JacketFlap connects you to the work of more than 200,000 authors, illustrators, publishers and other creators of books for Children and Young Adults. The site is updated daily with information about every book, author, illustrator, and publisher in the children's / young adult book industry. Members include published authors and illustrators, librarians, agents, editors, publicists, booksellers, publishers and fans. Join now (it's free).
Login or Register for free to create your own customized page of blog posts from your favorite blogs. You can also add blogs by clicking the "Add to MyJacketFlap" links next to the blog name in each post.
Blog Posts by Tag
In the past 30 days
Blog Posts by Date
Click days in this calendar to see posts by day or month
Visiting schools has always been a wonderful adventure for me.
However, the yen to go further afield, and visit classrooms that were previously too far away to contemplate, always nagged at me. I wanted to load up my Magic Carpet with books, ideas, and intriguing things that would "HOOK Kids on Reading," and even hook them on writing stories of their own.
I had an urge to fill receptive and fresh young minds with the thrill of writing stories, the fun of creating characters, and the satisfaction of finally feeling their fun plot come alive on the page.
Not to mention the pleasure of my actually reading one of my own books to a class full of (hopefully) eager listeners.
WELL, NOW I HAVE DONE IT
and it feels YAHOO-ish!
Or, "extra grouse" as the Aussies would say.
The school I Skyped with was in Maryland.
( No real names or school names for safety sake)
These Grade one students were old hands at using Skype. I was the bumbling new-chum. Such an array of smiling and eager faces. Such smart kids. Intelligence buzzed around that classroom like music from a well practiced orchestra, with the teacher, Ms. Mary Catherine, conducting and guiding all of them. I was nervous at first - after all, so much could go wrong! I had never Skyped a class before. Would they fidget and yawn? Would I fluff my lines, or forget what to say? Would I get cut off and be left with a blank screen? YIKES!! Everything sailed along as smooth as maple syrup on a waffle. I began to enjoy myself. I HAD FUN! Who wouldn't have fun with such a bright bunch of kids.
And these old hands at the Skype game loved to ask questions:
About the Mama Grizzly Bear book I read to them
About Aussie animals
About me
I guess they would still be asking questions if I had stayed with them on Skype.
Bright, intelligent minds always want to know the HOW and the WHY of things.
Thanks to their teacher, I have just received a package of the most amazing drawings and stories from this first grade class. The idea was to write about someone they knew, and then draw them, with the things they liked about the person as a part of the drawing. I could not fit in all the pictures, so I chose just three for you to enjoy.
Every drawing was unique and super imaginative -
I LOVED EVERY ONE OF THEM
Ann drew this picture.
Jake drew this one.
Nora drew this.
Stephen drew this.
Note the eyes, hair, and mouths etc - all fit the descriptions of the people each child wrote about.
THEY ARE AWESOME!
So there you have it. Thanks to these terrific first graders in Maryland, and their teacher, I am no longer a new-chum at class Skyping.
I am sending this big hug, and many thanks, to
Ms. Mary Catherine and her amazing students.
**********************
Books for Kids - Manuscript Critques http://www.margotfinke.com
************************
10 Comments on YEA! - My first SKYPE VISIT to a School!, last added: 2/22/2013
That's a wonderful way to visit with the children and inspire them with your stories and knowledge, Margot. And what a great experience for you! I'm proud of you for taking on this technology challenge so beautifully, and what a special reward getting the pictures from the children!
This is amazing, Margot. I love how it gives us freedom to connect with readers anywhere in the world and am impressed by the school too - being able to organise and set this up. I'm interested in how you organised it in the first place - did you just advertise your availability online and they contacted you or did you send out queries? Either way, great work!
Thank you so much ladies, for your kind words. I did have fun. The kids were wonderful to work with too. I send out a message on various social networks and received some replies. One from Australia, and another from Canada, as well as the US. Once you have your basic times and program set up, it just means tweaking to fit specific needs.
Books for Kids - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
What's so hard about thinking up a plot, plus some great characters, and mixing them all together into one wonderful story?
You just KNOW you can Grab Readers by the Throat!
Sigh. . . Before you put finger to keyboard, please think about how you felt when you were ripped off by that El-cheapo plumber, mechanic and repair dude. So please, don't do the same thing to people who love to read. Let me guide you in the ways go good writing that is tight, terrific, with not a "waffle" in sight - all safely in the kitchen, where they belong, looking for the maple syrup.
Network among other writers and pick their brains. Join a good critique group. Their writing feedback and support will be a godsend in times of rejection - and there will be many. Read a bunch of books in the same genre you intend writing. This will give you a feel for the genre, and an idea of what publishers want.
If it has been a while since Ms. Writeit rapped you over the knuckles for that rash of commas, and those 4 line compound sentence, take a refresher writing class. Basic skills are vital. With that under your belt, you are ready to tiptoe into the morass of plot and characters.
What the heck is tight writing?Editors say you must have it. There are tight shoes, tight schedules, and tight budgets. Everyone knows what those mean. However, mention tight writing, and many of you scratch your heads. I'm hoping that by the time you reach the end of this, tight writing will no longer be a mystery.
Focus Is The Key:
Keep your focus on what moves the story along. Avoid side paths that hijack your plot and take the story nowhere. Rough out an outline of your idea - beginning, middle, and ending. Keep an eye on the small details. Good pace and tension building are harbingers of tight writing and a great story. Powerful verbs, evocative adjectives, and terrific dialogue promise your story will be a winner. Never use 10 limp and overused words, when 5 powerful and active ones do a better job. Use your Word Thesaurus to conjure up words that "speak" to your readers, and paint vivid mental pictures they will remember.
The Characters: Understand your characters. Get under their skin. Make them so real they jump off the page. When you feel connected to your characters, there is less chance of them wandering off into gratuitous situations. Tight writers hold the reins. Feed your reader snippets of back story in each chapter, so your characters grow richer and more compelling as the chapters flow past. Give each character their own unique "voice." Do this with words, mannerisms, and actions that come to be associated with each individual character. Never let your villain outshine your main POV (point of view) character.
The other VOICE: Yes, there IS another voice that is just as important - your own writing "voice." This is the way you string sentences, paragraphs and chapters together. Time, practice and experience come together at some point, and they create your writing voice or signature. It is the style you bring to each paragraph. The way you write a tense scene. Or a specific choice of words and actions. If readers like the "voice" you bring to your writing, you HAVE them by the throat!
*Writing Plots that GRAB Your Reader: Keep a tight focus on where your plot takes the characters. Before you start to write, have a good idea of the beginning, the middle, and the end of the story. When your plot is up-in-the-air, your characters tend to wander off into unnecessary back-roads. You must invent pointless situations to push them back into the main plot. The result is wordiness (waffling on), rather than tight writing. A good rule of thumb: If it does not move the story forward - CUT IT! *The Sub-plot: Focus on crafting a sub-plot that enriches your overall story. Don't allow it to overshadow the main plot. Secondary characters become more appealing when linked to an intriguing sub-plot. If you allow the sub-plot to wander too far a-field the story becomes bogged down. Tight writing is never long-winded.
Fiction Is Born When… # 1 - You have a story in your head that you are eager to write. # 2 - You have a bunch of characters in your head that tell you what to write. Either way can give you a tight and terrific story. But only IF you keep your focus on what moves things along.
