Reviews that originally appeared in the 
April 2006 issue of the now-gone The Edge of the Forest.
George vs. George: The American Revolution As Seen from Both Sides
By Rosalyn Schanzer
Publisher: National Geographic Children's Books (October 1, 2004)
ISBN: 0792273494
George Washington, Spymaster: How the Americans Outspied the British and Won the Revolutionary War
By Thomas B. Allen
Publisher: National Geographic Children's Books (January 1, 2004)
ISBN: 0792251261
Originally appeared at The Edge of the Forest.
The American Revolution is brought to life in two books that use a similar device. On the surface, both George v. George and George Washington, Spymaster are about George Washington; but both are about more than the man.
George v. George compares the two most visible people on each side of the war, both named George: the American George Washington and the English King George III. Schanzer initially focuses on these two individuals, but then expands to compare the American and British views on everything from politics to methods of war. The approach results in a balanced view of the American Revolution, explaining such things as the structure of Colonial government and taxation. Particularly impressive to this American is how Schanzer conveys how the British viewed the American guerilla warfare as dishonorable.
In any conflict, there are two sides to a story. Books that show historical events from one side, painting the other as "them" and "wrong," can lead a child to wonder at how stupid those "others" were to not agree with "us." Schanzer, by providing balance in the arguments, is not looking to persuade the reader to agree with either George; rather, by providing the point of view of the "other," she allows the reader to see the war from a different point of view. This is about understanding another's position.
The color illustrations are reminiscent of 18th century political cartoons; so while original to the text, they convey a time period appropriate feel. At the same time, there is a modern, kid-friendly feel.
As the title indicates, George Washington, Spymaster, uses George Washington to highlight the value of information in war. This isn't a book about the life of George
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By: Lizzy Burns,
on 5/28/2010
Blog: A Chair, A Fireplace and A Tea Cozy (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: National Geographic, rosalyn schanzer, thomas b allen, reviews, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
By: Lizzy Burns,
on 5/24/2010
Blog: A Chair, A Fireplace and A Tea Cozy (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: movie reviews, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
My review of the film The Thief Lord
I was surprised to learn that the film version of Cornelia Funke's book The Thief Lord
had been released straight to DVD. This is usually a sign that the movie stinks. The Thief Lord remains my favorite of Funke's books, so it was with no small amount of fear that I sat down to watch the DVD.
It helped that it's been over two years since I read The Thief Lord, so I had few instances of "that wasn't in the book" or "how could they have left out such and such."
My first thought was relief; the young actors playing Prosper, Bo, the Thief Lord and the other children are perfect. The movie was filmed on location in Venice, and the city, with its mix of old and new and with hints of magic everywhere, was beautifully captured. Readers who loved the book will enjoy this film; and viewers who didn't read the book will have no problem following the story.
The film captures the essence of the book: Brothers Prosper and Bo escape the selfish aunt and uncle who send Prosper to an orphanage while keeping the adorable younger brother. Once in Venice, the boys are happy to be together but have run out of money. Luckily for them, they meet the mysterious Thief Lord, Scipio, who looks after them along with several other homeless children. The Thief Lord is infamous, and has been hired to steal a valuable object; the reward would keep his adopted family safe. But the boys' aunt and uncle are hot on their tale and Venice is no longer safe.
In the book, magical realism didn't appear until the end; in the movie, from the start Bo sees things that others don't, letting the viewer know that this isn't just another runaway movie. For the most part, the special effects worked well; but, particularly towards the end, there were a few things that fell flat. (Having adult voices come out of children's sized bodies, for example; and Scipio's horrible hair in the final scenes.) It was also funny how things on the page fell a wee bit flat on the book; the first time The Thief Lord is addressed as "Scip" it sounds like "Skip" the ultimate preppy name. It makes the Thief Lord look silly, rather than cool.
The other children – Hornet, Riccio, and Mosca – were great, but because of the time limitations of film their characters were not fully developed. I was most disappointed in Hornet, or rather, the lack of screen time for Hornet. There are books around, and we do see Hornet reading a book (which IMDB says is Funke's own Inkheart!) but I think more could have been done to show Hornet and her books. And the movie reveals to the viewer Scipio's dual identity sooner t
By: Lizzy Burns,
on 5/23/2010
Blog: A Chair, A Fireplace and A Tea Cozy (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: interviews, The Edge of the Forest, kirby larson, Add a tag
This interivew with Kirby Larson, author of Hattie Big Sky, originally ran in the March 2007 issue of the now-gone The Edge of the Forest.
Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson is a story of dreams, survival, and hope; 16 year old Hattie Brooks is an orphan who at sixteen discovers that an unknown uncle has left her his homestead in Montana. It's 1918, and this is no Cinderella story. Hattie has to work hard to "prove up" the land in order to keep it. This book is both a straightforward story of a pioneer; it's also a look at family, as Hattie befriends her neighbors and at prejudice, as anti German sentiment turns to violence.
When I sat in the audience and heard Hattie Big Sky named as a 2007 Newbery Honor book; I jumped out of my seat. Hattie Big Sky is in some ways a perfect book: it works with almost any audience; it has a lot going on; and Hattie as a character stays with you long after the last page. I was also excited because a couple of days before I had met Kirby for the first time in person, and we had chatted over coffee at a Starbucks in Seattle. One of the things we discussed was attending the Youth Media Awards Press Conference, when all the winners and honor books are announced. Kirby also agreed to do an email interview for The Edge of the Forest.
Normally, an email interview is easier than a "real life" interview because you don't have to worry about traveling or time zones or things like that. Kirby lives outside of Seattle, I live in New Jersey. However, Kirby Larson is one busy lady! In addition to visiting Louisiana, she'd also been to a book festival in Missouri and was then heading out to New Zealand.
Sit back; enjoy your cup of tea (or coffee or hot cider, just please, don't spill on your keyboard); and get to know Kirby and Hattie a little bit better.
Liz: Hattie Big Sky, a work of fiction, was inspired by the story of your step great grandmother, Hattie Inez Brooks Wright. At what point did you realize that you were going to take Hattie's story and make it into a book?
Kirby: My great-grandmother was about 4'11" and 85 pounds. When I realized that she had indeed successfully proved up on a claim, I knew I had to tell that story. Unfortunately, our family knew very little about her experience-- just that she had homesteaded near Vida, Montana and that she had proved up. It was shortly after learning about her homesteading experience that I knew I had to write this story.
Liz: Did you ever have any conflict as a writer between what was "true" about the real Hattie's story and what was needed to write a work of fiction?
Kirby: Because I had so little information about my great-grandmother's experience on the prairie, I was not constrained in any way by what "really happened." I don't know what "really happened" to Hattie Inez Brooks. But, because of my years of research, I do know what happened to many other homesteaders and I was able to weave these stories into a satisfying adventure in HATTIE BIG SKY.
Liz: Hattie Big Sky was named a Newbery Honor Book. How has your life changed now that that you have the silver medal on your book?
Kirby: The biggest change is in the number of emails I get every day! Honestly, I feel like the same writer as ever, working to write the best story I can.
Liz
By: Lizzy Burns,
on 5/25/2009
Blog: A Chair, A Fireplace and A Tea Cozy (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: reviews, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
Being Bindy
Bindy and Janey have been best friends forever; and as far as Bindy is concerned, it's going to stay that way forever. Why should eighth grade change anything? But it does.
Bindy cannot understand why Janey suddenly wants to sit with Hannah during lunch. She thinks it's boring. And when Bindy visits Janey's house for their weekly sleepover, she's surprised (and not in a good way) that Janey has invited Hannah over, and the three girls are going to the movies. What Bindy has on just won't do, so before she knows it she's got makeup layered on her face and is wearing a skirt that is way too short. The night ends in a disaster, with Bindy calling her father to pick her up and Janey furious. Bindy thinks that losing her best friend is as bad as it can get; but it gets worse. Bindy farts in gym class and becomes the school laughing stock and to top it all off, Bindy's father has begun dating Janey's mother.
Bindy is experiencing the worst. year. ever. Yet she manages to get by. For one thing, while Bindy may not be as "grown up" as Janey and her new group of friends, Bindy doesn't care. When things began going bad at the movies, she had no qualms about calling her father to take her home. She's not going to change her looks or her clothes; she's not going to pretend to like different TV shows. She doesn't think that Janey's new behavior, which includes making out with boys and drinking, is cool. Bindy thinks she's alone; but she's not. Her brother, who she thought of as the guy who disappears into his room to play computer games, turns out to be an ally. And she discovers that not everyone at school sees Janey and her new friends as the A List.
Being Bindy has a refreshing family dynamic that is neither too perfect nor overly dramatic. Bindy and her brother Kyle don't have a perfect relationship; but they do have a realistic one, and both grow up just enough to appreciate each other. Bindy's parents are divorced, and she lives with her Dad. Her mother is self involved and selfish. Mom is annoying; and Bindy gets annoyed at her; but Mom is refreshingly honest in knowing her own flaws and doing the best that she knows how. There is a wonderful scene when Bindy realizes that not only is Mom paying child support; she is also paying alimony; and that without that money, her father wouldn’t be able to pay the bills. The realization hits her that her father, who is living his dream job but isn't financially responsible for himself or for his children, is in this way just as selfish as her mother, who prefers parenting on weekends.
