Write Your Heart Out: David-Matthew Barnes

Women Who Rock: Red Five

2012-01-30T11:45:00.001-05:00

What's happened to women in rock? I'm not talking about the manufactured pop radio-friendly stuff that's horribly mismarketed as "punk rock" to the unknowing younger generation.

Save for a few true bands (I offer The Dollyrots as a perfect example of a female fronted rock band that works, mostly because Kelly Ogden is a brilliant musician), the musical landscape is sadly lacking of girls who aren't afraid to kick some serious audio ass.

Where are the Courtney Loves, the Veruca Salts, the Kim Deals, and the Joan Jetts of the new era? Where are the angry girls who actually know how to play a guitar?

I ask these questions because over the weekend, I rediscovered one of the all-time greatest girl rock bands (which sadly very few people have heard of): Red Five. The fact that these women (Jenni McElrath and Betty Carmellini ) never became household names/music icons is a great shame.

Do yourself a favor. Go buy/download/worship their 41-song anthology. By the second track, you'll be just as in love as I was, still am, and always will be.

The anthology includes (in its entirety) the band's materpiece album Flash.

Exclusive Preview! An Excerpt from Ambrosia

2012-01-26T12:58:00.001-05:00

Drunk Dialing My BFF
Darla at 3 A.M.

“Hellooooo?”

“The sonovabitch has left me with nothing and I don’t know what I’m gonna dooooo!”

“Who is thisssss?”

“It’s Tinaaaaa.”

“Tina?”

“Your best friend.”

“Tina, what happened? Who’s dead?”

“He took everything.”

“Oh my God. Were you robbed?”

“There’s nothing left!”

“Tina, listen to me. Get out of the apartment. He might still be there. He could have a gun.”

“It’s Thanksgiving. And, it’s my birthday, too.”

“What are you talking about? This is Chicago. People are murdered on Thanksgiving all the time.”

“I dressed up like an Indian, Darla.”

“Oh, shit. Are you in your kitchen? You’re standing in your kitchen and you’re naked and you’re crying, aren’t you?”

“I was a squaw today.”

“You dressed up like a squaw? On Thanksgiving?”

“Yes.”

“Tina, why would you do that? People might think you’re racist.”

“My father thinks I’m useless. He called me vapid, Darla.”

“Well, honey, you are vapid.”

“So I went to a shelter.”

“You’re in a shelter? Did Shawn hit you? Doesn’t he know I’m Italian? I have cousins, damn it. You tell him --.”

“He left me.”

“What?”

“I came home from the food shelter. I served dinner to homeless people all night.”

“Is that why you’re dressed like an Indian?”

“Yes.”

“Are you still wearing the costume?”

“Yes.”

“No, you’re not.”

“No. Just the feathers. It’s a headdress. That’s what the lady at the costume shop told me.”

“You dressed up like an Indian to serve dinner at a food shelter on Thanksgiving?”

“I wanted to be festive. I wanted to prove to everyone that I’m not vapid. But a homeless man called me Pocahontas. And the lady at the shelter said that I was insensitive, too.”

“Well, honey, you usually are. You completely forgot my thirtieth birthday last month, I might remind you.”

“He left me a note.”

“The robber left you a note? Oh my God, he’s coming back to kill you.”

“There’s no robber. But, I wish there was one.”

“You’ve completely lost your mind.”

“No. Just my heart.”

“Where’s Shawn? Let me talk to him. I need to tell him to put you to bed.”

“Didn’t you hear me? Darla, he’s gone.”

“Well, where is he?”

“Boca Raton. He left me a note. They moved to an alligator farm.”

“Well, when’s he coming back?”

“The twelfth of never.”

“He really left you?”

“He met another girl.”

“The college cheerleader with the fake boobs?”

“Her name is Sally.”

“She thought he was a good musician.”

“He told me she was harmless. Just a fan.”

“I didn’t know Shawn had fans.”

“Me either. He was a lousy guitar player.”

“Well, honey, what are you going to do now?”

“I have no idea.”

“Don’t cry.”

“I’m not.”

“Yes, you are.”

“I am.”

“You’re not vapid.”

“But I’m single now.”

“You’re eating something.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Yes, you are. You’re chewing like a cow in my ear.”

“It’s a turkey leg.”

“Where did you get a turkey leg? You don’t cook.”

“A pilgrim gave it to me.”

“Oh my God, you will burn in hell.”

“We both will. We knew that when we were fifteen.”

“You stole food from the shelter, didn’t you?”

“Yes.”

“What am I going to do with you?”

“I’m a thief eating stolen food from the bottom of my purse.”

“That’s disgusting.”

“Shit! The purse just broke.”

“The one I bought you at Saks?”

“Yeah, it’s in pieces. All over the kitchen floor.”

“Tina, it’s going to be okay.”

“Just like my heart.”

“I promise you. Everything will be fine.”

“Fuck!”

“I’m getting dressed. I’ll be there in fifteen minutes.”

Ambrosia will be available exclusively in eBook editions on March 12th!

New Projects in the New Year

2012-01-03T02:35:00.002-05:00

2012 already promises to be the busiest (and most productive) year yet.

Here's the lowdown on the writing projects you can expect from me in the next twelve months.

NOVELS

Ambrosia

Justin Holt is a lonely barista living in Chicago. He spends his days in college and his evenings working at Clouds, a coffee shop owned by his lesbian boss and best friend, Starsky. When Diego Delgado, the hot Latin guitarist for the rock band The Jetsetters, wanders in for a cup of coffee, a spark is instantly ignited between the two young men. As The Jetsetters skyrocket from obscurity to super stardom, Justin fights with everything he has to make certain his new relationship survives, despite the chaos surrounding them. When the demands of instant fame and an unexpected tragedy take their toll on Diego and threaten his flourishing career, Justin is forced to make a difficult decision.

Available in paperbook and eBook editions on September 18, 2012!

Wonderland

After her mother loses her battle to cancer, fifteen-year-old Destiny Moore moves from Chicago to Avalon Cove, a mysterious island in South Carolina. There, she starts a new life working part-time as a magician's assistant and living with her eccentric Uncle Fred and his hottie husband Clark. Destiny is soon befriended by two outcasts, Tasha Gordon and Topher McGentry. She accepts their invitation to accompany them to a place called Wonderland, a former boarding house owned by the enigmatic Adrianna Marveaux. It's there Destiny meets and falls in love with Dominic, Tasha becomes enamored with Juliet, and Topher gives his heart to Pablo. When Destiny uncovers the reason she and her friends have really been brought to Wonderland, she's faced with the most crucial choice of her life.

Available in paperback and eBook editions on February 13, 2013!

STAGE PLAYS

Hell with the Lid Off

Without air conditioning, technology, and everyday conveniences to fuel their addictions and self-destructive behavior, three couples reach their breaking points at a new age summer retreat in this comedic look at modern love. Barbara is on the verge of insanity due to a self-imposed juice fast. Her caffeine addicted husband Gary is in a permanent bad mood since quiting coffee. Julianna is trying to shed her prom queen image by dating Vertigo, a bisexual bad boy. Defeated by his partner's habitual infidelity, Tyler poses an ultimatum to Kostas. As the humidity and Southern heat intensifies, tempers flare, truths are revealed, and hearts are mended and broken.

We Never Made it to Paris

Finalist in the Saints and Sinners Playwriting Competition! This award-winning new play is an innovative and creative fusion of language, music, movement, dance, photography and light. The story spans over the course of eighteen years in the lives of two men, Eros, a former model, and Bird, a former actor. Fearing that real love does not exist, Bird sabotages their young affair, only to realize years later that they are soul mates.

Fractured

Nominated for two Elly Awards, including Best Original Script. The night before Anthony Trevino is about to embark on a road trip to a university he's transferring to, his manic and suicidal classmate, Wendy Hatfield, confesses her obsessive love for him. Their tumultuous relationship reaches a fevered pitch when Wendy tries to convince Anthony that he's to blame for his father's self-inflicted death. Set in the winter of 1965, this explosive drama explores the blurred line between love and hate.

*This play was originally produced in an earlier, one-act version under the title of Wendy's Hurricane.

ONE-ACT PLAYS

Boxcar

Unable to attend their high school dance together, Austin and Harley decide to skip Homecoming and seek refuge in an abandoned boxcar. There, they dream of escaping the ultra conservative small town they live in, hoping to discover a place where they can exist and love without fear. This heartbreaking drama features powerful roles for two young actors.

The Seventh of August

Erica's relationship of ten years has ended without her knowing how or why. Lloyd's girlfriend has slept with all of his friends and two of his relatives. When Erica loses her parking ticket in the underground garage that Lloyd is the new customer service mananger of, their shattered lives and bruised hearts collide is this offbeat romantic comedy for two actors.

That Bitch Brenda Stole My Lip Gloss (And I Want it Back)

Fed up with the cruel antics of a lip gloss-stealing mean girl named Brenda, fifteen-year-old Jenessa is faced with the opportunity to seek revenge by outing her nemesis to their entire school when she discovers that Brenda has carefully hidden the truth
that she's a lesbian.

SCREENPLAYS

Scare Me, Kill Me

Do you wanna play? Five strangers are selected to compete in a terrifying test of their ability to survive while playing a secret game called Scare Me, Kill Me. Blindfolded and taken to a nightmarish location, each player must survive a night of horror while being pursued by a menacing knife-wielding figure, intent on scaring them out of the competition.

Made from Scratch

When the lives of four women merge, each experiences a life-changing moment of truth. Longing for her former wild days as a party-hopping powerful executive, Claudia is secretly strategizing her escape from her dull life as a Southern housewife. Refusing to rely on welfare, Tameka struggles with working two jobs, attending night school, and raising her eight-year-old-son. When she's summoned home by her estranged mother, Victoria suddenly realizes that what's missing in her life is love: a realization prompted by the sudden admission by her female colleague, Danielle, that Victoria is the secret object of her desires. After Sahara accepts a proposal from a man she only knows for three months in order to escape her home life where she's been an emotional crutch for her overly dependent mother, Sahara quickly realizes her marriage is a mistake.

2011: Seventeen Steps Forward + A Few Leaps

2011-12-31T18:47:00.003-05:00

2011 has left me exhausted, breathless, overwhelmed, grateful, invigorated, and in-between variations of each.

To say I had an incredible year is an understatement. This year was ah-mazing.

Here are the highlights from one heckuva crazy/cool year:

Around the World (Or At Least the US)

Edward and I in Staunton, Virginia during a
mini East Coast book tour.

Travel was the word of the year. From Las Vegas to Philadelphia to Amelia Island to New Orleans to a cross country road trip to New Mexico, my travel schedule was exhilarating and insane.

I was a guest author at over a dozen events, conferences, and book signings including the Georgia Council of Teachers English Conference, Muhlenberg College, the Amelia Island Book Festival, the Decatur Book Festival, and KillerCon.

Read: 8 States in 4 Days
Read: Saints and Sinners: A Recap

Center Stage (Or Being a Censored Playwright)

The stars of Sky Lines:
Jaime White, Jacoya Smith, and Bobbi Leah

Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me got me censored in Boston. Baby in the Basement was an official selection for the NYC 15 Minute Play Festival and the 2011 FronteraFest in Austin. Better Places to Go went to NYC for a month. Are You All Right in There? hit a milestone with the 25th production. After a ten year wait, Sloe Gin Fizz was finally published (thank you JAC Publishing), along with my first-ever trilogy of plays: a collection written for and about women titled Don't Mention It. And Sky Lines was performed to standing ovations in a history-making production starring three of my talented students.

Read: Sky Lines Makes History
Read: Are You All Right in There?
Read: Don't Mention It: A Trilogy of Plays for Women
Read: The Kiss That Got Me Censored

Don't Judge A Book (By Its Reviews)

Swimming to Chicago earned me the worst review(s) of my career (and, in all fairness, some of the best) and then went on to garner me the highest accolade to date when the novel was recognized by the American Library Association. Regardless, the book received more press than any other project I've ever written. Love it or hate it, I stand behind Swimming to Chicago. The emails I receive from young people who have read the book are a testament of why the book had to be written. No apologies. No regrets.

Accidents Never Happen took ten years to write, is my personal favorite (I consider this novel to be my strongest writing to date), and earned me my first 5-star review. While many people have read Accidents Never Happen, I feel this book was overlooked this year. I still have faith in it. A tremendous amount of faith. If you only read one book I've written, read this one.

Mesmerized surprised everyone (including me) by winning the 2011 LGBT Rainbow Award.