If You Write Like #1: It would be a good idea to make a list of your characters, as well as a rough outline of the plot, and where it takes them: from chapter to chapter. Think about your main characters with great care. Do a family profile for each one. Even if you don't use all the details in the profile, you will have fun concocting it, and more importantly, feel much closer to them. They will really begin to "live" in your head. It will be easier to focus on them and their personalities -- fit them neatly into your plot. All this attention to detail focuses you, the writer, on what is important. Tight writing is always well focused.
If You Write Like #2: Here the task of focusing on tight writing is harder. Think of your story as a herd of cattle stampeding through your mind. You have a prime story, but the ideas need to be herded, branded, and the sickly ones culled. You need to ride high in the saddle and crack the whip. Focus on disciplining the raw elements rushing around inside your head into a tight and cohesive story. A stampede of words is never called tight writing.
Highlighting The Small Stuff: I wrote about the "biggies" first. Yet there are still many pitfalls that can reduce tight writing to a sea of rubble.
*Qualifiers and Adverbs: These are often one-and-the-same. Go through your writing with Word Find (Control +F) and prune these pests. Hordes of words like, just, very and some, etc., throw tight writing out the window. Look askance at all adverbs. If your verb is good and strong, an adverb is usually unnecessary. Occasional use is fine. Adverbs have become a habit in our speech, and this tendency is often repeated in our writing. Do you find yourself repeating a certain word more than once on every page? BE aware. Use Find/Replace to hunt it down. Replace with an alternative.
*Beautiful Descriptive Passages You Feel You Must Keep: We writers fall in love with what we write. We hate to snip a word. If you must have that lovely descriptive passage, or lengthy detail, be ruthless- cut it back by one third. Remember, needless details sink tight writing. Reiteration Is Not Always A Good Thing At the top of the page you write about Jamie falling off a ladder and hurting her knee. You gave adequate details. Near the bottom of the page, you repeat this, using slightly different words. Check your pages for this type of unnecessary repeat. Often, writers are unaware that they double-dip information. Reiteration is useful when you want the reader to remember something that happened several chapters back. Keep it short-and-sweet. Jog the reader'smemory,and then move on. Avoidable reiteration is the opposite of tight writing.
Finale: So there you have it. Tight writing from A to Z - or at least a good beginning. Tight will get you published. Tight will have you read. Tight will earn you royalties and accolades.
Tight writing will GRAB your reader by the throat!
HOOK KIDS on READING is where you'll find great books.
Or, BOOKS WORTH READING for adults.
BLOGS THAT ROCK are right there.
Pins for SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS and ADULTS - Yes Siree.
Interesting INTERVIEWS and MORE - right this way.
SELF-PUBLISHING is waiting for you.
Want to BE A GREAT PARENT? You got it!
TEACHER/CLASSROOM help is waiting. BOOK PROMO SECRETS are there too. BOYS ONLY is a must! Try SKYPE in the CLASSROOM Discover MANUSCRIPT CRITIQUES. For parents who care: HOME SCHOOL. KINDLE - iPOD etc - just for YOU! Enjoy COOL ART and COVERS Dive into PINTEREST PLUS!
Thanks to both these writers for honoring me and this blog. You are talented, supportive, and a really nice ladies!
“I am now extending the “Sunshine Award”to 5 more Bloggers.”
This prize is given to “bloggers who positively and creatively inspire others in the blogosphere.” As an award winner, here are some suggestions to follow for this Award.
1. Thank the person who gave you this award. 2. Answer the questions below about your favorite things. 3. Pass this award on to fabulous bloggers who bring sunshine into your life, link their blogs, and let them know you have awarded them
These are some of my favorite things: Favorite Color – pink Favorite Animal –Dogs or Cats (impossible to choose) Favorite Number –7 Favorite Drink – coffee Facebook or Twitter – Facebook Your Passions – Reading and writing Giving or getting presents – Giving Favorite Day –Sunday Favorite Flowers – Pink roses.
Here are the 4 blogs I have chosen to receive the next SUNSHINE BLOG AWARDS.
Many thanks to each of these bloggers for offering blogs full of great writing, and wonderful advice. Please go check out every Blog. Each has a unique way of getting their message cross.
Alison Sansone (Be There Bedtime Stories) http://www.betherebedtimestories.com/ May these awesome blogs continue to inspire their readers to healthier, better, and more imaginative writing and living.
And many thanks to Susan and Penelope for giving me this DOUBLE Honor.
And you deserve it twice. Congratulations. You might enjoy The Kid Lit Writers’ Alphabet, KrisKahrs' version of the writer’s journey in alphabet form at Pen and Ink http://thepenandinkblog.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-kidlit-writers-alphabet.html I am dithering between putting S, V, and Y first on my favorite dreams list. Blessings Sue
Just because I look sweet and harmless - don't be fooled! I'm one tough broad when it come to books and self- publishing. ROAR-R-R-R-R!
So, let's break it down into your reasons for going this route in the first place.
and
MY REBUTTAL
You are fed up with the rejection, and waiting months-and-months to discover your book is unworthy. And one bathroom papered in rejection slips is ENOUGH! Maybe there's a good reason WHY you keep getting those rejections
You think it will be a lot easier than snaring a traditional publisher. That noise is me rolling on the floor - hysterical !
You've read lots of books, and you can write a better story than most - you think! Would you ask a man with no plumbing experience or training to quell the flood in your basement? NO you say! Then WHY think someone (you) without proper skills and knowledge, can write and self publish a successful book?
Several publishers with nice looking websites are vying for your business. Oh dear! RUN to the closest Predators and Editors, and dive in to save your sanity and your money!
ARE YOU BEGINNING TO GET THE PICTURE?
Understand that the competition is fierce. Meet the competition. Every person in the world is absolutely sure they can write a best seller. Most have no talent and no clue - but that doesn't stop them from writing and self-publishing and opus or two. If you want your book to rise like the cream in the proverbial milk jug, you have to master 4x things.
FIRST - Master the craft of writing well. This takes time - patience - networking among published writers - picking brains - lots of rewriting, and input from a really dedicated critique group.
SECOND - Editing - You can only do so much yourself. When you and your crit group feel it is as polished as you can make it, that is the time to shell out the bucks needed, and have a qualified person EDIT IT.
THIRD - Learn the tricks of the self-publishing game - or DIE a lingering death! Take the time to research and mine the copious information available on many writing and self publishing lists. Ask questions, delve deep - especially if you want to print in paper as well as on Kindle, Nook etc. Ask those you know who they used, and who is the best in the field of self- publishing. Research printers, paper, and prices, prices, prices! This is BUYER BEWARE territory. No use crying later, if you didn't do your homework BEFORE you chose that !@#$ publisher, or stumbled through the process yourself, ill- equipped and in a funk!
FORTH - the art of promotion. Remember one thing. Your book will eventually be finished, edited and published. BUT - promotion never ends! It means searching for clubs, organizations, blogs, groups, bookstores, reviewers, interviewers, newspapers, schools, niche markets etc. These and MORE, are places where readers who might buy your book hang out. Become a literary bloodhound. Develop a NOSE for tracking down potential customer sites. Make a name for yourself and your book in our present day Social Networking Jungle - + create a SUPER bog.
