Black Cloud Rising, Becoming a Better Writer, and Writerly Wranglings

Podcast: Download (Duration: 1:06:31 — 61.0MB)

In this episode 352, we feature David Wright Faladé and his Civil War novel Black Cloud Rising, which Charles Frazier describes as “richly detailed, [a] grippingly told story [that] breathes life into a revolutionary moment when the US moved a vital step forward toward achieving the ideals we’ve always proclaimed.” Plus Pernille Hughes offers tips on submitting and publishing, and Charlotte Lit shares wisdom on becoming a better writer.

Today’s Featured Authors

David Wright Faladé Time Stamp: 4:34

Black Cloud Rising recounts a little-known chapter of American history from 1863 in which the African Brigade, a newly formed unit of former slaves, set out to fight rebel guerillas in coastal Virginia and North Carolina. In a starred review, Booklist calls this book “a masterful depiction of the precarious nature of Black life during the war and of slavery’s unrelenting assault on human dignity.”

Pernille Hughes Time Stamp: 46:40

From Pernille Hughes’ blog post “Random Nuggets for Writerly Wranglings,” we take the following points:

  • Taking an honest inventory of your own flaws can provide great inspiration for writing characters.
  • Build an organic community of writer friends on social media with whom you have genuine connections. Then when you have something to publish and promote, they’ll be happy to support you.
  • Celebrate the victories of your writing life, whether they’re large like a book launch or small like a nice piece of feedback.
  • When in doubt, chocolate takes the sting out of rejection.

2-Minute Tip: Time Stamp: 39:15

Don’t miss Charlotte Lit co-founder and executive director Paul Reali’s tip about becoming a better writer. 

Community Updates:

         Listen to our episode for updates on the Charlotte writing community, including events from the Charlotte Writers Club, Charlotte Lit, and more.

Book Recommendations: Time Stamp: 58:00

         Hannah recommends:

         Hey, Kiddo by Jarret Krosoczka

         Sarah recommends: 

         The God of Good Looks by Breanne McIvor

         Landis recommends: 

         Billy Budd, Sailor by Herman Melville

Mark West, Storied Charlotte Blog, recommends:

Can’t Hide Love by Cheris Hodges

The Write Quotes Series:

Go to https://charlottereaderspodcast.com/writequotes/ to learn more about our series of quote books, download Book 1 for free, or support the show and get more free books by joining our street team.