Author: Jenn J McLeod

Today, FastPencil, a California-based start-up, announced the beta launch of their self-publishing platform that purports to make the writing and publishing your printed or e-book a painless process.

“Whether you are writing a Best Seller like Harry Potter, collaborating on a cookbook or printing a modified version of A Christmas Carol using your kid’s names, now anyone can publish a first-rate book,” said Steve Wilson, FastPencil Co-Founder and CEO.

The big idea is the provision of a single service that allows writers to create, share, and publish their work. FastPencil provides memoir, novel, and other book templates with which to frame your project, or you can start simply with the blank page. Bloggers have the ability to upload their blog and then format it into chapters for printing or distribution, and social network integration is provided on the site so that writers can invite their friends to weigh in on their works-in-progress.

Bottom line: it costs nothing to sign up for the basic service and start writing. Check it out at www.fastpencil.com.

Painless Publishing. Too easy!!!!!! What a shame they can’t write it for us as well.

Where would any of us be without our C.P. Feel free to share this blog entry with your treasured writing partner(s).

Press PLAY and use Jennz sing-along lyrics (below)

When I am down and, my m.s. so dreary;
When troubles come and my plot burdened be;
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and crit a while with me.

You raise me up, to make me edit adverbs;
You raise me up, to watch my POV;
And I am strong, when reading criticism;
You raise me up…to more than I can be.

There is no life – no life without my writing;
Each restless word, a part of me you see;
But when you crit, I’m no longer filled with wonder,
You set me straight and help me to be me.

You raise me up, so I can edit freely;
You raise me up, to conflict being key;
And I am strong, when I now face rejections;
You raise me up…to more than I can be.
You raise me up…you’re one hell of a C.P.

Writing is not child’s play – but take a look at this 7 years old in action.

With respect and thanks to the original owners – Lyrics by Brendan Graham Music by Rolf Lovland

Blogger note: I cannot take the credit for this sensational piece of writing, but I so wanted to share it, so I thought this was as good a place as any.

I went to a dinner party last night, where I and other guests enjoyed a sip or two of excellent beverage. I awoke this morning not feeling well, with what could be described as flu-like symptoms; headache, nausea, chills, sore eyes etc.
From the results of some initial testing, I have unfortunately tested positive for what experts are now calling Wine Flu. This debilitating condition is very serious and it appears this is not an isolated case.

Reports are flooding in from all around the neighbourhood of others diagnosed with Wine Flu.

To anyone that starts to exhibit the aforementioned tell-tale signs, experts are recommending a cup of tea and a bit of a lie down.

However, should your condition worsen, you should immediately hire a DVD and take some Nurofen [Nurofen seems to be the only drug available that has been proven to help combat this unusual type of flu]. Others are reporting a McDonald’s Happy Meal can also help in some cases.

Wine Flu does not need to be life threatening, and if treated early can be eradicated within a 24-48 hour period… If not, then further application of the original liquid in similar quantities to the original dose has been shown to do the trick.
Good luck.