Macramé as Therapy

Like nearly every person growing up in the 1970s, I enjoyed creating things by hand using the hippest forms of art at the time: string art, sand art, and, of course, macramé. It was my sister—who also turned me on to '70s music and houseplants—that got me started. We would shoot out plant hangers, wall hangings, and owls as if we were some sort of factory. Two hobby stores in Medina, New York, would feed my passion, and they carried a wide selection of cords, beads, feathers, and macramé magazines. I would bike miles to make my purchases, then return home to my bedroom and go at it. We even sold some of our creations out of our garage, and I had a few plant hangers for sale at a nearby plant center.

Some of my many creations over the years. Too many to keep for myself, for sure.

Over 40 years had passed when I restarted this hobby during the pandemic. It was a way to keep busy. To not think about what was going on in the world. To shut out politics and the news of constant death. And the best thing: macramé had already been making a comeback for years. There are now several Facebook groups where you can share your creations and YouTube tutorials to learn basic knots and more complicated combinations.

Not many people know this, but sailors used to create macramé items out of rope and cord on ships during down time. They would sell them on shore. Here is picture proof of that.

Even though this particular craft is typically dominated by females, it is something I feel anyone can take up and enjoy. I will often find myself at the Goodwill store perusing the wood aisle and ceramic aisle for inexpensive bowls, pots, and anything that I can incorporate into a macramé project. Those back massagers can be broken down for large wood beads, which would otherwise be expensive to purchase.

Now I sell my macramé creations at craft & vendor fairs. I do really well, actually. I hope you will take up this wonderful hobby, too. You'll find it's a great way to relax, and the results are very satisfying.

Typical setup at a craft show. Clothes racks are great for both creating and selling product.

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New Book: A Life with Carnivorous Plants

Now on Amazon in paperback, eBook, and hardcover!

Learn how to grow, maintain, and propagate beautiful and healthy carnivorous plants: Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, sundews, and butterworts. This book is for the beginner and intermediate grower with simple and easy-to-understand instructions. Includes over 150 color photographs and how-to steps, plus a Resources chapter detailing where you can purchase plants, growing supplies, and interact with other carnivorous plant hobbyists. Propagation techniques include division, seeds, and cuttings. Within a few years you can easily double or triple your collection.

Author Victor Rook has been growing carnivorous plants since 1973. His enthusiasm for carnivorous plants started at the age of 10 when his mother purchased two Venus flytraps from a nursery in Medina, New York. Back then, there were no David Attenborough documentaries that delved deeper into these strange curiosities. And Marlin Perkins never featured carnivorous plants on Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom. So it was books that would be his main resource.

This colorful primer includes tried-and-true methods used by professional and knowledgeable amateur growers around the world. If you ever purchase a carnivorous plant for yourself, a friend, or family member, include this book as a companion. Carnivorous plants have very special needs, unlike typical houseplants. With a little help, anyone can become a successful cultivator of these wildly intriguing plants.

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The Making of an Audiobook: The Ghosts of Culpeper Antiques

There is nothing more satisfying to me as an author than hearing another person read my written words out loud. And even more so with a professional narrator skilled in understanding the spoken word: how to exude the proper emotions, time the delivery of words and pauses, and apply different dialects to different characters. Audiobooks also allow me to control the speed at which a listener takes in my words, and it frees them up from holding a book or device. They can just sit back, close their eyes, and imagine.

Though it takes a lot of time and effort to turn a written book into an audiobook, the process can be quite rewarding. Here is what it took to turn The Ghosts of Culpeper Antiques into an audiobook.

The Process

1. First, I had to have the written book completed and already published on Amazon.

2. Next, I submitted a few select pages of the book on ACX.com, the platform used by Amazon to create Audible books. Within a few hours I was receiving free auditions from narrators, sometimes 2-3 an hour. After receiving about three dozen auditions over the week, I narrowed it down to four and asked a few of them if they could alter their takes a bit to be more in line with what I had in mind for Mary, the story's main narrator, who is in her 70s. I made sure to message each person who auditioned and thanked them for their time.

