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Welcome to my blog! I'm a children's book author and reviewer. Browse around for the latest news about my books, as well as author and illustrator interviews, book reviews, and articles on book promotion and the writing life.
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By:
Mayra Calvani,
on 3/4/2013
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Mrs. Burgess worked as an elementary teacher and school counselor for a total of seven years. She has a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University. Starr is busy working on her second children’s book: Counselor Dynamite Befuddles the Bullyville Crew. She currently resides with her husband, Clyde, and their daughter in Pflugerville, TX.
Thank you for this interview, Starr. Can you tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been writing?
I am a former elementary school teacher and school counselor. I live with my husband, Clyde, and our daughter in Pflugerville, TX. I have been working on writing books for five years and finally created the main character, Counselor Dynamite, whom I lovingly refer to as the pioneer super hero of schools.
Can you tell us briefly what your book is about?
This book is about Counselor Dynamite, who is the superhero of schools. The story takes place the day before Christmas break. Teachers and staff members are tired and running low on patience and the students are full of unbridled energy. Counselor Dynamite notices that something is amiss and quickly jumps into action knowing that if something isn't done soon, students, teachers and staff will never be the same once chaos is unleashed.
Why did you choose your particular genre?
I choose this genre because I worked as an elementary school counselor and had the wonderful opportunity to work with a diverse group of students. I learned that a lot of students had difficulty in the areas of conflict/resolution, problem solving, and boundaries. As a result I began writing stories that are amusing but instilled and reinforced positive character traits. I know that many children connect with and hold superheroes in high regard so I decided to create the first superhero of schools, Counselor Dynamite.
Where do you write? Do you have a favorite place?
I write in areas of my home where there is an abundance of natural light. My most favorite place to write is in my living room by the window.
What was your greatest challenge writing this book?
My greatest challenge was not in the writing of the book but in how to market the book.
Are you a disciplined writer?
I am somewhat of a disciplined writer, however most times I prefer the spontaneity of being in the moment.
Are you published by a traditional house, small press or are you self-published?
I am self-published.
Was it the right choice for you?
Absolutely! I appreciate the fact that I retain control of the creativity and direction of the writing and how Counselor Dynamite is portrayed.
How are you promoting your book thus far?
I am a vendor at the Texas Counseling Association conferences; I participate in author readings/book signings in book stores and private schools; I utilize social media such as Facebook and Twitter, and I work with an online book promotion company, Author & Book Promotions.
How is that going for you?
It’s going very well; I really enjoy meeting people with inspiring feedback and hearing about their ministry and journey.
Do you have another job besides writing?
Yes, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My private practice is LifeMenders Counseling.
Have you ever gotten an inspirational book-related moment at work and had to go run and write and it down?
No those moments usually come in the middle of the night.
Do your co-workers know they have a star among them? What has their reactions been? I don’t know if my co-workers think I’m necessarily a star but I do believe they think I am a visionary and a go getter. My colleagues have been a great source of support; they have given me words of encouragement, purchased my book and supplemental guide, and promotional products from my product line.
If you could give one book promotion tip to new authors, what would that be?
Utilize as much social media as possible, in addition to an online book promotion service company such as Author & Book Promotion.
What’s next for you?
My next book will focus on bullying and will be available in the fall along with a supplemental guide which contains lessons plans and activities for children. In the near future I will be publishing more Counselor Dynamite books, I would love to go on a book tour, be a regular on a talk and/or radio show discussing challenges children face and parent resources, and eventually partner with companies and build the Counselor Dynamite brand, maybe one day turning the adventures of Counselor Dynamite into a cartoon for children.
The World of Ink Network will be touring author and illustrator J.D. Holiday’s children’s read along picture book,
The Spy Game throughout January 2013. It's my pleasure to host J.D. on my blog today! You can find more info about her full tour
here.
Enjoy the interview!
About the Author: J.D. Holiday is the author and illustrator of four children's books. Picture books: JANOOSE THE GOOSE, THE SPY GAME, and Matt Shelley's Halloween Misadventure with Award-winning author, Christy Condoleo, and the chapter book for 6 to 8 year olds, THE GREAT SNOWBALL ESCAPADE. J.D. Holiday is a co-host on It's Story Time, Gather 'Round with Christy Condoleo on Blog Talk Radio's World Of Ink Network: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork
About the Book: Eddie would love to have a puppy to play with. A puppy would pull on a rope. Catch a ball and lick your face. But his Uncle brings Eddie an older dog named after a famous spy. What can you do with an old dog? It probably couldn't learn new tricks and the only thing this dog did was stare. It's what they find to do together that makes them the best of friends!
1. Thanks for the interview, J.D.! Could you tell us a little about yourself? I am J.D. Holiday. I'm the author and illustrator of three children’s books: Picture books are; Janoose the Goose, The Spy Game, & a chapter book for six to eight year olds, The Great Snowball Escapade. I have had a chapbook of short stories called, Trespasses published in 1994 and has had short stories printed in literary magazines and numerous articles about writing and publishing published. I host on radio show for kids on The World of Ink Network at Blog Talk Radio, It’s Story Time, which is a children's reading show. I'm also a wife, mother of one daughter and grandmother of a seven year old boy named, Luke. We live in Pennsylvania with our dog Dora.
2. Describe your workspace.
It's an old piece of furniture, a bench the top flips down and you have a table. The keyboard and monitor are in the center with a lamp behind them, the computer tower on the left of it and the scanner/printer on the right. I also use a laptop which I use sitting on the couch in my living room watching TV.
3. Do you have a favorite quote?
My favorite quote is "THERE are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other," by D. H. Everett. I find this quote more fascinating because of who Douglas H. Everett (1916 to2002) was. He was a practitioner and teacher of chemical thermodynamics which I even find hard to say. He wrote textbooks and published over 200 scientific papers about his work. His most important book, published in 1959, when I was eight years old, was his Introduction to Chemical Thermodynamics. Everett's hobbies were building scientific models mostly to illustrate. He was also a musician and talented painter.
4. What are you currently reading?
I love mysteries, and right now I am reading books by both Cleo Coyle/Alice Kimberly and Sandra Balzo: Holiday Buzz by Cleo Coyle and From The Grounds Up by Sandra Balzo.
5. What is the best advice you've ever received?
I'd say it was, 'don't let how people treat you change the way you are and stop smiling.'
