The author spotlighted in this Ink Splat is Tracy Maurer.
The Challenge: “Dictionary Dab”
Try a “Dictionary Dab” when you’re looking to spark new ideas for your writing. Turn to a random page in your dictionary, and take a few minutes to read a few of the entries and definitions until you find three that interest you (perhaps the words are fun to say, have unusual meanings, or they’re simply new words to know). “Dab” them into your manuscript, if you have an existing piece, or write a new paragraph (or short story) that smoothly uses the three words. They should sound like they belong in your work, which is why I say it’s a dab and not a plop!
Submit your responses by emailing submit@younginklings.org and you might be published on our website! Even if it’s not July anymore, you can still take the challenge and submit your work. We love to see your writing anytime.
Spotlight ON…Tracy Maurer: Noah Webster’s Fighting Words
An Interview with author Tracy Maurer
1. What drew you to writing non-fiction? Have you always been curious and into researching new things?
I love to learn! Nonfiction requires oodles of research, so I’m always learning new things. But I did NOT like nonfiction when I was a kid — so much of it was dull. So, when I write nonfiction now, I challenge myself to write what I wish I could have read back then.
2. What is something new or surprising you learned about Noah Webster while researching for the book?
Noah wrote his big dictionary with a quill pen. I’d have a drippy mess, wouldn’t you? He also knew 20 different languages, played the flute, and liked to dance. He wasn’t always a pleasant guy, but he certainly was interesting!
3. We learn in your book that Noah Webster believed that the dictionary should change along with the way people use words and language. Even today, people still debate whether a dictionary should reflect language or if it should be the rule book for language. What are your thoughts?
It’s a tricky debate. Right now, I think we need both, as long as the rule book is updated frequently. How else would we know “emoji” instead of “eemojee”?
4. Do you have anything else coming out this year?
The “Fear Fest” series includes three of my books: Eerie ESP, Spooky Haunted Houses, and Chilling Ancient Curses. My book on elevators comes up this fall too (ha! elevator humor — this book won’t let you down!).
5. Lastly, any advice for our young writers?
Someone told me to write the book that I wanted to read. It’s not new advice, but even old advice can be good sometimes. 🙂
A special thanks to Tracy Maurer!
Locate your local independent book store to purchase Noah Webster’s Fighting Words, it is also available at most other nationwide bookstores or online.
