Going to UNLV

As some of you know, I applied to grad school (MFA creative writing) late last year and early this year. I ended up getting into UNLV and the University of Washington. Washington has an outstanding program, but UNLV, which also has a strong program, made the most sense financially, logistically and, in some cases, personally. So, it looks like I’ll start taking graduate classes and teaching undergrad courses at UNLV in late August.

I have mixed feelings about staying in Vegas another few years, but I’m certainly excited about this opportunity and challenge. I’ll keep you all updated, of course.

Got work?

I’m trying to kick up some work for the spring and summer (until I, hopefully, start grad school in the fall). If you know of any freelance writing, editing or media consulting work, please let me know. Thanks!

A French-language review

My books are apparently about to be published in French or, perhaps, already have been. And this reviewer seems (it’s in French) to like the translations.

This is the first I’ve seen of the book covers, which are different from the English-language covers. Less warm, but perhaps more artistic. Still trying to decide if I like them.

As you can probably sense, my experience with the French publisher has been strange. More on this later, I’m sure.

http://laccoudoir.com/essais-documents/blue-angel-motel-sous-les-neons-matthew-obrien-2651/

Grad school update

So, I applied to six MFA creative writing programs: Iowa, Texas, UC Irvine, UNLV, Washington and Arizona. In the spring, I’ll know where I got in and what funding is available, and I’ll go from there. Very excited about the prospects!

I’ll keep you updated, of course.

Quick Christmas follow-up

Spent a few hours in the underground flood channels on Christmas Day, giving out bottled water, clothes, gift cards, toiletries and other items, with the help of a former tunnel resident. The people we encountered were, as usual, polite and appreciative. Thanks to Ted at Lynn’s World consignment store, my sister Cathy, my friends David and Molly and my Facebook friend Karine Projean for their generous donations!