AnshaKotyk Welcome, everyone to this week's #mglitchat -9:00 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis My technology tells me it's 9 pm! #mglitchat here we come! -9:00 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk Tonight we discuss tech in mg fiction. #mglitchat -9:01 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Ladies and gentlemen, #mglitchat is on! Come share your brilliant brains! #mglitchat -9:01 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk So what angle shall we discuss Jo? #mglitchat -9:01 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz I'm a'feared of technology. I try to ignore it when I write books. Still not sure if that's a good idea or not. #MGlitchat -9:02 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Why don't we start with the benefits of technology in MG fiction? How can we use tech to move a story forward? #mglitchat -9:02 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk I would like to add, that technology failed me this week. Longterm power outages are no fun! #mglitchat -9:02 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis Personally, I think technology is a barrier to my MG WIP. I don't want my MC to be able to use Google and create plot holes! #mglitchat -9:02 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
earthwards I'm back and forth here but wanted to say HALLO! #mglitchat -9:02 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders Anything we say here could be obsolete next month. #mglitchat -9:03 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @earthwards Hiiii! #mglitchat -9:03 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @AnshaKotyk Sorry to hear that! Hope your power is back on now :). #mglitchat -9:03 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz HA HA. So true. RT @rhondasaunders: Anything we say here could be obsolete next month. #MGlitchat -9:03 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis Benefits....huh. #mglitchat -9:03 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @rhondasaunders That is true, tech evolves at a staggering rate! #mglitchat -9:03 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @WaldenPondPress Power is back. now if only there was tech that would clean out the freezer and fridge for me! #mglitchat -9:04 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @AnshaKotyk @rhondasaunders Challenging! Need to include it to feel modern, but don't want to date the story. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress Indeed :) RT @elissacruz: HA HA. So true. RT @rhondasaunders: Anything we say here could be obsolete next month. #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore For MG characters, tech can alleviate not yet being old enough to drive, by allowing them to access everything at fingertips. #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
PoseySessions RT @JoWhittemore: Why don't we start with the benefits of technology in MG fiction? How can we use tech to move a story forward? #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Tech can also allow us to suspend disbelief. Would a character know such-and-such fact automatically? If they had internet, sure. #mglitchat -9:06 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore That's true! Tech allows our mg characters the ability to "get around" #mglitchat -9:06 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore But I see that as a drawback...they know too much! #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Those are great examples. I think we can write about tech in such a way so we don't date our work. any examples? #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis if the character can know too much then can't we just raise the stakes/conflict? #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis Ahhh, yes. But that also creates an awesome character...the tech genius evil mastermind! :-) #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders MG characters have more freedom to be out and about without parents, realistically, because they have phones. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz The longer technology is around, the easier it is to put in a book. A computer? Totally believable. A tablet? Maybe not yet. #MGlitchat -9:08 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk Artemis Fowl! RT @JoWhittemore: @KDuBayGillis . But that also creates an awesome character...the tech genius evil mastermind! :-) #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders ...or whatever personal phone-type thingies will be called next year. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson @AnshaKotyk I think if you stay away from too many specifics it helps, but can't get around some dating #mglitchat -9:09 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
PoseySessions RT @JoWhittemore: For MG characters, tech can alleviate not yet being old enough to drive, by allowing them to access everything at fingertips. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @AnshaKotyk That is EXACTLY who I think of! #mglitchat -9:09 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @AnshaKotyk I have technological failures in my WIP. Maybe a cop-out? #mglitchat -9:09 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Tech in stories also helps us convey that sense of urgency. Everything is right now, real-time. Helps reader feel in the moment. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson I find ways to make characters' cell phones inaccessible or inoperable, can't really have an adventure with easy access to help #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz I also think technology needs to be generic to work. Too specific about how the tech works will date the book. (IMO) #MGlitchat -9:10 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock RT @JoWhittemore: Ladies and gentlemen, #mglitchat is on! Come share your brilliant brains! #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @KDuBayGillis like what? #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KarenninaPosa hi folks. What did I miss so far? #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis maybe but it depends. Does it make sense for your story, or do you feel that it's a cop out? #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JoWhittemore Tech is my bread and butter (as a MG science fiction writer it's essential) #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @elissacruz Agree. And if you stay away from namebrands, you can avoid the "dated tech" dilemma better. