Jane's reading Room
Stories, reflections, and resources for readers and writers alike
Welcome to Jane’s Reading Room – a place to explore her published works, revisit Story Sparks, and linger over insights on the writing life. Whether you’re here to read, to learn, or simply to wander through the stories that shape her work, this hub brings it all together in one thoughtful space. Browse the sections below to discover essays, writing tips, and the novels that continue to inspire readers around the world.
published works
Novels and nonfiction shaped by history, faith, and place
Story sparks
Browse Jane's recent newsletters or visit the archive for all past writings.
Jane’s October 2025 Newsletter
This reflection weaves poetry, memory, and gratitude as Jane navigates early grief after Jerry’s death—holding sorrow and hope together. Through small kindnesses, shared stories, writing, faith, and community, she honors love that endures, learns to live beyond “hanging in there,” and carries forward a life shaped by devotion, creativity, and the quiet power of tending oneself while remembering deeply.
Jane’s July 2025 Newsletter
A teenage promise made on a hot summer day at the county fair ended in a hospital room and a doctor’s hard-earned wisdom. Keeping one’s word shapes character, but life eventually teaches that honoring our limits and tending ourselves is not breaking a promise—it’s keeping one that truly matters.
Jane’s June 2025 Newsletter
In Mary’s country, I met readers, shared stories, and felt the deep joy of connection. From cupcakes to courageous women, from salt air to signing books beside poet Dana Huneke-Stone, June was a celebration of resilience, reading, and community. Thank you for making the “select group” of readers a little smaller.
Jane’s October 2025 Newsletter
This reflection weaves poetry, memory, and gratitude as Jane navigates early grief after Jerry’s death—holding sorrow and hope together. Through small kindnesses, shared stories, writing, faith, and community, she honors love that endures, learns to live beyond “hanging in there,” and carries forward a life shaped by devotion, creativity, and the quiet power of tending oneself while remembering deeply.
Storytelling & craft
Thoughts and guidance for writers at every stage
Tina Fey’s Improvisation Rules for Writing
Say yes—to the idea, the work, the risk. Commit, speak with conviction, and trust the process. Writing isn’t about perfection; it’s about purpose, persistence, and ...
Jane’s List of Helpful Writing Books
A curated list of enduring writing guides—craft, structure, voice, and faith—books I return to again and again, offering wisdom that still resonates for writers working ...
Jane and Craig Talk About Writing
On September 8, 2021 Jane was joined by Craig Johnson (best-selling author of the Longmire mystery novels) for a Zoom meeting to discuss how they ...