Learn how to write a HOT and succinct Press Release. Discover the gentle art of twisting arms and cajoling favors. Create cute bookmarks and business cards that spread the word - YOU ARE AN AUTHOR! Track down the niche markets your book fits and be relentless. Send them that perfect Press Release. Follow up with a phone call. Pay a visit. Like a great car salesman - never take NO for an answer. Bribe them with freebies, your valuable time, or a writing competition might work - whatever it takes. If you have them, conscript friends and relatives. E-mail them cute promos for your book and where it can be purchased. Ask them to send it to friends, and every Social Network they are on. Think out of the box! Virtual Book Tours, author interviews, and ordinary blog promotion has become a big YAWN! And never forget your pages and profile on Kindle, Nook, and elsewhere. UPDATE often.
WOW! Are you out of breath reading this? I am, just writing it all. Am I doing all this stuff for "The Revenge of Thelma Hill," the ghost mystery I self-published, with help and cover art from Agy Wilson?
Hell no! Are you out of your mind. I'm telling you how it SHOULD be done if you were 20 years younger, and 30 pounds lighter than me. Blimey, mate, I have palpitations just thinking about all this - and I only hit the high points!
********************
If you enjoyed this,
Next week we'll dabble in the waters of how to . . .
Well put Margot. Great post. And you have named all the reasons we won't self publish. Actually as an experiment, Lupe self published a book on Amazon called The Wooden Men. We'd all heard they hype abput how wonderful and easy it was. Price of the book? 99 cents.I believe Lupe has not yet made enough money to buy a taco at Taco Bell.
Margot, I love this post! You've covered such important material, material, I might add, gleaned from years of experience. Beyond valuable! Thanks so much for the great advice.
Ladies, my thanks for your comments and insights. **Pen and Ink - I self published The Revenge of Thelma Hill - mentioned in this article. It is a ghost mystery for young teens, and I am very happy with the Kindle results.
Margot's FREE 13x BOOK CATALOG: http://tinyurl.com/d8ppylg
My writing is a habit I can't kick - an addiction if you will. To not write is unthinkable! Over the years my best stories came to me in the middle of the night. They had me creeping into the bathroom to write them down before they became lost, along with my other dreams.
Some flowed into my computer as smooth and easy as honey on hot toast. Others were stubborn, difficult, or just plain antsy. I had to cajole, threaten and bribe the characters to stick with the program - MY program. I won some and I last some. Yet however the story finally ended, I fell in love with it. I even admit that the characters sometimes had better plot ideas than I. Shush. . . don't spread that around, mates.
I wrote each story with the idea of HOOKING kids on reading. Teach a child to love books at an early age, and you make them into lifelong readers. And the way to do that is to read them books that have giggles, fun, adventure, love, and that unique WOW factor that makes them into re-readable favorites.
I love each book I wrote, and I am hoping to make converts out of YOU!
A coming of age adventureset in the Aussie Outback.
Blimey, whoda thunk that a sulfur crested cockatoo named Claude could become such a great character, along with a young aboriginal boy called Taconi, + a Man Ceremony, a bunch of witchetty grubs, and a freaked out emu.
THE SEQUEL
coming soon
Featuring the grandchildren of Taconi and the Boss, in a fight to survive an outback walkabout, a crazed Medicine Man, and sibling rivalry that begins with a lie and expands to threaten friendship and family. .
A ghost with a determination to make her killer pay, has searched forty years for help. Frannie James is her last chance. The ghost, and her giant arachnid "familiar," are hard to resist. Add a twin brother, a missing Mom, a few e-mails, and a handy frying pan. Killer is caught!
.
If these tantalizing story tit-bits don't whet your reading appetite. . .
Penelope Anne Cole, after various positions in HR and Teaching, now writes and review children's books. Her reviews and book news can be found HERE. One of her special joys is reading to children, and encouraging them to read on their own and love literature. Penelope lives in Silicon Valley, California, with her family and their rescued cats and dogs. She enjoys dog walking, reading, gardening, church activities, singing in choir, and watching select TV shows: drama, comedy, romance, crime solving, and happy-ending movies.
Although she has written throughout her life, "Magical Matthew" is her first published children's book. It celebrates the magic of childhood and the milestone of attaining "double digits."
MY REVIEW
Magical Matthew is a delightfully told story about a young boy with a unique ability. When Matthew discovers he can magically fix what is broken, he sets out to fix things that need fixing. Yet his magic can only fix things - sadly, not his best friend, Lily. With Grandma and Lily as allies, Matthew follows good family values. This makes even his trickiest problems come out right. The story also shows that confiding in a trusted adult is a good thing. Matthew is such a likeable little boy, that kids everywhere will root for him to succeed. A surprise at the end makes it very likely there will be an equally enjoyable sequel coming soon.
Kevin Collier's lively and colorful illustrations are the perfect compliment to Cole's magical theme.
I recommend this picture book for the fun read, but also for the gentle way it nudges children down the path of doing the right thing.
I am sure YOUR copy of Magical Matthew will soon become dog-eared with many readings.
Great review Margot. Thanks for sharing Penelope's new book. I too have reviewed magical Matthew. I wish her much success with her new series of magical books.
Books for inclusion: Picture book, young adult - and all ages in-between!
I am fairly new to Goodreads, yet I do have a presence + followers and friends. As well as my own page of books there, I began a NEW group called GoodreadsHOOK Kids on Reading. Being fairly new to Goodreads, I have found it tricky navigating around and finding things. So I will be grateful for any help from old hands.
HOOK Kids on Reading is a PRIVATE LIST where members need to be approved before joining. This so our target audience, teachers, parents, school librarians, and grandparents etc, get to choose from books that are well written, and have received great reviews.
The best of the best! I have already invited a few authors who have written terrific books for kids and teens.
Email me at mfinke@frontier.com if you would like to chat further about joining this quality book recommendation list.
A list of great book properties:
*Fun to read. *Kid friendly. *An adventure. *A mystery. *Educational details that are cool to learn. *Make ecology and being "green" a great thing. *Prove helpful in a kid friendly way. *HOOK readers with a WOW factor. *Tempt reluctant readers to keep reading. * NOTE: Traditional or self- published makes no difference. It is the aim of HOOK Kids on Reading to offer a selection of wonderful books - no matter who published them.
To JOIN and Include your BOOKS:
*GOOD REVIEWS that reassure parents, teachers, etc *Add covers only, a short description + a link where your book can be purchased. *A Book Trailer or a Video reading can also be added - see list of options on the top right. *To add your book, go to GROUP HOME and then click "PICTURES." See how I added my cover, and what I wrote will give you an idea. *"Pictures" offers a simple way for people to find information, and choose great books for kids. The "Bookshelf" section is more for reading, review and comments.
The GOAL:
If the books we list show a consistent high quality, our target buyers and readers will return time-after-time. Let these books show what a fun and fascinating Magic Carpet Ride wonderful books can take you on. All aboard!!
Do you have one or more a children's books that received great reviews? If so, please consider adding them to "Goodreads Hook Kids on Reading" - where the books listed are perfect for the children in all our lives.
If you have read Natasha Yim's other wonderful books you will understand why I call this new epic a "treat."
