Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Twofer Twosday With Extras

It’s that time of the week again. I get to tell you what I’m reading and have to prove that I’ve been working on a manuscript.
I’ve managed to get through a few books lately and last week finally got to the one that brings me to this week’s selection. I’ve had the book for a few years after rescuing it from a garage sale. I’d been meaning to read it since I found it. In fact, I’ve wanted to read it for several decades. Now I have, and the TBR pile is getting smaller.

From Black Beauty, The Autobiography of a Horse, by Anna Sewell (Masterpiece Library, Magnum Books, 1968):

“When he was gone my driver began to flop the reins about and whip the harness, by which I understood that I was to go on, which of course I did, glad that the stone was gone, but still in a good deal of pain.
That was the sort of experience we job horses often come in for.”

I’m plugging away on the second draft of my first manuscript and realize there’s a long road ahead for it. I’ve thrown in a bit extra for the sake of giving readers a better idea of what I’m on about.

From The Legend of Shallal:

“The Sleepweavers have been at them and they’re prepared. I’ll meet them at their game field and lead them to the tunnels. There’s a young one, Nurl, that the Sleepweavers have given some extra attention. I think he’ll be the main toner.”
“How old is he?”
“Three.”
#
For more, or to find out how to participate, please see the Women of Mystery.
And thank you for stopping by. I appreciate it.

11 comments:

David Cranmer said...

I dig the word Sleepweavers. I wanna know more.

Hilary said...

Though I must admit that I've never read Black Beauty,I hope that one day, The Legend of Shallal will be among Masterpiece Library choices.

Leah J. Utas said...

David, thanks. It's gratifying to hear it.

Hilary, what a wonderful compliment.

the Bag Lady said...

I agree with Hilary! And I hope that day comes sooner, rather than later! :D

Leah J. Utas said...

Oh, thank you, Cousin.

Reb said...

The lines from Black Beauty are vaguely familiar...must have read it as a kid. Still anxiously awaiting the chance to read the entire manuscript.

Leah J. Utas said...

Reb, thanks.

messymimi said...

Funny, I was just thinking about that particular section of Black Beauty the other day. Where he got the stone in his shoe, and was getting lamer, and the twit driving him had no knowledge of horses.

This was Anna Sewell's only novel, and it was a doozy, helping spearhead a change in how work horses were treated.

I agree with David, your own writing always leaves me wanting to know more of the story.

Leah J. Utas said...

Messymimi, Sewell accomplished what she set out to do. When writing brings about social change, that is when it shines.

Why, thank you. Someday. . .

Thomma Lyn said...

I love the title "The Legend of Shallal!" And "Sleepweavers" -- way cool. Your WIPs always sound so intriguing!

You have an award from me, my friend -- check out my blog for details. :)

Leah J. Utas said...

Thomma Lyn, thanks for the award. That's so kind. I'll do my best with the questions.

Thanks for your kindness re: WIP.