On October the fourth of the year 1773, the brigantine Jenny Nettles, merchantman out of New Bedford, made port. No sooner was she tied up than the crew was at work with block and tackle, with hammer and chisel, unshipping the figurehead. The secret origin of the Thursday Challenge will be revealed. 7:00 –Continue reading “Jenny Nettles”
Author Archives: jamesdmacdonald
A Complete Silk Act
One of the perennial topics in these parts goes something like this: “I’ve signed up for a talent show. What should I do?” Let me make a suggestion, under the rubric “everything old is new again.” In Jean Hugard’s Silken Sorcery (1937), the last chapter describes the Stillwell Silk Act. Here’s what Hugard says: CHAPTER XII THEContinue reading “A Complete Silk Act”
Alternate History
In which I come up with an idea for a novel. Here’s how to write an alternate history (or one way, anyway — no matter what you do, if it works for you, it’s right). First, find one point of divergence. Then, follow logically from that point. Add characters, dialog, and a satisfying conclusion, andContinue reading “Alternate History”
SR-F*ckin’-A
What shall I say about the SRA (Science Research Associates) reading program? They’re pretty darned proud of themselves. (Note: this post comes from the discussion here.) When I was young I went to St. Patrick’s Parochial School in Bedford, New York, where our teachers belonged to the Sisters of Charity. I’m sure they did somethingContinue reading “SR-F*ckin’-A”
Newberry Consort Happy Hour
Join the Newberry Consort for a Zoom Happy Hour this Friday, February 5th, at 5:00 pm CST and hoist your favorite libation in celebration of their Juan de Lienas Vespers CD release! They will visit with artists from the album, have fun quizzes, and give away free CDs. Feeling festive? Make their Sister Mary MargaritaContinue reading “Newberry Consort Happy Hour”
JAMES D. MACDONALD 