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Viewing: Blog Posts Tagged with: tour, Most Recent at Top [Help]
Results 1 - 25 of 69
1. Yay for Le Tour De France being on!



Yay for Le Tour De France being on!



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2. Cartoon Yatra

cartoon-modi india -monicaवो क्या है ना इतनी यात्राए और बोलना भी इतना कुछ पडता है इसलिए …. भाईयों और बहनों :)

The post Cartoon Yatra appeared first on Monica Gupta.

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3. Happy 450th birthday William Shakespeare!

But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve …
– Othello (Act 1, Sc. 1, l.64)

April 2014 sees Shakespeare mature to the ripe old age of 450, and to celebrate we have collected a multitude of quotes from the famous bard in the below graphic, crafting his features with his own words.

To read the free scenes, open the graphic as a PDF.

Shakespeare birthday infographic

Download the graphic as a jpg or PDF.

Oxford Scholarly Editions Online provides an interlinked collection of authoritative Oxford editions of major works from the humanities. Scholarly editions are the cornerstones of humanities scholarship, and Oxford University Press’s list is unparalleled in breadth and quality. Read more about the site, follow the tour, or watch the full story.

Subscribe to the OUPblog via email or RSS.
Subscribe to only literature articles on the OUPblog via email or RSS.

The post Happy 450th birthday William Shakespeare! appeared first on OUPblog.

0 Comments on Happy 450th birthday William Shakespeare! as of 4/8/2014 6:59:00 AM
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4. It’s time for YallFest Y’all!

The schedule has been posted, the streets of Charleston cordoned off, and locals are hiding their cookie jars because the authors are coming to town!

 

Here’s the schedule for this weekend’s festivities, but I’ll point out a few things I’ll be involved in below (The Storyball will be particularly nuts):

SATURDAY NOV. 9TH PANELS

1PM

CMH: THE MIDDLE GRADE STORYBALL Pseudonymous Bosch, Adam Gidwitz, Lisi Harrison, Alexander London, Lisa McMann, Barnabas Miller, Lauren Oliver, Carrie Ryan, Natalie Standiford, JE Thompson, Sean Williams (All Middle Grade Authors will be on stage!) Moderator: Matthew Cody

4PM

BALLROOM: WRITING FOR KIDS Matthew Cody, Adam Gidwitz, Lisa McMann, Carrie Ryan,, C. Alexander London Moderator: Pseudonymous Bosch

6PM

CMH: YA Smackdown SOLD OUT


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5. Starred Review for WILL IN SCARLET!

I’m currently in lovely Saratoga Springs visiting the equally lovely Northshire Bookstore, but I wanted to take a moment from the road and share this very nice review from The Bulletin. They say so many nice things I’m going all blushy.

«Cody, MatthewWill in Scarlet.Knopf, 2013[272p]
Trade ed. ISBN 978-0-375-86895-5$16.99
Library ed. ISBN 978-0-375-96895-2$19.99
E-book ed. ISBN 978-0-375-89980-5$10.99
Reviewed from galleys    R*Gr. 5-7
With his father off crusading for King Richard, thirteen-year-old Will Shackley must leave childhood mischief behind him as he takes on the responsibility of governing the Shackley estate. He makes a fine start, slaughtering two wolves during a hunt with his father’s men, but when Prince John’s thugs later attack Will’s home in an attempt to force fealty, the boy flees the battle to survive. Finding refuge among a merry band of thieves (including a drunken archer named Rob) in Sherwood Forest, Will sets out to plan his revenge but is soon confronted with the possibility that injustice is not simply the fault of one bad man. The punches packed in this historical action tale are both physical and emotional, as Will discovers that the sheltered world he grew up in is a privilege for very few and a distant dream for most. Cody’s pacing is a clever construction of frenzied but focused fight sequences balanced with quiet, subtle moments of self-reflection on Will’s part. Rich characterization does justice to each of the main players here, especially the villains: their motivations are made clear and understandable so that readers, like Will, come to realize the world is a complicated place with room for good and evil and much in between. Early scenes of wolf hunting and thrilling ambushes will likely draw even the most reluctant reader in, while the careful prose and likable hero will see them through to the satisfying conclusion.  KQG

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6. A Scurrilous National Book Tour!

I’ll be traveling the country this fall talking about Will in Scarlet to any vagabonds and scallywags that will listen! Below is the schedule of where you can find me and when. Be sure to check back for updates as we get closer to the actual dates!

Huzzah!