I wrote two novels this year: The Jetsetters and Wonderland, both of which will be released in 2012. These novels mark a departure from anything I've written previously. The reaction to them will be interesting, to say the least.

Read: Accidents Never Happen Receives a 5 Star Review!
Read: The Facts of Life (my response to a critic)
Read: Swimming to Chicago Recognized by the American Library Association
Read: Mesmerized Wins 2011 LGBT Rainbow Award
Read: An Article/Interview from Ianyan Magazine About Swimming to Chicago
Read: Out in Print: Review of Swimming to Chicago

Wax Poetic (In a Manner of Speaking)

No one was more surprised than me when my poem Walking to K-Mart to Buy a Dolly Parton Album won the 2011 Hart Crane Poetry Award. The poem was featured in an issue of The Southeast Review and has quickly generated more reader response than any poem I've written before or since.

One of the most important projects I participated in this year was serving as a poet for the powerful art exhibit Graphic Intervention: 25 Years of the International AIDS Poster. I was asked to write five original poems (each inspired by an International AIDS Poster), which I read at the Museum of Design in Atlanta. It was one of the most challenging and rewarding experience as a writer this year.

Read: An article in A&U about the poetry reading at MODA (includes a poem I wrote for the occasion).
Read: My poem Harm's Way in Red Booth Review.

Inspiration (Human Kindness)

One of the greatest 2011 stories I have to tell is how actress/writer extraordinaire Nia Vardalos offered her support to one of my novels and in doing so referred to what I wrote about her as "THE nicest thing ever said about me."

I also received a beautiful response from author Anne Mazer regarding an article I wrote about why I write for young people and how her mother, Norma Fox Mazer, had an impact on my writing life when I was just 13.

By far, the best email I received this year was from a 15-year-old boy who wrote to tell me reading Swimming to Chicago changed his life. That moment - and his words - made my purpose crystal clear.

Read: Why I Love (and Admire) Nia Vardalos
Read: More Than Ever

Closing Thoughts (It's All About Gratitude)

I am blessed each and every day of my life in more ways than I could've ever imagined.

I have the most incredible, supportive, loving partner and we have a beautiful life together.

We have a hilarious, adorable, eternally faithful dog named Lucy who makes it all worth it.

I have beautiful, honest, inspiring friends who not only have my back but are never afraid to tell me how it really is.

I have a loving, sometimes complicated family who have always encouraged me to be me.

I'm truly fortunate to wake up every morning and go to a job that I not only love but in which I'm given an opportunity each day to make a positive difference in someones life.

In my career, the stars aligned when I walked into a pitch meeting with Len Barot, Greg Herren, and Victoria Oldham and they offered me my first publishing contract, making Bold Strokes Books my first publishing home - and giving me the opportunity to work with people who not only encouraged me to take risks, but have made me a better writer in the process.

Each time I receive a heartfelt letter from a reader who's found a connection with something I've written, I thank God for giving me the words.

"Everything we do should be a result of our gratitude for what God has done for us." ~ Lauryn Hill

Go have a beautiful new year.

Swimming to Chicago Recognized by the American Library Association

2011-12-09T10:19:00.000-05:00

The Rainbow Project Committee of the American Library Association have selected my young adult novel Swimming to Chicago as a final nominee for the 2012 Rainbow Books, a list comprised of outstanding GLBTQ books for children and teens. I'm incredibly honored by this nomination. It is my hope that the young adult novels I write can reach as many young people as possible.

Swimming to Chicago is published by and available from Bold Strokes Books.

Mesmerized Wins 2011 LGBT Rainbow Award

2011-12-08T12:04:00.000-05:00

I'm thrilled to announce my young adult novel Mesmerized has won the 2011 LGBT Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Coming of Age/Young Adult Novel.

Here's what some of the judges had to say about the book:

A gay story directed at young adults - that's still a rare thing I guess. I'm glad that some authors think about young people when they write - maybe the next generation will be more accepting and sensitive :-) -- Caroline

Serious and sad, painful honest in the way that stories about the loss of innocence are. 'Mesmerized' is a story about grief--the varied, unpredictable, inconsistent ways people deal with it, the ups and downs of life after loss, and the moments of joy and loving bonds that find their way through anyway. The hurt and anger are very real, very stark, and the way they coexist with the giddiness of young love and having close friends is very real too. – Aoife

Memserized is published by and available from Bold Strokes Books.

Work in Progress: Wonderland

2011-12-05T15:13:00.001-05:00

I'm hard at work writing what will become my sixth novel (it's almost done!). This one is very different from anything I've ever written. Here's some information about the book.

WONDERLAND
A Young Adult Novel by
David-Matthew Barnes

After her mother loses her battle to cancer, fifteen-year-old Destiny Moore moves from Chicago to Avalon Cove, a mysterious island in South Carolina. There, she starts a new life working part-time as a magician's assistant and living with her eccentric Uncle Fred and his hottie husband Clark. Destiny is soon befriended by two outcasts, Tasha Gordon and Topher McGentry. She accepts their invitation to accompany them to a place called Wonderland, a former boarding house owned by the enigmatic Adrianna Marveaux. It's there Destiny meets and falls in love with Dominic, Tasha becomes enamored with Juliet, and Topher gives his heart to Pablo. When Destiny discovers why she and her friends have really been brought to Wonderland, she is faced with most crucial choice of her life.

Young Blood by The Naked and Famous

2011-12-05T09:37:00.001-05:00

Here's to the more than 10k people who have visited this blog/official website! Thank you for the incredible support! I promise you...this is only the beginning.

Don't Mention It: A Trilogy of Plays for Women

2011-11-30T12:13:00.000-05:00

I'm thrilled to announce the publication of three of my one-act plays in a collection titled Don't Mention It, available from JAC Publishing and Promotions in print and Kindle editions. This new trilogy (my first) features Bracelets and Boyfriends, Don't Mention It, and False Hopes. Each script is written for an all-female cast. Here's some information about the plays.

Bracelets and Boyfriends

Winner of the Carrie McCray Literary Award! Having recently both turned fifty, childhood friends Judy and Olivia decide to return to a quaint seaside town that they once visited on family vacations during their early teen years. Reminded of loves lost, choices made and the fading of their youth, Judy and Olivia reaffirm their friendship, the tender memories they share and the journey through life that has made them the women they are now. Bracelets and Boyfriends is a powerful and thought-provoking play about two women who must look back before they can move forward.

Don't Mention It

‎Winner of the World AIDS Day Writing Contest! Featured in the national magazine A&U! When sixty-year-old New York native Stella discovers that her grandson has been diagnosed with AIDS, she turns to her best friend Madeline for comfort and strength.

False Hopes

Featured in The Best Women's Stage Monologues! Amy chooses to have an abortion after discovering she's pregnant with the child of her married boss. Claudia discovers she will never be able to have children of her own. Nicole is pregnant with her first child but realizes she is not in love with her successful husband.

The Kiss That Got Me Censored

2011-11-14T17:02:00.002-05:00

I wrote a one-act play about two teenaged boys falling in love titled Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me. It's a sweet, innocent story about a new relationship blossoming between Alex Wilde, a misunderstood misfit, and Johnny Ramirez, his after school math tutor. The play is not sexual in nature. It's not shocking or obscene. There's no nudity. No profanity. No violence.

But, there is a kiss.

Actor Gilbert Villalpando, who originated
the role of Johnny Ramirez.

In 2006, the script was selected by Stage Q in Madison, Wisconsin for their festival Queer Shorts. The play received a wonderful world premiere, directed by Erik Weinke, and starred Gilbert Villalpando and Nathan Figueroa.

A year later, the play received a New York premiere at the 78th Street Theatre Lab (thanks to producers Frank Blocker and Sydney Stone). The show was directed by Jon Michael Murphy and starred Chris von Hoffman and Bobby Abid.

In April of 2008, the play was produced in Boston by Another Country Productions, a wonderful organization run by an incredible, very passionate woman named Lyralen Kale. My little play went on to win their Best Play Award in a slam-style performance contest.

Late in 2009, Lyralen contacted me regarding a new pilot program she had developed called Slams4Schools, in an effort to bring diversity-themed theatre to local area Boston schools. She selected Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me for the program.

In early January of this year, 8 plays (out of 37) were contracted to be performed at an all-male Catholic school (who will remain unnamed to protect the guilty) in a suburb of Boston. The plays were assigned to student directors, cast, and the rehearsal process began with a planned performance date of April 6.

In early March, I received an email of concern from Lyralen. She was having problems with the school about my play. I shot back an email asking for clarification - what problems were they having exactly?

Although the play had passed through a rigorous selection process, the administration wanted the kiss taken out of the script, references to the kiss to be omitted, and the physicality between the two characters (again...the kiss) to be struck.

Lyrlaen defended my honor and my work. But, in the end, the play was pulled from the festival completely.

Two days later, the school cancelled the entire event.

I was forwarded an emailed copy of a plea written by the student (the only openly gay - and Latino - member of the selection committee who was determined to direct my script) and given to the school's administration.

This young man's words broke my heart.

"I am in no way trying to offend anyone; I am just trying to get my voice out there...I am a junior...and former director of Johnny Ramirez Really Wants To Kiss Me, the play that attracted the most discussion at our school because of a stage kiss between two guys. Growing up I did not always fit in I was always told I was too girly, or too skinny but who hasn’t faced some sort of bullying. I believe with these plays we could’ve brought our school to new heights in acceptance of people in general....

I came to choose this school because I saw it as a place where I could make a change and affect lives somehow. I just wanted to address the way the slam was taken away from those who worked so hard for it. We were called into a room with members of administration, who I don’t think had anything to do with the process...We were never given a real reason why...We were angry and had a reason to be angry because all of our months of hard work and training were taken away in less than an hour. It was said that some plays were too inappropriate but weren’t the plays chosen and approved through faculty? I couldn’t help but feel guilty that the play I chose was the reason why the whole slam was canceled...

I am most angered because I saw this as a really good opportunity to help my colleagues become more tolerant in these issues I care about...In conclusion, I would like to remind you that we all have the power to change things at this school, no matter what..."

As an educator myself (I've been a teacher for almost a decade), I was disheartened by the school's decision specifically because of the broken message it sends to young people - especially those who need a play like Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me in their lives (truly the reason why I wrote it).

Sadly, the battle with the school was lost. They refused to reverse the decision and the plays remained unproduced.

Until now.

Another Country Productions have since scheduled the plays to be performed under the collective title SlamBoston UNCENSORED at the Boston Playwrights Theatre on November 14-16, 2011.

For the first time in the history of the play, this production was directed by a woman, Caitlin Ann Stewart-Swift. The show will feature performances by Francisco Marquez and Matthew Ian Eriksen.

This story is far from over. Discussions have recently started about adapting this script into a feature film.

And, when it is, I can promise you...the kiss will happen.

Promo Trailer for Swimming to Chicago

2011-11-12T14:46:00.000-05:00

Check out the just-released promo trailer for my new novel Swimming to Chicago, available from Bold Strokes Books.

A Critic Who Gets It

2011-11-10T11:34:00.000-05:00

Until today, my recent young adult novel Swimming to Chicago has received two types of reviews: really bad and okay.

I ask you to read Jerry L. Wheeler's review of the novel in Out in Print. He's the first critic to "get" this book.

Finally.

Ambrosia

2011-11-01T07:02:00.002-04:00

Ambrosia
A Novel by David-Matthew Barnes

Available exclusively in eBook editions on Valentine's Day 2012!

On the night of her 30th birthday, Tina Duncan is dumped by her musician boyfriend and left with nothing. When her best friend dares her to accept every date she’s asked out on for the next year, Tina accepts the challenge only to confirm her theory that the perfect man no longer exists. Yet, when Tina meets a beautiful stranger, she realizes he might be the only one who can prove her wrong.

If only she can find him again.

More info about the story...

On the night of her 30th birthday, Tina Duncan returns home to the Chicago apartment she shares with Shawn, a failed musician and her boyfriend of five years. To her shock, Tina discovers the apartment is empty. Fearing they’ve been robbed, her worries are relieved, but her heart is broken, when she reads in a note that Shawn has left her for a college cheerleader named Sally, and has moved to an alligator farm in Boca Raton, taking everything with him.

Tina’s gregarious best friend Darla Maroni, peels herself off of her hot Hungarian landlord Arnie long enough to meet with Tina at a nearby restaurant to provide her version of comfort. She offers Tina a loan, but only with the condition that Tina agrees to a challenge: to accept every date she’s asked out on for the next year. Since Tina is convinced that the perfect man no longer exists, she accepts the dare only to confirm her theory – and to cash Darla’s check.

