Jennifer Akers :: Freelance Writer

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Life as a Freelance Writer

I am a freelance writer, book reviewer, and editor for online and print media. Since I'm multi-titled (note to self: change to multi-talented), I combined my work into a snapshot of my writer's life. It's not about the glamour (gotta find out when that starts), but it sure feels better than scribbling "I want to be a writer" on dream career questionnaires.

I've included my own work: my human interest articles, personal essays, and book reviews. I love finding well-written stories: rounded characters, complex plots, realistic dialogue. When I do find those kind of stories, I often highlight the authors on my sites.

New writers often ask me for advice and tips, so I've included helpful links to my portfolio, other Squidoo lenses and websites plus my favorite resources: how-to writing books, new authors, writer gifts, writers' organizations, and writing websites.

Thanks for visiting me on Squidoo - my favorite social network!

Drop me a line and say hi - I'd love to hear what you're writing and reading!



Join Jennifer on Squidoo

Jennifer Akers :: Writing Portfolio 

Visit my portfolio for more published articles and book reviews. My human interest articles focus on strengthening families, nurturing children, and ending domestic violence.

Jennifer Akers :: Portfolio

Professional Writing Portfolios 

Showcase your work in these professional portfolios. Place your copy on all black sheets for a uniformed look. Choose the appropriate size depending on your clips - full newspaper clips will need larger size portfolio sheets.

Use an electronic portfolio to showcase your talent online!

Lenses by Jennifer Akers 

Author and Music Lenses Donate to Charities

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How To Celebrate Mother's Day Without Mom
Mother's Day can be a difficult holiday for those of us who have lost their moms. My mom died 12 years ago. I still miss her terribly - and most pointedly on Mother's Day. I know everyone's relationship with their mother is different. I enjoyed a wonderful relationship with my mother; I admired her, ...


Family Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day is traditionally a romantic day for couples. But your sweetheart can be anyone you love, including your kids. Need some ideas on how to turn "Ooh baby" into "Oh, the baby"? Keep reading on how-to create a family Valentine's Day complete with ...


Perfect Valentine's Day Gifts for Her and Him
"The pressure's on ... should I give her chocolate shaped flowers, real roses, or a beary adorable stuffed bear for Valentine's Day?"Flowers, chocolates, and cute stuffies can be good Valentine's Day gifts. What about a special gift that makes her melt? A gift that shows her ...


Largo Florida
Largo, Florida, located on the west side of Florida, is nestled between the cities of St. Petersburg, Seminole, Clearwater, and Tampa.If you've never visited Largo, you're in for a surprise. First, Largo is not the famous 'Key Largo' on the bottom edge of Florida's coast. Keep reading for more things to do and see ...


Discover Gulfport, Florida
I love visiting Gulfport, a small beach town close to St. Petersburg, Florida. The city hosts community events, like bi-monthly art shows (with their local artists), Springfest, 4th of July celebrations, Gecko Fest, Christmas celebration with a lighted yacht parade, and more.


Happy Mother's Day - Perfect Gifts
Do you know what makes a perfect Mother's Day gift? Thoughtfulness and Love.


Kids TV Shows Headquarters
I'm the co-creator - with my son - for this group. "Kids TV Shows" will feature lenses about different kids TV characters, cartoons, and kid actors.We want G-rated, fun lenses that talk about their favorite TV show or character.Come join THE BEST group for all kids TV shows!


Grief & Loss Club Headquarters
I'm the co-moderator for this Grief & Loss group, which features lenses that have information, resources and support to anyone grieving a loss. The Grief & Loss Club is one that people do not choose to join, rather it is a club that their experience of grief has given them entrance.


Jennifer Akers Best Freelancewriter Ever
Squidoo's sister site, Best Ever!
Jennifer Akers is the Best Freelancewriter Ever.
Read the interview "Jennifer Akers Shares Squidooing Secrets".


Cas Haley & Woodbelly - Virtual Concert
When I first heard about the virtual concert for charity, I couldn't decide which musical talent to feature. I like a lot of different music, spanning various genres. Talking with my husband, I thought of the perfect musician - Cas Haley.


