By: Alice,
on 4/25/2016
Prince died Thursday, and I am sad. I've been asked to write about his death, but staring at the empty expanse beyond the flashing cursor, all I really know how to say is in the line above. Plenty of writers, more ably than I could, have written and spoken movingly about Prince since his death.
The post Prince and “the other Eighties” appeared first on OUPblog.
By: Jerry Beck,
on 4/21/2016
RIP, Prince.
The post ‘Storyville: Questlove vs. Prince’ appeared first on Cartoon Brew.
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By: Kimberly Pauley,
on 4/1/2012
By: Kirsty,
on 11/7/2011
From 1507 to 1512, Niccoló Machiavelli led the foreign policy of the Republic of Florence. In September of 1512, however, the republican government was overthrown and the powerful Medici family returned from years in exile to resume control of the city-state. Machiavelli spent the first week in November imploring the Medici to continue with a republican government. The message went unheeded; indeed, the day he completed his memorandum on the subject was the day the Medici dismissed Machiavelli from office.
Worse trouble followed. In February 1513, he was arrested, charged with conspiracy, and imprisoned, where he was tortured. Released in March, Machiavelli retired to his family estate outside the city. There he undertook the work that would bring him his greatest fame: writing The Prince, a how-to manual for political leadership. Dedicating the work to Lorenzo de Medici, possibly in the hope of winning back a position of power and influence, Machiavelli carefully laid out how a prudent prince could secure and maintain power by being both the powerful lion and the cunning fox. In analyzing governance as a matter of following necessity, Machiavelli wrote the first text in political science.
Often criticized for a seemingly amoral view, Machiavelli was actually more complex. While writing The Prince, he also wrote The Discourses on Livy, a thorough exploration of republican government. In addition, the end of The Prince calls for some powerful and charismatic leader to rid Italy of foreign armies. While Machiavelli was never returned to Florence’s government, he did work for two Medici who held high positions in the Roman Catholic Church, one of whom commissioned an official history of Florence. In it, Machiavelli criticized the original Medici regime, the republican government, and the restored Medici rule that followed, proving himself intellectually honest but less cunning than the fox to the end.
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By: admin,
on 7/6/2011
Gammons, Karen. (2011). Prince Andy and the Misfits: Shadow Man. Mustang, OK: Tate Publishing. ISBN 10-9781616636197. Litland.com recommends 14+, appropriate for younger advanced readers.
Publisher’s description: Andy thought he was just an average sixteen-year-old kid… But one day his world is completely turned upside down as he learns the unbelievable truth of his identity: he is the prince of a faraway kingdom called Filligrim in the Valley of the Misfits a magical place where pixies, elves, wizards, and dragons are just as likely to be inhabitants as humans. He was brought to this world following his birth the only way to keep him from being murdered by his evil malicious grandfather. Sounding more like a fairytale than reality, Andy at first thinks he must be dreaming. But then his aunt Gladdy reveals even more astonishing news: his mother, the Queen of the Misfits, is in trouble; she’s been captured by goblins, and it’s up to Andy to rescue her. Still in shock, he makes a decision that will forever alter life as he’s known it. He will return to Filligrim and, with the help of six heroic Misfits, will embark on a mission to save the kingdom from the clutches of evil. In Prince Andy and the Misfits: Shadow Man, Andy encounters one adventure after another as he works to uncover a traitor, rescue the queen from goblins, retrieve a stone of immense power, and solve the mystery surrounding the Shadow Man the sinister mastermind behind it all. And perhaps most importantly, he must ultimately discover if he has the heart to become a true prince.
Land of the free, home of the brave. Now nearly forgotten, these words from our national anthem once were as commonly used as any slang today. And thanks to our free market economy, we aren’t compelled to only read shallow tales mass-produced by a few publishing moguls. We now have many independent authors who are quite good. Which brings us to Prince Andy and the Misfits, another “good ol’ fashioned” story of chivalry, honor, and a dash of romance.
The story’s main character is a popular 16-year old, so this makes the book likeable and of interest to older readers, especially reluctant ones. However, the story line isn’t about high school and so its content is appropriate for all ages.