I finally chose actor and narrator Elizabeth Schmidt (American Sniper, Law & Order, Grey's Anatomy). She did a wonderful job of capturing Mary's general demeanor, and just as important, her audio recording quality was superb. We worked out a Royalty-Share Plus agreement where I would pay her upfront at a reduced rate after the production and we would split the royalties from sales.

3. To help with the understanding of all 16 characters, I came up with a detailed description of each, which included their ages, general demeanors, and ethnic backgrounds. I even searched the web for photos of people that best represented what I had in mind. This made it easier for the narrator to determine the right tone and articulation for each character.

4. After I approved the initial 15 minutes, the fun began. This is where it's important for you, the author, to assist the narrator as each chapter is completed and uploaded for your review. If a character is not coming off how you had in mind, you want to guide the narrator in the right direction as soon as possible. This can be daunting, because you are hearing actual spoken words for a character that was once only in your head. 

5. There will be mistakes along the way--wrong words, mispronunciations, and delivery problems. This is to be expected. So you make a corrections spreadsheet and give it to the narrator at the end of all the recordings.

6. Once all chapters were approved, and payment was made to the narrator, I submitted the book for a final review on Audible before it was published. The entire process to create the four-hour audiobook for The Ghosts of Culpeper Antiques took two months. You will be sick of your book by then, so give yourself a good break afterward.

The Results

Here is a 2-minute snippet from Chapter 1 of The Ghosts of Culpeper Antiques, now available for FREE with a new Audible subscription. Order here. Enjoy!

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It's Not the Book, It's the Reader

It's a common belief that the quality of a book lies solely in the hands of the author. We often praise or criticize a book based on its storyline, characters, or writing style. However, it's important to recognize that sometimes the issue isn't with the book itself, but rather with the reader. Many readers approach books with different reading habits and preferences, and these factors can greatly impact their experience. From reading too fast or skipping words to struggling with concentration, there are various ways in which readers can hinder their own enjoyment of a book. Let's delve into this phenomenon.

1. Reading Too Fast

One common issue is the tendency to read too quickly. In our fast-paced society, we are often pressed for time and try to squeeze in reading whenever possible. While speed reading can be an impressive skill, it can also be detrimental to truly absorbing and savoring a book's content. When readers rush through a book, they risk missing out on important details, nuances, and subtext that contribute to the overall reading experience. The story becomes a mere sequence of events, lacking depth and emotional connection. By slowing down and allowing the words to resonate, readers can truly engage with the material and appreciate the author's craft. Read more about that here.

2. Skipping and Skimming

Skipping words or entire passages is another habit that some readers have. This behavior often stems from impatience or a desire to get to the "good parts" quickly. However, this approach undermines the storytelling and undermines the author's intention. Every word in a book is carefully chosen to convey meaning and evoke emotions. By skipping over sections, readers may miss crucial plot points, character development, or beautiful prose that adds richness to the narrative. Reading requires patience and a willingness to immerse oneself fully in the world created by the author.

3. Poor Concentration

Concentration problems also plague many readers. In today's digital age, distractions are plentiful, making it difficult for some individuals to maintain focus while reading. With smartphones, social media, and constant notifications vying for attention, it's no wonder that readers find it challenging to stay engaged with a book for extended periods. I find this is true for movies, too. This lack of concentration not only hampers comprehension but also inhibits the reader's ability to enter the story's world and connect with the characters on a deeper level. Developing mindfulness and setting aside dedicated time for reading can help mitigate these concentration issues and enhance the reading experience.

4. Spoiler Reading

Furthermore, there are readers who confess to reading the ending of a book first, unable to withstand the anticipation of how the story will conclude. I was shocked when someone told me they do this. The practice, known as "spoiler reading," disrupts the natural flow of the narrative and undermines the suspense and surprises that make a book captivating. By skipping ahead, these readers deny themselves the joy of the journey and the gradual unfolding of the plot. The satisfaction of a well-crafted ending is diminished when it is divorced from the context of the story as a whole. Embracing the uncertainty and immersing oneself fully in the narrative can lead to a more fulfilling reading experience.