Who is Cas Haley?
In 2007, Cas Haley was a contestant on the U.S. reality television show, America's Got Talent. Cas amazed the audience in his very first performance: singing Sting's Walking on the Moon, a cappella. His runner-up standing didn't dash his dreams: he's got a growing fan base, concerts around the U.S., and a debut, self-titled release.

Cas Haley Video Showcase
Native Texan, Cas Haley, made a big splash on the U.S. reality television series, America's Got Talent. The audience loved his rendition of Sting's Walking On The Moon and songs from other famous artists. The career of this singer-songwriter, and runner-up on AGT, is going strong.

Flannery O'Connor
Flannery O'Connor was an American author, born in Savannah, Georgia. Her work, considered the classic Southern Gothic genre, has influenced authors, artists, and musicians.O'Connor, best known for her short stories, also wrote two novels Wise Blood (1952) and The Violent Bear It Away (1960)...

What Matters to You? Family Matters for Tween Parenting & Blended Families
If you answered, "Family Matters", you've arrived at the right place. While I'll address many family issues, my lens will focus on tweens and step-parenting.


Dennis Lehane
Have you seen the movies Mystic River or Gone Baby Gone? Novelist Dennis Lehane wrote the books that later turned into those memorable movies by Clint Eastwood and Ben Affleck, respectively.


We Love SpongeBob-Squarepants!
The cute and happy Spongebob sang his way into our hearts. We've enjoyed the Spongebob television show, videos, music, books, and room decor. We're sharing some favorites here! My son took the lens photo of one of his zillion Spongebobs.


We love Legends Of The Fall
Legends of the Fall (1994) is the best movie for drama, action and romance. The film stars talented actors: Anthony Hopkins (as Colonel Ludlow), Brad Pitt (as wild child Tristan Ludlow), Aidan Quinn (as straight-laced Alfred Ludlow), Henry Thomas (as idealistic Samuel Ludlow), Julia Ormond (as the brothers' love-interest Susannah Fincannon)...


My New Challenge: Giant Squid 

I'm working on a new challenge: to be a Giant Squid -- this is an honor given only to lensmasters who create 50 quality lenses. Deadline is June 15, 2009. I'm not quite halfway to the 50, and it's not an easy road. Not only do I need to meet the quantity of 50, but ALL of those 50 need to be spectacular quality content.

Don't worry: I've got support. I'm a member of Kab's Fab Squid Squad. Check out the cool badge I got.






We're in a Squid-friendly race, where Giant contestants battle to the deadline. Do you want to see the other lensmasters on the team? We're adding fresh lenses there every day.

Visit: Kab's Fab Squid Squad

Jennifer Akers Shares Squidooing Secrets 

Carolyn Howard-Johnson interviewed Jennifer Akers for Squidoo lensbuilding tips. Read the entire interview on Carolyn's blog, Sharing With Writers and Readers, named a "Writer's Digest 101 Best Websites".

Sharing With Writers - Jennifer Akers Shares Squidooing Secrets

Carolyn Howard-Johnson is the founder of Authors' Coalition, an award-winning author and poet and an instructor for the UCLA Extension Writers' Program.

Carolyn Howard-Johnson is the author of The Frugal Book Promoter, the first in her HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. TFBP is a USA Book News Best Professional Book and an Irwin Award winner.

Social Networking 

Where Am I? Check Out the List!

 