Out of desperation and in order to support herself, Tina takes a job selling women's shoes at McGrady's Department Store. There, she is tormented by a trio of mean-spirited women who work in cosmetics, an overbearing supervisor named Diane, and an eight-foot signing Christmas tree. During her first week on the job, Tina is assaulted by Alice, an elderly deaf co-worker, who is less-than-sympathetic to Tina’s woes. To Tina’s surprise, Alice suddenly dies, but leaves her bitter, old cat to Tina’s care.

Tina’s flamboyant mother, Mary Desdemona Duncan, often makes unannounced visits to Tina’s apartment, each time crippling her daughter’s already-fragile self esteem. Melodramatic and obsessed with The Young and the Restless, Mary Desdemona supports herself by working as a blackjack dealer at a casino in nearby Joliet. She’s convinced if Tina will become a cocktail waitress, all of her problems will be solved.

Tina finds surprise comfort in an unexpected friendship that forms between her and the seventy-two year old owner of the apartment building, Miss Malukey. An eccentric woman on sight, Miss Malukey makes no effort to hide her love of smoking marijuana, or the telepathic messages she channels to her favorite singer Stevie Nicks.

Tina’s life soon becomes one terrible date after another. Until she accidentally meets Oliver, a beautiful stranger who arrives at her front door to return her purse he’s found in a cab. Before realizing Oliver might be the man to prove her theory wrong – and is indeed the perfect man for her – he slips away and disappears.

Convinced she’s lost her one shot at true love, Tina embarks on a city-wide search for a man she hardly knows, but is quickly falling in love with.

The Marijuana Mermaids

2011-10-31T23:26:00.003-04:00

I'm going to write a novel in the span of one month.

Yes. You read that correctly. As many writers know, November is National Novel Writing Month, celebrated and acknowledged each year by the organization NaNoWriMo - prompting creatively fueled writers to attempt the impossible: writing an entire novel in 30 days.

Call me crazy (among other things), but I'm giving it a shot. Keep in mind I've said (and probably written) these words before. Twice, to be exact. That's right. My last two attempts at NaNoWriMo were a total bust. I've somehow convinced myself: this year will be different.

Whatever.

It's insane the things we'll tell ourselves just to self-motivate.

My planned manuscript is a workable draft of a young adult novel titled The Marijuana Mermaids (see the details below). I must confess: this novel/storyline has been a part of my life for over ten years. A decade ago I wrote a short story called The Marijuana Mermaid. This metamorphosed into a screenplay called Adrenaline that was optioned by a production company. A promo trailer for the film (destined for direct-to-video) was shot in Canada, but production never happened. I then tried writing a novel version of the story but could never make it past page 40.

In what I'm certain was an act of insanity at its finest, I scrapped the entire project and I'm starting completely over from scratch.

I'm keeping the original concept (based on the one-paragraph synopsis below) and some of the original character names...and that's about it.

Here's The Saturdays with their inspiring bad girl anthem Notorious - very appropriate for this project.

Tomorrow morning The Marijuana Mermaids will begin to surface.

Here's the story:

The Marijuana Mermaids
by David-Matthew Barnes

Having always obeyed every rule and done exactly what they were told, Leah, Sabina, and Monica are each considered to be the pride of Tanglewood High School. Trying to shed their near-perfect images, the three best friends make a secret pact to see how much they can really get away with during their senior year. As a result, the sister-like bond the trio once shared quickly dissolves into a rebellious downfall of self-destruction, drug addiction, and murder.

An Excerpt from Swimming to Chicago

2011-10-21T15:08:00.001-04:00

To continue the celebration of the release of my third novel, here's an excerpt from Swimming to Chicago.

If you enjoy the excerpt, purchase a copy of the book from an independent book store here.

Thank you for your support!

Inspirational High

2011-10-19T09:52:00.001-04:00

I don't ever remember being as inspired as I am right now.

Reviews for Swimming to Chicago

2011-10-18T10:17:00.001-04:00

The reviews are in for my new novel Swimming to Chicago!

Selected for BEST OF THE BOOKS by The Washington Blade!

"I love books that can destroy their own labels...Davud-Matthew Barnes' marvelous Swimming to Chicago will doubtless be put on the YA shelf...a well-told tale...that will engross readers of all ages...riveting..."
Jerry Wheeler, Out in Print

"I found myself unable to put it down..."
Sara Power, Books Your Kids Will Love

"With what has been happening with our gay youth, David-Matthew Barnes gives us a book that is so important...It is not often that I come upon a book that pulls me in so completely...it could be a combination of wonderfully drawn characters, a terrific plot and great writing. Barnes gives us three terrific characters in Alex, Robby and Jillian...I found myself cheering our heroes on and wanting to take them by the hands and lead them through."
Amos Lassen, Reviews by Amos Lassen

"A beautiful love story told from a host of different perspectives which allows us to truly appreciate the interconnectivity of our world."
Carsen Taite, Author of Nothing but the Truth and Do Not Disturb

"Is there a way to give a book six stars? Because this book is definitely 5-plus...David-Matthew Barnes writes beautifully, his characters are vivid and his plot is a winding road of twists and turns...I cared so much about the characters, I couldn't stop reading...This is a lovely, lovely read..."
D. Jackson Leigh, author of Call Me Softly and Long Shot

"The author’s knack for dialogue is indicative of his experience as a playwright. Conversations are honest, gritty, and profound, and most importantly, germane to the story and its outcome."
Christopher Verleger, EDGE

"This was a heartbreaking story...I enjoyed the book. It made me think once again about how we need to fight for acceptance...this book highlighted the need to stop bullying and the fears gay high school students have when deciding whether or not to reveal their sexuality."
Lilly Road

"Like many teenagers, Alex just wants to belong and to be truly liked...Swimming to Chicago provides twists, shock and escape..."
Amy Steele, Entertainment Realm

The song Help, I'm Alive by Metric is featured prominently in Swimming to Chicago.

Release Me

2011-10-14T16:47:00.002-04:00

My, my, my what a whirlwind the past two weeks have been. I think some sort of personal record was set: I had more projects released/published/reviewed than ever before.

You've already read about the ass kicking my young adult novel Swimming to Chicago received earlier this month by a no-name's-mentioned ginormous and powerful review site. Thankfully, the novel fell back into the good graces (and hearts) of Amos Lassen (who gave the book a beautiful review) and author D. Jackson Leigh who's review was probably the nicest critique my work has received to date. Wherever she is, God bless her...

Swimming to Chicago (my third novel) was released two weeks early by my wonderful publisher Bold Strokes Books. Within days of each other, the paperback and eBook editions both hit the market. I couldn't be more pleased. The novel has been a part of my life for over eight years. I'm happy it's finally in the hands of readers.

JAC Publishing & Promotions released my stage play Sloe Gin Fizz in print and a Kindle edition (kudos to the company for being clever publishers - releasing stage plays in Kindle editions is a brilliant move). This has been a long-awaited play. Excerpts from the script were featured in an edition of The Best Men's Stage Monologues. Over the years, I've received lots and lots of requests from actors for the script in its entirety. No one has been more surprised than me by the tremendous interest in and response to this little play. Don't believe what anyone tells you: romance is not dead - and neither is true love. This play is proof of that.

JAC also released a trilogy of my one-act plays, under the collective title Don't Mention It (also in print and a Kindle edition). The collection contains three all-female plays exploring a broad rage of issues: Bracelets and Boyfriends, False Hopes, and Don't Mention It.

Also in the happening: a Kindle edition of my second novel Accidents Never Happen was released, my poem Walking to K-Mart to Buy a Dolly Parton Album was featured in the just-released current issue of The Southeast Review, my poem Harm's Way made the current issue of the Red Booth Review, my first novel Mesmerized jumped back onto a bestsellers list for teens (and was released in a Nook edition!), and I officialy became a co-writer for the pilot episode of an upcoming television series.

Alas, no rest for the wicked (or the creatively fueled). I'm now hard at work on my fifth novel, a supernatural teen romance titled Wonderland.

I do plan to catch my breath at some point this weekend.

You never know what next week may bring...

Spotlight: Accidents Never Happen

2011-10-05T13:44:00.001-04:00

Accidents Never Happen
A Suspense Thriller by David-Matthew Barnes

Thirty-nine-year-old Albert is a Puerto Rican amateur cruiserweight married to a woman who can't stand the sight of him. Joey, a college sophomore, claims he just watched his parents drive off a cliff after he bled the brakes of the family car. From the moment their lives collide beneath a train track on a street in Chicago, the two men can't deny their mutual attraction. The moment they give in to their desires, a domino effect is triggered setting off a chain reaction of murder and tragedy.

Read an excerpt from Accidents Never Happen.

Author's Notes

Hands down this novel is what I consider to be my strongest writing to date. To say I'm proud of Accidents Never Happen is an understatement. A more appropriate sentiment would be: I'm in love with my own book.

The novel began over ten years ago. I wrote the sentence "Albert was a boxer and Joey liked his bruises." I kept going back to the sentence for months, waiting for their story to emerge. Finally (after listening to some classic Blondie and Pat Benatar), I found the inspiration I needed and set out to work on the most complex, emotionally draining, artistically gratifying creative process I've experienced as a writer.

When the novel was published last July, it was the greatest sense of accomplishment I've ever felt. I was determined to tell these characters stories - and I saw it through. The result is a novel that demonstrates my true abilities as a storyteller.

Accidents Never Happen has been a quiet novel. I've received a handful of responses from readers - and to date it's generated some of the best reviews in my career (including my first-ever five star review) - but it hasn't received the true love I feel it deserves. It's my hope that the novel continues to connect with as many readers as possible. There is some dialogue happening about adapting the story into an indie film (a fantastic idea). Perhaps that will be the catalyst to draw more attention to the novel itself.

This novel still has a tremendous amount of life (and love) in it. Regardless of its future, Accidents Never Happen will always be a personal favorite. It's with this novel that I feel I earned the right to call myself: a writer.

The Facts of Life

2011-10-03T21:42:00.002-04:00

Up until I hit the age of 40 (hard, like a helmetless collision into a graffiti-stained brick wall), I had culled my mottos on life, love, and work from one very important advice-giving 80's TV theme song.

But, now that I've reached the more mature age of 41, I see life as the occassional suckfest it really can be.

Today, I received the single worst review in my career written by an unnamed critic for a big named company. No...it's not The Chicago Reader. They trashed me over a decade ago (and two of my plays that've never been produced since. I smell a conspiracy theory. Go on. Prove me wrong.). This morning I got a Google alert informing me that my life was about to change. They picked me. They picked my young adult novel. I couldn't wait to read the review. They being sort of like the Mafia Gods of reviews. (I refuse to mention them here because why promote them ever again at this point? Or at least until they fall in love with something I've written.) For years I held onto my dream of being reviewed by them, certain that once I was my literary career would skyrocket to the stars and my life would be like an eternal musical number from Xanadu. Instead, the critic seemed like he/she was on a mission to convince me to never approach a computer again, never allow another imaginary thought to enter my mind, never dare put my name on anything that could possibly be published. Maybe I should reconsider that flight attendant career I left behind...

Am I bitter? No...afterall: "You take the good, you take the bad, you take 'em both, and there you have..." Wait! I'm 41 now. I'm mature. The 80's are over. And my career might be too. Before it really begins. No...I'm just kidding. I'm not giving up that easy. Never. Call my work whatever you want, even "an avalanche of flaws" featuring a "much-maligned mother." I'm still going to write. I'm still going to publish. I'm not stopping anytime soon. Because when I was a kid sitting in my living room watching The Facts of Life, I would've felt a lot less lonely/confused/overlooked/misunderstood in this world reading a book about boys like me.

Just like the song promises, the good really did come with the bad. Once I dusted myself off from the clouds of debris and self-pity, I remembered that today my third novel Swimming to Chicago was being released in three eBook formats from Bold Strokes Books (shameless plug, I know - but what else do I have left at this point? Humility? I don't think so.)

Granted this is the same novel that the banished-from-my-life-forever critic referred to as "a dreary slog through a mashup of many a gay-teen novel from yesteryear." I reminded myself of why I wrote the novel in the first place (and it took me eight long mofo years to do so - a helluva lotta work to be dismissed in one paragraph): the teenagers who are going to buy/read/love this novel (and email me their hearts and souls - their shared pain, their beautiful words) they don't really care about reviews. They only care that their story is being told: the good and the bad.