This doesn’t mean the action scenes are lame by any means. Early on, Elsfur beheads three knockers with his sword! However, in the style of the best of classic literature, our author goes beyond gore, distinguishing for readers a “just” battle. Authority and hierarchy are realistically portrayed, as is clear leadership. The characters experience life lessons that are easily applicable to our own real lives too. And after all, traditionally that was a purpose to good children’s literature :>)
As we fol
By: Pete Ellis,
on 4/16/2011
Ahhh! Ain't they lovely!
By: Anastasia Goodstein,
on 6/18/2010
Today we welcome back our Friday Forum series where Meredith (Gen Y) and I (Gen X) exchange letters and invite readers to join the dialogue in the comments. This week we take on Lady Gaga, our own pop icons and the new fame. Here's what we came up... Read the rest of this post
By: Shari Lyle-Soffe ,
on 9/2/2009
By: Karen Strong,
on 7/23/2009
I read this New York Times article, Target Can Make Sleepy Titles Into Best Sellers
Target is building a reputation as a “tastemaker” of books. With its Breakout program, the store highlights unknown writers and have helped many make it to the bestseller list. Plus, the Bookmarked Club Pick is selected by a panel of Target employees.
Each book selected has a special Target edition with an author letter specifically addressed to Target reader.
Here’s another interesting thing about the program.
“Virtually every book at Target is shelved face out. Books in the book club and Breakout program are set apart on so-called endcaps — narrower shelves that stand at the front or end of aisles — with specially designed signs.”
Of course, Target does not stock as many books as Barnes and Noble, but the great thing is that many authors are getting a “second life” for their novels.
It’s interesting because this week I watched an interview with Prince on The Tavis Smiley Show on PBS. He also has a somewhat similar type of program that exclusively markets his music to Target shoppers.
Target is definitely thinking outside of the box and getting “under the radar” books into the hands of readers.
By: ARIS,
on 6/23/2009
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By: Jennifer DeDonato,
on 4/12/2009
By: Steve Novak,
on 2/18/2009
Here are a few interior illustrations from chapters in the book "Forts" that I'm currently working on. Nothing amazing, just simple black and white drawings to go over the chapter titles. I'll put up a few more in the coming weeks.
Steve
By: Steve Novak,
on 12/8/2008
As I get closer and closer to finishing up the rough draft of the novel, I decided to put together a little an image/possible cover. I haven't decided it I'm going to do anything else to this piece yet, but I have some ideas.
Steve!
By: Steve Novak,
on 8/5/2008
Last night, after becoming bored with paying work (which is something my wife says REALLY needs to stop happening) I took a little break and sketched some of the characters from the children's novel I'm currently writing.
I would say that I'm about halfway though the story, which I think I may have to extend out to a second book in order to tell properly. Thus far, I like what I've written - which is weird because I'm usually my toughest critic.
This is either a good thing, or a very, very bad thing. Only time will tell I suppose.
Steve
By: Ginger Nielson,
on 5/30/2008
Frogs always have so much fun.... most of the time.
Just what was it about Albert that was so different from the others at the pond. He always seemed a bit distant, unusual and somewhat depressed. You might even say he was a bit aloof, above it all, a frog of a different nature. He just didn't join in the froggie fun. He was being such a "baby" sometimes!
©Ginger Nielson 2008
By: Rebecca,
on 3/21/2008
One of the best things about working at Oxford University Press is finding older books you didn’t know about. A couple of days ago I came across The Oxford Companion to Fairy Tales: The Western Fairy Tale Tradition from Medieval to Modern, edited by Jack Zipes. I decided to put the volume to the test. Would it have the modern musical interpretation of fairy tales? It did! Below is the entry about one of my favorite shows, Into the Woods.
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By: Writing for Children,
on 3/4/2008
Title: Griffin’s Castle
Written by: Jenny Nimmo
Hardback: 278 pages
Ages: 12 and up
Publisher: Orchard Books
ISBN: 978-0-439-02554-6
Publication: November 2007
Twelve-year old Dinah is desperate to find a place to call her own home. Even though her mother Rosalie loves her, taking care of a child is beyond Rosalie’s capabilities. Dinah, wise beyond her years, attempts to make their latest dwelling, a run down mansion, much more than a dump.