Jennifer M. Akers :: Freelance Writer
Jennifer Akers, freelance writer and book reviewer, provides writing services for online and print media. Readers and writers can find book reviews, writing resources & contests.
Squid Writing by Jennifer Akers
My blog on Squidoo lenses, lensmasters, and my own work. I recently joined the Squidtop bloggers, and I'm learning a lot from friends. Join us!
MyShelf.com
Reviewer at MyShelf.com. Check out our website for authors, book reviews, contest books, and discussion. For both readers and writers!
Jennifer Akers - LinkedIn
View Jennifer Akers's professional profile on LinkedIn. LinkedIn is the world's largest business network, helping professionals like Jennifer Akers discover inside connections to recommended job candidates, industry experts, and business partners.
Facebook: Jennifer Akers
Are you on Facebook? Come visit me and discover the latest on writing, books, authors, marketing, promotion, social marketing, and more. I've added my Squidoo lenses and profile link - grab the applications for yourself.
MySpace: Jennifer Akers
Visit my MySpace page. I've added areas of interests: fine art, news of the day, social causes, my squidoo and webpage pages, and my blog posts.
Shelfari: Jennifer Akers (Hdrusa) Bookshelf
Join Shelfari, meet other booklovers and find new books for your TBR pile. It's fun - and free. Build your shelf and discuss your favorite stories and authors. My bookshelves include books I've read personally and professionally, as well as my wish list.
Liberate News - Where local Tampa citizens report to a community newswire that makes a difference.
I recently started posting on this community site, where local Tampa citizens report to a community newswire that makes a difference. Over 90 communities so far. Discover what's happening in your neighborhood.
Twitter / Jennifer_Akers
Twitter is a free social messaging utility for staying connected in real-time. I primarily tweet about social networking, writing, books, and parenting.
Jennifer Akers's Page - Twitter Moms
Jennifer Akers's Page @ Twitter Moms, the group for moms who twitter. Join moms with your interests, such as Twitter Newbies, Freelance Writing Mamas, Social Media Moms, Moms Who Review, and Local Communities. Create your own page and find new friends.
Digg / JenniferAkers
Digg is a place for people to discover and share content from anywhere on the web. From the biggest online destinations to the most obscure blog, Digg surfaces the best stuff as voted on by our users.
Jennifer Akers - FriendFeed
Send links to your FriendFeed, which is shared with others who subscribe to your page. Create and join groups; keep updated on your friends' pages. Discuss the latest links with friends. Add other networks, which will update your Friendfeed.
Indian TV Today
A blog about Indian Television News, plus discussions and contests. I'm a new guest writer bringing views of international TV entertainment.
Jennifer Akers - EzineArticles.com Expert Author Bio
Jennifer Akers is an experienced freelance writer, book reviewer, copywriter, and editor. She contributes to several online sites and blogs, with topics ranging from local events, business, social marketing, parenting/family, and writers' resources. She writes content for herself, individuals, and businesses ...
Goodreads : Jennifer Akers
What are you reading right now? What's on your to-be-read list? Share your favorite books with friends in this book-friendly social network.

SQUID LOG 

 

News Magazine : Blog Index : Squidoo Resources

I've recently started blogging at SquidLog: writer Jennifer Akers. I'm honored to be offered a position among the other amazing lensmasters. SquidLog is an ezine of Squidoo resources and blog resources.

Squid Writing by Jennifer Akers 

My blog about Squidoo lenses - mine and others.

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It's Official .... 

News = Happy Stories 

Really. News Can Be Positive.

My articles are published on HappyNews.com, which reports positive stories on local, national and international events.
100 Friends, charity originates from one man's childhood dream
American Professor and a Hundred Friends Save Lives in Third World Countries
The gift of Thanksgiving: Teaching children to be thankful
How do you teach your children to be thankful in an age of instant gratification?
Teaching children physical fitness
"I did this so that our little children would have a chance to experience the joy of moving through space, the joy of completing something that at first seems insurmountable. It is important also that they have a self-perception of themselves as someone who can complete things," said Kay Morris of her founding purpose for Marathon Kids.

Need articles? I can help! 

Do you need quality articles on parenting, family, education and human interest topics? Are you looking for a freelance writer who delivers by deadline? I write quality articles for online and print media.

Check out the section "News = Happy Stories" for examples of my work. Topics (with a 500 - 1200 word count) cover how-to, feature and human interest.

My writing receives rave reviews from editors, clients, and readers. Contact me to write your publication's must-read articles.