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk True RT @elissacruz: I also think technology needs to be generic to work.Too specific about how the tech works will date the book.#MGlitchat -9:11 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @spacejock Love science fiction and all the tech gadgetry it brings! #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @KarenninaPosa Not much. Three new iPhones have been introduced since we started. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DalyaMoon I love "dating" my books. I have people use specific technology, like Facebook, and I also set a date. I'm wacky! #MGlitchat -9:11 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JoWhittemore #mglitchat There's also the whole 'learning to use new tech' aspect, which can be great plot-wise. -9:11 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @spacejock Yes, excellent for world-building! #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DalyaMoon ... but I'm self-published, so my books don't have to wait 2 years to go into production. #MGlitchat -9:12 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @deegarretson @AnshaKotyk I agree and there are certain tech. elements that don't date themselves as easily as others #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock I think that's what i enjoy about SF is the new tech angle. And if it's believable I love it! #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @AnshaKotyk I think it makes sense...but that could be wishful thinking! #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JoWhittemore With scifi you have freedom but also have to be careful not to info-dump. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @WaldenPondPress Agreed. We'll always have some form of telecommunication, for example. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @DalyaMoon And Facebook will probably be around for awhile, so you don't risk of dating yourself too quickly. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis Ha ha! Time for a beta reader/crit partner #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @spacejock This is true. Too much exposition can be a bad, bad thing. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @AnshaKotyk It's just like farmboy becomes king - character exposed to the new and wonderful. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KarenninaPosa @rhondasaunders LOL. "new" is relative, in that case, IMO. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore You can also make tech seem less dated by drawing attention to the fact that it IS. Think retro! #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore @WaldenPondPress Another thing in MG favor, not all kids have access to every technology. Do all have cell phones? #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders But how do you manage to sound authentic while being generic? Nodoby uses an unspecified search engine. They Google. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @JoWhittemore Yes :), and some type of mobile device, even if the functionality changes #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk YES !RT @JoWhittemore: You can also make tech seem less dated by drawing attention to the fact that it IS. Think retro! #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @rhondasaunders I usually just say "did a search for..." #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KarenninaPosa so, are we talking tech as in current tech, past tech (steampunk?), future tech (time travel?)? #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson @KDuBayGillis not where I live, 12/7th grade seems to be when parents give in to cell phones. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore - Nope, it's realistic to have a MG character without a cell phone #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @JoWhittemore perfect. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @rhondasaunders Make up a new and cooler search engine for your story! "You know, after that Google thing went under..." #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz @rhondasaunders Yes, but you don't have to tell us that they used their Samsung Galaxy to search Google. #MGlitchat -9:16 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore So we have all these excellent ways technology enhances our stories. How does technology work against them? #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @rhondasaunders #mglitchat They can 'search the web' rather than 'google it'. Although 2000 years from now, will it be a 'web'? -9:16 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore Now a MG character who doesn't know how to use the internet? That's a stretch (have seen this before) #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Right off the bat, I think dystopia. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @WaldenPondPress Yeah, that's a little far-fetched. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @spacejock Well if my story isn't relevant 2000 years from now, forget it. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JoWhittemore #mglitchat have to be careful tech doesn't become deus ex machina. Saved by the cell. -9:17 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Why, how tech doesn't work in dystopia? not sure I understand. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore This makes me think of THE ONLY ONES where character literally builds the web out of string!!! #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @AnshaKotyk No, no. I mean, technology usually causes dystopia. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders RT @spacejock: @JoWhittemore #mglitchat have to be careful tech doesnt become deus ex machina. Saved by the cell. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk Agreed. big no-no!RT @spacejock: @JoWhittemore #mglitchat have to be careful tech doesn't become deus ex machina. Saved by the cell. -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @rhondasaunders I meant my story is set in the far future, meaning I can't use google, the web, cell phones at all. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson @WaldenPondPress @KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore Yes, they do know how to use internet, but often believe too much of what they read! #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Yes, THIS. --> RT @spacejock: @JoWhittemore #mglitchat have to be careful tech doesnt become deus ex machina. Saved by the cell. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb #mglitchat Hi! I'm late but I finally made it back to a chat! What's the topic? -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
