Writing a "Secular" Bio

We have been approaching  a few libraries around our region to let them know that The Exact Place is available for their collection, meaning, would you please purchase one and shelve it for the millions of readers clamoring to read it. Anita (our assistant at Ransom Fellowship) has been an invaluable help in contacting and following up. Usually, they ask me to donate a copy and I usually do. Perhaps some readers will be inspired to purchase a copy – maybe as a gift for someone. Perhaps library exposure could open the door for an author’s reading which would lead to response and discussion.

One thing on my to-do list this week has been writing a bio that would be appropriate for libraries, small shops and venues that include a few chosen books. Places like that. Some aspects of this that are difficult for me. The challenge first of all is to get past me. Blah, blah, blah me. How do I write a bio without sounding neurotically self-focused? Next, is how to write it in such a way to hint that I’m a person of faith, but not a dangerous, crazy Christian. It should sound professional, but also be personal. It must be interesting, but not too much detail. It’s best to be brief. Like around 100 words or less.

I remember an editor chiding writers: why would you take all the time and effort to write a good book and then think you can whip off a summary and a bio in ten seconds. So after much deleting and drafting, I’ve come up with this. Comments and potshots are welcome.

Margie Haack lives in Rochester, MN, with husband Denis, on a small urban lot where she tries to attract bumble bees and hummingbirds with marginal success. Nature and place connect her to the spiritual geography that has shaped her life. Margie’s writing includes a quarterly publication of personal essays - Notes from Toad Hall,and her work has appeared in ArthouseAmerica, The High Calling Blog, Washington Institute for Faith and CommentMagazine. She recently shattered a platter, sucked her socks into the vacuum cleaner and backed into a parked car proving that safety lies in writing more and leaving the desk less. You can find her blogging at http://toadsdrinkcoffee.blogspot.com/.

Sometimes I have no idea. I proceed hoping God will extend mercy and that I will continue to learn as I go.