I am very happy to be a part of the Book Tour that introduces this new addition to many readers book shelves.
Natasha Yim is a children’s book author, freelance writer, and playwright. She is the author of three picture books: Otto’s Rainy Day (Charlesbridge Publishing, 2000), which was a Kids' Pick of the Lists selection, Cixi, The Dragon Empress (Goosebottom Books, 2011), and the just released Sacajawea of the Shoshone (Goosebottom Books, 2012), the biography of the Shoshone teenager who traveled the American West with Lewis and Clark. Sacajawea of the Shoshone is an addition to Goosebottom Books’ award-winning first series, The Thinking Girl’s Treasury of Real Princesses.
Natasha has also published articles in Highlights for Children, Appleseeds, Faces, Vibrant Life, Mendocino Arts and other local and regional magazines, and her ten-minute plays have been performed at Mendocino Community College in Ukiah, Pegasus Theatre in Guerneville, Secret Rose Theatre in Los Angeles, and at the Short and Sweet Ten Minute Theatre Festivals in Sydney and Brisbane, Australia.
Natasha’s next picture book Goldy Luck and The Three Pandas will be released by Charlesbridge Publishing in January 2014.
*****************
Treat #2
Inside Natasha Yim . . .
*Has writing been a lifelong passion, or an interest that recently surprised you?
I've wanted to be a writer since I was about 11, so I can say that writing's pretty much been a lifelong passion for me. I received a creative writing assignment in my 7th grade English class and I was hooked! I used to journal a lot as a teen and I'd keep notebooks where I wrote poetry and short stories.
*Have you always been interested in American Indian history?
I have a little Native American ancestry in me and my ancestor has a really interesting story. I'm not sure how much of it is true and how much of it has been romanticized over the years, but the story I've grown up with is that my great-great-great grandfather, Chin Chun Hock, went to America to seek his fortune leaving Wife #1 in China. He eventually settled in Seattle and started a very successful merchandizing business. He is now known as the first Chinese settler in Seattle and his business, the Wa Chong Company, is frequently credited as the business that started Seattle's Chinatown. During his time here, he met and married a Native American woman who was the daughter of a chief. Family lore states she was one of the daughter of Chief Seattle and his second wife. However, my sister made some inquiries to the Duwamish tribe and the tribe disputes this saying that all his children were accounted for and they don't have any records of any of them having married a Chinese man. In spite of this historical discrepancy, Chun Hock did have a Native American wife with whom he had 3 sons (I actually have a photograph of her and 2 of her boys as children). Also according to family lore, Wife #1, who was childless, heard about this, traveled all the way to America unchaperoned, quite a feat for a Chinese woman of the time, kidnapped the three sons and ran back to China with them. Eventually, Chun Hock returned to China and the Native American woman followed suit in search of her sons. It is believed she died in China. You can imagine, this story has always intrigued my writer sensibilities, and it's still a story I very much want to tell one day either in fiction or non-fiction form, so I did grow up with a fascination for Native American history and culture, although at the time it was limited to my great-great-great grandmother's particular history. Until I was an adult, we didn't even have any idea what tribe she was from.
*How did you find your publisher?
The publisher, Goosebottom Books (www.goosebottombooks.com ) is a small, independent press that started in 2010 with their first series The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses featuring 6 amazing women in history. The second series, The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Dastardly Dames featured powerful women in history with dastardly reputations. All six books in the first series were written by the publisher Shirin Bridges, but for the second series, the publisher and editor Amy Novesky put out a call for submissions for 1,000 word writing samples. I sent mine in and was one of 6 writers selected to write one of the books in the Dastardly Dames series. Cixi, The Dragon Empress was released in Oct. 2011. Both series received critical acclaim and the Princesses series was awarded the IPPY silver medal for best multi-cultural, juvenile non-fiction. So when Goosebottom Books decided to add a Native American and an African woman to the mix of historical women and asked if I would write one of them, I jumped at the chance. I chose to write about the Native American woman because of my ancestry and I suggested Sacajawea because of my fascination with her story.
*Do you find research fun and interesting, and how deep did you have to delve for this book?
Research can be a lot of fun and I always find very interesting facts about my subjects. For me, there's a slight bit of groaning when I first begin because research can also be daunting and overwhelming, particularly when I find a wealth of information and I'm trying to funnel it down to 2,000 words for a children's story. With Sacajawea, there was such a lot of neat historical and cultural information that it was quite difficult at times deciding what should go in the book, in the sidebar, or left out completely.
I found that not much of Sacajawea's story was told in adult books. She usually gets a mention in books about Lewis and Clark, but there were quite a few books written about her in the juvenile section of the library. I read about 5 or 6 books about her and perused a ton of websites. Sacajawea's story has always appealed to me because it's such a great adventure story and to travel all that way with Lewis and Clark, through the rugged American West, with a baby in tow just showed what a remarkable woman she was. While doing the research on her, I discovered that she was kidnapped from her Shoshone tribe by Hidatsa warriors at the age of 11 or 12 and taken 500 miles away to the Hidatsa village along the banks of the Missouri River. The Hidatsa and Shoshone had vastly different lifestyles, languages, culture and foods. Not only did Sacajawea have to adapt to this new environment but what she learned from both tribes played a big part in her adventure later on. I read some books on Hidatsa and Shosone culture and stories and found it totally fascinating.
*Do you ever plan to write for an adult audience?
At one time in my writing career, I thought I might want to write an adult book some day. But lately, I've discovered that I actually have NO interest in writing for adults. I am moving from picture book projects to middle grade and young adults though and I enjoy the freedom this gives me because you are less restricted by language and word count perimeters. So, I'm moving towards an older audience but if a picture book idea grabs me, I'll still write it. I currently also have a picture book project in the works.
*Are your family supportive of your writing – or mainly uninterested?
They are very supportive. I have 3 kids and my oldest daughter is often one of my first readers. She'll give me her pre-teen perspective on things and I'll brainstorm ideas with her sometimes, particularly when I'm stuck on something. She's also helped me set up books at book events and been part of the audience at my book launches and readings. My husband supports me by letting me go to writer's conferences and retreats where I can not only learn my craft and network, but rejuvenate myself. However, I think he's only just now beginning to understand that I'm not going to bring in the kind of income JK Rowling does and to understand what a lot of hard work it all is to not only create books that are published but what it takes to market and promote them as well.
Both my daughters are very interested in writing stories and my middle child has declared that she wants to be a writer when she grows up, so I'm very proud of the fact that through seeing my creative process and through my reading to them a ton when they were little, it has inspired their own love of writing.
*Are you in a critique group, and if so, did their feedback prove helpful?
Yes, I'm in my second critique group. The first one I was in lasted for 8 years then the members went their separate ways. This current group is a small one with only 4 members, but they're all such wonderful writers and their feedback is always insightful and very helpful. It's also a great place to go for camaraderie and support. We'll sometimes go to writing conferences or writing retreats together, and we celebrate each other's successes. We're all so busy though that we don't meet terribly often, maybe once every six weeks. My last group met every two weeks but I think every 6 weeks seem to work for us at the moment. I think every writer should have a critique group. Getting feedback from others about your work is invaluable. There are often things you don't pick up about pacing, language, characterizations, plot holes etc. about your own writing. If your writing group can spot writing errors, so can your readers.