coachhays64 @JoWhittemore Technology can break the logic of the story or world or it can get too technical and draw from the story. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @spacejock OH! Hehe. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Ah tech causing dystopia... good take, although not my fave stories, (geeks love tech) #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz Technology kills a mystery, too. It's difficult to have an adventure tracking down a name when you can google the info instead. #MGlitchat -9:19 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @coachhays64 Yep, if it starts to read more like a manual, it's no good. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @ktubb technology! Use, abuse, misuse. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @elissacruz YES, that. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @elissacruz YES. This. Technology kills a mystery. Or makes it really hard to keep MC from solving it right away. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @elissacruz Very good point! Especially if the guy's hobby on Facebook is "Killing people" #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes @elissacruz I tried to sidestep that by making MC too poor to have internet service #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @spacejock Thank you! #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes Oh, by the way, hello, all! #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes I should clarify "at home". Certainly could use library/school. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @elissacruz I think when tech makes the mystery too easy, as writers we need to twist it up... so he can't solve it with google. #MGlitchat -9:21 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JenniferCEstes I get around comms by making galactic roaming plans too expensive for everyday folk. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JenniferCEstes @elissacruz Good solution. My MC's mom has the laptop at the store. (And she can't find facts on the web.) #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore So tech can work against your characters if they abuse it, become too dependent on it, gain false info from it...what else? #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson Trying to google info. & failing can still be done, because kids have a hard time filtering through the vast amount of info #mglitchat -9:22 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb #mglitchat Just finished my first urban fantasy - was hard working around cell phones! Made them a hindrance (could be tracked...) -9:22 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz @AnshaKotyk Yes. I've have to think more outside the box when writing mysteries than I did in pre-internet days. #olderthantheweb #MGlitchat -9:22 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore Keep them sedentary...don't care about getting out to have adventures, as someone mentioned. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @ktubb Nice - great solution and so creepy! #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @deegarretson I helped a MG school with web filtering software. Always blocked the wrong stuff - could be used in a plot. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb #mglitchat Mysteries and tech - definitely difficult! Imagine Encyclopedia Brown now - Google Search Brown?! :) -9:24 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis sedentary true. if all your adventures are online. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis Good. Makes them uninterested and unaware of the real world around them. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @deegarretson In other words, filters so restrictive they make searching useless. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
Trirae @deegarretson That's an excellent point. Even adults can misuse google and search poorly. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes @DalyaMoon Just another hardship that MC must overcome -- technology geekdom. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KarenninaPosa @spacejock That's a good idea. No internet at home, plus blocked sites at school = no access = adventure #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JenniferCEstes ah, my own personal challenge. :) #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Tech can also destroy friendships in stories. Think of the errant text to the wrong friend, or "hilarious" video put on YouTube. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @WaldenPondPress Thanks! It was interesting, facing that. I've written historical fiction to date. :) #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @spacejock @deegarretson Or maybe information is obscure enough that no one really thought to do a wikipedia page on it?! #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @ktubb I bet - that is quite the shift. Good for you for tackling something totally different. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Tech as part of the conflict is always fun. :) #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
coachhays64 @spacejock @deegarretson Very true. The filters could lock a tech resource MC was relying on to solve a problem. Good thinking! #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KarenninaPosa Maybe make info not so well-known. It's on page 20 of Google search. MC doesn't find it at first, then comes across it later? #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @JoWhittemore Interesting, yes! Tech can drive the plot. Just read GOING UNDERGROUND - texting pics. (And hi! :) ) #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @ktubb Hi, you! :-) #mglitchat -9:28 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @KDuBayGillis Or maybe internet cut off because elder sibling downloaded music/movies/etc? (Get sponsored by MPAA!) #mglitchat -9:28 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