While longing to belong and to be taken care of, Dinah finds herself magically thrown into the midst of stone animals that come to life to protect her. Before it’s too late Dinah must realize the stone animals want to entrap her.
“Dinah knew then that she was their prisoner and would never reach the gate where the vulture waited. There was only one way out. ‘I shall fly,’ she announced. ‘You’ll see.’”
Award-winning author, Jenny Nimmo combines the here and now with a fantasy aspect that will surely draw the reader in from the onset. Visit Jenny Nimmo at www.jennynimmo.com to learn more about her and her acclaimed Charlie Bone Series.
******************************
Reviewed by Donna M. McDine, middle grade novel reviewer for the National Writing for Children Center
Donna M. McDine, Griffins Castle, Jenny Nimmon, Middle grade novel
By: Writing for Children,
on 3/1/2008
L.D. Harkrader’s popular middle grade novel, Airball: My Life in Briefs, will be released in paperback next week.
By: Writing for Children,
on 1/30/2008
Title: The Rock of Realm
Written by: Lea Schizas
Hardback: 242 pages
Ages: 12 and up
Publisher: Star Publish
ISBN: 1-932993-08-8 (Print Book)
ISBN: 1-932993-09-6 (E-Book)
Publication: March 31, 2005
Alexandra Stone, better known as Alex to her friends and family, is like any fourteen year-old with concerns from what to do on a Friday night to babysitting responsibilities. The life Alex knows so well changes the day she is knocked on the heady by a small pink rock and she recites a chant with her best friend, Sarah. The chant is from Mr. Ritchie’s (Alex’s English teacher) book, and before Alex realizes it, she and Sarah are transported to a mystical world with Alex’s dog, Butch and his squirrel buddy, Pops.
“Glitter I toss, safely I will cross, into your realm it will lead, the rock I possess, evil digress, the Queen I am to thee.”
Life in Greendale Park has vanished and the girls are shined upon by two moons in the starless night. With talking trees and animals, they find themselves thrust into a mystical adventure where Alex is considered the “enchanted one” of royal lineage and must concur “Dread.” The decisions made along the way will test the girls’ friendship. They must trust their instincts that ‘things are not always what they appear’ and believe in the endurance of family.
Lea Schizas intertwines two parallel worlds with believable ease. The powerfulness of “The Rock of Realm,” will leave you wanting more. You will root for Alex and Sarah and their counterparts from the onset. Cheers to Lea Schizas for a well crafted flight through the fantasy world. To learn more about Ms. Schizas visit her website.
*****************
Reviewed by Donna M. McDine for the National Writing for Children Center
By: Writing for Children,
on 1/24/2008
Bringing the Past to Life: Writing Middle Grade Historical Fiction, this week’s teleclass for members of the Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club will be presented tonight at 7:00 central time. The instructor for this class is Suzanne Lieurance, author of the upcoming middle grade historical novel, The Locket: Surviving the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire (to be released in May 2008). Lieurance is currently completing a second historical novel for Enslow Publishers’ fiction adventure series.
********
Other CWCC News
Members of the CWCC enjoyed a manuscript critique telesession last night, where everything from picture book manuscripts, writers’ resumes, and nonfiction articles were critiqued. Today, members will receive a link to the recording of this session so they can listen to the critiques of their work even if they were unable to attend last night’s LIVE session.
Join the Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club, here, and receive these benefits, plus many more, for only $27.00 per month.
Childrens Writers Coaching Club, historical fiction for kids, middle grade novels, writing for children, Writing For Kids
By: Writing for Children,
on 1/21/2008
We’re pleased to welcome children’s author Lila Guzman to the faculty of the Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club.
Lila Guzman writes children’s fiction and nonfiction, young adult novels, and adult-level short stories from her home north of Austin, Texas.
Guzman has won a number of awards, including Honorable Mention from the National League of American Pen Women, The National TCARABook Award, and the Arizona Authors Literary Award. She holds a Ph.D. in Spanish and a commission in the United States Navy.