Jennifer Akers :: Fiction Book Reviews 

Trailer Parks, Iran & Suburbia - Intriguing Settings

My reviews are published on MyShelf.com. The following books top my favorites list. You'll find unique voices among these new and established authors.
Kensington's Soul by Faith V. Smith
Kensington's Soul :: Bound by Blood, The Legends by Faith V. Smith

Zacke Kensington believes in justice. As a Savannah police detective, his work is filled with slime of the earth criminals, who try to bribe, fight, or lie their way out of going to jail. Confronted with their horrendous crimes, Zacke fights his desire to kill the perpetrators himself.
Every Heart Has Its Day by Lynda Lukow
Lady Kasey Cameron embraces her gift of healing, but newly developed visions of the future unnerve her. She cannot shake her latest dream of a young man with golden brown eyes, wavy hair, and a desire for her.

Beware What You Wish by Faith V. Smith
Romance novelist Leah Hawkins explores England's Knightley Hall for historic nuggets to include in her next book. Researching the crumbling castle proves time-consuming and back-breaking, but stubborn optimism keeps her clinging to the tower's slippery steps.


Burn Notice: The Fix by Tod Goldberg
Michael Weston's life is complicated. He dodges commitment from on-again, off-again girlfriend, Fiona. He plays the understanding buddy to Sam, who basically protects him unless free food, complementary drinks, or his sugar-mama calls.

Sword of God by Chris Kuzneski
The young Korean boy heard screams echoing from the hill. Tortured screams that traveled down to his room night after night. The bloody scent kicks the boy into an adventure ...

My review is quoted on Chris Kuzneski's website.

Mr. Monk and the Blue Flu by Lee Goldberg
Investigator Adrian Monk wants two things in life: to solve his wife's murder and to get his police badge back.

My review is quoted on author Lee Goldberg's blog.

Between, Georgia by Joshilyn Jackson
Nonny Frett wants true love and family peace -no small task considering she was born smack-dab in the middle of the Frett-Crabtree feud.

Coronado by Dennis Lehane
Coronado: Stories highlights five short stories and a play by award winning author, Dennis Lehane. In "Out of Dog," Elgin Bern knows the danger that lies between want and need.

Cracked Pomegranate by Fae Bidgoli
In Cracked Pomegranate, thirty years separate the childhoods of Fatima and Mina.

My review is quoted on author Fae Bidgoli's website.

The Kindness of Strangers by Katrina Kittle
How well do you know your best friend? Would you know if your trusted confidante participated in illegal and immoral behaviors?

The Abduction of Adam Danik by Ron Karcz
Jack Danik makes no excuses for his past. He has weathered some rough times: a lost singing career and minor run-ins with the law. Jack's biggest heartache is missing his son, Matthew.

New Author : Lynda Lukow 

New Historical Romance

The Wild Rose Press introduces novelist, Lynda Lukow's Every Heart Has Its Day, a historical romance.I read an advance excerpt, and Lukow expertly draws readers into the drama and romance.

From the Heart of Lynda Lukow

Visit Lynda Lukow's blog. She's smart and funny. Bookmark her blog, so you can revisit.

Writing and The Ridiculous

Lynda Lukow won honorable mention for her short story, "Marriage on the Menu". Read this romantic story at:The Long and Short of It.

New Author - Faith V. Smith 

Love romance? Read Beware What You Wish, by new author, Faith V. Smith. It's available now from The Wild Rose Press.

You can find more about Faith V. Smith at her website,
Faith V. Smith

Her second novel is the start of a series: Bound By Blood, The Legends. The first book Kensington's Soul, was released March 2009. Here's an excerpt to Kensington's Soul.

Dunbar's Curse will be released in 2010. Don't miss this exciting series of hot vamp heroes, battling their nemeses, and claiming unending love to their strong women. I love these characters, and I'm sure you will too.

"Jennifer is a terrific book reviewer ... She was honest but not mean-spirited in her critique."

Jennifer Akers :: Non-Fiction Book Reviews 

My book reviews are published on MyShelf.com. Enjoy this sampling from business, health, humor, and self-help.