Friday, October 4th

Voracious Reader (Larchmont, NY)

 

Sunday, October 13th

New York Comic-Con

 

Tuesday, October 15th 

Lemuria Books (Jackson, MS)

 

Thursday, October 17th

The Country Bookshop (Southern Pines, NC)

 

Friday, October 18th

McIntyre’s Books (Chapel Hill, NC)

 

Saturday, October 19th

Barnes & Noble (Cary, NC)

 

Sunday, October 20th

Barnes & Noble (Skokie, IL)

 

Monday, October 21st

Anderson’s Bookshop (Downer’s Grove, IL)

 

Tuesday, October 22nd

The Book Stall (Winnetka, IL)

 

Saturday, October 26th

Books of Wonder (New York City, NY)

 

Friday, November 1st

The Center for Fiction (New York – not open to the public)

 

Sunday, November 3rd

Northshire Bookstore (Saratoga, NY)

 

Saturday, November 9th

YALLFest (Charleston, SC)

 

 

 


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7. Brown Blog Tour and Giveaway for Julie Campbell

Brown and the End of the Line
Kansas, 1900
By J. A. Campbell

Part Four

kira_brown1“Call off your dog, mister,” the sheriff said.

Growling more loudly, I crouched to the floor and glared at him.

“Brown, easy. It’s all a misunderstanding.”

I continued to glare, but I quieted my growl.

“She won’t hurt you, and I’m not worshiping the devil.”

The sheriff slowly holstered his gun and grabbed Elliott’s arm. “We’ll just see about that.”

“Ask the conductor. I’m trying to stop the ghost. We got one in Miller, Colorado. Wire Sheriff Tolbert.” Elliott smelled afraid and sounded desperate.

I stifled another growl.

“Time enough for that. Let’s go.” The sheriff shoved Elliott in the back, making him stumble down the narrow hallway. The priest followed and I stayed behind them, not letting Elliott out of my sight but staying far enough away that they wouldn’t be able to grab me. A few passengers stared as we marched past, but no one said anything. Though I was more concerned about Elliott, I didn’t forget the reason we were on the train and I kept my nose alert for ghost smells.

“Sirs, please, I’m here to hunt the ghost. I must get back to my room. It could be here any minute.” Elliott stopped and turned toward the sheriff and the priest.

“Son, there’s no such thing as ghosts.”

I couldn’t understand why the sheriff called Elliott son. He wasn’t that much older than my human. The priest on the other hand looked very old, with thin white hair and lines on his face like humans got when they were older.

“Yes….” Elliott’s reply was drowned out by a sharp screech that would have set me to barking if I’d still been on my feet, but the train lurched at the same time and I went sprawling, hitting the back of the priest’s legs and knocking him into the sheriff.

Elliott stumbled into the wall but stayed on his feet. He stared at the fallen men in shock and I had to bark to get is attention.

Run! I would have shouted at him if I could.

“Of course.” He seemed to know what my bark meant and sprinted past the fallen men before they could regain their feet.

Running close behind him, I got a strange feeling and, even though I knew I shouldn’t, I darted forward and grabbed Elliott’s ankle with my teeth and sent him sprawling.

“Ow! Brown, what are you doing?”

Gunshots rang out behind us and an eerie howl rattled my teeth. Something white shot by overhead. It seemed brighter than the lights in the hallway and it rattled the glass as it raced past.

“Good girl, Brown. I should know better than to question you.”

Women screamed up ahead.

“Go, get the ghost. See if you can push it back to our room.”

I jumped over Elliott’s back and I heard him get to his feet and start running as I chased after the ghost. It had made it to the dining car where a few people were enjoying an evening snack. Well, they had been enjoying it, but I smelled musty-ozone everywhere and the walls dripped with ghost slime. One woman was having hysterics and I could smell the ghost all over her and she looked wet with slime too.

Despite all the slime, the ghost was not in the dining car anymore. I barked, seeing if it would come when I called. No luck, but screams from the next room down let me know the ghost was still there, and if I hurried….

***
Be sure to check out David Riley – http://sftrails.blogspot.com/ tomorrow for Part Five!

The Schedule:
Intro – June 11th – J. A. Campbell – https://writerjacampbell.wordpress.com/blog/
Part 1- June 12th – Sam Knight – http://samknight.com/
Part 2 – June 13th – Bea’s Book Nook – http://beasbooknook.blogspot.com/
Part 3 – June 14th – Amaleen Ison – http://www.amaleenison.com/
Part 4 – June 15th – Jen Wylie – http://jlwylie.wordpress.com/
Part 5 – June 16th – David Riley – http://sftrails.blogspot.com/
Interview with Brown – June 17th – Anne Michaud – http://annecmichaud.wordpress.com/

The Contest:
Follow the link to enter a contest to win a copy of Science Fiction Trails 10 in which Brown battles Martians. US only I’ll send the winner a signed copy, the rest of the world, you have to take an unsigned copy, sorry. You gotta be willing to give me your address though  Alternately the winner can chose a Kindle copy. Contest runs from June 11th through June 30th. I’ll pick three winners.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Campbell_authorpic1Bios:
Brown – Brown is a Border Collie who hunts ghosts, and other things as it turns out, with her human, Elliott Gyles. You can find out more about her adventures here: https://writerjacampbell.wordpress.com/eye-of-the-dog/

Julie – Julie writes fantasy novels. When she’s not out riding her horse, she can usually be found sitting in front of her computer with a cat on her lap and her dog at her side. Read more about her other stories here: http://www.writerjacampbell.com

Excerpt from Brown Goes Full Steam Ahead in the Penny Dread Three Anthology:
I quickly grew used to the shrieking whistle and the rumble of the steam engines that vibrated my paws constantly. We stood in the front of the ship while it rumbled down the Mississippi. Occasionally water would splash my nose and the scents that filled the air kept me busy with all the stories they told. I was almost disappointed when Elliott told me it was time for our performance. The sun was low in the sky and the people who worked on the boat said the ghost, they referred to it as a she, usually came out during the performances or at night when the passengers would stroll on the decks.


