STORIES, STORIES

One of the best things about being a writer in this day and age is the endless stream of resources on the craft available to us. It’s also probably one of the worst things, because in truth, there’s so much vague writing advice floating around that’s really not that helpful. I have, however, read a few books this year that have really helped me understand and practice some writing techniques. They’re rich with practical tips, are straightforward and easy to follow, and they leave room for you to try them out for yourself.  The Glamour of Grammar This isn’t your school textbook on English grammar, and I wouldn’t say it’s for beginners – it goes deeper than your basic verb tenses, but helps you review them anyway. What I enjoyed most were the chapters on archaic grammar rules and the evolution of the language and what constitutes acceptable. The book is also very, very Not Boring. I recommend it for all writers and editors.  It me, your father. Best thing ...

Every once in a while, like the gangsta I am, I drop Gs at the bookstore, and then just hope I got books that are worth it. I got The Holographic Universe for SR 60 at Virgin Megastore (you guyz, remember when a paperback cost SR 39 at most?), and it was well worth the money. I mean Gs. Mr. Shakur!! *shakes fist* My interest in Physics started last year when I found myself constantly surrounded by conversations on the topic, thanks to friends like Omair , Faisal and Squeek .  I then decided to write a novel loosely based on general physics, a ballsy move considering the only background I had on it was 2 years of the high school subject, from which I remember almost nothing.  I read several introductory books on it, like Stephen Hawking's The Grand Design and Michael Brooks' 13 Things That Don't Make Sense , and found it a little fascinating.  Probably like most people who read that Michael Brooks book, I tried to find different ways to explain the ...