*There are others in this series, right? – do tell us about them.
Yes, Sacajawea is a new addition to Goosebottom Book's first series, The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses. The series features women, real-life princesses, who have attained amazing achievements in spite of incredible odds and made their mark on history. The princesses are: Hatshepsut of India, Sorghatani of Mongolia (the mother of Kublai Khan), Isabella of Castille,Nur Jahan of India,Artemisia of Caria, Qutlugh Terkan Khatoun of Kirman, and now Sacajawea. These women defied the cultural and gender biases of their times to accomplish extraordinary feats (Artemisia became an admiral and led a navy into war, Nur Jahan rode an elephant into battle, Hatshepsut became the first female pharoah). They're stories of empowerment for girls, and they span across different times, countries, and cultures, and every book has sidebars that include "What She Ate", "What She Wore", and "Where She Lived" which gives readers some historical context and a glimpse into the lifestyles of the time period in which these women lived.
*How can people buy your books – paper, Kindle, ebook or all three?
The book is in hardcover and can be purchased at your local bookstore, from the publisher's website: www.goosebottombooks.com, the distributor's website: www.ipgbook.com, from Amazon.com, Barnes & Nobles.com, and on my website: www.natashayim.com.
*What do you think a book's plot and characters must have to GRAB the red hot interest of this teckie minded younger generation – even nonfiction needs to HOOK the reader.
Compelling characters that your readers can relate to. Sometimes with non-fiction, it's easy to get bogged down with the details and historical facts. In Sacajawea's case, there were so many little interesting tidbits about her and the Lewis and Clark expedition (some of these ended in the sidebars), and in my last book Cixi, The Dragon Empress, the political climate and intrigues of Cixi's day really informed how she responded to situations as a ruler and a person. It's tempting to put all this in. My editor kept asking me one key phrase, "What is her story?" Behind the factual and historical data is the story of how a woman from a modest upbringing, entered the Forbidden City, bore the emperor's only son, and became the most powerful person in China, the first time a woman had accomplished this in 1,000 years. It's the story of how a young Native American girl faced and survived the most traumatic event of her life—being kidnapped by an enemy tribe—to be taken on the adventure of a lifetime and become the most famous woman in American history. How must Cixi have felt to first see the opulence of the Forbidden City, and for Sacajawea to be reunited with her brother and her Shoshone tribe again after six years? What must Cixi have thought when she saw her beloved Summer Palace lying in ruins after the foreign powers invaded Peking, or Sacajawea when she finally saw the pounding waves of the Pacific Ocean? Of course, I didn't have first hand knowledge of this, and the challenge was trying to make these incidents visual or personal enough so kids can sense the horror, awe, anger, excitement of these women's experiences. There's a universality to these emotions. The fun part of writing these books was making history and the lives of these women come alive.
*Tell my readers something about yourself that you have never shared before. Funny or shocking, they lap it all up, mate.
I've always had this deathly fear of tidal waves. I've never seen a tidal wave in person or even heard much about them. I'm not sure where the fear came from, but I used to be haunted by recurring dreams of tidal waves. In the dream, I'm on the open top deck of a cruise ship. Suddenly, the sea gets rough, tosses the ship about, and this huge wave forms and towers over us putting everything in shadow. I usually wake up as the wave is about to crash down on the ship, my heart in my throat and a gripping panic pulsating through my body. When the 2004 Tsunami hit South East Asia, that's when I actually first saw the devastation of a real-life tidal wave. I was appalled and horrified by the destruction I saw in the news footage, but yet also strangely fascinated.
Halloween is almost upon us. . . So, light the candles, draw the curtains, and be
prepared for chains rattling and the occasional scream.
YIKES!
Are you READY?
Are you SAFE?
Are you AFRAID?
Are you with someone you TRUST?
I HOPE SO . . . for your sake!
BECAUSE The ghost of Thelma Hill is going to take you on a scary, creepy, fun ride down into where she now lives - no broom needed!
The Revenge of Thelma Hill is the perfect Halloween book for YOU to read.
A missing Mom, a ghost in dire need, an arachnid that guards the basement, and a killer who must pay! Can Frannie and her twin brother trap Thelma's killer, without joining her in the basement – permanently? Goose-bumps on every page.
Today it my pleasure to introduce an intriguing YA book titled,
"Save the Lemmings"
Nothing "fishy" about this story - promise!
Written by that talented and well published author of books for children,
Kai Strand
Kai Strand writes fiction for middle grade and young adult readers. Her debut novel, The Weaver, was a finalist in the 2012 EPIC eBook Awards. The Wishing Well: Another Weaver Tale is set in the same storytelling village as The Weaver. She is a (very lucky) wife, and the mother of four amazing kids. The most common sound in her household is laughter. The second most common is, "Do your dishes!" She and her family hike, geocache, and canoe in beautiful Central Oregon, where they call home.
I can appreciate her love of Oregon, because apart from loving Kai's books and the way she writes them, I also live in Oregon and love it.
About SAVE THE LEMMINGS:
8th grade inventor, Natalie Isabelle Cailean Edwards is the N.I.C.E. girl who finishes last with the kids in school. Sappy inspirational phrases and monochromatic outfits have all but her best friends wrinkling their nose at her. When Natalie’s invention, the Texty-Talky, goes nationwide, she becomes an overnight sensation. Suddenly her days consist of photo shoots and interviews with little time left for her friends. A local reporter shatters her good-girl image by reporting a graffiti incident, and the media launches into a smear campaign. It is so bad, even her friends start to believe the stories. Will Natalie be able to overcome the lies being printed about her? And will she SAVE THE LEMMINGS?
*Did you ever feel like a Lemming when you were a teen?
I think if you had asked me then, I would have answered no. But when I look back on my middle and high school years I think I spent way too much time worrying about blending in, fitting in - NOT standing out in a crowd. If I had to do it over again (God forbid!) that is what I'd want to do differently. I wouldn't want to worry so much what other kids thought. I'd spend more time doing what I enjoy - even if it wasn't considered cool.
*What tempted you to write a YA WITH Lemmings in the title?
Two ideas melded together to make this book. 1) I wanted a main character who did something extraordinary and who was first revered by the media as a whiz kid, an example, a hero, but then they twisted that into something ugly in their never ending quest for a bigger and better headline. Frankly, I think this happens WAY too much in today's society and I feel that we (as the media consumers) fuel it by eating these gossipy stories and ridiculous 'reality' t.v. shows up. 2) I wanted the popular saying of 'being a lemming' to play a part. As I was drafting the book, I did a little research on lemmings and learned that the common assumption that lemmings blindly follow each other off cliffs in hordes was false, and that a huge company facilitated the lie back in the 50's with a documentary they produced. CRAZY! That fed into my theme even better than I'd ever expected. It is amazing the things we will just blindly believe!
*Did you need to do a lot of research about 8thgraders + the media?
The 8th grader part was pretty easy. I have four kids. My youngest is just now entering 8th grade, but over the last six years I can safely say I've known an 8th grader or two. I did read a lot of articles and watch a lot of news and tabloid shows to see how the media would report a story. I took particular interest in ongoing stories so that I could see how they treated the subject of the story as it unfolded.
*Do you ever plan to write for an adult audience?