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8. Star Tour Sum up

I have completed, what I hope was a very successful promotional tour for my new book, Isabella Star of the Story which came out April 1, 2013. I am sure I will tell you more details and show you pictures someday, but as still have two other tours and photos to tell you about, I will just sum up for now.

The tour included such wonderful highlights and accolades as:

  • “You look much leaner than last year” (perhaps my favorite comment in San Jose from a returning fan…did I mention returning fan? at Hicklebee’s)
  • Ethan in Philadelphia who changed schools and has now seen me THREE TIMES thanks to Children’s Book World.
  • A Southern CRM and a go-getting book loving principal in Bucks county that almost sold triple digits of my books at just one little old school. And a school that puts me on their outside sign always makes me feel so welcome!
  • An event at Changing Hands in Arizona, not just a regularly scheduled story time and having folks attend and having Eddie and Brandi and Faith reward me with “Keeper of the Lost Cities” by Shannon Messenger which I am reading and loving between doing what I am supposed to be doing (i.e. writing thank you notes, looking at expenses, writing a new book, you know…)
  • Seeing old friends and new in Chicago, home of Sourcebooks, Anderson’s Bookshop and some super smart kids who noticed new things in the book I had not seen yet!
  • Meeting Mike Litwin and crew (i.e. his entire gang of girls, minus the new one that won’t be here for a few more weeks) for the first time and doing wonderful events in North Carolina, including Mike’s hometown B&N (where his own brother, James, pushes our books!) and Quail Ridge Books. Wow, can that man color! (and draw a bit too!)
  • A quick trip to Miami to visit a totally tatted up lover of kidlit named Becky (someday I will show you some photos and you will get all that) and beautiful school visits with Books and Books
  • Minneapolis… and snow… and B&N and some super engaged schools and Red Balloon and the library and Marianne Richmond for wine (shh… don’t tell, it was a work meeting) and did I mention SNOW!

  • Salt Lake City – wonderful Headstart staff, and B&N Cali transplant and Provo library, did I tell you how gorgeous the scenery is there? Those mountains, the lake… beautiful old stone buildings. A window decal with a practically life sized me? The King’s English set up an interview with a puppet, hope it went well, Earl E. Literacy, spokespuppet for the Salt Lake Public Library was a tough questioner. A cool Band, Matteo.
  • Some local schools with great local stores, Towne Center Books, Kepler’s, Copperfield’s, Books Inc. I even got a school lunch. It was packaged food day, and interesting, but greatly appreciated because it was a quick trip to the next school.
  • Did I mention LA – a lovely library night with Mrs. Nelson’s in which even adults chuckled at my own special brand of humor.
  • The Target children’s stage at the LATimes Book Festival. I felt like a big deal, met a bunch of famous authors back stage and the Imagination Movers, Choo Choo Soul and THE JUSTICE LEAGUE.
  • Top it all of with a trip to Fort Worth for the Texas Library Association Annual Conference where I signed books for a bunch of lovely librarians, who were anything but “types” and met the TEXAS LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR, wearing her medal as she should be!


  • Phewww… wonderful.

    Related posts:

    1. BFNBT #2 – My Name is Not Alexander – Jennifer Fosberry Tour
    2. Target Book Festival – Color me Star Struck!
    3. Big Fancy National Book Tour begins at home for Book #3

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    9. On the road again…..

    It’s been a while and I will tell you that I have learned a few things since my last post.
    One: the ukelele is not for me.
    Two: JJJ (that’s Brazilian Jui Jitsu) really is, but it is a long road and life has been getting in the way lately.

    How is that possible?

    I fell off the wagon in December. My kids tag-teamed me with illness after illness. We had coughs, we had chills, we had clean-ups. I used my Super-Mom powers to prevent catching any of their nasty germs.

    We all know that December is a low-key, easy-going kind of month. There aren’t any side tasks involved with major holidays. There aren’t any performances at school that can’t be missed. There aren’t any tasks the Mom would be able to do so much easier without “assistance” or company. Just to make life interesting, we threw in a trip to Florida to see my parents and my brothers from Dec 25 to Dec 31 (lower prices if you fly on “the” days.) This meant we woke up, had California Christmas, cleaned up, got on a red-eye, had Florida Boxing day, a great week, then a late night flight home on New Year’s Eve. We would have celebrated it in 4 time zones if we weren’t napping.

    But I did the duck thing. I was calm on the surface, but paddling like mad below. Things got done. Until January hit me like a ton of bricks. Those Florida and Ohio germs took me down! I had the cough, the chills and the cleanups.