6. If you could have coffee with anyone (living or dead, real or fictional), who would it be and why?
It was be my parents. I would love to ask them questions I don't know the answers to. Even though, I was 19 when my father died and 20 when my mother died I felt like a child still in many ways. I would love to learn more about them as an adult myself.
7. What are your top three favorite books and why?
To Kill A Mocking Bird by Harper Lee, Madam, Will You Talk by Mary Stewart, and Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
8. What was your favorite book as a child and why?
The Secret Garden. My second grade teacher read it to us at the end of every day.
9. What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?
I stop and write anytime a story or part of a story come to me. The problem is I have to write it down right away or I forget it. I end up jotting notes down on any piece of paper, I can find and stick all the notes into a binder that I have to go through one by one as I type my manuscripts. I have tried to be more organized but I can't change this.
10. Do you write full-time or part-time?
I write part-time going between writing and painting. About 4 hours a day.
11. If you could do anything in the world, what would it be and why?
I guess it would be to make a couple of my manuscripts into movies.
12. What is the craziest thing you ever did? This could be as a writer or any other time in yourlife.
Well, people who know me will say that I have never done anything in my life that was crazy, and I would agree. I have always felt that doing what I think is the right thing at all times was how I wanted to live my life.
13. Did you feel like a celebrity when you held your first published book?
No. It's funny to me now, but I was just so glad I was able to accomplish it finally.It was a long time in coming.
14. If you could have a star like on Hollywood Blvd, who would you want to have your star by?
I don't know if Harper Lee has a star on the Hollywood Blvd., but it she did, I would like it to be by hers. Her one story, To Kill a Mocking Bird meant a great deal to me. It was always clear that there were great injustices in the world and in that story it was never more clear.
15. Is there anything in your life you wish you could do over and why?
Yes, there are a few things I would like to have changed along the way. The problem is, if I could do that, would those changes have altered the course I'm on for the better? They might not have and I feel that things are very good for me today.
16. Who has been your biggest support or inspiration?
Early on, there wasn't anyone who supported my writing. No one thought it would be useful or a way for me to make a living. Though now, everyone in my family and close friends support me. And my grandson, Luke is my biggest support. I also know that if my father had been alive when I started writing, he would have been my biggest supported at that time, because he was a writer as well.
17. Could you share about any current writing projects?
Yes, I am working on pictures to a sequel to my first children picture book, Janoose The Goose called The Fall Feather Fair co-written with my grandson when he was 6 years old. Luke is now 7. I am also working on a collection of short stories I have written, for adults called Short Stories and Other Imaginings For The Reading Spot.
18. What would be the best way for readers to contact you?
At Twitter: http://twitter.com/JDHoliday
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/2/113703813948300028219/posts
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/jdholiday/it-s-story-time/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BooksByJDHoliday?ref=hl
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4320275-its-story-time-round-gather#
19. Where can people find your book?
My books can be bought on Amazon and Barnes & Noble on line and ordered in bookstores.
20. Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Yes, thank you so much for having me here today.
Sincerely,
JD Holiday
THE DOLL VIOLINIST
Author: Mayra Calvani www.MayrasSecretBookcase.com
Illustrations: Amy Cullings Moreno
Hardcover ISBN: 978-1-61633-185-6; 1616331852
Paperback ISBN: 978-1-61633-186-3; 1616331860
eBook ISBN: 978-1-61633-187-0; 1616331879
For ages 3-7
Five days before Christmas, Emma is captivated by a doll in a shop window. Each day, she sneaks out of the orphanage to check if it’s been sold, but the shop owner, Madame Dubois, sends her away. Will the magic of Christmas bring Emma, Madame Dubois, and the doll violinist together?
ABC's Children's Picture Book Finalist!
Honorable Mention Award in the 75th Annual Writers Digest Writing Competition!
Purchase from Guardian Angel Publishing or Amazon.
Now in enhanced version with read-aloud sound for your iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-doll-violinist/id560908783?ls=1
The Magic Violin
Author: Mayra Calvani http://www.MayrasSecretBookcase.com
Illustrations: K.C. Snider http://www.kcsniderart.com
Print ISBN 13: 978-1-933090-49-8
eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-933090-62-7
Ages 4-8
Purchase from Guardian Angel Publishing or Amazon!
Eight-year old Melina wants to become a good violinist. When she loses confidence, her Rumanian teacher Andrea decides it’s time for a magic dose of self esteem. A mysterious old woman in rags gives Melina some curious advice; a violinist Russian hamster, who happens to live under the old woman’s hat, offers her a virtuoso performance; a shooting star fills her with hope on Christmas Eve. Is Melina actually playing better, or has her violin become magic? Who is the old woman in the town square, and why does she wear the same emerald ring as her teacher Andrea?
By:
Mayra Calvani,
on 12/25/2012
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The Adventures of Zeppi series
A penguin named Zeppi makes a boy’s wish for a special friend come true. When young Alesdor finds Zeppi amongst the flowers in the garden, they adopt each other and grow in The Adventures of Zeppi series.
Zeppi and his friend have fun and discover a lot about friendship, tolerance and generosity. As Zeppi adapts to his new life with ecological-minded Alesdor, he will learn about taking care of the planet too.
Book 1 – New Friends
When Zeppi’s cage falls off a truck, he’s found by a kind boy named Alesdor, who teaches him that
compost piles are plant food and not penguin food.
Zeppi’s Christmas gift: FREE download on December 25 and 26:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Adventures-Zeppi-Friends-ebook/dp/B0094KJK1C/
Check out the other books in The Adventure of Zeppi series:
Book 2 – Circus
Now living in Alesdor’s teepee in the garden, Zeppi is overjoyed when a circus parade comes down the street. It’s so much fun, until he realizes some animals are caged. Have his parents wound up in cages at the circus? Zeppi decides to find out.
Zeppi’s Christmas gift: FREE download on December 25 and 26:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Adventures-Zeppi-Circus-ebook/dp/B009GMXIFM/
Book 3 – Learning
Penguins cannot speak human words. Will Zeppi the penguin learn to talk?
http://www.amazon.com/The-Adventures-Zeppi-Learning-ebook/dp/B009QO0984/
Book 4 – Greenback Town
During a visit to his favorite toy store, Zeppi decides to snuggle between two plush penguins that remind him of his parents. But everything turns topsy-turvy when a wildlife protection officer wants to take him to the zoo.
http://www.amazon.com/The-Adventures-Zeppi-Greenback-ebook/dp/B00ABEY9NE/
Book 5 – Cackle Island
Zeppi takes his first swim in the sea, when a storm comes up and takes him to an island inhabited by strange creatures.