Bindy is young; but eighth graders are young. As she faces all the things that can make school horrible, she grows stronger but is not forced to grow older. This is not a book where Bindy discovers that makeup is fun and wow, Janey's right; it is fun to date boys. Rather, Bindy grows up, by seeing the flaws in others and accepting them and loving them despite the flaws. She finds a place for herself by being herself – by being Bindy.
This book is by an Australian writer, so contains some words that readers may not understand at first. The Australian slang is part of the charm of the book, and it's easy to figure out that "bagging out Dad" meant saying mean things about Dad. And while I'm saying "eighth grade" and the book jacket says eighth grade, rest assured that Bindy and company refer to it as Grade 8.
Originally appeared in the May 2006 issue of The Edge of the Forest.
© Elizabeth Burns of A Chair, A Fireplace & A Tea Cozy
By: The Class of 2k8,
on 6/23/2008
Blog: 2k8: Class Notes (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, ALAN, Teens Read Too, Julie M. Prince, Book Reviewer Hot Seat, YA Books Central, Add a tag
We are sooo excited to kick off our mega week of book reviewer interviews with the wonderful Julie M. Prince! And..AND we will be giving away A CURSE DARK AS GOLD by Elizabeth C. Bunce! All you have to do is leave a comment and you'll be entered. Deadline to enter is midnight June 29th, winners will be announced on Monday June 30th. Okay, now let's get quickly acquainted with our very first book reviewer!
What’s your handle (alias)? I don’t have one, which makes me feel awfully boring all of a sudden. Maybe I should make one up right now. Um. Yeah. Any suggestions?
What kind of books do you review? I review picture books, middle grade, and young adult (fiction and nonfiction).
Approx # of books reviewed? 54 so far this year, with another 84 in my queue. Yikes!
Where can we find your reviews? ALAN Online , Teens Read Too, YA (& Kids) Books Central, The Edge of the Forest , and my blog, “Off to Turn Another Page.”
Reading turn-ons: I love humorous middle grades and witty, sarcastic YAs.
Reading turn-offs: I’m not big on science fiction or high fantasy, although I’ve been known to enjoy both types of books on occasion.
Class of 2K8 books that you’ve had the opportunity to review:
Oh boy. Let’s see:
A Curse Dark as Gold – and here
The Opposite of Invisible
Alive and Well in Prague, New York
I Heart You, You Haunt Me – and here
The Gollywhopper Games
The Magic Thief
I hope I didn’t miss any. Most of the time, I only review a book once, but if an editor needs a particular book reviewed and I’ve read it, I’ll volunteer to write a second review…especially if it’s a book I enjoyed and want to share with as many readers as possible.
I have four more 2k8 books in my possession (and one on the way), but I won’t tell which ones.
Oh, you could just whisper it, couldn't you? No? Okay, moving on... we love the crazy handles (alias) book reviewers come up with—tell us how you came up with yours!
Okay, now the handle thing is really starting to bug me. Seriously. Any suggestions?
Ask and you shall receive! For the reviewer formerly known as Prince, we've come up with several! Naturally with your blog being Off to Turn Another Page--the name Paige Turner was brought up (however we believe it is already in use, probably by several people!), other possibilities included Read Eyes & Over Booked--since you are clearly very busy! And last but not least (and my personal favorite!)--Miss Prints!
Okay, fun time over, back to the hot seat Miss Prints, how did you get into book reviewing ?
I was asked if I’d like to write some reviews for ALAN online (The Assembly on Literature for Adolescents). I loved the thought of reviewing books, but I’d never done it. This reasoning was soon squashed by the words, “neither had I, until I did it.” Good point, David. As soon as I got my first batch of books, I knew I was hooked on reviewing. What better job is there than one that pays in books?!
Describe your grading system and how that translates to the reader?
Since I review for several sites, my grading system adapts accordingly.
How do you pick the books you review? Or are they picked for you? Do you ever read books that wouldn’t normally interest you—and if so have you ever been surprised by what you’ve read?
Some are sent to me by the editors of the sites I review for, some are sent by publishers, some I purchase or request directly from the publisher myself because I’ve heard of them and they sound so fabulous I can’t resist.
I absolutely read books that wouldn’t normally interest me because I’ve stopped reading jacket flaps and blurbs. I don’t have any idea what most of the books I read are going to be about until I open them and start reading. I get a lot of surprises that way. I like surprises.
We like surprises too! Especially learning about new books. What are the best ways to find new books? Any advice for authors about getting their book noticed by reviewers?