    Before you know it, it was February. And now it’s almost April. But I haven’t been resting on my laurels. I have been busy!

    I realized that with only 2 (count them folks – 2! more posts, I have finished telling you about my very first BFNBT (that’s the Big Fancy National Book Tour). And now I am about to start my fourth BFNBT!

    I leave April 1 to promote Isabella Star of the Story!
    I am hurriedly and frantically and excitedly trying to update my website, blog, schedule the kids, prep the babysitter, update my google calendar, prepare my presentation, pack, and oh, yea – breath!

    So very soon, more details. Promise.

    Related posts:

    1. Speaking this weekend in Walnut Creek
    2. Real Road Runner Video

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    10. The Chronicles of Fire and Ice Tour

    Merry Christmas everyone!

    Today I have author Laura Hunter on my blog for her book tour. I met Laura on facebook some time ago, she is an amazing and wonderful woman! Please enjoy this interview and be sure to check out her new release! It is available at Amazon ,
    Barnes and Noble (paperback only at this point- if you want a nook copy please click on “request from publisher” and
    Kobo

    1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?

    I’m 24 years old and I live on the central coast of NSW, Australia with my family. I enjoy writing, reading, acting, singing and directing. With my dramatic arts class I have written, directed, and starred in two original plays.

    2. When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book?

    I first began writing when I was 15. I wrote a lot of song lyrics as a way to get my thoughts down on paper. I then switched to writing fan-fiction at the age of 19. I finished my first book about September this year.

    3. How did you choose the genre you write in?

    I have always loved reading the paranormal/ urban fantasy/ YA fantasy fiction genres, so its only natural I began writing this genre, it chose me lol

    4. Where do you get your ideas?

    I get my ideas from anything I experience and my friends and family, but mostly  my ideas come from dreams.

    5. Do you ever experience writer’s block?

    Yes, I am currently having a little bit of writer’s block at the moment, mostly due to not plotting properly so I need to go and do that for my next few books.

    6. Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

    As a teenager I remember walking into my school library and searching through the YA books. I picked up Phillip Pullman’s The Subtle Knife and my love affair with YA fantasy fiction began. Cassandra Clare and Kathy Reichs also inspire me every day.

    7. Can you tell us the challenges in getting your first book published?

    The first real issue for me was money. As I am not particularly rich and a self published author, I found investing my own money into my first book quite taxing, so I hope it will be worth it in the end. Everything else has been a breeze.

    8. How do you market your work? What avenues have you found work best for your genre?

    As a self published indie author I feel marketing is the biggest challenge for us, but I have found social media is the biggest help in creating a platform and reaching my target audience- Facebook, twitter and blogs (I have read several eBooks on the topic and they said this was the best way) Also I am addicted to goodreads! I recommend that every author get a Goodreads account as you can add the books you want to read to shelves and keep up to date with upcoming releases and have people rate and review your work.

    9. Can you tell us about your upcoming book?

    The Chronicles of Fire and Ice is a New Adult urban fantasy set in Melbourne, Australia. It deals with the fact the human race is becoming over taken and out- bred by angels. It features Scarlett, a 21-year-old half Nephilim girl who finds out she is also half archangel and she has a frightening new ability to go along with it. She enrolls at an Academy for angels where she meets the handsome, yet mysterious Dyston Blackbell, the youngest son of the owners of the Academy, whom she discovers has been sending her weird dreams for years. Some of the story also deals with the backstory of Dyston’s dashing yet egotistic older brother, Lakyn.

    10. Is anything in your book based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?

    Some things in my book are from real life experiences, like some of Scarlett’s dreams, they actually happened to me. Some of my characters are based on my friends, certain qualities. Most of the fantasy parts are all from my imagination.

    11. What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?

    One of my favorite scenes that I loved writing was when Scarlett first met Dyston. I also loved writing Lakyn’s backstory. He is one of my favorite characters to write as he has two sides.

    12. How did you come up with the title?

    I came up with the title, The Chronicles of Fire and Ice a few ways. I wanted something catchy and unique (aspiring authors, I recommend googling possible titles to see if there are any similar already out there, or doing a goodreads search) and also I played around with the elements of my story and tried to fit them into the title. Some might say fire relates to Scarlett, and ice to Lakyn, yes they do, but the meanings run deeper than that.

    13. What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

    Probably the toughest and most offending compliment given to me was criticizing my marketing plan, saying social media isn’t good enough. They are not authors so I didn’t really listen. As for the best compliment… I get more beautiful messages and compliments about my book every day and it almost brings me to tears, it means a lot to me.

    14. Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

    Yes, believe in yourself and believe in your work. If you think negative thoughts then that will be reflected in your work and it will suffer.

    FUN QUESTIONS

     

    1)    If you were a superhero (or villain!) what would your power be? Would you wear a cape?

    I love superheroes! I think I would like to the ability to heal. And no cape for me.

    2)   Chocolate, Strawberry or Vanilla?