Available begin January 2013.
Call for Submissions:
You see it all the time in dedications and acknowledgements of books: Words like: “To my dear husband, who has supported my writing all throughout the years in spite of the odds,” or “To my wife, who never stopped believing in me.”
But what happens when your ‘significant other’ doesn’t support your writing, either because he thinks you’ll never make it or because she thinks you’re wasting your time and efforts for nothing?
Writers often talk about their supportive spouses/partners, but seldom do we hear about the unsupportive ones—mainly because it is a cause of great sadness and shame to the writer.
I’ve heard of cases where a husband told her writer wife flat out, “You’ll never make it.” I even once heard a story about a husband who was so jealous of his wife’s ‘writing world,’ that he burned her manuscript.
Though I don’t have a working title yet, I’m looking for 2,500-3,000-word (or longer) honest, poignant first-person accounts in the style of Chicken Soup for the Soulseries. That is, true stories that are ultimately inspirational and show a great deal of perseverance and determination from the part of the writer in spite of the odds—in short, essays that will offer hope and moral support to writers who are experiencing a similar situation. The essays will be compiled into an anthology.
- Does your significant other totally ignore your ‘writing world’ or view it with contempt either because you’re not making enough money or because they feel jealous?
- Does he/she refuse to consider your writing as anything other than a ‘mere hobby?’
- Does he/she belittle or demean your ‘writer dreams?’
- Does he/she believe you’re wasting your time and should be spending that time in something more ‘valuable?’
- Does he/she make you feel guilty for those hours you spend writing?
- Does he/she say they understand, but then they put demands on your writing time and don’t respect it?
- Is he/she jealous of the time you spend writing at the computer?
- How does their behavior make you feel as a person and as a writer?
- To what extend do their criticism contribute to your insecurity, anxiety, and maybe even depression?
- How do you cope with their behavior?
- What keeps you writing and persevering in spite of all the odds?
- What would you like he/she to understand about you as a writer?
I talked about this idea with my agent and she’d be interested in representing this type of project providing I come up with a compelling set of personal essays. Of course, submissions will be treated in confidentiality and real names of people and places can be replaced with fictional ones.
Deadline: March 1st2013
You may pass on the information to people who you think might be interested.
Molly Minstrel is treated worse than Cinderella by her mom and sisters. When Molly meets the magical creature, Unwanted, she wishes her problems away. However, you must first understand what you need before knowing what to ask for. Molly will have to look within for the solution to her troubles.
Author: Kai Strand
Tour Date: October and November
Book Title: THE WISHING WELL: Another Weaver Tale
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing
ISBN(s): hardcover 978-1616333010, Softcover 978-1616333027
Publication Date: July 24, 2012
Genre of Book: Juvenile Fantasy
About the author
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. 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.
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.
Twitter URL: @KaiStrand
Publisher Websites
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HERE to see Kai's complete World of Ink blog tour!
By:
Mayra Calvani,
on 10/24/2012
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When Beverly was a child she hated to read. Even though her eighth-grade teacher sent her poem “Stars” to a high school anthology and it was published in Young America Sings she hated to write. In spite of her rocky relationship with books, she managed to graduate from high school then attended Midwestern State University, where she read more books than she could count. After four years, she graduated cum laude with, you guessed it, a teaching degree. And somewhere along the way, perhaps reading to her sons or reading great Newbery winners with her students, she discovered what she’d been missing: reading was fun. Now she reads most every day. She also writes stories and articles for children and teens.
Beverly lives in the country with her husband, two cats, and a variety of wild critters that stop by for a handout or just to peek in the door. Besides writing, she plays the piano, searches for her ancestors, and teaches a women’s Sunday school class. She also has the most beautiful grandchildren in the world.
Congratulations on yet another book release, Beverly! How do you keep yourself so productive?
Thank you, Mayra. It is fun to see a new book, after so many months of writing and editing, finally in the hands of readers. As for being productive, I think as an older writer, realizing I’m in those supposedly “golden years” motivates me to stay busy. Each hour of every day is precious to me. I hate to waste time. Maybe my years as a teacher helps too, since I’m used to a schedule. Even though I retired years ago, I still write out my plans for each day, not that I always stick to them, but I try. Also, my sons are grown and away, leaving me time for myself, which is rare when you have children at home. I do not see how writers with young kids and even teens manage to write.
I write at least two hours every morning except Saturday, which is catch up day, and Sunday, church day. Sometimes, my words are not worth keeping. Other times, they flow onto the screen and a story forms.
What was your inspiration for Life on Hold? Sounds like a compelling mystery.
One day, I read an article in the local newspaper about a young couple that had a baby while they were still in high school. The girl’s parents made her give the child away. The teens eventually went their separate ways, married others, and had other children. Years later, a chance conversation between the boy or girl (I forget which one) and a friend mentioned an 18-year-old boy they knew that had been adopted when a baby. The article went on to tell how the former boyfriend and girlfriend, who no longer were married to their spouses, found each other again and decided to search for the son they’d given up. And, you guessed it, the teen mentioned was their son. They went on to have a wonderful relationship with him. I love stories with happy endings. I also imagine this story happens quite often.
Could you share with us what your process was like during the creation of this novel?
Most of the time, my stories start from something I read about, or sometimes a little voice speaks to me, or an event begs to be told. With Life on Hold, I basically started with the plot of a teen discovering her father really was her stepfather. At first, I wasn’t sure how the story would end or even how we’d get there. The characters carried me along, occasionally as confused as I was; other times knowing exactly where they were going. I’m pretty stubborn when it comes to my writing and try to write a little every day, as I mentioned earlier. My schedule is flexible, but mornings are my best writing time. It took me a bit over two years to write the story, including many revisions and then more edits with my great editor. Yes, I’m slow, but like the turtle I eventually reach my destination.
Did you hit any walls while writing the book? If yes, what did you do to overcome them?
Not walls exactly, but the final version had many changes from the original as I got to know the characters better. I keep each draft on the chance an earlier edition might have a scene I’d want to add back in. When a scene wasn’t working, I rewrote it in different ways to see what worked best. Many times the first thought was the best.
Did you celebrate when you typed ‘The End?’