WaldenPondPress @dalyamoon That can definitely work - especially if the technology helps to set time and place for your story #mglitchat -9:28 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis Have noticed recent MG sales about kids getting sucked into video game worlds...#mglitchat -9:29 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis Ah, the resurgence of TRON #mglitchat -9:29 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @coachhays64 It's also easy to configure filters to block file types. Maybe incompetent dad blocked jpg or txt? Or html? #mglitchat -9:29 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes The nice thing about technology is it's fallible -- things crash, get viruses, etc. Unreliable! So MC can't always rely on it. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Can a modern story be written WITHOUT technology mentions? #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JenniferCEstes Exactly. Isn't that why Terminator had to come back? Or Wargames worked? #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore How reliant upon it are we to move a plot? #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @KDuBayGillis @George_Ivanoff would know all about kids in video game worlds ... #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore A modern story without tech? hmmm #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @JenniferCEstes Good point! Batteries die, no chargers... #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore That is the million dollar question. I think kids will notice the absence if a modern story. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz @JoWhittemore Definitely. I have a manuscript that doesn't mention technology once, yet agent said it felt like a modern story. #MGlitchat -9:32 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
raeannparker I think we shouldn't rely on technology to move the plot, but it would feel unrealistic if not included in story. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @elissacruz @JoWhittemore That's awesome. What's your secret?? #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes @KDuBayGillis Yes! But imagine the twist when kids who expect it, rely on it, have it taken from them. How to deal w/out it? #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
earthwards Good to remember- even w/ tech, people/readers still relate to the same core conflicts/problems. Tech changes, not the heart! #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @elissacruz brilliant :) would it then fall under timeless? ;) #MGlitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @KDuBayGillis Right, you've almost got to at least explain it away, at least. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JoWhittemore My characters resort to Morse code after tech fails. They're studying 'ancient tech' at school (email/cell/etc) #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @elissacruz Very nice. How did your characters communicate? Just real-time face-to-face? #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson @JoWhittemore I think definitely yes in middle grade, would be really tough in YA modern story #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen ooh, lookey there - #mglitchat is going on! what's the scoop tonight? -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JoWhittemore So, totally 100% tech motivating my plots. Very important. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @spacejock Hehe! Ancient tech. Love it. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes Yes! RT @rhondasaunders: @KDuBayGillis Right, you've almost got to at least explain it away, at least. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz Oh, wait. I did have one line that said he was sitting in front of a computer. But I'm cutting it. #MGlitchat -9:33 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @raeannparker Agreed! (And hi! :) ) #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @rhondasaunders That's my approach, for better or worse. At least until I figure out @elissacruz's secrets! #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @DustHansen Howdy! We're talking technology in MG fiction. Can a story succeed without mentioning it? #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes My MC has to resort to microfiche for research.... talk about explaining an ancietnt technology! #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
raeannparker @ktubb Hi there! I usually log on too late. So glad to join in. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @JoWhittemore nice- right up my alley. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson Do any of the Penderwick stories have mention of tech? #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz It's all real-time, face-to-face, mostly in the classroom communication. I use a lot of art instead of technology, though. #MGlitchat -9:36 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore I think it's possible if you set it outside the classroom--family roadtrip, hanging at a museum *cough* Mixed-Up Files *cough* #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @JenniferCEstes Oh, you have to describe the seasick-feeling one gets when watching microfiche spins by! ;) #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JenniferCEstes @rhondasaunders My MC gets her first cell phone and then promptly loses it...#mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
raeannparker @JenniferCEstes I bet the use of microfiche could add some humor. I have trouble using it for sure. :-) #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @elissacruz In the classroom? Fascinating. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @KDuBayGillis Now that's realistic. Trust me. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Also, I think a small-town setting can thrive without technology. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JenniferCEstes The best thing about tech in MG books is NOT using it. More inventive & interesting to find basic alternatives #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen Tech in YA and MG needs to be authentic. My son closed LITTLE BROTHER and refused to go on, claiming "Xbox can't do that" #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes @raeannparker Oo, yes! #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz @KDuBayGillis My secret is that I'm afraid of technology so I try to ignore it whenever possible. #truestory #MGlitchat -9:38 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen if you use tech, do your research and be ready to adapt becuase things change and your audience WILL know #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore I actually go that route, too...bad cell coverage. Lack of internet. Very helpful! #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