    Chocolate all the way. I am a self- confessed chocoholic!

    3)   The light side or the dark side?

    I love all things dark but I live on the light side

    4)   Do you have deep dark secret? How about a shallow grey one?

    Hmm had to think about this one… I have a crush on someone I shouldn’t.

    5)   What sort of coffee would you order? Simple coffee, complicated soy-non-fat-extra-espresso-half-caff-nightmare?

    My poison is a soy latte. And sometimes if I’m feeling like a sugar hit, I order a soy hazelnut latte.

    6)   Have you ever given someone who asked for decaf, regular coffee just to see what would happen?

    No because you can taste the difference. But I have given someone full cream milk when they have asked for skim.

    7)   Is there any food you refuse to eat? (Other than brussel sprouts because NO ONE likes them)

    Bananas!

    8)   If you could live off of chocolate would you? What kind?

    Totally! Chocoholic here! Dairy milk or the dark and nutty kind would suffice.

    9)   What do you think the coolest pet to have would be?

    I have always wanted a pet Panda.

    10)If you could visit any world (real or imagined) where would you go?

    Hmm, The House of Night school, or Narnia (before and after the white witch’s rein)

    11) What kind of person drives you nuts? (personality trait)

    Loud, obnoxious people, and smokers.

    12) Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards, or your slippers on, and when realizing it, just said screw it?

    All the time. And I’ve had to leave it until I could find a bathroom to fix it lol

    13) Do you prefer fuzzy or tub socks?

    Fuzzy but then my shoes don’t fit lol

    14) Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?

    No point because it’s a known fact that bed bugs love made beds.

    15) Be honest, how often do you wash your hair?

    Once a week, I have the worst frizz prone hair

    16) Do you get road rage? What pisses you off the most about other drivers?

    I don’t drive but I hate slow drivers and tail gaters

    17) Do you go out of your way to kill bugs? Are there any that make you screech and hide?

    Cockroaches, spiders and flies. I have a phobia of bees and wasps.

    Stalk me the following ways:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/LL-Hunter/110104129132865

    Blog: http://llhunter.blogspot.com.au

    Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/llhunter_angels

    Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6559537.L_L_Hunter

    Author Bio:

    I am an Australian author who began writing when I was fifteen or sixteen, originally song lyrics, but then moved onto fanfiction when I was nineteen. Having published over 20 stories online. One of which was nominated for an award. I have also written, directed and starred in two original plays entitled, “No Frills Airlines: Flight 123,” and the sequel, “No frills Airlines: Come Fly with Us.” The latter of which was a musical.


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    11. SOUND Group Read Week!



    SOUND (Solid #3) hits the shelves in just one short month!

    For everyone who's eager for a taste to what's to come, the previewers are sharing their thoughts on the ARC across the blogosphere this week; scroll down for all the bloggers who're weighing in!

    And, if you haven't visited TheSolidSeries.com this month, you might not have seen the teaser pieces I've posted, so I've also pasted the inside-cover description and the book's opening segment below.

    Finally, remember to check back on OCTOBER 25th, when I'll begin the main SOUND launch event, which is a week-long giveaway game!


     SOUND

     Clio Kaid's had one crazy summer.

    After learning she was one of a hundred teens who
    were genetically modified before birth, she and the
    others departed for "camp" at a classified military site.

    Besides discovering her own special ability, uncovering
    a conspiracy, and capturing a killer, she's also forged
    new friendships, found love, and managed to lose them both.

    With no answers and the end of summer closing in,
    Clio's terrified of going home more lost than when she arrived.

    Will she finally find everything she's been looking for?

    Find out in this exciting conclusion to the Solid trilogy.

    *          *          *          *          *          *

    SNEAK PEEK

    “Never thought it’d be you,” I growled, pushing back against her with all my strength.

    “I’m sorry; I can’t understand you with all that grunting,” Rae responded dismissively.

    “I said,” I got out, then had to catch another breath before continuing, “I always knew they might try to kill me” – another pause, another breath – “but I never thought you would.”

    “Aw, now you know what whining does,” she chided with a click of her tongue.

    I mumbled the routine response in synch with her triumphant, “Makes it worse.”

    *          *          *          *          *          *

    And now to see what the early readers think!

    0 Comments on SOUND Group Read Week! as of 10/1/2012 12:54:00 AM
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    12. Hitting the Road with SUPER! (Where I’ll be Fall 2012 edition!)

    SUPER is finally out in stores and to make sure you all buy at least three copies a piece (one to give, one to read, and one to enclose in a hermetically-sealed case for all time) I will be hitting the road this October and November!

    October 14th:  New York Comic Con - Panel Discussion and signing.

    October 18th: Anderson’s Bookshop, Naperville, IL

    October 19th: The Book Stall, Winnetka, IL

    October 20th: Illinois School Library Media Association 2012 Conference

    October 23rd: Harleysville Books, Harleysville, PA

    Nov. 4th: McNally Jackson Books w/ Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY

    Nov. 15th: RJ Julia Booksellers, Madison CT

    Keep checking this site because there are more appearances to come!