I didn’t do anything special, but the words The End are two of my favorite words. They give me a sense of accomplishment, because many times in a story, I’ll wonder if it will ever end or if I should scrap the whole thing.
What do you want readers to get out of this book?
I’d like for children/teens who are adopted or those that are step children to realize that bringing a child into the world does not make a man a father. (Or a mother, a mother) Holding, rocking, and whispering gentle words to a child when she’s sick make a father. Attending her programs at school, helping her with spelling, taking her to the movies make a father. A father and mother show their love by actions: love, discipline when necessary, and always being there when the child has a crisis, whether big or small.
What do you enjoy most about being a children’s book author?
The most exciting thing about writing for children to me is when a child or teen says he/she likes my books. What greater reward can an author wish for?
Do you have any tips for aspiring authors?
You’ve heard it before, but it’s true. Hang in there. Never give up. I have enough “No thank you” letters to paper my whole writing room, but some of them also contain a word of encouragement. Cling to those comments. Use them to improve your story. Keep writing. Learn more. Attend conferences, Online ones if you can’t get to live ones. Keep writing. Yes, I’m repeating myself, but if you stop writing when times are tough, you’ll never be published. If you’re persistent, one day, you’ll succeed. Hint: Don’t expect to get rich, unless you write a blockbuster. Enjoy the writing. For me, the finished story is the reward.
What’s on the horizon?
My chapter book, Kate, Little Angel Sometimes (title will be changed) is scheduled for a May/June 2013 release from 4 RV Publishing. January 2013 is the release date of my Tween paranormal A Pirate, a Blockade Runner, and a Cat, MuseItUp Publishing. My orphan train story, Scattered to the Winds, is under contract with Twilight Times, and Guardian Angel has Weird Noises in the Night, no dates set yet.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with my readers?
Thanks to everyone who takes the time to read my thoughts. I hope they help you in some way. Visit me on my blogs. I love comments. If you read my books, please let me know what you think.
Thank you, Beverly!
Thank you, Mayra. It’s been my pleasure, sharing my work with everyone.
Conjure
by Lea Nolan
Published by Entangled Publishing
Book description:
Be careful what you search for…
Emma Guthrie expects this summer to be like any other in the South Carolina Lowcountry–hot and steamy with plenty of beach time alongside her best friend and secret crush, Cooper Beaumont, and Emma’s ever-present twin brother, Jack. But then a mysterious eighteenth-century message in a bottle surfaces, revealing a hidden pirate bounty. Lured by the adventure, the trio discovers the treasure and unwittingly unleashes an ancient Gullah curse that attacks Jack with the wicked flesh-eating Creep and promises to steal Cooper’s soul on his approaching sixteenth birthday.
When a strange girl appears, bent on revenge; demon dogs become a threat; and Jack turns into a walking skeleton; Emma has no choice but to learn hoodoo magic to undo the hex, all before summer—and her friends–are lost forever.
My thoughts:
Conjure is one of the most entertaining young adult novels I’ve read in a long time. It is a light, fun, and sometimes spooky read filled with sympathetic characters, intriguing hoodoo magic, and turns and twists that will keep you turning pages until the very satisfying ending–one that is open and hints at what will happen in book 2. That said, the novel pretty much stands on its own and only one problem is left unsolved.
Fifteen-year old Emma is an utterly likable character, strong, brave, sensitive, and forever loyal to her beloved twin brother, for whom she will go to he ends of the world for in order to save him from the terrible curse that threatens to destroy him. Her brother Jack is just as likable but very different from her; he’s quirky and quick-witted and at times impossible and selfish just like brothers usually are. The romance subplot between Emma and Jack’s best friend, Cooper, is sweet and refreshing and adds spice to the main story–not that it needs any extra spice. Plenty of dialogue make the pace move quickly and there’s lots of interesting information about hoodoo.
I usually dislike the use of flashbacks in a story but Nolan did a good job with them. I also enjoyed the Southern setting descriptions quite a lot; they certainly bring to life the South Carolina Lowcountry with its steamy, white-sand beaches and lush vegetation. Adult intrusion is kept to a bare minimum, so the story is centered around Emma, Jack, Cooper, the old hoodoo ‘witch’ who helps them and the mysterious beauty who has suddenly, out of nowhere, appeared in their lives and who has Jack mesmerized.
There are lots of exciting scenes in Conjure, especially when the teens are forced to bend the rules and cross the line for the higher good. Though there’s magic, witchcraft and curses involved, this isn’t a horror story and the tone is kept light throughout. There’s no bad language or sexy scenes either; Nolan keeps everything pretty sweet and proper. I certainly look forward to reading more from this talented YA author.
HUMBUG WITCH by Lorna Balian
ISBN 978-1-932065-32-9
32 pages, 6 1/2"x8 1/8", ages 4-8
Hardback, $12.95
Paperback available
This title is available in: English Spanish
Purchase from
Star Bright BooksWhat can a little witch do when her witchy spells and potions don't turn out right? She just keeps on trying... until it's time for bed.
My thoughts:This is an ADORABLY CUTE picture book! It kept a smile on my face all the way to the very satisfying, surprising ending. A pity my daughter is already a teenager. I know she would have loved it and asked me to read it to her again and again if she were younger.
Our little witch has everything a horrible, witchy witch should have, from her pointed black hat to her long stringy hair to her ugly black shoes with gold buckles, and more. But the problem is, no matter how hard she tries, she can't get her magic to work. She can't make her broom move an inch; she can't turn her car Fred into an alligator; she can't even make her magic potion to explode. What else is there to do? Well, she starts taking off all her witchy items one by one, until it's time for bed and we realize our witch isn't really a real witch but a little girl who's been playing all along.
Young children 4 to 8 will surely love this story that teaches simple vocabulary and sequencing. They will also have fun identifying the various 'witchy' objects on the page. With Halloween just around the corner, this is the perfect picture book to give to your child as a holiday gift. The illustrations are cute and whimsical and full of Halloween colors. Highly recommended.
Disclaimer: I was provided this review copy by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my honest opinion and I didn't receive any financial compensation.
If you have a child who loves penguins, Book I in the Adventures of Zeppi series is FREE today in the Kindle store:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Adventures-Zeppi-Friends-ebook/dp/B0094KJK1C
From the stories of Hades and the Underworld to Persephone and Zeus.
