,' HE WHISPERED, WHOLLY BELIEVING HE'D BEEN SUMMONED TO THIS PLACE BY A DEAD MAN TO WITNESS A MARVEL IN HIS STEAD."

Tempered with humor and moments of high suspense, the stories trace the multifaceted paths that lead to forgiveness and redemption.Wood explores the human heart in all its complexity. Throughout the book the ark stands tall, suggesting a myriad of subtleties as varied as the characters themselves.

Delight and insight!
This work compares very favorably with Richard Russo's Pulitzer-winning EMPIRE FALLS and covers much of the same territory.Like Russo, Wood is intimately and intricately familiar with the people she characterizes so well. Some of these stories could happen anywhere; some only in smalltown Maine. The stories are loosely connected and characters overlap in what in the hands of a lesser writer, might seem a contrived structure, but which here adds a depth of patterning to the already complicated relationships between these entirely lovable, if foible-full creations. You won't find Abbott Falls on any map of Maine, but towns and situations of similar ilk about everywhere, especailly in the smalltown Maine of the human heart.

Wow!
ERNIE'S ARK is an astounding book.This collection, like the ark of the title story, is built one piece at a time, one story on top of the last, until the reader is left with a magnificent monument to its characters.Set in the town of Abbott Falls, Maine, during a lengthy labor strike, the stories focus on those struggling to make connections with their loved ones during difficult times.In the title story, Ernie, a striking pipefitter who was days fromretirement when the strike began, tends to his dying wife, Marie.In an uncharacteristic moment of artistic vision, he begins to build what he calls an "installment", a large ark in his backyard that gives him hope during a time when he should have none. In my personal favorite, "That One Autumn." Marie, on her deathbed, reflects on a frightening incident that solidified her marriage and which now allows her to leave it, loved. "The Temperature of Desire" explores the grief of the union man Danny when his beloved younger brother crosses the picket line."Solidarity Is Not a Floor" follows Francine, the eighth grade daughter of an errant father and professor, who loses her right to an honor because hers is not a union family.When events take an unexpected turn, Francine is given a glimpse into the adult world, thus giving her the strength to confront her father.

Wood explores lives that touch each other, sometimes briefly, introducing the main character of each story as a cameo role in a preceding one. These stories are about making human connections, about love and confusion, about betrayal and faith.Taken separately, the stories would be admirable, but together they acquire an ever increasing power that resonates long after the reading.

I can't recommend this collection highly enough.I became a fan of Monica Wood's work when I read MY ONLY STORY, but this collection of stories, both heartbreaking and triumphant, shows the maturing talents of a writer just now hitting her stride. ... Read more

Product Description
Offering an incredible spectrum of writing prompts, photos, and advice, The Pocket Muse: Endless Inspiration provides you with the same unique and stimulating approach to writing as the original Pocket Muse--this time, featuring advice for all types of writing including fiction of all genres, nonfiction, and poetry. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Disappointed
I just began writing a journal again after many years and the first time I really did it wrong.I was looking for a book that would give me lots of one liner ideas for topics for my journal.This book came way short of that.I'm sorry that I bought it.

Absolutely Inspiring!
My brother gave me Monica Woods's Pocket Muse for Christmas and I had already used inspiration from it to write three short stories by New Year's. Then I bought the second one which is just as good and bought a second copy of each for a friend who loved them as much as I did. These books are fabulous; filled with photos, encouragement, and prompts for artists of any kind. ... Read more

Product Description
This four volume set covers the entire spectrum of pulp and paper chemistry and technology from starting material to processes and products including market demands. This work is essential for all students of wood science and a useful reference for those working in the pulp and paper industry or on the chemistry of renewable resources.Volume 1 provides a survey of the biological and chemical structure of wood as well as an introduction to the chemical reactions used during pulp production processes. The work presents the different raw materials used for pulp production, the macroscopic and morphological construction of wood and related characterization methods, the chemical structure and arrangement of the wood polymers and extractives, biosynthesis of wood polymers, carbohydrate and lignin analysis, reactions of wood polymers in mechanical and chemical pulping and bleaching processes, biotechnical processes of relevance for the pulp and paper industry, different types of microorganisms and their modes of interaction with wood, the impact of chemical and microbiological processes on the hierarchical structure of wood and pulp. ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document, covering the life and work of Monica Wood, is an entry from Contemporary Authors, a reference volume published by Thompson Gale. The length of the entry is 1035 words. The page length listed above is based on a typical 300-word page. Although the exact content of each entry from this volume can vary, typical entries include the following information:

• Place and date of birth and death (if deceased)
• Family members
• Education
• Professional associations and honors
• Employment
• Writings, including books and periodicals
• A description of the author's work
• References to further readings about the author

Product Description
A quarterly anthology of great new short fiction byaward-winning and emerging authors, this intimate collectioncelebrates writing and honors the writer. The editors--two sistersfrom Oregon--choose stories that are beautifully written, readable,and emotionally affecting.Each collection is also visuallysatisfying with handsome cover art and story illustrations, andunusual author profiles. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A Wonderful Gift Idea!
I've been a fan of Glimmer Train since I received my first issue several years ago.Subsequently, I started a gift basket service and now include Glimmer Train Stories in my gift baskets.Customers absolutely LOVEreceiving them!For "people on the go," this collection of shortstories is easy to pick up and read when you have just a few minutes. Italso can provide hours of reading enjoyment if you have more time to spend.

Delightful, elegant, touching and unusual
Glimmer Train consistently delivers on top quality writers. This is a journal that truly cares about its writers, and it shows. The stories are carefully chosen, and are unique, original, witty-- intelligent choices. Iget excited when I see Glimmer Train on the stand!

A classy periodical with first rate short stories
Glimmer Train has fascinating short stories which hold my attention from beginning to the end.The publication itself is quite classy with personal touches, such as photos of each author as a child and personal comments bythe authors. Glimmer Train publications are absolutely first class and Ihighly recommend the publication to anyone who enjoys reading!

Great stories that I love to read!
I've been an avid reader of Glimmer Train since Issue 5 (though I was lucky enough to get the back issues before they sold out!) and look forward to its arrival in the mail. I highly recommend it! ... Read more

Product Description
17 writers.17 stories.One great state.Original, unusual, classic, tender, amazing...these are the stories of Maine writers.The Way Life Should Be is acompilation of contemporary stories by some of Maine’s best established and up and coming writers.Their stories range in length from 3 pages to 30 pages and capture everything from daily life in Maine to tales of flying babies. Maine, with Portland at its epicenter, has one of the most original and thriving writing scenes in the country.The Way Life Should Be is the must-have book that epitomizes this vibrant creative community. ... Read more