    0 Comments on Hitting the Road with SUPER! (Where I’ll be Fall 2012 edition!) as of 9/30/2012 4:00:00 PM
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    13. HITTING THE ROAD WITH GOATS EAT CANS!



    As the above graphic states so wonderfully, for the next couple months I'm hitting the road with my new book, Goats Eat Cans Volume 1, in a desperate attempt to sell some books! 

    That's right, it's carnival barker time, bitch. 

    NOTE I shouldn't type the word "bitch". I'm way to lame to pull it off. END NOTE 

    The tour is being spread into two sections - the first of which is being sponsored by The Virtual Book Tour Cafe and the second of which is being sponsored by my pals at The Literary Underground (basically a bunch of people I now owe favors). 

    Along the way I'll be doing guest posts, and giving away stuff, and working my ass off to convince you that $1.99 isn't too much to spend for three hundred pages of fart jokes and references to Kim Kardashian's posterior. Sometimes those things are one in the same. 

    The dates and links are listed below.


    Click HERE to visit the official Goats site.




    14. Big Fancy National Book Tour begins at home for Book #3

    This past Sunday I started doing appearances for “Isabella Girl on the Go.” A good little group at Kepler’s got “before anyone else” glimpse (okay, actually detailed reading, information and a song a dance!)



    It Officially came out yesterday!

    I also did three school visits and an in-store story time at Copperfield’s Books in Petaluma yesterday.

    This morning I am off to visit two schools on the Pennisula and stop in at Books, Inc. in Burlingame.

    Really busy, but I am taking lots of photos and have some great stories to tell. Hopefully this time you won’t have to wait a few years!

    Related posts:

    1. And so begins The BFBT (Big Fancy Book Tour)
    2. Isabella Girl on the Go – another Big Fancy National Book Tour
    3. Home Again, Home Again, Jiggety Jig

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    15. BFNBT #28 – Chi Car Go

    “Chicken in the car and the car won’t go – that’s how you spell Chi-Car-Go!”

    My Great Uncle Billy Boy would sing that song all the time. I have no idea where it came from. But I always think of it when I think of Chicago. Best info I can find on where this is from is here. Interesting.

    Anyway, next stop was Chicago. Home of Sourcebooks!

    This was the last city on BFNBT (Big Fancy National Book Tour #1 – for “My Name is Not Isabella”) and I was exhausted.

    After getting settled in a hotel, it was time to visit some schools! Lucky for me, I had a “media escort” or “handler” to move me around. Extra lucky for me, it was wonder publicist Kay* who is both awesome and wonderful.

    So she picked me up at the hotel and drove me off to the first school. On the way we passed:



    Pretty CO-Incidental, huh?

    So we were at McKenzie Elementary School.



    The presentation was in an auditorium and the kids were excellent listeners! Especially once Mr. Moroschan agreed to assist me onstage:



    After that morning session, there was a nice relaxing amount of time until the next visit. So wonder publicist Kay* and I chatted at a coffe shop (Starbucks and samples of some yummy new fall stuff while we lally-gagged). Then we went and ate lunch at a great little dinner. Then we walked back to the car to get to the next school. Plenty of time.

    On the walk, wonder publicist Kay* couldn’t find keys. We stopped and looked in all pockets and bags. We then realized it would either be an empty parking spot or embarrasing oversight we were heading back to. And the end result:

    Car still there!




    And luckily, we were on our way to the second school for the day!

    *Not her real name

    Related posts:

    1. BFNBT #15 – Coral Way Bilingual K-8 Center
    2. BFNBT #16 – Lehrman Day School
    3. BFNBT#20-Book Marked at the Beach

    16. BFNBT #26 – Biggest Barnes and Noble I have ever seen

    So I drove back through Boston (see my fancy art shot of the bridge):



    I had a morning story time at a Barnes & Noble. I think it was the biggest B&N I have ever seen (and I have seen a lot of them!)



    I did a few reads of “My Name is Not Isabella.” Folks with little ones kept showing up a little late. I completely get that and was glad to read again. My hope is that they will be doing lots of re-reading themselves at bedtime!

    I then signed a REALLY big stack of books (almost as tall as me):



    And they all got the best sticker on the outside!



    And I met a lovely and talented bookseller named Rebecca (I think she teaches third grade now!) It was a nice little stop.

    Related posts:

    1. BFBT Stop #2 – Barnes and Noble at El Cerrito (or It was a Dark and …..)
    2. Christmas gift idea- Isabella Paper Doll Set from Barnes & Noble
    3. BFNBT #16 – Lehrman Day School

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    17. BFNBT #25- Autumn on the Cape

    After inviting myself to a delicious homecook seafood dinner with my cuz and company (see, a second mention!), I left late and drove down to Cape Cod. I had stayed late chatting and it was a slightly longer drive than I anticipated, but all worth it and I would TOTALLY do that again if ever in the Boston area (hint hint).