Right now, the internet is our friend, I think. There are so many sites and blogs that review and recommend great books. There’s certainly nothing wrong with the old-fashioned way, either…browsing the bookstore to see what looks interesting. When my family and I go within 500 yards of a bookstore, Hubby always says, “Go ahead. I’ll find you in the kids section later.” I personally believe that a web presence is important in getting your books noticed, but if you’re an author reading this, you probably already know that.
Yep, we sure do! Okay, so what happens if you really aren’t feeling a book—will you make the ultimate sacrifice and finish it for the sake of the review?
Not very often. There are just too many books waiting that I know I’d enjoy. In the past two weeks, I’ve put down two books that I couldn’t get into. Right now, I’m reading one that’s “okay,” but I’m willing to keep reading this one because I was specifically asked for a review of it by an editor. Sorry, now I have all the authors wondering, “is it mine?”
Hey, you're supposed to be in the hot seat, not us! LOL. Let's move on to better stuff--if you really love a book—will you read it again? If so—what are some of the books you just had to read more than once?
I rarely re-read books. I mentioned that I like the element of surprise, and if I’ve read a book, that surprise factor is gone. I’m sure I’d enjoy them again, but I’m more likely to pass a good book on to a friend I know would enjoy it than to let it gather dust until I get around to reading it again. I guess we all love books in different ways, and I love good books by sharing them and getting the word out about them. Having said that, there are some books (like all of L.M. Montgomery’s) that I have re-read many times.
Do you have a basic philosophy on what should be included in a review—or does it depend on the book itself?
I like to include a little bit of summary and then tell what I liked about a book, or what I thought was missing. I mix up the order a lot, and I try to keep my reviews fairly brief, because I think people trying to find a book are more likely to really read (not just skim) short reviews.
Tell us about the last time your jaw dropped open, you laughed, or you cried while reading a book.
It happens a lot, actually. If a book can make me either laugh or cry hysterically, that book is guaranteed a great review. If it brings out that kind of strong reaction and emotion, the author has gone above and beyond.
Is there any character in a book that you wish would come to life? Or any place you wish existed?
I wouldn’t mind hanging out with the Penderwick sisters or Emily of New Moon. I’d like to stay at the Hopewell Hotel, and I think a visit to Hogwarts would rock my world!
We think Hogwarts will be a popular answer this week, LOL! What books do you find yourself recommending over and over and why?
I love Elizabeth Bunce’s A CURSE DARK AS GOLD, because it’s so unique and the writing is extraordinary. I fell in love with THE MAGIC THIEF because I know kids will adore it, and I want to help readers connect with the book. Same with THE DISREPUTABLE HISTORY OF FRANKIE LANDEAU-BANKS. That one has an audience out there of some really brilliant and opinionated teenagers who are going to (and already do) love the book. I want to get it into the hands of as many people as possible. Then there are books I just want to talk to people about, like BEFORE GREEN GABLES. I want to hold a worldwide book club meeting about that book so I can find out what all the L.M. Montgomery fans think of it. There’s Coe Booth’s TYRELL, and Jeannine Garsee’s BEFORE, AFTER, AND SOMEBODY IN BETWEEN, both of which I think are excellent examples of real teens in the real world dealing with real issues. I love real as much as I love escapism in books. I think both are important to have available. I could go on and on, but I’m probably boring you.
Ha ha, not even close... go on... please...
crickets: (chirp chirp)
Ok, now for the Extra Scandalous Question—Really bad reviews—do you ever fear giving them? Ever had an author get upset with you? (It’s okay—you can tell us, just don’t name names!) And what advice do you have for authors who get a bad review?
I knew you were going to ask this, and I dreaded it. *sigh*
I hate giving bad reviews. It’s like taking foul medicine or drinking spoiled milk. It just leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
For the most part, the sites I review for are about connecting books and readers. They don’t like to post negative reviews because tastes vary so widely.
However, it sometimes happens that I’ve been specifically asked to write a review and I won’t shy away from being honest with readers if I don’t like a book. What kind of credibility would I have if I just handed out “good” reviews about every single book I read?
True, but we'd still love you! So, any advice for authors who get a bad review?
I don’t think authors need the advice, because if they’re in this business to begin with, they know all about subjectivity (or they should).
I think it helps to keep in mind that old adage “any press is good press.” If people are out and they pick up your book because they remember reading about it, that’s a good thing. Many people just skim reviews (as much as my ego would like to believe otherwise). “Real” readers don’t dissect and analyze reviews the way authors do. They just want to find a book to read.
Thanks for all the great answers! One last question: if they aren’t scared off by all that bad review talk and an author would like you to review her book, what should she do?
