Apparently everyone is writing a novel in D.C.  I’m serious, the first line in a Washington Post article yesterday about a novelist/state department analyst is “This being Washington, every wonk has a side project.”  And I found about the article because of friend of my friend is also writing a novel while working AND blogging about the experience.  I’m not mad though, I embrace it–which is why I linked  The Manny Diaries for your viewing pleasure.

Anyway, so back to the novelist/state department analyst.  She is named Miranda Kenneally and she writes books for teenagers.  I didn’t really find the interview that helpful in terms of advice for me and Manny except for maybe this part:

Does your day job make you a better writer?

D.C. gives you a lot of structure. You don’t succeed unless you work really hard, and you don’t get anywhere if you don’t have drive. But after working a 12-hour day on some summit, coming home and writing a book for teens is relaxing.

The rest is about life in a small town somewhere.  I don’t think she or her books are my style, but I commend her anyway.  Adios!