This week celebrates the 3rd anniversary of the launch of Ten Fingers Touching. It’s a good time to share an update on what’s happening with the story. In the past several years, I’ve had numerous book signings and I’ve also given many talks on Truth in Fiction: Lessons Learned from Fairy Tales. I’m often asked if there will be a sequel to Ten Fingers Touching.
I know what the sequel should be, but I’ve been concentrating on writing the screenplay adaptation of the story. With the support of Carl Kurlander, President/CEO, Steeltown Entertainment, I sent the book to a company in Hollywood that evaluated it, “Good for film potential.” Overjoyed, I hired a screenplay analyst. Since then, my writing partner, Steve Fine, who edited the book and I have been working on the film version.
It’s a very exciting and challenging process. Most books that are transformed into movies have to be pared down because they have too much content. In my case, we’ve had to add content. So, the film version has more back story, action, drama, conflict and twists.
I’ve already started looking for a producer/ production company ― someone who can help take this project to the next level.
In the meantime, for those living in Pittsburgh, please check out my billboard on Bigelow Blvd. headed towards downtown before Polish Hill on the right-hand side. I bought this billboard at a charitable auction in support of the frail elderly who have depleted their financial resources and receive care through UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund.
Best wishes to all for the happiest of holidays and all good things in the New Year!
Fairy tales have evolved over time. Many of the fairy tales we know so well through Walt Disney films were written centuries ago for adults. Their themes often contained acts of violence that were considered too scary for children.
Tragedy befalls the most famous lovers in romantic literature. Romeo drinks poison and Juliet plunges Romeo’s dagger into her chest. In a similar vein, Antony, receiving false news that Cleopatra has died, falls on his sword; but he is only wounded. Carried to Cleopatra, he dies in her arms. Shortly thereafter, Cleopatra inflicts herself with bites from a venomous snake and joins him in death.
The holiday season is special. Colorful lights, joyous music, delicious food, being with family and friends are traditions we all cherish. We enjoy the holidays and often recall our pleasure in celebrating them as children.
I’ve been working on the screenplay adaptation of Ten Fingers Touching for several months. Friends and fans have asked how it’s coming along, so I thought I would comment on its progress. My writing partner, Steve Fine, who edited the book, and I are working with a screenplay analyst who is guiding us through the creative and technical side of screenwriting.
While working on the screenplay adaptation of Ten Fingers Touching, I’ve also developed a talk on: Finding your Happily Ever After: Lessons Learned from Fairy Tales.
So much has happened since my last newsletter! Ten Fingers Touching appeared on the front cover of Publishers Weekly, on the back cover of FAE: Faeries and Enchantment Magazine and was featured at two Barnes & Noble book signing events. It has a 4.5 star rating on Amazon! I’ve also developed an engaging presentation on “The Enduring Appeal of Fairy Tales and their Relevance for Adults.” It is both substantive and fun and has been well-received.