So, here's mine - a new one, in the form of another theme song.

Swimming to Chicago Released in eBook Today!

2011-10-03T06:17:00.000-04:00

My third novel, Swimming to Chicago, is now available in three eBook formats from Bold Strokes Books. Here's some info about the book. Enjoy!

Reeling from his mother's suicide, seventeen-year-old Alex Bainbridge retreats from the world around him, often finding solace on a secluded island behind his house. As an Armenian-American living in a small Southern town, Alex struggles to fit in. His close friendship with the outspoken Jillian Dambro is his only saving grace, until he meets and falls in love with Robby LaMont—an introverted new student at school. As the year unfolds and the lives of the adults around them unravel, the three teens form an unbreakable bond, vowing to do anything to stay together—even if it means leaving everything behind.

Monologue Performance from Threnody

2011-09-13T08:55:00.000-04:00

An actress named Molly Sapp performs a monologue from my one-act play Threnody. I've not met or worked with Molly before, but I was quite impressed by this performance.

Spotlight: Just Before the Drop

2011-09-07T10:04:00.002-04:00

Every Wednesday I select a piece of my writing to Spotlight.

Just Before the Drop
A One-Act Play by David-Matthew Barnes
1f, 1m

‎Moments after her husband of twenty-four years leaps to his death from a twelve story building, a woman comes face to face with a man who claims to have been her husband’s lover of five years. On the rooftop, sorrow, regret and anger culminate in a second tragedy.

Just Before the Drop is available from Production Scripts.

Author's Notes

Just Before the Drop is a unique play, simply because I have no idea where the idea for this script came from. It just happened.

Within two weeks of finishing the script, the play received a world premiere in June of 2007 at The Independent in New York where it was nationally selected by the Native Aliens Theatre Collective to be performed at their festival Short Stories 8: Urban View. This production was directed by Cynthia Russell, produced by Nancy Rogers, and starred Jake Lipman as Rebecca and Michael Lester as Andrew.

With the cast, director, and production team at the world
premiere of the film adaptation of Just Before the Drop.

While I was teaching at Penn State University (over a year later) a student named Sam Wagner came to me and asked if he could adapt the play into a short film. I was already familar with his incredible work, so I agreed. The result was a breathtaking film starring Rachel Volpe and Cory Jones.

The film became an official selection for The One in Ten Film Festival, where it received an award-winning world premiere.

I feel there's more to come where this script is concerned. These characters aren't finished yet.

Spotlight: Taking Off

2011-08-31T10:55:00.000-04:00

Every Wednesday I select a piece of my writing to Spotlight.

Taking Off
A One-Page Play by David-Matthew Barnes
2f

Barbara Bruce as Mrs. Whitmore and Nicole Fudge as
Miranda in the world premiere of Taking Off.

If the plane just went down and there are no survivors, why is Mrs. Whitmore so happy? When Mrs. Whitmore is informed by Miranda, an airline employee, that her husband's plane has crashed and there are no reported survivors, she suddenly realizes that a new sense of liberty has been given to her with which she will be able to make many lifelong dreams come true. This one-page play examines a sensitive issue with an unconventional twist. This script is available from Production Scripts.

Author's Notes

One of my favorite American plays is This Day and Age by Nagle Jackson. Ever since I saw a production of it (years ago) at the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon, I've always wanted to explore the theme of widowhood. When the challenge was presented to write a one-page play for possible production in an upcoming festival, I rolled up my sleeves and accepted the task. The result was Taking Off.

Selena Ambush starred in the New York
premiere as Mrs. Whitmore in Taking Off.

The script received a world premiere in 2006 in Atlanta, starring Barbara Bruce and Nicole Fudge, who originated the roles of Mrs. Whitmore, the seemingly happy newly widowed writer, and Miranda, the recently engaged - but hesitant - airline employee. Although the script is considerably short, I truly feel both characters lives and stories are understood and told in five minutes.

Maria Canela-Fisher (who was my student at the time)
made her New York stage debut as Miranda
in Taking Off.

In 2009, Rolando Ramos directed the New York premiere of Taking Off. The production starred my colleague (we were both teaching at Penn State at the time) Selena Ambush, who fearlessly and brilliantly accepted the challenge of playing a character considerably older than she was. One of my students, a very talented young woman named Maria Canela-Fisher, was cast in the role of Miranda and made her New York stage debut with this production.

The theme of the play is freedom. And the driving desire for it.

The Saturdays All Fired Up

2011-08-29T17:10:00.000-04:00

Take that, Monday!

Spotlight: Mesmerized

2011-08-24T13:51:00.002-04:00

Every Wednesday I select a piece of my writing to Spotlight.

Mesmerized
A Young Adult Novel by David-Matthew Barnes

While being punished for writing a controversial article in her high school paper, Serena Albright is befriended by enigmatic loner Brodie Wiles. Serena witnesses the first time that Brodie meets Lance Royal, who is secretly rehearsing to compete in The Showdown, the biggest dance contest of the year. Immediately, Serena is drawn into their world, inspired by the love that she recognizes between them.

Through her close friendship with Brodie and Lance, Serena finds comfort for the grief and guilt she feels over the brutal death of her gay older brother, the victim of a hate crime. Frustrated that her deep-in-denial parents spend endless hours in front of the television and refuse to acknowledge the death of their son, Serena accepts the challenge to have a face-to-face meeting with the boy who killed her brother.

Set in the summer of 1986, this young adult novel explores the emotional aftershocks of a hate crime from the perspective of a young woman who finds renewed hope through two young men who are brave enough to love.

Author's Notes

This book changed my life. Completely.

Mesmerized began as a short story (what is now the first chapter of the novel), written while I was in a nostalgic state of mind. I was living (and teaching) in a small town in Pennsylvania at the time. I read the story over the phone to Nick Moreno (he was driving to Canada on a business trip). He insisted the story and the characters were worthy of a novel. He felt they were strong enough to sustain.

And, he was right.

The original concept was a summer romance between Brodie (in an earlier draft he was younger: a freshman) and Lance (who originally worked in a pizza parlor but still drove a tangerine-colored Vespa).

I was hugely inspired by the Prince song When Doves Cry (just hearing this song immediately takes me back to a specific time in my life), envisioning the two characters dancing together to that particular song. One night, I was standing at the cash register while working a part-time job at PETCO, when the song came on in the store. In that moment, the character of Serena Albright entered the story with conflicts and heartaches and beauty of her own, and immediately, I knew: the novel had to be told from her perspective.

Strangely, I never reference When Doves Cry in Mesmerized. However, Pat Benatar's classic song Love is a Battlefield has a tremendous importance in the novel.

The movie poster for Fire with Fire,
as referenced in the novel Mesmerized.

I didn't set out to write a story about a hate crime. I couldn't have predicted or known that the bullying epidemic would explode in the media just weeks before the novel was released (in my opinion bullying had always been a huge issue and was long overdue for mass attention). I never intended to make a socio-political statement. I simply wanted to write a book for and about teenagers. My goal was to write a story about a girl who missed her brother who found comfort in the blossoming love between two of her male friends.

To date, I've received more responses (particularly via email) from young people who have read Mesmerized, than I have for any other project. Their words inspire me to write more, work harder, and stay true to my reasons for telling stories for and about teenagers.

Once Mesmerized was published, this novel became the most important story I've written in my career (to date). It's taught me the power of the written word.

More so than many of my projects, there's a tremendous amount of me in this book. Certainly most (if not all) of the characters are either based on people I knew/met/loved while growing up as a teenager in the 80s in Sacramento, or they are composites of a few people. All of the locales mentioned in the book were places I actually spent time at (sometimes without permission). In many ways, this novel serves as personal time capsule for me - as a fictional account of my former teenaged life.

Writing this novel forced me to return to my younger years, re-examine them, and write from that point of view. Once the central story began to unfold during the writing process, Serena's grief became my driving force to finish the book.

Mesmerized launched my career as a novelist. I pitched the novel to Len Barot, the president of Bold Strokes Books, and Greg Herren, my future editor, at a literary festival. I had five minutes with them. They liked the idea and asked for the manuscript. A month later, I submitted the manuscript. Six weeks later, I signed my first book publishing contract. I'm now finishing my fifth novel.

To this day, it surprises me that Mesmerized has not been adapted into a film. The story is begging to be told on a big screen. I hope someday this happens. In the meantime, it's my goal to reach as many young people as possible with this novel.

For this, and many, many reasons, Mesmerized will always be close to my heart.

Here's a photo that hung above my desk while I wrote the book.
It's the original newspaper advertisement for one of my favorite films:
Susan Siedelman's Smithereens.

Why I Wish Ms. Dynamite Would Blow Up in America

2011-08-19T10:23:00.003-04:00

It's been almost a decade since I first discovered the musical powers of Ms. Dynamite. I wish I could tell you how I stumbled upon her brilliant single It Takes More, but, once I did, I knew I'd found something genius. Lyrically this song is deep (and melodically addictive). I've always admired her fearlessness, her commitment to never shy away from real life, relatable, in-your-face topics. Later, my love for her intellectual/socio-politcal hip hop music would led me to the equally-provocative Northern State (I will plea for them to reunite in another blog at another time).

It baffles me why artists like her don't receive more airplay, promotion, fan love in America. Take a look at any newspaper. Visit the playground of any school. Have a conversation with a teenager. You will quickly realize how much we are in desperate need of artists who push the boundaries and challenge us to actually think. Why is it that (particularly in the American music scene) artists who actually have something to say are rarely heard?

Like all artists, Ms. Dynamite's style and influences have shifted in the recent years. Her new single has just been released in the U.K. (but, sadly, most of her music is not available in America via iTunes, with the exception of her first album). With this new song, we are presented with a more mature (but still relevant and contemporary) and seemingly more subdued performer. Don't be fooled. She's still the live wire she's always been. And, hopefully, always will be.

Say what you want, but Ms. Dynamite can still make us stop and feel. She can still take our breath away. And isn't that what it really means to be a true artist?

Spotlight: Somebody's Baby

2011-08-17T15:02:00.002-04:00

Every Wednesday I select a piece of my writing to Spotlight.

Somebody's Baby
A Stage Play by David-Matthew Barnes
2f, 1m

Winner of the Elly Award for Best Original Script, this riveting teen drama takes place on a rainy Friday night in Chicago. Escaping a near date-rape situation, 16-year-old Tabitha stumbles into a coffee shop where she meets William, a young man dying of AIDS who has been abandoned by everyone he loved. Both young lives are deeply affected by a waitress named Milvia who has a story and a dream of her own. Somebody's Baby is a powerful drama for young actors that explores a very important and timely subject. This script is available from Heuer Publishing.

Read an excerpt from the script here.

This story (and these characters) haunted me for over ten years. I originally wrote Somebody's Baby as an unpublished YA novel when I was 15. The only copy of the manuscript was lost (and never found). In 1996, while I was a playwriting student at The Theatre School of DePaul University in Chicago, I wrote the stage version (from memory) of the tale of Tabitha, William, and Milvia. In the summer of 1997, the script received a world premiere (starring Melita Ann Sagar as Tabitha, Chad Stalzer - in an Elly-nominated performance as William, and Trish DeBaun as Milvia) at the Thistle Dew Dessert Theatre in Sacramento. While the cast was extraordinary, the show received little attention. No one was more surprised than me when the script won an Elly Award later that year - my first writing award ever.

I dedicated the published version of the script to Kelly Kinghorn Hurtado, who provided valuable feedback (and friendship) during the writing process (and later the production itself). Kelly and I met at DePaul University (she was a fellow Theatre School student) and we bonded over being broke and being from the West (she's from Arizona).

I will always love this script, especially because of the wonderful people/artists it brought together. And, because of its message about the importance of love.

Pat Benatar, one of my musical muses, sings a song of the same title exploring similar themes. Definitely an inspiration.

Spotlight: Clean

2011-08-10T09:33:00.000-04:00

Every Wednesday I select a piece of my writing to Spotlight.

Clean
A One-Act Play for Women
by David-Matthew Barnes
2f

In this touching one-act play, an elderly former movie star named Vivien is suffering from the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s. At a bus stop in Beverly Hills, she develops a beautiful bond with her nurturing and very strong willed housekeeper, Maria. This script is available from JAC Publishing & Promotions.