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Secrets of Social Media Marketing by Paul Gillin
Do you think of social sites, like MySpace and Facebook, as online playgrounds? Don't dismiss them from your marketing plan, as social networking can be instrumental in your business success. Not convinced? Ask the leaders at Coke, IBM, and Roomba.

Me, Myself, and I by Sandra McLeod Humphrey
Does your life seem boring when compared to your friends'lives? Do you wish you were an only child so you wouldn't have to deal with with your annoying sibling? Does life suddenly seem complicated with rules from teachers, parents, and friends? If you're a tween, you've probably asked yourself similar questions.


Tragedy in Tin Can Holler by Rozetta Mowery
The town neighbors reported hearing horrendous screams, but nobody wanted to interfere in "family business." Seig Mowery had viciously beaten his wife, a mother of six, to death.
Hot Issues: Cool Choices! by Sandra McLeod Humphrey
No matter the town or school, kids are struggling with the social complexities of their peers. Bullying receives huge ...

Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink, Ph.D.
Do you think a large dinner plate makes you eat more food? Do you think you would drink more from a wide, short glass than a slender, tall glass?

Rich Dad's Advisors by Blair Singer and Garrett Sutton, Esq.
Read by Jim Ward, Robert T. Kiyosaki, and Bill Ratner

Rich Dad's Advisors: Box Set, Volume 1 provides meaty, practical advice to start and run a successful business ...

Apartment Therapy by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan
Would you like a top interior designer to redo your apartment? Does your apartment need more color or a deep de-cluttering?

Queen Klutz by Marti Lawrence
Have you ever had a day where mishap andmisunderstanding ruled? What if the words unlucky and unbelievable defined your life? Sit tight - that's exactly how author and humorist Marti Lawrence describes her life.

The Key by Joe Vitale
Do you act on your visualized goals only to land short? If you're lost after reading books like The Secret, then author and internet guru Joe Vitale ...

The Complete Book of Aunts by Rupert Christiansen and Beth Brophy
Would you describe your aunt as generous, matronly, childless, single, wild, or tough? What role does the aunt play in today's family?


Broken Windows, Broken Business by Michael Levine
Do you ever notice dirty storefront windows and worn carpeting in your favorite restaurant?

My review is quoted on Hachette Book Group's Business page.

The Momnificent™ Life by Lori Radun
How would you describe your life as a mom? Do you feel your life is hectic and tiring or balanced and fun? In The Momnicent%u2122 Life, author and life coach Lori Radun coined the word "momnificent" to refer to moms who lead a positive, healthy and balanced life.

"Jennifer is an excellent editor; she also exemplifies the highest standards for public relations."

My LinkedIn Recommendations 

For more recommendations of my work, check out my LinkedIn profile.
LinkedIn: Jennifer Akers
Jennifer Akers's professional profile on LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a networking tool that helps users like Jennifer Akers discover inside connections to recommended job candidates, industry experts and business partners.

MyShelf.com's Author of the Month 

Joshilyn Jackson Named MyShelf's February Author of the Month

Joshilyn Jackson is the author of 3 novels: gods in Alabama; Between, Georgia; and the upcoming March release of The Girl Who Stopped Swimming.

Read my interview with Joshilyn Jackson, MyShelf.com's Author of the Month. Ms. Jackson generously answered questions about her writing and characters. I highly recommend all her work.

Joshilyn Jackson: MyShelf.com Author of the Month

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Osborne.

Books by Chris Kuzneski 

MyShelf.Com's Author of the Month, October 2007

MyShelf.com chose Chris Kuzneski as October's "Author of the Month". Check out my interview with Chris, where he graciously answered questions about his work.

"MyShelf.com Author of the Month : Chris Kuzneski"

I recommend all of Kuzneski's books. The books can stand alone, but the same best friends, kick-ass action duo appear in all three.

Kuzneski's next two books will come out in hardcover, and he's currently at book signings for Sword of God.

Believe me, you'll be impressed with this author.

The Plantation

Synposis: A ski instructor disappears in the secluded mountains of Colorado. Hours later, a pregnant woman is grabbed in a crowded hospital and smuggled past security without a hitch. Two places, two incidents, a single motive. And so it begins....

