When you admit to non-Tribals you are a Writer, often their eyes glaze over, as they give you "that" patronizing smile.
Then, when you whisper the word - CRIME - they put on their protective shields, stammer they have an urgent meeting, and vanish…
But mention the magic word C-R-I-M-E to a fellow Tribal and you are at once held by the warmth of instant bonding!
Most folks who write Crime Fiction are far from being criminals themselves. Most of us are guardians of our Precious Earth Planet.
We have deep respect for Fellow Tribesmen, regard them as dear friends and colleagues.
I bear great honor for people of my Tribe… some names are engraved upon my soul: Marilyn Henderson, author of over 60 novels, who honored me as Crime Book Reviewer for her early email work, Lady M.
Mel Berger, eminently wise agent of the Great and Famous, who is the best writing coach on the planet!
And many others: Alice Orr, versatile early pillar of the Mystery Writers, Leslie Budewitz, now SinC President, a thoughtful sharer.
Bob Knightly, Esquire, Jim Fusilli, Al Ashforth, for diverse expertises and professionalism.
Andy Peck, whose lawyerly guidance taught us how to stay within the boundaries.
Hallie Ephron, Hank P. Ryan, and Robin Hathaway (R.I.P.), who share with untold numbers of crime-writing Tribals their wisdom.
Earl Staggs and Kaye Barley, two of the friendliest Tribals on the planet!!
The hundreds of crime writers who have inspired us, not only with their writing, but their braininess and guts in swimming through the icy torrents to get published!
Please give your thanks, as I do today, for the Tribals in your life, who have inspired, nurtured, advised you --- in your own swim through the icy waters of the sea of publishing!
Tell us who your own Tribal Guides have been !!!!!
Thelma J. Straw