5. Picking the Wrong Genre

I once had a contest winner choose my In Search of Good Times book. After starting it, she posted, "If the world was coming to an end, I would rather read tea leaves." She couldn't understand the premise of the book -- why a man would pack up and set off on a road trip to search for fictitious sitcom families. She stopped only 50 pages in. The whole point of the book was to determine why he had this sudden obsession. Had she finished the book she would have been quite surprised, and I hope fulfilled. Others tell me it's their favorite book of all time.

Turns out this critic was only into gothic/vampire books, and she was highly praised for being extra mean to authors in her reviews. (This is why many authors avoid GoodReads as a viable source of objective feedback.)

In Conclusion

It's essential to recognize that reading is a skill that requires practice and discipline. Just as we don't expect every person to run a marathon without training, we shouldn't assume that all readers are equally skilled or engage with books in the same way. Each reader brings their own unique set of habits, preferences, and challenges to the reading experience. By being aware of these habits and actively working to improve them, readers can enhance their enjoyment of books and fully appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of the authors.

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Embrace the Beauty of Slow Reading

In our fast-paced, digital world, where instant gratification and efficiency reign supreme, we often find ourselves rushing through our daily activities, barely pausing to catch our breath. This frenetic pace has permeated every aspect of our lives, including the way we consume literature. Words are gobbled up like dots in a Ms. Pac-Man game, where the goal is to move as quickly as possible. But in the realm of creative literature, there is no need to rush. No one is chasing you. Instead, it's time to embrace the beauty of slow reading – a deliberate and immersive approach that allows us to savor the nuances and emotions of the text.

Click to order The Ghosts of Culpeper Antiques.

The act of slow reading encourages us to disconnect from the distractions of the modern world and reconnect with the written word in a deeper, more meaningful way. When we read slowly, we give ourselves the opportunity to fully engage with the author's ideas, to enter their world and explore their characters, and to experience the ebb and flow of their prose.

One of the primary benefits of slow reading is the ability to appreciate the subtle intricacies of the text. Just as a gourmet meal is best savored bite by bite, creative literature is best enjoyed word by word. Every sentence is crafted with care, every word chosen deliberately. By reading slowly, we allow ourselves to fully digest the author's intentions, to unravel the layers of meaning hidden beneath the surface. We become attuned to the cadence and rhythm of the language, to the interplay of imagery and symbolism. It is through this unhurried engagement that we truly grasp the essence of the story.

Literature has the power to transport us to different times, places, and states of mind. When we rush through a book, we risk missing out on the emotional journey it offers. By taking our time, we can empathize with the characters, feel their joys and sorrows, and immerse ourselves in the emotional landscape of the narrative. We become active participants in the story, allowing ourselves to be moved, challenged, and transformed by the power of the written word.

Try adopting the practice of reading only 10-20 pages a day so that a 300-page book lasts two weeks or more. And read no faster than the speed with which you would say the words out loud. This intentional limitation allows you to delve even deeper into the text, relishing every sentence and immersing yourself fully in the author's world. Instead of devouring a book in a single sitting, extend its lifespan.

Limiting our daily reading quota not only allows us to fully absorb the nuances of the text but also grants us the opportunity for reflection and contemplation. After reading a few pages, we can set the book aside and let the ideas marinate in our minds. This pause enables us to process the author's words, to connect them with our own experiences, and to form our own interpretations. It is during these moments of reflection that the true magic of literature unfolds, as we discover personal insights and make meaningful connections with the narrative.

Savor the words of my books here and on Amazon.

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New Book: The Ghosts of Culpeper Antiques

The Ghosts of Culpeper Antiques is my first paranormal cozy mystery, where an eclectic group of spirits trapped in an antique store in Virginia forms an unlikely family and attempts to solve a century-old mystery.

Mary Worthington is the eldest, and she serves as both the group matriarch and story narrator. Through her words you learn about the others—their pasts and what brought them to the store—as well as her own life and passions. She was once an aspiring author and a successful journalist.

Throughout the book Mary talks about what spirits experience on the other side, as if providing a guidebook on what we can expect when we cross over. Can we move things? Will we feel emotions? Will we get bored? Of course, she doesn’t have all the answers, for even in the spirit world there is much to explore.

