Birthdays: Sir Walter Scott (1771), Edith Nesbit (1858), Stieg Larsson (1954), Mary Jo Salter (1954)

Tip: When writing a scene with setting, don’t forget about background noises we hear every day—birds chirping (or not for suspense), traffic, thunder, etc. Also think about background smells and other sensory items.

Thought for the day: “I’ve always believed that anybody with a little ability, a little guts, and the desire to apply himself can make it.” – Willie Shoemaker

Jumpstart: The old stairs creaked and groaned under her weight and she was afraid the noise would…