I do have a couple of story lines that are adult focused, but I don't have any immediate plans to write them. I really enjoy writing for children, and consider myself so lucky that I am writing shorts for younger kids (www.knowonder.com), novels and the occasional short in middle grade and young adult. Each audience has it's specific needs in an appropriate story, which keeps my brain busy enough sorting it out.
*Are your family supportive of your writing – or mainly uninterested?
My family is AWESOME! My husband is my go to guy for when I have a plot issue I can't quite figure out. My kids will sit (and have!) for hours while I read my stories aloud to them. They answer questions I pose, they ask questions or offer input that is helpful. But the single most important thing they do is ask for more! "Have you finished the second book in the series yet?" or "Have you worked on that friendship story lately?" Recently my son asked if I could reread one of my longer novels. My first thought was that I didn't have the time, but then I realized that too soon he'll be grown and gone, and I won't have him to read to. So I worked it in. Each evening, the family sat down in the living room and I read several chapters. Really, a writer can't ask for a more supportive family than I have!
*Are you in a critique group, and if so, did their feedback prove helpful?
I've been a long time member of an online critique group. I love them. They offer great input to the development of my story and they provide me a safe place to whine. Seriously, they are so good for my mental health!
*Are you planning to write more books with this Lemming theme – a series maybe?
I've always intended SAVE THE LEMMINGS to be a stand alone. The tween novels I have published with Guardian Angel Publishing, The Weaver and The Wishing Well: Another Weaver Tale, are stand alone stories set in the same storytelling village. My upcoming young adult novel, King of Bad, is the first in a series.
*What do you think a book's plot and characters must have to GRAB the red hot interest of this teckie minded younger generation.
That is a great question. Good pacing is critical for keeping their attention. No saggy middles or else they'll switch their reader over to a game of hangman! Also, relate-ability. The kids must be able to relate with the issue the characters are dealing with. You can wrap it in a science fiction setting on Venus, but those aliens better be having a personality conflict with the head cheerleader or have an alcoholic parent or maybe the younger alien ripped his pants at school. But something has to be recognizable to your reader.
*Do you plan to publish a paper version later, or are you a die-hard ebook fan?
*Tell my readers something about yourself that you have never shared before. Funny or shocking, they lap it all up, mate.
I guess this is a good time to admit that I can relate to Natalie, the main character in Save the Lemmings, a little too well. I was such a prim and proper priss growing up, and my sister always teased me about it. She could - and did - belch the alphabet just to see me collapse into a pool of quivers. I couldn't handle anything that wasn't proper or that was outside the rules. I've loosened up a bit since, thank goodness.
Thanks for letting me visit, Margot!
It is absolutely my pleasure, Kai. And I so envy you the interest your kids have in your writing.
To find out more about Kai’s books, download companion documents, find links to her published short stories and discover all the places to find Kai both virtually and in person, visit her website: www.kaistrand.com. She loves to hear from readers, so feel free to send her an email or visit her facebook page, Kai Strand, Author.
The following piece was sent to me by my cousin in Australia.
It has NOTHING to do with writing for children or books for children
UNLESS . . .
the Bible, children, and the Internet are somehow linked.
I just think it's a cool, fun, and really clever way to HOOK technology to a Bible story.
In the beginning. . .
In ancient Israel, it came to pass that a trader by the name of Abraham Com did take unto himself, a young wife by the name of Dot. And Dot Com was a comely woman, broad of shoulder and long of leg. Indeed, she was often called Amazon Dot Com.
And she said unto Abraham, her husband, “why dost thou travel so far from town to town with thy goods when thou canst trade ...without ever leaving thy tent?”
And Abraham did look at her as though she were several saddle bags short of a camel load, but simply said, “How dear?” And Dot replied, “I will place drums in all towns and drums in between to send messages saying what you have for sale, and they will reply telling you who hath the best price. And the sale can be made on the drums and the delivery made using Uriah’s Pony Stable (UPS).” Abraham thought long and decided he would let Dot have her way with the drums. And the drums rang out and were an immediate success. Abraham sold all the goods he had at the top price, without ever having to move from his tent.
This Urban Faerie Tale is a twist on the classic ‘Hero’s Journey,’ made relevant for contemporary readers due to its metaphysical slant. Seth Bauman, the protagonist, has had a tough childhood in L.A.’s Silver Lake neighborhood. The unanswered questions surrounding his mother’s departure soon after his birth have left him feeling abandoned. But the truth that will set him free, and the forgiveness he must find within himself, can only be unearthed in a whimsical realm known as ‘The Interior.’ It is the boatman at the bottom of the L.A. Wash, quite possibly a homeless man who has befriended Seth, who will lead him ‘through the rabbit hole.’
Though Seth’s reality is harsh, the world into which he escapes is at turns whimsical, absurd, poetic, and sublime. It is here that he will learn the skills he needs to cope, and return to Silver Lake with the means of his family’s escape toward a better life. The only question is- is the Interior an alternate realm worth saving, or just
3 Comments on The Nameless Prince - YA Urban Fantasy., last added: 6/20/2012
I admit, I'd couldn't resist clicking over when you tempted me with the hunky author taunt, but I'm glad I did. The book sounds intriguing. Good luck with it Dominick, and thanks for bringing us the interview, Margot.
Guardian Angel Publishing - Academic Wings Follow the water droplets in their journey from the clouds to the earth and back to the clouds again. Written in a lyrical style, the book takes a new angle on the water cycle by showing the feelings it evokes in people.
About the author: Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. and has authored over a dozen books, some of which have won awards. Her stories, reviews, interviews and articles have appeared on numerous publications such as The Writer, Writer’s Journal, Multicultural Review, and Bloomsbury Review, among many others. Visit her Website and get the first two lessons of her popular Walking on a Rainbow Picture Book Workshop FREE!
This author knows a thing or two about writing books that are fun, educational, and also HOOK a child's interest. The illustrations by Alex Morris marry perfectly with Mayra's words. Read this to your child - you will both learn that water is not all wet.
So, now for the inquisition . . . my questions and Mayra's answers:
Terrific interview, Ladies. I particularly like what you've said about needing a child's sensibilities as an author. It makes so much sense with both fiction and non-fiction. Also, it is refreshing to see a good non-fiction book come to life. Great illustrations as well!
Thanks for this fun interview Margot...Mayra's book looks so fun...I love the weather! Mayra, I love what you said about kids not caring so much about the original ideas...I tend to think everything is new to you when you are a kid! Looking forward to your rainbow course this summer!
You certainly do deserve time for your own books! You are so good about promoting other books and have done a great job this past week. You have so many wonderful books, and my grandkids have read most of them (been read to them actually) and enjoyed them!
I just love your humor! Just when we think our hard work is done with the published book, marketing begins. It's indeed exhausting, but it's great making terrific friendships along the way!
Awesome post Margot. It always amazes me that people think writing is all they have to do. This is not Field of Dreams. If you write it they will not come automatically :0)Work, Work, Work is what it takes. Being an author is not for the faint of heart!
Aileen Stewart Author of Fern Valley-A Collection of Short Stories www.funwithaileen.com
Great post. I am tired just reading what all we have to do to promote our books. But first, I have to get a book published. But I am trying and look forward to promoting.