This play was a surprise to me. In terms of story, it's unlike anything else I've written. After seeing Rita Hayworth's performance in the classic film Cover Girl, I became fascinated with her life story, particularly her struggle with Alzheimer's. Her life's journey influenced and inspired this script tremendously (eventually I dedicated the published version of the play to her).

Clean has been widely produced (at the Kentuck Arts Ten-Minute Play Festival, the Ten-Minute Play Fest at Louisiana Tech University, and, most recently, by the Boca Raton Theatre Guild - to name a few). The strength of the play lies in the friendship between Maria and Vivien. Despite their differences (in culture, social class, and age), these two women truly care about each other.

Spotlight: Unrequited

2011-08-03T12:34:00.003-04:00

Every Wednesday I select a piece of my writing to Spotlight.

Unrequited
A One-Act Play for Teens
by David-Matthew Barnes
1M/1F

At a high school dance, the eccentric Mercury Jones is locked in a supply room with the most popular guy in school, Travis Emerson. After confessing she's had a crush on him for years, Mercury discovers Travis isn't the perfect person she thought he was. Unrequited was selected by Love Creek Productions for inclusion in their Winter One-Act Series in New York and premiered at The Creative Place Theatre. The script is published by Brooklyn Publishers.

Read an excerpt from the script here.

I won't lie. Of the one-act plays I've written, this is one of my personal favorites. This play is very endearing to me. I love the characters, the concept, the story, and, most importantly, the dialogue. Unrequited is one of the few plays (in my career thus far) that I feel I got right. However, the script has never generated the same level of attention some of the more boisterous ones have. I wrote the script in 2001 while I was a student at Columbia College in Chicago (the script wasn't published until January of 2004). I dedicated the published version of the play to my classmate and fellow writer Stephanie Kuehnert (who went on to have a successful writing career of her own). I was deeply inspired by Stephanie's fearless commitment to be herself and embrace her individuality (including her awesome sense of style). In many ways, the character of Mercury Jones (and this script) wouldn't have happened had we not met. As they say, everything happens for a reason.

The play received a world premiere in February of 2003 (unfortunately, I did not get to attend) at the Creative Place Theatre in NYC. It was presented by Love Creek Productions, directed by Josh Adler, and starred Dawn Merin and Michael Schreiber. The photo is from the Atlanta premiere of the play, starring Heather White and Israel Korn.

And So It Begins...

2011-08-01T07:14:00.000-04:00

No rest for the wicked. Or, for the creatively insane. I finished the first draft of The Jetsetters over the weekend and sent the manuscript to the editor and publisher.

This morning, I started work on my fifth novel, a paranormal romantic thriller for teens titled Grave Stones. The first line of the book is "Do you believe in magic?"

Here's some audio/video inspiration that got me through the first 500 words.

The Jetsetters by David-Matthew Barnes

2011-07-22T12:27:00.000-04:00

THE JETSETTERS
A Rock 'n' Roll Love Story
by David-Matthew Barnes

Justin Holt is a lonely barista living in Chicago. He spends his days in college and his evenings working at Clouds, a coffee shop owned by his lesbian boss and mentor, Starsky. When Diego Delgado, the hot, Latin guitarist for the rock band The Jetsetters, wanders in for a cup of coffee, a spark is instantly ignited between the two young men.

As The Jetsetters skyrocket from obscurity to super stardom, Justin fights with everything he has to make certain his new relationship survives, despite the chaos surrounding them. When the demands of instant fame and an unexpected tragedy take their toll on Diego and threaten his flourishing career, Justin is forced to make the most difficult choice of his life.

Coming in 2012!

Blondie Accidents Never Happen

2011-07-19T09:21:00.000-04:00

For Joey and Albert. Because their love story is finally being told.

The Saturdays Notorious

2011-07-18T17:08:00.002-04:00

Here it is...my official fave song of the summer.

Why I Love (and Admire) Nia Vardalos

2011-07-13T06:32:00.004-04:00

As anyone with a Twitter account will tell you, (vicariously) following the often-exciting lives of your favorite celebrity can be fascinating, unpredictable, and fun. You soon learn about their favorite books/movies/songs/alcoholic beverage, what their sense of humor is really like, and, most often, their political and/or personal beliefs. Yet, this strictly online relationship really creates a one-sided friendship - you know everything about what's going on in their world, but they have no clue as to who you are. In fact, you are one of their many "followers", there to simply promote their latest project to.

Then, you can only imagine my surprise, when the following tweet popped up on my computer screen from high-profile actress/screenwriter/goddess Nia Vardalos, sent to all those who follow her on Twitter: "After much LARRYCROWNE press, I'm bored of my own voice. What u working on that could use a little twitter promotion? I'll RT."

Wait....what?

I had to re-read her words. In the midst of promoting the release of the Tom Hanks/Julia Roberts film Larry Crowne (that she wrote and therefore has a high stake in the success of), she was offering to take the time to promote a project/cause/purpose for someone else? Who does that?

Nia Vardalos does, that's who.

I replied to her with information about my upcoming book: "My second novel, a gay thriller titled ACCIDENTS NEVER HAPPEN, hits stores July 19th! Thank you very much for your support!"

Within minutes, she reposted my tweet to everyone who follows her on Twitter: over 126,000 people. Suddenly, I started receiving inquiries about my novel from around the world. Everyone wanted to know one thing: where could they buy it? I couldn't have asked for more promotion and support.

But I wasn't the only person she helped. For the next hour, she retweeted on behalf of the Humane Society, a man whose music store had burnt down, the adoption of HIV+ children, scholarships for families of fallen soldiers, and much, much more.

When the question was posed to her of why she was retweeting on behalf of so many people, she replied with, "I wanted to use Twitter for good."

I now clearly understand the power of social media. Collin Kelley and Karen Head, mentors to many in this all-too important arena deserve credit here for sharing with me - and many other writers - their know-how and expertise, and encouraging us to utilize social media.

I get it now.

But, more importantly, I am forever indebted to a wonderful woman named Nia Vardalos. She charmed us with My Big Fat Greek Wedding. She became every gay man's ideal best friend in Connie and Carla, and she made us want to spend every summer in Greece in My Life in Ruins. Now, she's written a beautiful screenplay for Larry Crowne, of which a recent review in the Huffington Post referred to as "a movie that focuses on the power of positivity" - am I not surprised, considering the source behind the script?

At the heart of it all, Nia Vardalos is an exception. She really does care about the people who support her. Given the chance, she used her celebrity status to support them.

I'm living proof of this. And, I'm forever grateful.

Metric Gold Guns Girls

2011-07-11T09:44:00.000-04:00

It's a Metric kind of Monday morning.

Accidents Never Happen Released in eBook Today!

2011-07-01T10:15:00.000-04:00

My second novel Accidents Never Happen has been released to the world in four eBook formats today! You may purchase a copy here. The paperback version will be available on July 19th!

Here's an exclusive sneak peak at an excerpt from the novel. Enjoy!

Divinyls Desperate

2011-06-29T13:31:00.000-04:00

The Divinyls' Desperate is one of the greatest rock albums of all-time.

The Pretty Reckless Make Me Wanna Die

2011-06-20T12:53:00.000-04:00

Some hot music to kick start this week into overdrive.

I'm Not Finished Yet (Part Two)

2011-06-15T15:48:00.001-04:00

Life is strange.

And circular.

And everything really does happen for reason...exactly when it's supposed to.

Years ago I had a not-so-great experience working in "the industry", also known as Hollywood. I was much younger. Really naïve. Incredibly hopeful. Way too trusting. And I got burned. Bad.

While I'm very grateful for the huge learning lesson that my two years of living in L.A. turned out to be, I'd long ago given up on the idea of resuming a writing career in film or television.

Now, all of that is about to change.

A week ago I was asked by a wonderful colleague (i.e. the one person I trust working in Hollywood) to write the pilot episode of a new, potential television series being created for an actress whose work I've respected for many years. The concept for the show is brilliant. Just to be a part of this project in any way I can is a tremendous honor.

In addition, we will soon be pitching my own original television series (Better Luck Next Time) for network consideration. It's a terrific show, written for and about women. Very hilarious. Very real. I've been told by many (already) that my little show has huge potential.

It's the perfect time for both shows to happen. Not just in my life, but in the world of television. Now, more than ever, women are achieving incredible power in television. Take a look at the line up: The Good Wife, Hawthorne, Drop Dead Diva, Damages, Hot in Cleveland - just to name a few.

Ironically enough (remember the rule in comedic television - the best moments happen in threes - and doesn't life often feel like a sitcom?), I received an email from a producer-friend I had not heard from in quite some time, asking if I had some original television series ideas (primarily for teens and children). I looked through my very outdated library, brushed the dust off a few, brainstormed with my wonderful and creative partner for some new concepts, and responded with ideas for six shows.

I received a reply asking for more info about four of them.

So, guess how I'll be spending my summer break from teaching? If you guessed writing, you're absolutely right. Somewhere in the middle of all of this, I have a novel that's begging to be finished, too. And a new play of mine will be opening in New York in eight weeks (more on that soon).

I'm putting the past behind me, and I'm embracing a new, honest relationship with "the industry". My secret weapon: I really do know better this time.

Don't trust anyone. Get everything in writing. Don't take any wooden nickels. All very sound advice.

But, what's so incredibly different this time around is that I'm ready for it. My writing is stronger. My vision for the projects I want to create is crystal clear. I know there's a place in the television landscape for my voice, my characters, my stories (and yours) that I want the opportunity to tell.

I haven't been this passionate, excited, and enthused about new projects in quite some time.

Who knows if anything will come out of these concepts/ideas/dreams, but it's certainly worth a try. And, sometimes, that's all you have to do...is try.

I tell my students to write fearlessly. It's time I do the same.

Opportunity knocked on the door of my life once, over a decade ago. I shut the door on it and walked away.

Now, it's back. And I'm better than ever.

To Hollywood, I say...bring it on.

Stay tuned.

Nelly Furtado Night is Young

2011-06-06T14:32:00.000-04:00

Here's a little audio feel-good to set this week on fire.

I'm Not Finished Yet

2011-06-02T11:44:00.001-04:00

I just celebrated an anniversary of sorts. As of yesterday, I've now been teaching full-time at a technical college in Georgia for one year. My relationship with the school actually started in January of 2009. I was teaching at the Altoona campus of Penn State at the time (I was the Emerging Writer in Residence there for the 2008-2009 academic year). I had applied for a teaching position at the school in Georgia right before I moved to Pennsylvania (I lived in Georgia from 2003 - 2008 less than 30 minutes from the school I now teach at - life is definitely strange and circular), but I didn't hear back from them until after I was already settled in up north. As teaching full-time was no longer geographically possible, they offered me the opportunity to teach two classes on line, and I accepted.

Until June of last year, I had never been to campus, never met any of my students or colleagues in person. In fact, after finishing my residency at Penn State, I headed off to northern California, where I was the visiting artist at a theatre company for the year (all the while still teaching online classes). When a teaching position became available last spring, I applied, interviewed (by phone), and was soon welcomed as a new faculty member in the English program. I boarded a plane bound for Atlanta (with my dog Lucy in tow) and have been back in The Peach State ever since.

Living in Georgia (especially suburban/rural Georgia where I live - not in a luxury condo in downtown Atlanta) takes some serious readjustments for a California native. No beach. Humidity from hell. Flying insects the size of birds. A completely new vernacular that includes "y'all" and "fixin' to". And a local cuisine that's usually deep fried (yum) and served with sweet tea (yuck).

Truthfully, the culture shock was almost too much for me to contend with. Not only did I feel "cut off", but a mild depression snuck itself into my life. More than once, I looked around and asked myself, "How did I end up here?" Clearly, my liberal lifestyle/beliefs made me an outsider from day one. After answering the constant-question "You're not from 'round here, are you?" more times than I care to count, I felt stuck. I was worlds away from New York, Los Angeles, Chicago - places I longed to be. Somehow, the universe had determined that this was where I was supposed to be. Living in a state that doesn't even recognize domestic partnerships...in the year 2011. Are you kidding me? (I will resist the temptation to delve into a political/human rights rant here, and move on...)

Two months ago I was offered a teaching position at a community college in Chicago. Initially, I jumped at the chance to make my way back to the Windy City (truly my favorite city in the U.S.). To say that I love Chicago is an understatement (read any of my novels if proof is required). I spent a few years living there as an undergraduate student and, since then, I've been trying to get back there. My ever-supportive partner agreed that the opportunity to leave Georgia might not come again and that we should go.