coachhays64 @ktubb @JenniferCEstes Or the pure joy of trying to load the dang things up in the reader without embarrassing help of librarian. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb #mglitchat Trying to think now of last mg story I read with little or no technology... Hmmm... -9:38 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk tech failure: house alarm going off, grr. brb #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @spacejock @JenniferCEstes I like that - and I completely agree. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson @DustHansen that's why I avoid all mention of video games, xbox, etc. totally clueless, my kids don't own any of them #mglitchat -9:39 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis It's nice to be able to see the character as an individual WITHOUT the need to rely on technology. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
elissacruz I hate to leave, but I've got to rush off to a meeting. Sorry to head out early. See you all next week! #MGlitchat -9:39 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes @coachhays64 EEK!! #mglitchat -9:39 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen also, be authentic with use. IE. 12 year old foster kid, might not even know how to text, her middle-class friend can be a pro #mglitchat -9:40 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore I agree, but will kids feel like they are "real" characters w/o tech in their faces 24/7? #mglitchat -9:40 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JenniferCEstes okay, checking out now -- DH is home and dinner is ready! #mglitchat thanks, mods, and looking forward to the transcript! -9:41 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @deegarretson always best. The avoiding part - not the owning part :) #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @coachhays64 @jennifercestes Upside-down and backwards is almost always how I load microfiche. :) #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
Georgia_McBride @DustHansen didn't read LITTLE BROTHER. But perhaps tech in that world can? that bk has quite a lotta fans. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis That's why my characters do a handful of tech-related things. BUT to have them be totally tech smacks of laziness. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @elissacruz Bye and thanks! #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
coachhays64 I turn the tech tables in my WIP. MC with limited tech has to rely on the help of a wired elderly populace in a retirement home. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen I'm a video game developer veteran, working with the largest publisher on the planet and I don't dare use gamer tech in my books. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson @DustHansen now I understand! :) #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @coachhays64 That sounds hilarious!! #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @JoWhittemore I like that idea - that it's hard to gain character development when too much tech is involved. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @Georgia_McBride yeah, it should, but as an adult I could look at it as fantasy, but it feels realistic except the tech parts. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
Georgia_McBride @DustHansen why does being a foster kid mean texting know-how limited? #mglitchat not sure that is best example? -9:43 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rhondasaunders @DustHansen Ooh, that's too long to retweet, but, how interesting. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @Georgia_McBride also, for the record, I enjoyed the book quite a bit. In fact, I suggested it to him :) #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @deegarretson hehe :) #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @JoWhittemore A lot of MG authors grew up in relatively low-tech world. We need to appeal to modern readers & be authentic #mglitchat -9:44 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @coachhays64 ha ha -0 love it! #mglitchat -9:44 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @Georgia_McBride true - sorry, should have picked a better one. How 'bout orphan? Underprivileged 12 yr old. #mglitchat - thanks :) -9:45 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @ktubb If things can be solved with the press of a button, we don't get to see how the CHARACTER would handle the problem. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @spacejock @JoWhittemore I agree with this statement alot! Are we longing to limit the use of tech b/c of our limitations? #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @DustHansen I'm a huge gamer but have avoided including games in my books for now. Set in future & don't want to guess wrong! #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis @spacejock I limit the use of tech because it makes things too easy, not because I want characters to SUFFAH! >:-) #mglitchat -9:46 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @spacejock yeah, I think your right. If you were self pubbing and knowing your ship dates within 6 months, then sure, but...#mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
Georgia_McBride @DustHansen alternate reality perhaps, where known tech works differently? just a thought. #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore yes, some conflict can be solved by a push of a button but the human condition remains. Conflict/Growth=always #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @spacejock I think if an author is tech-savvy, might lead to a story that uses tech in innovative ways. I'm not that writer. #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @spacejock but if you're going traditional and still working on your book, what will the tech be like in 2-3 years? #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @JoWhittemore Like pressing the big red Easy button for Staples - the easy way out for the writer. :) #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @spacejock Facebook gaming was a glimmer in the eye of the future 3 years ago. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @ktubb exactly. I enjoy the challenge that current tech creates for me as a writer. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @ktubb Yes, as @spacejock said, a deus ex machina...literally! #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
