Kim Van Sickler loved to read and write as a child, but then life happened and she pursued careers in PR/marketing and law instead. However, that nagging voice was always there, whispering in her ear, "What the hell are you doing?"
When her life finally settled down after a particularly nasty divorce, she caved to the voice and began working on an MG witch fantasy. That manuscript led to an MG mermaid urban fantasy. Now she'd like to find an agent to represent her.
Kim is a member of SCBWI. Two of her short story fantasies won first and second place in the Center for Writing Excellence's Fiction in Five contest and are published in anthologies.
http://www.write-brained.com/2010/08/writers-best-friend.html
http://thebookshelfmuse.blogspot.com/2011/11/wanted-agent-like-sam-phillips.html
http://www.write-brained.com/2011/11/life-isnt-fair-motto-isnt-just-for-kids.html
http://aplaceforwriters.wordpress.com/2011/11/14/guest-post-hail-the-hardships-embrace-the-misery/
Where I'm From
I am from zinnia’s, marigolds, and snapdragons
I am from zinnia’s, marigolds, and snapdragons
entered every year in the flower and vegetable contest,
finishing second every time.
Now…the drool-worthy tomatoes and licorice-smelling basil
slathered in olive oil and smothered with thick slices of mozzarella.
I am from plucking chords on my guitar, pretending to be the long-lost sister of David Cassidy from the Partridge Family, on the bean bag chair in my walk-in closet.
Now…writing and choreographing shows for Claire’s Girl Scout troop: “Boogie Shoes”, “Cotton-Eyed Joe”, “Mystery of the Missing Meatball”, “Timewarp 2.0”.
I am from “’Til death do us part,” a dewy-eyed, child bride;
a liar, when I stormed out sixteen years later.
Now…partnered with the first one’s polar opposite,
confident I learned from my impetuous first leap.
I am from two pitocin-dripping, womb-stretching, pain-screaming explosions of joy
who made me a better person, re-focusing my life forever.
Now…a full hand of children filling my home, clumping together,
then going away again. The new generation
who will make their own damn way.
Kim Van Sickler
Writer, Willoughby Hills, Ohio