We were practically packed, when something really strange happened...I changed my mind.

I walked into the Dean's office the next morning, and - after a hour long conversation - I withdrew my resignation, and made the decision to stay.

It wasn't the peaches (I actually hate peaches). It wasn't the hot boiled peanuts (they're disgusting). It wasn't the weather (summer in Georgia is like living in Hell's backyard). And, it certainly wasn't the money (remember...I'm a teacher).

The reason why I decided to stay was simple: for my students.

In the last year, I've been fortunate enough (with a lot of support from colleagues and administration) to make a lot of "firsts" happen at the school I teach at, making history each step of the way. In addition to founding a literary/dramatic arts club for students, starting a writing group with some of my colleagues, and serving as one of the coaches for the first-ever cheerleading team, I launched a Visiting Writers Series, produced and directed the first stage production, and organized a student literary showcase.

Next year, we've already planned an ongoing Open Mic Night, a student written and directed festival of one-act plays, two mainstage productions, and the kick-off of an official literary publication. In addition, I will be teaching the first-ever theatre class.
So...the thought that kept plaguing me was...how can I walk away now? In the last year, over a dozen students have come out to me, more than twenty of my students have gone on to four-year schools, three of my students are writing novels, and one of them just finished writing her first stage play.

Another teacher overheard me commiserating a day before I made the decision to stay. I was going on and on, rambling that there was a lack of liberal arts in our job-skill-building curriculum. She laughed and responded, "You are the liberal arts department at this school." With no disrespect to my colleagues, there's more than an ounce of truth in her words. I see my purpose. It is clear. Crystal.

So, Chicago will have to wait. I'm renewing my teaching contract for another year and we are staying in Georgia for now. Despite the peaches. And the bugs. And the God-awful humidity.

And I couldn't be happier with my decision, y'all!

Interview

2011-06-01T14:52:00.000-04:00

I was recently interviewed by Connie Ward, during which I discussed (among other topics) my upcoming novel Accidents Never Happen, Rita Mae Brown, a blue witch, cereal boxes, writing fearlessly, and more!

You can read the interview here.

Enjoy!

The Saturdays on a Wednesday: Work

2011-06-01T09:28:00.001-04:00

It's a new month. Get to it.

Morningwood Killer Life

2011-05-26T09:32:00.000-04:00

"It's a killer life. Now, on with the show..."

Kat Deluna Unstoppable

2011-05-25T08:28:00.000-04:00

"You can talk all you want, but my skin is really thick.
I'm the leader of the crowd, and my game is really slick.
I'm unstoppable."

Santigold L.E.S. Artistes

2011-05-23T06:19:00.000-04:00

This woman fascinates me. And this song is pure poetry.

Accidents Never Happen Receives 5 Star Review!

2011-05-19T08:21:00.001-04:00

ACCIDENTS NEVER HAPPEN
by David-Matthew Barnes
(Bold Strokes Books, July 2011, $16.95 softcover)

Do you believe in fate? Albert and Joey do.

Albert is a 39 year old married Puerto-Rican delivery driver, with unfulfilled ambitions to be a famous boxer, who bumps into (literally and figuratively) Joey, a 20 year old gay college student, and an instant rapport develops. They have much in common: dysfunctional childhoods, loneliness, and seemingly unrealistic goals. But what really unites them is the fact that each has a dark secret, Albert from more than a decade ago, and Joey from a recent, quick trip home to Maine, during which time his parents died in a fiery car accident. There is more than sufficient reason for one not to trust the other, but they become closer each day, and make plans to leave Chicago together. When Albert's distant, conniving wife hears of his plans, and when Joey's manipulative sister Lilly decides to confront her brother about their parents' death, fate may deal them both another losing hand.

Barnes crafts a complex, imaginative, character-driven suspense/romance novel with realistic, gritty people and situations, which make the book a definite page-turner and a must-read for those who appreciate such originality. Though the characters have significant negative experiences, the overall tone celebrates the ability of people to cope and rebound from past setbacks.

Five stars out of five.

- Bob Lind, Echo Magazine

Saints and Sinners: A Recap

2011-05-18T11:31:00.001-04:00

My annual trek to New Orleans to be a guest author at the Saints and Sinners Literary Festival never disappoints. This year was no exception. I returned home on Monday afternoon. It's now Wednesday morning. I'm still recovering. No, not from too many drinks on Bourbon Street, but from sheer exhaustion.

I first attended the fest in 2005, when I was a contributing author to the essay collection Small-Town Gay. The festival was relatively young then, and has grown considerably since. I also attended in 2008, 2009, 2010, and this year, as well. Next year, is a guarantee.

Each year, my best friends and I reunite in New Orleans during the festival weekend. We all fly in from around the country, meet there, catch up, and make new memories. This year, Rena (and her husband Rob and her writing group partner Loretta) came from Olympia, Washington. Nick (and his partner Albert) came from Denver, Colorado. Mindy (and her partner Stacy) came from Sacramento, California, as did the one-and-only Cyndi Lopez. I made the trip from Atlanta.

Overall, my four days in The Big Easy were relatively low-key. No late-night drunken tales of debauchery. No moments of hide-your-head-in-shame. Just a couple of readings, an awesome panel discussion, some sold out books, good times with great friends, a carriage ride through the French Quarter, and a cheesy Haunted History Tour.

So much work goes into putting the festival together (under the wonderful direction of Paul Willis). I discovered this firsthand. I volunteered to help stuff swag bags Thursday afternoon (promo postcards and bookmarks for my forthcoming novels Accidents Never Happen and Swimming to Chicago were included items), and it was clear to me how much dedication each volunteer has, how hard they truly work.

This year, I was named a finalist for their annual short story competition (judged by John Berendt, author of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil). As such, I was invited to the book launch party at the gorgeous Hotel Monteleone. There, I read my short story Backfire. I was in some wonderful company. Sally Bellerose, J.R. Greenwell, Jeff Lindemann, and Felice Picano also read. Each story was remarkable.

On Friday, I attended a master class taught by the brilliant Achy Obejas. In one of the English classes I teach, my students read/study her short story We Came All the Way From Cuba So You Could Dress Like This? I have to admit - I was a little starstruck, given my deep respect for her work. She was an awesome teacher. I learned a new storybuilding technique that I will definitely share with my students and the members of my writing group.

Friday night, I had dinner with my friends (the wonderful Collin Kelley joined us) before attending the welcome party Glitter with the Literati, held in the courtyard of Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré. Although, I didn't take advantage of the open bar, my friends certainly did. But no names will be mentioned, as promised.

On Saturday afternoon, I moderated a panel discussion titled "Beyond Twilight: Writing for the Young Adult Market". The panelists (Greg Herren - a.k.a. my editor extraordinaire, Julie Smith, Jen Violi, and Louis Flint Ceci) contributed to what I thought was an excellent overview of young adult fiction. Radclyffe (a.k.a. my publisher extraordinaire) attended and posed some terrific questions to us.

On Sunday afternoon, I read an excerpt (for the first time) from my forthcoming novel Accidents Never Happen, as part of the reading series of the festival. Again, I was in the company of brilliance: Rob Byrnes, Wayne Courtois, Amie M. Evans, Joe Formichella, Suzanne Hudson, and Marianne K. Martin also read their work.

The weather couldn't have been better. Beautiful days, cool nights. Best friends. Lots of love and laughs. And, to top it off, all copies of my young adult novel Mesmerized were sold out by the end of the festival.

As it always does, the festival flew by. But a great time was had.

I'm already counting down the days until next year.

Sky Lines Makes History

2011-05-17T09:48:00.001-04:00

Jaime Rainwater (as Maggie), Jacoya Smith (as Venita), and
Bobbi Leah Tiffner (as Sarah) in the
groundbreaking production of Sky Lines.

Last week, my all-female stage play Sky Lines made history when it became the first ever theatrical production in the history of the college that I teach at, Southern Crescent Technical College. Over 300 people (mostly students) saw a performance - including a sold out matinee! For some, it was the first stage play they ever attended. The entire production was a tremendous success and I was honored to be a part of it.

Three of my students (Jacoya Smith, Jaime Rainwater, and Bobbi Leah Tiffner), worked on the show since December and invested over 200 hours of rehearsal time into the process. The result was three powerful performances that people are still talking about a week later. Yes - there were some missed lines, and the performance space was unconvetional (a lecture hall with supply closets for dressing rooms) - but for three young women with very little dramatic training to not only perform this show, but to do so with so much conviction was truly remarkable and very inspiring.

I couldn't be more proud of them.

Are You All Right in There?

2011-05-06T09:08:00.100-04:00

A one-act play that I wrote titled Are You All Right in There? is being performed at Westerville North High School in Westerville, Ohio this weekend (May 5, 6, and 7). This production marks a major landmark for this little play that could.

25 is the magic number. This weekend's performance marks the 25th production of the script. Strangely enough, the storyline was written 25 years ago this month. A celebration is in order. Or, at the least, this blog entry.

From a recent production of Are You All Right in There?,
performed at Saint Bede Academy in Peru, Illinois.

In May of 1986, when I was a sophomore at Berkeley High School, I was running late to class (no big surprise there). I literally almost tripped over a girl who was sitting alone in the empty hallway, her back against the lockers. She was crying, broken-hearted. Immediately, the scene intrigued me and her story (imagined, of course) began to form in my mind.

I went to work on the first draft of Are You All Right in There?, in the form of a short story. In it, a high school student named Gina Harbor, locks herself in the master bathroom at a raging party and reflects on her life, particularly the superficiality that constantly surrounds her, the people who have left her feeling disenchanted - her promiscous best friend, her unfaithful boyfriend, her emotionally unavailable mother. Gina's life is at a crossroads, as she's about to leave behind the small town life she's always known and breakaway, bound for college.

Contrary to popular belief, the story is not autobiographical. Although, the character of Gina certainly contains many elements of my own personality (particularly her sense of humor, love of tacos, and references to The Young and The Restless), she was much more mature emotionally than I was. She was someone that I aimed to be, but hadn't come close. The charatcer of Madeline is not based on a real person. However, she is definitely a composite of girls I knew with bad reputations (they were always the most fun to hang out with in high school). In the earliest version of the story, the character of Mickey was not the dumb, beer-drinkng, fake-crying jerk he became later. In the first draft, he was loosely based on a male dancer/model I had a crush on at school - and much of his dialogue came from a note he'd written and passed to me secretly once I got to class, just moments after the crying girl in the school corridor inspired me.

Nothing ever came of the short story for ten years.

From the first Chicago production of Are You All Right in There?

In the spring of 1995, when I was a student at American River College in Sacramento, I signed up for a creative writing class instructed by Harold Schneider. During the semester, I dusted off my long-forgotten draft of the story, revised it (including a major transformation of the character of Mickey, greatly influenced by the character of Jordan Catalano on the then immensely popular television series My So-Called Life). Mr. Schneider returned my story with the life-changing suggestion that my story would be better told in the format of a one-act play.

Although I was majoring in theatre at the time, I wasn't sure how a one-act play was written. I'd never thought about writing anything but angst-filled fiction and really pathetic poetry. I went to the school library and studied the format of Tennessee Williams's This Property is Condemned. I used the script as a template, molded Are You All Right in There? into a one-act play, and - exactly two weeks later - submitted the script to be considered for an upcoming student-directed one-act play festival.

My script was selected. And, I can honestly say, my life has never been the same since.

The first actors to play Gina and Mickey:
Marta Sobelman and Carlos Perez.

The first production was a hit, due mostly to the outstanding performances of the cast. Marta Sobleman originated the role of Gina and, truth be told, she's owned the role ever since. In the many productions I've seen of the play since, no one has been able to come close to Marta Sobleman's truthful interpretation of Gina. Carlos Perez played the role of Mickey, who came up with the idea to douse his eyes with beer and pretend to be crying to appeal to Gina's sympathies, while standing outside of the bathroom door and begging for her forgiveness. It was such a genius idea, I immediately added it to the script. Kimberly Faye Greenberg was cast against type (she was often the ingenue in our school productions, paritcularly musicals) and tackled the often-misunderstood role of Madeline fearlessly. It's no surprise to me that Miss Greenberg found incredible success as an actress. She is currently starring in the critically acclaimed off-Broadway musical One Night with Fanny Brice.

Actress Kimberly Faye Greenberg, who originated
the role of Madeline in Are You All Right in There?