coachhays64 @KDuBayGillis I started the story, then my mom bought an iPhone on which she now txt's & fb's me often, thus an idea was born. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @Georgia_McBride yeah, now that I can dig. I think the problem is when we try to make it seem believable and real-world. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @DustHansen Mine are far-future but don't want to go all cyber punk. Not at all keen on implants, that kind of tech. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
brendan_gannon If your protagonist's problems can be solved by the push of a button, technology's not the issue--look harder at your conflict. #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
deegarretson @DustHansen Ack! I wish Farmville had just stayed a glimmer, and all those other things I block #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Great line and concept.! #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen RT @AnshaKotyk: @JoWhittemore yes, some conflict can be solved by a push of a button but the human condition remains. Conflict/Growth=always #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @KDuBayGillis Interesting question! For me, I hesitate to use anything specific ("iPod") for fear of dating it in few yrs. #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @DustHansen Re facebook gaming ... but I played Tradewars on BBSs in the 1980's #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen RT @brendan_gannon: If your protagonist's problems can be solved by the push of a button, technology's not the issue--look harder at your conflict. #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
rachelgrinti @brendan_gannon I agree! We have lots of problems that can't be solved with technology. #MGlitchat -9:49 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
coachhays64 RT @brendan_gannon: If your protagonist's problems can be solved by the push of a button, technology's not the issue--look harder at your conflict. #mglitchat -9:50 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen If you're going self pub, this changes. Dates can be more predictable and immediate. The tech horizon is within view. #mglitchat -9:50 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
Georgia_McBride @DustHansen I hear you. Oddly, I have an alt reality MG. certain things like tech are recognizable, but different in function. #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Good point! RT @brendan_gannon: If protag prob can be solved by push of button, tech not the issue--look harder at your conflict. #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @brendan_gannon Great point! :) #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen If you're working on your MG now, focusing on traditional pub, be ready to make changes.2-3 years is an eternity in tech world. #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
brendan_gannon I think it's safe to name names with major tech--I know an author whose editor made her change 'mp3 player' to 'ipod.' #mglitchat -9:52 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @DustHansen Ha! The technology of self-pub allows writers to use more current tech in their writing! #mglitchat -9:52 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
Georgia_McBride @ktubb @kdubaygillis but that could be a good thing if you want to ground the piece in time. #mglitchat -9:52 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @Georgia_McBride I love that concept - it makes it recognizable, but give you a ton of freedom :) #mglitchat -9:52 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @spacejock oh crap - me 2! Man, if only my kids could like something that cool #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore But I still won't rely on tech to solve my character's problems. :-) I want ingenuity! Blood, sweat, and tears! #meanauthor #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Yes, blood sweat and tears, please. #lovetobecruel #meanauthor #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @DustHansen Hubby (tech guru) says Moore's Law: technology can double (2x fast, 2x small) every 18 months(ish) #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore I'm in your camp. #notechsolutionsforyou #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore @AnshaKotyk Dance for me, puppets!! Muahaha! #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen I think adults readers are more forgiving. I'm fine with sloppy tech references, I would guess MG audience is more particular. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Unless it's science fiction, of course. Then that's a whole different situation. #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @DustHansen as an adult reader if anything tech or sci is incorrect I put the book down, unable to read it. just can't do it. #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen @ktubb for sure, in fact, it might be going faster and smaller. #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
pvoelkel Hi, sorry, late to #MGlitchat. Fascinating topic. Tech is big problem for us in Jaguar Stones books. City boy in jungle - has to shed all. -9:57 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen 3 years ago the PS3 and 360 were hot. Now, games are being played "in the cloud" and heading that way more an more. #mglitchat -9:57 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
spacejock @AnshaKotyk Do you groan when spaceships roar past the camera? I know I do. #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
pvoelkel No, only house phone, I think. "@deegarretson: Do any of the Penderwick stories have mention of tech? #mglitchat" -9:58 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock *grimace* #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
DustHansen gaming, reading, tweeting, communication...will be ubiquitous - platform agnostic. it's going to be fun to watch. #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
ktubb @Georgia_McBride True, but would be more for histfic? Unless part of goal is snapshot of era, like "It's Like This Cat" #mglitchat -10:00 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock But for some reason I still like the 'sound' of the ships on battle star galactica... #mglitchat -10:00 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock nostalgia I think. #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
JoWhittemore Ladies and gents, chat is officially over, but you are welcome to hang! And next week, we'll be talking about science fiction! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 3rd, 2011
No comments:
Post a Comment