Book Blurbs/Do You Have What It Takes/Jesus Film/Testimony/Sleep Better

1. Although short, book cover blurbs are often more difficult to write than the manuscript. How do you condense a whole story into a few lines? Zoe M. McCarthy shares what she considers an easy way to write a book blurb.

2.  Susan DeFreitas posts at Jane Friedman's blog on, "How to Tell If You Have What It Takes to be a Writer."

3. Breaking Christian News reports on the Jesus film being translated into Sign Language. This will enable 70 million people to be reached with the Gospel.

4.  Pastor Tony Evans shares the glimpses his wife, Lois, had of heaven just before she passed away from cancer. I thought you might like this testimony. (Note: Tony and Lois are the parents of actress, Patricia Shirer. She starred in The War Room.)

5.  Plants make me smile. Here are some that actually help you sleep better. Check out this post at DIY For Daily.

Writers:  What writer tasks do you find most daunting and why?

Readers:  What general interest/reader topics would you like to see covered here?

Photo Credit:  Sergio Ianni

Too Old?/Power of Story/China/Devo/Slow Cooker

1. Think you're too old to write? Think again. Jessica Ferguson shares her journey as a septugenarian, at Patti Shene's blog.

2.  Tim Suddeth posts at The Write Conversation about, "The Power of Story to Bridge Divisions." In this age of FB, Twitter, etc., it's become harder and harder to truly connect with people. I think you'll enjoy this post.

3. Christian Headlines reports on China's renewed persecution of Christians and the shutting down of churches.

4.  Julie Lavender posts at The Write Conversation on Vision For Writing in the New Year. While we're in the second month of 2020, I thought you'd enjoy her approach.

5. One cooking tool that's been around a long time is the slow cooker. Yummly answers questions about this appliance. Although simple to use, there are some things you shouldn't cook in it.

Writers:  Which writing link spoke to you? Please share your thoughts.

Readers: What's your favorite cooking tool? Why?

Photo Credit: Sam LeVan

Story Openings/Age/Oregon's Bias/Devo/Valentine Recipe

1. Jane Friedman gives advice on 5 Common Story Openings to Avoid. Knowing what not to do can save you a ton of editing/re-writing.

2.  Literary Agent, Rachelle Gardner posts on, "Does Age Matter For Writers?" Both young writers and older writers have asked this question. Her answer made a lot of sense and provided encouragement.

3.  WND reports on judges reviewing evidence of Oregon's bias toward Christian bakers.

4.  Kim DeHoog, at CBN.com posts a devotional called, "Love Is A Verb."

5.  HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! Here are some cute Lollipop Cookie Valentines, from Allrecipes, to make for that special someone (spouse/kids/grandkids) in your life.

Writers:  What is the hardest part of writing that all-important first page?

Readers:  What makes you give up on a book? When does it happen - first page, first chapter, etc.?

Photo Credit:  nas kamu

Journey/Story Time/Israeli Intel/Devo/Minestrone Soup

1.   We all need encouragement at times. Lori Hatcher compares the writer's journey to her walking regimen. Check it out at The Write Conversation.

2.   Kathryn Craft, at Writer Unboxed, shows how to manipulate story time for maximal effect. Since I write suspense, I found this article fascinating and insightful.

3.  I reserve this space for news items and current events that might interest my readers. I came across this WND article about how Israel's intelligence agency is helping foil terrorists worldwide. They've certainly had plenty of experience.

4.  Rhonda Rhea, at The Write Conversation, talks about unselfish love.

5.  Brr! There's nothing like soup for a cold winter day. I discovered this Instant Pot Minestrone soup at Together As a Family.

Writers and Readers:  What are your favorite features on the Friday posts? Please feel free to suggest other topics.

Photo Credit:  Carlos Paes