Dragonstone Tablet

WHY I PICKED THIS

The "MADE FROM SCRATCH" newsletter dives into a very specific niche relevant to a particular type of user: someone interested in creating and running contests. This focused approach immediately appeals to those looking for actionable information. It reveals insights about contest ownership and the process of "inheriting" contests. These details would likely be unknown to someone new to contest creation. It also acknowledges and thanks original contest creators. This fosters a sense of community and demonstrates respect within your contest environment.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT

What I like about this newsletter is that it offers practical guidance. It breaks down the contest creation process into easy-to-follow sections, covering everything from understanding existing contests to generating unique ideas, and even emphasizes elements like clear design principles and learning from experience. The supportive call to action at the end, along with offering the "Contest Clues"  resource, makes participation feel accessible to readers. Overall, it functions as both an informative piece and a welcoming invitation, vital aspects of creating a vibrant community around your contests.

WHY I PICKED THIS

The "HARVEST FESTIVALS" newsletter starts with real-world history, giving readers a tangible connection to harvest festivals. This historical context can be a great seed for world-building and establishing a deeper sense of tradition in a fantasy story. The newsletter then highlights how harvest festivals can be adapted to various settings, noting that some are broader community events, not just gatherings for farmers. This encourages writers to consider how different cultures and societies within their stories might approach the concept. Most importantly, the newsletter goes beyond basic information and directly challenges readers to apply the knowledge. It asks, "How can you use harvest festivals in your...stories?" followed by concrete suggestions to involve characters or plot points. This direct inspiration can be invaluable.


WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT

What I like about this newsletter is that it is concise and informative, delivering a clear historical overview of harvest festivals plus their potential uses for writers – all within a few short paragraphs. I also like the action-oriented approach, where writers aren't just given information but are prompted to actively use it. Finally, the questions at the end make the newsletter feel like a conversation, fostering a sense of community and encouraging creative exchange among writers.

WHY I PICKED THIS

The "ON BULLYING" newsletter is a must-read because it does more than just inform. It uses human experience and a critical lens to encourage self-examination, challenge reader apathy, and offer a hopeful path toward collective accountability in fighting a serious problem. The author immediately connects with the reader by sharing their own less-than-pleasant experiences. This fosters a sense of shared understanding and breaks down the barrier of feeling "othered" by discussions on bullying. The newsletter uses examples from the author's life to show that while some progress has been made, bullying remains far too common. This creates a sense of urgency and a call for action against a very real social problem. It goes beyond the simple "bad home life = bully" trope, suggesting other factors like the negative influence of internet figures or envy. This nuanced view invites readers to consider the wider societal issues that contribute to bullying. Emphasizing that bullying extends into workplaces and adult life broadens the issue. Readers may find greater empathy when they realize bullying isn't limited to kids in schoolyards.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT

What I like about this newsletter is its combination of storytelling and analysis. Instead of a purely clinical examination of bullying, the writer weaves in personal experiences, historical examples, and modern concerns. This makes the content more accessible and engaging. I also greatly appreciate the strong call to action. The ending isn't just about sympathy for victims; it asserts that everyone plays a role in preventing bullying. Finally, the author acknowledges that there's no simple answer, prompting readers to consider meaningful, sustained change.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT

The "AT ONE WITH NATURE" newsletter offers a compelling reminder about the healing power of nature. The author's vivid descriptions of the sights and sounds surrounding their new home create a sense of awe and tranquility that is contagious. Their honest reflections about the stress-reducing benefits of spending time in nature make a strong case for why all of us need a dose of the natural world. Importantly, the author recognizes nature isn't always idealized, but strikes a balance between enjoying the outdoors and appreciating modern comforts. This relatability makes the message more accessible.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT

What I liked about this newsletter is its emphasis on accessibility. The focus on finding nature in urban environments, even if it means a few potted plants, is both practical and empowering. It makes the idea of reconnecting with the natural world feel achievable for anyone, no matter where they live. I also appreciate the author's final call for gratitude and a sense of wonder— a reminder that our connection to nature is something to be treasured and protected.

          Newsletter #5: "Caught on video"  by Arakun the twisted raccoon
Surveillance tapes and other video in mystery stories (Mystery Newsletter - January 11, 2023)

WHY I PICKED THIS

The "CAUGHT ON VIDEO" newsletter highlights the transformative role of video in modern criminal investigations. It moves beyond the simple concept of "security cameras" to show how even everyday devices and seemingly incidental footage can be crucial. The real-world examples offered, like the Moscow, Idaho murders, illustrate how video isn't just about catching someone in the act - it's about tracing movements, narrowing down suspects, and building a much more thorough case. Importantly, the newsletter balances this with the reality that while video is powerful, it's not foolproof. Criminals adapt, and the need for traditional investigative techniques alongside the analysis of footage is made clear.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT

What I like about this newsletter is that it's both informative and thought-provoking. It covers the basics of video in crime-solving but leaves the reader wondering. It sparks questions about privacy implications, the potential for even more widespread surveillance, and the evolving "cat-and-mouse" game between law enforcement and criminals in this technological age. It's a great starting point for further discussion on a fascinating topic.