Poet and artist Bryan Northup also had a tremendous hand in making the first production happen. Aside from being my best friend at school (we met in a creative writing class and shared a mutual love for tragic female poets, particularly Plath and Sexton), he was a constant source of support and encouragement from my artistic endeavors, no matter how crazy or ambitious others thought they were. Not only did Bryan design an eye-catching flier, his incredible black-and-white photos of the cast helped create a tremendous buzz for the show.

Kimberly Faye Greenberg and Marta Sobelman in a promotional photo
for the first production of Are You All Right in There?

The success of the play at my college caught the attention of Stuart Smith of the Motherlode Stage Company in the nearby town of Loomis. Mr. Smith contacted me and offered me a month-long run of a collection of my one-act plays. I was thrilled and accepted the offer.

There was just one problem...I didn't have any other one-act plays.

I locked myself away from the world for a couple of weeks, and after a self-imposed writing marathon, emerged with a handful of sketches (rather than what I consider to be fully realized scripts). Later in my career, some of these original sketches would be developed into produced plays.

Marta Sobelman reprised her role of Gina in
a subsequent production of the script in Sacramento.

Not only was the production of my one-act plays a success (again, due mostly to the cast which was comprised of my theatre classmates from American River College, including the immensely talented Melita Ann Sagar who, among many other things in her career, went on to star in the first production of my stage play Somebody's Baby, which earned me my first award for playwriting), but the theare company paid me.

Actress Melita Ann Sagar, who has appeared in many productions
of my plays, including Are You All Right in There?

This was a huge turning point for me. I don't want to say that I was influenced/inspired by money, but to offer a starving college student compensation for something I had created and for something I loved to do, it was the major shot of confidence I needed.

From the Atlanta production of Are You All Right in There?,
featuring Israel Korn.

Actor and model Israel Korn, who played Mickey in
the Atlanta production of Are You All Right in There?

From there, Are You All Right in There? soared. In 1999, editor Jocelyn Beard selected an excerpt from the script to be featured in The Best Women's Stage Monologues. Once the collection was published, I was overwhelmed by the response from actors, directors, and producers, who wanted to read the entire script. On an average, I was receiving close to one hundred emails a week from people who wanted the script.

Are You All Right in There? was published in 2003.
Since then, the script has been produced around the world
and has become one of my signature pieces as a playwright.

In 2003, the publishing company Playscripts, offered me a contract to publish Are You All Right in There? I accepted their offer and Are You All Right in There? became my first published play.

I've never looked back since.

Me with the original cast of Are You All Right in There?;
Marta Sobelman, Kimberly Faye Greenberg, and Carlos Perez.
Photo by Bryan Northup.

I'd Rather Be in Paris

2011-05-02T11:59:00.002-04:00

It's Monday. I'd rather be in Paris. Hanging out with The Plastiscines.

Don't Make Any Plans for the Weekend

2011-04-28T15:29:00.001-04:00

A mad writing maration will be happening at my house this weekend. The first draft of my fourth novel The Jetsetters is nearing completion. More determined than ever to....FINISH....THIS....NOVEL.

Here's my audio (and visual) inspiration.

Afterall, it is a rebellious book about rock 'n' roll - a gorgeous gay guitarist and a broken-hearted barista.

And, I promise you...this novel will make some NOISE.

Okay...I'm tired of writing ridiculously lame clichés (all for the sake of tacky alliteration).

I'm going to do what I do best now....shut up and write.

Final Proof

2011-04-28T13:04:00.003-04:00

I just finished reading the final draft of my upcoming novel Accidents Never Happen.

And....I'm not ashamed to admit it...I'm in love with my own book. I'm not going to lie.

Is it the best thing I've ever written?

Yes...actually, it is.

Bad Reputation

2011-04-26T15:26:00.001-04:00

Let 'em talk.
Let 'em eat cake.
Let 'em talk and eat....ugh...who cares?
Long live The Dollyrots and bad reputations.
Both make the world a lot more interesting to live in.

Throwing Muses Monday

2011-04-25T09:10:00.000-04:00

It's a Throwing Muses/only-Kristin-Hersh-could-understand-me Monday morning.

8 States in 4 Days

2011-04-22T22:09:00.000-04:00

Here are some photos from the 4-day mini book tour I went on (with my partner-in-all-things Edward) in support of my novel Mesmerized. We drove almost 1,500 miles and made it through 8 states in 4 days.

On Thursday, we made the almost 9-hour drive from Atlanta to Staunton, VA. I visited Staunton back in 2008, when I was teaching at Penn State, on a field trip with the theatre department. I'd always hoped to go back, and this trip provided the perfect opportunity to do so. We stayed at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel - awesome place.

This sign leads people to one of my favorite theatres in the world.

The American Shakespeare Center! We saw The Comedy of Errors here on Thursday night. Random trivia: I played Dromio of Ephesus in a college production of the play in 1995.

A very adorable book store in Staunton, and just down the road from The Split Banana!

I took this photo for one of my best friends, Nance Haxton. She lives in Australia (we met in NYC in 1996 during a blizzard, both trapped for days in a youth hostel together), where she's an award-winning journalist. She loves all things turtles, so this seemed like the perfect shop just for her!

I've elected this the coolest window display ever. It stopped me in my tracks.

Both terrifying and strangely beautiful. You can't look away.

On Friday, we drove to Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA. I hadn't been back to Pennsylvania in two years. The people at Muhlenberg were wonderful (super shout out to Anita Kelly). After a very yummy dinner, I read from Mesmerized and signed copies. I was thrilled that fellow Bold Strokes Books author PJ Treblhorn came to the reading! Edward and I stayed in a beautiful guest house on campus. Pictures from Muhlenberg will be posted soon (once we get them off of Edward's phone)!

Saturday morning, we were up early and off to Philadelphia! Our journey there was adventurous, to say the least. We almost ended up in Atlantic City (thanks to our less-than-reliable GPS) and had a brief detour to New Jersey.

I couldn't go to Philadelphia without taking Edward to see a bell named Liberty!

Here's Edward in Philly! We both fell in love with the building behind him. Very cool architecture!

Edward and me in Philly! I've been there twice now and love it.

A wall of beauty in Philly - right outside of the Independence Vistors Center.

I love this photo of Edward - one of the few I have of him smiling. But, I think his smile is related to the caption on the painting. I am free now.

Edward found a new friend in Philly!

A copy of my novel on a shelf in the famous bookstore Giovanni's Room in Philly! I signed copies of the book. Then, we went across the street where Edward had his first official Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich.

We spent Saturday night in Cornelius, North Carolina (photos posted soon), before heading home on Sunday morning to Atlanta! We had a wonderful time, and have a lot of beautiful memories from the trip! We can't wait for the next one!

Here and Now

2011-04-21T09:03:00.000-04:00

Because someone reminded me how important it is to live in the here and now. And, because this song (and Kay Hanley) still kick serious @$$!

Insanity (At Its Finest)

2011-04-19T12:59:00.001-04:00

I sure hope CRAZY isn't contagious.

It's days/weeks like this that make me thank the universe for such INSANE new writing material.

File under: can't make this s#!+ up.

Alanis Morissette - Crazy by louphil

The Jetsetters

2011-04-13T14:59:00.002-04:00

"I don't think the world is ready for this novel yet."

Oh, yeah? Well, ready or not...THE JETSETTERS...coming soon.

You've been warned.

Chapter 5

2011-04-06T17:24:00.001-04:00

I've just finished writing Chapter 5 of my forthcoming novel The Jetsetters, a rock 'n' roll gay love story.

The chapter begins with the line:
"They didn’t leave the apartment for the next three days"

and ends with the line:
"Diego disappeared into a cab, nearly slamming his guitar case in the door."

Writing a novel shouldn't be this much fun!

Till the World Ends

2011-04-06T07:58:00.000-04:00

Anyone else want to dance?

I Think We're Alone Now

2011-03-28T11:10:00.000-04:00

I woke up this morning with a creative fire. I couldn't get to the computer fast enough to write down all of the details from a beautiful dream I had. In it, two teen boys were madly in love with each other. The mood was innocent, naïve, hopeful. There was a purity to their love that triggered a strong emotional response - as if it were up to me to keep them together, somehow. And, that was all these two young people wanted, just to be together. Nothing else in the world mattered (or existed) for them. Only each other. It was a timeless dream - meaning I had no idea what era I was in, or even where in the world I was. There was a soundtrack comprised mostly of 60's music - including The Shangri-Las' Remember (Walkin' in the Sand) and the theme to A Summer Place (no lie). Granted, I watched the film Shag the other night, so the 60s were fresh in my mind. But the dream didn't feel like it was set in the 60s, but the music was important to both young men. The characters were so clear, so real (yet neither were based on or composites of someone I had ever met/known before in real life), they were begging to be captured, written down, recorded. They were practically shouting at me (or maybe it was the universe): please tell our story. I knew immediately this wasn't just any dream - this was the concept for a novel that has to be written (no excuses). Call it divine inspiration. Call it coincidence, luck, a vision from beyond. Call it whatever you want, but I'm going to call it I Think We're Alone Now.

Written in the Stars

2011-03-21T14:36:00.000-04:00

Anything is possible.

Tegan and Sara Northshore

2011-03-17T08:19:00.002-04:00

This video/song is a much-needed shot of adrenaline. What a sweet Tegan and Sara rush!

Janelle Monáe Cold War

2011-03-15T10:21:00.000-04:00

Words of the wise.

Waking Up to Donna Summer

2011-03-09T08:56:00.000-05:00

It must be Wednesday because this was the first song I heard this morning. Awesome way to start the day!

Dreaming of Eve Arden

2011-03-08T17:45:00.000-05:00

I had a dream last night that Eve Arden was my best friend. She gave me great advice, insisted she take me shopping. I listened and let her.

Boomkat The Wreckoning

2011-03-07T08:02:00.000-05:00

I came, I saw, I kicked some @$$...

Leap of Faith

2011-03-03T12:58:00.000-05:00

I took a leap of faith this morning; submitted my application to the National Endowment for the Arts for a 2012 Creative Writing Fellowship.

Better Places to Go Opening in NYC!

2011-03-02T08:08:00.000-05:00

My stage play Better Places to Go will be performed in NYC during the month of March at 353 Studios, located at 353 West 48th street (between 8th and 9th Avenue).

Starring Margaret Champagne, Mark Kinch, Monica O"Malley, Chelsea Terris, Jessica Alexandra Green, Thomas Leverton, Meredith Nicholaev, Shayna lawson, Colleen DiVincentis, John Bodycombe and Sue-Ellen Mandell. Directed by Tony White.

Tickets are $18. Reservations can be emailed here.

About the play...

Elly Award Winner for Best Original Script! In a run down, roadside diner in Grand Island, Nebraska, a horrendous storm is looming and ten people are about to be caught in the eye of it. In the course of one night, damaging secrets are revealed, forever changing lives. Excerpts from this script have been featured in Young Women's Monologues from Contemporary Plays, 60 Seconds to Shine, and the Audition Arsenal monologue series.

Yeah Yeah Yeahs Heads Will Roll

2011-03-01T08:06:00.000-05:00

I'm about to set the month of March on fire.

F-Bombs and Acceptance Letters

2011-02-28T20:13:00.001-05:00

I am beyond thrilled to announce that my poem Walking to K-Mart to Buy a Dolly Parton Album will be featured in the next issue of The Southeast Review.

I dropped an F-bomb in the style of Melissa Leo when I got the acceptance letter. No lie.

Adele Someone Like You

2011-02-23T08:48:00.000-05:00

This song is so beautiful, says so much. It's heartbreaking.

Metric Sick Muse

2011-02-16T08:31:00.001-05:00

My muse has been sick/tired/missing-in-action but today she is back with a creative vengeance.

Baby in the Basement to Be Performed in NYC!

2011-02-07T12:17:00.000-05:00

My one-act play Baby in the Basement was announced as an official selection for the 17th Annual NYC 15 Minute Play Festival, to be performed this spring at the American Globe Theatre!

Lush Ladykillers

2011-02-07T12:12:00.002-05:00

"Save your breath for someone else and credit me with something more. When it comes to men like you, I know the score.
I've heard it all before."

Sohodolls Prince Harry

2011-01-31T09:59:00.002-05:00

This makes my Monday bearable.

Ladyhawke Magic

2011-01-27T07:55:00.003-05:00

Everybody needs a little magic.

More Than Ever by David-Matthew Barnes

2011-01-25T16:12:00.013-05:00

This article was originally published here.

