January 26, 2012
by Valya
3 Comments
When I do interviews or visit with book clubs, people often ask how I could write about an elderly woman in The Silence of Trees with such authenticity. Sometimes I answer with a variation of, “She’s certainly inspired by people … Continue reading
January 23, 2012
by Valya
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Some moments make creative ripples in the Universe. They may be quiet affairs of a half dozen or less people. They may be large gatherings, well-publicized and documented for posterity. Sometimes all we have are whispers, hints of an evening … Continue reading
January 12, 2012
by Valya
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Last weekend I sent out the first announcements about the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame’s Evening to Honor Gene Wolfe. I haven’t been this excited about an event since my book launch last October. There’s a question often asked at parties … Continue reading
January 1, 2012
by Valya
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Words. When I see light hit the tree branches during a December sunset on a particularly calm day, and it reminds me of the way life is fragile and hope is present even if for a fleeting moment, I try … Continue reading
December 12, 2011
by Valya
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Last weekend we went to the Museum of Science and Industry where my oldest daughter performed with her Ukrainian folk dance group as part of the Christmas Around the World celebration. If you’ve never seen the exhibit, 50 trees are … Continue reading
December 6, 2011
by Valya
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As a child, my favorite part of going to Mass at Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church was the music. The walls, covered with their beautiful icons, were a feast for the eyes and my young imagination, but it … Continue reading
December 5, 2011
by Valya
1 Comment
I’m trying to finish up these half-written blog entries, so expect a few in rapid succession. Last month I participated in the first Chicago Book Expo, held at the abandoned Borders in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. The Chicago Writers House Project created a … Continue reading
November 30, 2011
by Valya
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A quick post, while working on others. I really enjoyed this conversation between Connie Willis and Neil Gaiman filmed at World Fantasy Con 2011. Charming and inspiring, it’s a great one for writers and aspiring writers to watch. {lang: ‘ar’}
November 22, 2011
by Valya
4 Comments
On Friday night, I made my way up the stairs to the Everleigh Social Club with a friend, to attend the 2011 Naked Girls Reading Literary Award Gala. The fabulous loft space was candlelit and lushly decorated. We were among … Continue reading
November 18, 2011
by Valya
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Tomorrow is the Naked Girls Reading Literary Gala and I am one of 5 finalists to have my work read by the lovely ladies of the Everleigh Club in Chicago. Reservations are required. You can purchase tickets in advance here. … Continue reading