Birthdays: Charles Kingsley (1819), Johanna Spyri (1827), Djuna Barnes (1892), Anne Frank (1929), Trevanian (1931), Rona Jaffe (1932), Helen Lester (1936), Tess Gerritsen (1953), Jim Goad (1961)

Johanna Spyri is best known for her book “Heidi”

Quote: “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” ― Anne Frank, Anne Frank’s Tales from the Secret Annex: A Collection of Her Short Stories, Fables, and Lesser-Known Writings

“I can shake off everything if I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn. But, and that is the great question, will I ever be able to write anything great? Will I ever become a journalist or a writer? I hope so, oh, I hope so very much, for I can recapture everything when I write, my thoughts, my ideals, and my fantasies.” – Anne Frank

Tip: Go to writer’s conferences when you can. The classes and networking can be a great boost to your career. When you’re there, don’t just sit in corner waiting for others to come to you. It may not be easy, but get out there and meet others.

Jumpstart: On June 12, 1969, Niagara Falls stopped. It was an engineering feat never before seen, but what if it had been done by magic? Your character is a mage who must stop the water–but he’s a bit inept. What happens?