1) Keep in mind that it may be a very long time before I can get to the book. I do try to coordinate my reviews with release dates, but sometimes it doesn’t happen. I don’t read books in order of receipt. I often read strategically for projects that I’m involved in (articles I’m writing or authors I’m interviewing for other publications, etc).
2) I don’t guarantee that I’ll review every book I receive, nor do I guarantee that every review I do write will be good. Ouch. It bothers me to even write that, but it’s true, and authors should know up front.
3) If all of the above sounds dandy to you, please feel free to contact me. You can find review links and my contact information over at: http://www.juliemprince.com/.Thanks so much for interviewing me. The Class of 2k8 is full of talented and creative people, and I’m proud to have participated. This was fun!
Thank you! And don't forget to leave a comment to win A Curse As Dark As Gold!
"Every word counts in this amazing book. The language, while assuredly stunning and appealing, is never frivolous. It's hard to believe this is a debut novel, and I eagerly await whatever Ms. Bunce wishes to put in front of me next, as it's sure to be delightful and satisfying if it's near the quality of A CURSE DARK AS GOLD." Julie M. Prince
(Click here for more great Hot Seat Interviews)
By: Gail Gauthier,
on 6/21/2008
Blog: Original Content (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
Even if this month's The Edge of the Forest didn't include an interview with a near and dear blogging author, I would think it was a stellar issue. I particularly liked the article on vampire books. Notice the recommendation for Little Vampire by Joan Sfar. The publisher describes it as being for 9 to 12-year-olds, but it sounds as if younger readers would enjoy it, too. I'm also interested in Carpe Jugulum by Terry Pratchett, which would be for a much older crowd.
I also like the articles TEOTF does on what kids are actually reading. Check out Kid Picks and Teen Picks.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 6/20/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: Poetry Friday, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
I have two short entries for this week's Poetry Friday, both from the June Edge of the Forest.
First up, the first three lines from an original poem contributed to the Forest by J. Patrick Lewis:
I Was Your Teacher Once
I was your teacher once.
You may remember me.
I am the chalk dust of memory.
....
You can read the entire poem here. I'm a teacher, I'm from a family of teachers--this poem speaks to me. Thank you for sharing it with the Forest, J.Patrick Lewis!
Next up, two lines from the Dar Williams interview with Carrie Jones. Dar Williams says, "Almost universally, my problems have come from giving the wrong people too much power and not giving myself enough. " Poetry in prose, that is.
Okay, now here's the scoop on the June issue:
- An interview with singer-songwriter—and author of Middle Grade fiction—Dar Williams, by YA author Carrie Jones.
- Poet J. Patrick Lewis graces The Edge of the Forest with a bittersweet original poem.
- Sarah Stevenson (a.fortis) and TadMack (Tanita S. Davis) talk vampires in Fiction with Fangs.
- Not one, but two Summer Reading features: Julie M. Prince takes reading to the pool and Sarah Mulhern suggests summertime reading for kids of all ages.
- Gail Gauthier is this month's Blogging Writer.
- We have three great columns this month: Candice Ransom considers The Long Summer for A Backward Glance, teacher Stacy Dillon gives us her students' picks for Kid Picks, and Little Willow tells us What's in Teens' Backpacks this summer.
- Reviews in all categories—from Picture book to Young Adult.
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As always, please feel free to lift The Edge of the Forest announcement for your own blogs.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 6/19/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: Poetry Friday, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
The amazing June The Edge of the Forest will finally be up tomorrow around noon CST. This issue is also tied to my Poetry Friday post, as the issue has a poetry surprise in it.
So, in the meantime, head on over to Semicolon for the roundup. I'll be back here shortly.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 6/9/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, out and about in the kidlitosphere, Add a tag
Don't miss Bookworms' Reviews: children's books reviewed by (gasp!) kids! Mom Chris is the features editor for The Edge of the Forest and a member of my Far Flung Writers critique group. I'm hoping at least one of my kids will big up and write for the blog too.
Speaking of The Edge of the Forest--the fantastic June issue (with a Dar Williams interview by Carrie Jones) will be up Wednesday around 5pm CST.
I've been tagged for a great summer goals meme by the great Jen Robinson. Last week was a total wash for me, though, so I'm going to wait until Friday to respond. I'm still making my goals!
Remember the pay-for-blog-tour issue that came up earlier this week? A great discussion is still going on in the comments here, at Colleen's, and at Kelly Fineman's place.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 5/6/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
The May Edge of the Forest will be up on Friday. Here's a preview of what's in the issue:
- An interview with Brandon Mull, by Becky Laney
- An interview with Elizabeth C. Bunce, by Julie M. Prince
- Prom books with Little Willow
- Our blogging writer is none other than Linda Urban (also interviewed by Julie) who just won a Cybil in the Middle Grade fiction category for A Crooked Kind of Perfect
- Candice Ransom's fabulous A Backward Glance column
And in June? We'll be featuring an interview by Carrie Jones with Dar Williams!