A cozy mystery engages you in the story without overly graphic violence or imagery. As far as foul language, if you can handle two sh*ts said jokingly in dialogue, then you are good to go. I recommend this book for anyone 12 and older.

The book is now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle, but you can also purchase the paperback directly from me below where I will make twice as much for the same book price. I appreciate your support. Vic

Paperback ($10.95)

Paypal accepts credit cards.

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Wrangling in Unruly Clients as Freelancers

I like to pride myself on being able to take an unsure, and at times belligerent new client and turning them into a Victor believer. When people reach out to me for assistance, I do my best through an initial phone call to make them feel comfortable working with me. I let them know that I will treat their project as if it were my own. Not only will I deliver the goods, but I will do it at a reasonable price and with a quick turnaround. I have a proven record, and I am happy that many clients continue to use me on future projects.

About one out of four new clients will come at me with a tinge of distrust, possibly because they’ve been shortchanged in other work relationships, or they were not satisfied with a finished product somewhere else. I get it. They will have a lot of questions. They will want to make sure you understand their project, and they want to get their money’s worth. So, I spell out everything I will provide in detail in my invoice before we start the process of working together. Phone call made, invoice paid. Now we begin.

This is where it can be challenging for freelancers. Because of the one-on-one relationship, boundaries can be blurred as to what is expected of you. In a corporate setting, where rules are rigid with gatekeepers and thick contracts, the creative people doing the actual work are often shielded. They don’t have to listen to the banter of a demanding customer. But for us freelancers, some clients think it’s okay to, for a better word, make your life miserable.

Here are three examples of unruly clients, and how best to handle them:

1. The would-be client that asks a lot of questions.

Even though I produced a two-minute video that concisely details the process of book publishing with me, I’ve had potential new clients that go on for weeks with back-and-forth emails asking every question imaginable. Three or four detailed message responses should be more than enough.

Solution:
At some point you have to cut these people off. If you’re spending more time replying to emails than you would doing the actual work, it is a loss for you. When you are sure you’ve given enough of yourself, for free, politely end your last email with, “I hope I’ve answered your questions and you now feel comfortable working with me. I must pursue other work at this time, so when you are ready I will be happy to consider your project.” If they want to continue exchanging communications, tell them that you can provide more information with a consulting fee, and get the money up front.

2. The client that thinks they’ve bought you.

You’ve spelled out the work in great detail, but now the client wants you to do more than outlined. They want you to talk on the phone often about things that can be readily handled in an email. They want you on what seems like a 24/7 schedule, like you’re a doctor on call. What they really want is a constant handholding and reassurance.

This can be so stressful because it can feel as though they are using the intimacy of the one-on-one relationship to take advantage of you. You desperately want to please them, but they are making you do more work than you are being paid for. Sometimes, a lot more. And even if they want to pay you, it may not fit well into your current schedule and other obligations.

Solution:
You have to set strict boundaries from the beginning. Most clients are decent and seem well prepared. But even some of those can turn into monsters over time. Like a bad roommate that came in with a smile, you never really know how they will turn out.

Define deadline dates so work doesn’t meander over time and feel like a quagmire. We start on this day and completion must be on this day. Other clients are waiting and you can’t let something drag on. Put those dates in your invoice and make it clear to the client in writing. Always have a paper trail.

3. The client that wants to do your job their way.

There’s a reason why they came to you. They needed help and you have the skills to give them what they want. You know what it takes, down to the technical intricacies of working with certain programs and meeting technical specifications. But for some reason, they think they know your job better than you do.

Solution:
Again, define the process. Spell out each step and what is expected of them. Tell them that you are being hired to do the job for them, and to trust your knowledge. If they want to do it a different way, find out before you agree to working with them. If it’s going to take more time, or actually not work at all, let them know. And that they will need to pay you for extra, unnecessary steps.

Flexibility is key in working relationships, but it shouldn’t come to the point where you feel like you are being held hostage. Many of my first-time clients were relieved that the process ended up being so simple. They trusted me from the start, or I wrangled them in enough to get the job done right. Those end up being some of my best clients.

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