Mar 31, 2026 Posted by Simon Rose

Upcoming Courses – University of Calgary

Writing Fiction for Children and Youth Writing for children and youth is a rich and vibrant global market. Focus on writing fiction for readers aged 8 to 12 years. Examine the writing process from initial concept to finished work including turning ideas into stories, story structure, developing characters, creating outlines, and the importance of editing and revision. Students will explore market and... read more

Mar 29, 2026 Posted by Simon Rose

Writers to Writers – Episode 2

Check out the latest Writers to Writers podcast at Write by the Sea here on YouTube.  In this episode we chat about creating plots, hooking the reader, crafting great pacing, developing your characters, and... read more

Mar 28, 2026 Posted by Simon Rose

Shadowzone – “a great read … Highly recommend this series!”

“Time travel, alternate worlds, and societal sub-cultures are blended into a great plot, and a gripping and relevant read. The environmental stewardship aspect of this story echoes our current day challenges, as do the almost prescient references to a dangerous virus. Characters were well drawn and the reader is cheering for their success. The three books in the series flow smoothly together. A great... read more

Mar 27, 2026 Posted by Simon Rose

An Interview with Valerie Walker

My guest today is Calgary author, Valerie Walker. Welcome, Valerie. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your work? Thanks Simon, it’s a pleasure to be here. I’m self-published and am the author of four books in the Hedley the Hedgehog series, two time-travel historical fiction books set in Calgary and Kananaskis Country, and one YA adventure novel set in Italy in the summer of 1956. I... read more

Mar 26, 2026 Posted by Simon Rose

“A well-written, suspenseful time travel story sure to keep readers engaged till its very clever ending.”

The Sorcerer’s Letterbox In a hidden drawer in the base of an old wooden box, Jack discovers a letter from a boy calling himself Edward. Penning a reply, Jack is astonished to be corresponding through time with the boy king Edward V, one of the famous Princes in the Tower, murdered by King Richard III. Travelling back in time, Jack attempts to rescue Edward V and his brother from their fate, but is... read more