    Anyway, I made it safely and the next morning I did a reading at Where the Sidewalk Ends


    It was rainy and after labor day on Cape Cod and attendance was not that great, but it was a really cute store.

    Here’s me with a pretty sign and a stack of books.



    Then I had a DELICIOUS seafood Chowder at a restaurant down the street that believes in magic and even says so:



    I believe too.

    Then I got busy a’visitin:

    I stopped by Eight Cousins



    And then things got really exciting: A ferry ride in great New England Autumn weather:

    Lovely Autumn weather on the Cape




    To get to the Cape:



    I stopped in at Bunch of Grapes (you know, the bookstore that President Obama visits on vacation).



    Here is one of the coolest clocks I’ve ever seen:
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    18. BFNBT#24-And on to work in Boston

    After such wonderful time with The Queen (and Poppi), it was time to get back to work. My parents really love me, but had no interest in seeing me at work. Yet. So off they went and I got back down to it.

    This is a sad post, as it is a stop at the Curious George Bookstore, which has since closed. It was a really cute store.

    Curious George Bookstore

    It was located right near HARVARD. This is the view from the parking garage. Look all acedemic, New England, autumny goodness.

    Lovely view from parking garage

    And I have to say, there is just something about being on/near a college campus. I feel all that energy, that potential. It is catching.

    Anyway, after finding my way (that was me, the dork walking with a Garmin GPS) to the store and finding my way around the construction to get into the store.

    Dream Big Sign outside of Curious George

    But the best part was when this crew walked down the stairs (one had to duck!).

    Curious George event with family

    This is my family. Cousins. Who live about 1.5 hours away. And saw my event on my Twitter feed. And came unannounced. And made my day.

    They are the kind of family that you see and no time has passed, and the conversation weaves around the past and the present and the future. Unspoken family traditions, remembered family events and unique family mannerisms just reinforce who you are and who you will always be.

    Thanks guys!

    Related posts:

    1. BFNBT #17 – Books and Books, Miami
    2. BFNBT #18 – Miami rest-a-bit or “cool other things I did”
    3. BFNBT #15 – Coral Way Bilingual K-8 Center

    19. BFNBT#22 – Must give props to Chik-Fil-A

    We eat fast food. (Bad Mommy)
    We do not have Chik Fil A on the west coast.
    I must stop and say that it seemed that the food choices were pretty good….
    and…
    instead of a plastic toy, their kids meals came with a little BOOK! Awesome

    Chik Fil A Kid's meal

    I had to get one for myself. I got, “If You Give a Cat a Cupcake.” Good stuff all around.

    Related posts:

    1. BFNBT #18 – Miami rest-a-bit or “cool other things I did”
    2. BFNBT#20-Book Marked at the Beach
    3. BFNBT #15 – Coral Way Bilingual K-8 Center

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    20. BFNBT#21 – Batmobile and Me

    Me with The Batmobile

    Also in Jacksonville Beach Florida.
    Need I say more?

    Related posts:

    1. BFNBT#19 – Jacksonville Airport
    2. BFNBT#20-Book Marked at the Beach
    3. BFNBT #18 – Miami rest-a-bit or “cool other things I did”

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    21. BFNBT#20-Book Marked at the Beach

    I was just recently in New Orleans for the ABA Winter Institute #7, promoting my new upcoming book – “Isabella, Girl on the Go.” Lots to tell you about that trip, but still sharing all the great stuff from tour #1. Eek, third tour starts in about a month. I better get crackin’. So remember, it is back in the fall of 2011…..I just landed in the Jacksonville, Florida airport…..

    Next it was out to The Book Mark.

    um...this was the address on my schedule

    Talk at the Book Mark

    With Rona at the Book Mark

    Beach Time

    It’s a rough job, but someone’s got to do it.

    Related posts:

    1. BFNBT #18 – Miami rest-a-bit or “cool other things I did”
    2. BFNBT#19 – Jacksonville Airport
    3. BFNBT Stop #14 – Florida, Baby

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    22. Paranormal Turkey Tour


     



    Let's Talk Turkey! Or, better yet, let's let Emlyn Chand talk turkey
    because eating all those leftovers really tired me out ;)

    Ah yes, Thanksgiving. Nothing says the holidays like sitting around a fully decked out dining room table with mouthwatering temptations waiting to be gobbled up. Everyone waits anxiously for the big reveal… the turkey!

    Lovingly prepared since early that morning, the turkey is brought out in a covered, silver serving platter. Aunt Edith smacks little Tommy’s hand as he attempts to steal a candied yam dripping with marshmallow. The collective breath is held as the silver cover is removed… revealing… a zombie turkey!

    What—what? That’s right folks, this year, we are celebrating this American holiday paranormal style. And what says paranormal holiday better than a walking, talking zombie turkey? This zombie turkey brings you important tidings of great prizes that shall be for all people… who participate and win of course. November 25-27 you could win up to $200 in prizes!

    Three days. Four YA paranormal books. Five chances to win!

    And who are these crazy paranormal authors? Check them out. It’s like the
    Nightmare Before Christmas
    , Thanksgiving style!