Thousands of years ago brilliant minds like Homer and Plutarch told and wrote the tales of characters like Zeus, Hades and Persephone. The stories ranged in theme, moral and purpose, but had such far-reaching, universal appeal, many of the motifs can still be found in the literary works of today. At its core, mythology served as a way for humans to analyze both themselves and life as a whole—something people still do—either independently or in classes— to this day.
Humans seem to have this innate desire to make sense of their existence and the world around them, and that is reflected in the arts such as writing, music and dance. That being said, it comes as no surprise to me that several contemporary teen fiction/young adult novels mirror these thoughts and ideals. Below are just some titles to consider if you are looking for some added mythological context. Many of them use the myths and characters in modern settings, which eloquently displays their timeless relevance.
Iris, Messenger
Centered around middle-schooler Iris Greenworld,
this book by Sarah Deming puts ancient Greek gods and goddesses like Dionysus, Aphrodite and more in modern day Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Throughout the novel, Iris learns some lessons in self-confidence and strength, while also instilling some morals of her own onto the gods and goddesses. She also learns of various myths. It’s a great take on a traditional coming of age novel as it has an element of escapism I think many adolescents crave, while giving a cool, relevant history/culture lesson all at the same time.
Overall, it’s a story about self-discovery, which, if you think about it, is all the myths really were to begin with. Trying tales of a species trying to make sense of its existence.
Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Really any book in this series is a great example of the juxtaposition of the modern world and ancient characters from myths of the past—
this one just happens to be my favorite. Taking place in New York, the story centers on Percy Jackson—a demigod who is just 12 years old. The ever-present reminders that they are, in fact, in modern times, such as the presence of magical sneakers and references to a Las Vegas Casino, help the reader connect to what might otherwise be a foreign, unrelatable topic.
It keeps readers grounded in reality, while giving them just enough room to slip into the fantasy realm. Overall, just like the other works mentioned, it helps remind people that no matter how far we’ve come as a species, the human experience will remain the same—same hopes, fears, dreams and emotions curse through us as they did through the people around during the heyday of these myths.
Oh.My.Gods
Authored by Tera Lynn Childs,
this book examines the life of Phoebe, a high-schooler with dreams of attending USC. When a strange, unexpected turn of events places her on a secret island in Greece, amongst peers who have god-like superpowers, she is forced to find her inner strength in order to persevere. Along the way, she is faced with her fair-share of distractions, because after all, everyone has their own “Achilles heel.”
That is perhaps the biggest take-away from this book, that regardless of era or culture, people are imperfect and must rely on a sense of self and willpower to succeed.
Psyche in a Dress
Call me bias, but
this book just might be my favorite on the list. It follows the life of Psyche—a young woman struggling to find her identity. I find it so compelling, because it gets right down to the fact that the struggle of self-acceptance is far from a new concept. It is an age-old dilemma that, women especially, struggle with.
All about lost love, and loving one’s self, this is a great read for anyone trying to have faith in themselves as an individual.
Nobody’s Princess
Written by Esther Friesner,
this story recounts the tale of Helen of Troy—only this time from a different perspective. Although unlike the other books listed this novel does not take place in particularly “modern times” its approach is definitely contemporary as it allows the reader to hear and connect with Helen’s inner feminist. Unlike the traditional tale where Helen is seen as an object, she is given real personality and character here. She’s an individual with her own thoughts and feelings and girls everywhere can connect with her.
This is a must-read for anyone who can relate to the feeling of being ignored and overlooked—a timeless emotion far too many people experience….
So, whether you’re studying it for a class, or just interested in it yourself, you might consider reading one of these books. They offer new, fresh perspective on age-old tales we’ve all heard.
Patricia Garza is a freelance blogger and education writer that can offer suggestions on anything from choosing between accredited online colleges to picking a major. She welcomes your comments below.
Nicole Weaver is an award-winning children's author. Her love for languages and other cultures resulted in her writing three trilingual children's pictures books, Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle, My Sister Is My Best Friend and currently under contract My Brother Is My Best Friend. Nicole Weaver is a veteran French / Spanish high school teacher and adjunct professor of French at Arapahoe Community College in her hometown of Littleton , Colorado. Author , Nicole Weaver donates a large portion of her book proceeds to Mercy& Sharing . To learn more about Mercy & Sharing please visit:http://www.haitichildren.com/
Do you consider yourself a born writer?
No, I am not a born writer. I started writing when my two older children left home to attend college. I experienced some major depression. A friend of mine talked me into attending a local writer’s conference. I left the conference with an urgent need to start writing. I entered a poetry contest sponsored by my local library. I won first place and from there I branched out and wrote a children’s picture book. The therapeutic benefits from writing had me completely hooked.
Tell us about your recent release. What was your inspiration for it?
I got inspired to write My Sister is My Best Friend after I met my half sister for the first time in 2008. We immediately became best friends. My imagination took off. I began thinking about what it would have been like if I had grown up with her. I came up with a very positive story that portrays two twin sisters who get along and enjoy each other's company instead of being yet another typical story about sibling rivalry.
Tell us about your children's books.
My first book titled, Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle is based on true events of my childhood days in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. I lived with my father near the beach. Sea turtles came to shore to lay their eggs within walking distance from my home. I loved watching the mother turtles lay their eggs and later return to the sea. One unlucky turtle was stuck on the beach and much to my dismay; my father and uncles had plans for the poor turtle. In short, Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle is about what happened at the beach so many years ago.
My third book is very similar to My Sister is My Best Friend. My Brother is My Best Friend is currently under contract with Guardian Angel Publishing. It is a story about two twin brothers. A blogger left a message on my blog asking me to write a book about twin brothers, and that is how I came up with the idea to write the manuscript. Much to my delight, My Brother is My Best Friend came to be.
What was your favorite book as a child?
I loved The Curious George Series. I loved the pictures and reading them helped me learn how to read in English.
What are you working on now?
I am working on a manuscript, which is currently being critiqued. I think the manuscript should be ready for submission soon. I wrote a story about fraternal twins. I thought it would be great to complete the series. My first book is about two twin sisters, second book about twin boys and now the third about a boy/girl twin.
Where are your books available?
Amazon:
My Publisher:
Barnes & Noble:
Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your works?
Yes, readers can go here:
Mayra , thank you for taking the time to interview me.
Vampires are so passé. It’s not all about ghosts now. If you’re looking for a good read to spook you just in time for Halloween this season, you might want to check out some of these great YA titles below. Some are funny, some are spooky, and some are just down right interesting. Either way, none of the titles will make you say “boo”—they’re just that good.