I know the feeling, Janet. When I think of what I SHOULD do to promote my books, and what I am "able" to do to promote them, I wish I were 30 years younger and 30 pounds lighter. Of course getting that first book on the shelves is TOP priority. Good luck with that. I am rooting for you.
BOOKS for KIDS - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
7x Passionate Authors from Guardian Angel Publishing ( affectionately known as GAP ) STILL Blogging 'till their Fingers Drop Off for Children's Book Week May 7th - 13th, 2012 (See list of other GAP bloggers below) .
Wow, this post is chock full of resources! I'm sending the url to a new children's writer I know. Why recreate the wheel when you've so expertly crafted it already, right?
Margot, thank you for taking the time to list out all these resources. I think mentoring has to be multifaceted as you suggest. I am also thrilled to have been selected for this years Nevada SCBWWI mentor program and know I shall get a lot out of this. I have also used a freelance editor who has mentored me in many ways. Super post worth bookmarking.
Just like the comment above I'm sending this post to my own children's picture book critique group. Thanks so much for all your wonderful links and this week of helpful posts. They have been a boon for many struggling writers. :)
I have been a 'lurker' following your blog for a while. Thanks for all your tips and advice so far. Like others, I will be forwarding on these links to other writer friends, including your site too!!
7x Passionate Authors from Guardian Angel Publishing ( affectionately known as GAP ) STILL Blogging 'till their Fingers Wear Out for Children's Book Week May 7th - 13th, 2012 (See list of other GAP bloggers below) .
Excellent post! I liked the fishing analogy. Thanks for sharing. Not sure if this is where I'm supposed to comment to be entered for the drawing. If so, please put my name in the hat. Ev Christensen evelyn(dot)christensen(at)gmail(dot)com
Thank you for the great suggestions for children's writing. I liked the fun fishing theme and your great sense of humor. Thank you for sharing with us!
You know, Donna, I have been thinking about doing that. All I need is the time to set it up properly. My sense of humor has helped me survive some pretty tight spots. I think humor eases a lit of life's problems.
Wound you write an intro for me?
BOOKS for KIDS - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
But she is legit: unlike me, she still lives Down-under!
Ann is one of the original members of OPUS, the critique group I founded years ago. All the members are well published now, but we still keep in touch, and cheer each on to ever greater heights. This time it is our turn to cheer Ann.
BIO:
Ann Harth, an award winning children’s writer, studied psychology in New York before moving to Australia to travel, build a home and raise children. Before becoming a full time writer and tutor, she waited tables, bar-tended, picked strawberries and punched keys on various tills. She also spent many years working with children with special needs which is where some of the ideas for her stories originated.
As a writer of various genres, Ann has been published internationally. Her fiction and non-fiction children’s books are available in Australia, the USA and the UK. She has also written over 120 short stories for various magazines and educational programs
As a dual citizen of Australia and the US with over 20 years’ residency in each, Ann is comfortable writing for the international community. Her background and education supply her with an endless supply of characters, experiences and settings on which to draw.
When Ann isn’t writing or looking after their land and animals, she and her family are searching for new and remote places to camp, hike and explore. From her home in northern Australia, she works as a freelance writer, ghost writer, manuscript assessor and writing tutor. She liv
1 Comments on "DON'T" - a Picture Book Kids Will LOVE!, last added: 3/25/2012
It is my great pleasure to welcome fellow G.A.P. author, and writing companion in arms,
KATHY STEMKE
Let's give the 4th day of her Book Tour a rousing reception
TROUBLE ON EARTH DAY!
Her charming picture book, which doubles as an activity book, teaches kids how to rethink, reuse and recycle our Earth’s precious resources. Shelby squirrel, the main character, after winning an Earth Day poster contest finds things around the house to re-purpose. When she meets a bluebird in distress on Earth Day, she comes to the rescue. With Earth Day drawing near, join me in celebrating our beautiful Earth with…..
"Trouble on Earth Day
8 Comments on Squirrels That Celebrate EARTH DAY!, last added: 3/29/2012
A selection of Guardian Angel Publishing authors will blog about all aspects of writing books for children - Beginning with that first idea . . . to HOT off the press!
The third in this series is: TALON - Flight for Life
BIO:
Gigi Sedlmayer was born in Germany, married an Australian/German in 1967, and after a while they moved to New Zealand. Gigi started a handcraft business. As a specialty, she made colorful parrots which sold by the thousands. In 1988 they decided to adopt from Fiji, and the year after they became the adoptive parents of Indian twin girls.
The family lived in New Zealand for 18 years, and then they decided to move to the Australian Gold Coast. Two years later Gigi was diagnosed with cancer. After operations and radiation, she withdrew, thinking she would soon be dead. But her two little girls gave her the courage and strength to keep going. And finding herself still alive after two years, Gigi thought, 'Get a grip on yourself and do something good with your life'
Gigi had always loved writing short stories about animals. She wrote about what she wanted to do and what she wanted to be. Since she couldn’t go to work anymore, having damage from the radiation and lots of pain, her husband taught her how to use a computer. Writing many short stories, Gigi entered them in competitions and often got very good reports back. This gave her the confidence to go on writing. One day the idea for the TALON series came to her, and so in the next several years she brought the story and the characters to life.
*You have a fascinating history Gigi. So interesting to read about. Now for the fun stuff - answers to the questions I asked.
NOTE: Be ready folks, for a heartfelt message of courage, and triumph over terrible odds.
*What prompted you to write for children?
I love animals, particular horses, birds and tigers, also all the Australian animals, Koala, Kangaroo,
10 Comments on TALON Flies Again!, last added: 4/27/2012
This is an astonishing and beautiful series, Gigi. You should feel very proud of your accomplishment, and your enthusiasm for writing many more stories of inspiration. Best wishes for your continuing success.
Thanks you, Margot, for sharing another wonderful author and excellents books for young readers and adults!
Jo Marshall Twig Stories www.facebook.com/twigstories
Oh Margot, i am sitting here reading the comments and i am crying. Yes, i do. Never had i such wonderful encouraging comments before. Thank you so very much for posting my interview so people can read it, see it and hopefully will buy my books.
I think i will tell you as well, that i do have the frist book sighing soon, with all three books. i hope it will be very good as well and that i will sell all of them. I wish you could come as well. You are such an inspiration to me as well.
That's wonderful news Gigi. Hope you sell a million copies. Writers and readers who take the time to comment are always kind. Children's writers especially so.
BOOKS for KIDS - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
I am one of the Guardian Angel Publishing Authors ( affectionately known as GAP ) We are Blogging ALL 7 days of Children's Book Week (See list of other GAP bloggers below)
from May 7th - 13th, 2012
Every day this week,
7x GAP authors will BLOG about their passion: READING, WRITING, PUBLISHING or PROMOTINGetc
Books for Children
GAP authors also offer 2x FREE GIFTS you can WIN ( entry form at the end of this post )
A cool tote bag of books by GAP
18 Comments on CHILDREN'S BOOK WEEK - With GAP Author Margot Finke, last added: 5/7/2012
Absolutely terrific post on the benefits of Skype author visits! It's a true win-win combo for authors and schools. Thanks for joining in on the Children's Book Week fun!
This is a great idea for authors and schools. There is so much technology available these days, it would be great to see schools take advantage, particularly if it promotes reading.
