Gail Carson Levine focuses on writing books she loves, believing the act of writing to be a difficult craft. Her works often explore the imaginative and the magical, drawing readers into richly developed worlds. Levine's approach emphasizes the positive and inspirational aspects of storytelling. She seeks to create narratives that resonate with her audience, highlighting the magic inherent in the creative process.
Set in a whimsical world, the story follows Ella, who is cursed with the gift of obedience, forcing her to comply with every command given to her. As she navigates her challenges, including a tyrannical stepmother and a charming prince, Ella embarks on a quest to break her curse. Themes of empowerment and self-discovery are woven throughout her journey, showcasing her resilience and determination to reclaim her agency in a society that seeks to control her.
The collection explores a wide emotional spectrum, addressing themes of war, nostalgia, and the complexities of human relationships. Poems like "Manufactured Rage" and "Reunion" evoke memories of lost connections, while "L.E.D. R.I.P" juxtaposes humor and tragedy. Levine's unique style blends the fantastical with everyday experiences, featuring characters from mythology and pop culture. The language is accessible yet profound, transforming ordinary moments into something extraordinary, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives through a nuanced lens.
In Writing Magic , Newbery Honor author Gail Carson Levine shares her secrets of great writing. She shows how you, too, can get terrific ideas for stories, invent great beginnings and endings, write sparkling dialogue, develop memorable characters—and much, much more. She advises you about what to do when you feel stuck—and how to use helpful criticism. Best of all, she offers writing exercises that will set your imagination on fire. With humor, honesty, and wisdom, Gail Carson Levine shows you that you, too, can make magic with your writing.
Gail Carson Levine provides an engaging exploration of the writing process, drawing from her successful blog to offer insights into crafting compelling fiction and poetry. With a focus on making stories vibrant and captivating, she addresses common questions from aspiring writers, sharing her expertise to help them develop their skills and become accomplished authors. This companion to Writing Magic is both informative and enjoyable, making it an essential resource for anyone looking to enhance their writing abilities.
Born to Jewish radical parents in Chicago in 1939, Judy Cohen grew up to be Judy Chicago—one of the most daring and controversial artists of her generation. Her works, once disparaged and misunderstood by the critics, have become icons of the feminist movement, earning her a place among the most influential artists of her time. In Becoming Judy Chicago, Gail Levin gives us a biography of uncommon intimacy and depth, revealing the artist as a person and a woman of extraordinary energy and purpose. Drawing upon Chicago’s personal letters and diaries, her published and unpublished writings, and more than 250 interviews with her friends, family, admirers, and critics, Levin presents a richly detailed and moving chronicle of the artist’s unique journey from obscurity to fame, including the story of how she found her audience outside of the art establishment. Chicago revolutionized the way we view art made by and for women and fundamentally changed our understanding of women’s contributions to art and to society. Influential and bold, The Dinner Party has become a cultural monument. Becoming Judy Chicago tells the story of a great artist, a leader of the women’s movement, a tireless crusader for equal rights, and a complicated, vital woman who dared to express her own sexuality in her art and demand recognition from a male-dominated culture.
In "A Fairy's Mistake," Rosella's life changes dramatically when a misguided fairy causes her to spit out precious gems with every word. Meanwhile, in "For Biddle's Sake," Parsley, transformed into a toad, grapples with his longing for his prince. Both stories explore themes of enchantment, transformation, and the whimsical consequences of fairy magic, showcasing the unique challenges the characters face in their fantastical worlds.
When plague strikes Bamarre, Princess Addie must fulfill an ancient prophecy. Brave and adventurous, Princess Meryl dreams of fighting dragons and protecting the kingdom of Bamarre. Shy and fearful, Princess Addie is content to stay within the safety of the castle walls. The one thing that the sisters share is their unwavering love for each other. The tables are turned, however, when the Gray Death leaves Meryl fatally ill. To save her sister, meek Princess Addie must find the courage to set out on a dangerous quest filled with dragons, unknown magic, and death itself. Time is running out, and the sisters' lives—and the future of the kingdom of Bamarre—hang in the balance.
How can a fairy's blessing be such a curse? At her birth, Ella of Frell was given a foolish fairy's gift—the "gift" of obedience. Ella must obey any order given to her, whether it's hopping on one foot for a day or chopping off her own head! But strong-willed Ella does not tamely accept her fate. She goes on a quest, encountering ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, fairy godmothers, and handsome princes, determined to break the curse—and live happily ever after.
Set in a fantastical realm, the story unfolds with enchanting adventures and captivating characters. As the protagonist embarks on a quest, they encounter magical beings and face formidable challenges that test their courage and resolve. Themes of friendship, bravery, and the struggle between good and evil weave throughout the narrative, creating a rich tapestry that draws readers into a world of imagination and wonder. This tale promises to transport readers on a journey filled with excitement and discovery.
The story weaves together classic fairy tale elements, featuring a kind sister contrasted with her cruel sibling, a charming prince, and a spiteful fairy. It includes iconic moments such as a hundred-year slumber, a hidden pea beneath layers of mattresses, and the transformative power of a kiss. These elements create a rich tapestry of adventure, magic, and the enduring battle between good and evil, inviting readers into a whimsical world of enchantment and moral lessons.