    Emlyn Chand, Author of Farsighted
    “Psychic or not, you’ll never see the end for this one coming! Emlyn Chand is pioneering ‘the next big thing’ for YA.” ~ Emily Reese, author of Second Death
    Alex Kosmitoras may be blind, but he can still “see” things others can’t. When his unwanted visions of the future begin to suggest that the girl he likes could be in danger, he has no choice but to take on destiny and demand it reconsider.
    Monster Mash: Emlyn says… I. AM. WEREWOLF! And why’s that you ask? First off, my name (Chand) literally means moon in Sanskrit. Next, werewolves are super cool–we can blend in with common folk, and then out of nowhere, kapow! I’m a werewolf, and I sure am hungry. Lastly, Team Jacob 100%. Now excuse me while I cock back my head and howl at my namesake.


    Patti Larsen, Author of Family Magic
    “Patti Larsen is truly gifted because I read Family Magic cover to cover and I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for the next installment!” ~  from Goodreads review
    0 Comments on Paranormal Turkey Tour as of 11/25/2011 6:05:00 AM
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    23. BFNBT #17 – Books and Books, Miami

    So while I was in Miami on my first Big Fancy National Book Tour, back in September 2010 (can’t believe that was more than a year ago!) I went to a couple of wonderful schools. Then I went to the wonderful book store that was hosting me. I had a late evening event at the Books and Books at the Bal Harbour store.

    Now going in I was a little nervous. This is a fancy mall, fancy store, late night event for a children’s book in the rain….

    But I should NEVER have worried. What a wonderful place. First, I met Debra at Books and Books. She was so nice, I could have talked her ear off for hours. Here she is kidding around out front with me…

    Books and Books with Debra

    Books and Books with Debra


    But there was work to be done. It was an evening event with Arts for Learning. And Debra’s mother = teacher of teachers. And she “encouraged” her students to come to the event.

    Books and Books event with Arts for Learning

    Books and Books event with Arts for Learning

    This equaled a big room of teachers. I had spoken to a room full of teacher types back at Hicklebees, but I got five minutes. So I was a little nervous as I bobbed and weaved together different material to talk about how the book came to be, how I use it, and why I am just ultra cool. Luckily, they had a good time. I had a legitimate line of folks waiting for signatures. I felt like a rock star!

    Oh, and Alexander hand sold a book to a walk-in while I was talking.

    Then, after all the customers left, I still had books to sign for the school visits.

    Books to sign at Books and Books

    Holy Books Batman!

    It was a great time and I left feeling very, very loved.

    Related posts:

    1. BFNBT #15 – Coral Way Bilingual K-8 Center
    2. BFNBT Stop #14 – Florida, Baby
    3. BFNBT #16 – Lehrman Day School

    24. The Once and Future Podcast

    Anton Strout is an old friend of mine,as well as being “America’s favorite lower mid-list urban fantasy author” (his words), AND the host of The Once and Future Podcast.

    Anton invited on this week’s podcast episode to talk about my new book, comics and geekdom in general (and how roleplaying games can lead to a career in publishing!) It was a fun talk!

    Follow the link and give a listen or subscribe on iTunes!


    0 Comments on The Once and Future Podcast as of 1/1/1900
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    25. BFNBT #15 – Coral Way Bilingual K-8 Center

    Stop #1: Coral Way Bilingual Center
    I arrived (arrived – past tense, remember, time machine) bright and early at this wonderful school. Parking was a challenge, they seemed very strict about the “staff only” parking. After two times around the block looking for street parking, I gave up and parked in the lot. I asked some staff walking in if it was okay and after I introduced myself, they guided me to the Vice Principal’s space. Luckily, the Vice Principal was going to be out that day. Or so they told me.

    I went inside and met my lovely host, Cristina. School was just starting and the office was crazy. From experience, this is true in 122% of schools. I was way too nervous to try any of my Spanish, but boy was I itching to try. But I didn’t (they would have laughed for sure at my lovely Gringa accent). After things settled down, I was taken to the cafetorium (for those of you that don’t know, this is a large “Multi-purpose-room” that serves as cafeteria, gymnasium, and auditorium. Truly a money saving concept, but it doesn’t sound like an appetizing place for a meal. But there was a stage, a microphone and a room full of first and second grade children, so I was all set.

    My lovely host, Cristina agreed to take photos of the performance.

    Here’s a great shot of me talking to some front row kids as we waited to get started.

    Great angle!


    Then we got going, and they were an engaged, attentive, involved, impressive and a lot of other wonderful vowel-letter adjectives audience. Here they are after I asked a question.

    Attentive students at presentation


    And then I didn’t have enough hands to hold microphone and read the book – so I asked for a volunteer microphone stand:

    Human Microphone Stand


    Then we got to the “Vana White” section of the talk. This is where I walk across the stage and show everyone the beautiful art in “My Name is Not Isabella.”

    school visit the vanna stage


    We finished the performance with volunteers to hold “The Adjective Flags:”
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