Speaking of June...If you have a great feature or column idea (A Day in the Life, In the Backpacks, Kid Picks), please do let me know. For feature pieces, I'd welcome short articles on summer books, beach books, books for summer vacation. I'm up for anything! Just send me an e-mail and we'll talk.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 4/9/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: call for submissions, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
Now that the new Edge of the Forest is up, I'm soliciting pieces for the May and June issues of The Edge of the Forest. (Note: The Edge of the Forest is a "venture of the heart" if you know what I mean.)
Here's what I'm looking for:
Feature Articles. Here are some recent examples of feature pieces: Candice Ransom's Fairytale in the Forest, Little Willow's I Think YA Is Great!, Kelly Fineman's The Graphic Novel: Gateway to a New World. These pieces are all very different: The first is on an admired illustrator from a writer's perspective; the second is a lively defense of Young Adult fiction; and the third is a look at graphic novels and the publishing industry. Do you have a great (or crazy) idea? Send me an e-mail!
Columns: Do you want to talk to kids about their favorite books? Then consider writing a Kid Picks column. Do you know a teacher or librarian with an eye for what their children are reading? Then think of an In their Backpacks column. Is there a writer or illustrator you'd like to interview about their work? Then think of A Day in the Life.
Interviews: Are you a Dar Williams fan? Then I have an opportunity for you! Send me an e-mail. Interview snagged. It's going to be a good one!
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Thanks to the multi-talented Tadmack for the image.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 3/6/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: Picture Books, The Edge of the Forest, Book Buds, Barbara Park, Barbara Park, Add a tag
I have a review of Barbara Park's funny new picture book--Ma! There's Nothing to Do Here!--up over at Book Buds today. It's the perfect book for any toddler expecting a new sibling.
And, yes, The Edge of the Forest was down the past 24 hours. The server got hit, but everything's been restored and is running smoothly again.
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And, re: yesterday's OT post: Uber-fierce! This is the first time I've ever called Project Runway. (My favorites were Kara Saun, Santino, and Laura in seasons 1, 2, and 3 respectively, so, yeah, my track record was pathetic. But, now. I'm 1 for 4.)
By: Lizzy Burns,
on 3/1/2008
Blog: A Chair, A Fireplace and A Tea Cozy (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, TEOTF, Add a tag
Now, for your reading pleasure this lovely weekend: The Edge of the Forest:: February, 2008
So, why are you still here? Go, go! And tell me your favorite article.
I like A Backward Glance by Candice Ransom, even tho I was never a Trixie Belden girl myself (Nancy Drew and Happy Hollisters and Cherry Ames for me.)
But there's also Christine's interview with P.J. Hoover. Surprisingly, there is no T.J. Hooker reference. Uma.... Oprah... PJ.... TJ. OK, it's a pop culture reference that makes sense in my head.
But I think it's Little Willow's bit on YA Lit that makes me smile. If I had a million dollars, on my "to do" list would be to get LW a membership in YALSA and get that girl on the BBYA committee.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 2/29/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
With 29 minutes to spare, I am pleased to announce that the February The Edge of the Forest is up. I am so sorry for the delay. I can only blame, well, February.
In any case, it's a fantastic issue with a lot of great content. In short, here's what's in store this month:
- An interview with Eric Rohmann, by Julie M. Prince
- A hearty defense of YA Literature, by Little Willow
- Graphic Novels: A Gateway to a New World, by Kelly Fineman
- A profile of illustrator Sylvia Long, by Kris Bordessa
- A fantastic new column called A Backward Glance, by writer Candice Ransom
- P.J. Hoover is this month's Blogging Writer, interviewed by Christine Marciniak
- Reviews in all categories—from Picture book to Young Adult.
The Edge of the Forest will return the third week of March.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 2/26/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
Some of you may have noticed that The Edge of the Forest, February, is delayed. It will be up soon. So soon, in fact, that it will still be a February issue.
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Speaking of the Forest, if you are interested in reviewing for the April, May, and June issues and would like review copies, I'll be doing a mailing on Monday, March 24. If you'd like me to send you some books, then drop me an e-mail in the next week or two. (If you're a regular reviewer, please send me a reminder e-mail!)