The Summoning is the first instalment of a three-part book series called the Darkest Power, written by newbie author Kelly Armstrong. This coming of age story follows 15-year-old Chloe Sanders who initially starts off as a normal teenager with “normal” insecurities but then realizes she has something else to worry about —she can see the undead. When family and friends don’t believe her, she is sent to a boarding house for mentally disabled and disturbed teens. Soon Chloe learns that many of her new roommates share her same special gifts—but can they be trusted? The Summoning is definitely a page turner and creepy in its own respect.
Anya’s Ghost is actually a beautifully illustrated and written graphic novel by Vera Brosgol, an author who I praise for her witty and dark-humor style of writing. In a nutshell, Anya is a young Russian teen that feels like an outcast trying to get acclimated to her new Americahigh school. She struggles with common teen issues such as body image and wanting to belong with the “in” crowd. In the end she longs to have just one friend. Her wish finally comes true when she falls down a well and comes in contact with the ghost of a teen who is now long forgotten. But when Anya’s new BFF says forever, she really means it.
Bad Girls Don’t Die is the first installment of a three-part series under the same name by author Katie Alender. The book’s teen protagonist Alexis becomes severely concerned for her younger sister after she becomes obsessed with one of her new antique dolls. Alexis not only notices that her young is changing inside and out, but a bunch of paranormal activities start to occur within the house as well. Alexis soon becomes determined to find out why.
The title is a bit gruesome but foreshadows the intense ghosts and monsters author Kendare Blake attempts to introduce in Anna Dressed in Blood. Its male teen protagonist Cas Lowood comes from a lineage of ghost killers. With the help of his witch mother and special-skilled cat, he battles evil forces on a regular basis. One eerily evening, however, he is sent to vanquish a vicious murdering ghost named Anna Dressed in Blood, a name bestowed to her after she was murdered in a now blood-stained white gown in 1958. She kills all who crosses her path, but for some strange reason she chooses to spare Cas’ life.
Lastly but certainly not least is Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama. This book combines mermaids, ghosts, and a good mystery all-in-one. Similar to Christian Anderson’s The Little Mermaid a beautiful mermaid falls in love with a male human and trades in her fins for a pair of legs. But there’s one huge difference: a curse is placed upon future generations in her family. Women who fall in love have an untimely death. Will Hester, a great, great granddaughter of the mermaid, see the same fate when she falls for a boy named Ezra?
Nadia Jones is a freelance education writer for www.onlinecollege.org, a website that specializes in online education. Nadia also enjoys covering an array of education-related topics that help college-bound teens expand their minds such as offering book listings. She welcomes your comments.
By:
Mayra Calvani,
on 9/5/2012
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In the middle of the night, a mysterious red truck races down Happy Town. Its cargo? Cages filled with penguins on their way to be shipped to another country. Suddenly the doors fling open and one cage rolls down the street and lands in a garden. From it, a little penguin steps out fearfully, awed at the world around him. Up until now, he has only known the constraints of the zoo.
In the morning, a boy named Alesdor discovers him and decides to keep him. Naturally, they immediately click and become the best of friends. Though the little penguin, Zeppi, is heartbroken from being separated from the rest of his family, he finds warmth and affection in Alesdor, who is as anxious for a friend as his new companion.
This children’s book by first-time Belgian author C.K. Omillin put a smile on my face throughout; not only because it’s about a penguin (and who doesn’t love penguins?), but because the story is sweet and weaves elements of friendship, family and ecological, planet-friendly values. This is the first instalment in The Adventures of Zeppi series and the beginning of their escapades. The adorable illustrations in soft pastel colors complement the story perfectly. This isn’t the standard picture book for 3-7 year olds that has short text and includes artwork on almost every page, but rather a picture book for slighter older kids (ages 6-9), who can handle longer stories. Still, there are 13 illustrations in this book, many of them spot illustrations.
I’m really looking forward to reading the next book in the series. The Adventures of Zeppi is sure to become a favourite of children, especially those who love penguins. C.K. Omillin is definitely an author to keep your eye on.
Rean my interview with author C.K. Omillin on Blogcritics.
If you are, or ever have been, an aspiring children’s book author, then like me, you’ve had times when you’ve either been closed out of great conferences, had to travel great distances to hear from experts in the field, or spent a lot of money on fees and travel.
I was a frustrated, but very motivated, aspiring children’s book author, who decided to do something about it. Having been an aspiring children’s book author for a very long time (on and off for 12 years) and having made the decision to finally devote my free time and career to doing what I really loved (writing for children), I needed education and training from the best, experienced children’s book authors available. So in an effort to help other aspiring, frustrated, and motivated aspiring children’s book authors (and myself), I began Writing for Children Live.
Writing for Children Live is a website where you can learn from the best experts in the field of writing childrens' books, from the comfort of your own home, through FREE, LIVE teleconference calls and webinars. No fees, no travel. You can listen in on your phone or via your computer. If for some reason you can't make the call or webinar at the time and date it is scheduled for, there is no need to worry. A replay of the call/webinar will be made available for your convenience FREE for 24 hours following the live call. So no getting closed out, either.
If you miss the replay of your favorite, author, agent or publisher, or if you heard the call, but wish you could hear it again, and again, for all of the great information and tips, all calls will be made available to purchase on an MP3 download (after the 24 hour free replay). All webinars will also be available to purchase, so that you can watch it as many times as you want to.
My favorite quote from the movie Field of Dreamsis “If you build it, they will come.” So when I decided to start Writing for Children Live, I thought that if this website was meant to be, the speakers will come. You can imagine the THRILL I had when the first author to submit a proposal to speak on Writing for Children Live was the one and only, Newbery Honor Award Winner, Marion Dane Bauer!
I can’t wait to host Marion Dane Bauer’s teleconference call and webinar in September and am so tremendously excited about hosting all of the other great authors that are coming this fall: Angela Morrison, Susan Shaw, John Micklos, Jr. and K. M. Walton. Even more great authors are coming this Winter and Spring (you won’t want to miss my interview on writing coming this spring with Ella Enchanted’s author Gail Carson Levine!!!)
Thank you so very much to Mayra Calvani for allowing me to be a guest blogger this week on her blog and giving me the opportunity to share the information about this great opportunity with all of you!!!