First of the Payne and Jones series. A new edition will be released in hardcover, Spring 2009

Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

Sign of the Cross

Payne and Jones must beat international time to prevent horrific, random killings across continents. They discover more than dead bodies as their race heats up and threatens the foundation of Christianity.

Amazon Price: $7.99 (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

Sword of God (Payne & Jones)

Payne and Jones must find and stop one of their own MANIACs who conducted terrorist interrogations with off-the-radar torture. Their mission unearths a path of international deception and holy destruction. (October 2007 release)

Amazon Price: $7.99 (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

The Lost Throne (Payne & Jones)

Watch for Kuzneski's fourth thriller. The Lost Throne will be released by Penuin UK in October 2008. The US release will be in 2009.

Amazon Price: $17.13 (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

Freelance Writing, Copywriting & Promoting 

How-to Write and Market Your Work

Can you have too many books? Ahem. That's not a question for a true reader ... or a writer! I'm sharing some of my favorite resources.

Writers will love these authors for their expertise on writing, marketing and making money. True masters offering everything you need to be successful!

On Writing

Readers and writers will love this book from famed-horror writer, Stephen King. Brief touches from his psyche, King gives writers the inspiration and practicalities of writing.

Amazon Price: $7.99 (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

The Well-Fed Writer: Financial Self-Sufficiency As a Freelance Writer in Six Months or Less

Heard of "starving artists"? Master copywriter Peter Bowerman shows you the way to a writer's feast.

Amazon Price: (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

Secrets of a Freelance Writer, Third Edition: How to Make $100,000 a Year or More

Master copywriter Robert Bly outlines an A-Z steps for starting your freelance business. Not only has he "been there, done that" - Bob knows how to do it best!

Amazon Price: $12.24 (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

The Great First Impression Book Proposal: Everything You Need to Know About Selling Your Book in Twenty Minutes or Less

Award winning author and poet Carolyn Howard-Johnson will teach you how to sell your book ... in 20 minutes ... for only 49 cents!

Amazon Price: $0.49 (as of 11/30/2009) Buy Now

You Wrote A Book, Now What? 

Hilarious vid by freelancer, Dennis Cass, on book promotion.

book launch 2.0 0 points

My Favorite Writing Tools 

 

Don't Leave Home Without 'Em

**MOLESKIN Notebook - Journalists' mainstay. I like the smaller size; I can pop the notebook in my purse or folder. This size lends itself to private notetaking in front of interviewees.

Moleskine Small Plain Notebook - The Legendary Notebook of Hemingway, Picasso, and Chatwin - Moleskin Blank Book Journal Imported From Italy 3-1/2 x 5-1/2 Inches 192 pages

**OLMPUS Digital Voice Recorder (with handy PC conversion disk), 8 hours of recording, mini mic, 4 folders, ability to index, clear recording.

**CANON PowerShot - Need a fantastic point and shoot? I love my PowerShot! My best friend gave it to me as a gift, and it takes fantastic photos.

**ENERGIZER 15 Minute Charger and Batteries - You know how fast digital cameras eat batteries? Go green and buy a rechargeable batteries kit.

What are your tools of the trade? Add your favs!

Moleskine Small Ruled Notebook

Moleskine Small Ruled Notebook

This long-standing tradition was continued by writ more...2 points

Olympus VN-4100PC Digital Voice Recorder

Olympus VN-4100PC Digital Voice Recorder

Record uninterrupted audio on the VN-4100PC then t more...1 point

Canon Powershot A1000IS 10MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom (Blue)

Canon Powershot A1000IS 10MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom (Blue)

The sleek design of the PowerShot A1000 IS is as r more...0 points

Energizer NH15BP-4 ACCU 2500mAh Rechargeable AA Batteries (Four-pack)

Energizer NH15BP-4 ACCU 2500mAh Rechargeable AA Batteries (Four-pack)

Energizer Rechargeable NiMH round cell batteries' more...0 points

15-Minute Battery Charger Kit

15-Minute Battery Charger Kit

*Charges four AA or AAA NiMH batteries in 15 minut more...0 points

Recommended Writing Sites & Author Blogs 

Writers' Associations & More 

Success With Self-Help Books 

Creative and Inspirational Gifts for Writers 

Writers don't live on caffeine and deadlines alone. Inspire the writers in your life with these gift ideas.