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Speaking of February. I just listened to an wonderful book--Tree of Smoke, by Denis Johnson. Highly recommended for you fans of "literary" fiction. One caveat: Save it for spring or summer. At the end of February of The Longest Winter Ever (TM), I have about one serotonin left and am mainlining chocolate. A long novel, no matter how beautifully written, on the Vietnam War was maybe not the wisest choice ever. I am moving on to The Monsters of Templeton which promises to be Gothic fun. And, let's face it: Fun is what I need right now. And, oh yeah, sun.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 1/29/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: blogging writers, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
Do you have a favorite writer who blogs? Would you be interested in interviewing her/him/them (think: Disco Mermaids) for The Edge of the Forest?
If so, we're looking for a few Blogging Writer interviews. Just drop me a line if you have an interview idea.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 1/23/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, out and about in the kidlitosphere, Esme Raji Codell, Shelf Elf, Nick Green, Kids Love Comics, Josh Elder, a roar for powerful words, Add a tag
Hi, Everyone. I'm having an unexpectedly busy week (the FLU hit here in Smalltown, and not one member of the family escaped unharmed), but I thought I'd check in with a few items of note:
First of all, thanks to all of you who have written in about The Edge of the Forest submissions. I have set aside a few hours tomorrow for planning and I'll get back to you right away.
In a first, my day life collides with my blogging life. Graphic Novelist Josh Elder (whose Mail Order Ninja I reviewed here) is visiting and will be giving a writer's talk tomorrow night. Over dinner he told me about...
Kids Love Comics! Maybe you all know about Kids Love Comics! and I just missed the boat somehow. Anyway, this group of graphic novelists has banded together to give talks, presentations, workshops, you name it. An awesome endeavor. (You can check out their reading list here.) One suggestion: Add a blog, folks!
Today we learned of the demise of the Nestle Children's Book Awards in the U.K. Sad news. But here's a university in the U.K. getting kids into the act of judging: The Bolton Children's Book Awards lets children 11-14 select their favorite book from a shortlist. And, guess whose book is on the shortlist? Nick Green! Author of The Cat Kin, and blogger at Green Knight's Chapel.
I'm sort of embarrassed to bring this up, but Esme Raji Codell (!) just awarded me a "Lion Award" from the Shameless Lions Writing Club . The award is in honor of "those people who have blogs we love, can't live without, where we think the writing is good and powerful." All I can say is--if you'll allow me this tween moment--OMG! And, thanks, Esme. I'm definitely blushing now. Esme is a wonderful writer, children's book activist, and first class blogger, so I'm beyond honored.
But, why am I embarrassed? Here's why: This award reminded me that the fabulous Shelf Elf awarded me this prize in December. During a blogging break. I had meant to pay it forward and then forgot! (BTW: If you haven't bookmarked or added Shelf Elf to your reader, please do so today. Shelf Elf is a great kidlit blog--Kerry writes beautiful reviews.)
The upside? I get to give 10 awards!
Okay, gotta run. The Cybils blog needs some feeding. Just one word of advice before I go: Get a flu shot. It's not too late!
By: Kelly Herold,
on 1/22/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, out and about in the kidlitosphere, Add a tag
a few good stories! For The Edge of the Forest. For March and April. I'm looking for book-centered stories in particular. So, if you have a great idea, send me an e-mail and we'll talk. (Upfront announcement: The Edge of the Forest is a venture of the heart.) I'm also interested in an author interview for March and a Kid Picks column for any month.
In other news:
Don't miss the January contest-edition of the Carnival of Children's Literature at Wizards Wireless.
Bruce Black interviews one of my favorite writers, T.K. Welsh, over at Wordswimmer.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 1/20/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
Welcome to the January 2008 issue of The Edge of the Forest. We are now entering our third year of publication. A true thrill. Thank you for reading!
We have many exciting features for you this month, as well as interviews, reviews, and much, much more. In short, here's what's in store:
- An interview with Holly Thompson.
- A look at The Class of 2K8, by P.J. Hoover.
- Booking your New Year's Resolutions with Little Willow.
- Kim Winters talks with writer, teacher, and mentor, Jane Resh Thomas, in our A Day in the Life column.
- Our Features Editor, Christine Marciniak, talks to gifted kids for this month's Kid Picks.
- Candice Ransom is this month's Blogging Writer.
- Reviews in all categories—from Picture book to Young Adult.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 1/17/2008
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: book review, Picture Books, The Edge of the Forest, Book Buds, Add a tag
Good Morning!
I have a review of this beauty--Charles Santore's The Silk Princess--up over at Book Buds. If you like picture books for school-aged children, this one is for you.
I'm busy editing the January The Edge of the Forest today. This work reminds me: If you have any great ideas for features for the February or March issues, please let me know!