Have you ever been accused of being a lemming? When someone calls you a lemming, they are indicating that you are blindly following a direction or a crowd, along the same vein as “Would you jump off a bridge because all your friends are?” When you are asked to do something or support something that you know little about, don’t be afraid to ask questions like, “Why should I do this?” or “Who else is involved?” The more questions you ask and the more information you are given, the less likely you are to find yourself in an unexpected and uncomfortable situation.
The idea of media attention gone bad is demonstrated in our everyday lives. I think it’s even worse now that misreports can go viral and spread around the world before the subject even knows wrong information is out there. I admit, that I’ve hit the share button on a story that made me angry only to find out afterward that it was false. That’s really embarrassing and I try to be more cautious now by checking Snopes.com or confirming the story through other sources first before sharing it and my opinion.
In my new novel, SAVE THE LEMMINGS, I’ve combined both misreports and some lemming-like behavior to really screw up main character, Natalie’s life and now it is up to this incurable priss to overcome the lies and scandal and set the story straight. Will her sunshine and daisies personality win out or will it be trampled by a stampede of reporters?
There are real lemmings in my novel too and Natalie gets so distracted by the overwhelming media attention that she almost forgets to save them!
Don’t be a lemming. Be responsible about the things you say and the manner in which you say them. Remember, there are people on the other end of that story who your words impact.
About the Book: SAVE THE LEMMINGS! 8
thgrade 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? Read and excerpt and order your copy of
Save the Lemmings here:
http://www.featherweightpublishing.com/ShowBook.php?YA=KS_SAVE_LEMMINGS
About the author: 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.
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.
It's never too early to teach children about health and safety. Children's author Melissa Abramovitz has written a delightful, rhyming ABC picture book for kids ages four-eight that introduces these very topics in a fun, entertaining way.
As children follow the journey from letters A to Z and learn the alphabet, they will also explore and learn important tidbits about health basics and safety habits ranging from active aerobics to needed nutrition, to toothbrushing time to vital vitamins, and much more.
The language and tone of the book are appropriate for this age group and Alexander Morris' brightly colored illustrations are the perfect complement to the author's melodic rhymes.ABC's of Health and Safetyis perfect for homeschoolers, teachers and parents in either a classroom or home environment. Highly recommended!
Hi all,
Leticia Gomez, CEO and Founder of
Savvy Literary Services, is a literary agent specializing in the Latino/Hispanic book market. She only has 5 more days to become eligible for a $250,000 grant from CHASE. This grant would really help her expand her business and assist Latino authors who live all over the world get their works published.
Please take a moment and vote for Savvy Literary Services!
All you need to do is login
HERE with your Facebook 'login' and vote for 'Savvy Literary Services'.
Deadline to vote is June 30, 2012!
Please help me spread the word by sharing this on Facebook and Twitter!
Thanks!
Mayra
Interview by Marcela Landres, editor of Latinidad
Pam Allyn is the executive director of LitLife and LitWorld, national and
global literacy organizations. She is a nationally recognized expert on
children's reading and writing development. Her books and work have
received numerous awards, including the National Parenting Magazine and
Mom's Choice awards. She lives in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. For
more information, visit http://pamallyn.com/
Q: Many parents know the advantages of reading to their children, but why
is it important for children to also write?
A: I see reading as breathing in, and writing as breathing out. They go
together as beautifully as that. A growing child is busy creating all the time,
whether through play or through conversation, and writing is a way for the
child to begin to put ideas out into the world. In writing, the child practices
what they are absorbing through reading and being read to. The beauty of
language, the pleasure of a rhyme, the lovely choice of the perfect word.
When the child goes to his own page or screen, he then makes decisions
based on what he's heard and read. What moved him in his reading life will
propel him towards a writing life. Also, the child who writes is learni
'Tween author, Mary Cunningham has written five adventures for the series, Cynthia's Attic. The Missing Locket, The Magic Medallion, Curse of the Bayou, The Magician's Castle, and The Legend of Lupin Woods take twelve-year-old best friends, Cynthia and Gus, through a magic trunk in Cynthia's Attic that sends them through time solving mysteries and having adventures with their ancestors.
The author is also a dedicated advocate for closing down puppy mills and for pet adoption.
Adopted Dogs Make Fantastic Family Members, and, pretty great book characters, too!
I was in the middle of writing the fourth installment in my series, Cynthia's Attic, when our furry, adopted "daughter" left for Doggy Heaven. Molly was 16, and had filled our lives with joy, laughter and love for almost 13 years. My friends knew what a hole this left in my heart, so one suggested, "Why don't you write Molly into the book?"
Oooh, great idea!
Molly, the Time Traveling Canine. Love it! Okay, that's not the title. It's really
"Cynthia's Attic: The Magician's Castle (Book Four)," but this little pooch plays an important role in helping best friends, Cynthia and Gus, find clues that might lead to a magician's missing assistant (and fiancée).
I don't want to give away too much about Molly's magical role, but the name and stature of Secretariat comes to mind, and she clearly has powers that allow her to travel back and forth through time, and change shapes along the way. I can tell you right now, Molly has no evil intentions. Nor does she want to switch bodies with Cynthia or Gus. But, she does pull off some pretty amazing feats!
Just like ourMolly, who stole the hearts of her mom and dad with her big brown eyes, wagging tail and boundless love so many years ago.
It's been over three years since we lost Molly; just long enough to finally give our hearts to another adopted daughter. Lucy is, without a doubt, the funniest dog I've ever been around, so expect to see a story, soon, about her exploits. Although Lucy isn't one of the characters in the fifth book, The Legend of Lupin Woods, who knows; she may, someday, get her own series!
And, please remember, Don't shop! Adopt!
Mary Cunningham, author
Hi all,
The Children's Book Week event was a success. We had a total of 471 entries, which is great.
Here are the winners and they have been contacted:
Tote bag of GAP books - Janet Smart
Picture Book Manuscript Critique by Margot Finke - Katrina Simpkins
Thanks to all who participated!
Themes in Colors Like Memories
First off, thanks a million for hosting me today! I love connecting with other writers and readers :) And I do have a contest running for my blog tour—all commenter’s are entered into a drawing for two copies of my book, and one person will win a $25 giftcard to Amazon or Barnes & Nobel. There are more details on my home blog, if you want to check it out!