Thanks Donna and Carrie. Hope you both signed up for a chance to win one of our two terrific FREE gifts - tote bag of author books or a free PB critique.
I am the one giving the free PB crit.
BOOKS for Kids - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
Oh, you've managed to erase all the excuses this shy author has used for not taking the Skype step. You make it sound so easy. Perhaps I need to get a camera for my laptop :D
Thanks for the great post, Margot! I still haven't done any skype visits--I think they make me nervous but you're right. I should embrace this new technology!
Margot, I think more schools are getting with the idea of having real live authors visit their school via skype. I hope that this simple transition of technology will be afforded by all schools. This post was a great read. I hope to have you critique a work of mine very soon. Meanwhile, I'd like to have you visit my blog as I discuss my early learner's literacy program: http://mylmnopreadstokids.blogspot.com
Thank you for all the wealth of information you always share. I can't wait to do a Skype visit! It's fun doing this blog hop with you! Happy Children's Book Week!
Thanks for sharing all this good info on Skype visits. I hope to one day be among those authors doing them. I am book marking this page for future use. I will also face book it and tweet about it.
You and Kai both, mate. It is fun, just like inperson visits. Kids love technology, and it is a way to take your books to schools and places you would never visit if you had to fly or car travel long distances.
Now all we need to do is get the schools on board!!
Books for Kids - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
Marvelous post on skype visits. More and more schools are using skype for author visits. At my son's high school, an award winning author made a presentation to 2,000 students. All students had already purchased the author's book. Thanks for sharing it.
Pam thanks for the great comments. I really appreciate your input. I will go check out your blog ASAP. What sort of book are you writing? For what age? I love helping writers polish and publish their work. It is such a thrill when I hear someone has had their book published. YEA!!
BOOKS for Kids - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
Clar, you are the absolute BEST. Your blog is awesome. You have the magic touch with getting readers. Throw some fairy dust on my blog please!!
Don't forget to enter the competition. Winning a tote bag of 7 author's books is not too shabby. I sent all 4 of mine!! AND a FREE PB crit form me as well.
BOOKS for Kids - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
Thank you Nicole. I would be happy to "virtual visit' your son's school and tell writing, publishing and illustrating stories + read from my latest 2 books. If teachers want something special - just let me know. Negotiation is the name of the game these days.
I think from an author/teacher POV is is a great idea. Kids will read more if they get a feel for what goes into the planning, writing, illustrating, publishing and promotion of the books they see in stores and libraries.
BOOKS for Kids - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
Seven Guardian Angel Publishing Authors ( affectionately known as GAP ) Are individually Blogging ALL 7 days of Children's Book Week Beginning May 7th - 13th, 2012 (See list of other GAP bloggers below).
We are BLOGGING about our passion: READING, WRITING, PUBLISHING or PROMOTINGetc
Your humor spills off my computer screen. Your guidance and tips in critiquing is just wonderful. You've become quite the video maven. Job well done! Keep up the great work!
I had a critique from you several years ago, Margot, and it was most helpful. Your comments inspired me. I think at that point ti was a picture book called Brittany's Wall. This year it is turning into an easy ready book called The Magic Wall and who knows where it will go. Oddly enough I blogged this week at Pen and Ink http://thepenandinkblog.blogspot.com/ on Children's Book Teacher Appreciation week and Mothers Day. I would love to know what book hooked you on reading? Blessings, Sue B
Susan, thanks for the comment. No particular book, hooked me. As long as I can remember I have read. As a kid was always getting into trouble for reading instead of doing homework or chores. I used a flashlight to read under the covers in bed, when Mum turned out the light. I read everything form jam jar labels to War and Peace. As a kid, Alice in wonderland was my favorite.
So, if there a reader-holics, I need to sign up for their 12 book. . . er step, program!!
BOOKS for KIDS - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
Seven Authors from Guardian Angel Publishing ( affectionately known as GAP ) Are still Blogging their Hearts Out for Children's Book Week May 7th - 13th, 2012 (See list of other GAP bloggers below) .
Classics seem to resonate with the majority of readers. Find a common thread and pull it taught and pluck out a familiar tune that everyone wants to hum along with.
Oh, to write a book that would become a classic...a girl can dream.
Wonderful post! As a child I was always drawn to endearing characters...animals mostly...Mimi the merry-go-round cat by Dorothy Haas, The Seven Wonderful Cats by Elizabeth Webbe...little known but so charming. The books you loved as a child seep into your soul and become part of who you are to be sure.
Thanks for the great post, Margot! Such a wonderful group of classic books. I love Dr. Seuss especially, and Winnie the Pooh was a great favorite of my daughter. How special to be able to write something that is so enjoyed through the years!
Oooh, I remember some warm times with those books. Raggedy Ann was a special one because one time when I was ill my older sister patched up her Ann and gave her to me to make me feel better. Beatrix Potter books...a gas station down the road from where I lived was giving away a free 'mini' version of her books with each fill-up, needless to say, I have the whole collection! Such wonderful books!
Oh, my, how all the titles you ladies added stirred my own childhood reading memories. Thank you ALL so much for adding your own picks. They are wonderful classics, and deserve a place on every child's book shelf.
BOOKS for KIDS - Manuscript Critiques http://www.margotfinke.com
Hi Margot, I've always loved books, and remember the Little Golden books, Mother Goose from my childhood. With my daughter, we read Sendak, Dr. Seuss books, Beatrix Potter books, Are You my Mother, Katy & the Big Snow (Katy is her name), Berenstein Bears, Go Dog Go, Curious George, Milk and Cookies, If you give a Mouse a Cookie, Mother Goose, Pokey Little Puppy, Shy Little Kitten, Little Red Hen. And so many more. It's oh so good to read to kids.
What a fun way to visit a classroom. Thanks for sharing.
That's a wonderful way to visit with the children and inspire them with your stories and knowledge, Margot. And what a great experience for you! I'm proud of you for taking on this technology challenge so beautifully, and what a special reward getting the pictures from the children!
Margot
If anyone could make a success of using Skype to reach a classroom I knew you could. Congratulations! It sounds like a fun experience.
Shari Soffe
Margot,
I think you sounded like you had too much fun!!! I am hoping to do this one day and you are an inspiration. :0)
All the best,
Tracey
Margot, this is such fun! I felt as if I were there with you and the kids. Congratulations. I love the art work!
Margot, WOW. You put me to shame. I haven't even attempted Skype yet. Congratulations!!!
This is amazing, Margot. I love how it gives us freedom to connect with readers anywhere in the world and am impressed by the school too - being able to organise and set this up. I'm interested in how you organised it in the first place - did you just advertise your availability online and they contacted you or did you send out queries? Either way, great work!
Thank you so much ladies, for your kind words. I did have fun. The kids were wonderful to work with too. I send out a message on various social networks and received some replies. One from Australia, and another from Canada, as well as the US. Once you have your basic times and program set up, it just means tweaking to fit specific needs.
Books for Kids - Manuscript Critiques
http://www.margotfinke.com
What a great idea! Sounds like a great experience for all.
It really was, Debra. The kids learn and we both have fun at the same time. Win! Win!
Books for Kids - Manuscript Critiques
http://www.margotfinke.com