“What author inspired you the most while growing up?” This question was posed to me by a critically-acclaimed writer and professor on my first day of graduate school. I was sitting in an old classroom in an old college in an old Southern town. The other students all responded to the question with very “literary” answers: William Faulkner, Ernest Hemingway, Jane Austen.

I answered with, “Judy Blume“.

In the world of literary fiction, writing for and about teenagers can often result in a steadfast stigma, labeling you forever as “the one who writes the teen stuff”. For some reason, our work is often not taken as serious as our grown-up, elite counterparts. We get grouped in with other categories muttered with similar lowly disdain such as “chick lit”, “beach books”, and “anything written by that Nora Roberts woman”.

I’m often quick to point out 27 books by Nora Roberts are sold every minute.

And Judy Blume’s books have been translated into 31 languages and over 80 million copies have been sold…and counting.

Not bad company to be in, if you ask me.

Yet, selling a gazillion copies is not my driving force as a young adult author. I write for teenagers simply because I love to.

I write for teenagers because when I was 13 years old, a woman named Norma Fox Mazer changed my life.

Just weeks after experiencing my first kiss with a Latin boy named Pedro (after he slipped me a crumpled note that read, “Meet me afterschool because I like your stories”), my eighth grade world was lit on fire when it was announced Norma Fox Mazer – one of my favorite authors – would be making a guest appearance at our school.

After some serious campaigning to the junior high powers that be, I was one of the few students selected to have lunch with her in the library. I was beyond thrilled, having read every book she’d written. Although I was terribly star struck, I bravely showed her a section of a short story I was working on at the time and told her how much I wanted to be a writer.

Norma Fox Mazer scanned over the first page and informed me, “You already are.”

Two years later, I published my first short story. And the rest, as they say, is history.

But I never would have become a young adult author without first being a young adult reader.

Norma Fox Mazer was my best friend, without even realizing it. Each step of the way, she was there for me, guiding me through the field of adolescent landmines. She helped me cope with my parent’s divorce with Taking Terri Mueller. She taught me about death and grieving in After the Rain. She let me know that it was okay to not live like the rich kids in Silver. And she answered the questions I was too embarrassed to ask in Up in Seth’s Room.

Similarly, I learned valuable life lessons in every Judy Blume book I could get my hands on (particularly Starring Sally J. Freedman as Herself and Then Again, Maybe I Won’t). I devoured every volume in the Nancy Drew series. I hung on every suspenseful word written by Lois Duncan, and later, Christopher Pike.

Yet, as much as I read and loved each book by these authors, I could never find a true version of myself in them: a young gay boy growing up in the conservative 80s in northern California.

My first young adult novel,(set in 1986 in Sacramento), has just been published by Bold Strokes Books. While the novel explores a very timely and important topic (the life of a young girl is deeply affected by the murder of her gay older brother), the book is truly a literary tribute to the young adult authors who made me the writer I am today. Without them – and their beautiful words – I never would have sat down and taught myself to type at the age of 13.

I wouldn’t be able to recognize how much weight our words as writers carry, especially when read by young people.

Teenagers need us now, more than ever. They want us to be their best friend, their older brother or sister, their confidant. They want our experiences: the choices we made or didn’t, the decisions we’ve never second-guessed, the regrets we’ll always have. It is imperative that we share our lives with young people – not just through our words, but also by example.

After hearing Norma Fox Mazer had passed away last October, I reached out to her daughter, Anne, who is a successful writer. In a letter, I recalled my eighth grade memory of her mother in my junior high library, and of the tremendous influence she’d had on my career since.

In her response, Anne shared with me, “I was touched to hear the story about how you met my mother. She would have been so happy to hear from you again and to learn about your novel.”

In my heart, I will always carry Anne’s words, right beside her mother’s. Right next to Judy Blume’s, and Lois Duncan’s and Christopher Pike’s. Next to the characters and the stories that helped to shape my youth.

In my lifetime, I only hope my own words will one day resonate with a 13-year-old who has yet to be told, “You already are.”

Robyn Hang with Me

2011-01-25T08:46:00.003-05:00

You can hang with me anytime.

Klee Gold

2011-01-24T09:25:00.001-05:00

‎"Wir werden wie Gold sein."

Jimmy Eat World Big Casino

2011-01-19T08:22:00.005-05:00

"I play my little part in something big."

The Winter of My Content

2011-01-11T13:34:00.007-05:00

Some people hate it when you say, "I love my life". They give you a look, as if they really want to tell you, "Shut up. Please. Just shut up. No one wants to hear about how happy you are."

But, alas, it's true. Call it the winter of my content, but I'm neck-deep in giggle-inducing bliss. And it feels so good. Long overdue. Well deserved. I'm living the life I dreamed of (I know, I know - so cheesy), and each time I count my blessings, I lose count at one thousand. Or, at least until something distracts me and captures my attention.

And, then there's you - whoever you are. For some reason, you found yourself on this page, reading about me and my life. Maybe intrigue brought you here. Maybe you're bored at work and really want me to entertain you somehow. Maybe you've heard some awesome rumor about me (be careul, I might have started it myself) and you're hoping to prove it's true (it probably isn't - I'm much more boring than I appear). Whatever the reason, I'm glad you're here. In my line of work (wow - that sounds sort of pious and official), readers are everything. Without them, I'm nothing. Well...not exactly nothing...but my words would be unread. And I really want them to live on.

With the risk of making the readers of this blog entry sickened by sweetness, I will say that for many years, my life was heavy with drama, uncertainty, bruised ego, damaged self-esteem. I was stuck in a quicksand of shit (all of which was self-induced - I was/am an adult. I made choices no one forced me to make, etc.) and it really felt neverending. I was plagued by negative energy - it stalked me with an obsession. My ambition really was blind. I couldn't see beyond my own needs, wants, desires, schemes, strategies, self-absorbtion. I felt entitled. I was/am creative and talented and damn it, the world should take notice.

I turned 40 last September and with that milestone came the clarity that you hear about (from the Gospel of Oprah) but don't really believe it exists. Well, it does. I get it now.

2010 was a crucial year for me. Call it a breakaway, but I did just that. In late May, I took a leap of faith and dove head first into a sea of the unknown. There have only been a few times in my life when I felt I was truly "on my own" (cue song from Fame - see video below - it's a song from the soundtrack of my life) - one being the last couple of months I lived in Europe (yes, THAT long ago) and the other being the year I spent living in The Middle of Nowhere, Pennsylvania. I think both of those experiences - in many ways - prepared me for this newly discovered lust for life. I feel like I'm waking up for an incredibly long hybernation, wiping the sleep from my eyes, and discovering the world (or at least my sliver of it) for the very first time.

What in the hell has taken me so long? Well, as they say (whoever they are), everything happens for a reason. In my case, this has been proven to be true time and time again. Once I started surrounding myself with positive energy, it was ah-mazing how much my life changed. I wish I could offer you "before" and "after" snapshots of my life, but why depress you or make you hate me more (yes...it's true...I have some haters..they know who they are...and to them, I say "Go with God"). Just be happy for me that I finally made it to a point in my life where everything feels right. I pinch myself - and it hurts - but I do it to remind myself, "Damn, you really have come a long way." Then, I jump back and kiss myself. Um...just kidding.

Don't be fooled. Don't try this at home. I make it look easy, but I worked my ass off to shove my size ten-and-a-half foot in the door and now that I've got it wedged in, I'm not going anywhere. Take heed. You ain't seen nothin', yet. I won't be happy until I set the literary world on fire - or at least fan some wicked, hot flames.

Be warned. My ambition and creative fuel have never been more charged.

I've made so many sacrifices to make it to this point and blah, blah, BLAH. I don't want to sound more self-important than the other shameless self-promoting artist/blog writer who lives just a click away. I don't want to try to convince you that I'm the next great thing (because the Caramel Brulee Latte already exists). But, just know, I really have given up a lot to have the life I have now - but I did it to accomplish, see, live, experience, achieve my creative heart's desire. No regrets.

Okay, okay... I won't lie...of course I have regrets, but I'm not sharing them here. Are you crazy? Well...at least not in this entry.

So, I could offer you a blow-by-blow recount of 2010, but do you really want to know every crazy, sexy, cool thing I did last year? I think not. But the highlights are insisting on some glory. I published a novel for teens, and who knew it would turn out to be one of the most important things I've ever written? My plays were performed in a lot of cool venues by amazing artists (seeing Sky Lines off-Broadway was a powerful moment for me). I left California and returned to Georgia (I bet no one saw that one coming. It's okay. I didn't either). I fell in love with a man from New Mexico and he gave up the desert for a life with me in the South. I landed the most incredible job I've ever had (sugar alert: I really am one of those people who wakes up each morning and gets to go to work and do something I absolutely love to do). I wrote some of my best work (all coming your way in 2011, including two novels that I'm so freakin' proud of). I met some of the most inspiring people I've ever known. I learned to appreciate the little things - including the beautiful moments that, no matter how hard you try, can't be relived or recaptured because they refuse to be anything else but free.

And, my wonderful reader, that is how I feel: liberated.

The year ahead is full of promises that new, bigger dreams will be realized and I will let them loose to make some beautiful noise in this world. I hope, wherever you are, you can hear it. For so long, I wasn't listening. Now, I hear each note with pure clarity.

And the sound of it all is as sweet and beautiful, just as I imagined.

It's Happening This Year

2011-01-04T09:40:00.002-05:00

I have two professional goals for the year ahead.

#1: Find the perfect publisher/literary home for my poetry collection Roadside Attractions.

#2: Hope someone in "the industry" has the business savvy to option the film rights for Mesmerized.

Baby in the Basement: Coming to Austin, TX!

2010-12-29T11:30:00.004-05:00

I'm pleased to announce that my one-act play Baby in the Basement will be performed at Hyde Park Theatre in Austin, Texas on January 27th - selected for the 2011 FronteraFest!

Selected for GCTE Conference!

2010-12-16T08:54:00.001-05:00

I've been selected to present at the 2011 Georgia Council of Teachers of English Conference in February!

My topic: You Think You Knows Us?: The Importance of Young Adult Fiction.

Kelly Rowland Commander

2010-12-16T08:49:00.003-05:00

Thank God it's Thursday, because today is actually my Friday.

Words from Fitzgerald

2010-12-15T14:58:00.002-05:00

"All good writing is swimming under water
and holding your breath."
~ F. Scott Fitzgerald

Fey Provócame

2010-12-15T07:46:00.002-05:00

Here's your Spanish lesson for the week.

Eve's Plum I Want it All

2010-12-14T15:24:00.003-05:00

Pay attention Hayley Williams.

The Return of Rock Star

2010-12-14T15:23:00.001-05:00

For those of you who know what this means: Halo Jones and the members of Sour Kitten (lesbian drummer Athena and pill-popping bass player Mary Jane) are coming back! Including: the band-manager-from-hell Nina, the evil pop princess Darla Madrid, and the tough and sexy femme fatale Rebel Morrison - all characters in my fourth novel The Jetsetters!

Words from Willa

2010-12-14T10:35:00.002-05:00

‎"Most of the basic material a writer works with is acquired before the age of fifteen."
~ Willa Cather

My Fourth Novel: The Jetsetters

2010-12-10T11:24:00.005-05:00

I've officially started work on my fourth novel: a gay rock 'n' roll love story!

The book is called The Jetsetters and it's about a Latino rock guitarist and a lonely barrista falling madly in love.

The book started out as a short story about a year and a half ago, but I feel these characters (and their story) are worthy of a novel of their own.

I'm determined to finish the book by year's end. No rest for the wicked...or the insane and creative.

Seven thousand words (so far) and counting...

Florida in February? Yes!

2010-12-09T10:03:00.001-05:00

The official schedule for the 2011 Amelia Island Book Festival has been posted! I will be teaching THREE writing workshops and reading from and signing copies of Mesmerized. Florida in February...yes! Be there if you can!

A Studio featuring Polina S.O.S.

2010-12-09T09:54:00.005-05:00

Hot track alert!

La Misma Luna

2010-12-08T10:19:00.002-05:00

My students are watching La Misma Luna this week - a beautiful film. One of my all-time faves!

Sugababes Get Sexy

2010-12-08T09:50:00.003-05:00

A song to get you through Hump Day.

'Til Tuesday Voices Carry

2010-12-07T08:11:00.004-05:00

A timeless track for a Tuesday!

ABC How to Be a Millionaire

2010-12-06T08:38:00.005-05:00

This is my goal for the week - to find the answer to this very important question. Happy Monday.