So, today I thought I’d talk a little about the themes in Colors Like Memories—my debut novel published by MuseItUp. Some part of me is going “Oh, great, back to high school English class.” Back then, I was a lot more into reading for an escape than reading for themes and symbolism and all the other stuff that cropped up on midterms and finals. When I’m writing, I’m still more invested in characters and plots and world-building than anything else :) But there are a few things in my book that are subjects that I have spent a lot of time thinking about that worked their way into the story and plot.
The most prominent of these is probably forgiveness. My main character, Julia, feels a huge amount of guilt over the death of her boyfriend. Marcy, the girl Julia’s supposed to be helping, feels terrible about the death of her mother. Both of these girls are trying to find a way to play the cards they have been dealt, and Marcy at least is ready to throw in her hand. Wow, doesn’t that sound uplifting? I swear it’s not as dark and depressing as it might seem! Anyhow, I think most people have faced events in their life that have brought them a great deal of sadness and loss, and finding a way to face this can be some of the hardest trials we ever face. They can be also incredibly character building (see what I did there? Character building? Gotta love the bad puns!). Learning how to forgive others, and especially how to forgive oneself, are definitely themes that are addressed in CLM. Of course, there’s some romance, a bookstore, and lots of flying tossed into the mix to make things interesting!
Inquiring minds want to know: do you find it easier to forgive others, or yourself?
Release date: May 11th 2012 from MuseItUp Publishing.
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By:
Mayra Calvani,
on 5/25/2012
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The Realms of Animar is an enjoyable read, one that will appeal to teens who are fans of fantasy and science fiction.
Set in a world where people have two forms, one human and one animal, this is the story of Thane, a teenage boy whose life is suddenly turned upside down when his animal form unexpectedly transforms into something never seen before. Filled with inmmense power, he now holds the key to the future of
Animar and to saving his people from struggle and oppression. But Fatalis, the evil force who plans to rule Animar, learns about Thane and creates an army to destroy him and anybody who gets in the way of his plan. In order to fight Fatalis, Thane seeks the help of other beings, the Avians and Aquans. In a twist of fate, the hunters and the hunted must get together to save their world.
Though the beginning was kind of slow, with a lot of information being presented by dialogue, I was intrigued with the story enough to keep reading. The author does a fairly good job in creating his medieval world — which, by the way, doesn't have dragons, elves or sorcery like so many other books in this genre nowadays — and dividing it into five realms: Herbivore, Carnic, Avian, Aquan and Reptilian. I enjoyed the action, battle scenes, and watching Thane grow into a brave, fearless warrior and hero. Though it has some violence, the language and other aspects make this book appropriate for the lower young adult crowd and even for middle graders. Recommended for readers 11 & up.
Read more: http://blogcritics.org/books/article/book-review-the-realms-of-animar/#ixzz1vuXLnMbH
By:
Mayra Calvani,
on 5/26/2012
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Kimberly Dana's latest book will bring hours of reading pleasure to teen girls, especially those with a particular interest in cheerleading.
Years ago, a murder was committed in a cheerleading camp: a beautiful teenager with beautiful red flowing hair was drowned in the lake. Rumors say the killer was her best friend.
Now, ten years later, our witty protagonist Tiki Tinklemeyer is put in the same camp by her parents, who want their daughter to become more social and outgoing. But Tiki couldn't hate the situation more. She feels awkward and out of place, to say the least. She's not into fashion, makeup and boys, like the other girls in the camp. Worst of all, she's never done cheerleading in her life! How could her parents have been so cruel? How will she possibly fit in? Thank God, one of her roommates, Rubi, turns out to be rather nice.
Soon, Tiki finds out about the ten-year old murder and the rumors that the dead girl's ghost still roams the camp. Tiki can handle rumors of ghosts. After all, she's an intelligent girl with common sense. However, things take a turn for the worse when strange events begin to take place in the camp. Is it one of the girls playing a trick on her — or is it the ghost of the murdered girl?
This was a delightful read! Dana really has a talent for getting inside the head of teen girls. The voice is young and fresh and the pace moves quickly with lots of fun, quirky dialogue. So this is a soft horror story with a humorous twist. The story was intriguing enough to keep me reading throughout, and the ending was good, promising more to come in Book Two. The only thing I found a little annoying was how the author wrote the dialogue by some of the girls in capitals. At times it was too much, and I found it distracting. Because of this detail, I'm going to give this book 4.5 instead of 5. Recommended!
Writing allows me to be creative and imaginative. As a writer, I have learned to balance this creativity with organization to meet my goals
.
I have read many books on organization for writers and general audiences. Some of the books are by Kathryn Lay, David Fryxell and Kristi Holl. From them, I have gleaned ideas that work well for my personality. I have found that these ideas allow me to make the most of my writing time.
At the beginning of each year, I write a goals list. For 2012, some of the goals I have are to:
· Write two picture books from picture book ideas file.
· Begin writing one early chapter book.
· Watch the Alderson Plot videos.
· Start or revise an article or story every two weeks.
· Submit a manuscript/proposal every month.
· Submit manuscripts for at least two contests.
· Look up top children’s books and check them out from the library
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Yes, I agree. The biggest challenge these days is marketing, not writing. It takes up a large bulk of the time an author could be spent writing!
I set up my computer desk and write in the dining room. I don't like the thought of being shut away and writing. I feel more energy being in the thick of things.
Good luck with your release!
Morgan Mandel
http://www.morganmandel.com
Congratulations on your book. I think the biggest challenge is finding someone to publish your book. Good luck.
Hi there!
I recently came across your blog and have been enjoying reading through it very much! You post lots of interesting things about children's literature here- I particularly enjoy the interviews you include like this one!
I was wondering if you would be interested in sharing your blog on Glipho? Glipho is a new social blogging network that aims to promote the writing of its users and help build their audiences. We are trying to establish a creative community at Glipho, and could help your blog reach new readers and gain exposure.
As your blog is powered by Blogger, you can simply import all your old posts to Glipho without affecting your existing blog at all. You can use your Glipho account to connect to any other major social network accounts you may own, so you can spread your blog as far as possible. We also use our own social media accounts to promote your content.
If you're interested check out our website at http://glipho.com and have a look around. Please feel free to ask me any questions, and if you would like to receive an invite to set up an account.
Have a great day,
Teo
Glipho Limited
14 Suite 3 D
Docklands Business Centre
10-16 Tiller Road
London E14 8PX
(e): teo@glipho.com
(w): www.glipho.com