Her published works include:
Green Slime and Jam (Eakin Press, 2001)
Lorenzo’s Secret Mission (Arte Público Press, 2001)
Lorenzo’s Revolutionary Quest (2003)
Lorenzo and the Turncoat (2006, Arizona Authors Literary Award)
Kichi in Jungle Jeopardy (Blooming Tree Press, 2006)
Famous Latinos Series (2nd-3rd grade biographies for Enslow Publishing, 2006): Cesar Chavez, Roberto Clemente, Ellen Ochoa, Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, George Lopez.
FORTHCOMING WORKS:
Lorenzo and the Pirate (Young Adult Novel)
George Lopez: King of Latino Comedy (Middle Grade Non-fiction)
Mohammed (Picture Book)
Moses (Picture Book)
Jesus (Picture Book)
By: Writing for Children,
on 1/20/2008
Every week, members of the Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club are given the opportunity to attend a LIVE 55-minute teleclass about some aspect of children’s writing.
These teleclasses are always presented by successful, published children’s book authors and/or illustrators. Each teleclass is recorded, and the day after the LIVE teleclass coaching club members are sent a link to the recorded session, so they can listen to it whenever it is convenient for THEM.
This week’s teleclass - Bringing the Past to Life: Writing Middle Grade Historical Fiction, will be presented on Thursday night at 7:00 central time. The instructor for this class is Suzanne Lieurance, author of the upcoming middle grade historical novel, The Locket: Surviving the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire (to be released in May 2008). Lieurance is currently completing a second historical novel for Enslow Publishers’ fiction adventure series.
Membership in the Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club is only $27.00 per month.
Click here to learn more about the club and find out how to become a member.
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By: Writing for Children,
on 12/3/2007
Title: Remembering Raquel
Written by: Vivian Vande Velde
Hardback: 137 pages
Ages: 12 & up
Publisher: Harcourt, Inc.
ISBN: 978—0-15-205976-7
Publication: November 2007
There are times when a person drifts through everyday life without being noticed all that much by those around them. Fifteen-year-old Raquel Falcone is that person in Remembering Raquel. Her life appears to be quite mundane and her story is told through the eyes of her best friend, family, classmates, and the woman who accidentally struck Raquel with her car.
Raquel’s death shakes the community to its core and proves how we all affect one another’s lives even if for only a brief moment. At first it appears that Raquel would have no lasting impact on her town. As one classmate put it, “”Oh crap. That makes me the class fat girl.” But through the eyes of the people Raquel came in contact with, we learn of Raquel’s gentle kindness, the traumatic impact her mother’s death from cancer had on Raquel, the way Raquel’s classmates perceived her, and the heartwarming frustration of her best friend. Even through cyber-space, it is shown how Raquel connected with others in her own way.
Vivian Vande Velde is an Edgar Award winning author and tackles the array of emotions all age levels go through when a death occurs.Remembering Raquel will tug at your heart. Visit Velde at: http://www.vivianvandevelde.com
*******************
Reviewed by Donna McDine for the National Writing for Children Center
By: Writing for Children,
on 11/13/2007
Title: Hiss Me Deadly
Written by: Bruce Hale
Hardback: 118 pages
Ages: 8 to 12
Publisher: Harcourt, Inc.
ISBN: 978-0-15-205482-3
Publication: October 2007
Crime has run rampant at Emerson Hicky Elementary. Chet Gecko and his sidekick Natalie have been put on the case to solve the mysterious disappearance of expensive items by Principal Zero.
“Uh…” I gaped. “You, uh, want to hire me?”
Mr. Zero leaned onto his forearms. “Gecko, despite your faults, you actually have solved a case or two.”
To add insult to injury, Mama Gecko’s pearl necklace is also missing. Much to the dismay of Chet he needs to solve the case quick, before Mama Gecko finds out his little sister borrowed the necklace without permission. Chet and Natalie are racing against time to discover the thief before the Fair at the end of the week with the display of the Flubberjee Egg. If not, it could mean the end of the detective duo.
Hiss Me Deadly is the thirteenth installment of the Tattered Casebook, with the return of the wacky and hilarious characters of Chet and Natalie. Bruce Hale has once again delivered a fast-paced mystery that is sure to delight the middle grade reader.
**************
Reviewed by Donna M. McDine, Middle Grade Novel Reviewer for the National Writing for Children Center
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Great caricature!
Thanks Pascal!