By: Kelly Herold,
on 12/17/2007
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: awesome authors doing awesome things, Sara Zarr, The Edge of the Forest, Joshua Henkin, Add a tag
I'm working like a busy bee putting together the December Carnival of Children's Literature. It's going to be a great one--full of gifts, goodwill, and cheer. In the meantime, three things of note:
- If you're interested in writing a feature piece for The Edge of the Forest for January, February or March, please send me an e-mail as soon as possible. Even if you just have an idea, drop me a line and we'll talk.
- Did you love Story of a Girl, by Sara Zarr, as much as I did? Then check out Bob Andelman's interview with her over at Mr. Media.
- Do you belong to a book group? Are you looking for a great read for your January discussion? Then I highly recommend Matrimony, by Joshua Henkin. It's wonderful, beautifully written, and the author may have a bonus for you. What is it? Click here and read the comments.
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By: Sara Lewis Holmes,
on 12/6/2007
Blog: Read Write Believe (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: blogging writer, Rules for Blogging, interviews, The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
I know you're going to read the latest issue of The Edge of the Forest. I mean, Anne Levy interviews Jane Yolen and Kim Winters profiles Esther Hershenhorn. You don't want to miss that. Then there's Little Willow, talking about "Books That Opened Your Eyes" and MotherReader on "Bedtime with the Cybils" and lots and lots of great reviews and oh yes.... there's me, being interviewed by Kelly Herold as this month's "Blogging Writer." She made me look pretty good with her impressive questions, yes she did.
Go on now, go read everything---and I do mean everything---in this fabulous magazine. (One of my favorite parts is Kid Picks, where kids talk about what they're reading.) I don't expect to see you back here for several hours. Days, even.
But when you do saunter back from The Edge of the Forest, I have a small follow-up to my interview posted below. You see, Kelly tricked me by asking about my "Rules For Blogging," and after I made them up on the spot, I've got to stick by them. So here they are:
1. No meanness.
2. Be useful.
3. Show your passion.
4. Be not afraid.
P.S. Comments on Blogger were wonky yesterday. I wasn't getting email notification when some of you left comments, but I think I found them anyway and tried to reply. Also, if you chose the "send me follow-up comments by email" option for a particular post, I don't think that was working either. It still may not be. I think the "subscribe to comments" feed is working, though. I hope they get this straightened out soon, because I love the back-and-forth of talking with all of you! It's one of the reasons I became a "Blogging Writer" in the first place.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 12/5/2007
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Add a tag
Welcome to the November/December issue of The Edge of the Forest!
This month we are thrilled to welcome Christine Marciniak to The Edge of the Forest as our new Features Editor. Chris is a writer who blogs at The Simple and the Ordinary. She has also worked as an editor in the travel industry and brings much needed expertise and assistance to our children's literature monthly. Welcome, Chris!
We have many exciting features for you this month, as well as interviews, reviews, and much, much more. In short, here's what's in store:
- An interview with Jane Yolen by Anne Boles Levy.
- A look at new Bedtime Books, by Pam Coughlan.
- A discussion about Books That Opened Your Eyes, by Little Willow.
- Gift Book Recommendations from the Editorial Board.
- Kim Winters talks with writer Esther Hershenhorn in our A Day in the Life column.
- Little Willow talks to young actors for our What's in their Backpacks? column.
- Sara Lewis Holmes is this month's Blogging Writer.
- Sounds from the Forest talks with illustrator Kevin Hawkes
- Reviews in all categories—from Picture book to Young Adult.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 11/25/2007
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Bildungsroman, Little Willow, Add a tag
The multi-talented Little Willow is writing a feature article for the next Edge of the Forest about books that opened your eyes.
I answered as my child-reader self and my comments have to do with By the Shores of Silver Lake which I read on a train when I was about seven or eight years old.
Head on over to Bildungsroman and tell Little Willow your story. You'll see it in the Nov/Dec The Edge of the Forest.
By: Kelly Herold,
on 11/14/2007
Blog: Crossover (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: The Edge of the Forest, Features Editor, Christine Marciniak, Add a tag
I'm thrilled to announce that Christine Marciniak will be joining The Edge of the Forest as Features Editor beginning with the November/December issue.
Chris blogs at The Simple and the Ordinary and was an editor for a travel mag before leaving to stay home with children. When thinking of ways to make The Edge of the Forest better, my first thought was "editor. We need an editor." Chris is a member of my writing group and she's a great writer and a fabulous editor. So, please, welcome her aboard!
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Speaking of features and our new Features Editor, if you have any great ideas for The Edge of the Forest, drop me a line. Please keep in mind that The Edge of the Forest is still a venture of the heart and not yet a paying operation.
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GW Spymaster sounds exactly right for a child at the age where his interest/comprehension is more advanced than his reading ability. I will look for it for my nephews who are big history buffs.