Voices - Main Character - Standard White Tee

Fits authors to a Tee ~ "I do what the voices tell me. Today they said kill the main character."

Price: 15.99 Buy Now

Announce your philosophy with this magnet - 'Lit Happens'.

Price: 0.00 Buy Now

Robert Frost Quote Rectangle Magnet

"No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader." ~ Robert Frost

Price: 6.99 Buy Now

EMERSON ~ What lies within us! Tote Bag

"What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." ~ Emerson

Price: 16.99 Buy Now

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My Writing Bio 

Let's start at the beginning. I was born in Florida ... Okay, let's skip those first, creative years of drawing on the walls and posing for every photo op.

I have a shocking confession: I love to write, and I've been writing since elementary school. Are you crunched on the edge of your crimson sofa cushion? Okay, it's not a shocking admission for a writer, given that's usually an innate and pre-requisite skill. Usually, readers like to know how and when the passion for writing started.

My imagination fueled far more stories than school assignments could. I tagged alongside my umpire uncle to baseball games and practiced writing play-by-plays and game summaries. Cute boys may have been a motivation too, but my uncle kept the players on the field and me away from the playing field.

As many writers have done, I reported for my school newspapers. Due by Friday? No problem! My verbs don't agree? They'll be married by deadline. At seventeen years old, I wrote a bylined column for a local weekly while writing for my high school paper as editor-in-chief.

I pursued Literature at Eckerd College. A new love bloomed, wrapped innocently in a required Sociology course. I loved learning about the similarities and differences in group behavior, norms, delinquency, cultures and family matters.

A Sociology major seemed a more viable career than writing, and a fascination with social behavior lodged in my heart. In my twenties, I had not imagined the benefit of Sociology's understanding of society, behavior and influences on my writing career.

After college, I worked as a case manager, finding community and in-home services for seniors. Several years later, my road swerved around many tumbling boulders. After the dust settled, my first passion -my writing - glowed with sparkling possiblities.

Now, I'm a freelance writer, for online and print publications. My articles cover parenting, children, family, relationships, and education. I focus on step-parenting, single parenting, tweens and only children. I also write short stories and essays.

I am a book reviewer and review coordinator for MyShelf.com. I write non-fiction reviews in business, self-help, women's health, relationships, financial and home. In fiction, I primarily review mystery, general, children's and women's lit. As review coordinator, I edit, format and compile review documents before assigning them to our editors.

My experience includes editing and writing business letters; newsletters; ads; web articles and website content.

I've taken intriguing career paths, with writing nestled in my heart. My favorite part has been re-igniting a dormant passion.

Personal Essays 

"Child's Play" was written for a contest with a beach theme and 300 word count. I wrote of an impromptu evening at the beach with my son and our friends. Kids can remind us of the hope and joy that dances within them.

"I Used to Think" was written for a contest with the title words as the only criteria.

These personal essays are completely different in tone, but they touch on issues close to my heart: nurturing children and ending domestic violence.

"Child's Play" and "I Used to Think"

Do You Squidoo? 

Join My Favorite Social Network

Got a burning desire to share? Join Squidoo. You'll be off and running in no time. It's fun. It's easy.

It's addicting...that good kind of addiction where, fun and dedication means sharing your work AND making money.

"Show Me The Way to Squidoo!"



Do you need more reasons to build your Squidoo lens? Use my referral link, and we'll both earn money. When your lens earns its first $15, both of us will each get $5 - free!

Icing on the cake.

Join Jennifer on Squidoo

Wait! Drop me a line ... 

... I'd love to hear from you!

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by JenniferAkers

I am a freelance writer, book reviewer, and editor for online media. I love social marketing - Squidoo's my favorite.



My personal interest centers o... (more)

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